New England Road Trips- 10 Spectacular Routes + Where to Stay
New England road trips are experiences you’ll never forget. With picturesque towns, fresh seafood, and a whole different culture of its own, you’re sure to fall in love with New England.
Whether you are searching for the best fall road trips in New England, scenic drives on the coast, a romantic or weekend getaway, we have got you covered. All you have to do is grab your sunglasses and hit the road!
I teamed up with experienced travel bloggers to share this list of the best New England road trips. These getaways showcase the best places to visit in New England, plus recommendations on where to stay and eat.
When is the best time to visit New England on a road trip?
The iconic Portland Head Light. Portland, Maine
New England is probably one of the rare places that is gorgeous regardless of which season it is. Although summer and fall are ideal for making the most out of a New England road trip, the best time to visit this region depends on the kind of New England you want to experience.
In summer, New England offers super-fresh seafood in various coastal restaurants, while fall comes with glorious foliage and wineries to enjoy a delicious tasting. Summer and fall are also great for hiking, biking, and driving.
Spring in New England comes with fields full of blooming flowers, a sight you don’t want to miss.
If you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, New England winters are for you. From relaxing by the fireplace and gazing at the stars to skiing by the ocean, winters in New England are sure to be memorable. However, this season is not ideal for road trips, as it can be difficult for driving.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Vermont – Route 100
- New Hampshire – Kancamagus Highway
- New Hampshire – White Mountains
- Massachusetts – Boston to Berkshires
- Maine – Portland to Bar Harbor + Acadia National Park
- Rhode Island’s South Coast to Block Island
- Connecticut – Hartford to Norwalk
- Vermont – Stowe to Woodstock
- Massachusetts – Martha’s Vineyard to Cape Cod
- Maine – Ogunquit to Portland
Best New England Road Trips in the Fall
Vermont – Route 100 for stunning New England fall foliage
By Amy Hartle, New England With Love
For an incredible fall foliage road trip in New England, you can’t ignore Vermont’s Route 100. This is one of the best scenic drives in Vermont, and especially in the glorious autumn season. Vermont is known for boasting some of the best foliage in all of New England, and the whole of the USA.
Route 100 is a great road trip route because the road snakes from north to south through the center of the state. It passes over large swaths of the Green Mountains, meaning your drive brings you along high elevations where the color is just gorgeous.
Route 100 also passes through many small towns and villages that are worthy of stopping! The Vermont Country Store in Weston is located right along this road, a classic old-fashioned New England shop that sells amazing items and some yummy food, too.
Further north, along Route 100 in Waterbury, travelers MUST stop at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This cider mill fresh presses its own delicious cider, cooks up some of the best apple cider donuts in Vermont, and simply has an incredible fall atmosphere. You feel it the moment you walk in. It is one of my favorite places in all of Vermont.
You can continue to the end of Route 100 in Vermont, but I recommend ending your trip in the magical town that is Stowe. This is a scenic and charming spot right out of a magazine.
Hotel: Take in the Sound of Music lore with a stay at the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont.
New Hampshire – Kancamagus Highway – A perfect New England scenic drive
By Nikki Ortan from Attractions of America
Widely hailed as one of New England’s best fall foliage drives, the Kancamagus Highway stands out in a region regarded nationally for its scenic drives.
The Kancamagus Highway – found on Route 112 and known to frequenters as ‘The Kanc’ – boasts 34.5 miles of breathtaking views cutting east to west through the state of New Hampshire. Foliage lovers have long gone out of their way to plan a path on Route 112, and The Kanc is such a draw that entire vacations can be built around getting the most out of the highway.
To simply drive through the highway is free, but to park along the trail will require a day pass for $5 that will enable you to explore all the trail has to offer. Many of the path’s overlook areas feature bathrooms and small service areas, and you can pick up a permit and a map for the highway at the Saco Ranger Station or the White Mountains Visitor Center.
Starting in Conway and ending in Lincoln is the most common route. Heading from east to west, some sights to keep in mind are the lower falls scenic area, rocky gorge scenic area, Russel-Colbath historic site, Sabbaday Falls and Swift river, and the Lily pond, to name a few. There is also ample opportunity to camp, and taking advantage of any of the options is highly recommended. Check out spots such as the Hancock, Big Rock, and Blackberry Crossing Campgrounds, with rates as low as $20 per night.
The Omni Mount Washington Resort is one of the top-rated hotels in Bretton Woods, which is about 35 minutes from Lincoln.
New Hampshire – Another can’t-miss fall route in the White Mountains
View from Artists Bluff in New Hampshire – Image by Frank Parrott
By Frank Parrott of NothingButNewEngland
The White Mountains in Fall is a truly magical place with a vibrance of colors that highlight the beauty of the surrounding peaks. One of the best road trip through the Whites starts by staying in the heart of the mountains, the Omni Mount Washington. Located near the base of New Hampshire’s highest summit, the surrounding view is nothing short of spectacular.
A great tour of the area starts with heading to Artists Bluff. This scenic spot is located a short 25 mins away from the resort at the beginning of the beautiful Franconia Notch region. Park in the Cannon Mountain parking by Echo Lake Beach and cross the street to start the hike to Artists Bluff. It’s worth the effort to see a view that will be that memorable. No fear if you can not hike to the top, you can still see amazing views by just driving through Franconia Notch. This also leads to the next stop, a swirling glacier falls called the Basin.
Head back towards the Omni for a quick lunch but be sure to stop to admire the roadside falls on the way. The Silver Cascade and Flume Cascade are picturesque falls easily seen from your car.
After your lunch, keep heading on route 302 for 50 mins to the Pinkham Notch area. Park at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor area for another not-to-miss view. If you’re lucky, you may even be treated to a moose sighting.
Hotel: Check pricing and availability at the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods.
Artist’s Bluff in New Hampshire – Image by Frank Parrott
Massachusetts – Boston to Berkshires, for quaint New England towns
By Bharat and Supriya from fun travelog
Come fall season, and many residents of Massachusetts head to Berkshires in the western region of the state. Only a two and a half-hour drive from Boston, the area offers a different surrounding from the cityscape.
Surrounded by mountains (a part of the Appalachian Trail passes through this region), this beautiful hilly region is marked by small towns, farms, orchards, farm-to-restaurants, cafes, outdoor spaces, and lovely B&Bs. Start your trip in Boston and head first to Shelburne Falls, a quintessential New England small town that is two hours away. Walk over the Bridge of Flowers, grab a quick bite and stretch your feet. Next, visit the Mohawk Trail State Forest in nearby Charlemont. Another trail for viewing fall foliage is the 11-mile long Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Lanesborough.
If you love museums, head to either Mass MOCA in North Adams, the Norman Rockwell Museum, or Clark Art Institute for an afternoon. North Adams, Williamstown, Great Barrington, and Lenox are some of the top towns to visit in the Berkshires. Fall is also a good time to try warm apple cider donuts from Hilltop or Bartlett Orchards.
Hotel: The Apple Tree Inn, located on a 22-acre hilltop in Lenox, is a charming bed and breakfast. Hotel options include the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n’ Spruce Resort in South Lee and the Courtyard by Marriott Lenox Berkshires.
Best New England Scenic Drives on the Coast:
Maine – Portland to Bar Harbor Road Trip + Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park – Image by Stephanie Woodson
By Stephanie Woodson from Explore More Clean Less
Take the leisurely full-day route along the coast to connect these two delightful cities, driving about 160 coastline miles in about 3.5 hours. You’ll be able to gaze out on the water for the bulk of the drive, in addition to cruising through quiet, touristy towns.
Starting in Portland, take the twisty road northeast, with a first must-see along the Penobscot Narrows Bridge. Visitors can check out the bridge observatory 420 feet up in the air and look into the distance along the waterway. Further north, take the afternoon to tour around Boothbay Harbor on a wildlife excursion hunting for seals, whales, and puffins!
Pulling into Bar Harbor, don’t miss timing the tides so you can hike over a sand bar to isolated Bar Island before checking in to the classic Bar Harbor Grand Hotel.
Of course, the main attraction is Acadia National Park, with its breathtaking trails and views. Everyone can appreciate watching sunrise or sunset over Cadillac Mountain, and active visitors will enjoy renting a bike and exploring the car-free carriage trails throughout the park.
Hotel: Check prices and availability at the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel.
Rhode Island’s South Coast to Block Island, for New England seafood, surf and sunsets
Sunset on Block Island
By Jackie Gately at Enjoy Travel Life
“Little Rhody” has big things to offer in coastal road trips, with over 400 miles of beach-lined coast. A visit to the Newport Mansions and Cliff Walk are top regional attractions, but this off-beat coastal route from Wickford to Block Island is spectacular too.
Start in Wickford, a historic community in North Kingston known for its summer Art Festival. You’ll find galleries, unique shops, and outdoor cafes throughout this quaint New England village on the harbor.
Take a beach break at Narragansett Beach, where the surf’s up! Watch the surfers “hang ten,” or even take a surfing or paddleboard lesson.
Head south to Point Judith, famous for sourcing restaurateurs with delicious Point Judith Calamari. Enjoy Calamari or Portuguese Clams with Chorizo at George’s of Galilee, a clam shack overlooking Block Island Sound.
Board the high-speed Block Island Ferry at Galilee to catch a sunset over the Atlantic Ocean en route to Block Island. (You can leave your car behind and rent bikes on the island.)
Browse the galleries and retail shops scattered in New Shoreham for souvenirs.
Pack a picnic lunch from Finn’s Seafood Restaurant, then spend the afternoon exploring Mohegan Bluffs, Settlers Rock, and the nature trails throughout Block Island. Or, just relax on one of Block Island’s 17 miles of pristine beaches before taking the ferry back.
Hotel: Check-in to the Victorian National Hotel, the flagship of the island. It’s also the most convenient lodging to the ferry.
Airbnb: House located in New Shoreham and just a short walk to the Mohegan Bluffs and beaches, or a home situated on the Mohegan bluffs with 270 degree ocean views – see, hear and smell the ocean all day!
Romantic getaways in New England
Connecticut – Hartford to Norwalk, a romantic New England road trip
The Hartford, Connecticut skyline
Connecticut is full of happy surprises, and this short road trip is super accessible if you’re looking for a romantic road trip.
Start by taking a stroll with your loved one in Elizabeth Park in Hartford. If you want to grab a good meal, Salute, Max Downtown, and The Capital Grille are among the best restaurants in Hartford.
Next, head south to Hubbard Park in the city of Meriden. Located in the Hanging Hills of Connecticut, this park comprises woodlands, streams, dramatic cliff faces, and flower gardens.
Turn on the radio and drive for a while, as the next destination, the Silver Sands State Park is in the city of Milford. Apart from the beach and the dunes, this park has a 14-acre bird sanctuary.
You can also take a beach break at Calf Pasture Beach, which is just half an hour away from the Silver Sands State Park. Take pictures, stargaze, and plan future dates to make your day more romantic and memorable.
Also, Pinstripes Restaurant, about 10 minutes away from Calf Pasture Beach, serves some great Italian-American dishes!
Hotel: The stately Guesthouse at the Norwalk Inn is an excellent 4-star hotel in Norwalk and is only a 3-minute walk away from the Norwalk Historical Society Museum.
Airbnb: A mid century modern cottage in the middle of Fairfield County – wood deck overlooks the forest and country road.
Vermont – Stowe to Woodstock – Irresistable New England charm
The old, covered bridge in Woodstock, Vermont
Stowe and Woodstock have beautiful destinations that are perfect for a romantic getaway. Here are a few places you need to tick off on a road trip from Stowe to Woodstock.
The Moss Glen Falls on route 100 is a treat to the eyes. A short hike followed by a beautiful waterfall is a great way to start the day.
From Moss Glen Falls, continue on route 100 and turn left when you reach Interstate 89 to get to the next destination, the Brookfield Floating Bridge. It’s a small floating bridge where you can spend some quality time admiring the view with your partner. You can also go kayaking or swim there in the summar.
When you reach Woodstock, go to the Sugarbush Farm if you and your partner are fans of cheese and maple syrup. The cheese and maple syrup you get here are so delicious that you will probably take some home.
The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, just outside Woodstock, has beautiful sunflowers and a few hiking spots. You can also check out The Billings Farm and Museum nearby.
If you’re ready to go on a bit further, take route 4 and turn right to take route 7 to reach Baird Farm – Organic Vermont Maple Syrup at North Chittenden. It is an excellent maple farm that offers not only delicious maple syrups but also a stunning view.
Hotel: Woodstock Inn & Resort is a beautiful resort at Woodstock to stay for the night.
Airbnb: Dana Road House, a Vermont country home with gazebo and cedar hot tub, located 5 minutes from Woodstock Village green.
Weekend getaways in New England
Massachusetts – Martha’s Vineyard to Cape Cod
Sunset at Aquinas’s Gay Head Beach on Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is an island in Massachusetts featuring cute towns, lighthouses, beaches, and farmlands. It’s ideal to spend two days here, one in Martha’s Vineyard, and explore the Outer Cape the next day.
To reach Martha’s Vineyard, visitors usually take the ferry from from Woods Hole, in the town of Falmouth, on Cape Cod.
You can rent bikes and watch sunsets on the island. There are also many local restaurants that offer delicious food.
Stay at Martha’s Vineyard for the day, and tour the Falmouth area upon returning to the mainland. The Nobska Lighthouse, The Knob, and Spohr Gardens are beautiful places to visit in Falmouth. The lighthouse and The Knob offer stunning views of the beach and the sunset.
You can also drive to Cape Cod Winery in East Falmouth for some delicious wine tasting! Also, remember to check out C Salt Wine Bar & Grille, which is one of the best restaurants in Falmouth.
Hotel: Winnetu Oceanside Resort at South Beach and Lambert’s Cove Inn Farm and Restaurant in West Tisbury are exceptional hotels in Martha’s Vineyard.
Airbnb: Graham Cracker House, a waterfront cottage with private access to White’s Pond, located in Dennis.
Maine – Ogunquit to Portland – A relaxing getaway
Portland head light in Maine
If you are a fan of beaches, this road trip is for you. Start from Ogunquit, a quiet and relaxing beach town. The Marginal Way is where you can walk on a cliff that comes with beautiful coastal views and a lighthouse.
You can also visit the Ogunquit Playhouse theatre and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art in this beach town. The Front Porch Restaurant serves delicious food and has a festive piano bar upstairs.
On the way to the next destination, Kennebunk, you can stop by at a popular ice cream shop called Big Daddy’s, which is just 5 minutes drive from Kennebunk.
Kennebunk is home to the most fabulous Kennebunkport, where sites such as Gooch’s beach and Ocean Avenue top the list.
Once you are done swooning over how beautiful Kennebunk is, you can either continue on road 1 or Interstate 95 and then to the Interstate 295 to reach Portland City. If you have time, you can drive to Portland Lighthouse and take a stroll inside William’s Park.
Once you reach Portland, Fort Street Restaurant is a great place to have a delicious meal. You can also board a ferry to Peaks Island for some biking, kayaking, or swimming.
Hotel: The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection, and Portland Harbor Hotel are excellent options if you are planning to spend a night in Portland.
New England Road trip Essentials
Here’s a handy list of essential items for your road trip.
Don’t forget to pack these items:
- Fleece jacket – Handy for cool evenings by the ocean or at higher elevations.
- Cash – Some toll roads along the way may require cash.
- Nap Pillow – When it’s not your turn to drive. This neck pillow is machine washable and compresses into a small bag.
- Extra Camera Memory Cards -With so much gorgeous scenery in New England, you don’t want to miss a thing. I find the SanDisk cards are very reliable.
- A quick drying microfibre towel – So you’re always ready for impromptu visits to the beach and walks in the rain.
- Sunscreen and hand sanitizer – A must.
- Water Bottle – A reusable bottle to help stay hydrated while traveling.
- First Aid Kit – This kit has all the basics.
Stay safe and enjoy the beautiful scenery on your New England road trip!
Feel free to comment below with your recommendations.
More Information:
Tourism Information: Discover New England
Suggested Reading: Lonely Planet New England’s Best Road Trips, Fodor’s New England – Best Fall Foliage Drives and Scenic Road Trips
Pin it:
You may also like:
The Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine
15 Romantic Getaways in Upstate New York & Long Island
14 Fall Photography Tips for Awesome Autumn Images
