New England Tours introduces you to New England’s unique blend of historic charm and modern dynamism. From the scenic tranquility of its historic villages to the everyday buzz of bustling cities, the variety found in New England is truly remarkable. Whether you’re planning a leisurely getaway or an action-packed adventure, New England has something for everyone. Let’s embark on a journey to explore this fascinating region with New England Tours, your trusted guide to the most memorable experiences.

Ideas for DIY New England Tours

• Note: if you’re looking for a guided New England tour instead, click here.

Idea for Day 1: Start in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is the perfect starting point for diving into New England. Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and modern innovation.

Things to Do in Boston

• Freedom Trail: Walk this 2.5-mile path that takes you through 16 historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
• Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Enjoy shopping, dining, and street performances in this historic market.
• Boston Common and Public Garden: Relax in America’s oldest park and its beautiful adjacent garden.

Idea for Day 2: Salem or Cape Cod, Massachusetts

A short drive from Boston brings you to Salem, a town famous for its 1692 witch trials. Salem’s historical significance adds to the diversity of New England.

Things to Do in Salem

• Salem Witch Museum: Learn about the infamous witch trials through compelling exhibits.
• Peabody Essex Museum: Explore a diverse collection of art and cultural artifacts.
• Salem Maritime National Historic Site: Discover Salem’s rich maritime history.

Option B: Skip Salem and go to Cape Cod for the day instead to explore the National Seashore.

Day 3: Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth offers a delightful mix of colonial architecture, waterfront views, and a vibrant cultural scene, highlighting the diversity of New England.

Things to Do in Portsmouth

• Strawbery Banke Museum: An outdoor history museum showcasing restored houses from four centuries.
• Market Square: Experience the charm of local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Prescott Park: Enjoy beautiful gardens and waterfront views.

Day 4: Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport epitomizes the quaint village life and is a picturesque example of the diversity of New England.

Things to Do in Kennebunkport

• Walker’s Point: View the summer home of the Bush family.
• Dock Square: Explore charming shops and eateries.
• Gooch’s Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach with stunning views.

Day 5: Portland, Maine

Portland blends historic charm with modern vibrancy, representing the diversity of New England’s cities.

Things to Do in Portland

• Old Port: Enjoy cobblestone streets, unique boutiques, and lively nightlife.
• Portland Head Light: Visit one of New England’s most iconic lighthouses.
• Casco Bay: Take a ferry ride to explore the scenic islands.
• Maine Foodie Tours (recently renamed Maine DayVentures) is a great way to explore Portland’s amazing food scene!
• Our restaurant recommendations include 2 of our favorites: Central Provisions (brunch and dinner), and Hot Suppa (breakfast and lunch).

Day 6: Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a lively city on the shores of Lake Champlain, showcasing another facet of the diversity of New England.

Things to Do in Burlington

• Church Street Marketplace: A pedestrian-only area with shops, cafes, and street performers.
• ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: A science center and aquarium focusing on the lake’s ecology.
• Waterfront Park: Enjoy beautiful views and outdoor activities along the lake.

Day 7: Hanover, New Hampshire

Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover blends academic excellence with small-town charm, adding to the diversity of New England.

Things to Do in Hanover

• Dartmouth College: Stroll through the picturesque campus.
• Hood Museum of Art: Explore a diverse collection of art.
• Connecticut River: Enjoy kayaking or a riverside walk.

Why Choose New England Tours?

With decades of experience, New England Tours offers unparalleled expertise in planning your trip to New England. Our services include:

• Curated Itineraries: Tailored to highlight the best of New England, from historical sites to natural wonders.
• Comfortable Travel: Deluxe motorcoaches with experienced, safe drivers ensure a pleasant journey.
• Expert Guides: Our guides provide insightful information about each destination.

Explore Villages in New England

New England’s villages, such as Stowe in Vermont and Woodstock in New Hampshire, offer a peaceful retreat. Charming Main Streets, historic homes, and friendly communities characterize these villages.

Recommended Villages to Explore

• Stowe, Vermont: Known for skiing, hiking trails, and the Trapp Family Lodge.
• Woodstock, New Hampshire: Offers beautiful covered bridges and access to the White Mountains.

New England Historical Sites

History lovers will find many historical sites across New England, from Revolutionary War landmarks to colonial settlements. The diversity of New England history is reflected in its well-preserved sites.

Must-Visit Historical Sites

• Plimoth Patuxet Museums: A living history museum depicting the original Plymouth Colony.
• Minute Man National Historical Park: Commemorates the opening battle of the Revolutionary War.
• Old Sturbridge Village: An outdoor history museum showcasing life in the 1830s.

New England Bustling Cities

Beyond its serene villages, New England is home to vibrant cities offering a dynamic mix of culture, entertainment, and culinary delights.

Noteworthy Cities

• Boston, Massachusetts: Known for its rich history, academic institutions, and cultural attractions.
• Providence, Rhode Island: Famous for its arts scene, Water Fire events, and diverse dining options.
• Portland, Maine: One of the best food scenes on the East Coast. Almost anywhere you choose to eat will be excellent as this growing city has very high standards!

New England Travel Tips

To make the most of your trip to New England, consider these travel tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Coastal areas from southern Connecticut, Rhode Island, Cape Cod, and Maine are very busy in the summer when families with children flock to seaside towns and beaches. Northern New England gets busier in the fall and winter. It’s worth going any time of year in our view, but the region is spended in September and October. We have the know-how to outsmart the crowds if you’re interested in guided New England tours.
• Packing Essentials: Layers for varying temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the scenic beauty are all a must.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on regional specialties like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and maple syrup treats.

Things to Do in New England

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, the diversity of New England ensures there’s something for every traveler. Here are some must-try activities:

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking in the White Mountains
• Skiing in Vermont
• Sailing in Newport

Cultural Experiences

• Visiting museums
• Attending theater performances
• Exploring art galleries

Family Fun

Enjoy the attractions of Mystic Aquarium, Six Flags New England, or the Boston Children’s Museum.

New England Attractions

New England has numerous attractions that highlight its natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic coastline, the majestic mountains, or the historic landmarks, the diversity of New England attractions will leave you in awe.

Top Attractions

• Acadia National Park, Maine: Offers stunning coastal landscapes and hiking trails.
• The Berkshires, Massachusetts: Known for its scenic beauty and cultural institutions like Tanglewood.
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Famous for its beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and charming villages. Make sure to explore the Cape Cod National Seashore!

Plan Your New England Tours

With so much to see and do, planning a New England vacation can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in: the best tour planner in New England. Instead of doing it yourself, join us on one of our September and October departures. We have two guided tour options:

• Taste of New England
• Enchanting Islands of New England

New England Tours provides comprehensive, guided tours to ensure your experience is well-organized, stress-free, and super comfortable.

Conclusion

From the quaint villages to the bustling cities, the diversity of New England offers an unparalleled travel experience. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying the vibrant culture of the cities, or relaxing in the picturesque villages, New England has something to captivate every traveler. Explore New England with New England Tours to discover the best of what this incredible region has to offer. With our expert planning and personalized service, your New England adventure will be unforgettable. Visit our website to learn more about our packages and start planning your journey today.