New England is a collection of six states situated in the Northeast of the US, historically known for their quaint cities, coastal towns, fall foliage, and famous foods. Located only a couple of hours from many large East Coast cities, New England is a perfect road trip destination. Visitors from all over the US venture here during fall for the breathtaking views of the foliage. Travelers find themselves indulging in popular foods such as lobster rolls, clam chowder, and apple cider. Keep reading for a bucket-list of top sites to visit in my favorite New England coastal towns.
Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic was historically known as a shipbuilding center in the 1600s. Now it has become famous for its Mystic Seaport – a village turned into a museum with a renowned collection of sailing ships and boats. Whether you are enjoying views of the beautiful waterfront, touring the historic homes, or checking out a local pub or restaurant, I found Mystic to be a great pit stop along my New England road trip.
Things to Do
Visit the Mystic Seaport Village & Museum
Stroll along Main Street
Bike ride to Clyde’s Apple Cider Mill and taste hard cider
Things to Eat
Enjoy wine tasting at a local winery
Visit a local pub/restaurant
Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is the largest city on my list of New England coastal towns to visit. Most travelers find themselves stopping in Providence, Rhode Island on the way to other New England coastal towns, however, this quaint city is worth a visit of its own. We thought Providence was a great city to stay overnight, conveniently located within a quick drive to several of the coastal towns on our list.
Things to Do
Pick pumpkins, eat caramel apples, or taste warm apple cider at Appleland orchard
Enjoy a floating wine tasting tour with one of Providence’s Vineyard Voyages
Things to Eat
Eat Italian food at Federal Hill
Grab a sweet treat at Ellie’s Bakery
Eat a margherita pizza at Providence Coal Fired Pizza
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport was most notably known as a luxurious summer getaway destination for wealthy families in the Gilded Age (the time between the Civil War and World War when many wealthy people lived very fancy lives). It then became famous as the location of the U.S. Open tennis and golf tournaments. Now visitors can take tours of these glamorous mansions situated alongside the beautiful coast. I found the Cliff Walk to be a great way to see many of the historic sites on foot.
Things to Do
Visit the “40 steps” on your stroll along the famous Cliff Walk
View the famous mansions in the Gilded Age Mansion Trolley Tour
Things to Eat
Taste scoops of the creamy ice cream flavors at Kilwins
Taste a variety of wines at Greenvale vineyards or Newport Vinyards
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport is a charming New England coastal town with a rich sailing, fishing, and water sports culture. It is situated in the Southern part of Maine with beautiful, long sandy beaches. We loved the character of Kennebunkport, as it truly felt like the perfect New England coastal town.
Things to Do
Drive along the scenic Ocean Avenue
Peak at the home of former President George Bush at Walker’s point
Take pictures at Goat Island Lighthouse
Window shop along Dock’s Square
Things to Eat
Grab a Maine favorite dessert, the Whoopie Pie, at HB Provisions
Eat a lobster roll at the Clam Shack
Try unique flavors of ice cream at Rococo Ice Cream
York, Maine
York is one of Maine’s oldest towns that is rich in history. The lovely beaches and cute shopping areas make it one of the top destinations in Maine for vacationing. En route to York, we couldn’t help but admire the picture-perfect Nubble Lighthouse. As we ventured through the town, we fell in love with the coastal views from the Marginal Walkway where we ventured off the path to stroll along the beach.
Things to Do
Strong along the coast on the picturesque Marginal Walkway
Snap pictures at the famous Nubble Lighthouse
Take a scenic walk along the beach
Things to Eat
Eat clam chowder or fresh lobster at a local lobster shack
Enjoy an upscale meal with a water view
Comment below with your favorite New England coastal town!
