Road Trip to New England’s Local Favorites

New England is filled with adventure, history and flavor. As you travel throughout these six northeastern states, you’ll find something unique and charming around every corner. As you plan your next road trip, add a few of these destinations to your itinerary. You’ll get an authentic New England experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

1. Explore Mount Mansfield State Forest

This beautiful destination is Vermont’s largest contiguous landholding at 44,444 acres. Whether you are traveling with a snowboard, hiking poles, rock climbing rope or with a hunting permit, you will find the adventure you are looking for among the prairies, hills and trees of Mt. Mansfield State Forest. If you’re looking for more small-town charm in Vermont, read 5 Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont and 5 Things To Do in Burlington, Vermont.

Book your stay at Best Western Plus Waterbury – Stowe.

2. Visit the seacoast in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Located right on the Piscataqua River, meaning “where people come together,” Portsmouth is filled with maritime history and culture that’s embraced by locals and visitors alike. From dining on delicious seafood to listening to jazz and blues, go explore Portsmouth, New Hampshire and if you’re looking for inspiration, check out our Best Things To Do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire guide.

Book your stay at Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel and Suites.

3. Drink a Cold Pint of Craft Beer in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston has always been a historic city and while you’re out exploring the Freedom Trail, why not stop for a cold pint of craft beer at a historic brewery? Beer connoisseurs would say the craft beer revolution began in Boston, Massachusetts several decades ago when Sam Koch brewed his first Sam Adams beer in his kitchen. Read more about his journey in our interview with Sam Adams’ Head Brewer on Beer, Boston, and Brewing and go on your own beer journey in Boston.

Book your stay at Best Western Adams Inn Quincy-Boston.

4. Hike the Trails of Acadia National Park or go on a foodie vacation in Maine

Maine’s flora is second-to-none. Acadia National Park is an East Coast destination that feels as solitary as any park out west. Enjoy day hikes in this stunning coastal paradise, located just an hour from charming, small-town destinations like Bangor.

Another stop in Maine is Portland. With award-winning restaurants and fresh, local seafood, as well as unique beverages to sip on, there’s plenty to eat, drink and explore in this coastal city. Plus, it’s a never-ending battle for the best lobster in New England, with Portland, Maine in the lead. With coastal chefs and restaurants from the entire region fighting for this number one spot, read about our recommendations for the best lobster roll in Your Guide to a Food and Drink Vacation in Portland, Maine.

Book your stay at Best Western Merry Manor Inn.

5. Sail the Rhode Island Coastline and eat at the Littlest Little Italy

There’s nothing more relaxing than exiting the harbor and opening your sails on the open water. Newport is a popular starting point, but many other cities dot the coast, like Providence, Rhode Island.

After a day of sailing, you’ll want to explore The Littlest Little Italy in historic Federal Hill, dining in classic Italian restaurants and taking your cannolis back to your room for dessert.

Book your stay at Best Western Airport Inn.

6. Travel the Chocolate Trail in Connecticut

Every trip is better with chocolate. From Norwalk to Stonington and Hartford to Cornwall, hop on the Chocolate Trailand sample some of the best sweets from across the state.

Book your stay at Best Western Plus New England Inn & Suites.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.