7 Cutest Small Towns In New England To Visit In 2024

New England, named by the English seafarer Captain John Smith, is the collective term for six northeastern United States - Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. It’s one of the most photogenic regions in the US, particularly in fall when you’re likely to see your social media feed crowded with classic New England scenes of picturesque small towns nestled amid autumnal foliage and rolling hills. The area’s charming villages are worth a visit any time of year, equally welcoming in the winter wonderland of the holidays and the sun-drenched days of high summer. Quaint main streets, historic architecture, and gorgeous scenery — plan a trip to New England in 2024 and it’ll quickly become a family favorite.

Concord, Massachusetts

The hometown of author Louisa May Alcott and naturalist Henry David Thoreau, Concord is a pretty river town with a rich history that’s reflected in its tree-lined streets and pretty parks. Stroll scenic walking paths at the Minute Man National Historic Park and browse exhibits from the era of the American Revolution as well as artifacts from the Alcott family. Another historic landmark, Walden Pond, is a 136-hectare park which will be familiar to fans of Thoreau’s writings. There's a replica of the author’s single-room cabin on the grounds. Once you’re done exploring, cool off in the 102 ft deep pond which is open for swimming and boating. Back in town, Concord has lots to offer in its lively downtown where you’ll find arty boutiques, busy dining patios, and eye-catching architecture. Visit in June to experience the town’s largest festival, Market Days, a three-day music, entertainment, food, and shopping bonanza.

Woodstock, Vermont

Located in central Vermont, on the Ottauquechee River, Woodstock is a classic New England town, founded in 1761. It’s also home to Vermont’s first National Park, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Here you’ll find a sprawling mansion, landscaped gardens, and the stunning Mount Tom forest. Drive the backroads around Woodstock for more quaint, historic attractions including the Calvin Coolidge Memorial Homestead, the Old Constitution House, and the Justin Morrill Historic Homesite. Have a truly rural experience at The Billings Farm & Museum, an outdoor museum showcasing farm life over the past 200 years. Visit the restored 1890 Farmhouse, sample the working dairy farm’s famous raw-milk cheddar, or say hi to the local livestock with hands-on demonstrations and exhibits.

Bethel, Maine

Bethel is a sleepy Maine town near the Appalachian Mountains known as a premier destination for skiers and nature-lovers. The town is a great base for exploring the White Mountain National Forest which offers year-round adventure from hiking and kayaking to skiing and snowshoeing. If you’re driving into town via Route 5, don’t forget to stop at the Lovejoy Bridge. This classic covered bridge was built in 1868 and is the perfect backdrop for unforgettable vacation photos. In town, stop by the O'Neil Robinson House, built in 1821, and Dr. Moses Mason House, built in 1813, for a glimpse into Bethel life two centuries ago. If you’re thirsty after all that sightseeing, try a small batch craft beer at Steam Mill Brewing, a lively brewpub named after the steam mill located in Bethel in the mid-1900s.

Wickford Village, Rhode Island

It’s no wonder Wickford Village consistently appears in top ten lists of historic small towns. This picture-perfect seaside village is a charming mix of leafy streets, 17th century architecture, and coastal views. Explore downtown’s antique shops and bustling boutiques, sip a coffee at a waterfront patio, whatever you’re in the mood for, Wickford delivers. History fans can view stunning examples of classic Colonial architecture including the Old Narragansett Church, founded in 1706, and the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace & Museum, the 1750 home of the famous artist. You’ll also want to explore Smith’s Castle on the western shore of Narragansett Bay. Built in 1678, this is the oldest surviving plantation house in America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Stowe, Vermont

Known primarily as a ski resort, Stowe has more to offer visitors than great powder. Near town, you’ll find the charmingly-named Smugglers’ Notch State Park, a beautiful recreation area featuring a wetlands boardwalk, the challenging Hellbrook Trail, and access to Bingham Falls. In town, you’ll find the quaint inns, colonial architecture, and rustic bridges that New England is known for. Be warned, however, the Gold Brook Covered Bridge, built in 1844, is said to be haunted by a lovesick phantom known as Emily. If you’re staying in town, consider the Trapp Family Lodge. Run by the family who inspired the hit musical The Sound of Music, this charming resort offers cross-country skiing, carriage rides, wine tasting, and Austrian-inspired lodgings.

Meredith, New Hampshire

Meredith is a small beach town on the shores of Meredith Bay, which feeds into the largest lake in New England, Lake Winnipesaukee. Enjoy the water from one of the most scenic spots in town, Leavitt Beach. This sandy oasis has the best picnicking and swimming with crystal clear water and views of the wooded shoreline. Downtown, check out Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, a boutique winery that offers wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, and live entertainment. To pick up local souvenirs, head to the Mill Falls Marketplace, a stunning shopping village with flower gardens, a sculpture walk, waterfront boardwalk, and a 40 ft waterfall.

Mystic, Connecticut

Movie fans will recognize Mystic immediately. This coastal Connecticut town was the setting for the 1988 hit film, Mystic Pizza, starring Julia Roberts. The famous restaurant, which opened its doors in 1973 is still downtown and still open so don’t forget to grab a slice during your visit. Mystic’s fame began long before pizza however. The town was an important seaport in the 19th century and now has three separate historic districts, the Mystic River Historic District, the Mystic Bridge Historic District, and the Rossie Velvet Mill Historic District. It’s also home to one of America’s leading maritime museums — four vessels in the seaport are listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks. For the best dining and shopping in Mystic explore the Olde Mystic Village, an open-air shopping plaza bustling with restaurants, cafes, and boutique galleries.

New England, Old World Charm

From haunted bridges and famous pizza to colonial homesteads and outdoor adventures, New England’s charming small towns are full of unforgettable experiences. When the pilgrims settled here in 1620, they found a lush land of rugged mountain peaks, grassy foothills, serene lakes, and sandy coastlines. That timeless, natural beauty is still waiting to be discovered today, along with the pioneering spirit of the Pilgrims. Take a trip to New England’s breathtaking small towns this year to discover what you’re missing in the birthplace of America.