winter weekend trips new england

New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont , Winter  ·  October 31, 2022

21 Best New England Winter Getaways (Even For Non-Skiers!) 2023-2024

While New England is known for it’s incredible fall foliage, I actually love the winter season here just as much! Having travelled all over the region in the colder months for 10+ years, I’ve scouted out the absolute best New England winter getaways you can take that will transport you into a quaint winter wonderland.

And the best news? Even if you don’t ski, there’s so much to do in the winter in New England, including ice skating, fireside dinners, relaxing spas, snow tubing, scenic drives, and sampling all the seasonal flavors in some of the best restaurants in the Northeast. Even if you’re just looking for a cozy place to curl up inside with a good book and a warm bath, I’ve got you covered there, too. You’ll never be so excited for a cold winter season after reading this post!

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Best New England Winter Getaways

While most towns in this region make for wonderful and cozy New England winter getaways, here is my list of the ones I think are especially perfect in the winter. Whether you’re looking for the best ski towns, relaxing places to get cozy for the weekend, opportunities for outdoor activities or incredible dining opportunities, you’ll find all of these are more in the towns mentioned on this list.

Be sure to keep reading this post for ideas on the best winter resorts, romantic winter getaways, budget winter getaways and New England getaway options for families !

Best New England Winter Towns

1. stowe, vt.

If I had to pick one place in New England to suggest for both skiers and non-skiers, it would be Stowe in Vermont. It truly has a little something for everyone, and is my favorite suggestion for all types of travelers in the winter including families, couples, solo travelers and those traveling with friends.

It’s also one of the most charming little towns in all of New England. The scenery is picture-perfect with covered bridges, an adorable Main Street, fantastic restaurants, and a distinct New England feel.

Stowe starts the winter season off with a bang with its Traditional Christmas in Stowe celebration, and then makes a seamless transition to their Winter Carnival in January. During their Winter Carnival, you’ll find ice sculpture contests with the creations all over town, fun sporting events and evening parties.

Stowe is also one of the top towns in New England for skiers, and is home to some of the top ski resorts in North America, including the Lodge at Spruce Peak (but more on that later!). The apres ski scene here in Stowe is incredibly fun, and the town makes hitting the slopes very easy.

Not a skier? No problem! Stowe is one of the most picture-perfect and idyllic places in the entire country in the winter. The village is home to beautiful boutiques along a charming Main Street, a cute covered bridge, spas, amazing restaurants, and lovely walking paths for a relaxing stroll.

If you’re looking for some outdoor winter activities in Stowe that don’t involve skis, you’ll want to look into ice skating at the public ice rink at the Lodge at Spruce Peak, snow tubing, and snowshoeing.

2. Waitsfield, VT

Another one of the best areas in Vermont for skiers is Waitsfield, which is home to the Mad River Glen ski region and Sugarbush Ski Resort. Compared to Stowe, this area tends to see fewer crowds (although, the ski trails can still be busy on weekends), and has a more rural atmosphere compared to Stowe.

Waitsfield is one of my favorite towns in the Mad River Valley region, and while it’s not as big as places like Stowe, it has a cute little Main Street, is home to the original American Flatbread Company restaurant (a Vermont staple!), and provides all the cozy winter vibes.

If you’re not a skier, there are a few places in Waitsfield that offer relaxing winter massages, and this is also one of the best areas in Vermont to tour the covered bridges for this idyllic New England landscapes. And of course, you’ll find plenty of outdoor winter activities to choose from like snowshoeing and ice skating.

3. Woodstock, VT

Woodstock is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont, even in winter. It also kicks off the winter season with their Wassail Weekend Christmas celebration in December, and continues to host community events all winter long. And with the gorgeous village center filled with boutiques and cafes, the covered bridge right in town and the beautiful rural landscapes a short drive away, it’s definitely one of the most perfect New England winter vacations.

If you’re hoping to ski, Woodstock has you covered! The Saskadena Six ski resort is a quick 5-10 minute drive from the center of town, and is known as being a great place for beginners. It’s also smaller and more manageable for those looking for a more relaxing ski experience.

The Woodstock Nordic Center is also convenient for those looking to explore the 27 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.

Some other great things to do in Woodstock in the winter are to indulge in all the incredible restaurants (I highly recommend booking a special and cozy dinner at the Lincoln Inn!), tour the covered bridges, get pampered at the spa at the Woodstock Inn and spend your time meandering through the lovely village.

Bonus Suggestions: Quechee, VT

Quechee is a small town that’s a short 10-15 minute drive from Woodstock, and while most people choose to visit during their stay in Woodstock, I actually love to suggest you actually stay right in Quechee. As one of the more underrated towns in Vermont, it’s a bit more spread out than Woodstock’s downtown, but offers a lot to do.

In Quechee, you’ll find unique and fun shopping, a covered bridge, the Quechee Gorge (which is very cool to see in the winter!), a distillery, and great options for dining. One of the best restaurants to check out is The Mill, which is located inside the flagship Simon Pearce store. This cozy restaurant overlooks the river and the covered bridge, and was named one of the most romantic restaurants in the U.S.!

Nestled in the White Mountains region, Jackson is packed with tons of things to do in the winter season, and also has some perfectly cozy places to stay. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have snow no matter when you visit in the winter, and with the incredible mountain views at every turn, it’ll feel like a true escape from reality.

Right in Jackson, you’ll find Nestlenook Farms, which is one of my favorite places to go during the winter season in New England. The property is aglow with twinkle lights, but they also offer great sleigh rides through the woods, and their pond turns into the most gorgeous ice rink in the entire region.

I also love to go snowshoeing at Jackson XC, and they make it easy with rentals right on site. You have lots of options for groomed trails, and also pass by a cute little covered bridge on your adventure. But, of course, if cross-country skiing is your thing, this is a fantastic place to go for that (I just happen to prefer snowshoeing myself 😉).

Jackson is also in a great location in the White Mountains region, and is just a few minutes away from North Conway, and the Scenic Conway Railroad for some lovely winter train rides through the mountains. North Conway also has the quaint little Bavarian Chocolate Haus, which often has sugar plums, and pretty much any kind of chocolate treats you could want in the winter.

One of the coolest and most unique things to do in the area in the winter is to plan your trip around the mount Washington Valley Chocolate Festival . During the festival, local businesses create special chocolate treats that are offered along the cross-country and snowshoeing trails, where you can stop and indulge in delicious desserts along the way! But don’t worry, if you’re not into skiing or snowshoeing, you can also drive to each stop.

5. Littleton, NH

Another one of my favorite towns in the White Mountains region is Littleton, which is one of the best New England winter getaways for those who are just looking for a cozy little spot to relax in the winter.

Littleton has three big claims to fame: Having one of the best Main Streets in the U.S., earning the nickname “Glad Town” as a nod to Pollyanna, as the writer of the famed story lived in Littleton, and lastly, it’s also home to the longest candy counter in the world at Chutters.

Littleton won’t have a ski town atmosphere, but still feels like a winter wonderland with twinkle lights lining the Main Street at night, a beautiful covered bridge that crosses the river, and cozy restaurants. This is definitely the place to stay in New Hampshire if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in a picturesque town.

While the town itself is such a fun place to explore, it’s also in a great location in the western part of the White Mountains, and you’re not far from Franconia and Lincoln for more things to do.

6. Lincoln, NH

Speaking of Lincoln, it just so happens to make for a wonderful New England winter getaway on its town, largely due to the incredible winter activities offered at Loon Mountain. At this ski resort, you’ll be able to hit the slopes, go snow tubing, try your hand at Sno-Go (a combination of skiing and biking!), hop on a gondola for a scenic ride, and enjoy the peaceful cross-country trails.

Outside of the Loon Mountain Resort, you can also enjoy the cute little village, dine at the awesome restaurants and even get your adrenaline going with a winter zip lining tour with Alpine Adventures. And one of the most exciting things to experience is Ice Castles, which typically takes place between January and first week of March.

Lincoln is also the starting place for the gorgeous Kancamagus Highway. Running along Route 112 through the White Mountains National Forest, this route is famous for its fall foliage, but its also a wonderful drive in the winter season for the incredible mountains views.

Psst! I have an entire guide on Where To Stay In The White Mountains if you’re looking for more information on each of the towns and best hotels 😉

7. Portsmouth, NH

For one of the more cozy New England winter getaways, you’ll want to head to the gorgeous city of Portsmouth in New Hampshire! Portsmouth is one of my favorite destinations in New England for history, shopping, and dining, and in the winter, it turns into an idyllic New England post card. While it’s a city, it feels very much like a small town, and is a perfect destination if you’re looking for a change of scenery, but want lots to do steps from your hotel.

One of the most fun things to do in the winter in Portsmouth is to head to the Strawbery Banke Museum , strap on some skates and enjoy their lovely outdoor rink. The museum and the rink sit adjacent to the waterfront park, and you’ll also enjoy views of the historic homes (which are beautifully decorated at Christmas, if you happen to visit at that time).

For amazing shopping, Market Square in Portsmouth is where to be. You’ll find mostly independent boutiques here (some of my favorites are Jane Gee and Sault New England, as well as incredible restaurants.

8. Bethel, ME

One of the best ski towns in Maine is Bethel, and here, you’ll never run out of winter outdoor activities. So if you’re looking to get out into nature and play in the snow on your New England winter vacation, Bethel is a great destination to consider.

Not only is it home to the one the best ski resorts in New England, Sunday River, you’ll find everything here from snow tubing, cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling, ice fishing and ice skating.

When you’re not adventuring outdoors, Bethel also has scenic landscapes you can enjoy (including the Sunday River Covered Bridge), cozy hotels, restaurant and a cute little Main Street.

9. Freeport, ME

Freeport is another destination in Maine that’s perfect for those looking to strike a balance between outdoor activities and enjoying a cute and cozy town. Freeport will be much quieter than other bigger winter resort towns in New England this time of the year, but does a great job celebrating the season.

You’ll definitely want to explore the shops and restaurants along Main Street, and hit up the L.L. Bean Flagship campus to stock up on your winter essentials (flannels, wicked good slippers and warm PJs from here are a must for winter!). Then be sure to grab lunch or dinner at the very comforting Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro.

And when you’re ready to get outside, there are tons of cross-country and snowshoe trails to explore, or you can cuddle up on a scenic sleigh ride with Carousel Horse Farm.

Freeport is also home to one of my favorite breweries in the state, Main Beer Company, and it’s especially cozy to visit in the winter season. The space is very large, but t hey do take reservations. Not only are their beers amazing (try Lunch and Dinner – yes, those are the names of the beers!), but they also serve up some really great brick oven pizzas.

If you happen to visit in February, you’ll want to time your trip just right to experience Flavors of Freeport , where Maine’s best chefs showcase their latest culinary creations, and you’ll find other fun things like the Frosty Frolic, dance parties and the Freeport Foodie Lotto.

10. Camden, ME

Home to the Camden Snow Bowl, this is definitely a top New England winter getaway destination! The Camden Snow Bowl is an exciting winder wonderland ski destination that also appeals to non-skiers. You can, of course, choose to click into your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes, or you can fly down the really fun toboggan chute, which spits you out onto Hosmer Pond.

One of the reasons the Camden Snow Bowl has become internationally recognized is because while the trails are awesome, it also provides incredible ocean views. There’s no where else you can enjoy both mountain and ocean views while skiing in the region, so this is definitely one to consider for your next winter trip.

In addition to the Snow Bowl, Camden is also one of the most charming and beautiful coastal towns in New England , and has a really nice Main Street with great shops and wonderful restaurants offering a fun apres ski vibe.

11. Kennebunkport, ME

If you’re looking to head to the coast for your New England winter trip, Kennebunkport is one of the best towns. While you won’t find a ski atmosphere here, you’ll be greeted with a downtown that’s packed with character, cozy restaurants and ocean views (that are even amazing in the winter!).

But just because it’s a coastal town doesn’t mean it won’t bring all the fun winter activities. In Kennebunkport, you’ll be able to enjoy a scenic sleigh ride with Rockin’ Horse Stables, enjoy cross-country and snowshoe trails at Harris Farm and hit the ice at Waterhouse Center Ice Rink.

One of the best things to do in Kennebunkport in the winter, though, is to head to Batson River Brewing & Distilling and reserve one of their cozy winter fishing shacks for a very fun lunch or dinner.

12. Rangeley, ME

Also known for its skiing, Rangeley, Maine is another amazing destination to consider for your winter vacation. If it’s winter sports you’re after, you definitely won’t run out of options. But you’ll also find plenty to do for non-skiers, too.

For downhill skiing and snowboarding, you’ll want to head to Saddleback Mountain, which is great for all levels from beginner to advanced. For scenic cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing and fat biking, the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center has over 30 miles of groomed trails to explore. And Rangeley Lake is one of the best places to visit in New England if you’ve ever wanted to try snowmobiling – it has over 170 miles of groomed snowmobile trails! And there are lots of places that rent them out or offer tours.

When you’re done adventuring for the day, grab a cozy meal at the Gingerbread House in nearby Oquossoc, meander through the very charming downtown shops, or have a fun night bowling while sipping cocktails at Moose Alley.

13. Portland, ME

One of my favorite things about Portland is that it’s wonderful to visit in any season, including winter, and because most folks head to the mountains to ski, you’ll get to experience the beauty of the city with far fewer crowds.

Since I’m such a lighthouse fanatic, one of my favorite things to do in Portland in the winter is tour the city’s 3 lighthouses to see them covered in a blanket of snow (if I’m lucky, that is). Portland Head Light is beautiful in the winter, and the nearby lighthouses of Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light are also fun to see in the winter.

Portland is also an amazing city to explore if you’re a foodie, and the culinary scene here is incredible. One of the best things to do on a winter getaway in Portland is to make reservations at some of the top restaurants, and indulge in the seasonal flavors.

But if you’re looking to get an insider’s guide to all the best food in the area, you’ll definitely want to book a tour! This walking tour through Old Port is one of the coolest things to do in the city in the winter.

Click here to book your Culinary Walking Tour in Portland!

And, of course, you can’t forget about Maine Restaurant Week, which takes place in March each year.

Here are some of my Maine posts that you may find helpful:

• Things To Do In Portland, Maine In The Winter
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine
• Bar Harbor, Maine In The Winter

14. Newport, RI

Newport in Rhode Island is known as one New England’s most popular cities in the summer, but I love is just as much in the winter. And the best part? You’ll hardly experience any crowds. On top of that, weather in Newport tends to be more mild in the winter compared to other areas of New England, so you likely won’t experience the frigid temperatures, either.

One of the best things to do in Newport in the winter is to simply enjoy everything that makes the city incredible, including touring the famous Gilded Age mansions, walking along the very scenic Cliff Walk, admiring the gorgeous historic homes and diving into the amazing food scene.

One place that’s especially cozy in the winter is the White Horse Tavern, which is the oldest tavern in the country.

But for special winter activities, you can lace up your skates and head to Goat Island, and skate at the rink with awesome views of the lighthouse and Newport Bridge. After your time on the rink, get cozy inside one of the igloos at Gurney’s, which is right on Goat Island, or at The Reef in the heart of the city.

15. Exeter, RI

Just north of Newport in Rhode Island, you’ll find the cute little town of Exeter, which is home to the only ski resort in Rhode Island. If you’re local to Rhode Island and don’t want to travel far for fun winter outdoor recreation, you’ll want to head to the Yawgoo Valley Ski Area.

This ski area not only offers downhill trails for skiers and snowboaders, but it also has a really nice snowtubing park.

After your day at Yawgoo, head to the Tilted Barn Brewery, which is one of my favorites in New England. Not only are the brews at Tilted Barn awesome, in the winter, they have fire pits outside and continue to host food trucks where you can grab some delicious food during your visit.

16. Providence, RI

Another great city destination that’s one of the. best New England winter vacation destinations is Providence, RI. And this is also an incredible place to visit if you’re looking to take in a show or two, as the theater scene here is very exciting. Be sure to check upcoming performances at the Providence Performing Arts Center before your visit.

For winter fun, head to Kennedy Plaza’s outdoor ice rink, which is in the heart of downtown, and offers the most beautiful city views while you glide along the ice.

And, of course, shopping and dining is amazing in Providence year-round. For a little retail therapy, don’t miss the Arcade on Weybosset Street, which has really unique, independently owned boutiques in a very cool atmosphere. And if you’re looking to really get the inside scoop on the culinary scene, be sure to book a tour led by a local to find all the best spots.

Click here to book your culinary tour through Providence!

But one of the best things to do in Providence? Wander the historic streets. There’s so much incredible architecture at every turn in this city, and in the winter, you’ll encounter far fewer crowds, making a relaxing meander through the streets very relaxing.

17. Stockbridge, MA

Stockbridge is one of the most famous Christmas towns in New England, but it’s also one of the best towns for a New England winter getaway during the entire season. Since it’s one of the towns located in The Berkshires, it’s packed with all kinds of outdoor winter activities, and of course, is also home to one of the most picturesque Main Streets.

Normal Rockwell made Stockbridge’s Main Street famous with his Christmas painting, but even after Christmas is over, the town maintains its cozy winter charm. Be sure to visit the shops and local restaurants while there!

Besides exploring Main Street, there are plenty of ski resorts nearby to pick from, many of which also include snow tubing, making these top places to visit in Massachusetts in the winter . Hilltop Orchards remains open in the winter, and invites visitors to do wine and cider tastings, and also snowshoe through their scenic orchard trails.

18. Boston, MA

The biggest city in New England still feels quaint and cozy in the winter, and makes for a really fun winter weekend away. In fact, winter is probably my favorite season to visit Boston! There are so many indoor activities like museums, the aquarium and theaters, and with the incredible food scene in Boston, there are plenty of ways to keep your winter palette happy.

Speaking of food, I’m going to say it again! Walking tours led by local experts are especially fun in the winter, and guess what? I did an entire post on the best food tours in Boston!

In the winter, grab your skates and head to the Boston Common Frog Pond. From there, it’s a short walk to the Public Gardens, which are still beautiful in the winter (especially after a fresh snow fall if you’re lucky).

My personal favorite thing to do in Boston in the winter is to grab a cup of hot cocoa and stroll through Beacon Hill, which is a historic neighborhood close to downtown Boston that feels like a quaint New England village. For a cozy hot cocoa and some seasonal chocolate creations to go with it, grab a table at the very cozy LA Burdick.

Restaurant Week in Boston also takes place in March! This is a great time to visit the city for those looking to explore more of the culinary scene.

19. Chatham, MA

So many people don’t realize that Cape Cod is actually such a great destination in the winter! And one of my favorite towns to stay in during winter visits is Chatham, which is one of the most charming towns on the Cape year-round. A lot of the stores and restaurants in Chatham are also still open this time of the year, which is really convenient.

The weather on Cape Cod in the winter is unique, and much like Newport, RI. most days average in the 40s, and it doesn’t really get a lot of snow. So if you’re looking for a coastal winter getaway to take in the salty air, ocean views, and tackle some of the scenic nature trails, this is a great destination to consider.

I have a whole post on why Cape Cod is wonderful in the winter – be sure o click the link below!

20. Essex, CT

One of Connecticut’s most idyllic towns is Essex, and in the winter, it provides all the cozy vibes you’re looking for in a small New England town. It’s home to one of the most beautiful Main Streets that’s perfect for a little retail therapy, and also one of the country’s oldest inns. It’s so charming, in fact, an actual Hallmark movie was filmed here – Christmas at Pemberley Manor .

Essex is the perfect New England winter getaway if you’re looking to just relax in a small town that’s packed with character. Relax at the Griswold Inn, a historic and cozy little place that provides guests with amenities like a tap room, wine bar, incredible dining and homey accommodations. Grab a glass of wine, settle in next to a fire with a good book, and completely unwind in Essex.

21. Mystic, CT

Last, but definitely not least on my list of best winter towns in New England, is Mystic in Connecticut. While Mystic is also known as an awesome summer destination, I think it’s equally as fun in the winter. Again, you’ll encounter far fewer crowds during this time of the year, and be able to enjoy all the beautiful views and attractions with a different perspective in the winter.

One of the best things to do in Mystic, CT in the winter is the shopping. Between all the really cool shops on Main Street in downtown Mystic, and the very fun Olde Mystik Village just outside of downtown, you could easily spend an entire day indulging in some retail therapy.

While strolling through Olde Mystik Village, be sure to grab a customized hot cocoa from the potion bar and Cloak & Wand. Or, if tea sounds extra enticing on a chilly day, head to Alice in the Village for a very fun afternoon tea service.

And of course, dining in Mystic is wonderful. Treat yourself to some fresh oysters at S&P Oyster Restaurant & Bar. If it’s a little pampering you’re after, you can head to nearby Norwich and indulge at the spa at the Norwich Inn.

Here are some of my posts on the destinations mentioned above you may find helpful:

• Things To Do In Stowe, VT
• Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
• Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Things To Do In Lincoln, NH
• Things To Do In Newport, RI In The Winter
• Cape Cod In The Winter
• Things To Do In Essex, CT
• Things To Do In Mystic, CT

Best Winter Resorts In New England

If you’re looking to head to one of the best winter resorts in New England for your getaway, look no further! All of these places will have everything you need for an amazing and cozy getaway during this magical time of the year, including restaurants on-site, and special touches that make celebrating the winter season a lot of fun. Many of these are luxury options, but keep reading for budget-friendly suggestions, too.

The Lodge At Spruce Peak – Stowe, VT

Not only is Stowe, VT one of the best winter towns in New England, it’s also home to one of the best luxury winter resorts – the Lodge at Spruce Peak . Not only does Spruce Peak have its own little village with shops, it’s home to the very festive ice rink, restaurants, a spa and very cozy rooms in a wintery lodge building. It’s also a ski-in, ski-out resort , with options for townhouses, cabins, penthouses and traditional guest rooms.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Lodge at Spruce Peak

Trapp Family Lodge – Stowe, VT

Another amazing resort option in Stowe is the Trapp Family Lodge , which is home to the best cross-country trails system in Stowe. This Bavarian-style alpine resort also offers amenities like massage services, restaurants, a brewery and bierhall, and winter equipment rentals . And, of course, the style of the lodge itself will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to the Alps .

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Trapp Family Lodge

Omni Mount Washington Resort – Bretton Woods, NH

New Hampshire’s best luxury resort, especially in the winter season, is the Omni Mount Washington Resort . Located in the White Mountains, this resort has all the ingredients for an incredible winter getaway in New England, including a complimentary ski shuttle, spa, restaurants, snow tubing, sleigh rides and cozy accommodations (including a very cool speakeasy which is awesome for the apres ski scene).

I think the best part of this resort in the winter, though, is the incredible mountain views at every turn on the resort grounds.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Omni Mount Washington Resort

Loon Mountain RiverWalk – Lincoln, NH

For another option in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Loon Mountain RiverWalk makes for a wonderful winter resort getaway. The RiverWalk offers complimentary shuttles to the ski base at Loon Mountain, and also has a spa, winery tasting room and restaurant right on site. In the winter, they turn their pool into an ice rink , so you don’t have to go far for lots of winter fun.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the RiverWalk at Loon Mountain Resort

Woodstock Inn & Resort – Woodstock, VT

One of the best New England resorts year-round is the Woodstock Inn & Resort , but in the winter, it’s especially luxurious. It’s been named Vermont’s most beautiful address , and once you pull up, it’s hard not to see why.

Located in the heart of Woodstock’s picturesque village, you’ll find everything here from luxury accommodations, restaurants, a spa, and can even arrange private wine tasting, paired with local Vermont cheeses . There’s also easy access to the cross-country trails from the resort.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates % avilability at the Woodstock Inn & Resort

The White Barn Inn & Spa – Kennebunk, ME

Heading to the coast this winter for a weekend of restoration and pampering? You’ll definitely want to consider booking a stay at the White Barn Inn & Spa , located in Kennebunk, ME.

Just outside of Kennebunkport, you’ll find luxury accommodations here, as well as an incredible and cozy dining room in a gorgeous barn setting , overlooking snow-dusted pine trees. You can also enjoy amenities like a spa, fire pits outside with Adirondacks chairs and snuggly blankets, and seasonal cocktails that can be enjoyed by a fire place .

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the White Barn Inn & Spa

Samoset Resort – Rockport, ME

The Samoset Resort is one of the best luxury experiences in Maine, especially in the winter. Located a short 5-minute drive from the charming town of Camden (home to the Snow Bowl mentioned earlier), this coastal winter getaway destination pulls out all the stops for a cozy winter weekend. You’ll find a spa here, as well as restaurants serving up comforting Italian dishes, a wine bar, and fire pits outdoors with cozy blankets. Select weekends in January also bring their very popular ice bar !

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Samoset Resort in Maine

Winter Getaways In New England For Families

The best winter getaways in New England for families are that offer plenty to do for everyone of all ages include:

• Woodstock, VT
• North Conway, NH
• Lincoln, NH

Best New England Winter Getaways For Non-Skiiers

If you know you won’t be clicking into skis any time soon, I’ve got you covered! Here are my picks for places that make for amazing New England winter vacations, where there’s so much more to do than ski:

• Stowe, VT (even though it’s most known for its ski resort, it’s equally as exciting for non-skiers!)
• North Conway, NH (Nestlebrook Farms is amazing for non-skiers!)
• Littleton, NH
• Chatham, MA
• Portland, ME
• Newport, RI
• Kennebunkport, ME
• Providence, RI

Romantic New England Winter Getaways

For lots of romance on your New England winter vacation, you’ll definitely want to check out the section above on the Best Winter Resorts – most of those are incredibly romantic! And of those selections, I would say that the White Barn Inn and Woodstock Inn & Resort are the most romantic.

For another cozy and romantic option in Stowe, you’ll want to check out the Green Mountain Inn . Located right in the heart of the village on Main Street, you’ll be able to walk everywhere, and many of their cozy rooms come with jacuzzis .

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Green Mountain Inn in Stowe

For a bonus suggestion, I highly suggest Quechee in Vermont ! It’s very close to Woodstock, and you’ll easily be able to tackle both towns in a weekend. Quechee is also home to the Simon Pearce Restaurant & Mill, which was named America’s Most Romantic Restaurants by Travel + Leisure !

A great place to stay in Quechee is the Inn At Marshland Farm , which is more budget-friendly compared to the other popular resorts on this list, and is incredibly quaint and cozy . The rooms feature traditional-style New England designs, and you also get a hot breakfast included with your stay.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm

Affordable New England Winter Vacations

When it comes to New England in the winter, all the popular ski and winter resort destinations will charge accordingly, but don’t fret! There are always budget-friendly places to stay.

In Stowe , a great little motel that I actually enjoy staying at is the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift . The prices are very budget-friendly , and the rooms are cozy and clean. Many of them come with efficiency kitchens , too. It’s also a very short drive to Main Street.

Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift

Since winter is off-season for the coastal destinations , you’ll also be able to find great deals in places like Kennebunkport, Cape Cod and Newport and other cities. Here are some places I recommend checking out for a budget-friendly winter getaway to these destinations:

• The Kennebunkport Inn – Kennebunkport
• Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina – Newport
• An English Garden – Dennis Port (Cape Cod)
• The Cove Motel – Orleans (Cape Cod)
• Boston Park Plaza – Boston
• Port Inn & Suites – Portsmouth
• Residence Inn Downtown – Providence

Important info on New England winter weather: The last couple of years, New England has been impacted by Global Warming, and winter has seen the biggest shift in weather patterns. Just in 2023 and 2024 alone during my winter travels, I’ve experienced -20°F wind chills, followed by days in the 50’s (F). Also, huge rain storms with winds over 50mph and flooding that took out buildings along the coast. And of course, just regular old snow.

All this to say, I highly suggest checking weather forecasts a few days prior to your trip , as experts are saying the new trend for winter in this region is extremes. While it’s generally cold and snowy, it’s also warm on some days, rainy on others, and everything in between.

What To Pack For New England In The Winter

Wondering what to pack for your New England winter getaway? I’m here to help! Here are some things you’ll want to consider bringing with you for your trip to stay warm and comfortable:

• A good parka . I really like these from Eddie Bauer . I’ve been an Eddie Bauer parka wearer for years!
• Warm boots . Depending on where you’ll going, you may only want a pair of short, stylish winter boots to walk around in like these , or you’ll want some warmer snow boots like these . Sorel boots are my ride or die for New England winters, and always keep my feet warm!
• Good socks , especially if you plan to do a lot of outdoor activities. Need new winter socks for the trip? I can’t recommend these Darn Tough Socks enough! And they’re made right in New England (in VT), so it’s very appropriate for this trip. They’re an investment, but built to last, keep you warm and dry, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
• Hats, gloves and scarves . I really like these North Face beanies for warmth and cozy style.
• Base layers . If you plan to ski, or do any other outdoor activities, you’ll want to bring some performance base layers like long underwear or leggings. These affordable base layers on Amazon will do the trick!
• Jeans and sweaters are perfect for days when you plan to just walk around and explore the local towns. I will often just layer up, and add a turtleneck under my sweaters for an added layer of warmth without being too warm.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Ultimate Guide For Visiting Kennebunkport At Christmas
• Christmas in New Hampshire: Where To Go & Festive Things To Do
• The Nantucket Christmas Stroll: Everything You Need To Know
• Magical Things To Do During Christmas In Maine
• Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Best Things To Do in Vermont in the Winter
• Best Things To Do in New Hampshire in the Winter
• Best Things To Do In Maine In The Winter
• Ways To Enjoy Winter On Nantucket
• Best Christmas Towns In New England
• New England Bucket List Things You Must See & Do!
• Best Time To Visit New England

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Winter Getaways

And there you have it! Now that you know about all the very best New England winter getaways, hopefully you’re now feeling ready to plan your own winter adventure. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate ski towns like Stowe or North Conway, or you’re excited to just relax and get pampered at a resort and spa, there are so many incredible options to choose from. But the good news is, no matter where you go, it’s sure to be a magical getaway because the winter season in New England is simply beautiful.

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23 Coziest New England Winter Getaways to Take in 2024

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While you might know that New England is famous for its great skiing, you should know that its winter getaways are made for EVERYONE: skiers and non-skiers alike! I should know–I’m not a skier; but that hasn’t stopped me from enjoying many of the cozy destinations that make for the best winter getaways in New England.

For the classic winter experience, you can’t go wrong with New England. This region is perfect during so many seasons of the year, but it really shines in the wintertime, with its snowy landscapes and charming Christmas towns . New England is truly a winter wonderland!

I’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in New England in winter. These destinations range from typical vacation spots to those more unexpected New England winter getaways, as well as iconic winter resorts perfect for a romantic escape or a family trip. And with warm and cozy winter getaways in all 6 states, you’re bound to find something perfect for your next New England weekend escape.

Grab your boots, some hot cocoa, and a good book. It’s time to get cozy planning your New England winter getaway. 

Table of Contents

The Best Winter Getaways in New England

1. newport, rhode island.

Newport, RI may not be your first thought when searching for the best winter vacations in New England. But while Newport is traditionally known as more of a summer destination, it’s actually one of the more unique New England winter getaways, and with a quarter of the tourists!

My husband and I have visited Newport for a pre-Valentine’s getaway and it was cold yet sunny. We had nearly every place we visited all to ourselves. So romantic! An absolutely perfect spot for romantic winter getaways in New England.

Newport makes for an easy weekend or day trip from Boston, and it’s also quite accessible from other states in the northeast. It’s great to escape to the coast, dine on local fresh seafood, and then warm up indoors with views out to the sea. 

Don’t miss in Newport: The Gilded Age Mansions where you can feel like royalty. Strolling through these hand-in-hand is one of the most romantic things to do in New England in the winter!

Where to Stay: Hotel Viking

2. Burlington, Vermont

Winter in New England is an excellent time for a short city break—especially if you’re not really interested in winter sports.

The small, hip city of Burlington, Vermont is such an awesome destination (I’m biased since I lived there for several years) with so much to do. And there’s a lot to do indoors, which might be key in the coldest winter months. 

Walk up and down Church Street and pop into any shop that catches your eye. There are also plenty of excellent restaurants lining this pedestrian avenue and many cozy coffee shops, bars and pubs, too. The Whiskey Room will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into Britain. Want to warm up with a cup of coffee? Vivid Coffee , one of many great coffee shops in Burlington , has a roaring fireplace and comfortable, ample seating and yummy vegetarian dishes. Later, you can create a DIY tour of all the local craft breweries . 

Don’t Miss in Burlington: Lake Champlain. In mid-winter, this mini “Great Lake” might even be frozen over.

Where to Stay: Hotel Vermont, or one of these great spots

Insider tip: Consider staying in nearby Essex, VT at The Essex Resort & Spa . This is a wonderful property that looks amazing in the winter and has lots of outdoor activities nearby as well. Plus, between the onsite spa and classic, gorgeous hotel rooms and suites (many with fireplaces) it is absolutely ideal for a New England winter getaway. And it’s just a few minutes from Burlington!

3. Rangeley, Maine

There are so many fun things to do in New England in winter, and if you’re looking for great winter activity destination, Rangeley, Maine, is it! Rangely is a great spot to go for a winter getaway that has a bit of the best of all worlds: plenty of opportunity to play in the snow and the perfect places to get warm and cozy afterwards!

Stay in town and go snowshoeing, cross country and alpine skiing at the  Rangeley Lakes Trail Center  or ride up the road to  Saddleback Mountain  or  Sugarloaf.  Rangeley is also one of the  best places in Maine to see moose , so keep your eyes peeled.

Don’t Miss in Rangeley:   Ecopelagicon  for classic Maine staples

Where to Stay:   Loon Lodge Inn

❄️ Read Next: Winter in Maine

4. Boston, Massachusetts

It’s no secret that Boston is a great city, and now I’m sharing the secret that it’s one of the best winter getaways in New England! If you can brave the cold, you’ll find thinner crowds, lower hotel prices, and a city glowing with charm! 

Boston in winter is likely going to focus on indoor pursuits. Might I recommend the museums and galleries? There are dozens. The science museum is one of my personal favorites, and the aquarium is always terrific, too. 

If you want to get outdoors for some winter city fun, you can go ice skating at the Boston Common Frog Pond. Later, warm up at an award-winning spa and dine at a fabulous restaurant . With so many fun indoor and outdoor winter activities, I’d recommend choosing Boston if you’re looking for a winter family getaway! I’ve got a whole list of things to do in Boston, MA with kids for you to consider.

Don’t Miss in Boston: Faneuil Hall or these ideas for Christmas in Boston .

Where to Stay: The Lenox

5. Stowe, Vermont

For many, the best winter weekend getaways in New England involve a near-guarantee of snow. Well, Stowe is likely to deliver! My family visited Stowe in 2001 for the first time just to see snow! (I was born in Florida and had never seen a flake.) Off we went to the dreamy destination of Stowe, Vermont , where we were certain we’d get to see and play in the snow. We weren’t wrong! We had an absolute blast sledding, ice skating, and sipping hot chocolate. And we loved it so much we even ended up moving to Vermont. Clearly, Stowe has a magical influence.

Seriously though, the small town of Stowe is incredibly quaint and postcard-perfect, especially in the winter months; it’s one of the best winter towns in New England. Dine at any of the stellar restaurants , stroll through the snow in the village along Main Street, or enjoy cross-country skiing at Trapp Family Lodge. They also offer sleigh rides at Trapp as well as at Gentle Giants on Mountain Road. I can’t recommend this activity enough; it’s one of my absolute favorite things to do in winter in new england!

PS: If you’re looking to do some downhill skiing, Stowe Mountain Resort can’t be beat.

Don’t Miss in Stowe: Any of the fabulous Stowe hotels with a spa. I highly recommend the spa at The Stoweflake . 

Where to Stay: Trapp Family Lodge or Spruce Peak

❄️ Read more about the best of winter in Vermont in my guide!

6. Westerly, Rhode Island

Another charming coastal New England town, Westerly is most often thought of as a charming summer vacation destination, but those incredible ocean views don’t stop being gorgeous in the winter! You’ll enjoy being able to explore downtown Westerly without having to battle the summer crowds, and there’s plenty to explore! Go shopping, stop in  Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery  for a tasting, and eat at any one of Westerly’s top restaurants.

Of course, if you decide to book a room at the luxurious Ocean House resort, you won’t even have to leave the grounds to have the perfect New England winter getaway! One of the pricier New England winter resorts, it delivers a whole lot of value in exchange for its high rates, with an onsite spa, gourmet dining, ocean views, and little touches of luxury everywhere you turn.

If you’re looking for a luxurious New England winter getaway, Ocean House is perfect. Ask about their charming  Gondola Village  (formerly the Fondue Village) winter experience and book a suite with a fireplace and ocean view to maximize on the winter coziness!

Don’t Miss in Westerly:   Beautiful Watch Hill lighthouse

Where to Stay:   Ocean House

❄️ Read More: Winter in Rhode Island

7. Hartford, Connecticut

City breaks are definitely a good choice for winter weekend getaways in New England and Hartford fits the bill. There are many museums, historic homes, and other spots ideal for staying indoors and out of the winter weather. In this capital city, there’s a great deal of history, including the Mark Twain House and the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center.

But in late winter, you can actually experience a bit of spring come early in Hartford. In mid-March, the Elizabeth Park Conservancy hosts a Spring Greenhouse Show where you can walk through beautiful, vibrant flowers. It’s a great respite from the cold and an exciting look into what spring will soon bring in spades!

Don’t Miss in Hartford: Bushnell Park, and it’s 1914 carousel (but note, the carousel is closed in February/March)

Where to Stay: Hartford Marriott Downtown or The Goodwin

8. North Conway, New Hampshire

When you think of winter in New England, the White Mountains of New Hampshire almost certainly come to mind. After all, they are home to some of the best ski resorts in New England, including the nearby Cranmore Mountain Resort. With miles of trails and a range of winter activities, this region is a haven for outdoor winter adventurers.  Even in the summer, the highest of the White Mountains occasionally has snow! That makes the White Mountains of New Hampshire one of the best snowy holiday destinations in the US.

North Conway is a place that could be considered the best of both worlds. It appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and non-explorers alike. There are classic New England shops (including Zeb’s old-fashioned general store) and other places to stay warm and cozy in the cute downtown strip.

Don’t Miss in North Conway: Dog sledding at Muddy Paws

Where to Stay: The Mountain View Grand Resort or one of these great cabins in the White Mountains .

Travel tip: Don’t miss the Ice Castles in nearby North Woodstock. These frozen structures create an incredible wonderland during the winter in New Hampshire. A must see! While opening dates are weather-dependent, you can almost always find them open if visiting New England in January.

9. Nashoba Valley Ski Area, Massachusetts

Looking for a bit of New England snow without having to head far into northern New England? Then the Nashoba Valley might be right for your next weekend trip. 

This is a super easy drive from Boston and other points south. The Nashoba Valley Ski Area is located in Westford, MA and offers 17 trails, lifts, and lessons. For non-skiers, there’s also a huge snow-tubing area. This is always fun for kids and adults alike, and there are many other family-oriented activities (check out Animal Adventures rescue center!) making this one of my favorite places for New England winter getaways with the fam.

Don’t Miss in the Nashoba Valley: Literary & history lovers should head over to nearby Concord, MA  

Where to Stay: Residence Inn Boston Westford

❄️Read Next: Winter in Massachusetts

10. York, Maine

You can still enjoy the beaches of Maine in the winter (and I prefer them quiet and calm as they are at this time of year). And let’s be honest, it’s sometimes too cold to swim in the ocean even in July, so you may as well come to Maine in the winter. And if you do, go to York!

York, Maine, isn’t just a summer haven; it’s a winter wonderland waiting to be discovered. Having explored York’s nooks and crannies during the colder months, I can personally vouch for its unique charm.

Nubble Light, York’s iconic lighthouse, is a sight to behold in winter. The snow-covered rocks and icy ocean backdrop make it an enchanting spot for photography enthusiasts and romantics alike. Don’t miss the chance to see this beacon of light in its winter glory.

For those seeking a brisk adventure, the Cliff Walk in York offers a unique winter experience. The trail, with its ocean views and rugged coastline, is even more dramatic with the winter winds and crashing waves. It’s a refreshing and invigorating walk, ideal for clearing your mind.

And don’t forget the local shops and galleries. Winter in York is a quieter time, allowing for a more intimate experience with the town’s arts and crafts scene. It’s the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts and support local artisans.

Don’t Miss in York: Stonewall Kitchen

Where to Stay: The York Harbor Inn

11. Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, Vermont holds a place in many a visitor’s heart, including mine, as I lived here for several years! It’s just such a wonderful little town. Located in Southern Vermont, Manchester feels more easily accessible than other parts of Vermont. But you get all the charm and mountain scenery here in Manchester just as you might further north. 

Manchester is well known for its luxury shopping outlets, but really, this is a place to come and relax in the wintertime. There are numerous B&Bs and inns alongside delicious restaurants , and there are fireplaces everywhere. Come to Manchester for a laid back winter weekend.

Don’t Miss in Manchester: The Northshire Bookstore 

Where to Stay: Kimpton Taconic Hotel (you can warm up by their cozy outdoor fire pit)

12. Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, CT is among my favorite New England winter vacation spots—especially in December. The calendar of holiday events is packed full in Mystic, so this is a great time to visit here. Some of the best things to do during the holiday season include the Lantern Light Tours at Mystic Seaport and the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Olde Mistick Village.

Aside from festive and winter activities, there are lots of other great things to do in Mystic , and like many other places on this list of New England winter towns, you’ll have far fewer crowds! Don’t miss in Mystic: Walking around the adorable downtown area (so many cute shops to pop into!)

Where to Stay: Stonecroft Country Inn – with its fireplaces and stunning guest rooms, this is one of the best winter romantic getaways in New England for sure.

Got romance on the brain? Here’s my list of more than 20 other romantic New England getaways to consider—in any season!

13. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Last, but certainly not least, on this guide to the best New England winter getaways is the classic Christmas town of Stockbridge, MA.

This just might be the perfect destination if you’re looking for winter holiday charm. There’s a reason Norman Rockwell painted so many works of art inspired by this slice of classic Americana.

Nestled among the Berkshires, Stockbridge has a lot to offer, and there’s plenty in nearby towns as well. Head over to Lenox to join one of the holiday tours at Edith Wharton’s The Mount . Or, head off to the historic estate of Naumkeag, which puts on the magical  Naumkeag Winter Lights  for the December holidays through January.

Don’t miss: Iconic downtown Stockbridge

Where to Stay: The landmark Red Lion Inn , with its inviting hot tub!

Want more info on celebrating Christmas in Stockbridge? Read this article next!

14. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont is one of the coziest and best winter getaways in New England! And many agree; it’s regularly voted a top Christmas USA town. It is incredibly charming. Woodstock is one of the cutest small towns in Vermont in any season, but as temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, it becomes the perfect winter wonderland. It’s a terrific destination for both family trips and romantic getaways.

There’s  Woodstock Nordic Center  in town if you wish to snowshoe or cross country ski, and just a few minutes up the road is  Saskadena Six Ski Area  if you’d prefer to really hit the slopes! But there’s plenty more to do in Woodstock that will keep you warm and toasty, from browsing the eclectic shops on Main Street to watching the glassblowers at work at nearby Simon Pearce.

And with all the festive Christmas things to do it’s one of the best places to visit in New England in December.

Don’t Miss in Woodstock:   F.H. Gillingham and Sons

Where to Stay:   Woodstock Inn and Resort

15. Jackson, New Hampshire

Another lovely little White Mountains town, Jackson is  home to so much New England winter fun , making this a great family vacation destination. Go skiing at  Wildcat Mountain,  then head to  Nestlenook Farms  for quaint family-friendly winter fun like ice skating, sleigh riding, and hot cocoa sipping! Families with small children will love nearby  Santa’s Village  amusement park in Jefferson—especially perfect if you’re visiting New England in December!

There are several  cozy cabins in the White Mountains  if you’d like to rent a cabin for your stay, but if you’d like to stay in Jackson, check out Christmas Farm Inn and Spa! While not Christmas themed, it is comfy, cozy, and has an indoor pool and onsite spa, so there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy onsite!

Don’t Miss in Jackson:   Nestlenook Farms

Where to Stay in Jackson:   Christmas Farm Inn and Spa

16. Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport isn’t just a summer retreat ; it’s a hidden winter gem. The quiet charm of Dock Square, with its unique boutiques and galleries, becomes even more intimate. Don’t miss the chance to dine at The Clam Shack for the best clam chowder you’ll ever taste. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bridle Path offers picturesque snowshoeing opportunities, with views of the frozen Mousam River that are simply breathtaking.

Want more nature? Winter is an excellent time for bird watching, as many species migrate to the area. The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge offers a serene setting for spotting winter birds and other wildlife.

If visiting Kennebunkport in December, you can’t miss Christmas Prelude, an annual event that celebrates the holidays in a magical, Maine-inspired way.

Don’t Miss in Kennebunkport: A snowy sleigh ride at Rockin’ Horse Stables

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport : The White Barn Inn (ask for one of the fireplace suites!)

Insider tip : Even if you don’t stay at The White Barn Inn, you MUST eat at their restaurant , which in winter has massive, beautiful lighted evergreen trees just outside the picture window. That might just be the coziest restaurant I’ve ever seen!

17. Hanover, New Hampshire

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hanover Inn Dartmouth (@hanoverinndartmouth)

Hanover in winter is more than just Dartmouth College’s idyllic campus (although obviously, that is stunning). It’s about the palpable sense of community at places like Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery , where their homemade pies are a must-try. For those seeking adventure, the Dartmouth Skiway offers not just great slopes but a sense of camaraderie you won’t find elsewhere. And don’t forget to check out the Hopkins Center for the Arts for an evening of culture.

Don’t Miss in Hanover: (Technically in Norwich at the Norwich Inn) Jasper Murdock’s Ale House “one of the smallest and coziest breweries in America.”

Where to Stay in Hanover: The Hanover Inn

18. Stratton, Vermont

If you ARE looking for a New England ski getaway, Stratton Mountain is an excellent choice! Not only is it a fun destination in its own right, you’re also quite close to the cute town of Manchester, which I wrote about above.

Stratton Mountain isn’t just a ski destination; it’s a vibrant winter community. The slopes here are meticulously maintained, with the Sun Bowl being a great place to start your day of ski adventures. Après-ski, head to Grizzly’s at the base for music and a lively atmosphere. For a quieter evening, Stratton Village’s firepits are perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.

Don’t Miss in Stratton: Snow tubing at the Coca Cola Tube Park

Where to Stay in Stratton : Stratton Mountain Resort, the heart of it all

19. Sugarloaf, Maine

Earlier I mentioned Rangeley, which is a great Maine winter getaway. Sugarloaf Mountain Resort is a mere 35 minutes away, but it is a destination all its own. Located in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, Sugarloaf is a snowy paradise, not just for its expansive ski terrain but for the unique culture it embodies. As you carve down the legendary Narrow Gauge trail, you’re not just skiing; you’re tracing the tracks of Olympians. There are also options for backcountry skiing in this area. But one unique winter activity here at Sugarload is Fat Biking,

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, or a busy day reading inside by the crackling fire (my version of bliss), gather at The Widowmaker for its upbeat atmosphere and local craft beers. It’s where the mountain’s pulse can truly be felt. For a more serene evening, take a snowshoe tour under the stars, culminating with hot cocoa afterwards.

Don’t Miss in Sugarloaf: Lobster mac and cheese at 45 North Restaurant

Where to Stay in Sugarloaf: Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel (with its 30-person hot tub!)

20. Providence, Rhode Island

I have been to Providence only a handful of times, but I can’t wait to go again! What a cool city! And Providence in winter is a great place to be. The city looks extra magical with a dusting of snow, and you can spend most of your time inside exploring the cultural offerings.

The RISD Museum is a treasure trove of art and design, perfect for a chilly day. There are tons of cool bookstores in Providence, including many perfect for the H.P. Lovecraft enthusiast (aka, my husband). When night falls, bundle up and go check out WaterFire , an incredible art installation that lights up the river on select nights throughout the year.

Don’t Miss in Providence: Explore historic Federal Hill

Where to Stay in Providence: The Dean

21. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

Litchfield Hills is about embracing the quieter side of winter; classic charm with a touch of elegance. There’s a reason this area inspired Gilmore Girls! The White Memorial Conservation Center offers peaceful, scenic trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Prefer to stay indoors? No problem. The towns of Woodbury and Litchfield have numerous antique shops, perfect for browsing on a chilly winter day. For foodies, the West Street Grill in Litchfield is a must-visit; it’s one of the most beloved restaurants in the area.

If your Connecticut winter getaway takes place in December, be sure to pop down to the city of Bethlehem, especially for its annual Christmas Town Festival. Their town green also boasts an 85-foot Christmas tree—the tallest in the area!

Don’t Miss in the Litchfield Hills: The festive holiday train rides at the Railroad Museum of New England .

Where to Stay in Litchfield Hills : Litchfield Inn for a blend of modern amenities and classic charm. (Their Tavern Off the Green is perfect for a cozy dinner.)

❄️Read Next: 6 Wonderful Winter in Connecticut Vacation Ideas

22. Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier’s small size belies its big heart. The Vermont State House, with its golden dome, is even more impressive against a snowy backdrop. The downtown is very charming with lots of great local shops. Montpelier was hit hard this summer during the catastrophic flooding that affected parts of Vermont. Numerous businesses were damaged and are rebuilding. They could use our tourism dollars and support more than ever. For a bit of local flavor during your visit, aka, the liquid gold we call maple syrup, the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is a must-visit. This is especially true in late winter, when the sap starts to run, but the farm is open year-round.

Don’t Miss in Montpelier: Sarducci’s Italian restaurant – amazing food and the coziest location on the river

Where to Stay in Montpelier: The Inn at Montpelier (fireplaces in many of the rooms!)

23. Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, in winter is a coastal wonderland, where the crisp ocean air blends with the charm of a historic city. As snowflakes gently settle on the cobblestone streets of the Old Port the area takes on a magical, almost storybook quality. Sounds dreamy right? It is!

Art lovers will find solace and inspiration at the Portland Museum of Art. This cozy refuge from the winter chill houses a fantastic collection of works, ranging from local Maine artists to internationally renowned masters. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon, wandering from gallery to gallery, lost in the world of art.

A visit to Eventide Oyster Co. is a must. Their lobster roll, served on a steamed bun with brown butter, isn’t just good—it’s a culinary revelation.

Families traveling with children will find a warm welcome at the Children’s Museum of Maine. This interactive and engaging space is perfect for letting little ones explore, learn, and play. As a parent, I can personally attest to its appeal—my toddler absolutely loved it! From hands-on exhibits to imaginative play areas, it’s an ideal spot for family fun, even on the coldest of days.

Of course, Portland’s winter charm extends beyond these highlights. The city is filled with cozy coffee shops, local bookstores, and unique boutiques, making it a wonderful place to explore and unwind. Whether you’re savoring a warm drink, browsing for gifts, or simply enjoying the snowy cityscape, Portland in winter is a destination that captures the heart and delights the senses.

Don’t Miss in Portland: Gourmet Maine potato donuts from The Holy Donut

Where to Stay in Portland : The Francis (and grab breakfast from Hot Suppa down the block– I promise you won’t regret it!)

Best Winter Resorts in New England

Maybe you’re searching for a winter vacation in New England based less on location and more on amenities and experience. Or perhaps you want to know exactly where to stay to have one of the most unforgettable New England winter trips of your life. A resort could be the perfect solution, where you have everything you need right onsite! You will love these options I’ve put together, which include some of the best winter resorts in the Northeast.

Samoset Resort – Rockport, Maine

Maine is an awesome choice for winter New England getaways. And Samoset Resort in Rockport is a great place to stay. Set on the rocky shores of Penobscot Bay, this luxurious retreat offers stunning views of snow-dusted landscapes and icy waters. Whether you’re cozying up by a roaring fire in your room or unwinding in the spa, the resort is a haven of warmth and comfort against the crisp winter air.

Visit in January to experience the Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge, where 50,000 pounds of crystal clear ice are transformed into an epic, stunning ice bar. Sip on one of the amazing hot or cold winter-themed cocktails while you “chill out” by the ice bar, then head inside to warm up in one of the nearby lounges and enjoy some small bites. For 2024, Samoset Resort Glacier Ice Bar will be open January 12–14 & 19–20 and the theme is Circus. You can find more information and a purchase tickets here .

For outdoor adventures, head to the nearby Camden Snow Bowl for skiing, tubing, & more. Plus, it’s the only ski resort in the northeast where you can ski and enjoy views of the ocean at the same time!

The Woodstock Inn – Woodstock, Vermont

As I mentioned earlier, Woodstock is a fabulous destination for a northeast winter vacation, and there’s nowhere better to stay in Woodstock than the Woodstock Inn.

Located in the heart of downtown Woodstock, this iconic resort evokes words like classic, elegant, and timeless. It truly is beautiful. Within the resort, enjoy their gorgeous spa, season food menus, and massive roaring fireplace in the lobby. And of course, you’re just minutes (if not steps) away from some of Woodstock’s top things to do. Book one of the Legacy Suites for the ultimate experience.

Chatham Bars Inn – Chatham, Massachusetts

Would you believe that Cape Cod is one of the best winter getaways in New England for non skiers? Well, it is! There’s just something special about the off-season here, and while it might not feel like a typical winter escape, you can have a really unique experience with the Cape “all to yourself.”

Chatham Bars Inn boasts “the most beautiful address on Cape Cod,” and it’s not hard to see why. This 5-star, luxury resort overlooks the ocean and the inn itself is world class, from their dining to the spa and more. The hotel has won dozens of awards.

If you’re looking for winter getaways in Massachusetts this is a clear winner. There’s plenty to do in the area and at the resort, and the events calendar is packed for the holidays.

The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa – Whitefield, New Hampshire

The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa in Whitefield, New Hampshire, is an excellent choice for a New England winter retreat. It makes for a magical romantic winter getaway, especially if you indulge in the Grand Tower Experience at the acclaimed Tower Spa. You can enjoy relaxing couples treatments while being treated to some of the best views around. The tower is six stories high and offers panoramic views of 57 mountain peaks!

The Mountain View Grand is also one of the best winter family getaways in New England. They offer tons of fun winter activities like tubing, sledding ice skating, and cross-country skiing. In the evenings, enjoy toasting smores around the nightly campfire. If you need even more family-friendly ideas, pop over to the resort’s on-site farm to see sheep, alpacas, bunnies, llamas, and goats All in all, this sounds like a dream New England winter experience.

Spruce Peak – Stowe, Vermont

If you want a New England vacation that feels like you’re inside an actual snow globe, let me recommend Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont. This is a true ski village experience, with slopes just a breath away and an endless array of other winter activities to try. Snowshoeing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding are all available right at the resort. And further afield in Stowe you can find snowmobiling, sleigh rides, and dog sledding.

But you don’t even need to leave the resort! In my opinion, between the heated pool and the glistening ice rink, you’ve got all the best winter activities right at your doorstep.

Omni Mount Washington Resort – Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Finally, the last on my list of best winter hotels in New England is one that is bursting with activities. The Omni Mount Washington Resort is adjacent to New Hampshire’s largest ski area, but there is so much to do here for non-skiers, too! Just to name a few: sleigh rides, snowshoeing, ziplining, gondola rides. And that’s just outdoors!

When you stay here you’ll not only be staying at one of the classic New England resorts, you’ll be within reach of everything there is to enjoy in the White Mountains. And there’s a lot!

More Winter and Christmas travel in New England: ❄️ Best Christmas Towns in New England ❄️ Merriest Christmas Celebrations in New England –

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November 17, 2023 By Lyndsay

17 Wonderful New England Winter Getaways for 2024

• 1.1 Unique Winter Getaways in Maine
• 1.2 Unique Winter Getaways in New Hampshire
• 1.3 Unique Winter Getaways in Vermont
• 1.4 Unique Winter Getaways in Massachusetts
• 1.5 Unique Winter Getaways in Rhode Island
• 1.6 Unique Winter Getaways in Connecticut
• 2 What to Pack For a New England Winter
• 3 The Best New England Winter Getaways: Wrap-Up

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

If you want to get away this winter but don’t know where to go, think about heading up north to New England.

The six Northeast states that make up this region of the United States have everything from quaint lodges and winter sports to inside activities for those who don’t love the cold.

Since I’ve lived in the region most of my life, I have some pretty strong favorites for the best New England winter getaways!

I also asked some of the best travelers and travel writers I know to tell us their secrets and reveal their top spots, too.

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Most Popular New England Winter Getaways

For a romantic winter weekend in New England, I recommend Newport, Rhode Island.

Here, you’ll find a perfect blend of historic landmarks, beautiful nature walks, and excellent restaurants.

The best place to stay in Newport is the luxurious Castle Hill Inn .

For the New England winter getaway for non-skiers , I recommend Mystic, Connecticut.

Enjoy a relaxing winter vacation by popping into shops downtown, enjoying authentic New England seafood, and taking a boat tour along the Mystic River.

The best place to stay in Mystic is the Inn at Mystic .

For a winter family getaway in New England, I recommend North Conway, New Hampshire.

You’ll find a great combination of outdoor activities like ski touring and snowshoeing, as well as interactive experiences like the Conway Scenic Railroad. And just an hour north, your kids will marvel at all the holiday activities at Santa’s Village in Jefferson.

The best place to stay in North Conway is the White Mountain Hotel and Resort .

Unique Winter Getaways in Maine

1. freeport.

A charming hotel sits in Freeport, Maine, called the Harraseeket Inn .

This estate is really a home-away-from-home place for New England winter getaways. Every time I visit, the best part is heading inside my room to relax with a glass of wine in front of my room’s wood-burning fireplace.

And, the staff will keep bringing you wood until you don’t want any anymore. They also have an indoor pool, which means that you can turn swimming, my favorite summer pastime, into a wintertime activity.

Just a block down the road from this quaint hotel is the L.L. Bean flagship store .

If you’re interested in shopping for any of the brand’s signature clothing items, this is the place to do it.

But, they’re also known for engaging the community in outdoor activities.

L.L. Bean offers Outdoor Programs at all points throughout the year at many different locations in the United States, but some of the best are provided here.

I’ve gone on a few snowshoeing excursions with them, and it’s always a great day!

With day trips like snowshoeing to cross-country skiing, to multi-day Wilderness First Aid or First Responders courses, you’ll be exploring the great outdoors in no time. 

2. Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine and is only an hour and a half drive from Boston or 40 minutes from Portland.

Every time I’ve enjoyed romantic winter getaways in New England to Kennebunkport, it’s had snow on the ground and presents the perfectly charming winter scene to visitors.

It’s a quintessentially quaint small town in New England of roughly 3,700 residents.

The charming main street provides a lovely afternoon shopping experience with the local shops and items.

Seafood is highly prevalent with the restaurants in the area at all times of the year and is always fresh.

Nearly everyone has New England Clam Chowder on the menu, and you simply can’t go wrong with this hearty dish in the winter months.

Throughout the month of December, they also have an outstanding schedule of activities leading up to the Christmas season, including a tree lighting downtown, and everyone gets into the spirit of the holidays.

You can also find plenty of winter activities in town or nearby – from horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country ski trails, and even a skating rink.

A charming inn on the waterfront with spectacular views of the sea (and a gorgeous beach to walk along) is the  Beach House Inn .

You’ll feel right at home in this cozy Inn, and for a bit of luxury, they have a spa in-house and a delightful restaurant.

Submitted by Jamie from  Travel Addict

3. Bar Harbor

If you love national parks, you’re sure to enjoy Bar Harbor–home to Acadia National Park–in the winter.

In addition to the beautiful scenery, outdoor enthusiasts have many activities to keep them busy, like hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

Walk the Shore Path, a 1-mile long path along the coastline, or the more challenging 5-mile Jordan Pond path around the lake.

Then, grab a bite at Jordan Pond House Restaurant while in the park.

Make sure you leave enough time to drive up Cadillac Mountain for incredibly scenic views and watch the waves roll in on the Sand Beach and the rocky Thunder Hole.

If you’d like a guide through Acadia National Park, you can take either a 3-hour private driving tour or purchase an inexpensive self-guided audio tour .

Back in Bar Harbor, you need to visit Atlantic Brewing Midtown, the downtown location of the popular local Atlantic Brewing Company, for a bite and a beer.

You can also take a culinary walking tour of the town and Mount Desert Island to learn more about the area’s incredible food opportunities.

If you’re looking for a great place to stay, the Balance Rock Inn offers a luxe experience with breathtaking views right along the coast in a beautifully restored turn-of-the-20th-century mansion.

Unique Winter Getaways in New Hampshire

Lincoln, New Hampshire, is a serene winter destination for those looking for the best New England winter getaways.

Just 2 hours from Boston, Lincoln is an enjoyable place for those who like to spend time outdoors, especially in winter.

The quaint town has a cozy, small-town vibe but still has several quirky, locally-owned restaurants and shops. 

The town is home to some of the most popular ski resorts on the East Coast and one of the only  Ice Castles in the United States .

It’s also right near Franconia Notch State Park, one of the state’s prettiest state parks.

Spend the daytime hours downhill skiing at the Village of Loon Mountain Lodges .

The small, family-friendly resort boasts 61 named runs and 370 acres of skiable terrain.

The nearby RiverWalk Resort is also an excellent choice for winter activities in town.

For a great meal with an eclectic atmosphere, have lunch at the Gypsy Cafe in the heart of Lincoln.

At night, head to the Common Man for dinner, then book a visit to  Ice Castles  in the neighboring community of North Woodstock. 

This acre-sized frozen fortress is made entirely from ice. With ice slides, caves, tunnels, crawl spaces, and fountains, the icy attraction looks like something out of a fairy tale.

The Instagram-worthy experience is illuminated in the evening hours with color-changing LED lights embedded in the ice.

It’s a fun place for both kids and adults to spend an hour or two exploring, surrounded by the finest elements of winter getaways in New England. 

Submitted by Melissa from Passports and Parenthood

5. Jefferson

Have you always wanted to visit Santa’s home? What about attending a class at Elf University?

If you can’t get to Santaland at Macy’s in New York City , you should check out Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire.

While the park at the base of Mount Washington is open throughout the year–they even have a water park for summer visitors–the best time to visit this Christmas haven is in the winter! 

Santa’s Village is open only on the weekends, starting mid-November through mid-December, with a final New Year’s Eve Partybration to ring in the New Year.

With winter wonderland activities like a full-park scavenger hunt, traditional theme park rides with a holiday twist, a 3D movie, and even Santa’s Christmas Light Show, this is sure to be a fun-filled family winter getaway in New England.

You can buy tickets on their website in advance.

While the village has several food stands, sweet shops, and cozy restaurants on-site, they don’t provide any lodging options.

While there aren’t many hotels in the area, you can find some really nice homestays for your winter weekend getaway on VRBO .

Or if you wanted to splurge, the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa ( Booking | Hotels ) is also nearby!

Since 1865, the Mountain Grand View Resort & Spa has offered guests a perfect winter getaway experience.

You can find miles of trails throughout their property for snowshoeing, snow tubing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The hotel also partners with Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in town to offer local dog sledding.

If you’re not interested in outdoor winter activities, curl up with a good book while admiring the view from one of their spacious, comfortable guest rooms or suites. Or, spend an afternoon in their luxurious Tower Spa or fitness center.

6. North Conway

Found in the heart of the White Mountains, North Conway is one of the most picturesque towns in New England, located about three hours north of Boston.

This quaint little village is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway during the cold months.

There are numerous hiking trails throughout the White Mountain National Forest, and you can enjoy scenic spots like Cathedral Ledge or follow a relatively flat, gravel hiking trail to Diana’s Bath Waterfall.

Opened initially as a sawmill in the 1800s, the trail to Diana’s Baths is easy to follow. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the 75-foot waterfalls.

Or, if there’s snow on the ground, head to the Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring & Snowshoe Center , where you can wind your way along 40 km of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails.

More than half of their trails are considered “easy,” perfect if you’ve never tried cross-country skiing or snowshoeing before!

If you’re interested in learning more about the mountains, head over to the Mount Washington Observatory Offices right off the White Mountains Highway in North Conway to learn more or take a weather station tour.

Another great activity in North Conway is the Conway Scenic Railroad.

During the holiday season, they offer Santa’s Holiday Express. With this interactive treasure-hunting experience, kids will even have a chance to meet Santa while enjoying the beautiful views along the Conway Branch train line.

Book your stay at the White Mountain Hotel and Resort ( Booking | Hotels ) to spend even more time in this beautiful town.

The hotel offers a year-round heated outdoor pool and hot tub, so you can enjoy swimming even on the coldest winter days with snow-capped mountain views. A spa and two restaurants are also on the property, making for a perfect staycation.

Unique Winter Getaways in Vermont

7. killington.

One of the best New England winter getaways is the town of Killington.

It is a tiny town mostly known for the Killington Ski Resort, located in the Pico Mountain Ski Resort .

This is the largest ski resort in the Eastern part of the United States, and it is a lovely place to visit. 

The highest peak of the area is Killington Peak, with a height of 4,229 ft.

There are many trails that are great for beginners and those who consider themselves to be experts. In fact, there are about 150 trails with about 20 lifts! 

Whether you like snowboarding or skiing, this really is one of the best ski towns in New England.

However, the best place to stay in Killington is the Killington Grand Resort Hotel . It’s very close to the Ski Resort, only about a 10-minute drive.

Furthermore, there are plenty of amenities at the resort, such as a pool and a restaurant, and enjoy breathtaking views from the resort peaks. 

Submitted by Dymphe from  Dyma Abroad

8. Woodstock

Woodstock, Vermont, is the quintessential Hallmark movie town . Although this quaint village is beautiful year-round, it’s truly a wonderland for winter getaways in New England. 

Those looking for outdoor fun may enjoy a sleigh ride from Woodstock’s central village to the Windsor fields.

Additionally, Billings Farm offers plenty of winter activities for the kids, whereas picturesque Sleepy Hollow Farm makes for some stunning winter photos.

Alternatively, if winter winds are too cold for comfort, visitors can take the fun inside for a day of indoor ice skating at Woodstock’s Union Arena.

For the adrenaline junkies, the Woodstock Country Club offers access to wooded trails across Mt. Tom and Mt. Peg for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.

Families seeking adventure will also enjoy taking the kids out for an exhilarating day of sledding on the Old Mt. Tom Ski Hill, featuring a 500-foot vertical drop!

Woodstock also serves as the perfect jumping-off point for Suicide 6, a popular ski resort located just ten minutes away in South Pomfret.

Those who prefer a more relaxing getaway will enjoy a leisurely village stroll while browsing the area’s numerous boutiques.

From jewelry to home décor, to flannel clothing, to the state’s oldest operating bookstore, Woodstock shops offer something for everyone. 

Then, when it’s time to wind down, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal in one of the village’s many farm-to-table restaurants. 

Finally, with bellies full, it’s time to retire to the beloved Woodstock Inn & Resort , located right in the heart of this charming town.

This historic hotel offers guests a spa, four unique restaurants, and a roaring fireplace, perfect for warming up after a fun-filled day outdoors.

It’s the ideal place to experience  Vermont in the winter .

Submitted by Elena from The Carry-On Chronicles

Up in the northern region of Vermont, Stowe is one of those perfect places where people go to escape the hustle of city life.

Overlooked by Mount Mansfield, this historic town is well known for the Stowe Mountain Resort for its skiing and the Trapp Family Lodge .

Originally from Salzburg, Austria , the real-life story of the von Trapp family was immortalized in the classic movie and musical The Sound of Music .

But the film, featuring Julie Andrews in an Oscar-winning role, stops with the family escaping Austria during World War II.

The von Trapps story continued; they settled in Stowe, Vermont, and ran the Trapp Family Lodge after leaving Europe.

With its Austrian architecture and luxury accommodation, the resort has exciting offerings like the von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall, Trapp Kaffeehaus, and The Meadow, an outdoor amphitheater.

For those seeking a more active vacation, Stowe is the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, golfing, fishing, downhill skiing, and even alpine skiing.

The Trapp Family Lodge has its own Outdoors Center, with hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing during the winter months.

Need some gift-giving inspiration this holiday season? Check out my guides on the best travel essentials for women , travel gifts under $20 , zero-waste travel essentials , and great gifts for friends going abroad !

Unique Winter Getaways in Massachusetts

Despite having a reputation for being too cold in winter for a visit, Boston’s coastal location makes its winters much milder than other New England areas while still blessing it with at least a few fluffy, lovely snowfalls each season. 

While you’re here, you can’t miss the opportunity to outdoor ice skate, either at the Frog Pond at the Boston Common or at the seasonal pop-up skating rink at Boston City Hall. 

Speaking of pop-ups – if you visit around the holidays, Boston has a variety of festive pop-up bars.

Themes include tiki bar Christmas at Shore Leave (South End), igloos at the Envoy Hotel (Seaport), and a Hanukkah-themed pop-up at Backbar (Somerville), as well as a massive tree lighting downtown. 

If you’re in the mood for some sightseeing, don’t let the chilly temperatures deter you from Boston’s premier historical attraction, the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail.

The Trail guides you through 16 historic sites that led to Boston’s nickname of “the cradle of the American Revolution.”

Attractions include Paul Revere’s home, the site of the Boston Massacre, and the USS Constitution. 

If you start to get a bit chilly, consider stopping in at Faneuil Hall for some piping hot clam chowder (in a bread bowl, of course!) or delicious hot cocoa at Ogawa Coffee in the Financial District.

In the evening, take in a show at the Wang or Schubert Theatres, a vintage movie (often in 35mm!) at the iconic Art Deco Coolidge Corner theatre, or a sporting event or concert at T.D. Garden.

Submitted by Tegan & Alex from  Why Not Walk

11. Northampton

When people think of Massachusetts, Boston usually comes to mind. But there are a lot of  fun things to do in Western Massachusetts  as well!

Small towns dot the landscape, and one of our favorites is Northampton. Its Main Street is cheerfully decorated during the winter, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants that you can spend hours in.

A favorite restaurant is The Dirty Truth. It’s a beer hall that also has excellent food. Try the Mac & Cheese with panko bread crumbs; it’s delicious!

If you’d like to spend a few hours indoors, we recommend visiting the Smith College Museum of Art. It’s one of the leading academic museums in the country.

Their exhibits are always expanding and rotating, so if you’ve visited before, chances are you’ll see something new.

Another great place to warm up from the outside cold is the Lyman Plant House and Conservatory.

Its main greenhouses date back to 1895, and they house 3,000 species of plants.

A great place to stay in Northampton is the Hotel Northampton .

It’s in the middle of downtown, with shops, galleries, and restaurants all within a short walking distance.

Built in 1927, the hotel is a member of Historic Hotels of America and has hosted presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries.

Submitted by Vicky from Buddy the Traveling Monkey

12. Chatham

The whole of Cape Cod is such a beautiful area to explore any time of year. Although most people enjoy coming in the summer months to enjoy some of New England’s best beaches, it’s just as beautiful during the winter.

Found all the way at the east end of the peninsula, Chatham offers everything you love about quintessential New England.

This picturesque seaside town doesn’t provide a lot by way of outdoor winter sports. Still, it’s the perfect place to spend a romantic winter getaway in New England.

Along the coast, you can go for a winter walk along the beach or check out one of the town’s historic lighthouses.

Or in town, you can find small museums like the Marconi-RCA Wireless Museum , exploring the history of this radio station.

There’s also the Chatham Railroad Museum , housed in a restored railroad depot from 1887.

Along Main Street, you can find local boutiques, delicious restaurants, and local attractions like the Orpheum Theater , a historic single-screen movie house recently restored and now shows new releases.

Although there are several other hotels in town, none are as charming as the Chatham Inn . The Relais & Châteaux property is one of the oldest inns on Cape Cod.

Throughout their 18 rooms, you’ll find modern amenities with luxe finishings just steps away from the activities on Main Street.

Unique Winter Getaways in Rhode Island

13. newport.

Although I enjoy visiting this New England town in the fall , Newport, Rhode Island is beautiful to visit in the winter season.

At this time of year, there are fewer tourists visiting the famous Gilded Age mansions, and the restaurants are less crowded.

This is also the time of year to discover the fantastic hotel and rental rates.

The Admiral Fitzroy Inn ( Booking | Hotels ) on Thames Street is one of my favorite locations to stay.

They’re right in the middle of downtown Newport, close to all the popular places, and they provide complimentary breakfast throughout your stay.

Or, if you want a truly romantic getaway, the Castle Hill Inn ( Booking | Hotels ) is a luxury hotel in a perfect destination for you and your date to enjoy.

There is so much to do during the winter in Newport!

Take a tour to see inside the famous mansions, which are all ornately decorated for the holiday season.

Head to the Gurney’s Newport Skating Center for some outdoor ice skating.

Get out on the water for a tour to see seals, as the colder weather brings them back to Narragansett Bay.

And make sure you stop at Kilwin’s (like the candy shop in Williamsburg, Virginia ) for some decadent winter treats.

As the only ski resort in Rhode Island, Yawgoo Valley Ski Area & Water Park holds a particular spot in this list of the best New England winter getaways.

With two trails and two chair lifts, the facility is well-equipped to handle all ages and abilities.

Once you’ve finished your day at Yawgoo, you’re only a 20-minute drive from the shoreline in Narragansett.

Stop at one of the two local breweries, Whalers or Sons of Liberty, and enjoy a local-to-New-England pint before heading back to your hotel.

Many beachside hotels, like the Aqua Blue Hotel , have discounted rates during the colder months, so take advantage of the off-season prices. 

F un Fact : Spending a day at Yawgoo Valley for its water park is one of the best things to do in Rhode Island in the summer , too!

Unique Winter Getaways in Connecticut

15. middlefield.

The tiny town of Middlefield not only has one of my favorite apple orchards in Connecticut , but it also has a beautiful ski resort.

Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort is a great place for New England winter getaways.

Although it’s technically not an all-inclusive resort, it does have everything you need on-site for a great vacation. 

Depending on how you plan on spending your time, you can buy 4-hour, 8-hour, and Nighttime only day passes for unlimited lift access for skiing and snowboarding.

There’s even a pass level for the beginners of your group. Or, you can buy a 1-hour and 45-minute pass to their snow tubing area.

I had never heard of snowbiking before, but they even offer a class on how to ride a snowbike!

You can stay overnight on the property and enjoy your evening at one of their restaurants or head about 15 minutes up the road into Middletown, Connecticut, to stay at the Inn at Middletown .

16. Uncasville and Ledyard

Maybe you’re not an “outside winter activities” kind of human. In which case, I feel you.

Although I enjoy the occasional outdoor hike or ski trip, one of my absolute favorite, best New England winter getaways, is heading to the casinos to cure some winter blues. 

And in Connecticut, there are two world-class casinos only a 15-minute drive apart.

Great restaurants, sports arenas, performance venues, and typical games await you on the casino floors, while gorgeous views of the surrounding lands can be found from hotel rooms.

Ledyard is home to one of the largest casinos in the region, Foxwoods Resort Casino .

Founded on Mashantucket Pequot tribal lands, the casino pays homage to its Native American roots with the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center.

This metropolis is home to sprawling casino floors, performance venues, dining experiences, and lots of shopping.

Seriously, if you’re interested in shopping all day, Foxwoods is where you want to go – an entire Tanger Outlets mall is located inside the casino.

Foxwoods has several phenomenal hotels on the property.

Of the options, The Grand Pequot Tower at Foxwoods is centrally located to the main casino areas, while The Fox Tower at Foxwoods has incredible views of the landscape.

Mohegan Sun is the neighboring casino, located in Uncasville.

This casino was built on Mohegan Native American lands, and although the experience here is a bit more intimate, in that it’s not as large as Foxwoods, it’s by no means a small space.

They have excellent family entertainment areas, many different concert halls, and restaurants.

Make sure you head to the Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana location, a New Haven Connecticut apizza favorite, inside Mohegan Sun.

Although there are two hotels at Mohegan Sun, I recommend The Sky Tower , which has great views of the Thames River.

This final, favorite New England winter getaway is a historic waterfront city in Connecticut. Since the 1700s, Mystic has been a hub for the ship-making industry.

One of its major museums, the Mystic Seaport Maritime Museum , is a living history museum that recreates an authentic 19th-century New England naval community.

Mystic is another excellent winter weekend vacation if you’re not interested in traditional winter outdoor activities.

Among the other fun things to do in town , you can explore the Mystic Aquarium , shop at the 1720s, colonial-style colonial Olde Mistick Village , visit the many art galleries downtown, or grab a lobster roll or another fresh seafood dish.

And don’t forget about those beautiful views–it’s hard to beat the breathtaking views of the Mystic River on a historical boat cruise.

To add to your winter vacation, check out the Inn at Mystic . Found right along the Mystic River, this charming hotel has more than 50 rooms between two manor houses.

Each room features a private bath, while some include a wood-burning fireplace, private Jacuzzis, and outdoor balconies or courtyards.

What to Pack For a New England Winter

New England winters are notoriously cold, snowy, and windy . So pack accordingly!

To ensure you stay safe and comfortable during your visit, here’s an idea of what to wear when visiting this region during the winter months:

👉 Thermals – If you have them, wear a thermal layer underneath your clothing to help preserve your body heat.

👉 Boots – Bring waterproof boots that fit well, insulate your body heat, and protect your feet from icy sidewalks and slushy roads.

👉 Scarf, Gloves & Hat – A wool scarf and a hat that covers your ears are ideal. If your gloves are too thin for being out in the snow, pair them with glove liners.

👉 Sunscreen – When you’re outside in the snow all day, it’s recommended to protect your skin with a layer of sunscreen to prevent sunburns.

The Best New England Winter Getaways: Wrap-Up

Now is the perfect time to plan a trip to one of the many beautiful New England winter weekend getaways!

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away in a quaint town or an outdoor adventure-filled ski trip, I hope you’ve found some great ideas for where to go.

What do you recommend as the best winter getaways in New England?

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Winter Getaways in New England

Lodging, seasonal recreation, and snowy family fun.

You might think you have a general idea of what a Winter Getaway in New England might look like. Insider heads-up here: it’s even better and probably a lot more varied that you are expecting. Maine , New Hampshire , Vermont and Massachusetts all have their great ski areas, of course, with skiing, snowboarding, rentals, lessons , and lots of indoor entertainment for adults and kids. But you can also step away from the white powder for all kinds of other fun. Guides offer unusual adventures like dog sledding, ski mobile tours, ice fishing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Got an appetite? Resorts, hotels and downtowns in every state have unique restaurants cooking up healthy, creative dishes, very often from locally sourced foods. Then there’s the indoor fun: wine tasting, shopping , spa treatments , indoor water parks for the kids, theaters and live music everywhere. Winter also brings frosty festivals , usually with indoor and outdoor entertainments. New England is glorious in the ice-and-snow months!

Norseman Resorts

135 Beach Street Ogunquit, ME, 03907 Phone: 207-646-7024 Toll-Free: 800-822-7024

All the delights of the winter season are yours at year-round beachfront resort

Cliff House

591 Shore Road Cape Neddick, ME, 03902 Phone: 207-361-1000 Toll-Free: 855-210-6901

It’s a wonder: Winter at this luxury resort means indoor pools, spa days and much more

Grand Harbor Inn

14 Bay View Landing Camden, ME, 04843 Phone: 207-230-7177 Toll-Free: 877-553-6997

With an interior Inspired by Tuscan villas, hotel is a warm, inviting retreat for your winter getaway

The Wolfeboro Inn

90 North Main Street Wolfeboro, NH, 03894 Phone: 603-569-3016 Toll-Free: 800-451-2389

Winter is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities, or just relax, at this Lakes Region inn

Castle Hill Resort

Junction of Routes 103 and 131 Proctorsville, VT, 05149 Phone: 802-226-7361 Toll-Free: 888-764-6836

Winter means time to frolic in the snow, or relax by the fireplace, at this year-round resort

16 Bay View

16 Bay View Street Camden, ME, 04843 Phone: 844-213-7990

Ready to ski, or just seeking a room with a view and a fireplace? Winter breaks are the best at Camden hotel

Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club

2907 Main Street (Route 6A) Brewster, MA, 02631 Phone: 508-896-9000 Toll-Free: 800-343-6074

Here’s a wonderful idea: Book your winter getaway at gorgeous resort on Cape Cod Bay

The Whaler's Inn

20 East Main Street Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-536-1506 Toll-Free: 800-243-2588

Winter shines brightly in Mystic, where historic inn reflects the town’s culture, character

Manchester View

77 High Meadow Way Manchester Center, VT, 05255 Phone: 802-362-2739 Toll-Free: 800-548-4141

Hit the slopes, relax by your fireplace: Mountain inn helps you truly enjoy your winter break

Town of Bethlehem

Charming town is the perfect location from which to launch your White Mountains exploration

15 Beacon Street Boston, MA, 02108 Phone: 617-670-1500 Toll-Free: 877-982-3226

Walkable and welcoming, Boston is a delight in the winter, and this hotel is in the heart of it all

White Mountain Hotel & Resort

87 Fairway Drive North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-7100 Toll-Free: 800-533-6301

If the mountains are calling you in the winter, listen – and book into this breathtaking resort

Woodstock Inn Brewery

135 Main Street North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-3951 Toll-Free: 800-321-3985

Plan your White Mountains adventures from this charming, popular country inn

Stanton House Inn

76 Maple Avenue Greenwich, CT, 06830 Phone: 203-869-2110

Classic New England bed-and-breakfast inn particularly welcoming in the winter

Lafayette's Oceanfront Resort

393 Mile Road Wells Beach, ME, 04090 Phone: 207-646-2831

When it’s time for a break from winter, seek out this beachfront resort with indoor pool

Rockport Harbor Hotel

20 Central Street Rockport, ME, 04856 Phone: Toll-Free: 844-326-3090

Winter getaways at boutique hotel in historic waterfront village are relaxing — and fun

Steele Hill Resorts

516 Steele Hill Road Sanbornton, NH, 03269 Phone: 603-524-0500 Toll-Free: 855-475-4372

Snow-covered paradise, Lakes Region resort offers on-site snowshoeing, skating, sledding with skiing nearby

Lake Morey Resort

82 Clubhouse Road Fairlee, VT, 05045 Phone: 802-333-4311 Toll-Free: 800-423-1211

Stay at this resort, and you’ll see why it’s true that no one celebrates winter like Vermonters

Franconia Inn

1172 Easton Road Franconia, NH, 03580 Phone: 603-823-5542 Toll-Free: 800-473-5299

Ski, snowshoe, skate – or just relax by a crackling fire – at this welcoming mountain inn

The Landmark Trust USA

707 Kipling Road Dummerston, VT, 05301 Phone: 802-254-6868

Historic properties close to winter activities a unique way to celebrate winter

The Pointe Hotel at Castle Hill Resort

Come celebrate the joys of winter with Vermonters at cozy Green Mountains resort

Lord Camden Inn

24 Main Street Camden, ME, 04843 Phone: 207-236-4325 Toll-Free: 800-336-4325

Fireplace suite with a water view, full buffet breakfast make hotel a must for winter escape

Summit Resort

177 Mentor Avenue Laconia, NH, 03246 Phone: 603-556-7028 Toll-Free: 855-474-4360

Lakes Region resort has amenities, special packages to elevate your winter getaway

Boston Harbor Hotel

70 Rowes Wharf Boston, MA, 02119 Phone: 617-439-7000 Toll-Free: 800-752-7077

Warm up to the idea of a winter escape at this hotel in the center of walkable, wonderful Boston

Stone Hill Inn

89 Houston Farm Road Stowe, VT, 05672 Phone: 802-253-6282

Relax by your room’s fireplace or hit the ski trails: Stowe inn offers classic winter getaways

Deerfield Inn

81 Old Main Street Deerfield, MA, 01342 Phone: 413-774-5587

Historic Deerfield, and its famous inn, both have a special sparkle in the winter

Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

Santa’s Village, ski resorts, great restaurants: What more could you want for a winter escape?

Harbour Towne Inn on the Waterfront

71 Townsend Avenue Boothbay Harbor, ME, 04538 Phone: 207-633-4300

Both active and relaxing, coastal Maine offers many options for vacationers, and this inn is in heart of it all

Briar Barn Inn

101 Main Street Rowley, MA, 01969 Phone: 978-653-5323

Warm and welcoming, this North Shore inn, spa and restaurant offers a relaxing winter escape

Center Harbor Inn

294 Whittier Highway Center Harbor, NH, 03226 Phone: 603-253-4347 Toll-Free: 877-567-2117

Celebrate winter at resort on Lake Winnipesaukee, close to seasonal activities

Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts

Whether winter means recreation or relaxation, the Berkshires has a getaway just for you

Westbrook Inn B&B

976 Boston Post Road Westbrook, CT, 06498 Phone: 860-399-4777

Whether winter means recreation or relaxation, this inn will make your seasonal getaway a perfect one

Stonehurst Manor

3351 White Mountain Highway North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-3113 Toll-Free: 800-525-9100

Snuggle before a fire or ski down the slopes: It’s your call when you book a winter retreat at North Conway resort

Conway Scenic Railroad

38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-5251 Toll-Free: 800-232-5251

Scenic railroad’s Snow Train to Attitash Mountain Village a popular winter escape

Sterling Ridge Resort

155 Sterling Ridge Drive Jeffersonville, VT, 05464 Phone: 802-644-8265

Something special about spending a winter vacation at this mountain resort

Inn at Harbor Hill Marina B&B

60 Grand Street Niantic, CT, 06357 Phone: 860-739-0331

Winter is the perfect time for seaside escapes, and this inn offers relaxing, romantic atmosphere

Salem Waterfront Hotel

225 Derby Street Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-740-8788 Toll-Free: 888-337-2536

Waterfront hotel and historic Salem welcome visitors warmly in the winter months

Huttopia - White Mountains

57 Pine Knoll Road Albany, NH, 03818 Phone: 603-447-3131 Toll-Free: 844-488-8674

For your winter break, explore the great outdoors then come home to your cozy mountain cabin

Mountain Top Resort

195 Mountain Top Road Chittenden, VT, 05737 Phone: 802-483-2311

On-site activities, accommodations at this resort make winter a time filled with marvels, magic

Inn at Ellis River

17 Harriman Road Jackson, NH, 03846 Phone: 603-383-9339 Toll-Free: 800-233-8309

Charming riverside inn, in the heart of Mt. Washington Valley, is especially welcoming in winter

Harbor Light Inn

58 Washington Street Marblehead, MA, 01945 Phone: 781-631-2186

Take a break from winter, or embrace it, with a visit to inviting harbor district inn

Fireside Inn Ocean's Edge

159 Searsport Avenue Belfast, ME, 04915 Phone: 207-338-2090

Sit by the fireside in your room-with-a-view or head out for skiing, snowshoeing, shopping

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Best weekend getaways in new england.

Known for its historical roots, rugged landscape, savory seafood and rich sports culture, New England is home to a variety of vacation destinations. But with so many picture-perfect towns spread from the coast to the mountains, it's hard to decide where to head for a weekend getaway. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, culture, food and more to determine the best weekend getaways in New England. Cast your vote below to help us decide next year's ranking. Considering a fall trip to New England? Read our top travel tips »

Newport, RI

Portland, me, martha's vineyard, acadia national park, kennebunkport, white mountains, block island, the berkshires, sugarloaf mountain.

Visitors heading to Newport, Rhode Island, will be treated to breathtaking coastal vistas, glamorous seaside homes and top-notch sailing. Soak up some sun at Easton's Beach, or enjoy the sound of crashing waves while strolling the scenic Cliff Walk. If you'd rather treat yourself during your trip, hit up Thames Street, a bustling strip with delicious eateries, small boutiques and historic Colonial structures. Don't forget to save time for a tour (or two) of Newport's elaborate mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House.

An ideal destination for foodies and culture hounds, Portland, Maine, is filled with award-winning restaurants, museums, breweries, art galleries, boutiques and more. Spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets of the historical Old Port, where boats line the harbor and seafood is aplenty. Or, venture southeast of the city to Cape Elizabeth to snap a picture of the iconic Portland Head Light – one of the most photographed lighthouses in America – and hike or picnic in Fort Williams Park.

A popular summertime island retreat for New Englanders and politicians alike, Martha's Vineyard appeals to all types of travelers. Fly or take the ferry from the mainland to explore the Massachusetts island's six towns and numerous beaches. Don't miss the colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, the fresh seafood in the village of Menemsha or the boutiques in Vineyard Haven. While the island's eastern side is walkable, it's best to take a bus or car to the dramatic Aquinnah Cliffs on the more rugged western side.

Many pass through Bar Harbor on their way to Acadia National Park , but this charming seaside town is definitely worth a stop. Located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is bursting with locally owned boutiques, fresh seafood restaurants and gorgeous coastal views. Walk the scenic Shore Path for views of Frenchman Bay and multimillion-dollar mansions, or take a ride on a lobster boat to learn about the craft firsthand. While the town is popular in summer, its smaller crowds and vibrant foliage in autumn make it equally appealing during the shoulder season.

For a quintessential New England getaway, head to this Massachusetts peninsula known for its laid-back vibe. Vacationers can bask in the sun somewhere along Cape Cod National Seashore's 40 miles of sand before digging into a plate of fried clams or retreating to a quaint bed-and-breakfast . When planning your visit, keep in mind that each Cape Cod town is a little different. You'll find upscale shops in Chatham, historical landmarks in Sandwich, sky-high sand dunes in Wellfleet and a thriving LGBTQ community in Provincetown. Cape Cod's ample restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and ocean views are enough to keep you busy for days.

In the mood for an adventure? This more than 47,000-acre national park in Maine, one of the state's top attractions , is perfect for hiking, biking and rock climbing, among other outdoor activities. Your top priority should be to hike 1,530-foot-tall Cadillac Mountain – it's the first spot in the country to catch a sunrise from October to March. If you're not a fan of hiking, rent a car and make the drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road. You'll pass the dramatic edge of Otter Cliffs and the cave at Thunder Hole, as well as other wonders visible from the road's pull-off observation areas.

The largest city in New England is fairly compact and walkable – perfect for sightseeing in just a few days. History buffs can follow the Freedom Trail to learn about the American Revolution before stopping for a beer at the historic Bell in Hand Tavern. Foodies can get a taste of Italy in the North End or indulge in some fresh oysters and clam chowder in the Seaport District. Meanwhile, fashionistas can browse the many shops on Newbury Street, and souvenir hunters can visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace. No matter your interests, your trip to Boston would not be complete without visiting Fenway Park.

Despite its small size, Nantucket has no shortage of activities. Board a ferry from Cape Cod or fly into the island's airport to enjoy a unique Massachusetts vacation. Visit Cisco Brewers for private brewery, vineyard and distillery tours, or simply enjoy the food trucks and live music. While Nantucket is a walkable island, many visitors enjoy renting bikes or mopeds to explore the area, especially tiny Siasconset Village. You'll want to also save time for watching the sunset at Madaket Beach on the island's west coast.

It doesn't get more relaxing than Kennebunkport, Maine. You can lay on sandy beaches, stroll through quaint boutiques and sample local specialties like lobster rolls, oysters and blueberry pies. There are also plenty of unique ways to see the town, including on foot during a food tour, by boat while on a lobster boat tour and by trolley with Intown Trolley. Plus, you can stop along the way to take pictures of Walker's Point – the Bush family compound. Keep your eyes peeled for other famous faces, as Kennebunkport is a popular celebrity vacation destination.

Although Stowe's small-town charm and dramatic vistas make it a beautiful destination year-round, snow lovers won't want to miss this Vermont retreat in all its winter glory. Stowe is dubbed the "Ski Capital of the East," but this New England hideaway is also ideal for snowboarding, snowshoeing and dog sledding. If you'd rather visit during the warmer months, consider hiking the Stowe Recreation Path or driving the Auto Toll Road to the top of Mount Mansfield for unbeatable views of the Adirondack Mountains. Whichever season you prefer, fans of "The Sound of Music" can't miss a visit to Stowe's Trapp Family Lodge.

If historic walking tours, charming bistros and tax-free shopping describe your ideal New England weekend, book your ticket to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, today. Take a narrated boat tour of the Isles of Shoals, or spend the day exploring Market Square, the gem of downtown Portsmouth. For a breath of fresh air, sink your toes in the sand at nearby Wallis Sands State Beach or stroll through the gardens at Prescott Park. Time your visit for summer to attend the Prescott Park Arts Festival, which transforms this beautiful green space into a vibrant outdoor performance venue.

Whether you're looking for a quiet mountain hideaway or an activity-filled weekend, potential abounds in the White Mountains. Designated as a protected national forest, the White Mountains cover parts of New Hampshire and Maine. Take the scenic route along the Kancamagus Highway, and consider stopping at a campground along the way. If you're visiting in summer, hike, drive or take the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit of its namesake for spectacular views. In winter, shred powder on some of the best ski slopes in New England before curling up with a cup of hot cocoa at a bed-and-breakfast.

Walk any direction on Block Island and you'll end up at a free public beach. This oasis off the southern coast of Rhode Island features 17 miles of shoreline, as well as old-fashioned cottages and two historical lighthouses. Take in sweeping ocean views from Mohegan Bluffs, or look for animals at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. If you want an adrenaline rush, try snorkeling in the island's crystal-clear waters, biking around its picturesque perimeter or hiking its Clayhead Trail. A quick ferry ride from the mainland will take you to Block Island, making it an easy weekend retreat.

The rolling mountains of the Berkshires attract everyone from artists to nature lovers to city dwellers looking for an escape. This region of western Massachusetts has long been a culture and history hub. Charming towns like Great Barrington and North Adams draw visitors with their quaint main streets and historic homes. The town of Lenox is home to the famous Tanglewood concert venue, while the town of Pittsfield boasts many theaters and art galleries. You'll find a variety of festivals to attend in summer, vivid foliage in fall and plenty of skiing in winter.

Situated in western Maine's Carrabassett Valley, Sugarloaf Mountain has a lot to offer travelers looking for an exciting weekend getaway in New England. In winter, enjoy a range of cold-weather activities – including cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing and more – at the mountain's namesake ski resort. In summer, take advantage of the warmer temperatures by mountain biking, zip lining or hiking sections of the famous Appalachian Trail.

About 20 miles northeast of Boston, this Massachusetts town is best known for the witch trials of the late 17th century, which you can learn all about on a historical walking tour. For an even bigger dose of local culture, visit in October when the town hosts Halloween-themed events all month long. You'd also be remiss to skip top sights like the Peabody Essex Museum and The House of the Seven Gables, the setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel of the same name.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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9 Best Winter Getaways in New England

If you’re looking for the best winter getaways in New England, then our comprehensive list of towns and cities below should be inspiring.

The New England region of the United States is made up of the 6 northeasternmost states: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Flanked by New York, the Atlantic Ocean and Canada, the area is famed for its gorgeous autumn foliage, forested mountains, picturesque lakes, and colonial past.

While many of New England’s towns and cities are great to visit all year round, they have a special charm in cold weather, transformed by glittering snow and festive activities. New England is one of the most beautiful snowy places to visit in the USA.

There are so many things to do in New England in winter, and the region has some of the best skiing and ski resorts in the country. But there are also a host of other exciting adventures, activities, winter day trips, road trips, and events to take part in as well.

If you live in New York or one of the surrounding states, those quaint New England lodges are only a short drive away − definitely doable for a long weekend. The internet is full of cheap weekend getaways in New England that you can take advantage of.

And if you have more time and want to stay a bit longer, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how scenic, relaxing and exciting a winter vacation in New England can be.

ⓘ TIP: If New England is just a little too far and you don’t have time for winter weekend getaways from NYC, check out our article covering things to do in New York City in the winter.

Popular winter getaways in New England

There’s little doubt that the most popular places to visit in New England during winter have to be the many ski resorts in the area. Among the best known are Sugarbush, Killington, Stowe, and Bretton Woods. But there are plenty of other things to do in New England as well.

There are hundreds of towns and cultural and historic sites with that unique New England character. You’ll find typical New England winter activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, fat biking, and dog sledding, as well as plenty of spots that are perfect for wintertime hiking.

And it goes without saying that when it comes to all inclusive resorts and cheap vacations, New England does not disappoint. You’ll find a wide variety of affordable romantic getaways in New England, family travel deals, and winter day trips throughout the region. And it goes without saying that there are an endless range of restaurants and winter festivals here to keep you entertained.

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The best winter vacation spots in New England

We’ll explore some of these popular places for an idyllic New England winter vacation in this article. The best winter break destinations include Stowe and Burlington (Vermont), Boston (Massachusetts), Jackson (New Hampshire), Bethel (Maine), Greenville (Maine), Hartford and Litchfield (Connecticut), and Newport (Rhode Island).

Here are New England’s best winter getaways, arranged by state.

ⓘ TIP: Not sure where to go? For last-minute deals in New England, click here.

Best winter getaways in Vermont

1. stowe, vermont.

Stowe, Vermont is a picture-perfect quaint little town with only about 4,000 residents. It’s set in an idyllic setting, surrounded by lots of nature and wilderness that has something amazing to offer in every season. Whether you’re looking for romantic getaways or kid friendly vacation resorts, you’ll find your bliss here.

Winter in Stowe offers a myriad of exciting indoor and outdoor activities. These include a gondola sky ride at the luxurious Stowe Mountain Resort with panoramic views from the top of Mt. Mandfiled, ice skating on the free-access public rink at the Spruce Peak Village Center and watching an intimate live performance at The Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center.

For families and adventure-lovers, you could try an unforgettable Ethical Dogsledding experience, or zip through the back-country forest roads on snowmobiles. If you feel like being pampered, there are some fabulous luxury New England resorts. Perhaps you could visit the spa at Stoweflake Mountain Resort and then pop over to the Ben & Jerry’s factory for some of the best ice cream in the world.

ⓘ TIP: If you’re a fan of The Sound of Music, stay at the Trapp Family Lodge. The Captain and his family opened this hotel in Stowe after they escaped the Nazis during World War 2. You’ll feel like you’re in Austria without leaving America!

2. Burlington, Vermont

This small city is actually the largest one in Vermont, situated on a hillside that overlooks Lake Champlain and tucked amongst the Adirondack mountains.

Burlington is abuzz with busy restaurants, live events and festivals, art shows, museum exhibitions, incredible shopping and many outdoor activities. Across the four seasons, it offers a range of exhilarating pursuits.

During winter in Burlington, some of the highlights for visitors include the New Year’s Eve Highlight celebration, listening to world-class music at the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, browsing through shops along the Church Street Marketplace, or watching a show at The Flynn Theater.

There’s also great skiing to be had nearby on mountains like Sugarbush, Smuggler’s Notch, Mad River Glen, and Stowe. The city is full of good restaurants and cafes, including some great vegan and vegetarian options like Revolution Kitchen, Juice Amor, and Pingala Cafe. Burlington also has several breweries and distilleries where you can warm up with an adult beverage.

Best winter getaways in Massachusetts

3. boston, massachusetts.

The city of Boston is one of the premier winter destinations for many Americans, as it has so much to offer in the way of cultural and historic activities, festivals and events, restaurants and nightlife. It also ranks as one of the best New England winter getaways because it’s within close range of many popular ski towns and winter outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for romantic winter getaways in Massachusetts, then Boston is a great cold weather destination as well.

If there’s snow, you can try sledding through Boston Common or snowshoeing at the expansive Gore Place. Boston has plenty of wintertime festivals to choose from, such as the annual Hanukkah Festival of Lights at the Museum of Fine Arts and the city’s annual First Night celebrations. And of course, the city has plenty of festive Christmas markets to choose from, including the highly popular Boston Winter Holiday Market.

On sunny days, you can stroll through the Boston Common along the Freedom Trail, which meanders past some of the city’s most impressive historic sites. You’ll see many of Boston’s most-loved landmarks, like the Massachusetts State House (with its awe-inspiring golden dome), the Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House.

When the weather outside is frightful, there’s no end to the museums and indoor attractions on offer. For families, the Boston Science Museum and the Boston Aquarium are both fun and educational ways to entertain your kids. Arts lovers can visit the iconic Boston Opera House, which has a riveting variety of performing arts shows, and the Prudential Center in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood has some of the best shopping in the city.

Best winter getaways in New Hampshire

4. jackson, new hampshire.

If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing place for a winter getaway, or somewhere to spend a romantic weekend or even to have a unique wedding, Jackson in New Hampshire ticks all the boxes. The place is so charming and romantic that it has a bridge nicknamed the “Honeymoon Bridge”, fabled to bring good luck to those who grab a kiss beneath it.

The town is located in the heart of the White Mountains and although it has a tiny population, there are several great places to stay which ooze with New England charm.

In addition to great skiing, at places like Black Mountain and with the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation , there are also a range of other outdoor winter activities. You can also ice skate on a lake, explore the forested estate by snowshoeing, or experience a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow, complete with hot chocolate, bonfires and a lantern-lit trail.

Or for something unusual, visit the ice castles in Lincoln — there are only four others in America!

Best winter getaways in Maine

5. bethel, maine.

Surrounded by lakes and mountains, this quintessential New England village is a delight in all four seasons. It’s a great place for families and those who want a quiet and secluded escape from bustling city life.

Bethel is close to some of the best ski slopes in Maine and has over a hundred trails around the Sunday River Resort and Grafton Notch State Park. If you’re looking at New England family vacation packages, you’ll find a range of winter activities in the White Mountain National Forest, including hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing.

Experience all-year canoe trips and dog sledding adventures, try fat biking for a winter adrenaline rush … and your children will probably love it if you take them snow tubing at the Sunday River Resort.

Another popular place to visit in Bethel is the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum, which has an exciting collection of minerals and gems as well as space rocks. The various Museums of the Bethel Historical Society also offer an entertaining way to explore the origins of the area.

6. Greenville, Maine

The town of Greenville, Maine, is another great winter getaway destination. Located along the spectacularly large Moosehead Lake , and looked upon by the impressively high Mount Kineo, this little town has lots of character. It’s also a popular choice of getaway for those who love the great outdoors.

For shopping, visit the town’s Kamp Kamp Moosehead Lake Indian Store, Mud Puddle Mercantile , and Northwoods Outfitters Moosehead Lake. To learn about the history of the town and area, visit the Moosehead Maritime Museum and the The Center for Moosehead History.

Lily Bay State Park is about a 9-mile drive from Greenville. Spanning 925 acres, the park has year-round activities which include winter camping, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and some great hiking.

There are some comfortable hotels in the area, such as the Lodge at Moosehead Lake , as well as a variety of cozy mountain cabins. You’ll also find a variety of local eateries, some of which offer live music. Two favorites are the Stress-Free Moose Pub & Café and Kelly’s Landing.

Best winter getaways in Connecticut

7. hartford, connecticut.

Connecticut’s state capital, Hartford, is special for its beautiful parks and gardens, riverfront, and cultural attractions. You can find dozens of things to do here.

Maybe you’d like to wander the town visiting historic places like Mark Twain’s home (famous for having authored the books Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn), art museums like the Wadsworth Atheneum, or watch an innovative performance at the Hartford Stage.

Have fun with the family ice skating at Winterfest at Bushnell Park which offers free skating, rentals and lessons. Bushnell Park is somewhat of a winter wonderland when it snows, and a walk through the park can be topped off with a ride on the Carousel or a visit to the nearby Christmas lights displays at the Holiday Light Fantasia.

First Night Hartford is also a special winter holiday celebration for New Year’s Eve. This cultural, artistic, and alcohol-free event entertains participants with musicians, artists and exhibits and is a great family-friendly way to bring in the new year.

8. Litchfield, Connecticut

Only a short drive from Greenwich, the quaint little town of Litchfield is a great place for a relaxing winter vacation. It has a selection of interesting shops like Housatonic Trading Company (where you can search for antiques and bargains), and is a short drive from the annual Christmas Town Festival in Bethlehem that is certain to fill you with festive spirit and cheer.

Litchfield is situated along the Connecticut wine trail so you can taste wines at some of the nearby vineyards like Haight-Brown Vineyard and Hopkins Vineyard.

The town also has plenty of fun outdoor activities on offer. These include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the expansive White Memorial Foundation’s ski area, downhill skiing and snowboarders at nearby Mohawk Mountain or Ski Sundown, and hiking in Macedonia Brook State Park.

Best winter getaways in Rhode Island

9. newport, rhode island.

The city of Newport in Rhode Island is known for its sandy white beaches, sailing and Gilded Age mansions, as well as its proximity to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. This cosmopolitan city has so much to offer in any season – great restaurants and cafes, boutique shops and lots of accommodation options for any budget.

Newport’s New England charm, its harbor, and its mansions attract thousands of visitors each year, so winter is a nice, quiet time to visit. Popular activities in Newport include walking along Cliff Walk, visiting the Gilded Age mansions, wine tasting at one of the Newport Vineyards, going out on a seal-watching tour, or taking part in the Newport Winter Festival .

If you’re a history buff or you appreciate museums, then the Touro Synagogue (the country’s oldest synagogue), the National Museum of American Illustration and the International Tennis Hall of Fame museum should keep you busy. The Thames Glassblowing Studio is another popular favorite.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, the White Horse Tavern is nearby. It’s the country’s oldest tavern.

What to pack for a New England winter vacation

Winters in New England can be very cold and rainy, and frequently experiences heavy snowfall. So here’s an essential list of things to take along during your getaway:

• Winter jacket
• Warm winter socks (ideally woolen)
• Snowshoes or snow boots
• Your ski gear (if you have your own)
• Rain jacket or travel umbrella
• Camera – we carry the Sony RX100 (point-and-shoot) and the Sony a7Rii (a full-frame mirrorless camera)
• Winter scarf, gloves and hat
• Sunglasses, to protect against snow glare
• Facial sunscreen

ⓘ TIP: We’ve got a full list of winter gear in our Amazon shop. Check it out!

ⓘ TIP: If you want to go beyond preserving your vacation with a camera, you can try customizing commemorative coins with the names of places and classic landmarks you have been to. They’ll make nice souvenirs once you get home.

Winter weather in New England

New England’s winter climate can vary depending on which state or city you’re in. Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, most parts of Massachusetts and northern Connecticut experience cold winters with heavy snowfall. Rhode Island and the southern parts of Connecticut generally have milder winters and less snowfall.

As a general rule of thumb, areas that are closer to the ocean will be slightly warmer and have less snow.

Final thoughts about winter vacations in New England

Winters in New England are a magical time of year when snow covers forested mountaintops, lakes freeze over with ice, and towns are adorned in twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations. It’s the time of year when New Year’s celebrations abound, and when you can cozy up to a blazing fire with a cup of hot chocolate.

It’s also the season when you get to have fun trying out all those adventurous winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, dog sledding, romantic carriage rides through the snow, and even winter camping.

Just make sure you pack warmly, wherever you choose to spend your winter vacation in New England. And have a good time!

ⓘ Need some more wintertime destination inspiration? If you’re an American, we’ve covered the best New England winter getaways , things to do in NYC in winter , warm winter vacations in the USA , and the top day trips from Orlando and Miami . For winter in Europe, read about the best European Christmas markets , Christmas in Crete , and places to visit in Europe in December , We also have cold-weather guides to Vienna , Munich , Salzburg , Hallstatt , Zagreb , and Ljubliana , as well as a winter packing list . We’re here to help you enjoy traveling in the winter!

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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Early Bird on the Trail

Top 10 New England Winter Getaways & Activities For Each

Do you love charming New England towns & streets, festive cafes decorated with lights, and beautiful snowshoe or ski trails?!

If you’re looking for an adventurous getaway , a “ #1 ski town in the US “, or just want to stroll quaint New England streets and shops – you’ll find it all on this New England winter getaway list!

I put my decades of living and exploring in New England into this post so you can find the perfect escape and best New England getaway this winter!

And don’t just take my word for it! These towns have repeatedly shown up in lists of favorites from Travel + Leisure, Smithsonian Magazine, and Martha Stewart of which I note for each one.

In addition to a list of the best New England winter towns, you’ll also find a list of indoor and outdoor activities for each location. Sample activities include:

• Festive woods walks decorated with lights ✨
• Ice Castles 🏰🧊
• Santa’s Village 🎄
• Magical train rides to the top of the mountain in the Northeast! 🚂
• A village that has 13 ski areas within a 30-minute drive ⛷

🗺 Location : Included in this post are magical New England towns way up north and southern gems in case you want to keep your drive short or not experience as much snow or cold.

So pack your favorite wool sweater, a good book, and maybe your pup that will be trodding the trails with you and cuddling by the fire!

Table of Contents

🏆 Overall Awards- A Quick List ❄️

Known for its picturesque towns and villages, right out of a Thomas Kinkade puzzle 😍 there are lots of New England towns to choose from for a quintessential relaxing winter getaway.

The following locations are great options to enjoy the simple pleasures of a Northeast town in winter; sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire, admiring or snowshoeing through snowy fields, or strolling through quaint ski towns. Be as active or relaxed as you want to be!

The Best Most Charming Winter Destinations in New England

1. the southern berkshires: stockbridge, great barrington, & lenox, massachusetts.

Why it’s on the list: “ While eastern Massachusetts serves as the economic engine of the state, those in search of captivating rural beauty should make their way to the Berkshires on the Western edge. ” ~forbes.com

Forbes knows, and I know, too, after living and exploring here for four years.

With more than 100 world-class cultural attractions, superior outdoor recreation (hiking, skiing, snowboarding), and a famous farm-to-table food scene, no southern New England winter getaway that’s better than the Berkshires.

This destination in southern New England is chock full of festive winter activities. ( So many that I made a whole separate post detailing 33 festive and fun winter activities in the Berkshires !)

With so much to do packed into tiny towns that are just minutes from each other so you can explore Great Barrington, Stockbridge, and Lenox, too! (Stockbridge is in the middle of GB and Lenox.)

2. Manchester, Vermont

Why it’s on the list: Can you say cute and quaint?! A beautiful southern VT location that offers skiing, amazing hikes and trails, lots of shopping and streets for strolling, and historic sites to visit.

Experience the romance, beauty, and quaintness of Manchester! Manchester is a town in southern Vermont that’s packed with top-rated places to eat, shop, explore, and unwind.

I love that this town is only 2.5 hours away from me in central Connecticut but you still get that quintessential Vermont feel without a 4-hour drive.

Here’s a post I wrote about a pet-friendly Airbnb/Vrbo stay I love that’s right near Manchester! With the most amazing mountain views. 😱⛰

Manchester, Vermont is the ideal location to take in the magic of the snowy winter season and especially during the holidays if you can go in December. The Shires’ Holiday Inn Tours , a favorite of many residents and tourists, are self-guided tours through some of the best lodging establishments in Vermont all decked out in their holiday best. 🎄🎄

And if you’re feeling in the mood to adventure, I loved the hike up to Lye Brook Falls hiding right in the center of Manchester.

Top Winter Activities in Manchester, Vermont:

3. woodstock, vermont.

Why it’s on the list: “When you visit Woodstock, you’ll uncover a place that’s brimming with rural heritage and tranquil beauty that flows through a small-town community. Local farmers, artists, craftspeople, and purveyors capture the spirit of Woodstock’s village, inspiring visitors to discover the creative treasures that lay waiting.” ~woodstockvt.com

A classic Vermont town that must be on our list! Located a bit further north than Manchester and east of Killington, Woodstock is home to the only national park in Vermont and three historic covered bridges.

This town feels untouched by modern civilization. Aside from the small downtown with the cutest shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes to walk around – you won’t find (or at least I didn’t) a big box or chain store here.

And if you’re celebrating something special or want the ultimate Woodstock experience, check out the Woodstock Inn & Resort . It has its own cross-country/nordic ski center with 27 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. (Availability & prices here ). (Be sure to pop in and see it even if you don’t stay there! 🙂 They have a full spa as well.)

4. Litchfield, Connecticut

Why it’s on the list: Designated as a National Historic Landmark District in 1968, Litchfield is a well-preserved example of a typical late 18th-century New England village. There’s so much to do packed into this quaint New England town I wrote a post about 31 fun things to do in Litchfield !

Litchfield was named a top 20 getaway in New England by Travel + Leisure Magazine: “A small town that more than carries its weight on the history, charm, and scenic beauty fronts.

This picture-book spot in rural western Connecticut (birthplace of Revolutionary leader Ethan Allen and abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe) has an oak-shaded town green and hundreds of historic buildings.” ~travelandleisure.com

I lived here for several years. It’s truly a quintessential New England town that becomes extra cozy and charming in winter!

Between the town green established in 1720, the meetinghouse from 1829 and the shops and highly rated restaurants casting glows from their windows as the sunsets – how could you not want to see it all covered in snow! Or at least see it with holiday decorations and twinkling lights.

Be sure to walk down North Street, across from the green, with its mega historic homes (homes of Revolutionary War Colonels). It was my favorite place to walk when I lived here, wondering about the lives and decor within one of these old, historic mansions. The whole town is very walkable!

If planning a trip to Litchfield, here’s a link to a post I wrote about the best inns to stay in Litchfield County !

5. Kent, Connecticut

Why it’s on the list: “A superb balance of old and new, quaint and chic, old-fashioned and avante garde . Owner-operated shops offer stylish and eclectic goods from home and abroad. Restaurants that serve inventive dishes from local ingredients.

Galleries feature quality contemporary and classic art. From the rolling river with its historic covered bridge to Kent Falls to the Appalachian Trail and hills made for biking, Kent offers varied of outdoor activities.” ~ctvisit.com

Another Connecticut gem to visit this winter! I would choose Kent if you’d like an active trip with lots of hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing.

If you’d like to plan a trip to Kent, check out my post about the best inns to stay in Litchfield County or my post about 24 fun activities in Kent !

6. Lincoln, New Hampshire

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Lincoln, New Hampshire is a quaint town that offers an adventurous and active winter getaway.

If you are looking for either a serious ski destination or one where you can work up a sweat cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, then Lincoln is the winter getaway for you.

Or maybe you want to sit all aboard on the first-in-the-world mountain-climbing cog railway ! The Cog has been making its dramatic three-hour round trip to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast (6288’) since 1869. Up to Mount Washington, that is!

For a luxurious stay, consider the Loon Mountain RiverWalk, which features a spa, winery tasting room, and an on-site restaurant.

7. Jackson and North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway was named the  #1 Ski Town in the United States  with thirteen ski areas located within a thirty-minute drive of the village. And also one of the  Top 10   Best Small Towns in America for Adventure  by readers of USA Today! It must be included on any top New England winter destinations list.

It is also a town named a top 20 getaway in New England by Travel + Leisure Magazine:

“These sister towns in New Hampshire’s pretty Mount Washington Valley make a popular getaway, thanks to their waterfall hikes, scenic drives, small-town shopping (Schartner Farms has a drive-up, honor-system jam stand — how cute is that?), and big-box outlets. 

On the highway between the two towns is Sunrise Shack, an old-school drive-in-restaurant turned roadside staple for truly enormous breakfasts.” ~travelandleisure.com

Running list of White Mountain holiday activities here .

8. Newport, Rhode Island

Another New England town that made Travel + Leisure’s best weekend getaways in New England list!

Newport, Rhode Island, is a historic coastal town that boasts magnificent Gilded Age mansions and a stunning waterfront.

“Think cobblestone streets lined with the glow of white lights, the glitter and gold of Gilded Age mansions bedecked with dozens of Christmas trees and thousands of poinsettias, and warm, quaint shops with candlelit windows. Truth be told, enchanting doesn’t quite begin to explain it.” discovernewport.org

During the winter season, the town takes on a magical atmosphere, with the mansions and their halls decked out in lights! Winter is a great time to take advantage of everything Newport has to offer with way fewer crowds.

9. Williamstown, Massachusetts

Called “ One of the loveliest communities in New England ” by the New York Times, Williamstown is a college town in the northern Berkshires.

Williamstown deserves a spot on this list separate from the southern Berkshire towns in number 1. An hour further north, it has its a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities to fill up a winter weekend and more.

10. Portland and Freeport, Maine

MarthaStewart.com named this area one of “The Most Charming Small Towns to Visit During the Christmas Season” . She says, “There’s simply no better place to do your Christmas shopping than in Freeport, Maine.”

Food lovers will delight in a winter getaway to Portland, Maine, where you can indulge in the town’s thriving culinary scene. From lighthouse exploration to ice skating and cross-country skiing, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this charming coastal city.

Portland is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters to explore.

I hope you enjoyed this list of the best winter winter getaways in New England!

There’s truly a winter getaway for everyone here; charming towns to romantic escapes, thrilling winter sports or adventurous winter vacations.

The in and outdoor activities will leave you with not much time to sit and sip your hot cocoa! But you can choose to do more or less depending on how active you want to be on your winter vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to pack for a new england winter getaway .

You’ll want to pack the essentials so you can stay warm and comfortable and not dread walking around outside or leaving your cozy inn!

I have a whole post detailing what to wear when walking or hiking in cold weather . Use that to pack the essentials if you’re planning on being outside a lot on your trip.

Here’s a list of a few essentials:

Waterproof boots (especially if you plan to snowshoe or hike!)

Fleece or wool hat

• Winter jacket

Fleece lined mittens

• Sunscreen (the winter sun can be strong especially if reflecting on the snow!)

What is the best thing about winter in New England?

Growing up and living here all of my life, I think the best thing about New England winter is its charm and wide range of activities! From world-class mountains for skiing in Vermont and New Hampshire to visiting the Newport Mansions.

Just strolling and admiring the quaint downtown villages decorated in lights is one of my favorite things about winter vacations in New England.

I also love warming up by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing and then enjoying a hot meal, latte, or hot chocolate at one of the amazing restaurants in the area!

Where can New Yorkers vacation in the winter?

Residents of NYC may prefer to head to southern areas like Litchfield County in CT or southern Vermont (Manchester).

Where can I find the best adventure-filled winter getaways in New England?

As mentioned in this list the best winter getaways in New England are primarily in:

• the Berkshires in Massachusetts (Stockbridge and Williamstown)
• Litchfield County in Connecticut (Kent and Litchfield)
• Woodstock, Vermont
• Portland or Freeport, Maine
• White Mountain towns like Lincoln or North Conway, New Hampshire
• Newport, Rhode Island

What are some romantic winter escapes in New England?

I think the most romantic winter spots in New England would be Woodstock, Vermont, and Litchfield, Connecticut! Get a room at an inn with a fireplace and you’ll be all set. 😍

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Adventures in New England

A local's guide to savoring the history, culture, food and nature of the Northeast USA

20 Wickedly Festive Things to Do in New England in Winter

Winter is one of the best times to be in New England. The area is a wonderland of snow-covered mountains and perfectly decorated, charming towns. Whether you are looking for an active, historical getaway, or a Christmasy escape, New England is the place to experience winter. Here are the best winter activities in New England and the best winter New England getaways.

Table of Contents

1. Take a   Journey to the North Pole.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jamie Italiane-Decubellis ✈️ (@dailyadventuresofme)

This Polar Express train ride in North Conway or Lincoln, New Hampshire, is closest your family will get to visit Santa at the North Pole, short of an actual trip there. (My family did get to the nearest spot Santa in the US in an epic journey to Utqiagvik, Alaska .)

We have visited many Polar Express train rides, but this was the most magical and will make even the most skeptical of children believe. A trip here is a must-do at least once for your family. And to make the deal even better, New Hampshire is one of the best places in New England for winter vacation getaways.

Read on for more about things to do in Lincoln, NH .

2. Celebrate Christmas at the Newport Mansions.

3. See the Nutcracker Ballet.

4. go to a christmas tree lighting..

The Ocean House in Watch Hill, RI, is always a great place to visit, as it is a beautiful hotel right on the water, and their Annual Tree Lighting is a class act. The entire hotel lobby is decked out for the holidays. There are cocoa and cookies, and then Santa arrives to live music. Better yet, it is free!

5. Go skiing!

A great way to take advantage of the snow is by doing some fun winter sports. In Rhode Island, we ski, snowboard, and tube at Yawgoo Valley in Exeter, RI.  It is a small mountain which makes it well-suited for kids to learn to ski. When we want an actual ski holiday, we head to New Hampshire  or Vermont!

6. Try your luck with snowboarding

We also go to Loon Mountain in New Hampshire, a full-scale vacation site with many more trails. You can also snowshoe, snowmobile, and cross-country ski.

7. Go back in history to experience the holidays.

New England is full of rich American history, and winter is a fun time to learn more about it. There are Christmas tours available in Salem, MA, and Newport, RI. Old Sturbridge Village in MA, a historical reenactment colonial village, has many Christmas-themed activities .

8. Try some cross-country skiing.

You can do some excellent cross-country skiing right outside of your super cute room at  Darby Field Inn . I have stayed there and loved it. It is closed through December 2021 for renovations.

9. Sled down a hill.

You can find a good sledding hill in most New England towns or head to a ski mountain to try some inner tubing.

10. Check out a l iving nativity .

Complete with animals, this is always a treat. Here are a couple of options: The Cluny School in Newport, RI, and St. Paul’s Church in Wickford, RI.

11. See a light display.

The Shrine at La Salette has more lights (300,000) and creches than I have seen anywhere outside of Disney. Even better, it’s free!

You can experience an outdoor holiday carnival in Connecticut at Lake Compounce’s Christmas Lights or drive-through lights across from Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts.

12. Visit the artificial Ice Castles in Lincoln, NH.

Together with slides and lights, these artificial castles of ice are a thing of beauty. They are near Loon Mountain and Santa’s Village in North Conway, so you easily include these activities on a weekend trip to New Hampshire.

13. Take in a boat parade.

New England’s location on the Atlantic Ocean offers excellent chances to see boats dressed up for Christmas in Illuminated Boat Parades. Here are a couple to check out: Newport, RI , and Mystic, CT.

14. Go to a winter Waterfire.

Even Waterplace Park in Providence, RI, gets decked out in its Christmas best for a WaterFire to benefit the Providence Rescue Mission . WaterFire is one of my favorite things in Rhode Island, and you can make it a great night with some pre-fire ice skating  and dinner.

Read on for My Guide to Get the Most out of Providence’s Waterfire.

15. See how maple syrup is made.

Read my whole post about sugar houses in New England.

16. Tag and cut your own Christmas Tree.

We go to Big John Leyden’s in West Greenwich, RI, but Christmas tree farms are all over New England.

17. Spend a winter weekend in a New England country inn.

18. Take a hike through the snow.

We love to snowshoe through the forests in Maine at  Fox Carlton Pond ,  where we stay in their beautiful small lodge. They have snowshoes and can schedule excursions.

19. Get a thrill on some of New England’s snowmobile trails!

Snowmobiling is another excursion Fox Carlton Pond can schedule for you. There are also many snowmobile trails near Woodstock, Vermont, a perfectly darling quintessential New England town.

20. Enjoy a sleigh ride through the snowy fields of New England.

Bonus: new york city borders connecticut.

Not actually in New England, but a must-do at Christmastime, NYC never disappoints. The lights, decorations, roasting chestnuts, store windows, carriage rides are so much of what I love about Christmas. Check out my article about why I love New York at Christmas so much .

To check out how to celebrate in my home state, visit How Rhode Island Celebrates the Holidays . Have a beautiful New England Winter!

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7 thoughts on “20 Wickedly Festive Things to Do in New England in Winter”

I would never have thought of visiting New England in the winter – always thought too cold. Love summer and autumn though. But it looks fun – all wintery and Christmassy. I’ll give it a go next time 🙂

You had me at polar express then fully sold me with the ice castles!

Winter in New England sounds wonderful! I would love to try out snow sports like skiing and snowboarding and proper sledding (I’ve only been sledding on Southern snow where you quickly uncover the grass lol)

Sledding is the best!!

I love the idea of a boat parade. That would be a special experience for me as we have nothing to compare in my landlocked area!

We really love living by the shore and take advantage of it whenever we can.

Oh, you got me at snow-covered mountains and perfectly decorated towns. 🙂 And those Ice Castles look just breathtaking!

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Things to Do in Lincoln, New Hampshire in All Four Seasons

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The Best Things to Do in New England in the Winter

By Paul Rubio

While New England is typically considered a summer or fall destination, the region has plenty going on in the winter , too. And we’re not just talking about the ski slopes of Vermont and New Hampshire. In fact, the best things to do in New England in the winter are wide-ranging, from more predictable pursuits like eating and drinking, to unanticipated opportunities like birdwatching, skiing by the ocean, and surfing in the snow. Here, 11 ways to embrace the cold and fall in love with New England’s less-popular season.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This gallery was last published in December 2019. It has been updated with new information.

Head to Vermont’s family-friendly adventure hub

Revel in glorious, snow-filled family fun at Stowe Vermont’s charming resort and lifestyle community, Spruce Peak . With multiple guest stay options, from The Lodge at Spruce Peak to grand private residences and mountain cabins, Spruce Peak is a self-contained adventure destination, where snowboarding, horseback riding, ice climbing, snowshoeing, and, of course, excellent skiing—at all levels—headline the agenda. Kids love the outdoor ice-skating rink and the adventure center with an indoor rock-climbing wall, while adults can enjoy whiskey-paired dining at the WhistlePig Pavilion, and treatments at the spa. Dogs are also warmly welcomed on property and can partake in many outdoor activities—including happy hour in the lobby.

Dine and drink in an igloo

A few years back, insulated igloos were novelties for outdoor drinking and dining in winter; this year, they’re everywhere—and in various forms. One of our favorite igloo set-ups can be found at Boston’s premiere rooftop bar, Lookout Rooftop , with panoramic views of the snow-capped Boston skyline and icy Boston Harbor. We also love the five exclusive-use igloos at the  Cliff House  in Ogunquit, Maine, featuring the menu from the resort’s restaurant, Nubb’s Lobster Shack, alongside prime ocean views. Deviating from the standard,  Eataly Boston  opens a seasonal, outdoor restaurant in January 2021 called Baita, inspired by the ski culture of the Italian Alps and serving up hearty Northern Italian cuisine in 20 individually heated greenhouses, each of which seats up to six. 

Go dogsledding with a clear conscience

There’s no shortage of mushing activities throughout New England during winter, but none warms our hearts like Eden Ethical Dogsledding in Eden Mills in northern Vermont, run by international sprint sled dog champion Jim Blair, where the welfare of the dogs is top priority. Meet and cuddle the “Un-chained Gang”—a group of more than 35 free-range, highly pampered sledding dogs—before they whisk you along an extensive trail network paved exclusively for sledding. Eden Mills is a scenic drive and a reasonable distance from all of northern Vermont’s principal winter destinations: Stowe, Jay Peak, Smuggler's Notch, and Burlington. If you’re in New Hampshire, consider a 90-minute or three-hour sled ride with Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel near White Mountain National Forest in Jefferson, New Hampshire. Many of the 80 sweet pups at Muddy Paw are second chance or rescue sled dogs.

Enjoy greater Boston’s rising food scene

This winter, imbibe on Greek wines and feast on Aegean small plates in an intimate, high design setting at newcomer Krasi Meze & Wine in Boston’s Back Bay. At The Dial in Cambridge, noted chef Justin Urso serves dishes including moqueca (a Brazilian shellfish stew), Caribbean-inspired jerk quail, buñuelos (Colombian cheese fritters), and kinilaw (coconut rich, Filipino ceviche). For Boston’s freshest raw selections—not to mention the city’s best lobster roll—we recommend the tried-and-true Row 34 . And for a fun night of tiki drinks and superb Asian small plates, reserve in advance at Uni , a contemporary izakaya helmed by Tony Messina, a James Beard Best Chef winner.

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

Ice fish and snowmobile around Moosehead Lake

Maine’s largest lake is a must for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and taking in the winter wonderland of the Great North Woods. On the lake’s western reaches, The Birches Resort has all types of accommodations from rustic cabins to private homes—even basic yurts—and is an ideal home base. Between January and late March, head out to one of the colorful ice shacks on the frozen lake while you wait for trout, perch, bass, and landlocked salmon to bite. Rent a snowmobile and choose your own adventure on the many trails around, including the 100-plus mile Moosehead Lake Trail, which circumvents the lake, or the trail to Mount Katahdin, Maine’s tallest mountain. These trails are two small-but-mighty representatives of Maine's incredible 4,000-mile snowmobile Interconnected Trail System.

Go birdwatching

Surrounded by Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 11-mile barrier island Plum Island in Massachusetts is home to 800-plus species of plants, animals, and birds. Winter is an excellent time for viewing birdlife like bald eagles and snowy owls, which come down to New England from the Arctic to mate. Head south to the lower Connecticut River in February and March to up your chances of seeing snow-speckled bald eagles, which feed and mate along the river. Reserve a naturalist-led, winter wildlife eagle cruise aboard the heated RiverQuest , which leaves from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex. Or head north to Acadia National Park in Maine, where Harlequin ducks, snowy owls, and black-capped chickadees spend their winter. Schoodic Point, on the tip of the Park’s Schoodic Peninsula, is a great place to set up the tripod and practice your photography skills.

Visit a sugar house

During a short window from late February to early April, New England’s prolific maple trees ooze sweet sap, beginning the annual maple harvest. Head to one of the region’s hundreds of sugar houses or sugar shacks to watch fire-fueled sap be converted into maple—and then pour far too much of it over a stack of fresh pancakes at restaurants like The Red Bucket Sugar Shack in Worthington, Massachusetts (scheduled to reopen for the season at the end of February 2021). For a superlative sugar house rush, head to the Granite State for the annual New Hampshire Maple Weekend (March 20-21, 2021) during which dozens of working sugarhouses typically closed to the public open for tours and tastings. If you can’t make that exact weekend, look for other sugar shack events throughout the rest of March, New Hampshire’s Maple Month. At The Rock Estates in Bethlehem, for example, take a horse drawn carriage through the snow to tap the trees, and then work alongside a fourth-generation sugar maker.

Wander through an ice castle

Every year, a frozen fairy tale comes to life at Ice Castles in Lincoln, New Hampshire, as professional ice artists configure hundreds of thousands of icicles into extravagant castle-like formations. Kids love exploring this frozen world of ice-carved tunnels, crawl spaces, and mazes; ogling colorful, illuminated ice sculptures; and ambling along a quarter-mile long winter light walk through the forest.

Discover farm-to-table greatness

In the past, New Englanders had to trek to West Concord, Massachusetts, for a taste of the region’s supreme farm-to-table ingenuity at Wood Hills Table . But since the opening of Wood Hills Pier 4 in November 2019, food lovers need go no further than Boston’s booming Seaport District for innovative creations by chef Charlie Foster, who uses grass-fed meats, raw dairy, cheese, fresh herbs, honey, and delectable produce from restaurant owner Kristin Canty’s private farm-to-produce gastronomic magic. Plenty of sustainable seafood is also thrown into the mix, including squid ink casarecce topped with lobster and crab ragu, and line-caught swordfish accompanied by squash and brown butter, kale, marcona almonds, and pomegranate. All this to say, if there’s one restaurant to try in New England, this is it.

Ski and slide by the ocean

Though the slopes may be far more impressive in Vermont , at Camden Snow Bowl in Maine, you can peer over the Atlantic from the summit before charging down the slopes. Even better is the mountain’s ultimate adrenaline rush: a 440-foot-long wooden toboggan chute, which is open to the public on weekends outside the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, which runs from February 5 to 7 in 2021. Of all the great things to do in new England in the winter, this just might be your kids' favorite. 

Attend America’s longest-running wine and food festival

The wine and food festival that started it all, the Boston Wine Festival , may look a bit different this year, but it’s game on for the 33rd edition (January 15 to March 27, 2021), in which the best from Napa Valley, Burgundy, and Piedmont take over the Boston Harbor Hotel for winemaker-hosted dinners and tastings. Don’t expect grand receptions, brunches, or seminars this year. Instead, planners are working on 22 highly informative, socially distanced, wine-paired dinners held on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the winter. Tickets are à la carte, so attend as many or few events as you’d like, though we recommend booking far in advance for the most coveted dinners, like the famed Battle of the Cabs, and events hosted by famed wineries Joseph Drouhin, Grgich Hills Estate, and Zenato.

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7 Best Winter Getaways in New England

Escape the Snow and Cold for a Spell When Cabin Fever Strikes

TripSavvy / Kim Knox Beckius

When the cold winds howl and the snow blankets New England, New Englanders and winter-loving visitors can be in their glory. They can hit the slopes, lace on skates, and feel the cold air blow by them as they whip along on a snowmobile. But if being chilly and damp is a far cry from your preferred winter pastime, there is still a lot to do indoors throughout the long New England winter. In the northeast corner of the country, there are many places to go where you may just forget that it's winter at all, even on the coldest days.

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens

You can check your coat at the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens, located near Yankee Candle Village in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, because butterflies like it warm. The steamy, 8,000-square-foot glass conservatory is home to about 4,000 butterflies from all over the world. "Flight attendants" are on hand to identify the various species for you and to help you check for hitchhikers when you leave. Magic Wings is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. in the winter, but hours are extended until 6 p.m. in the summer.

Great Wolf Lodge New England

The Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park resort in New England is an ideal getaway option for families who want to escape winter for a while. The resort's 68,000-square-foot water slide playground is always a tropical 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Other on-site amusements include the MagiQuest live-action adventure game, Howlin' Timbers Play Park, the Howlers Peak Ropes Course, miniature golf, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a Build-A-Bear Workshop. Once you check-in, everything you need to pretend you're far away from the New England winter is under one roof.

Elizabeth Park Greenhouse

You may rub your eyes and blink in disbelief when you leave behind the snow and enter the greenhouse at Elizabeth Park . The 100-year-old greenhouses at America's oldest municipal rose garden in Hartford, Connecticut , bring spring to life with rows of colorful flowers, even as winter lingers on outside. Inside the warm confines of these ​indoor gardens, you'll be treated to the sweet scents and sights of flowers in bloom. The greenhouses are open year-round and are free to enter.

Cape Codder Resort and Spa

The 8,200-square-foot indoor water complex at this family resort in Hyannis on Cape Cod may just fool you into believing it's the middle of summer. While the kids play in the waterfalls and whoosh down the two winding slides, you can close your eyes and ride the waves, picturing yourself at the shore on a sunny day. Or, let your achey joints soak in the giant, tension-easing whirlpool. Then, head outdoors to the Cape Codder's ​year-round outdoor heated pool. Right on the premises, you'll also find a Hearth-n-Kettle Restaurant, which is perfect for family dining, and the Grand Cru Wine Bar & Grill if you're looking for something more upscale.

Mohegan Sun Casino

Mohegan Sun

At Mohegan Sun , the casino complex in southeastern Connecticut , it's easy to forget that it's winter outside. You can spend many hours playing at the gaming tables or feasting at one of several outstanding restaurants . The decor of the casino represents the four seasons. As you walk through the different casinos, pay attention to the details of the design in the Casino of the Earth, visit the dome and waterfall in the Casino of the Sky, and try your luck at the slot machines and 33-table poker room.

SkyVenture New Hampshire

Plenty of intrepid surfers ride New England's waves in the winter, but why would you surf in the icy cold ocean when you can surf indoors? At SkyVenture New Hampshire , which is also a good place to try indoor skydiving, you can also catch waves at North America's largest indoor surfing facility. Surf's Up New Hampshire is an 11,000-square-foot, all-season paradise that features a programmable SurfStream from American Wave Machines churning up gnarly, 32-foot waves.

Okemo Valley Golf Club

Don't let the snow stop your golf game. At the Okemo Valley Golf Club's Indoor Golf Training Center in Vermont, you don't have to worry about your golf clubs or your skills getting rusty. You may just be able to knock a few strokes off your handicap with the instructional programs offered at Okemo. Affordable daily rates are available for the Academy's Swing Stations and 9-hole practice putting green, and the Full Swing Golf Simulator is available for an hourly fee. And because it's located at a ski resort, you can let your snow-loving travel companions hit the trails while you get your work out inside.

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Best Winter Weekend Getaways in New England

New England has an incredible list of recreation, tourism, and scenery during the winter months. From skiing at some of the best mountain resorts in North America to antiquing or simply cozying up to the fireplace next to your loved one, the region offers fun and adventure for all ages. If you don’t have enough time to get away for a full week (or more), consider a weekend getaway to one of these great hotels, inns, resorts or bed and breakfasts. 

Glen, New Hampshire

What to do: The hunt for fresh powder and corduroy are over. Head to the White Mountains for epic skiing at one of Mount Washington Valley’s 13 ski resorts and cross-country centers. Explore the towns and villages of the area like Bartlett, Glen, Jackson and North Conway. Take an informative and fun culinary class from an experienced chef. 

Getting there: Glen, New Hampshire, is about a two-hour drive north from Concord, via Interstate 93 North and U.S. Highway 302. The town is 80 miles north of Dover, New Hampshire, via State Route 16 North. It is about two hours from Portland, Maine, via U.S. Highway 302 and State Highway 25.

Where to stay: The 12-room Bernerhof Inn, Bed & Breakfast has been completely remodeled from top to bottom and has plush guestrooms with sophisticated décor and state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel’s Black Bear Pub and Martini Bar offer European-inspired fare along with craft beer and select wines and cocktails. Sign up for a culinary class, or plan to attend a children’s seminar with your little chef. For a more romantic escape, book a couple’s massage or a soothing aromatherapy foot bath or other pampering treatment. 

Lenox, Massachusetts

What to do: Visit the iconic Berkshires , hit the ski slopes at several nearby resorts, visit local wineries and orchards, explore the amazing Green Mountains, or take in a live performance or shop at the many retail outlet stores around Lenox. 

Getting there: Lenox is just a little more than a two-hour drive from metro Boston along Interstate 90 West. It is about 75 miles northwest of Hartford, Connecticut, via Interstate 91 North and then Interstate 90 West. You can also get to Lenox is under an hour from Albany, New York, via Interstate 90 East.   

Where to stay: The Yankee Inn in Lenox is a Berkshire landmark hotel that offers seven types of lodging, including a deluxe FireSpa suite and a king canopy fireplace suite. There are also standard rooms available with a king, two queens, or two double beds. The family-friendly hotel has indoor and outdoor pools. 

Westbrook, Connecticut

What to do: Make your way to a beachfront resort in southeastern Connecticut near Westbrook or Old Lyme. There are plenty of amazing dining experiences and lots of history to explore. Tour the Lynde Point Lighthouse or the Gen. William Hart House, the Meigs Point Nature Center , escape for a glass of wine at Chamard Vineyards , or take a winter stroll along one of the area’s many sandy beaches.

Getting there: Westbrook, Connecticut, is about a 50-minute drive from downtown Hartford via Interstate 91 South and Connecticut Highway 9 South. It’s only 28 miles from downtown New Haven, via Interstate 95 North. Westbrook is 67 miles from Stamford via Interstate 95 North. 

Where to stay: Kick back on the Connecticut shore with a weekend stay at the Water’s Edge Resort and Spa. This New England beachfront resort is a perfect home base for exploring the shoreline and all southeastern Connecticut. It’s perfect for a family getaway or a romantic trip because its right on the beach and has luxury guest rooms with views of Long Island Sound. Dattilo Fine Italian offers creative a bold menu at the resort, and the Seaview Bistro and Sunset Bar & Grill both offer a relaxing-yet-intimate dining experience.  

Chatham, Massachusetts

What to do: Explore the classic seaside at Cape Cod. Walk along spectacular private beaches and dine on traditional New England cuisine like fresh lobster and crab cakes. Explore the seaside and take a lighthouse tour , plan a boating excursion on Cape Cod Bay, or spend the afternoon shopping at a local boutique. Getting there: Chatham is slightly under a two-hour drive from Boston, via Route 3 South and U.S. Route 6 East. Providence is about 90 miles from Chatham, via I-195 East, U.S. Route 1A and U.S. Route 6 East. The town is about two-and-a-half hours from Worcester, Massachusetts via Interstate 195 East and U.S. Route 6 East.  Where to stay: The Chatham Bars Inn has been greeting guests since 1914 and offers 217 beautifully adorned guest rooms. The hotel is often recognized as one of the top hotels on Cape Cod for its award-winning service and amenities. Dine at four on-site restaurants that feature delectable farm-to-table and pier-to-plate dishes amid glorious water views. The inn also offers relaxing spa treatments on-site, and a relaxing heated pool and hot tub courtyard. 

Stowe, Vermont

What to do: Stowe is largely considered the best ski resort in New England. Pack your gear and head to the powdery Green Mountains of Vermont and get your weekend fix of skiing or snowboarding. Spend your days skiing and hit up one of the local breweries for après-ski. There’s ample terrain for newbies or those just getting the hang of it. But there’s still plenty of steep East Coast hills that are more challenging for seasoned skiers and riders.  Getting there: Burlington International Airport is nearby and offers several arrivals and departures daily from major cities. Stowe is about two and a half hours from Concord, New Hampshire, via Interstate 89 North. It is about two and a half hours from Keene, New Hampshire, via Interstate 91 North and Interstate 89 North.  Where to stay: The Trapp Family Lodge sits on a 2,500-acre mountain hillside and is inspired by the family from “The Sound of Music” movie. The classic Austrian-inspired inn is only five minutes from Stowe Mountain Resort. Other amenities include a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness classes and yoga. Dine at one of four European-style restaurants on-site or make your way to the Von Trapp Brewery for a home-brewed Austrian lager or other libation.

Newport, Rhode Island

What to do: The New England port town of Newport, Rhode Island, has been a hub for sailing and shipbuilding for more than 300 years, and there are ample history and sights to take in. The Newport Cliff Walk is a walking trail overlooking the ocean, and the families will love the Roger Williams Park Zoo . Other key destinations include the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge , Point Judith Lighthouse , and Culinary Arts Museum .  Getting there: Newport is about 71 miles from downtown Boston, via Interstate 93 South and Interstate 95 South. It’s about 85 miles from Hartford via Connecticut Highway 9 South and Interstate 95 North. Newport is about 60 miles from Plymouth, Massachusetts via Interstate 195 West.  Where to stay: The majestic Castle Hill Inn sits on a 40-acre peninsula on Newport’s famous west end. The secluded oceanfront resort is perfect for an intimate romantic retreat or a family-bonding weekend. The seaside hotel is near antique shopping, boating, fishing, ice skating, lighthouse tours, sailing and whale watching. Guests love the locally sourced seasonal menu that’s chock-full of creative items.

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20 Best Weekend Getaways in New England

From charming small towns to mountain escapes, these are the best places in New England for a weekend trip.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

With prettier-than-a-picture countrysides, cliff-lined coasts under the watchful beams of centuries-old lighthouses, and countless small towns to stumble upon, New England is a region that merits a lifetime of getaways, weekend or otherwise. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from the city or a romantic trip, here are 20 of the best weekend getaways in New England.

Block Island, Rhode Island

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With its towering bluffs, plains filled with native shrubs, and grand Victorian-style hotel , Block Island looks like it could really be in England. The cedar-shingled saltbox houses are what clue you back to the fact that we’re in New England, not some wind-swept corner of the U.K. Located 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, this quintessential seaside getaway is just as much about cruising down country lanes and walking through open heathland as it is visiting the beach.

Mad River Valley, Vermont

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Below the famous Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas, the Mad River Valley is a particularly pretty nook of Vermont. And that’s on top of a surprisingly glam history (Sugarbush was once dubbed “Mascara Mountain” by Vogue due to all the fashionable model types frequenting its slopes). The skiing’s still good around these parts, but there’s also fun off-the-slopes stuff like mountain biking, farm stand shopping, and summer concerts.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

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Reverence for this 50-square-mile fleck off the coast of Massachusetts runs deep, especially when it comes to summer getaways. But forget the cars and chain restaurants that clog your typical beach scene. Instead, hop on a bike or island shuttle to visit historic lighthouses (the still-in-use Brant Point dates back to 1746!), grand homes built for whaling captains, and laid-back beaches. Refuel every few hours with a lobster roll or perfectly prepared bay scallops before spending the night at a waterfront resort like the White Elephant Nantucket .

Newport, Rhode Island

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Fans of HBO’s Gilded Age owe themselves a trip to Newport, the summer vacay spot of choice for the late-19th-century elite. Take a stroll down the Cliff Walk to see Newport’s lavish mansions on one side and the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rocks on the other. The 3.5-mile path works up an appetite, so you’ll be ready to feast like a Vanderbilt: do the (BYOB!) brunch at Cru Cafe or go big with lobster mac ‘n’ cheese at local landmark, Brick Alley Pub.

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

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City folk looking for a slow pace and gorgeous scenic views find lots (and lots) to love in Sugar Hill. The sight of brilliant fall colors or fields blanketed in deep purple lupines — set against New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountains — is like a massage for your optic nerves. At Harman’s Cheese & Country Store, scoop up crackers and a hunk of aged cheddar to stash in your pack before hiking to Bridal Veil Falls (via the family-friendly Coppermine Trail) or summiting Mount Lafayette (Skookumchuck Trail is a toughie, but it’s well rated by hikers). 

Camden, Maine

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Often called one of the most beautiful small towns in the U.S. , Camden is a popular filming location for TV shows and Hollywood films. After enjoying a big bowl of haddock chowder on the harbor, peep the handsome Queen Anne-style houses in the historic district or make your way up to the top of Mount Battie, where the view inspired Maine native Edna St. Vincent Millay to write one of her finest poems. And remember, it’s not a trip to Maine without some quality antiquing: peruse the treasures inside Antiques at 10 Mechanic.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

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Think of it this way: getting there is half the fun. Sure, the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard, sister island to Nantucket, can be a bit of a test for landlubbers, but once you disembark, you’ll find a treasure trove of seaside villages, luxurious hotels , bike paths, and A+ lobster rolls. First stop: Waterside Market, where yummy breakfast sandwiches are served all day (or opt for lobster salad on brioche straight out of the gate), then grab a cab or bike over to Oak Bluffs for beach time and frozen drinks at Nancy’s. Spend a day in pristine little Edgartown, with its indie shops (Edgartown Books is a real treat, as is the hidden cafe behind it), raw bars, Greek Revival mansions, and charming boutique hotels like Faraway Martha's Vineyard .

Lakes Region, New Hampshire

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Woods, rocky summits, and hundreds of lakes and ponds set the scene for this ridiculously pretty area surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake. Set in the White Mountain foothills, the region seduces leaf-peepers, walkers, boaters, cyclists, and off-roaders in search of abundant outdoor activities.

It’d be a shame not to get on the water in the warmer months, so hop aboard one of M/S Mount Washington ’s daily scenic cruises for a mimosa and postcard-worthy views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers have 28 miles of trails to explore at Castle in the Clouds and boundless views to enjoy at the top of Belknap Mountain, the highest peak in the area.

Woodstock, Vermont

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Dotted with old covered bridges, quaint cafes, and Victorian homes, Woodstock is the epitome of an idyllic New England town. At Billings Farm and Museum, say hi to the Jersey cows and draft horses, enjoy a maple sundae, and grab some smoked cheddar to go (it’ll make a tasty trail snack). Prue and Paul fans: Hop over to the neighboring town of Norwich to channel your inner Great British Baking Show contestant with a pie- and-tart-making class at King Arthur Baking Company.

Great Barrington, Massachusetts

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Part of the Berkshires, Great Barrington looks straight out of a Louisa May Alcott novel. Everywhere you look are storybook old buildings now housing bakeries, upscale grocers, and farm-to-fork restaurants. (During the holidays, the town looks like the real-life version of a snow globe.) See what’s going on at Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, a 1905 theater hosting everything from classic flicks to big-name bands.

Bar Harbor, Maine

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Once upon a time (in the late 1800s), Bar Harbor was a summer oasis for the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Astors, and other VIP members of society looking to beat the heat. The appeal of this place takes no imagination; Bar Harbor is a quaint small town on Frenchman Bay and a gateway to Acadia National Park. Take a warm-up stroll along Bar Harbor’s shore path before diving into moody Acadia, where rocky shores and 150 miles of hiking trails await.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Drive about an hour north of Boston, and you’ll find the darling town of Portsmouth. Kick off a walking tour at Market Square, hit the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, and dedicate a couple of hours to Strawbery Banke Museum — an outdoor museum with historic structures and costumed actors bringing three centuries of history to life. Reward yourself with the oyster happy hour and a cold local Smuttynose at Row 34 before moving on to dinner at Black Trumpet, a bistro and wine bar.

North Adams, Massachusetts

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Art lovers have streamed into North Adams since 1999 when Mass MoCA opened in a previously abandoned 19th-century mill. Bed down at the art-filled Hotel Downstreet or The Porches Inn, a series of Victorian homes that once housed textile workers. The draws of this small Berkshires city don’t end with Sol Lewitt’s wall drawings and Michael Oatman’s installation art, on view at Mass MoCA. Outdoor options include seeing the continent’s only natural white marble arch at Natural Bridge State Park and hiking Mount Greylock, the highest mountain in Massachusetts. 

Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly may not have quite the vacay clout as Newport or the Vineyard, yet the coastal town balloons in the summer with beachgoers looking to hit Narragansett Bay and Misquamicut State Beach. For a quintessential New England weekend getaway, spend at least an afternoon in the ocean-view neighborhood of Watch Hill, visiting its 1850s lighthouse and walking along the pristine beach at the Napatree Point Conservation Area.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Journey to the farthest-flung tip of Cape Cod, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the area’s best stretches of sand, cool boutiques and art galleries, and an enchantingly funky and bohemian vibe. This LGBTQ-friendly town has something for every mood, whether it’s drag karaoke, dance parties, and pub crawls that strike your fancy or catching the sunset on Herring Cove Beach.

Jackson and North Conway, New Hampshire

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These sister towns in New Hampshire’s pretty Mount Washington Valley make a popular getaway, thanks to their waterfall hikes, scenic drives, small-town shopping scene (Schartner Farms has a drive-up, honor-system jam stand — how cute is that?), and big-box outlets. 

On the highway between the two towns is Sunrise Shack, an old-school drive-in restaurant that's now a roadside staple for truly enormous breakfasts. After a summer swim at Echo Lake State Park or a challenging hike on Mount Chocorua, indulge in the biggest cone you’ve ever seen at Trails End Ice Cream.

Mystic, Connecticut

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History lovers looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway in New England will likely love this former shipbuilding hub. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a fascinating jumping-off point, with its million-plus artifacts depicting the town’s nautical life — you can even test out your sea legs on vessels like the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship that remains in the world today.

Appreciate the Long Island Sound and Fisher’s Island views at Bluff Point State Park and feast on some of the best seafood around at Oyster Club. Our perfect meal? Smoky Rhode Island clam chowder, dashi-buttery roasted oysters, and the homemade bucatini.

Montpelier, Vermont

Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, the country’s smallest state capital by population brims with opportunities for nature activities, from hiking up the 4,000-foot peak of Camel’s Hump to whitewater rafting on the Winooski River. Of course, no trip to this neck of the woods is complete without a taste of what it does best. At Morse Farm's and Bragg Farms' maple sugar houses, you can sample the Vermont specialty in the form of maple cookies, kettle corn, or “creemee” (Vermontese for soft serve).

Kennebunkport, Maine

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Like Mystic, Kennebunkport boomed as a shipbuilding hub during New England’s maritime heyday. The coastal town’s nautical vibe lives on, with glossy Italian-built yachts bobbing in the harbor and authentic schooners sailing toward the Atlantic. Kennebunkport swells in the summertime with New Englanders flocking to its beaches, but the town’s boutiques, cafes, and art galleries have year-round appeal.

Litchfield, Connecticut

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Litchfield is a small town that more than carries its weight on the history, charm, and scenic beauty fronts. This picture-book spot in rural western Connecticut (birthplace of Revolutionary leader Ethan Allen and abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe) has an oak-shaded town green and hundreds of historic buildings. The vast Topsmead State Forest is a favorite area for hiking and picnicking and was originally the summer estate (complete with a Cotswold-style cottage and formal gardens) of banking heiress Edith Morton Chase.

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The 20 Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in New England

These retreats are tailor-made for couples.

Want to stay in a former Vanderbilt mansion? Check into the Vanderbilt in Newport. Care for nothing but a week full of fabulous couple's massages? Head to the Mayflower Inn & Spa in rural Connecticut. Looking for a slice of Italy in the Berkshires? Put the Wheatleigh on your list. Absolutely love the beach? Take your pick of beautiful properties on Nantucket, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, or the coast of Rhode Island. Or prefer hundreds of acres of rolling hills and woods instead? Vermont and Connecticut are flush with stunning hotels on sprawling grounds.

Whatever your mood and whatever the occasion, whether it's an anniversary, a birthday, a holiday, or just because, here are 20 idyllic destinations for that couple's trip to take at any time of year (because romance need not be reserved just for Valentine's Day).

*As always, bear in mind Covid-19 travel restrictions and safety concerns.

Life House, Nantucket

Last summer, this gem of a boutique hotel opened in the center of the quintessential coastal town. Built in the former digs of the Century House, Nantucket's oldest continually operating inn, the new Life House, Nantucket has all that old world charm, but with upgraded amenities (think Le Labo bath products, rain showers, and Marshall speakers in the rooms). After an afternoon spent strolling around the town's cobblestone streets, settle into a nook in the garden for afternoon tea.

More: In the Thick of the Pandemic, Nantucket Reveals its Best Self

Winvian Farms, Connecticut

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Set on 113 acres of land in Connecticut's Litchfield Hills, Winvian Farm has 18 individually designed luxury cottages—take your pick of unique accommodations like a tree house, a rustic cottage, a helicopter room, or a forest-inspired suite. The Relais & Châteaux resort's own organic gardens supply the imaginative farm-to-table dining options at the restaurant, while the 5,000-square-foot spa is a haven for relaxation.

The Vanderbilt, Rhode Island

This historic property in Newport, now part of the Auberge Resorts portfolio, was originally built in 1909 by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, meaning you can claim bragging rights for staying in an actual Vanderbilt mansion. Live as they once did and book a classic 1920s car from the hotel to drive to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Breakers, the majestic Gilded Age "summer cottage" built by Alfred's father, Cornelius II—afterwards the hotel will prepare a romantic picnic. Prefer to stay on property and simply enjoy its views of Narragansett Bay? Opt for a cooking class, instead, or learn how to shuck oysters, then cozy up by the firepit in the garden for seaside s'mores.

White Barn Inn, Maine

The 27-room White Barn Inn, an Auberge Resort, in charming Kennebunkport (the Bush family compound is here) has luxury accommodations (stay in a standalone waterfront cottage for the ultimate in romance and privacy), a top-notch spa, and a AAA Five Diamond, Forbes Five Star restaurant. Plus, there are tons of activities and experiences to fill out the itinerary, including dog sledding (through March), chocolate making, a cocktail class, and three-course lobster feasts (every Thursday through April).

Twin Farms, Vermont

One of the most romantic and luxurious retreats in the world, Twin Farms is an all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux property set on 300 acres of bucolic woodlands in Barnard, Vermont. The 20 distinct accommodations all include a fireplace, toiletries blended specifically for the resort, and linens by Anichini and The Purists. Dining options are inspired by locally-grown, seasonal ingredients, with chef offerings changing daily. Wine lovers will particularly enjoy the property's 15,000-bottle cellar, where you can also arrange an intimate dining experience. Only guests over the age of 16 are allowed at the resort, which will no doubt add to the romantic vibes.

More : The Most Romantic Adults-Only Resorts in the World

The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Rhode Island

This elegant 20-room hotel housed in a former Gilded Age mansion on the famed Cliff Walk in Newport exudes romance. Each room is decorated with a different historical time period in mind—think Louis XVI, Georgian, Colonial, and, for Bridgerton fans, Regency . Cara, the Chanler's elegant restaurant, offers a three-course prix-fixe menu that includes delicacies like Wagyu beef, uni risotto, and white truffles.

Wheatleigh, Massachusetts

Old world charm meets modern luxury at the Wheatleigh in Lenox. The mansion, which dates back to 1893, was designed to look like a 16th-century Florentine palazzo, with surrounding landscaping created by Frederick Law Olmsted, the legend behind Central Park. The hotel today consists of 19 suites and guest rooms on 22 acres of gorgeous land in the Berkshires, along with exceptional amenities, spectacular food and wine, and top-notch service.

Ocean House, Rhode Island

The iconic five-star resort in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is the ultimate romantic getaway. Located on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic, the Relais & Châteaux property has 49 guest rooms and 18 suites along with multiple dining options and a 3,000 square-foot Center for Wine & Culinary Arts, where you can take wine and cooking classes. Take your pick of the countless spa treatments available at the award-winning OH! Spa to turn your stay into a rejuvenating luxury retreat and enjoy the hotel's robust itinerary of activities, from movie screenings and art tours to yoga and jazz brunches.

Chatham Bars Inn, Massachusetts

The romance of Cape Cod is at its finest at the historic Chatham Bars Inn. An island mainstay since 1914, the resort now has 217 rooms and lots of recreation, including tennis, golf, and sailing. There are four restaurants on the property, all of which excel at quintessential seaside fare—fresh fish, produce from the hotel's own farm, and local draft beers, all enjoyed with panoramic ocean views.

Mayflower Inn & Spa, Connecticut

This idyllic retreat is set on 58 acres of gardens and woodlands in Washington, Connecticut. The charming accommodations, outfitted with luxurious amenities like Frette linens, and the spa, recently taken over by The WELL, make for a relaxing getaway. The dining room serves farm-fresh New England-inspired modern American cuisine and the hotel's countless activities will help rekindle the romance (think pottery-making, showshoeing, Tarot Card readings, and cocktails by the bonfire).

Blantyre, Massachusetts

A former 1902 country manor situated half way between New York and Boston, Blantyre is an exceptional escape set on 110 acres of lush Berkshires landscape. The Relais & Châteaux has 22 spacious guest rooms and one villa, along with luxury amenities, renowned cuisine, and a remarkable wine cellar. The resort also collaborated with Dom Pérignon to create the Champagne Salon. From romantic sleigh rides in the winter to tennis and golf nearby in the warmer months, the activities are plentiful.

The Wauwinet, Nantucket

Look no further than Nantucket's most iconic hotel (and the island's only Relais & Châteaux property) for some quality couple's time. The Wauwinet's 32 rooms, plus four standalone cottages, are each outfitted with luxe Pratesi linens, plush robes, and fresh wildflowers. As for the activities, consider a champagne picnic and scenic bike ride, or head out on the water for a Barton & Gray Hinckley Cruise.

The Charlotte Inn, Massachusetts

Tucked away on a quiet street in Edgartown, the stately mansion-lined village on Martha's Vineyard, the Charlotte Inn exudes old world charm. The Relais & Châteaux property is especially known for the exceptional fine dining at the Terrace, where the focus is on French cuisine (expect classics like foie gras, escargots, and red wine-braised short ribs on the menu). Rooms and suites are decorated with lush period furnishings, such as handmade silk drapes, oil paintings of English country scenes, crystal lamps, and Edwardian-style wallpaper. The main rooms of the hotel have also been meticulously designed and furnished (antique mahogany-paneled walls, fireplaces, chintz armchairs, a library filled with leather-bound books), meaning you'll have no problem finding a quiet, charming nook for a romantic date night.

The Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant, Vermont

A small luxury hotel situated in Vermont's Manchester Village, the Reluctant Panther has just 20 rooms, all equipped with a cozy fireplace, Frette bathrobes, and Malin + Goetz products. Plan a romantic date night at the inn's restaurant, which features award-winning cuisine and a wine list what will please even the most discerning of oenophiles. Winter visitors can take advantage of the inn's close proximity to the Stratton and Bromley Mountain ski areas.

Weekapaug Inn, Rhode Island

This historic inn in Westerly, Rhode Island, first founded in 1899, is the epitome of a New England luxury escape. Located on the edge of Quonochontaug Pond, the intimate hotel has 27 guest rooms and four two-bedroom suites, along with a restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Guests at the Relais & Châteaux property can participate in a range of activities, from boating and birding, to simply enjoying the romantic sunset over the pond.

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa, Vermont

Experience New England luxury at its finest at the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa in Manchester. Between the well-appointed guest rooms and suites and the host of five-star amenities, including the spa, a year-round indoor pool, a tennis club, a golf course, and five incredible dining venues, the resort is a perfect destination for a high-end romantic getaway. It also has a number of historic sister inns and homes for rental scattered around the expansive property. The most notable is 1811 House—now a 13-room country inn filled with fireplaces, antique furnishings, private porches and canopied beds—that was once the summer home of Abraham Lincoln's granddaughter, Mary Todd Lincoln.

Delamar Southport, Connecticut

Turn your romantic trip into a luxurious spa getaway at this intimate boutique hotel in Southport. The Spa Suite is equipped with a couples treatment room, a living room with a fireplace, and a steam shower. A luxe menu of treatments uses Biologique Recherche and Valmont products, making it all the more enticing. After a day of pampering, enjoy a date night at Artisan restaurant, which features a farm-to-table menu of New England-inspired fare, like seafood cioppino, squid ink tagliatelle, sea scallops, and oysters.

Castle Hill Inn, Rhode Island

One of the most romantic spots in Newport, the grand Castle Hill Inn is situated on 40 acres overlooking Narragansett Bay, with panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean. The Relais & Châteaux property has 33 rooms, each equipped with luxurious bathrobes and local herbal bath products. The highly-acclaimed Dining Room is a renowned culinary experience, with traditional New England dishes and an extensive wine list with over 800 selections. Book the hotel's " Retreat to Romance" package, which includes a bottle of Rosé Champagne, fresh flowers, and chocolate dipped strawberries upon arrival, plus a three-course dinner at the restaurant.

The Pitcher Inn, Vermont

This Relais & Châteaux inn located in Vermont's Green Mountains is cozy and charming, with most rooms (there are only 11 keys) featuring wood-burning fireplaces and each with its own eclectic, distinctive, Vermont chic decor. As befits the Relais & Châteaux seal, the food is delicious. Plus, its proximity to Sugarbush ski and golf resort makes it a great home base for any season.

Camden Harbour Inn, Maine

READ REVIEWS BOOK NOW Perched on a hilltop overlooking Penobscot Bay, Camden Harbour Inn has 20 uniquely designed rooms, something to do for all seasons (skiing in the winter, foliage hikes in the fall, sailing in the summer), and an award-winning restaurant, Natalie's, that is considered one of the best in the entire state. As for couple's activities, partake in one of the hotel's many cooking classes, or go on a lobster cruise—and then learn to make lobster rolls with your catch.

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Maggie Maloney is the Site Director of Oprah Daily. She previously worked at Town & Country, Elle DECOR, and Marie Claire.

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22 best winter day trips from Boston

From cozy getaways to glittery jaunts to the best foodie stops, we found the most fun destinations to hit outside The Hub this winter

Bostonians take winter fun seriously, it’s an integral part of living in the Northeast. Truly, the only way to survive the winter cold is to plan fun activities that get you out of the house. One of the best ways to avoid cabin fever this time of year is to get out of the city. And, a little day trip can really lift the spirits. Explore all that New England has to offer, including quaint, historic towns and shoreline stops, as well as gaming destinations and, of course, buzzing ski towns. And if you don’t have time to head of Boston right now, stick stay closer to home and enjoy the city’s best attractions , best free things to do and best museums in Boston . RECOMMENDED:  The coziest Airbnb cabins near Boston

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Best winter day trips from Boston

1.  Bretton Woods, NH

Located in the White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire’s stunning Bretton Woods is a winter wonderland spread across more than 2,000 acres, at the base of the tallest peak in the Northeast, Mount Washington. You can take a canopy tour zipline, dine at the mountain top and, of course, glide down the slopes.

2.  Woodstock, VT

Most New Englanders know this bucolic village from summer and fall visits, but they’re missing the beauty of the green covered in a deep snow. It’s the perfect setting for the annual Woodstock Snow Sculpture Festival, held every February. You can also browse Woodstock’s unique shops like FH Gillingham & Sons general store, or the Arts on the Green gallery. Enjoy farm to table dining at the Prince and the Pauper , or grab a pizza and a nice glass of wine at the Ransom Tavern .

3.  Portsmouth, NH

One of our favorite destinations in New England, Portsmouth has a thriving food scene, offers one-of-a-kind shopping, historic walking trails and a beautiful waterfront. Pick a dry day to walk around the shops, then hit Vida Cantina , owned by James Beard nominee David Vargas; or Toscana Italian Chophouse & Wine Bar for a warming bite. Earth Eagle Brewing ’s taproom is a more casual option, with gourmet burgers and dogs that are worth the trip.

4.  Mystic, CT

Scenic, historic Mystic is renowned for stellar attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport Museum . Once you make the 90-minute journey from Boston, you can make a day of it—but if you choose to stay over, try The Whaler’s Inn . Nestled just steps from the banks of the Mystic River and the Bascule Drawbridge, the Inn offers inspired dining at The Shipwright's Daughter . Of course, no visit to Mystic is complete without a meal at The Oyster Club , and a trip to try the award winning pizza at Nana’s Bakery is a must.

5.  Salem, MA

• Things to do

October may be the busiest time of year to visit Salem, but the city is just as fun in the winter. With the Peabody Essex Museum, lots of great restaurants and so many other cultural things to do, Salem is a great day trip from Boston--especially because it is accessible via the commuter rail. So you don't even need a car!

6.  Newport, RI

While you may think summer is the time to visit Newport’s glorious Gilded Age mansions, the annual Newport Winter Festival is among New England’s largest winter celebrations and takes place each February with ten days of events. Along with concerts and a children’s fair, there’s a killer Chili Cook-Off featuring chefs from local restaurants. Treat yourself to a fun, stay at Castle Hill Inn , or stop by The Reef for classic seafood with impressive ocean views.

7.  Kennebunkport, ME

The Maine coastline is always beautiful, but it’s even more stunning to see those mighty waves crash on a snowy afternoon. There’s lots to do too, like Kennebunkport’s annual Paint the Town Red event that stretches Valentine’s Day into a month-long celebration. Dock Square—the town’s unofficial center—is decked out in red twinkly lights, capped with an eight-foot glowing red heart created from lobster traps. Throughout the month, there are special pop-up dinners, mixology classes and wine tastings, many of them offering specials and deals.

8.  Westford, MA

Ski, board, tube and soak in the wintery scene at the Nashoba Valley Ski Area , just 25 miles west of Boston in quiet Westford. This family-owned resort has 18 beautifully groomed trails on 55 acres of terrain. The adjacent, separate tubing park has 18 lanes, making it New England’s largest such facility. Winter events include the annual Grease the Rail Jam and legendary freestyler Wayne Wong’s annual ski clinics with resort co-owner, Olympian Pam Fletcher. It all comes to a splashy end in March with the Meltdown Pond Skim: ski into slush!

9.  Newburyport

Enjoy an off-season stroll through history in this seaport town, on a cool winter day. Start by visiting the Newburyport Historic District, which encompasses most of downtown, and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and includes the Cushing House Museum & Garden and the Custom House Maritime Museum . After taking in the local lore, dine on classic seafood at Michael’s Harborside or head to the Newburyport Brewing Company , both open year round.

10.  Dennis Port, MA

Is Cape Cod worth the visit in the winter? If you like uncrowded beaches, hiking and getting creative with activities—plus, not sitting in summer traffic—then the answer is yes. Take the under two-hour drive to Dennis Port and head outside to cross-country ski, snowshoe or, if the ground is bare, just walk the Cape Cod Rail Trail for a breathtaking view of the seascape during the winter. Stop by the Pelham House Resort for brunch with an ocean view (without the crowds!) and reserve a private beach bonfire for the whole group with s’more kits and spiked, salted hot caramel cocoa to end your perfect day.

11.  The Inn at Hastings Park

On a Sunday morning finish the weekend with brunch just outside Boston. The Inn at Hastings Park is a historic hotel located a few miles outside Boston.  Offering brunch  on Sundays, this is just the place to escape the city and enjoy the Relais & Chateaux  atmosphere. 

12.  Old Saybrook, CT

Old Saybrook, a very un-touristy town on the coast, is eminently walkable and is  home to the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, or The Kate, which is named for the area’s most famous native. You can also explore Saybrook Point and Fort Saybrook Monument Park, and take in the quiet winter beauty of these protected coastal wetlands. Dine at the newly reopened The Essex , a local favorite that’s a Wine Spectator and Yankee Magazine award winner, or pop by the historic Monkey Farm for a more casual experience.

13.  North Adams, MA

North Adams is an old mill town by the Hoosic River that now attracts serious art- and nature-lovers from across the country, primarily due to the spectacular Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, better known as MASS MoCA . Hikers and folks looking for some fresh air head to Mount Greylock, Massachusetts’ highest peak, but bring your snowshoes or a sturdy vehicle in the winter. For Berkshire farms inspired eats, try the Break Room at Greylock Works for a menu that changes daily.

14.  Jackson, NH

If covered bridges iced with snow are your thing, you’ll get a treat heading into this  quiet valley town. Once there, head to the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation’s nonprofit cross country ski and snowshoe center. Considered some of the finest cross-country ski trails in the Eastern U.S., at the main lodge facility you’ll find a retail shop, rental shop and waxing area. There is a trail-warming hut, and ski lessons are available, along with snowshoe tours. After a strenuous day outdoors, dig into a charcuterie board and pan roasted farm sirloin at the Thompson House Eatery .

15.  Watch Hill, RI

Watch Hill in Rhode Island is another popular summer destination that is just as charming in the off season. And perhaps even more so due to the lack of crowds.  Swing by  Ocean House  and the Weekapaug Inn. Be sure to plan your visit so you can spend the afternoon at the  Weekapaug Inn  for lunch and then the evening for dinner at Ocean House.

16.  Westerly, RI

While visiting nearby Watch Hill, or as a stand-alone trip, sweet little Westerly is a decidedly non-touristy town with lots for visitors to do. Take a chilly stroll (or maybe not that chilly, based on the past few winters) on a stretch of Misquamicut State Beach, then head to downtown Westerly for fresh baked doughnuts at Knead , cocktails and oysters at High Hope Tavern and a modern Peruvian meal at Bar Pisco .

17.  Provincetown

With the ferry running into December, and Cape Air year round , there’s no better season than the holidays to visit sassy P-town. Take in the lobster pot “tree,” climb the 252-foot granite Pilgrim Monument for dramatic harbor views, dine year round on great seafood at Mac’s Fish House and enjoy strolling the peaceful streets.

18.  Brattleboro, VT

Brattleboro —a funky, artsy destination in the foothills of southern Vermont’s Green Mountains—is surrounded by wonderful hiking terrain, but you might also want to explore the town’s bohemian shops and farm-to-table eateries. Go vegan at the Superfresh! Organic Cafe, or head to the Chelsea Royal Diner, an original 1939 Worcester Lunch Car. In February, the annual Winter Carnival brings together the arts and entertainment communities for a weeklong jamboree. Visit the Vermont Jazz Center or one of the many artisan breweries. To learn about local history, stop into the Brattleboro Historical Society, which has a wonderful collection of memorabilia.

19.  Providence, RI

This easy to navigate city should be on your radar year round for a day trip. Put on your warmest winter coat and treat yourself to a dine-around through Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, loaded with Italian eateries and shops. Visit the Rhode Island School of Design’s museum , which includes one the country’s finest university art collections, and don’t miss celebrated Syrian bakery Aleppo Sweets .

20.  Groton, MA

Head to this classic New England town and enjoy a brisk stroll around the Rocky Hill Wildlife Sanctuary , home to uninterrupted woodlands and ample solitude, and enjoy more than three miles of hiking trails while keeping an eye out for moose, beavers and porcupines, as well as nearly 100 species of birds. Other options include hiking Gibbet Hill Farm and exploring historic Bancroft Castle . If you’re visiting on a weekend, check to see if Puritan & Co.’s Will Gilson is cooking up dinner at his family farm, the Herb Lyceum .

21.  Uncasville, CT

If you’re not feeling outdoorsy, plug into the nightlife at Mohegan Sun . The casino is essentially a giant indoor winter playground packed with restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The gaming tables and slots are one option, but you can also catch a comedy or music act. In January, the annual Sun Wine and Food Fest adds three days of wine, beer, and spirits tasting, plus celebrity chef demonstrations.

22.  Everett, MA

There’s one major reason to head to Everett, and that’s the relatively new Encore Boston Harbor Casino. Stay warm and cozy 24 hours a day while you hit the tables, or enjoy a relaxing massage in the resort's luxurious spa (which is offering winter skin saving treatments, like the Skin Replenishing Ritual, all season long). Sample new flavors at Cheese Meet Wine or bet on the Pats at Wynn BET Sports Bar .

More foodie fun

The best food-filled road trip from Boston

It doesn't get much better than food and travel—why not combine the two and take a food-focused road trip? Here's a go-to itinerary for anyone looking to take in the area's best treats and culinary experiences. Given New England's relatively small footprint, you can mix and match these stops based on your liking.

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12 Best Romantic Winter Getaways in New England

Posted on November 12, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on August 14, 2023

When the weather starts to cool down and snow starts to fall, romance heats up in New England’s hotels, inns, and B&Bs. Whether you want to cozy it up by the fire or enjoy a winter hike in the woods, there are plenty of great destinations to make the most of the season together. 

If you are planning a romantic escape to New England, we have listed some of the best destinations for two featuring romantic inns, cozy indoor things to do, and fun winter activities . Explore the region’s mountains, beaches, or quaint towns during your winter trip and spend some quality time with your better half.

Keep on reading to discover the best romantic winter getaways in New England!

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Salem, Massachusetts

By Cami from Travel Cami

Salem, Massachusetts is a romantic destination for winter. It has long, snowy winters and beautiful old architecture including historic homes like the House of Seven Gables, which inspired a famous piece of American literature with the same name.

Salem has great restaurants and cafes , especially coffee shops with cocoa and warm drinks, perfect for cuddling up next to someone special. There are also lots of cute shops and boutiques selling finely crafted artisan goods that make great gifts, and you’ll find lots of great holiday decorations in the shops.

But what really makes Salem such a great destination is its uniqueness. Being where the Salem witch trials took place, the town has a strong connection to history and witchcraft. There are great ghost tours for those who like spooky events, and there are also lots of other kinds of tours with themes such as ghosts, art, food, and architecture.

Some of the best things to do in town in the winter include visiting historic sites like the Witch House and Hawthorne’s Birthplace , museums like the Peabody Essex Museum and the Salem Historical Society , and taking a stroll along Salem’s historic waterfront.

Regarding places to stay, the Salem Inn or the Hawthorne Hotel would be great options for couples with romantic rooms and cozy vibes. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals right in the historic district.

So if you’re looking for something special to do this winter that’s romantic but also unusual, visiting Salem might just do the trick.

Portland, Maine

By Kelsea from Out of Office Mindset

Portland, Maine is a beautiful coastal city that sparks with light and life in the wintertime. The city is home to quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and interesting historical landmarks , making it the perfect destination for a winter getaway. 

Winter in Portland, Maine kicks up in December and lasts through March. The average high temperature is 41 degrees (F) and the average low temperature is 17 degrees (F). In the wintertime, you are likely to be greeted by snow so be sure to pack a good winter jacket and warm, waterproof boots! 

To start your wonderful winter weekend getaway in Portland , Maine, grab a cup of coffee or tea and drive over to the Portland Head Light . The Portland Head Light is the iconic Maine lighthouse – the grounds around it are beautiful and the snow elevates its charm! 

After visiting the lighthouse, head to Portland’s Old Port . In Old Port, you will see the most charming cobblestone streets lined with unique boutiques and delicious restaurants . Treat yourself to an afternoon popping in and out of these cute shops. 

When shopping summons an appetite, you will be in the right place! Portland, Maine was named Restaurant City of the Year in 2018 by Bon Appetit. A few local favorites include The Holy Donut, Eventide Oyster Co., Empire Chinese Kitchen, and Front Room. 

Portland, Maine has no shortage of great accommodations either. There are fantastic hotels right in Old Port but a favorite place are the Bed and Breakfasts in the West End. The Chadwick Bed and Breakfast is sure to enhance your entire Portland experience. From the scrumptious breakfast to the beautiful, romantic rooms, you won’t want to leave!

Bar Harbor, Maine

The getaway to Acadia National Park , Bar Harbor is an ideal winter getaway destination in New England for couples looking to enjoy the outdoors and winter activities. Many trails are still accessible for hiking , sections of the Park Loop Road stay open , while 45 miles of carriage road await for some of the best cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the East Coast.

For a scenic road trip, you can drive   Ocean Drive  and  Jordan Pond Road stopping along the way to scenic spots and overlooks. You’ll pass by Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and the Beehive .

The most challenging trails are closed during winter, but you’ll still find plenty of places you can reach on foot. Eagle Lake features stunning views, a 3.7-mile groomed path on its west side, and access to several carriage roads.

You can also hike the Cadillac North Ridge Trail which is ideal if you want to watch the sunrise or sunset from a high point.

If you want to explore the park further grab your skis or snowshoes to be able to hike to more remote places. Snowmobiling is also an option and is allowed on the Park Loop Road. Adventurous couples can also try their hand at ice climbing.

In town, many places will be closed but it means homier vibes and lower prices. For a romantic place to stay, check out The Inn on Mount Desert featuring comfy rooms, free breakfast, and a perfect location. You’ll also find plenty of cabins available for rent.

Museums usually stay open during winter and can be a good way to escape the cold.

For a fun date, you can head to Reel Pizza for a movie and some pizza. For something more romantic, head to Havana , serving high-end Latin and American cuisine in an intimate setting. Featuring stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Mountains, The Veranda Bar at Balance Rock Inn is known for its cocktails and small plates.

Things you should pack for a winter trip to Acadia: crampons/ice grippers/cleats , trekking poles , thermal underwear , snowboots + usual winter clothing.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington will make the perfect city break winter getaway, especially for those who are not into winter sports. Couples will find tons of romantic things to do and activities to enjoy together, especially indoors to avoid the chilly winter temperatures.

Stroll around Church St. and maybe do some holiday shopping at one of the many independent shops and cute stores . There, you’ll also find plenty of nice restaurants lining this pedestrian avenue and many cozy coffee shops, bars, and pubs to warm up.

The Whiskey Room  is a locals’ favorite and is the perfect place to sample whiskeys, craft beers, or cocktails while eating some tapas. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Vivid Coffee while cozying it up by their roaring fireplace. If you like beers, you can plan on dropping by a few of the local craft breweries. 

For a romantic date, have dinner at the upscale yet casual Hen of the Wood . Cooking with local and fresh produce , they change their menu daily – if you sit at the bar you can watch the cooks at work.

For some pampering, head to the spa at The Essex where you can get massages or spa treatments, and enjoy their pool and hot tub (you can even stay there and get free access to the spa’s facilities).

And if you want to spend some time outdoors after all, you’ll only be an hour away from Sugarbush, Smuggler’s Notch, Mad River Glen, and Stowe where you can ski or snowboard.

In town, you’ll find plenty of chain hotels. For something more intimate. check out the charming and family-run Willard Street Inn with free breakfast, on-sight parking, and cozy rooms. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals with great amenities and stunning views.

North Conway, New Hampshire

Nestled between the White Mountain National Forest and the Kancamagus Highway , the small town of North Conway is a quintessential New England winter getaway. From there, New Hampshire’s best ski resorts, winter activities, and romantic settings await for a memorable weekend with your partner.

For outdoor winter activities, head to Attitash and Cranmore Mountain resorts for skiing or snowboarding. If cross-country skiing is more your thing, go for a winter hike at nearby Jackson . You’ll also find many snowmobile trails not far from town.

North Conway is also an ideal place to go ice climbing , you’ll find a couple of schools around town offering ice climbing tours and courses in the White Mountains. If you are in town at the beginning of February, don’t miss the  Mt. Washington Valley Ice Fest – check out the town’s event calendar, as there are always a lot of fun things going on during winter in and around town.

For something more relaxed, stroll around town, checking out a few shops and cozy coffee shops . The Front Side Coffee Roaster is a popular spot among locals and is also a good place to grab a bite to eat. For a romantic dinner date, the Stonehurst Manor offers fine dining in elegant and intimate settings .

Another great thing to do in winter is to ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad , enjoying a peaceful train ride to Attitash through a snowy landscape and stunning scenery.

For a cozy place to stay in North Conway, check out Buttonwood Inn on Mount Surprise offering spacious rooms with great views, and daily homemade breakfast. For something more intimate, consider booking a vacation rental, you’ll find plenty of cabins with a fireplace and hot tub for the perfect romantic getaway.

Norwich, Connecticut

Located about halfway between Boston and New York, Norwich is the perfect blend of fun outdoor activities and ways to keep warm. Stroll around the historic downtown , grab a bite to eat, and sip on a glass of wine by the fireplace – or grab your gear and head outside for a fun day in the snow.

Norwich is an ideal romantic winter getaway in New England for couples looking for a small town full of charm with plenty of entertainment options.

Book a stay at the luxurious and historic The Spa at Norwich Inn and treat yourself to a couple’s massage or a spa treatment – or simply enjoy the indoor pool and sauna room. If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider booking a vacation rental .

Right in town, make sure to stop by the Yantic Falls , often frozen over this time of year, and then go ice skating at the RoseGarden Ice Arena . You can also visit a historic house or two – the Slater Memorial Museum and Leffingwell House Museum are popular options.

If you’re up for hiking, head to Mooween State Park open from 8 AM to sunset.

For a fun night out, have dinner at the cozy yet sophisticated Ascot’s , then head to the casino at Mohegan Sun .

Newport, Rhode Island

More of a summer destination, Newport, Rhode Island, is still an awesome place to visit during winter, especially for couples who like to avoid the crowds. Enjoy the fresh air of the sea, stroll through this quintessential New England town , and cuddle up by the fireplace after a day out. It will make the perfect coastal romantic getaway in New England.

You’ll find great deals on oceanfront houses this time of the year, or you can book a stay at the luxurious Castle Hill Inn , a historic Victorian Mansion. The Serenity Inn Newport is also a nice option for couples on a budget . In addition, most things stay open year-round, so you can enjoy the town’s top attractions and best restaurants.

In town, don’t miss touring a couple of Newport’s Victorian mansions , checking out the igloos at Gurney’s Resorts , taking a Holiday Lantern Walking Tour , and hiking the Newport Cliff Walk. If you like boating and spotting wildlife, take a tour with Save the Bay, offering nature tours and seal watching in Newport , from October to April.

When you need to warm up, head to the Chanler Hotel and their hot chocolate bar , where you can sample some of the best cocoa in town. You can also visit a couple of museums , most stay open throughout winter.

For a romantic date, start with a couple’s massage at The Bodhi Spa  then have a glass of wine at the Vino Wine Bar followed by dinner at the classy and tasty Lucias Italian Restaurant .

Make sure to check out the town’s event calendar as well, especially if you are visiting around the Holidays or during the Newport Winter Festival.

Stowe, Vermont

A list of the most romantic winter getaways in New England wouldn’t be complete without including Stowe in Vermont. The cozy mountain town is ideal for couples wanting to enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, as well as for people just wanting to relax and find plenty of entertainment options.

Enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, winter hiking, or tubing among many others , go for some shopping, get a couple’s massage or spa treatment , and enjoy the plethora of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops available. You’ll also find many breweries in town and the famous Ben & Jerry’s factory which you can tour.

A romantic thing to do in Stowe is to ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield and grab lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant and then dessert at The Waffle Cabin . For a romantic dinner date, book a table at the gourmet Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar .

When looking for a place to stay, you can check out the many vacation rentals in town , from cozy chalets to luxurious condos, all great options for a romantic winter getaway (pick one with a fireplace!). If you’d rather book a hotel room, the iconic Trapp Family Lodge is ideal for couples looking for some romance.

Williamstown, Massachussetts

Located in the heart of the Berkshires, Williamstown is a quaint New England town and will make one of the best romantic winter weekend getaways in Massachusetts. It’s an ideal destination for couples looking to spend a weekend strolling through art galleries and museums, sampling some tasty food, and maybe enjoying an easy winter hike or two.

Start by booking a room at the upscale  Williams Inn close to everything and an ideal romantic getaway destination. Don’t miss their restaurant, The Barn Kitchen & Bar , using local, sustainable ingredients to craft New American cuisine including New England classics and updated favorites.

For something more affordable, you can book a room at the well-rated Maple Terrace Motel or a vacation rental.

In town, don’t miss the 16th-19th century paintings at the Clark Art Institute and the eclectic art collection of its neighbor, the Williams College Museum of Art . Stroll through the downtown area, stopping by art galleries, independent shops, and cozy coffee shops.

For a fun night out, catch an independent, foreign, or classic film at the historic Images Cinema before grabbing a bite to eat and a cocktail at the popular Mezze Bistro + Bar.

If you want to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, plan a hike to the summit of Mt. Greylock or through picturesque vistas at the Mountain Meadow Preserve . Outdoor lovers might also want to check out Taconic State Park and its many miles of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails.

Franconia, New Hampshire

Nestled in the White Mountains, Franconia is the perfect New England winter getaway for couples who want to enjoy the outdoors, with access to beautiful hikes and plenty of entertainment options.

Within Franconia Notch, you’ll find the small towns of Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, and Littleton . All are worth checking out if you have the time.

If you want to ski, from Franconia, you have easy access to Cannon Mountain , and Bretton Woods and Loon Mountain are less than a 30-minute drive away.

Some of the best winter hikes in New England are found around Franconia Notch , from the easy Flume Gorge trail to more challenging full-day hikes. Be sure to have the proper gear for winter hiking ( crampons/ice grippers/cleats , trekking poles , thermal underwear , snowboots ), many hikes require snowshoes.

For something a bit more relaxed, go ice skating at  Franconia Inn , visit  Ice Castles in North Woodstock, or stroll through the downtown area in Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, and Littleton.

If you’re craving something sweet, head to Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill! If you like beer, check out a couple of breweries like Rek-Lis Brewing  in Bethlehem,  Schilling Beer Co  in Littleton, and  Iron Furnace Brewing  in Franconia.

When it comes to places to stay, you’ll find several romantic cozy inns and plenty of comfy vacation rentals . The Sugar Hill Inn is a great place for couples to stay at. They feature comfy rooms with views over the mountains, a tasty complimentary breakfast and a beautiful garden . If you want to treat yourself, book the Dream Cottage with a spa bath, private sauna, and a fireplace.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Treat yourself to one of the most romantic New England inns, the White Barn Inn , ideal for a couple’s winter weekend getaway. Book a suite with a fireplace and a spa bath for romance, enjoy their top-notch spa , stroll through the gardens , and have a romantic dinner at their AAA Five Diamond, Forbes Five Star restaurant.

There are also plenty of things to do during winter outside the inn. Head to the Waterhouse Center Ice Rink on Main Street for some ice skating, and if you’re up for some cross-country skiing , check out nearby Harris Farm and Smiling Hill Farm . In town, stroll through the downtown area, window shopping, and then check out the waterfront.

You’ll find plenty of cute shops and coffee shops to warm up. If you like wine, you can go sample some at Old Vines Wine Bar (they’re also known for their craft cocktails) accompanied by some tapas. Or, head to Kennebunk Brewpub if beer is more your thing, you might even happen to stop by during a Trivia night.

Westerly, Rhode Island

Escape to the beach this winter with a coastal getaway with your partner. Take long walks on the beach, peruse through small shops in downtown Westerly, and cozy up by a fireplace with a hot cocoa or glass of wine . Westerly is one of the best New England winter getaways if you’re looking for a weekend of relaxation.

Start by booking a room at the comfy Shelter Harbor Inn (make sure to pick one with a fireplace!). The inn has its own private beach , a big terrace, and serves a hearty breakfast every morning. In addition, you can have a meal at their onsite Farm to Fork restaurant, get a massage at the spa, and enjoy the various seasonal activities that might be happening during your stay.

In town, many places stay open throughout winter. Check out Savoy Bookshop & Cafe where you can enjoy reading while sipping on a coffee or eating a pastry. You’ll also find several breweries , some organize events or themed nights during the weekends, Malted Barley Brewery is one of the most popular. If wine is more your thing, check out the  Langworthy Farm Winery .

From October through April, Save The Bay organizes seal-watching tours from Westerly as well if you want to go on a boat tour.

For a romantic dinner date, book a table at Ella’s Food & Drink , a European/Asian fusion fine dining restaurant in an elegant setting.

Washington, Connecticut

Known for its picturesque countryside, historic buildings, and rich cultural life , Washington, CT, offers plenty of things to do during the wintertime for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The town is a true winter wonderland, especially around the Holidays thanks to its many independent shops where you can do some Christmas shopping , and its Holiday in the Depot festival, among other many holiday festivities organized around town . You can also stop by  The Frederick Gunn School , open for public skating on Sundays throughout the winter.

For some outdoor winter activities, you can hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe trek along one of Steep Rock Association’s  preserves and trails  and experience the beauty of nature and bucolic views this time of year. In nearby Cornwall, Mohawk Mountain offers downhill skiing and snowboarding.

When you need to warm up, head to one of the town’s taverns like the historic G.W. Tavern  or the  White Horse Country Pub for a warm drink or hearty meal.

In Washington, you’ll also find one of the most romantic inns on the East Coast, the Mayflower Inn & Spa , an Auberge Resorts Collection. The luxurious inn offers top-notch services and amenities. Book a room with a fireplace , indulge in a spa treatment , enjoy the indoor pool , take a stroll through their beautiful garden , and try a meal of regionally-sourced ingredients at The Mayflower Dining Room.

Romantic Cabins with Hot Tub and Fireplace in New England

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• New England Travel Guide New England winter getaways

Romantic Winter Getaways New England: Top 15 Most Unique Spots

• November 6, 2023
• New England Travel Guide , New England winter getaways

New England is a winter canvas of romance and adventure. It’s a snowy wonderland for skiers and indoor admirers alike.

This guide uncovers the common and the hidden gems, with experiences tailored for both the cold-lovers and the not-so-keen. Shared here are secrets from seasoned travelers and tales from journeyed writers.

New England is a trove of winter romance, with charming coastal towns, enchanting mountain escapes, and idyllic small towns. It’s a place for ice-skating, mansion exploring, and spa indulging. Prepare for a journey through a winter wonderland of New England towns .

Ready to start planning your upcoming romantic winter weekend getaways in New England ? Let’s get into it:

• Newport, Westerly, Kennebunkport & Greenwich: Coastal jewels
• Stowe, Woodstock & Jackson: Mountainous marvels
• Stockbridge and Manchester: Charming small towns
• Sleigh rides, ice skating, wine, and spas included

Romantic New England winter getaways: Top Winter Towns

The tiny Northeast corner of the United States is a region of contrasts. It’s hard for any one New England town to encapsulate the perfect destination in New England.

So, we compiled our favorites from the coast to the mountains. You’re sure to find the perfect romantic getaway for you this winter season. Check-out our list of the best weekend getaways from Boston for even more options.

Charming Coastal Escapes for Romantic New England Winter Getaways

The coast of New England is a haven of winter romance. Each charming town has its unique flair, perfect for a winter getaway. And, if you’re not too attached to skiing at a ski resort, the coastline is typically more temperate.

Especially compared to the mountainous areas of New England.

Plus, the trip is easy if you’re looking for one of the best bed and breakfasts near New York City , to save on driving.

Greenwich, Connecticut

The first Connecticut town you’ll hit as you enter New England from the rest of the country, Greenwich, Connecticut , has a reputation that precedes it.

This charming coastal town wedged between New England and the Hudson River Valley, has a lot going for it. For one: the diversity: its spot creates a culture unique in New England. It’s where Manhattan meets New England, which makes for a unique New England Winter Getaway.

Winter hikes on hiking trails through the local woods are splendid. Or head to Greenwich Point Park to view the Manhattan skyline to the southwest.

Greenwich is famous for its luxury shopping and dining scene, with high-end boutiques and gastronomic delights all along Greenwich Avenue, our main street. Some personal favorites for fine dining includes L’Escale Restaurant , with a wood burning fireplace in the dining room. Or head to the Ginger Man, our local New England tavern, for warming comfort food in a cozy, inviting, dining room and bar.

And if you want to explore beyond the various things to do in Greenwich, CT, in the winter season , you can always hop on the Metro North rail line to New York City . There’s obviously even more winter activities in New York City to enjoy. And all without having to actually find one of the best areas to stay in Manhattan .

And as far as romantic inns for your romantic weekend getaway go, our Greenwich bed and breakfast is ideal. Or peruse our guide to Greenwich, CT, hotels for even more options.

Westerly, Rhode Island

Hop on the northbound side of the Merritt Parkway or I-95 to cross Connecticut. Just over the border is the next stop of the coastal New England winter getaway tour: Westerly. The town is famous for idyllic beaches and historic Watch Hill Lighthouse on the list of Westerly, RI, attractions . When hunger hits, The Cooked Goose or The Ocean House will satisfy. And for a romantic retreat, The Ocean House or The Weekapaug Inn provide cozy rooms for an ideal romantic winter getaway.

Newport, Rhode Island

Greenwich is the chosen home of the modern wealthy in New England, and Newport, Rhode Island was their preferred abode about a century ago.

This relic of the Gilded Age is ideal for marveling at at the grandeur of mansions like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff. Stroll the scenic Cliff Walk, admire the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and feast at renowned eateries like The White Horse Tavern and The Mooring. As dusk descends, retreat to a local luxurious inn such as Castle Hill Inn, The Vanderbilt Grace, or The Chanler at Cliff Walk.

Whether a hundred years ago or today, Newport makes for one of the most classic winter getaways from NYC .

Kennebunkport, Maine

Head up to Maine for the last stop on the tour of romantic winter getaways in New England: Kennebunkport, Maine. It’s pronounced, “Ken-knee-bunkport”, by the way.

Stroll the shoreline, admire the Portland Head Light, and refuel at The Boathouse, The Ramp, or The Clam Shack. For luxury, The White Barn Inn & Spa, home of a Forbes Five Star restaurant, The Tides Beach Club, and The Kennebunkport Inn await. Some even offer a hot tub.

Romantic New England Winter Getaways in the Mountains

Let’s swap sea breezes for mountain air. Picture yourself somewhere snow-dusted landscapes house a ski resort and cozy lodgings. These ski towns are New England’s mountain jewels, perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, or fireside cuddling. So, brace for the cold and embrace the winter wonder that awaits.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont, is a charming mountain town. It offers world-class skiing and much more. Take a gondola ride to the peak of Mount Mansfield for breath-taking views. Stop for lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant, then head to The Waffle Cabin for an unforgettable dessert.

Stowe Mountain Resort is a top choice for downhill skiing. After a day on the slopes, enjoy the town’s vibrant apres ski scene.

For a romantic evening, Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar is the place to be.

When it’s time to rest, options include The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Trapp Family Lodge, Green Mountain Inn , Stowe Motel & Snowdrift , and Stowehof Inn.

Woodstock, Vermont

This winter wonderland is another ideal New England winter getaway. Here, you can strap on skis or snowshoes to etch your story in the snow. The Woodstock Nordic Center in town offers snowshoeing and enjoy cross-country skiing on miles of cross-country ski trails.

For those who fancy downhill skiing, the Saskadena Six Ski Area is just a few minutes up the road. Woodstock is brimming with small-town fun, especially if you’re looking for festive Christmas activities.

When the day ends, the Woodstock Inn and Resort offers a warm hearth and plush accommodations. Or head to The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm in the nearby town of Quechee for small town New England winter charm.

Jackson, New Hampshire

Welcome to this jewel of a town in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This place is a winter’s dream for adventure-seekers and romantics. Test your skills at Wildcat Mountain or enjoy the tranquility of Nestlenook Farms.

When the day ends, retreat to a cozy cabin. The Christmas Farm Inn and Spa might be an ideal pick among the lengthy list of places to stay here. Don’t be fooled by the name. It’s not all about Christmas. It offers comfort, coziness, and luxury. With an indoor pool and an onsite spa, it caters to a winter family getaway.

Stoke the fire and cuddle up. Let the quiet of the night envelope you two.

Idyllic Small Winter Towns for the best winter getaways

For an eye for the quaint and a heart for the intimate, idyllic small New England towns beckon. The following picturesque hamlets are a cocktail of scenic allure, charming avenues, and an intimate ambiance — a perfect brew for romantic winter getaways in New England.

These small towns are rich with art galleries, shops brimming with curiosities, and landscapes ripe for outdoor activities. They each set the stage for lovers to reignite their spark and weave together memories that stand the test of time.

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Stockbridge, Massachusetts, nestled in the Berkshires, is a winter vacation haven for lovebirds. Its charm lies in its picturesque streets and the renowned Norman Rockwell Museum. Plenty of ski resorts are close, many offering snow tubing near Connecticut .

Hilltop Orchards remains open in the winter, inviting guests to sample wines and ciders and explore their scenic orchard trails by snowshoe.

The Red Lion Inn has been welcoming guests since 1920. And a historic inn is just what you need for a charming little New England town like this and others nearby, like Lee, MA .

North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway, New Hampshire is another winter paradise in the White Mountains. It’s a haven for the adventurous, offering a day filled with outdoor winter activities, including cross country skiing. From snowmobiling to snowboarding, snowshoeing to snow tubing, the options for winter sports are endless. The town is also home to classic New England shops, including an old-fashioned general store, to stay warm and cozy.

After the day’s exploits, unwind in a cozy inn, like Cranmore Inn & Suites or Kearsarge Inn . With stunning landscapes and a range of winter activities, North Conway is the perfect setting for a romantic winter escape.

Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, Vermont, effortlessly combines luxury with simplicity. This mountain town in southern Vermont is renowned for its high-end shopping and exquisite cuisine, all within reach of nearby ski resorts. After a day of adventure, visitors can retreat to a cozy inn and bask in the glow of a warm fireplace.

Manchester is more than a winter destination; its charm and scenic mountain views are unforgettable. And it’s more accessible than other parts of the state.

Winter in Manchester means relaxation in numerous B&Bs and inns, indulging in delicious restaurants, and cozying up by fireplaces. For the adventurers, nearby ski resorts like Stratton offer a thrilling experience.

The Best New England Winter Activities for Couples

Looking to spice up your winter romance? Try adding some exciting outdoor winter activities into the equation. Whether you’re gliding on ice, cuddled on a sleigh, or savoring a fine vintage, these experiences promise to etch unforgettable memories into your winter getaway.

Click over to our full guide to New England winter getaways for more outdoor activities, like ice fishing, dog sledding, even just sipping hot cocoa.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides

Imagine a horse-drawn sleigh ride through New England’s winter wonderland. The crunch of snow, the jingle of sleigh bells, all wrapped up in cozy mittens and warm blankets. Venues like Charmingfare Farm, Coppal House Farm, Omni Mount Washington Resort, and Nestlenook Farm are ready to whisk you away on a magical journey.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is not just a winter activity. It’s a ballet on ice, under the open sky. Picture yourselves hand-in-hand, gliding on the ice like swans on a frozen lake. Whether you’re an expert skater or a novice, ice skating is a joyous dance, a celebration of winter’s beauty. So, lace up your skates, take your partner by the hand, and let the dance begin.

Top spots to ice skate include: Stowe, Jackson, and Newport.

Wine and Beer Tastings

For those who appreciate fine drinks, New England’s vineyards and breweries are a must-visit. Picture yourself savoring a crisp Chardonnay or a robust porter in the company of your loved one. These tastings offer a shared adventure and a dance of flavors. You will find a range of options from Newport Vineyards in Rhode Island, Harpoon Brewery in Massachusetts, to Allagash Brewing Company in Maine.

Luxurious Spa Retreats

After a day exploring winter getaways in New England, nothing soothes like a spa retreat. Offering massages, facials, and tranquil settings, the below New England spa retreats transform your winter getaway into a journey of relaxation and romance. And most are fantastic dog-friendly getaways from NYC .

The Essex Spa – Burlington, Vermont

The Essex Spa in Burlington, Vermont is a haven of luxury in a lively city. And, added benefit, you can take the train from NYC to Burlington, VT , if you’re not a fan of driving. Here, you’re treated to massages, facials, and body treatments, a rejuvenating ritual that breathes life into the weary.

Once pampered, Burlington awaits, a city of culinary and shopping delights. And when night falls, retreat to the spa’s cozy quarters, a sanctuary where relaxation is king.

Mayflower Inn & Spa – Washington, Connecticut

The Mayflower Inn & Spa in the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut promises winter’s solitude, rejuvenation, and love rekindled. Here, amidst expert-led health coaching and soothing spa treatments, the world fades into tranquil silence. The Mayflower Inn & Spa is not just a romantic getaway, but a dance with winter’s charm.

White Barn Inn & Spa – Kennebunkport, Maine

Unveil the epitome of luxury at the White Barn Inn & Spa in Kennebunkport, Maine. Indulge in treatments that soothe the soul, dine on gourmet fare, and retreat to cozy quarters at day’s end.

Chatham Bars Inn – Chatham, Massachusetts

At the Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod, winter wellness takes center stage. The Relax, Recharge & Renew package includes a 30-minute De-Stress by the Sea massage. It’s perfect for easing the tension of daily life. You’ll also enjoy a 30-minute meditation session to calm the mind before a walk along the Atlantic Ocean. Hand-selected products from The Spa at Chatham Bars Inn are included for self-pampering. To top it all off, every morning starts with a complimentary hearty breakfast.

It’s the perfect place from which to explore the best things to do on Cape Cod , regardless of the time of year.

Seeking winter romance? New England’s your answer. Choose from coastal gems like Newport or mountainous retreats like Stowe. Prefer quaint charm? Try Stockbridge. Fancy a sleigh ride or a waltz on ice? New England’s got it. Wine and beer tastings, or spa retreats? Check. Pack your bags, grab your sweetheart, and let New England’s winter magic take the lead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular winter activities for couples in New England?

Snuggle up and carve winter tales in New England. Enjoy sleigh rides, skating, and wine tastings with your beloved.

Where can I find charming coastal towns for a romantic winter getaway in New England?

Brace for romance in New England’s coastal towns: Newport’s salt air, Westerly’s beaches, Kennebunkport’s inns, or Greenwich’s opulence. Let them pen your winter tale.

What are some picturesque mountain towns for a winter getaway in New England?

Shed the city’s noise for Stowe, Woodstock, and Jackson – New England’s winter-perfect mountain masterpieces.

Where can I find luxurious spa retreats for a romantic winter getaway in New England?

Seeking solace? Try The Essex Spa, Burlington, VT. Crave tranquility? Visit the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Washington, CT. Fancy opulence? The White Barn Inn & Spa, Kennebunkport, ME, awaits.

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• Local & State

Resurgam festival, a massive yard sale and more things to do this weekend

Comedian Dave Attell is in town, Zephyr Ice is serving up cool treats and food trucks are out in force (there's an app that will tell you where).

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We’re not entirely sure how the weekend weather is going to shake out, but either way there’s a whole lot going on, so let’s get to it.

Maine Roller Derby skaters competing at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. Photo by Jim Vernier

On Saturday and Sunday, Maine Roller Derby’s first international tournament happens at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. There will be several exciting flat-track bouts, and if you’re a Mainer, tickets are half off.

Get a discount on tickets to Maine Roller Derby’s international tournament

Max Abraham runs through Moon Tide Park while performing with the band Corpus Chicanery at last year’s Resurgam festival. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Resurgam Music and Arts Festival is Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ocean Gateway marine terminal and surrounding areas. The list of performers is about 17 miles long and includes Oshima Brothers Band and professional hula hoop and circus artist Nettie Loops.

Resurgam festival returns this weekend with music, arts and more

Local musician Toby McAllister, pictured here at The Press Room in Portsmouth, would of course play at a local venue on his perfect day. Photo by Corey Fitzgerald and courtesy of Toby McAllister

Another musician you can see at Resurgam is Toby McAllister from Sparks The Rescue. McAllister unpacked his perfect Maine day for us, and it includes a hike in Grafton Notch and a stop at Puzzle Mountain Bakery in Newry for cookies.

My Perfect Day: Hiking Old Speck, eating tacos and sweets, playing a show – for musician Toby McAllister, it all strikes a chord

Comic Dave Attell plays the State Theatre in Portland, June 8. Photo courtesy of the State Theatre

There’s plenty else cooking this weekend , including Yoga in the Park on Saturday and the Walk the Working Waterfront tour. Both are in Portland. Or you can shop till you drop at Maine’s Ultimate Spring Yard Sale Saturday at Cumberland Fairgrounds. Need a few laughs? Grab a ticket to see comic Dave Attell at the State Theatre Saturday.

Waterfront tour, giant yard sale, comic Dave Attell

Zephyr proudly tells its customers that everything is made in house with real fruit and no dyes. Photo by Megan Gray

Satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different this weekend. Zephyr Ice in Portland serves shaved ice atop a scoop of regular or vegan ice cream. Choose from a variety of syrup flavors, all made in-house with real fruit.

For cool, customizable treats, breeze on in to Zephyr Ice

Mainely Burgers food truck. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Should you fancy a food truck fix, check out our massive, always growing food truck guide and get busy chowing down.

A guide to 87 food trucks rolling through Maine

A Foodtruckalico Instagram post featuring the Ugly Dumpling food truck. Photo by Justin Velgos

For even more food truck fodder, we suggest heading to Food Truckalico on Instagram . A couple of times a week, the account shares details about where and when you can find trucks in the Portland area.

Follow the food trucks with Food Truckalico on Instagram

A newspaper article about a Comegato sighting from web series “Tracking the Comegato.” Photo courtesy of Kate Kaminski

If the weather does indeed relegate you to the indoors, curl up on the couch and fire up the new web series “Tracking the Comegato” about a beastly human-weasel hybrid that may or may not exist.

Could this human-weasel hybrid from Maine join the ranks of Bigfoot?

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WEEKDAY SUNSHINE

Monday will be a dry and comfortable start to the week starting with mid to upper 50s and warming to the 70s. There may be an early morning shower from dying thunderstorms occurring in New York or an afternoon pop-up (stop me if you’ve heard that before), but the threat is very low. We will have a mix of sun and clouds in the afternoon.

Tuesday will be a very similar forecast, both days will feature lower humidity. A pattern change is on the way for the end of the week with temperatures warming to the 80s, even upper 80s, by Friday. A cold front will trigger a few showers and thunderstorms, likely late in the day Friday or in the evening. Stay with us all week on the timing as it becomes clearer.

An early look at the weekend is for warm and dry days.

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