I’ve always believed there’s no better way to explore New England than by hitting the open road. With its charming small towns, coastal views, and history around every corner, it’s a region that begs for a road trip. So buckle up, because I’m about to take you on an unforgettable 7-day New England road trip itinerary.
From the quaint streets of Boston to the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park, there’s a lot to cover. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I’ll guide you through the must-see spots, hidden gems, and local favorites that make New England such a captivating destination.
Day 1: Boston, Massachusetts
Let’s kick things off in Boston. A city steeped in history, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the rich narrative of New England. As it’s the first place we’re visiting, I’ll share some of my favorite spots to ensure you make the most of your day.
Start your day at Boston Common, America’s oldest park. It’s here where I suggest you jump onto the Freedom Trail. Stretching over two and a half miles, the trail walks you through sixteen historical sites, including heavyweights like the State House and Paul Revere’s House.
After that historical delve, it’s time to fuel up. Head over to the famous North End, Boston’s oldest neighborhood, also known for its incredible Italian eateries. As a food fanatic, I can’t emphasize this enough: Don’t miss the cannoli at Mike’s Pastry! Your taste buds will thank you.
Post-lunch, it’s time to explore Boston’s thriving arts scene. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum are must-visits for art lovers. If you’re more of a sports fan, catch a Fenway Park tour, home of the Red Sox. It promises to be a unique experience, even if you’re not into baseball.
As the sun sets, wrap up your Boston adventure with a stroll in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood, known for its beautiful brownstones and cobblestone streets. Make sure to pass by the iconic Acorn Street for a perfect photo op.
While you catch your breath after the fast-paced day in Boston, think forward to the equally exciting days ahead in our 7-day New England road trip. It’s going to be a journey brimming with unique experiences and encapsulating stories that span centuries. And remember, this is just a starter taste of the magic New England has to offer.
Day 2: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
After a fun-filled day in Boston, we hit the road early and make our way towards Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This quaint New England town, filled with history and charm, serves as our second stop on this road trip.
Once we reach Portsmouth, the first point of interest on the list is none other than the historic downtown. As I walk through Market Square, Portsmouth’s bustling center, I’m engulfed by scenic views of well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings. There’s an array of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants that dot the streets, ready to be explored.
My next stop is Strawbery Banke, an incredible outdoor living history museum. It offers a unique experience as it’s home to a collection of historic, colonial homes. As I wander around, I find it intriguing how the museum manages to depict day-to-day life from centuries ago.
Being a port city, Portsmouth offers a variety of coastal delights. I make my way to Prescott Park, a stunning waterfront park. This is the perfect spot for a soothing stroll along the Piscataqua River, taking in scenes of fishing boats and towering bridges.
Historic Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is another must-visit spot, located just across the naval base. This spot offers picturesque views of the Portsmouth Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean, truly capturing the essence of New England’s rugged coastline.
For the food lovers, Portsmouth also delivers – seafood is a specialty here. That’s why the town is peppered with top-rated seafood restaurants. For a memorable lunch, I recommend The Dolphin Striker, renowned for its fresh lobster rolls.
Education buffs aren’t left out, either. The Seacoast Science Center sits over at Odiorne Point State Park. It offers an interactive way to learn about the local ecosystem and marine life, a perfect compliment to the coastal surroundings of Portsmouth.
Remember, our journey across New England doesn’t stop at Portsmouth. From here, we’ll continue to explore the diverse landscapes and iconic towns that this unique region has to offer. Stay tuned.
Day 3: Portland, Maine
After two unforgettable days in Boston and Portsmouth, we’re ready to hit the road for day 3 of our New England road trip itinerary: Portland, Maine. Known as “New England’s Best Kept Secret” this coastal city is a must-visit for seafood lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Wake up early and indulge in a hearty breakfast at one of the local diners in town. We’re going to need the energy for our packed day ahead. Our first stop, the iconic Portland Head Light. Standing tall since 1791, it’s the oldest lighthouse in Maine and gives ultimate postcard views of the Atlantic Coast.
Following the coast, next up is Eastern Promenade. A popular waterfront destination for locals and tourists alike, it’s a perfect place to stretch our legs, and take in the vibrant harbor views. It’s not surprising that it’s often listed as a “must-do” in Portland.
After a morning of exploring, it’s time to focus on one of the highlights of Portland: the food scene. Portland is considered one of the top foodie cities in the US, famed in particular for its lobster rolls and fresh seafood. Grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant and savor the culinary delights this city has to offer.
Post-lunch, we’ll shift our focus to Portland’s thriving arts scene. The Portland Museum of Art, with its extensive collection and regularly rotating exhibits, is a great place to start. For beer enthusiasts, a visit to one of the local breweries would not go amiss. Portland is home to a vibrant craft beer scene.
As evening approaches, we’ll head to the historic Old Port. Cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and picturesque architecture take us back in time.
Day 3 of our New England road trip paints a unique picture. Portland’s sleepy coastal town charm, combined with a bustling food and arts scene, makes for an interesting palette, flitting between relaxation and exploration. Needless to say, day 4 promises to be just as exciting.
| Day | City |
|---|---|
| 1 | Boston, MA |
| 2 | Portsmouth, NH |
| 3 | Portland, ME |
Day 4: White Mountains, New Hampshire
The journey continues to White Mountains, New Hampshire on our 4th day. It’s time to immerse and engage with some of the most glorious landscapes in the New England area.
One of the must-see attractions is the Franconia Notch State Park. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a nature lover’s utopia. Hiking, fly fishing, wildlife-viewing, and admiring the cascading waterfalls aren’t just activities – they’re an experience.
Next, we have the iconic Mount Washington. Reaching 6,288 feet in altitude, it’s the highest mountain peak in the Northeast. For adventure seekers, it provides opportunity for hiking, climbing, and even guided tours on the Mount Washington Auto Road. There, you’ll witness panoramic views that not only stretch across New Hampshire but, on a clear day, extend as far as the Atlantic Ocean.
Once descended from Mount Washington, there are places to relax and refresh. Grab a bite at one of the local diners, I highly recommend trying out the region’s famous apple cider donuts! If time permits, a visit to the Sabbaday Falls – an easy hike with rewarding views of the falls – should be on your itinerary.
Let’s talk about a slightly more hidden treasure, the Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves. Here, you’ll wander through a mesmerizing series of caves and waterfalls, formed by the powerful currents of the Lost River.
After a day filled with experiences, it’s time to rest up at one of the region’s comfortable lodgings. On the next day we’ll take the scenic tour of Stowe, Vermont.
Day 5: Burlington, Vermont
From the White Mountains, the road leads us to Burlington, Vermont’s largest city. Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, it greets its visitors with scenic beauty and a hip, friendly vibe.
Start your day with a stroll down Church Street Marketplace, the heart of Burlington. This pedestrian-only street is filled with local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and live street performances. You’ll quickly notice that Burlington’s community has a strong commitment to supporting local businesses. A quick stop at a local café or diner for a Vermont-style breakfast is a must and adds to the authentic experience!
As morning wanes into afternoon, it’s time to indulge in Burlington’s outdoor offerings. Adjourn to the Waterfront Park, a green space with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Take a leisurely bike ride or grab a kayak to explore the lake’s tranquility. Breathtaking panoramas, fresh air, and outdoor fun – Burlington doesn’t hold back.
It wouldn’t be authentic Vermont if we didn’t acknowledge its proud status as the state with the most breweries per capita in the USA. Post an active afternoon, a tour and tasting at one of the local breweries is just what you might expect to wrap the day. Vermont’s craft beer scene is notable, with breweries like Switchback Brewing Co and Magic Hat Brewing Company amongst the standouts. Don’t forget to raise a toast to your journey so far!
Burlington’s night scene doesn’t disappoint either. It’s well-known for its vibrant arts scene, so why not end the day with a show at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts? Be it music, dance, or theatre, there’s something for every preference. That’s your bustling day in Burlington, and there’s more adventure ahead.
The journey through New England isn’t over yet. It’s time to prepare for Day 6, as we move towards western Vermont into the heartland of the Green Mountain State. The charm of New England continues to weave its magic, promising diverse and exciting experiences every step of the way.
Day 6: Newport, Rhode Island
Welcome to the sixth day of our epic road trip. Newport in Rhode Island is the gem of the day, known for its Gilded Age mansions and yacht-filled harbor.
The morning should be reserved for a not-to-miss opportunity – a walking tour along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile public walkway bordering the shoreline. It’s an amazing blend of natural beauty and architectural history. You’ll pass alongside the impressive mansions once the summer homes of America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. These homes, such as The Breakers and Marble House, are now National Historic Landmarks.
The afternoon calls for a chilled-out sailing trip. After all, Newport is often called the Sailing Capital of the World. Enjoy the fresh Atlantic winds as you admire the coastline and luxuriate in the day.
Culture aficionados can also find their paradise in the Newport Art Museum. Their collection includes significant pieces from prominent artists throughout American history.
For dinner, Thames Street offers a plethora of dining choices. From seafood restaurants to vegetarian joints, you can find something to delight every palate. If you’re a seafood lover, a bowl of clam chowder – a New England specialty – is a must-try.
Despite the small size, Newport is packed with excitement. From enjoying breathtaking ocean views to diving deep into American history, your day would surely be eventful. While we’ve spent a day here, you’ll likely agree that it isn’t nearly enough to savor all that Newport offers.
Remember, just like previous days, there’s a lot to see and do in each of these destinations. So, it’s important to plan carefully to make the most of your day in Newport.
As the evening winds down, it’s time to look forward to our final day – Day 7 in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. But that, of course, is a story for another day.
Day 7: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Finally, we’ve reached our 7th day. But, marvelous Cape Cod, Massachusetts, promises there’s hardly a moment of disappointment on the horizon. Our day’s agenda teems with a list of promising attractions.
Starting the day early, I’ll suggest Main Street in Hyannis. It’s a commercial hive buzzing with quaint shops, art venues, and options for mouth-watering breakfast. An early morning stroll down the street gives you an authentic touch of local life, almost like a wake-up call to the senses.
Following this, you’d recall JFK once frequented this gorgeous seacoast. He left a legacy, though, in the form of the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. This museum offers a chance to peep into the life and times of this celebrated leader in the historical and picturesque context of Cape Cod. It’s an educational and visually rewarding venture.
For lunch, I’d recommend trying out the local seafood. Plenty of reputable establishments can serve up a delicious lobster or clam chowder, making you savour the real taste of New England.
The day’s not over yet! You mustn’t skip a trip to the Cape Cod National Seashore. It’s a dreamy expanse of sandy beaches, lighthouses, and dunes stretching 40 miles. The highlights include the iconic Nauset and Coast Guard beaches. This afternoon itinerary can be as relaxed or adventure-filled as you want. Swim, sunbathe, hike, or go bird-watching. Or, just prepare yourself for some flawless photos!
Conclusion
There you have it! A 7-day road trip through New England that’s sure to create lasting memories. This journey takes you from Boston’s historic sites to Portsmouth’s charming downtown, Portland’s seafood delights, and the breathtaking White Mountains. You’ll experience Burlington’s vibrant marketplace, Newport’s opulent mansions, and finally, the serene beauty of Cape Cod. It’s a trip that offers a little bit of everything – history, nature, food, and culture. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, hit the road and explore the beauty that New England has to offer. Trust me, it’s a trip you won’t soon forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the 7-day New England road trip start?
The road trip starts in Boston. Attractions include historical sites and exploring the North End.
What’s recommended to do in Portsmouth, New Hampshire?
In Portsmouth, you can explore the historic downtown area and visit the Strawbery Banke outdoor living history museum.
What activities can I find in Portland, Maine?
Portland is known for its seafood and outdoor activities. Discover the Portland Head Light and explore the Eastern Promenade.
Where can visitors go hiking in New Hampshire?
Visitors can enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing in the White Mountains, particularly at Franconia Notch State Park and Mount Washington.
What can one do in Burlington, Vermont?
In Burlington, explore the Church Street Marketplace, enjoy outdoor activities at Waterfront Park, and sample the local craft beer scene.
What are the attractions in Newport, Rhode Island?
Newport is known for its Gilded Age mansions and yacht-filled harbor. Walk along the Cliff Walk, sail, visit the Newport Art Museum, or dine on Thames Street.
What landmarks are there in Cape Cod, Massachusetts?
There’s the Main Street in Hyannis, the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, and the Cape Cod National Seashore. The local seafood is a must-try.
