6 Delightful Towns to Visit in New England
When it comes to picture-perfect scenery, few regions of the United States can compete with New England. The area’s picturesque mosaic of rolling hills, dense forests, and rugged coastlines is all the prettier for the many charming towns and villages dotted across these stunningly beautiful landscapes.
Consisting of the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, New England’s colonial roots date back to the original Thirteen Colonies of the early 17th century, with much of these early influences still evident. From Kennebunkport in Maine to Newport in Rhode Island, with a few stops along the way, these six delightful towns to visit in New England are worth getting to know.
Woodstock, Vermont
Situated in the Green Mountains of Vermont (part of the Appalachian Mountains), Woodstock exudes that quintessential charm New England is so well known for. A visit to the Billings Farm & Museum, a living history museum that provides a fascinating look at rural Vermont life in the late 19th century, is a great place to begin exploring. Follow this up with a stop at the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the country’s only national park to tell the story of conservation history. In addition to exhibits relating to the ever-evolving nature of land stewardship in America, this top-rated attraction offers several delightful scenic trails to explore.
Woodstock's charming downtown area is also fun to wander. Highlights include the Norman Williams Public Library, built in 1883, and the delightful Village Green, a sliver of a park adjacent to the Ottauquechee River, and the charming Middle Covered Bridge. For those wanting to take a weekend break, these and other attractions can easily be reached on foot from the elegant Woodstock Inn & Resort.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Its location just 90 minutes north of Boston makes Kennebunkport a great day trip or weekend destination from “Beantown.” Most visitors will start their Kennebunkport adventure at Dock Square. In addition to ample public parking (as well as restrooms), this bustling area is filled with old commercial buildings that now house boutique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants that offer a taste of local flavors. Numerous charming old inns and B&Bs are located nearby, including the Kennebunkport Inn and the delightful Old Parsonage Guest House.
Just a few minutes north of the downtown area, the Seashore Trolley Museum, the world's oldest and largest electric railway museum, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's transportation history through exhibits and rides on vintage trolleys. Kennebunkport is also popular for its natural setting, with scenic beaches such as Goose Rocks Beach and Colony Beach being perennial family favorites. The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is also fun to visit and provides opportunities for birdwatching and hiking, while those interested in fishing or whale-watching can pick up a tour in town.
Newport, Rhode Island
No exploration of the most delightful towns in New England is complete without including Newport in the itinerary. This historic Rhode Island seaside town was founded in 1639 by religious refugees from other early US settlements and is these days famous for its spectacular Gilded Age mansions. Several of these historic homes can be toured, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, each displaying the extravagant lifestyles of America’s wealthiest families during the late 19th century. Afterward, take a stroll along Cliff Walk, a scenic 3.5-mile shore path shore that offers superb views of the Atlantic Ocean and these opulent mansions.
Sports fans will want to visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Housed in the Newport Casino, this historic social club-come-museum features exhibits on the history of tennis and also hosts the annual Hall of Fame Open tournament each July. The Newport Art Museum, located in the historic Griswold House, offers a distraction for art enthusiasts with its diverse collection of American art.
Mystic, Connecticut
In addition to its delightful name, the small community of Mystic is certainly worth including on any Connecticut travel itinerary. Settled by Europeans in the 1650s and named after the Native American term for “great tidal river” (missituk), Mystic had by the 1780s become a major shipbuilding port and was responsible for building well over 600 vessels by the start of the 20th century. More can be learned about the town’s maritime history at the Mystic Seaport Museum, which has its historic ships, maritime exhibits, and even a recreated 19th-century seafaring village complete with costumed interpreters and live demonstrations.
Another major attraction is the Mystic Aquarium, which features a variety of native and non-native marine species, including beluga whales, sea lions, and penguins. Olde Mistick Village, a charming shopping area designed to resemble a 1720s colonial village, is a fun stop for those who enjoy a little splurge now and then.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Pretty little Bar Harbor is not only one of the most delightful small towns in New England but also one of the most unique. Located on Mount Desert Island on Maine’s lovely coastline, Bar Harbor is the perfect spot to serve as a base for those wanting to explore Acadia National Park with its over 120 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. It’s especially delightful in the fall when the foliage puts on a spectacular display of color.
Bar Harbor’s downtown is also a delight to explore and is full of fun things to do, from shopping to dining on fresh local seafood. The town’s waterfront is especially pleasant and is a great place to pick up a boat tour to do some whale watching or even join a kayaking adventure. More can be learned about the town and the island at the Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum and the Abbe Museum, the latter known for its exhibits on the Native American cultures of Maine.
Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Our last stop, the Massachusetts town of Stockbridge, is quintessential Berkshires. As the hometown of famed artist Norman Rockwell, how could it not be? Stockbridge is so picture-perfect that much of it looks as if it’s straight out of a Rockwell painting, with that pervasive spirit of small-town America everywhere apparent. Highlights include visiting the Norman Rockwell Museum, home to the largest collection of his work, including many of his iconic Saturday Evening Post covers. Visitors can also explore Rockwell’s original studio and learn more about his life and work through fun interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Stockbridge Main Street, immortalized in Rockwell’s paintings, is lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy cafés, some of which you may even recognize. Highlights include the Red Lion Inn, a historic hotel dating back to 1773 that still offers charming accommodations and a taste of old-world hospitality for those wanting to spend additional time exploring Stockbridge. Another notable attraction is Naumkeag, a historic estate with lovely gardens and panoramic views of the Berkshires (guided tours are available).
Whatever time of year they’re visited, New England’s small towns offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the coastal charm of Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor to the historic allure of Newport and Woodstock, each town has its unique appeal. Whether it’s exploring historic sites, participating in outdoor activities, or simply soaking in that stunning scenery, these six delightful towns to visit in New England provide a quintessential East Coast experience.
