Image of Nantucket Hotel, one of the most popular places to stay on the island
With the weather getting warmer and the days getting longer, summer break is on everyone’s mind. Although a cross-country or international trip sounds fantastic, sometimes the best destinations are just around the corner. Check out 5 beautiful spots you should visit in New England this summer.
- Newport, Rhode Island: This gorgeous seaside town is known for their historic mansions and wealthy community. Instead of driving your car through the regular traffic, park it somewhere safe and walk around! If you haven’t already visited the inside of a Newport Mansion, I would highly recommend doing so. The architecture and old money feel is something you aren’t able to truly encounter in other places. My family’s personal favorites in the town are the Cliff Walk (right outside the mansions) and the Tennis Hall of Fame (right in their downtown). Newport also has a trolley that takes you from the mansions to downtown in 7 minutes, while the walk is around 20 mins.
- Nantucket, Massachusetts: This delightful island very much lives up to the praise it receives. The only downside to a visit is how expensive it is to stay the night. But that should not stop you from seeing this island’s amazing vibe. If the cost is a worry for you, plan to stay the night in Hyannis, Massachusetts, and take the ferry to Nantucket ($45). Although spending only a day is not nearly enough to see everything, you are still able to experience the perfect day and visit as many cafes, restaurants, museums, shops, etc as you can. Try to check out the Whaling Museum and Brant Point Lighthouse, some hidden gems around the island. If you’re ever bored (which you won’t be), walk for 5 minutes and count all the jeeps you see driving or parked; I bet you get over 100!
- Portland, Maine: Maine’s beautiful capital is a perfect mix of historical landmarks and cute shops/cafes. A personal favorite is the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, while a very popular lighthouse is the Portland Head Light (in Cape Elizabeth). Lighthouses are such a beautiful sight wherever you go, but the Portland Head Light is on another level because of the surrounding views and trails. Another couple of favorites were Commercial Street for shopping and the Portland Observatory.
- Storyland in Glen, New Hampshire: This wonderful amusement park has been in service since the 1950s. This park is catered towards younger kids, although people of all ages can have fun! Some of my favorite rides from the last time I visited are Bamboo Chutes and Polar Kids Coaster. The rides are categorized under soft, moderate, and intense; with the majority of rides being “soft”. There are a couple of places to eat and refuel, and this park is the perfect place to spend the day with kids or younger siblings.
- Montpelier Vermont: One of Vermont’s most charming cities, Montpelier is the only capital in the country without a McDonald’s. Visit their many sugar farms for a unique experience only found in Vermont, as well as eating at local restaurants and spending time in and around the state house. Be sure to pick up their famous maple syrup or artisan cheese at any shop along your trip!
Hopefully, one or more of these suggestions shed some light on some fun day trips for you and your family this spring, summer, or fall!
