Best New England Day Trips & Things to Do

New England is a compact yet diverse region in the northeastern United States, known for its blend of historic cities, coastal scenery, and seasonal landscapes. It includes six states: Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, each offering distinct travel experiences. Visitors often start in Boston for its colonial landmarks and museums, then move on to Cape Cod and Newport for beaches and maritime heritage. Farther north, Acadia National Park in Maine and the White Mountains of New Hampshire attract travelers seeking hiking, wildlife, and scenic drives. Autumn is especially popular for fall foliage in Vermont, while summer brings cooler temperatures and coastal escapes. Short driving distances make road trips practical, allowing travelers to combine culture, nature, and food - such as fresh seafood and local specialties - within a single itinerary.