There's plenty of natural beauty to be seen between New York and Portland. From beaches and lighthouses to magnificently landscaped gardens and lush urban parks, New England's distinctive and alluring beauty is pretty incredible!
Start off in New York. Get ready to leave behind the busy city for open roads and oceanside beauty!
Walnut Beach connects to Charles Island just offshore via a sand bridge that appears during low tide each day. Crossing it is a popular activity during the summer. Just remember to cross back before the tide rolls back in! It's also said that famed pirate Captain Kidd visited Charles Island during his adventures on the high seas!
Perched on the bluffs of Avery Point overlooking Fisher's Island Sound, Avery Point Lighthouse was the last lighthouse built in the state. Construction was completed in 1943, and even though it was deactivated in 1967, it was restored and relit in 2006.
Step back in time to 1720 at Olde Mistick Village. Whether you grab a bite to eat here, want to get in some shopping at the adorable boutiques, or just want to stroll around and soak up the charming vibes, this slice of historic Mystic is a definite must-see.
It's not hard to see why so many Gilded Age barons and tycoons chose to build their mansions along the coast of Newport, Rhode Island: it's breathtaking. The rugged shoreline, the deep blue water and the cool breezes make it especially lovely during the summer. So many wealthy people built homes along the shoreline in Newport that a 3.5-mile hike, called the Newport Cliff Walk runs along the coast and will take you past no less than 6 of the most impressive Gilded Age mansions! As you admire the architecture and landscaping of these luxurious homes, you'll also get to adventure through tunnels, across bridges, and past some of the prettiest ocean scenery in the East.
Boston's Charles River Esplanade is loaded with great views and history. Watching the boats along the river is especially lovely.
Nine Zero is steps away from the lovely Boston Common, so you're not too far away from a nature fix. Plus, there are yoga mats in every room, you can borrow a bike to explore the city, and they have a nightly wine reception in the lobby.
Stop off in Boston, a city with loads to see and do. The Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall and Boston Common are some of the most scenic spots in the city!
Climb to the top of the obelisk that marks the Bunker Hill Monument for sweeping views of Boston. It was built between 1827 and 1843 to commemorate an iconic Revolutionary War battle. The museum across the street has some great info on the history here.
On the banks of the Merrimack River, Maudslay State Park was once a private estate with a mansion, landscaped gardens, and a massive property with stands of pine. The houses and buildings have been leveled, but some of the flower gardens and orchard trees remain, making for a storybook-like park that's lovely to explore.
As you make your way into Maine, you'll definitely want to check out the lobster scene. Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier, founded in 1948, is one of the best places to get a lobster roll in the state, right on the creek... bring in a beer and enjoy the views, atmosphere, and grub!
Grab a parking pass at Kennebunk's town hall, or park and walk to Gooch's Beach. It's quiet, breezy, clean, and dog-friendly, perfect for meeting furry friends!
Maine's dramatic and rocky cliffs mean lots of scenic lighthouses. Portland Head Lighthouse is great because it has a museum in the former keeper's house, and is surrounded by a park that boasts stunning ocean views.
The Portland Regency Hotel & Spa is right near the water, which makes for some killer views. It also features an amazing spa, a swanky martini lounge, and a location in an old, 19th-century armory.
You've reached Portland! Take in the views of Casco Bay, enjoy an Allagash beer, tour some of the historic buildings, and fall madly in love with Maine!
