New England Map With Counties
Introduction
Located in the northeastern part of the United States, New England comprises six states – Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island – each with its own unique charm and attractions. From the rocky coastline to the rolling hills, New England offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
New England is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the country. From the Freedom Trail in Boston to the Acadia National Park in Maine, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Don’t miss out on the stunning fall foliage in Vermont, the historic Newport mansions in Rhode Island, or the charming coastal towns of Connecticut.
Hidden Gems
While the popular attractions are definitely worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in New England. Check out the abandoned Fort Gorges in Maine, the world’s largest collection of poison ivy at the Poison Ivy Mansion in Vermont, or the quirky roadside attractions like the Shoe Tree in New Hampshire.
Food Scene
New England is known for its seafood, but there is so much more to the food scene here. From clam chowder to lobster rolls, fried clams to fish and chips, there is no shortage of delicious seafood to try. But don’t forget to also sample the famous maple syrup in Vermont, the delicious apple cider donuts in Massachusetts, and the iconic pizza strips in Rhode Island.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to New England doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly options, like camping in the White Mountains, taking advantage of free admission days at museums, and exploring the many state parks. You can also save money by visiting in the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
Outdoor Adventures
With its stunning natural landscapes, New England is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, there are endless opportunities to get outside and explore. Don’t miss out on the stunning beaches of Cape Cod, the scenic drives through Vermont’s Green Mountains, or the world-class skiing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
Historical Landmarks
New England is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks and sites to explore. From the birthplace of the American Revolution in Boston to the Mark Twain House in Connecticut, there is no shortage of historical sites to discover. You can also visit the homes of famous authors like Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, respectively.
Family-Friendly Activities
New England is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that kids will love. Visit the Boston Children’s Museum, the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, or the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Vermont. You can also take the kids on a whale watching tour, go apple picking in the fall, or explore the many interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science in Boston.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in New England. Visit the abandoned ghost town of Dudleytown in Connecticut, take a dip in the world’s deepest natural swimming hole in Vermont, or explore the abandoned Nike missile site in Massachusetts.
Natural Wonders
New England is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. From the rugged coastline of Maine to the majestic peaks of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, there is no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore. Don’t miss out on the stunning waterfalls of Vermont, the sandy beaches of Cape Cod, or the tranquil lakes of New Hampshire.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, New England has plenty to offer. From the live music scene in Boston to the craft beer breweries in Vermont, there is no shortage of nightlife options. You can also catch a show at the historic Providence Performing Arts Center in Rhode Island or hit up the clubs in downtown Hartford, Connecticut.
Local Markets
New England is known for its local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visit the famous Quincy Market in Boston, the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market in Vermont, or the Coventry Regional Farmers’ Market in Connecticut. You can also explore the many antique shops and flea markets scattered throughout the region.
Beaches and Mountains
New England offers the best of both worlds – stunning beaches and majestic mountains. Visit the popular beaches of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket, or explore the rugged coastline of Maine. You can also hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts like Stowe and Killington in Vermont, or hike the many trails in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Cultural Immersion
New England has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Native American museums in Connecticut and Rhode Island, attend a powwow in Maine, or explore the many art galleries and museums in Massachusetts. You can also attend one of the many festivals and fairs throughout the region, like the Big E in Massachusetts or the Fryeburg Fair in Maine.
Art and Music Scene
New England has a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Shelburne Museum in Vermont, or the Wadsworth Atheneum in Connecticut. You can also catch a show at the iconic Tanglewood Music Center in Massachusetts or attend a music festival like the Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island.
Walking Tours
New England is a great destination for walking tours, with plenty of historic neighborhoods and scenic routes to explore. Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, the Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, or the Old Port in Portland, Maine. You can also take a guided tour of the historic homes in Concord, Massachusetts, or explore the charming streets of Woodstock, Vermont.
Architectural Marvels
New England is home to some of the most beautiful and historic architecture in the country. Visit the stunning mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, the historic lighthouses in Maine, or the iconic covered bridges in Vermont. You can also explore the many churches and cathedrals throughout the region, like the Old North Church in Boston or the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Hartford, Connecticut.
Historical Sites
New England is a treasure trove of historical sites, from the birthplace of the American Revolution in Boston to the iconic Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. Visit the home of famous author Louisa May Alcott in Concord, Massachusetts, or explore the historic whaling town of Mystic, Connecticut. You can also visit the many historic forts and battlefields throughout the region, like Fort Ticonderoga in New York or Fort William Henry in New Hampshire.
Biking Routes
New England is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes and trails to explore. Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts, the Island Line Trail in Vermont, or the East Coast Greenway in Connecticut. You can also explore the many mountain biking trails in the White Mountains of New Hampshire or the rugged terrain of Acadia National Park in Maine.
Wellness Retreats
New England is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of spas, yoga studios, and meditation centers to choose from. Visit the world-renowned Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Massachusetts, the Windham Hill Inn & Spa in Vermont, or the Copper Beech Institute in Connecticut. You can also attend a wellness retreat at one of the many retreat centers throughout the region, like the Omega Institute in New York or the Esalen Institute in California.
Adventure Sports
New England is a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Visit the famous Acadia National Park in Maine for hiking and rock climbing, the Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Massachusetts for zip lining and white water rafting, or the Mount Snow Resort in Vermont for skiing and snowboarding. You can also take a sea kayaking tour in Rhode Island or go bouldering in Connecticut.