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From the rolling Berkshires to the rugged North Shore to the sandy beaches of Cape Cod and the urban exploration of historic Boston, there really is no wrong way to experience the Bay State. In winter, there are a number of ski resorts that can be accessed as a day trip from Boston, along with plenty of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Springtime is ideal for visiting the state’s internationally renowned museums and historic sights. Summer is all about finding some R&R on the waterfront, and what could be more “autumn in Massachusetts” than a day spent in Salem learning about its historic witch trials?
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It would take you a lifetime to explore all the history Massachusetts has to offer. Eastern Massachusetts is home to some of the most renowned colleges and universities in the world, so there’s never any shortage of lectures, events or theater to experience. And as the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston is home to dozens and dozens of historic meetinghouses, cemeteries and other landmarks, many of which have been neatly organized along the “Freedom Trail,” a self-guided walking tour for visitors of all ages. And if you’re lucky to get a bit farther afield, both Cape Cod in the east and the Berkshires in the west are filled with even more history and outdoor adventures.
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Options abound in the Bay State. There are elegant city hotels in Boston, such as the glamorous waterfront Boston Harbor Hotel (where you can park your boat and order dinner delivered to the pier) and the intimate Eliot Hotel nestled on tree-lined Commonwealth. “Down the Cape,” as locals say, it’s all about being near the water at the historic Chatham Bars Inn or Wequassett Resort and Golf Club (make sure to stop in for a nightcap at the Chatham Squire if you’re in the area). Or, escape to a classic beach enclave on the shores of Nantucket Sound at one of Red Jacket Resort’s signature resorts.
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New England’s fresh seafood and pasture-raised meats combine with cosmopolitan crosscurrents to make Boston one of the most sophisticated food scenes on the East Coast. Nobody does old-school steakhouses quite like Boston, with Grill 23 leading the pack — it’s been a Boston institution for over 30 years and was the first Boston restaurant to receive Wine Spectator’s coveted Grand Award. There are also great spots for French, Japanese, Afghan, Lithuanian, Irish, you name it — just make sure you don’t leave town before trying out handmade pastas and cannoli in the North End and corned beef and cabbage in Southie.
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It may not have the rugged terrain of the northern New England states, but Massachusetts definitely punches above its weight when it comes to outdoor adventure. Catch a whale-watching tour from Gloucester or visit an oyster farm in Duxbury — life on the ocean is part of Massachusetts’ DNA. Explore beyond the sea and visit Southwick’s Zoo, which spans over 200 acres and is home to 850 animals in their natural habitats. And of course, Boston is one of the most exciting cities on the entire East Coast, with boundless opportunities for festivals, theater, concerts and all sorts of urban exploration. The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the country’s finest art museums, and the Museum of Science is a great destination to bring the whole family.
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Oh, Massachusetts, where do we begin? There’s a reason so many amazing leaders, intellectuals and creative types call the Boston area home. Thanks to the high concentration of colleges and universities in eastern Massachusetts, there are always new, interesting and diverse people flowing into and out of the area. Boston’s restaurant scene has evolved into one of the most exciting places to get a meal on the East Coast, with everything from quintessential lobster rolls to authentic Japanese sushi on offer. The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Ballet are also at the top of their respective fields, with an ongoing roster of performances suitable for guests of all ages. For art buffs, there is no place better than the Museum of Fine Arts or the Isabella Stewart Gardiner Museum (home to one of the world’s most infamous art heists), and children will absolutely adore the interactive exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science. And those are just the modern aspects of Massachusetts. The Bay State’s historic side is also unbeatable. Salem is filled with all sorts of witchy history inspired by its Salem witch trials past. The Berkshires recall the Gilded Age, when America’s elite would retreat to their summer homes in Western Massachusetts. Spend a day in Lexington and Concord, where you’ll find the Louisa May Alcott house used in filming the 2019 adaptation of Little Women as well as the battlefield where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired. The shipping and whaling histories found in Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket offer a glimpse of a time when Boston ruled the entirety of North Atlantic trade. Massachusetts is unique among the New England states in that it is so interconnected with the rest of the world — and even first-time visitors to the state will fall in love with its historic and contemporary charms.
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Maine is full of surprises — who would think that one of our country’s most beloved food cities would be in the same state as some of the most untouched, unspoiled wilderness on the East coast? New England’s northernmost state is an adventurer’s paradise, with outdoor activities for adrenaline seekers twelve months a year — downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter; fishing, hiking and water sports in the summer; and incredible sightseeing all year round. From the south coast beaches to the Aroostook County wilderness, this is the choose-your-own-adventure of New England states. And P.S., once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s all roads back to Portland for some of the best food you’ll find anywhere.
There’s something special about Vermont, and it isn’t just the fresh Green Mountain air or the breeze off Lake Champlain. “Vermontaholics” have long cherished this state for its rolling farmland, thrilling ski resorts, craft beer scene, miles and miles of hiking and biking trails and so much more. And did we mention it’s the home of world-famous Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream? Come for the scenery (and the dairy), but stay for the friendly people. There is absolutely no pretentiousness to be found in Vermont — just folks who are proud of their New England history and love celebrating the great outdoors.
Up in the Granite State, it’s impossible not to enjoy the great outdoors. Many of New England’s best ski resorts are found here, and the adventures continue all year with hiking in the springtime, water-skiing and boating adventures on Lake Winnipesaukee in the summer and — of course — legendary fall foliage in the autumn. There are plenty of great road trips, charming small towns and well-worn tourist spots, but it’s easy to get off the beaten path as well. New Hampshire offers something for everyone, from family-friendly outings in Franconia Notch to solitary sojourns. Whatever you’re looking for from your next vacation, you’re sure to find it in New Hampshire, where the state’s patriotic motto pretty much sums it up: “Live Free or Die.”
Connecticut is a creature all its own — it’s definitely part of New England, but thanks to its proximity to New York City, the Constitution State also has a lot of urban influence you won’t find in the other New England states. The Route 95 corridor along Connecticut’s south coast is where you’ll find fantastic dining, theater, shopping and more. Head to the northern parts of the state and you’ll find farmlands and woods suited for long hikes and outdoor adventures. And thanks to its position between Boston and New York, Connecticut is highly accessible by road, train or air at any time of the year.
It might be our nation’s smallest state, but Rhode Island definitely packs a punch all year round. Winter is a surprisingly rewarding time to visit. You can catch a Providence Bruins hockey game or learn about aquatic life at the Biomes Marine Biology Center or even go for a (chilly) walk on the beach without any crowds in sight. That being said, the warmer months are when this small-but-mighty state really shines. Come summertime, it’s all roads lead to Newport for its many festivals and boating events and, of course, tours of its many famous mansions and the scenic Cliff Walk. If you love sunshine and being near the ocean, you will love it here in Rhode Island.
Southwick's Zoo
Experience a whole new adventure at Southwick’s Zoo with our Zoofari Drive Thru! Wednesdays and Mondays Entry Times: 4:30pm, 5:30pm, & 6:30pm Open Daily (including holidays) Mon: 10:00 am to 3:30 pm Tuesday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Wed: 10:00 am to 3:30 pm Thurs-Sun: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: Southwick’s Zoo 2 Southwick St Mendon, MA 1-800-258-9182
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Red Jacket Resorts, located in the heart of Cape Cod, offers something for everyone including private beaches, breathtaking views, refreshing indoor and outdoor pools, and exclusive golf offers at our Blue Rock Golf Course. Enjoy ocean or golf front accommodations or private cottages. Create endless family moments to be treasured forever. Contact Number (Reservations): 800-227-3263
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Time after time, New England proves to be an exciting and delightful destination for all. Visitors from around the world come to this special corner of the United States to take in its signature mix of history, culture and the great outdoors. Each of the region’s six states — Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — has its own unique character and adventures to explore, from the rolling Berkshires of Massachusetts to the rugged Maine coast. And while this summer might look a little different than most because of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, you can rest assured that the best of New England is still very much on offer. From food and drink to mountains and museums, there is so much to see and do in New England that you just might find yourself coming back again and again. Here, we’ve compiled a greatest-hits collection of what makes each part of this special region so memorable. Whether you’re looking for an educational afternoon trip or a multigenerational weekend getaway — or where to find the best Maine lobster rolls — let this be your go-to travel guide for all things New England.
It’s almost unbelievable how many experiences are packed into our (relatively) small corner of the country. From colonial history to world-class cities, rolling farm country to rugged coastline, there is something for travelers of all ages and interests to explore and enjoy. Each and every state boasts its own hit list of must-sees and must-dos — we’ve put together just a few of our can’t-miss favorites.
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New England is rich with endless opportunities. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there are ample places to explore in all six states. What are you waiting for? Your trip starts right here.
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Maine didn’t join the Union until 1820 — relatively late compared to the other New England states — and its pioneering, adventurous spirit is still prevalent today. The drive up to Portland from Boston is a good introduction to the state as you pass scenic beaches, lighthouses and coastal towns like Ogunquit and Kennebunkport. You’ll need at least a couple nights in Portland to work your way through its museums and excellent restaurants. Summer visitors tend to flock to “Downeast” — the coastal region north of Portland — where a road trip to Mount Desert Island and a sunrise hike in Acadia National Park are essential. Once you’ve whetted your Maine appetite, it’s time to explore further inland, where expansive wilderness awaits.
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Maine offers everything from posh seaside resorts to backcountry campgrounds, so it’s really a matter of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. For an oceanfront experience, consider the newly renovated Cliff House near Ogunquit, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of Atlantic waves crashing on the rocks beneath your room. The cabins at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport are posh and private. In Portland, the Press Hotel has turned a historic newspaper building into one of the most desirable urban boutique hotels in New England. Further inland, the Appalachian Trail traverses much of Maine before its terminus at Mount Katahdin, so there are plenty of cabins and campgrounds if you’re looking to get a little mud on your boots.
Maine’s unending forests and untamed coastline make this prime road trip territory — you could easily spend a week driving from spot to spot exploring its history and natural beauty. From the wild grandeur of the Kennebec Valley to the cobblestoned streets of Portland, there are many adventures to be had, but it’s hard to find anywhere more enchanting and quintessentially Maine than the coast. Most people are surprised to learn that Maine’s southern coast has some of the most expansive beaches in New England, making it a prime summertime destination but also a scenic place for long walks in the cooler months. Old Orchard Beach alone boasts seven miles of soft sand. If you drive north of Portland, the coast gets a bit rockier, but that’s all right — the scenery gets that much more dramatic and photogenic. If you really have time to explore, take a ferry to any of Maine’s numerous coastal islands such as Peaks Island or Vinalhaven. We suggest finding your way northward to Mount Desert Island, which offers a condensed version of the state all on one island. There you’ll find Acadia National Park, which provides numerous options for hiking and biking (as well as driving paths for those who prefer a little less adventure in their outdoors). The island’s largest town, Bar Harbor, is a charming seaside village complete with ice cream stands, restaurants and souvenir shops — if you don’t have time for a stack of blueberry pancakes in town, at least pick up a jar of wild Maine blueberry jam before heading home. That way, even if you only make it to Mount Desert Island on your Maine trip, you’ll still feel like you’ve experienced the best this state has to offer.
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Repeat after us: must try lobster and blueberries (maybe not together, though). Restaurants from around the world order lobsters from Maine — something about the especially cold Atlantic waters makes for excellent shellfish — and you’ll be hard-pressed to find any lobster short of excellent in the state. Steamed with a side of drawn butter, chopped up into a lobster roll or broiled with breadcrumbs, you can’t go wrong. And for dessert, wherever you go, order something with wild Maine blueberries, the state’s official fruit. These tart mini-blueberries are far more flavorful than anything you’ll find in a grocery store and are especially suited to big fluffy stacks of pancakes.
It’s all about the great outdoors in Maine, where the woods stretch out forever and there are more miles of rivers and streams than the Mississippi, Nile and Amazon rivers combined. The south coast beaches are a great place to play in the water, whether that’s taking a surfing lesson or renting a stand-up paddleboard. For boating and water-skiing, the inland lakes such as Sebago Lake can’t be beat. There are hiking and biking trails in every direction, with varying degrees of difficulty suited to all travelers. And no trip to Maine is complete without a sunrise hike up Mount Cadillac in Acadia National Park — it’s the highest point on the Atlantic seaboard north of Rio de Janeiro.
Options abound in the Bay State. There are elegant city hotels in Boston, such as the glamorous waterfront Boston Harbor Hotel (where you can park your boat and order dinner delivered to the pier) and the intimate Eliot Hotel nestled on tree-lined Commonwealth. “Down the Cape,” as locals say, it’s all about being near the water at the historic Chatham Bars Inn or Wequassett Resort and Golf Club (make sure to stop in for a nightcap at the Chatham Squire if you’re in the area). And if it’s a cozy Berkshires retreat you’re after, look no farther than the historic Red Lion Inn, located just minutes from antique shops and walking trails as well as Tanglewood, the iconic summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
There’s really no wrong way to approach Vermont, whether you’re exploring any of its adorable towns — Woodstock, Bennington, Manchester and Warren come to mind, but there are many others — or you’re finding some solitude along any of its many hiking trails. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore the state’s historic side as well. There are numerous meetinghouses, barns, old homes and covered bridges to explore, many dating back to the 18th century. This isn’t the kind of drive-by state you can expect to conquer in a single trip. Vermont is the kind of place that rewards exploration, and it will keep you coming back again and again to discover all it has to offer.
There are all sorts of places to stay in Vermont, from campgrounds to owner-operated bed-and-breakfasts to five-star luxury hotels suited to every type of traveler and budget. Some of the state’s most popular hotels include: the Pitcher Inn, located across from the famous Warren Store in Warren; the Equinox Resort and Kimpton Taconic in Manchester, both walking distance from the state’s most popular outlet shopping; the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, where the Von Trapp family of Sound of Music fame eventually settled after escaping World War II Europe; and the Basin Harbor Club, with lakefront accommodations where you can fall asleep to the sounds of Lake Champlain gently lapping the shore.
Montpelier is the only state capital without a McDonald’s — so when it comes to Vermont’s food scene, the name of the game is local, local, local. Burlington is home to a number of diverse and excellent restaurants, from farm-to-table concepts to international cuisine, as well as some of the most popular and award-winning craft beer breweries in the country. Maple syrup is huge in Vermont too — just don’t tell neighboring New Hampshire! The state has the greatest ratio of dairy cows to people in the country, so it should come as no surprise that this is New England’s capital of cheesemaking, and there is even a Vermont Cheese Trail you can road trip to visit many of the state’s small-batch cheesemakers.
There’s no shortage of action in Vermont, that’s for sure — whether you’re skiing at Sugarbush or Killington, hiking the Long Trail or boating on Lake Champlain. The abundance of natural scenery makes it a great place to be outdoors all year round. If road trips and leisurely drives are more your speed, consider driving the length of Route 100 — it passes through many of the state’s most charming towns, with plenty of historic churches, meetinghouses and general stores along the way. Come nightfall, there is a surprising amount of live music and theater to enjoy, whether you’re in Bennington, Middlebury or Burlington, thanks to the state’s numerous colleges and universities.
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It’s only a few hours from Boston and New York, but it feels worlds away — Vermont has long been the weekend excursion of choice even for native New Englanders. Driving through the Green Mountain State is like stepping back in time ― to a time when farmers raised dairy cows on the land, covered bridges were the norm and pioneers lived off the land in small, tight-knit communities. The Vermont of today doesn’t look too different. There are, of course, better hotels and all the modern comforts of home, but it still has that rustic charm that has always attracted people to its rolling hills and fresh waters. A trip to Vermont is a feast for the senses. Crisp winter air carries the aroma of spruce tips and birch bark. Springtime brings maple syrup season, and with summer comes an explosion of green throughout the state. Come fall, it’s all about harvest celebrations and indulging in the best local craft beers (try to get a case of Heady Topper from Alchemist Beer in Stowe) and the best local cheese (Vermont cheddar is a classic). The drama of New England’s seasons is on full display in Vermont, and part of this state’s appeal is that you can visit at any time of year. Summer is a good introduction to everything Vermont has to discover, but then you’ll have to come back in the autumn to witness an explosion of fall foliage. Dust off your ski parka and snow boots for a winter trip, and come back again in the spring to visit maple syrup farms in full swing. As you’ll come to find out, there really is no wrong time — or way — to visit Vermont.
New Hampshire is a state of firsts — the first to declare independence, the first to build a free public library, the first to hold a women’s strike and the first place to plant potatoes in the United States. No state in New England offers a better combination of rugged outdoors with informative history. So while many come to New Hampshire to visit the White Mountains ski resorts in the winter or to road trip during peak foliage season in the fall, we suggest you look just a bit deeper at all the history there is to be discovered in the Granite State.
New Hampshire was the summer retreat of choice for affluent East Coasters in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and a number of iconic “grand hotels” remain today, thanks to new owners and recent renovations (don’t mind the ghosts, though). The Omni Mount Washington Resort has some of the most iconic views of neighboring Mount Washington and also boasts one of the most popular spas in all of New England if you’re looking for a little pampering after a long day of hiking in the woods. Closer to the coast, the Wentworth by the Sea delivers both ocean views and close proximity to the region’s most popular beaches.
Expect lots of hidden gems and small-town favorites in New Hampshire, whether that’s the saltwater taffy found at Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory on the boardwalk at Hampton Beach or the world-famous flapjacks at Polly’s Pancake Parlor near Franconia up north. Some of the best apples around can be found in New Hampshire as well — keep an eye out for pick-your-own apple orchards if you’re visiting in the fall, and make sure to indulge in some warm apple cider doughnuts when you’re here. There’s also an unofficial dispute with Vermont about who makes the best maple syrup. Our advice? Try both and decide for yourself!
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, it doesn’t get much better than New Hampshire: The terrain is more rugged, the white water runs faster and the mountains are bigger. A day hike up the imposing Mount Washington is an essential experience for any adrenaline junkie, but don’t worry — there are plenty of gentler hiking paths throughout the state to appeal to hikers of all abilities (Mount Washington even has a drivable “auto road”). The Lakes Region is another can’t-miss part of the state, where boating, fishing and water sports of all kinds reign supreme. And of course, no trip to the Granite State is complete without a road trip along its 18 miles of sandy Atlantic beaches.
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There’s a reason the first summer resort town in the United States was founded at Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, in the 18th century — Americans have long recognized this part of New England for its fresh air, pristine lakes and adventurous terrain. That tradition continues to this day, with visitors coming from around the world to take advantage of New Hampshire’s year-round offerings. There’s something suited for all sorts of travelers, whether you’re a road tripper looking to see some stunning fall foliage, a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a multigenerational group looking for some family-friendly adventure. But despite its immensely popular tourist destinations like Hampton Beach on the coast or Franconia Notch in the White Mountains, there is still plenty of wilderness in New Hampshire for those who prefer something off the beaten path. Speaking of off the beaten path, try your luck with one of the popular workshops at the Team O’Neil Rally School, one of the foremost race car driving schools in the country and the only one that features New Hampshire’s White Mountains as its backdrop. After seeing if you have what it takes behind the wheel, you can take the whole family over to the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon to catch a thrilling car race — it’s the largest sports complex in New England, and it hosts the northeast’s only NASCAR National Series events. You may also be surprised to discover that New Hampshire is a fantastic place to learn to surf, thanks to its gentle waves and sandy beaches. There are a number of surf shops along the Granite State’s coast, with more and more popping up each summer — a perfect example of how this wonderful New England state continues to reinvent itself as an outdoor destination again and again.
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Part New York, part New England, Connecticut stands in a league of its own. This state has given us a number of inventions that feel central to American identity, so many in fact that it’s hard to know where to start—the lollipop, the hamburger, the first speed limits for cars, the first frisbee, PEZ candy, the first telephone book, the nuclear-powered submarine and more all originated in Connecticut. This state is proud of its all-American tradition, being home to the country’s oldest continuously published newspaper (the Hartford Courant, founded in 1764), the country’s oldest public library (the Scoville Memorial Library in Salisbury), and the country’s third-oldest institution of higher learning (Yale University). But its rich history is just the tip of the iceberg—there is a wealth of experiences both old and new to discover in Connecticut.
From the beautiful estates of Greenwich and the seaside cottages of Mystic to the mid-century homes of New Canaan and the rolling farmlands of Litchfield County, there are many places to situate yourself for a Connecticut adventure. If you’re looking to splurge, the Mayflower Inn offers world-class dining and an award-winning spa for some much-needed pampering. A weekend spent at one of the charming B&Bs in Mystic is a foolproof choice too. But wherever you stay, prepare to be seriously charmed — whether it’s dramatic water views or a secluded forest locale, this state delivers some fantastic New England scenery. The best part? Nothing is ever too far away from anything else in Connecticut.
Don’t tell the rest of New England, but Connecticut offers its own unique take on the lobster roll — whereas other states prefer a chilled lobster salad served on a toasted hot dog bun, Connecticuters prefer to serve their lobster rolls warm, with a generous douse of melted butter. Try it out for yourself to see which style you prefer! And thanks to a rich Italian history, Connecticut is also home to some pretty phenomenal pizza — the most famous of which is the “New Haven clam pie,” a mix of Italian pizza with New England seafood that you won’t soon forget. And don’t leave without trying the state’s quirky yet beloved steamed cheeseburger!
Fun for the whole family abounds in Connecticut! Candy lovers of all ages can indulge their sweet tooth with a PEZ factory tour in New Haven County or at any of the dairy farms throughout the state where homemade ice cream is the norm. The Beardsley Zoo is a must-do for all visitors, with multiple exotic and endangered animals on display, illustrating important lessons in conservation. And even if you don’t consider yourself a card shark, consider a visit to the state’s two largest casinos — Foxwoods in Mashantucket and Mohegan Sun in Uncasville — where you’ll also find activities like zip lines and concert events. From Colonial history to contemporary arts, there is always something to see, hear and do in Connecticut.
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It may not have the mountains of New Hampshire or the moose you would see in Maine, but Connecticut has more than enough to offer on its own. Miles and miles of shoreline on the Long Island Sound offer gorgeous aquatic excursions, lighthouses, beaches and miles of waterfront walking trails. The state’s proximity to New York City gives it an urban influence and cosmopolitan flair unique from the other New England states, so there are unending opportunities for world-class shopping, dining, theater and museums. And if a dairy farm tour and a secluded forest walk are more your speed, Connecticut boasts plenty of that as well. The best part? Thanks to the major interstate highways and railways that cross the state, nothing is ever too far from anything else in the Constitution State. From casinos to history to hikes and museums, we think the sheer variety of activities available makes Connecticut especially suited for multigenerational family groups. Kids and grown-ups alike will love a trip to the Beardsley Zoo, the Mystic Aquarium, Dinosaur State Park (which displays one of North America’s largest collections of fossilized dinosaur tracks) or the New England Air Museum (the largest aviation museum in the northeast). Come at any time of year to take advantage of Connecticut’s charms and attractions, and you’ll be amply rewarded with experiences to try, foods to sample and things to learn. Each part of the state is easily accessed by road, rail or air, so a Connecticut escape — whatever you’re after — is always within reach.
It’s hard to believe there’s so much history in this tiny state — from First Nations groups to Colonial settlers to the Gilded Age elite and today’s summer sun-seekers. Today, that history lingers around every corner. There are so many adventures to discover in Rhode Island, whether it’s rubbing elbows with Newport society or going for a solitary beach walk in the quaint town of Westerly. You can even set sail on the Block Island Ferry and head 13 miles out to sea to explore the beauty of Rhode Island’s beloved Block Island. While most of the New England states boast a close relationship with the ocean, Rhode Island might just take first place for waterfront adventures — about 14% of the state is made up of water, with 35 islands and over 380 miles of shoreline within its borders. Don’t be afraid to bring the kids along, either — this is a family-friendly state if there ever was one.
Thanks to the state’s location and size, you’re never too far from waterfront views in Rhode Island. The iconic Ocean House in Westerly will appeal to families and history buffs alike and commands sweeping views of the water from its storied location on Watch Hill. Staying in Newport is another popular option, with most hotels within walking distance to marinas, restaurants, shopping and other attractions. If you’re looking for a little more peace and quiet, the state is packed with B&Bs, vacation rentals and all sorts of private accommodations where the only sound you’ll hear at night is the ocean waters crashing on the shore.
We hope you came hungry — this tiny state is bursting at the seams with fantastic foods to try. The jumbo-sized doughnut cake from Allie’s Donuts is an indulgent — and Instagrammable — treat, as are “Johnny Cakes,” cornmeal pancakes you’ll find at most diners around the state. Seafood lovers will be over the moon in Rhode Island. From fried calamari to stuffed clams to clam cakes and clam chowder, this is one state that has perfected the art of seafood. And if you’re coming in the warmer months, make sure to grab a tall, frosty Del’s lemonade — while this refreshing drink has expanded across the country, it all started here at a small lemonade stand in Cranston, Rhode Island.
Obviously Rhode Island has a reputation for boating, for the Newport mansions and for seaside hikes — but would you be surprised to learn that it’s also New England’s surfing capital? From Narragansett Beach south to the Point Judith lighthouse, you’ll find mild waters, gentle waves and sandy beaches suited for experienced surfers and first-timers alike. Sign up for a lesson and you’ll be hanging ten in no time. Or hop a ferry over to Block Island, often called one of the best islands in the country for a family vacation. There, you’ll find historic Victorian architecture, uncrowded nature walks and oceanfront seclusion totally unique to anything else you’ll find in New England.
ACTIVITY
Explore fun right here in RHODE ISLAND
There are many places to enjoy the warmer months in New England, but none feel quite the same as Rhode Island, which has long served as our country’s summer playground. There are the well-worn spots like Newport, Providence and Narragansett, but more secluded locales like Westerly and Block Island also invite exploration. Nothing beats that oceanfront fresh air — it feels like every part of this state is a fantastic place to go for a long walk on the beach, explore the many bike paths or simply lay a blanket on the grass (or sand) and take a nap. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for a Del’s Lemonade and a big basket of fried clams. But natural beauty is only one aspect of Rhode Island — this state offers numerous public art installations, music and cultural festivals, elegant mansions and historic architecture. Providence is often hailed as one of our most walkable cities and makes for an exciting day trip at any time of year. Very few parts of New England offer so much history and so many activities in such a small, accessible area. There are so many paths to choose from and things to experience in Rhode Island that it’s impossible to get to them all in a single visit — you might just find yourself coming back again and again to experience all this state has to offer.
ISLAND