New England Road Trip

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Take a New England Road Trip and Experience Beautiful Mountains, Fall Foliage, Stunning Beaches, and Historic Communities

Six states, 71,991 square miles, and over 14 million people make up the northeast region of the United States known as New England. All of the states are relatively close together, making them the perfect road trip destination. Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont were part of the original 13 colonies (Maine separated from Mass later), and are renowned for their beautiful fall foliage, stunning seascapes, towering mountains, and unique regional cuisine. Read on to find out where the best places to visit on your New England road trip are located, and what to expect when you get there.

The Major Cities of New England 

Cities to visit on your road trip

Right: Public Gardens in the Fall, Boston, MA
Public Gardens in the Fall, Boston, MA Photographic Print


New England is centralized by the city of Boston, which serves as the hub for the six states, but has several other major cities and destinations. In Connecticut, the capitol of Hartford is in the epicenter of the state, while interesting architecture and the famous Yale University can be found further south in New Haven. Further along I-95, you'll find Providence, which has excellent Italian restaurants, fascinating animals at the Roger Williams Zoo, and a Dunkin' Donuts on every corner. To the south, Newport, Rhode Island is home to some of the most beautiful mansions in the world. Many of these mansions belonged to well known wealthy families like the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and the Astors. To the east, the former whaling capitol of the world, New Bedford, has deep historical roots and preserved cobblestone roads.

Farther north are the I-90 cities of Worcester and Springfield, with Vermont's mountain city of Rutland to the north. Burlington, Vermont is the largest city in the state and offers gorgeous views of Lake Champlain. New Hampshire's cities are relatively small, but does have Manchester and Portsmouth to the south. Maine's Portland is an old style city with charming shops, churches, and incredible views of the seaport.

Lighthouses of New England 

Visit the historical lighthouse treasures on the coastline

Portland Head Lighthouse on Cape Elizabeth, Portland, Maine, USA
Lighthouses, both active and inactive, dot the shoreline of New England from the New York-Connecticut border all the way to the Maine-Canada border. Each state, including the brief shoreline of New Hampshire, has exceptional views of lighthouses on the coast, and sometimes along the craggy shoals. These old structures provide a glimpse of a time gone by, when the coastline wasn't as developed as it currently is, sophisticated navigational aids did not exist, and when shipping via boat was the only option. Some of the more famous lighthouses in New England are Highland or Cape Cod Light in Truro, MA, Minot Light in Scituate, MA, Boston Light in the harbor of the capitol city, Portland Head Lighthouse in Maine, and the often photographed West Quoddy Head Lighthouse near the Canadian border.

Nobska Lighthouse by Per Ola Wiberg (Powi)

bass.jpg by auburnxc

Burlington Breakwater South Lighthouse by Tony the Misfit

New Haven Lighthouse (with history) by Tony the Misfit

Portsmouth Harbor Light by smellyknee

castle hill light by case_rums

curated content from Flickr

The Different Seasons of New England 

Four distinct seasons shape New England's personality

The seasons are what drive New England and set it apart from much of the rest of the country. Unlike anywhere else in the country, the northeast experiences four distinct seasons, with rough, snowy winters, mild, rainy springs, scorching hot and humid summers, and dry, colorful autumns. The constant change is what makes the area so unique, and each season has its own set of activities and events to embrace the ushering in of the time of year. Fall festivals, summer fireworks, spring cleanups, and winter skiing will give you an idea of what makes New England home to over 7 million people.

Islands of New England 

Islands large and small off the NE coast

Right: Rocky Coast of Isle Au Haut, Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
Rocky Coast of Isle Au Haut, Acadia National Park, Maine, USA Photographic Print

Thousands of islands are located just offshore of every state, Vermont included, in New England. Some you've probably heard of, like Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket and Block Island, but the area has many equally impressive destinations to choose from like Monomy Island, Plum Island, and Isle au Haut. Here's a list of some of the premiere island destinations:

Thimble Islands
Cruise along the Thimble Islands of Connecticut aboard Captain Bob's tours and private charters!

Block Island
Rhode Island's most famous island, filled with giant bluffs and sandy beaches.

Nantucket
One of the most pristine and protected areas of Massachusetts, Nantucket is a giant tourist destination for MA residents and far away tourists.

Martha's Vineyard
Find charming villages, lighthouses, sand and surf at Martha's Vineyard, located south of Wood's Hole, MA.

Monomoy Island
Monomoy Island is located south of Chatham, MA, and has no human inhabitants. It is however, home to migrating birds and gray seals.

Plum Island
On the north shore of Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border is Plum Island. Lighthouses, restaurants, and the wide expanses of salt marshes are subject to occasional visits by migrating Snowy Owls and the Piping Plover.

Boston Harbor Islands
It's a National Park designated area consisting of many small islands containing lighthouses, old historic forts, and beautiful views of the city.

Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island contains the amazing sites of Acadia National Park.

Isle au Haut
Right outside of Isle au Haut is Acadia National Park, both of which are on scenic Penobscot Bay.

Monhegan Island
Halfway up the coast of Maine is Monhegan Island, ten miles from the coast, and only accessible via boat.

Food of New England 

A best of list of regional cuisine from the six states

So what's the food like in New England? It's one of the most eclectic places for influence, yet the original food of the area still holds its integrity. Favorite foods also vary by state, even though they are all very close. Connecticut and Rhode Island have favorites like johnnycakes, Del's Lemonade, clam bakes, and coffee milk (that's coffee syrup stirred into milk). In Massachusetts, there's a strong seafood influence, with famous Ipswich clams, local Cod from the Cape, and truly "American" food that you would picture at Thanksgiving feasts like cranberries and turkey. North in Vermont and New Hampshire, food becomes more dependent on cheese, dairy, and maple syrup with local cheese shops, maple syrup farms, and fresh locally grown produce. To the east, Maine has the best lobster in the country, along with the best blueberries and maybe even potatoes.

If you're in the area for a short time, you may want to try lobster, clam chowder, maple syrup based bakery items, and a traditional New England breakfast. It's what they do best.

Edaville Cranberry Bog 3 by AndWat

Clam Chowder by Svadilfari

Thanksgiving turkey by antonellomusina

Lobster - London Bridge, London, England - Friday 7th September 2007 by law_keven

Bacon-wrapped scallops by Fuzzy Gerdes

baked beans by rick

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie by Bekathwia

Cape Cod Summer 2008 by eralon

apples by djprybyl

Pancakes and Maple Syrup by Svadilfari

Maple syrup by Michael Maniezzo

Cold-Brewed Iced Coffee by thebittenword.com

Maine Blueberries by ChrisDag

Cheeses of Vermont by alaspoorwho

Proulx Maple Sugar Shack 2008 by DNAMichaud

Baked Cod by startcooking kathy & amandine

Chicken Parmesan, Tri-Color Fettucini, Home-Made Pasta Sauce, and Garlic Bread with Cheese by Eli Hodapp

Pizza in the North End by flour.arrangements

curated content from Flickr

New England Town and Country Cookbook 

Beyond lobster and clam chowder: some of New England's most interesting recipes

I've traveled all over the country, I live in New England, and I can honestly say (somewhat biased) that we have some of the best food in the country. Why? Maybe it's because it's the food that's been around for such a long time that it's been perfected, or that it's traditional, yet still interesting all of the time. I firmly believe that if you haven't have pizza in the northeast, you've never had pizza. The same goes for lobster and Italian food. Just like southern California probably does Mexican food the best, New England does seafood and Italian. This book goes way beyond those recipes, though, into some of the most interesting and tasty recipes ever found in New England.

The New England Cookbook: 350 Recipies from Town and Country, Land and Sea, Hearth and Home

Amazon Price: (as of 12/11/2009)Buy Now
Used Price: $1.99

This book includes more than 350 recipes, including traditional favorites such as Boston Clam Chowder, but unusual treats like Berkshire Puffed Apple Skillet-Baked Pancake, Hester's Sour Lemon Pudding Cake, Best Maine Blueberry Pie, Portuguese Chourico, Peppers, and Onion Grinder, and Vermont Pizza.

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What to See in Connecticut 

Seaside towns, wine trails, museums and activities in the Constitution State

Right: Connecticut - Wine Country Scene
Connecticut - Wine Country Scene Giclee Print


Connecticut is an eclectic state offering entirely different activities and sites in each portion of the state. The coastline offers beautiful beaches, cities, and lighthouses, while just inland lies the Connecticut wine country trail. Further north, the town of Waterbury is nestled into the hills, surrounded by quaint New England villages. Hartford is the state's commercial and historical center, right on the Connecticut River, with renowned art museums and famous Nook Farm, former homes of Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Here are some other must-see attractions on your road trip route:

Southford Falls State Park
Beautiful cascading falls in the forest scenery of Southford Falls State Park.

Ocean Beach Park in New London
Often named the best beach in Connecticut, this is right off of I-95, an easy drive from Mystic. Beautiful white sandy beaches and activities make this a must-visit.

Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is perfectly preserved, complete with bayside lighthouse, standing tall ships, and the museums to browse.

Wadsworth Atheneum
The country's first public art museum, with artworks dating back thousands of years. Specializing in American artwork, but not limited to it, this museum is located in downtown Hartford.

Connecticut Wine Trail
Over a dozen wineries can be visited along Connecticut's wine trail, a great experience for any wine lover or novice.

Here's a good list of 50 more fun things to do in Connecticut.

Fall Colors Connecticut 13 by lemoncat1

New Haven Lighthouse (with history) by Tony the Misfit

memory lane*; Hartford skyline by Global Jet

Yale, November 2008: Internet Society Project Talk by Marc_Smith

Mystic Seaport 4 by lemoncat1

Whaling Ship in Mystic Sea Port by david.nikonvscanon

curated content from Flickr

Don't Forget your Trip to Connecticut 

Sweatshirts, t-shirts and stickers to remember your road trip

Connecticut is more than just a single highway that passes between New York and Rhode Island, it's a hot bed of historical lighthouses, beaches, old cities, art museums, excellent seafood restaurants, preserved Revolutionary War era towns, and backcountry wine trails. These t-shirts, sweatshirts and stickers will help you remember your trip here forever. (By the way, you can click through any item to search for more).

Blue Classic Connecticut Hooded Sweatshirt

A blue classic arched Connecticut logo on this warm hooded sweatshirt. Perfect for fall and winter in New England.

Price: 39.99 Buy Now

Connecticut: Hiding the poor people in the back si

This funny t-shirt features a slogan that's great for anyone that gets the joke (you don't have to live in CT to wear it, either).

Price: 19.99 Buy Now

Connecticut State Flag Sticker (Oval)

The Connecticut flag featured on this cool oval sticker, complete with the crest and all.

Price: 4.99 Buy Now

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Mystic, Connecticut: A Fast Drive Through Town 

Watch this video to get a quick tour of the town of Mystic

Unlike anything else in New England, except for parts of Plymouth, MA, Mystic preserves the original maritime history of this small port on the southeastern coast of Connecticut. This video will give you a good idea of what to expect in this interesting town along the Rhode Island border:

Mystic CT Fast Forward Drive

Mystic CT Fast Forward Drive

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What to See in Rhode Island 

Sightseeing destinations and things to do in the Ocean State

Right: Newport Blues
Newport Blues Art Print, Newport Bridge in a still fog.


Newport
Newport might just be the nicest place in New England along the coast. The striking rocky cliffs are decorated with mansions, old and new, along Bellevue Drive and Ocean Drive (a trip you'll never forget).

Roger Williams Zoo
Roger Williams Zoo in Providence has an eclectic range of animal species, all kept within a relatively small distance. This makes the zoo easy to visit in just a half day or less (come early on the weekends especially however).

Sakonnet Vineyards
Sakonnet Point, opposite Newport, is located in Little Compton Rhode Island. A leisurely drive down this peninsula will lead to this remote winery offering wines grown right on the coast, an unexpected treat in this part of New England.

Rhode Island Beaches
Rhode Island isn't renowned for their beaches, but that's because they're a well-kept secret. Secret's out now, they're some of the best in New England.

Jamestown Rhode Island (Conanicut Island)
The small island of Conanicut is west of Newport, linked by the famous Newport Bridge. It's small, but rural and untouched, with grazing sheep, a small village center, lighthouses, windmills, parks, and views of the city across the Narragansett Bay.

Federal Hill
Federal Hill boasts some of the best Italian restaurants in the northeast, gallery shopping and nightlife in downtown Providence.

Brenton Point State Park
Brenton Point State Park defines Rhode Island and Newport. It's the tip of Narragansett Bay, always a bit cooler than the mainland, and just minutes from downtown Newport. Stop and watch the boats drift by, bring a kite to fly on the windy rocks, or search around for marine life in the tidal pools that the crashing waves leave behind daily.

Right: Driftwood on the Beach with a Lighthouse in the Background, Block Island, Rhode Island
Driftwood on the Beach with a Lighthouse in the Background, Block Island, Rhode Island Photographic Print


Block Island

To the west of Martha's Vineyard, east of Long Island, lies Block Island. High cliffs and inaccessibility preserve its uniqueness and Rhode Island charm. The island can be reached by ferry, but should be booked far in advance during the summer.

Blackstone River Bikeway
The Blackstone River Valley is experiencing a big resurgence and a massive undertaking in the form of the newly constructed Blackstone River Bikeway. This beautiful area winds through hills, rivers, small towns, and connects the 2nd and 3rd largest cities of New England, Worcester and Providence. 10 miles of the path are complete, and construction is ongoing.

Here's an excellent list of more things to do in Rhode Island.

The Newport Mansions of Rhode Island 

A video of the famous historical buildings of the Victorian era

Rhode Island has preserved all of the mansions in Newport Rhode Island that have been donated to the Historical Society, as you can see in this video. What's interesting is that many of the mansions are still in use by wealthy families in Newport to this day.

Enchantment

A collection of mansions and landscape, mostly from the Newport, RI area, set to the soundtrack "Enchantment" by Yanni.

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14587 views
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curated content from YouTube

Something to Remember the Ocean State by... 

T-shirts, stickers and postcards featuring Rhode Island

These customized t-shirts, stickers and postcards are a great idea if you forgot to pick up your souvenir while you were in town. Nothing looks better on your car than an oval sticker expressing your love for the ocean state!

I Love Rhode Island Sticker

If you've been to Rhode Island, you'll want this sticker. I heart Rhode Island is an understatement considering the beautiful scenery.

Price: 3.49 Buy Now

Rhode Islander Yellow T-Shirt

A funny t-shirt for Rhode Island residents and passers-by, available in many styles and colors.

Price: 18.99 Buy Now

Rectangle Magnet - Goat Island Lighthouse

The beautiful Newport Bridge and Goat Island Lighthouse glimmer in the dusk skies of Rhode Island.

Price: 4.99 Buy Now

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What to See in Massachusetts 

Beach destinations, historic buildings, and offshore islands in MA

Rockport, Massachusetts, USA
Rockport, Massachusetts, USA Premium Photographic Print

Masachusetts will take you across the winding backroads of the Berkshires, down to the rolling dunes of Cape Cod, and up to the rocky shores of Rockport all within a few hours drive of each other. The state has great charm and historical significance. The roots of America are planted deeply into towns like Lexington, Concord, and Plymouth, while the capitol of Boston serves as the financial hub of all of New England and the state of Massachusetts.

Boston
Travel to the economic, social, and cultural center of New England to experience the museums, islands, villages, and libraries this world renowned city has to offer.

Quabbin Reservoir
This area is set aside as a giant drinking water supply for Massachusetts, serving over 2 million people, but also has incredible hiking around the reservoir.

Cape Cod
Cape Cod is the key attraction of Massachusetts, with millions heading to the island-like peninsula every year. This page will give you some of the ten best places to visit on the Cape.

Rockport
This seaside village on the coast of Cape Anne is an artist's colony and fisherman's town, with beautiful aged buildings, restaurants and lighthouses on the rocky shore.

The Berkshires
Mountainside towns like Lenox, Lee, and Williamstown make the Berkshires an interesting road trip destination in Massachusetts, with historic museums, rolling hills, and colorful mountains.

My personal favorite spot in Massachusetts: The unspoiled beaches of Cape Cod are some of the best in the country. Towns like Chatham, Harwich, and the shoreside villages of Nauset give the greatest example of "cape life."

 

The Massachusetts State House (1798) (1 of 2) by Tony the Misfit

View of the Berkshires by jbcurio

Martha's Vineyard Harbor, 6:30 AM by bowena

Downtown Nantucket by versageek

curated content from Flickr

The Weather in Boston Right Now: 

Current weathah report for Boston...

Current weather conditions in Boston, MA

Local Pollen Reports

23°F (Feels like 10°F)

Last update: 12/12/09 3:54 AM EST

Humidity: 41%
Visibility: 10.0 mi
Dew Point: 6°F
UV Index: 0 (Lawn and Garden Weather)
Barometer: 30.24in rising
Moon: Rush Hour Traffic
Wind: 16mph From: Airport Conditions
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Today


Fair
High: 32°F
Low: 22°F
Sunrise: 7:04 AM
Sunset: 4:12 PM

Sunday
Dec 13 


Sunny
High: 43°F
Low: 36°F
Sunrise: 7:05 AM
Sunset: 4:12 PM

Monday
Dec 14 


PM Showers
High: 44°F
Low: 34°F
Sunrise: 7:06 AM
Sunset: 4:12 PM

Tuesday
Dec 15 


Partly Cloudy
High: 45°F
Low: 30°F
Sunrise: 7:07 AM
Sunset: 4:12 PM

What to See in Boston 

The centerpiece of your road trip

Boston is the commercial hub of New England, and also an incredible city that you can't leave out of your trip. Fenway Park, Copley Square, The Boston Harbor Islands, The North End, Long Wharf... these are all things that exude New England, and they're cultural icons of the region.

A Trip to the Bay State Wouldn't Be Complete Without a Souvenir! 

Unique t-shirts and stickers featuring Massachusetts slogans and symbols

Sure, there's those typical t-shirts you can find in the tourist stores, but if you forgot yours, these are excellent substitutes.
Right: Cape Cod Sail
Cape Cod Sail Art Print

Kickin' Ass in Mass White T-Shirt

Kickin' ass in Mass, the unofficial slogan for the locals.

Price: 19.99 Buy Now

Massachusetts Jr. Ringer T-Shirt

Massachusetts... a wicked good time. Be prepared to start using the word "wicked" a lot more now that you're in the bay state.

Price: 23.99 Buy Now

MA State ID Sticker (Oval)

MA, the official State ID for Massachusetts on this oval bumper sticker.

Price: 3.99 Buy Now

White T-Shirt

The Massachusetts turtle rescue, helping turtles reach the sea and ensure survival.

Price: 20.99 Buy Now

Boston Skyline Yellow Type Baseball Jersey

The beautiful skyline of Boston on this baseball style jersey shirt, available in red and blue also.

Price: 21.99 Buy Now

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Beaches of the South Shore 

Massachusett's beautiful South Shore beaches

Explore the small towns and white sand beaches of the South Shore, in old towns like Plymouth, Marshfield, Scituate, Hull, Hingham, and Duxbury.

Cape Cod and the Islands 

Rolling sand dunes and pristine beaches on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket

As of the minute you cross into Massachusetts on your road trip, start calling Cape Cod just "the Cape." Otherwise, you'll stick out like a sore thumb. This video points out some of the finer points of the Cape and Islands. You'll first be greeted by the Cape Cod Canal and the Railroad Bridge just before entering the town of Bourne. The trip to the end of the Cape takes roughly 90 minutes - 2 hours in no traffic.

Cape Cod and the Islands, Massachusetts, USA

A movie made after a trip to Cape Cod, a lovely area of cobblestone streets and unique charm. Lots of pics of Nantucket Island, Boston, Provincetown, and historical landmarks like Beacon Hill, Boston Common, Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II, Kennedy Memorial and lots of other sites including the original site of "Cheers". Hope you enjoy. The music is "Old Cape Cod" by Anne Murray.

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What to See in New Hampshire 

Mountain lakes, deep forests, and scenic backroad highways make a great road trip in New Hampshire

Right: Kancamagus Highway Sabbaday Falls, New Hampshire
Kancamagus Highway Sabbaday Falls, New Hampshire
Photographic Print


Laconia
Home to the famous bike week of New Hampshire, Laconia's atmosphere feeds off the beautiful Lake Winnipeasaukee nearby.

North Conway
Sitting at the base of Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is known for its unique shops, splendid views, and year-round appeal for skiing, dining, and shopping.

Franconia Notch State Park
Perhaps the most beautiful area of New Hampshire is Franconia Notch State Park. This area was once the home of the Man on the Mountain (an oddly shaped rocky face which resembled an old man's face), which has since crumbled. However, the mountain views are still some of the best in the country and not to be missed.

Portsmouth
Portsmouth has a small but beautiful shoreline with historic boats, shoals, and the often photographed Cape Neddick Lighthouse.

Mount Sunapee Region
This region of New Hampshire is known for its easily accessible ski resort and crystal clear Lake Sunapee.

New Hampshire Foliage by Svadilfari

Waterfall in Franconia Notch, NH by Kevin Bedell

View from top of Cannon Mtn., Franconia Notch, NH by lori05871

Mount Washington by pfly

Beaver Brook Falls by aliwest44

Memorial Bridge by cliff1066â„¢

curated content from Flickr

Brilliant Fall Foliage, Mountains, and Scenery in New Hampshire 

A video that captures the beautiful sites of the land of the free

Live free or die. That's New Hampshire's state motto, and if you don't believe it, you will once you see that the liquor is tax free once you cross the border into the state. Besides being tax free, the state has amazing mountain views at Franconia Notch State Park, an impressive small coastline in Portsmouth, and crystal clear lakes distributed throughout. The video below will give you a virtual tour of some of the great destinations to visit on your road trip, some which are best seen in the autumn months.

Ode to New Hampshire

A video montage in honour of one of the most beautiful states in America, New Hampshire.

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Rustic New Hampshire Inspired Apparel 

T-shirts and stickers for you, your baby and your friends

Mount Washington, New Hampshire - Cog Railroad

Vintage New Hampshire Black Infant Creeper

A vintage arched logo on this cute infant onesie shirt that reads (what else?) "New Hampshire."

Price: 11.99 Buy Now

The Ski New Hampshire Shop Jr. Raglan

Ski New Hampshire.. a funny design on this trendy womens raglan t-shirt.

Price: 20.99 Buy Now

New Hampshire NH Euro Oval Sticker with Moose

A moose pokes his head through the letter "N" in "New Hampshire" on this oval sticker, which would look awesome on your car, truck or boat.

Price: 4.49 Buy Now

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Best Loved Driving Tours of New England 

Road trip gems across the six states of N.E.

The roads of New England were planned out long ago, and have a meandering, old world feel and influence that is hard to explain. However, this guide manages to do so very well. From the famous Kangamagus Highway to the King's Highway scenic road of Cape Cod, this book will point out the best places to see across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Mass, and Connecticut. A map won't cut it when trying to find the best sites, so this handy reference guide is very recommended for any trip to the northeast.

Frommer's New England's Best-Loved Driving Tours (Best Loved Driving Tours)

Amazon Price: (as of 12/12/2009)Buy Now
Used Price: $19.36

* 23 distinctive, easy-to-use itineraries--all fully illustrated with beautiful full-color photos
* Tips on the best hotels and restaurants along each route
* Exact directions, distances, and driving times for each route
* All the sights along the way--with highlights for history buffs, nature lovers, and families traveling with kids
* Scenic side trips, special moments, and recommended walks
* Detailed, accurate full-color route-planning maps

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What to See in Maine 

Maine's spectacular seashore, including Acadia National Park and Portland

Right: Penobscot Bay, Maine
Penobscot Bay, Maine Art Print


Portland
Portland is one of the best cities in America, according to many surveys, to live and to visit. With unique restaurants, an easygoing attitude, and incredible marine scenery, the city is located on the cold waters of Casco Bay.

Acadia National Park
Acadia, located on Mount Desert Island, is the most visited natural scenic destination within the state. The rugged coastline offers unmatched views of the crashing Atlantic waves, while the original carriage roads of the park have been preserved to hike and bike.

The Maine Coast
The Maine coast has some of the most photographed towns in the USA, like Bath, Rockland, and Bar Harbor, which will be understandable once you visit these shore communities.

Bangor
Further inland is the state capitol, Bangor, which is the hub of northern Maine, and lies on the Penobscot River.

Kittery
Kittery is the first town over the New Hampshire border, and known for its hundreds of shopping outlets and stores.

Quoddy Head State Park
Quoddy Head is located on the Canada-U.S. border, and is best known for its red and white striped lighthouse, West Quoddy Head Light. The park also has miles of forest and hiking trails to enjoy and explore.

Maine-sunset by indywriter

Maine Stream by topazz1963

Sand Beach, Acadia National Park by Lee Coursey

Acadia National Park by Lee Coursey

West Quoddy Head Light Station by qnr

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Acadia National Park 

The seaside beauty of Maine's Acadia National Park in this video

Acadia National Park is one of the few National Parks in New England, and one of the greatest in the country. Drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, where the first rays of sunlight hit the United States every morning, or drive the rustic backroads that hug the jagged shoreline.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Here are some interesting pictures from Acadia National Park in Maine. Interesting to see how the same scene can change with the seasons! Music is "Mountain Aire"; a quick piece I wrote to see if I could do anything with guitar and harmonica. Acadia is truly a place to be for those who love the outdoors. Hike, bike, kayak, do volunteer work (Friends of Acadia) or just plain RELAX, Acadia is whatever you want it to be!

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Unique Maine Themed T-Shirts and Sweatshirts 

Something to remember your trip by...

It's All About Me Women's Cap Sleeve T-Shirt

It's the "me" generation, so wear a shirt that tells everyone that you don't care about anything but "ME"!

Price: 21.99 Buy Now

I Love Maine White T-Shirt

A red lobster in the place of the heart on this white t-shirt has it right. Tell the world, be proud, "I Love Maine!"

Price: 20.99 Buy Now

Bar Harbor Maine Jr. Raglan

Bar Harbor is one of the key tourist destinations in the state, with nearby Acadia National Park and Cadillac Mountain just minutes away.

Price: 23.99 Buy Now

Proud Loon-Maine: Jr. Ringer T-Shirt

One of the birds you might see in Maine is featured on this womens ringer shirt.

Price: 21.99 Buy Now

Vintage Maine Blue Sweatshirt

A vintage style blue sweatshirt featuring a classic block lettering. Keep warm while looking very New England.

Price: 32.99 Buy Now

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What's Your Favorite New England State? 

Vote on your favorite state!

New England- Go Greyhound
New England- Go Greyhound Masterprint

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What to See in Vermont 

The Green Mountains, rolling farms, and small towns in Vermont

Right: Stowe Autumn with Steeple, Vermont, USA
Stowe Autumn with Steeple, Vermont, USA Photographic Print


Vermont is the northwestern most state in New England, directly adjacent to New York and New Hampshire. The state is known for the Green Mountains, a region on the western stretch of the state that contains unmatched farmland scenery. To the north lies Lake Champlain, one of the largest bodies of fresh water in the United States, and the largest city, Burlington. To the south, Route 12 is one of the best sightseeing paths to take in the entire state, winding up and down mountains, weeving into small towns, farms, and alongside creeks and waterfalls. Each section of the state is very distinct, but they all share the same rustic appeal that makes the state so interesting.

The Green Mountains
Part of the Appalachian mountain range expanse, the Green Mountains are how the state got its name. Translated from French, Verts Monts is "green mountains."

Woodstock
It's not the home of the famous 60's festival, it's a small community on Route 4 n the middle of the state, often named the most beautiful in the country.

Stowe
Stowe is one of the premiere ski getaways in the state, nestled between Mount Mansfield and the Green Mountains. It has some excellent spas, some of the best reviewed restaurants in New England, and gorgeous views.

Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is located on the Vermont-New York border, home to an underwater ancient reef, and actually runs partially into Canadian territory. The massive lake stretches over nearly half the western border of the state. The city of Burlington is located right on the shore of the lake.

Montpelier
The beautiful town of Montpelier is the state capitol, but also a quaint town enveloped by mountains, rivers, and forests. Characteristic of the state, the Capitol Building is set in a rural setting, surrounded by blooming flowers and a booming tourist scene in the summer.

Route 100
If you only have time to visit one area of Vermont, visit the scenic Route 100. This road trip favorite winds from north to south (or vice versa) through much of the state, including the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, Stowe Recreation Path, and countless villages, stores, and churches. The road is particularly well traveled in the autumn months when foliage is at its peak.

Vermont Winter Landscape by nosha

Vermont Statehouse by Tony the Misfit

USA 2006 (October 15th) Vermont by Paraflyer

USA 2006 (October 15th) Vermont by Paraflyer

Paradise by SnapsterMax

Lake Champlain by Ctwirler12

curated content from Flickr

Rustic Style Vermont T-Shirts 

Stickers, t-shirts and more to remember your trip

The Ottauquechee River, Quechee Gorge, Vermont

Vermont Infant/Toddler T-Shirt

A cute toddler t-shirt that your kid will appreciate. Everyone loves Vermont!

Price: 10.79 Buy Now

Vermont VT oval sticker with green background.

A classic Vermont oval sticker, it was born to be on your bumper.

Price: 4.49 Buy Now

Vermont Women's Light T-Shirt

Vermont chicks get noticed more, and you could too with this hip t-shirt.

Price: 23.99 Buy Now

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Vermont and New Hampshire are in an odd position with each other, as this funny mens ringer shirt points out.

Price: 16.99 Buy Now

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Foliage, Skiing, Nature and Wildlife in Killington, Vermont 

Experience all Mount Killington has to offer in this video

Killington is located east of Rutland, Vermont, west of Woodstock, VT. It's the largest mountain in Vermont, and the biggest ski destination in the state. The mountain experiences brilliant fall foliage and has lifts that head up the mountain all year long. Find the resort on US 4, an incredible drive through Vermont's green mountains and Queechee Gorge.

Skiing Remix at Killington Vermont

Downhill skiing at Killington Mountain. Cool colors of the Gondola, sweet powder and pack powder. Spring skiing should be awesome.

Runtime: 118
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curated content from YouTube

The Latest Blogs About New England 

Current blog posts updated every 30 minutes...

New England Patriots
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady practices Friday for ...
Learn More » Report a bug » Feedback » Brady Injury Update FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- After missing practices on Wednesday and Thursday, New England.
Snowmen, Dogs, & Surf- Tim's Friday Pics : Weather New England
A major storm with record early snow in Houston Texas, then suddenly winter in New England. Though we still have flowers in bloom, and surfers riding off our shore, Ski Season got a huge Kick start this week with several days of snow. ...
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady practices Friday for ...
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady practices Friday for first time this week.
NFL-New England Patriots | ed hardy shoes
New england patriots latest new england patriots news stories at examiner. com. New england patriots - nfl team - the new york times media in category ?new england patriots? the following 35 files are in this category, out of 35 total. ...

The words that might confuse you

in New England are anything ending in "R," as you probably already know. Whatever you do, don't try to impersonate the accent around a New Englanda, and don't say that you're a Yankees fan (seriously, don't).

A Guide to New England, DK Eyewitness Travel Book 

A recommended travel guide for your trip

If you've read any of my other road trip guides, you'll know that I'm a big fan of DK Eyewitness Travel Guides. Why? They're small, easy to read, and easy to take with you on your trip. They don't bend or tear easily, and they don't take up a lot of room. The also aren't full of big blocks of text, and are nicely illustrated so you'll get some important visuals of New England (or any other place you might be visiting, if you're interested in their other guides). I haven't been wronged by these books yet.

New England (DK Eyewitness Travel Guide)

Amazon Price: (as of 12/11/2009)Buy Now
Used Price: $25.47

New England: a land for all seasons and for all senses; from New England's snowy winters and temperate summers to its pine scented forests, its sweet lobster to its delicate oysters, this guide will cover it all. Fully updated and expanded, this guide provides comprehensive guidance on the wealth of outdoor activities, including the best fishing, hiking, rafting and skiing in the United States to the white-steepled churches, craggy coastlines and immaculate village greens, with all the essential information, whatever your budget.

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What's Your Favorite Spot in New England? 

Tweet your favorite spot to visit in any state in New England!

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Colorful fall foliage, found on Mount Killington in late September

Take Another Road Trip Across the Country! 

Go across the United States to these different areas...

Plan another vacation getaway on the road to these various destinations...

How to Plan Out Your U.S. Road Trip 

An all inclusive how-to on planning out your road trip

How much do you pack? What should you bring? What shouldn't you bring? How can I save some cash on my trip? The answers to these questions and many more can be found on the following page about planning out your road excursion across America:

Where to Stay in New England 

Places to stay and how to find them

Right: Rental Cottages Along a Cape Cod Beach
Rental Cottages Along a Cape Cod Beach
Photographic Print


New England is best seen by car, and on your road travels, you'll come across the big chain hotels as well as some small bed and breakfasts and inns. Use your own judgement, along with TripAdvisor.com to tell you where the best places might be. Most people prefer to experience New England for what it is, and you can't really get that feeling by staying at some of the bigger chain hotels. There are some exceptions where the big chains have acquired historical buildings, but for the most part, the best places are those small B&B's, inns, and cottages.

Have You Ever Visited New England? Have a Favorite Spot to Share? 

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Photo credit:

The beautiful Vermont introduction photo is by Paraflyer under Creative Commons 2.0.

More Travel Destinations in the United States: 

Road trips, National Parks, cities, and accomodations across America

Plan out your trip with these guides on some of America's best travel destinations. The following page is an index for all of my guides for U.S. destinations, including Yosemite, Death Valley, Washington DC, and other destinations across the country.

by kiwisoutback

A road trip to New England is one like no other, with beautiful mountains, beaches, and historical communities to explore and enjoy. (more)

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