8 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In New England
Six states make up the Northeastern region of the U.S., affectionately named New England. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island are the charming, historical states near or along the Atlantic Ocean. Tourists flock to the larger towns every summer to enjoy the peaceful oceanside, and some come to the smaller towns to get away from the noise and hustle and bustle of a big town. For a slower change of pace, be sure to visit one of these off-the-beaten-path towns in New England.
Mystic, Connecticut
With a name like Mystic, the destination just sounds exciting. For the opportunity to find out just how enchanting this town can be, make sure to head over to Connecticut to check it out. For lovers of all things nautical, the Mystic Aquarium is the perfect place to start your visit. From sea lions, sharks, and seals to octopus and penguins, the Mystic Aquarium has a variety of animals for hours of entertainment. They also have exhibits that include a marine theater, interactive stations, and virtual reality. Another sea-themed attraction is the Mystic Seaport Museum. The museum encourages visitors to come and “find your sea story” through one of their many exhibits. Get Out on the Water, Sabino Music Cruises, Thursdays Under the Stars, and summer camps are just a few of the ways to participate at this interactive museum. For a final stop, those who enjoy being on the water should visit Sail Away Argia. The last commercial sailing ship in Mystic takes its passengers on either daytime or sunset cruises.
Woodstock, Vermont
The small town of Woodstock, Vermont, is full of outdoor attractions for history and nature buffs. One of Vermont’s most famous historical landmarks is its covered bridges. The Taftsville Covered Bridge is one of those landmarks. Constructed in 1836, from a unique design, it is one of the oldest remaining covered bridges not only in Vermont, but also in the U.S. Another monumental bridge in Woodstock is the Middle Covered Bridge. Built in 1969, it is the second public covered bridge built by the state of Vermont; the first covered bridge was erected in 1889. The charming bridge is located near the downtown area and is considered the most photographed in Woodstock. For fans of old architecture, this is a stop you won’t want to miss. For a final scenic stop in Woodstock, those who enjoy nature should visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Through the Mount Tom Forest, this scientific forest is a reminder of loss, recovery, and conservation. The landscape demonstrates the connection between people and places, and taking care of the land.
Stowe, Vermont
Another quaint Vermont town with beautiful outdoor attractions is Stowe. One of the most popular hikes is to Bingham Falls. Take the accessible trail to the waterfall and enjoy the beauty of your destination. While the upper gorge offers views of the winding river above, the path down to the falls provides views of the serene-looking pool at the base of the falls. Another scenic waterfall found in Stowe is Moss Glen Falls. Surrounded by meadows and forest, this 75-foot waterfall is one of the state’s largest. The view from the bottom is a small hike from the parking lot, but those wanting to see the view from the top can embark on the 2.9-mile hike up the gorge. Like other parts of Vermont, Stowe is also home to popular scenic bridges. Gold Brook Covered Bridge, sometimes also referred to as Emily’s Covered Bridge, is notorious for its spooky aura. Believed to be haunted by the ghost of Emily, who lost her life at the bridge, the attraction is a popular spot for fans of the supernatural. For those brave enough to try crossing the 50-foot-long bridge, this is one stop in Stowe you can’t miss.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Located in the state of Maine, Bar Harbor is a unique town because it is on an island. Mount Desert Island is the home of Bar Harbor and is accessible by road, ferry, or air. One of the most popular attractions, not just in Bar Harbor, but also in the entire state of Maine, is Acadia National Park. With multiple trails to choose from, you have your choice to see the mountains or the ocean, depending on which route you take. One of the top ten most visited national parks in the U.S., Acadia attracts roughly 4 million visitors a year! Originally located within the national park, and now in the heart of downtown, is the Abbe Museum. The main attraction of the museum features the history and culture of Wabanaki. The museum’s exhibits are currently being updated, as well as their special events and workshops. No matter when you visit, there is always something to learn. For another nature-based interactive museum, the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History provides exhibits, activities, and displays dedicated to the natural ecosphere of Maine. Perhaps one of the most interactive and enticing displays is the touch tank. A tide pool filled with sea stars, hermit crabs, and other marine creatures is open for visitors to touch the creatures.
Camden, Maine
Another Maine town with charm is Camden. For visitors wanting a scenic, yet exhilarating visit, a recommended stop would be at Camden Hills State Park. The hike up Mount Battie provides picturesque views of the town below, Penobscot Bay, and even Cadillac Mountain. The park is also home to Mt. Megunticook, the highest peak on the mainland. Megunticook is not just a mountain to climb, but also a lake. The lake is open for swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. For nature and historical enthusiasts, another enticing stop is the Curtis Island Lighthouse. The original lighthouse was built in 1835 and since then has been rebuilt, and an addition of a barn and boathouse was included.
Manchester, Vermont
The town of Manchester provides ample opportunities for diverse activities. History, nature, art, and outdoor activities are just a few highlights of this small Vermont town. For a first stop, those interested in history would enjoy Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home. Built in 1905 by Former President Abraham Lincoln’s son, this home has housed Lincoln descendants longer than any other family home. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of the home, farm, and gardens. From history to the arts, the Southern Vermont Arts Center is home to exhibits featuring local, national, and international artists, displaying relevant topics inspired by a diverse audience. The exhibits are open to the public for viewing, and there are even classes and workshops for adults. Another unique educational experience in Manchester is the American Museum of Fly Fishing. The museum is an 1800s farmhouse with a collection of lures and other angling accoutrements. In total, over 40,000 artifacts are housed in the museum! Another part of the museum is The Batten Kill, where smaller tributaries meet to create the Batten Kill River, which provides ample fishing opportunities. A haven for any fishing enthusiasts.
Kennebunkport, Maine
This small coastal town in Maine is popular for its sandy beaches, vibrant history, and small-town charm. One of its most famous beaches is Goose Rocks Beach. One of two public beaches, the three-mile stretch of beach along the sandy shore is protected by the Goose Rocks barrier reef, which makes for a gentler swim and reduction of waves. Whether you prefer swimming, tanning, kayaking, or paddleboarding, Goose Rocks Beach is a stop you won’t want to miss. Another smaller beach in Kennebunkport is Colony Beach. The other of the two public beaches, Colony Beach, is slightly rockier and located across from the Colony Hotel. The views from both beaches are unmatched, so be sure to enjoy a sunset or sunrise from the shores. For another nautical attraction, visitors will want to check out the Goat Island Lighthouse. This historical landmark was established in 1833 and renovated in 2011. Visitors are encouraged to visit by boat or view the lighthouse from the Cape Porpoise pier landing. The residence is private, but the lighthouse keepers have been providing tours to eager patrons if asked.
Stockbridge, Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, the town of Stockbridge is full of culture, scenery, and history. One of those scenic pulls is Naumkeag, an estate known for its elegant gardens and Berkshire cottage. The historic home and public garden once belonged to a U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain and his wife. The 44-room house is open for tours of the first and second floors. Garden tours, architecture tours, and backstairs tours are also available on the grounds. Another famous artistic attraction for fans of this sort is the Norman Rockwell Museum. All the artist’s 323 Saturday Evening Post covers are on display in the museum. The exhibits are currently changing but have ranged from Norman Rockwell Illustrating Humor, to cartoon drawings, and even an I Spy! Collection. This is one stop art fans won’t want to miss. Another museum that Stockbridge is home to is the Chesterwood Museum. The museum prides itself on its commitment to preserving not only the site of the museum but also the collections. Visit the studio, residence, and gardens of artist Daniel Chester French, who created sculptures such as the Minute Man and Abraham Lincoln.
Conclusion
The quaint region of New England is filled with beaches, history, and charm. That’s why millions of tourists flock to it every summer. Whether you want to spend time in just one spot or explore multiple towns and states, they all have something unique to offer visitors. One thing is for certain though, these eight off-the-beaten-path towns in New England are sure to provide ample opportunities for exploring, learning, and creating.
