Boston & New England holidays

When you think of New England holidays, you probably picture autumnal forests, pierced by the occasional white steeple of a small-town church. After all, New England is famous for its vibrant fall colours, as the trees burst into shades of red, orange, yellow, and even purple.
If you’re eager to see this flamboyant display for yourself, why not go a road trip – in either a hire car or motorhome – or join a group tour?

Starting in Boston, you can travel in a loop through Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Drive north along New England’s scenic coast to Maine, where Acadia National Park serves up hiking trails and glass-like lakes surrounded by. Next, head southwest towards New Hampshire. You can weave through the fiery forests of White Mountains National Park and marvel at the snow-dusted peak of Mount Washington. Then continue on to Vermont, where you can explore Gifford Woods State Park and Green Mountain National Forest. 

If you’re travelling with friends, though, you might find that lively Atlantic City is more your scene. At this beachside hub, you can have a flutter in the casinos, stroll along the famous boardwalk, and have a brilliant night out in one of the city’s many clubs.

At the other end of the spectrum, Philadelphia is ideal for history-lovers. Make sure you see the Liberty Bell, visit Independence Hall – where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 – and browse the museums along Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

The state capital of Massachusetts, Boston makes a brilliant starting point for your New England holiday. This city is home to fantastic museums and galleries, as well as some great craft breweries and top-notch restaurants. There are lots of historical attractions, too. You can amble down the cobbled streets of Beacon Hill – one of Boston’s prettiest neighbourhoods – and see Harvard University. And make sure you walk along the Freedom Trail. Starting at Boston Common, the trail will lead you past landmarks like the State House, King’s Chapel, Old South Meeting House, the Boston Massacre site, and many taverns where America’s “Founding Fathers” toasted freedom.

Want to see beyond Boston? Take a daytrip to Salem. A 30-minute drive away, this city is best known for its witch trials in the 1600s, and has a number of museums and historical sites. Or, if you fancy some beach time, make tracks for Cape Cod. Just an hour’s drive from Boston, this place is one of the USA’s loveliest seaside spots. Admire the views, stroll to colourful lighthouses and go whale-watching. Or take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard, where pristine beaches await.

Boston might be New England’s most well-known metropolis but, if you’re looking for an alternative city break, consider the coastal hubs of Newport and Portland. The most populated city in Maine, artsy Portland is teeming with galleries, theatres and museums. There’s all sorts of entertainment here, ranging from opera and ballet, to musicals and stand-up comedy. If you walk down to the waterfront, meanwhile, you’ll find powdery beaches, lighthouses and fishermen sailing in with their daily lobster catch. Try surfing or paddle-boarding, or leave it to the pros as you enjoy a delicious lunch of net-fresh seafood.

But if you’re looking for a taste of the VIP life, head to Newport in Rhode Island. A popular summer retreat for America’s millionaires, this city oozes style and glamour. Stroll along Bellevue Avenue and gawp at Gilded Age mansions, some of which are now museums. Watch yachts come and go in Newport Harbour. And explore the Downtown wharfs, where cobblestone lanes are lined with sleek galleries and award-winning restaurants. Fancy a daytrip? Go wine-tasting at a local vineyard or book a cruise to admire Rhode Island from afar.

New England is a huge region, with landscapes ranging from powdery beaches to snow-capped mountains. The climate is just as varied. So the best time for your New England holiday really depends on what you want to do.

If you’re drawn to the vibrant cities on the coast – like Boston, Newport and Portland – you should plan your trip for summer. Between May and August, you’ll be able to dine al fresco, go whale-watching, and try out watersports. Prefer to hit the slopes? Keen skiers should visit between December and April, when Vermont’s mountains are blanketed in snow.

As you might expect, though, New England holidays are most popular in autumn. If you’re desperate to see the iconic fall colours, you’ll need to book your getaway between mid-September and mid-October. Mother Nature’s timings are never exact but, usually, Maine’s forests peak in late-September, while Vermont and New Hampshire’s colours come alive in early October.