Best Family Vacations In New England: Top Destinations And Activities For All Ages

As someone who has lived in New England for years, I know firsthand how many amazing family vacation options there are in this region. With its charming small towns, beautiful beaches, and stunning fall foliage, New England is the perfect destination for families looking to make unforgettable memories together.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, New England has something for everyone. From the luxurious Cliff House Maine to the quaint town of Manchester, Vermont, there are countless family-friendly destinations to choose from. In this article, I will highlight some of the best family vacation spots in New England, based on my personal experiences and research.

Why Choose New England for Family Vacations

As someone who has traveled extensively throughout the United States, I can confidently say that New England is one of the best destinations for family vacations. Here are a few reasons why:

Natural Beauty

New England is known for its stunning natural beauty. From the rocky coastlines of Maine to the rolling hills of Vermont, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to take in. Families can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities in some of the most beautiful settings in the country.

History and Culture

New England is steeped in history and culture. Families can visit historic sites, museums, and cultural institutions to learn about the region's rich history. From the Freedom Trail in Boston to the Mark Twain House in Connecticut, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the region's past.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

New England has a wide variety of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Many of these accommodations offer activities and amenities specifically designed for families, such as kids' clubs, swimming pools, and outdoor recreation areas.

Delicious Food

New England is known for its delicious food, from fresh seafood to maple syrup. Families can enjoy local specialties like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and apple cider donuts. Many restaurants in the region offer kid-friendly menus and options for picky eaters.

Four Seasons of Fun

New England offers something for families in every season. In the summer, families can enjoy the beaches and lakes. In the fall, they can take in the stunning fall foliage. In the winter, they can hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding. And in the spring, they can enjoy the blooming flowers and warmer weather.

Overall, New England is a fantastic destination for families looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, history and culture, delicious food, and family-friendly accommodations.

Top Destinations in New England

As someone who has spent a lot of time traveling around New England, I can confidently say that this region is one of the best places for a family vacation. There is so much to see and do here, from exploring charming small towns to hiking in the mountains to relaxing on the beach. Here are some of the top destinations in New England that you should consider for your next family trip.

Maine

Maine is a great destination for families who love the outdoors. Acadia National Park is a must-visit, with its stunning coastline, mountains, and lakes. Families can hike, bike, kayak, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Portland is another great destination, with its historic Old Port district, delicious food, and family-friendly activities like the Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine.

Vermont

Vermont is a beautiful state with plenty to offer families. In the summer, families can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing on Lake Champlain, while in the winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular activities. Burlington is a great city to visit, with its pedestrian-friendly Church Street Marketplace and nearby Shelburne Museum, which has a large collection of Americana.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a great destination for families who love the outdoors. The White Mountains are a popular destination, with plenty of hiking trails, scenic drives, and family-friendly attractions like Story Land and Santa's Village. Families can also enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on the state's many lakes and rivers.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a lot to offer families, from the historic city of Boston to the beaches of Cape Cod. Boston is a great city to explore, with its Freedom Trail, museums, and family-friendly attractions like the New England Aquarium and the Boston Children's Museum. Cape Cod is a popular destination in the summer, with its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and family-friendly attractions like the Cape Cod National Seashore and the Cape Cod Children's Museum.

Connecticut

Connecticut may be a small state, but it has plenty to offer families. Mystic is a great destination, with its historic seaport, aquarium, and nearby Mystic Pizza (made famous by the movie of the same name). Families can also enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming in the state's many parks and lakes.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US, but it has plenty to offer families. Newport is a great destination, with its historic mansions, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions like the Newport Aquarium and the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Families can also enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming in the state's many parks and lakes.

Overall, New England is a great destination for families, with plenty to see and do in every state. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, historic sites, or simply a relaxing beach vacation, you'll find it all here.

Beach Vacations in New England

As a travel enthusiast, I can confidently say that New England has some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. With miles of sandy beaches, clear waters, and picturesque landscapes, New England beaches are perfect for a family vacation. Here are some of the best beach destinations in New England.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a popular beach destination in New England, known for its stunning beaches and charming small towns. With over 500 miles of coastline, Cape Cod offers a variety of beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches in Cape Cod include Nauset Beach, Coast Guard Beach, and Mayflower Beach. These beaches have calm waters, making them perfect for swimming and other water activities.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a beautiful island off the coast of Cape Cod, known for its pristine beaches and charming architecture. The island has over 80 miles of beaches, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular beaches in Nantucket include Children's Beach, Surfside Beach, and Madaket Beach. These beaches are perfect for families with children, as they have calm waters and plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained.

Block Island

Block Island is a small island off the coast of Rhode Island, known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty. The island has over 17 miles of beaches, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular beaches in Block Island include Crescent Beach, Mansion Beach, and Ballard's Beach. These beaches have crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

In conclusion, New England has some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous one, New England has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to New England for a memorable family vacation.

Mountain Vacations in New England

When it comes to family vacations in New England, mountain getaways are a popular choice. The region boasts two major mountain ranges: the White Mountains in New Hampshire and the Green Mountains in Vermont. Both offer a variety of activities and attractions for families to enjoy.

White Mountains

The White Mountains are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with several ski resorts offering a range of slopes for all skill levels. Some of the best known resorts in the area include:

• Bretton Woods: Known for its stunning views of Mount Washington and extensive trail system, Bretton Woods is a great choice for families looking to hit the slopes.
• Loon Mountain: With over 60 trails and a variety of terrain parks, Loon Mountain is a great choice for families with skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
• Cannon Mountain: Known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of Franconia Notch, Cannon Mountain is a great choice for experienced skiers and snowboarders.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the White Mountains offer a range of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. Families can also take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway or visit the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center.

Green Mountains

The Green Mountains offer a range of activities for families to enjoy year-round. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular at resorts such as:

• Killington: Known for its extensive trail system and lively après-ski scene, Killington is a great choice for families looking to hit the slopes.
• Stowe Mountain Resort: With a variety of terrain and a charming New England village at its base, Stowe is a great choice for families looking for a quintessential Vermont ski experience.
• Okemo: With over 120 trails and a range of family-friendly activities, Okemo is a great choice for families with skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

In the summer, families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip lining. The Green Mountains are also home to several charming towns, such as Woodstock and Manchester, where families can explore local shops and restaurants.

Overall, a mountain vacation in New England offers families a chance to enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

City Vacations in New England

If you're looking for a city vacation in New England, there are a few great destinations to consider. Here are two options to explore:

Boston

Boston is a bustling city with plenty of history, culture, and entertainment options. Some of the top attractions include the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and the Boston Common. Families with young children may enjoy the Boston Children's Museum or the New England Aquarium. Foodies will appreciate the seafood and Italian cuisine, while shoppers can explore the boutiques and markets in neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and the North End. Boston also has a great public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car.

Newport

If you're looking for a more laid-back city vacation, Newport, Rhode Island may be the perfect spot. This seaside town is known for its historic mansions, scenic harbor, and beautiful beaches. Families can take a tour of the famous Vanderbilt mansion, The Breakers, or explore the Newport Cliff Walk. Other popular activities include sailing, kayaking, and visiting the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Newport also has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.

Overall, both Boston and Newport offer unique and enjoyable city vacation experiences in New England.

Family-Friendly Activities in New England

As a travel enthusiast and a parent, I understand the importance of finding family-friendly activities during vacations. From theme parks to hiking trails, New England offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in New England:

• Story Land - Located in Bartlett, New Hampshire, Story Land is a theme park designed for young children. The park features over 20 rides and attractions, including a Cinderella-themed castle and a pirate ship ride.
• Roger Williams Park Zoo - The Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, is a perfect place for animal lovers. The zoo features over 100 species of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The zoo also offers various educational programs and events for children.
• Kayaking - New England has some of the most beautiful waterways in the country, and kayaking is a great way to explore them. From the calm waters of Lake Champlain to the rugged coastline of Maine, there are plenty of options for kayaking enthusiasts.
• Adventure Parks - If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, New England has several adventure parks that offer ziplining, rope courses, and other outdoor activities. Some of the popular ones include Alpine Adventures in Lincoln, New Hampshire, and TreeTop Adventures in Canton, Massachusetts.
• Hiking Trails - New England is known for its scenic hiking trails, and there are plenty of options for families with children. Some of the popular trails include the Franconia Ridge Loop in New Hampshire and the Mount Monadnock Trail in Jaffrey, New Hampshire.
• Cross-Country Skiing - Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy cross-country skiing in New England. Some of the popular ski resorts include Bretton Woods in New Hampshire and Trapp Family Lodge in Vermont.
• Horseback Riding - Horseback riding is a great way to explore the scenic countryside of New England. Some of the popular horseback riding destinations include the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont and the Acadia National Park in Maine.

In conclusion, New England offers a wide range of family-friendly activities suitable for all ages. Whether you're looking for theme parks, hiking trails, or adventure parks, there's something for everyone in New England.

Accommodations in New England

When it comes to accommodations in New England, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin or a luxurious hotel, New England has something for everyone. In this section, I will discuss the best accommodations in New England, including hotels, cabins and cottages, and family resorts.

Hotels

New England is home to many world-class hotels, ranging from historic properties to modern luxury accommodations. Some of the best hotels in New England include The Newbury Boston, The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square, and Cliff House Maine. These hotels offer a range of amenities, including spas, fine dining, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Cabins and Cottages

For those looking for a more rustic experience, New England has plenty of cabins and cottages to choose from. Some of the best options include the Tyler Place Family Resort in Highgate Springs, Vermont, and the Horseleg Hill Lodge in East Madison, New Hampshire. These properties offer cozy accommodations, beautiful views, and plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family.

Family Resorts

New England is also home to many family-friendly resorts that offer a range of activities and amenities for all ages. Some of the best family resorts in New England include Jay Peak Resort in Jay, Vermont, and Mountain Top Inn & Resort in Chittenden, Vermont. These resorts offer everything from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and horseback riding, making them the perfect destination for families looking to get away and enjoy the great outdoors.

In conclusion, New England offers a wide variety of accommodations for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy cabin, New England has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this beautiful region has to offer!

Dining Options in New England

New England is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a range of dining options for families. From seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants, there is something for everyone. Here are some of my top picks for dining options in New England:

Seafood Shacks

New England is famous for its seafood, and there's no better way to enjoy it than at a seafood shack. These casual eateries offer fresh seafood at affordable prices. Some of my favorites include:

• Elda: Located in Biddeford, Maine, Elda offers a unique take on seafood with dishes like grilled octopus and smoked bluefish pate.
• Palace Diner: This classic diner in Biddeford, Maine, serves up delicious lobster rolls and clam chowder.
• Rover Bagel: Located in Portland, Maine, this bagel shop offers a variety of bagels and cream cheese spreads, as well as smoked salmon and other deli items.

Fine Dining Restaurants

For a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of fine dining restaurants in New England. Here are a few of my recommendations:

• Elements: Located in Princeton, Massachusetts, Elements offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
• Part & Parcel: This restaurant in Cohasset, Massachusetts, offers a contemporary American menu with dishes like seared scallops and grilled lamb chops.
• Lorne Wine: This wine bar in Boston, Massachusetts, offers a small plates menu with dishes like charcuterie and grilled octopus.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

If you're traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants in New England. Here are some options that are sure to please everyone:

• Jackrabbit Cafe: This cafe in Brunswick, Maine, offers breakfast and lunch options like pancakes and sandwiches.
• Pepperell Provisions: Located in Pepperell, Massachusetts, this deli offers sandwiches and salads, as well as baked goods like muffins and cookies.
• Great Wolf Lodge: This resort in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, offers a variety of dining options, including a buffet and a pizza restaurant.

Whether you're looking for a casual seafood shack or an upscale fine dining restaurant, New England has plenty of dining options to choose from.

Location and Accessibility in New England

As someone who has traveled extensively throughout New England, I can confidently say that this region of the United States offers a variety of locations that are perfect for family vacations. From the rocky coast of Maine to the rolling hills of Vermont, there is something for everyone in New England.

One of the great things about New England is its accessibility. The region is well-connected by major highways, making it easy to get around and explore. Additionally, there are several airports throughout the region, including Boston Logan International Airport, which is a major hub for many airlines.

When it comes to choosing a location for your family vacation, there are several factors to consider. Do you want to be near the beach? Would you prefer a mountain retreat? Are you interested in exploring historical sites or cultural attractions? Luckily, New England has it all.

For families looking for a beach vacation, there are plenty of options to choose from. The coast of Maine is dotted with charming seaside towns, such as Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor, that offer beautiful beaches and plenty of family-friendly activities. Cape Cod in Massachusetts is another popular destination, known for its picturesque lighthouses and quaint villages.

If you're looking for a mountain retreat, Vermont and New Hampshire offer some of the best options in the region. The Green Mountains in Vermont are home to several ski resorts that offer year-round activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. In New Hampshire, the White Mountains offer stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and skiing.

For families interested in history and culture, there are plenty of options to explore in New England. Boston, the largest city in the region, is home to several historical sites, including the Freedom Trail and the USS Constitution Museum. In Rhode Island, the city of Newport is known for its historic mansions and beautiful coastal scenery.

Overall, New England offers a variety of locations that are perfect for family vacations. With its accessibility and diverse range of attractions, it's easy to see why this region is such a popular destination for families.