With endearing coastal towns, well-preserved heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes, New England is a place like no other. There’s so much to see, and you could easily enjoy getting lost in the charming nooks of New England for several weeks.
But what if you have just 10 days to explore the region? We’ve got you covered with an ideal itinerary that hits the highlights and offers helpful insights on navigating New England, from weather preparation to toll road tips. If you’re searching for a road trip with something for adventure seekers, culture connoisseurs and history buffs alike, our New England road trip itinerary will help you fall in love with this corner of the country.
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How Many Days Should You Plan for a New England Trip on the Road?
New England contains six states, and you could easily spend several weeks exploring them all. However, if you’re facing time constraints (like summer vacation or winter break), our suggested itinerary covers the most iconic destinations in 10 days. We’ve intentionally designed this guide to be flexible, so feel free to spend more time in some spots and remove others from the route to adapt to your group’s interests. Whether you’re looking for seaside resorts or a colorful New England fall foliage itinerary, we’ve got you covered.
When is the Best Time for a New England Drive?
New England takes on a different identity each season. Summers offer classic beach vacations in quaint coastal villages. Fall presents some of the most vibrant foliage in the country. It would be hard to name a “winner” when it comes to New England seasons, but here are some aspects to consider when booking your travel.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the ideal time to visit if you want to swim in the ocean and dig your toes into the sand. The longer daylight hours facilitate plenty of outdoor fun, and you can count on restaurants and bars to be open for this busy season. That being said, you can also count on bigger crowds and higher prices, so book accommodations and rental cars early.
- Fall (September to November): Want to see New England in the fall? A road trip is a smart way to see the leaves changing colors across all 6 states. Come autumn, summer temperatures have cooled down, too, making rigorous activities like hiking and kayaking more comfortable. Plus, the crowds tend to thin out this time of year.
- Spring (April to May): Many travelers say spring is the best time to visit New England if you’re hoping to catch the blooming flowers. The moderate temperature allows for a range of activities, from outdoor excursions to wine tasting and museum hopping. You can typically find good deals during spring, too, as it’s just before the summer rush.
- Winter (December to February): The coastal towns mostly shut down for winter. However, some places, like Burlington, VT, and Lincoln, NH, come to life when the snow falls. If you’re looking for world-class ski destinations, cozy winter cabins and a quiet getaway, visit New England in the winter. Just make sure to pack for cold weather.
Luckily, New England has something for everyone — it’s all about timing your trip around the activities and attractions that call your name.
10-Day New England Travel Itinerary
We’ve curated a list of the top sights across six diverse and breathtaking states. Whether you’re taking a New England road trip with kids or friends, or perhaps going solo, we think you’ll find that our suggested stops are accessible and enjoyable for all age groups. Foodies, thrill seekers, nature enthusiasts and history lovers will find something inspiring in this travel itinerary. New England states will steal your heart as you experience the culture and sample the sights, flavors and energy of this vibrant corner of the country. So, with your road map in hand, let’s get started.
Day 1-2: Boston, Massachusetts
Boston combines electric city energy with rich history. This is a place you could easily fill an entire week. So we’re dedicating a couple of days to it on our itinerary.
Honor the past with a stroll on the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking path that weaves between 16 historic sites. On it, you’ll find the Old State House, the oldest surviving public building in Boston, and the site where the Declaration of Independence was read for the very first time. Paul Revere’s Home is another popular stop on the Freedom Trail. Take a tour and glimpse what life was like in 18th-century New England.
Enjoy an immersive American Revolution experience at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Here, you can witness actors reenact the venue’s famous namesake event and tour full-scale replicas of 18th-century ships. Go from American history to international culture at the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest art museums in the world. Here you can view paintings by Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Monet, mummies from ancient Greece and sculptures from the Roman Empire.
Traveling with young explorers? Head to the Boston Children’s Museum for interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, art and math. Travel under the sea in the heart of Boston at the New England Aquarium, where visitors will delight in the replica of the Amazon rainforest, and the Giant Ocean Tank containing more than 1,000 animals living in the 200,000-gallon Caribbean reef exhibit.
Once you’ve had your fill of knowledge, it’s time to fill your stomachs. Boston’s eclectic culinary scene has something for everyone. However, if you’re craving classic New England bites, head to the Boston Sail House for a comforting bowl of clam chowder with views of the harbor, or James Hook & Co for one of the best lobster rolls in Beantown. Traveling with a group of many tastes? Stop by Quincy Market inside of Faneuil Hall, the site of the famous 1764 Sugar Act and 1765 Stamp Act protests. In its historic halls, you’ll find vendors offering everything from gourmet hot dogs to vegan ice cream and fresh oysters. To satisfy your appetite even more, check out our road atlases featuring 11 culinary road trips, including routes through Boston and Vermont/New Hampshire, that will come in handy during your New England excursion.
When you’re ready to turn in, book a room at the Dagny, an art deco hotel in the heart of downtown that offers bike rentals and suites that sleep up to six guests. For a historic experience, stay at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza. Known as “America’s first Grand Hotel,” the property originally opened in 1927 as “The Statler Hotel” and has hosted nearly every American president. Alternatively, you can live like the locals and book an Airbnb in Back Bay, an affluent neighborhood known for its art galleries, patio cafes and charming brick townhouses.
Next, you’ll witness nature’s artistry in Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Estimated drive time: 5 hours.
Day 3-4: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, Maine
Ready for awe-inspiring coastal scenery and a charming seaside town? You’re off to Acadia National Park, and its gateway town, Bar Harbor. For unparalleled views, scale Cadillac Mountain (accessible by car), the highest point on the U.S. eastern seaboard. Enjoy a peaceful picnic around a pristine body of water at Jordan Pond, a glacier-carved lake with incredibly clear waters. You can also have afternoon tea on the lawn at Jordan Pond House, a restaurant that has served visitors to the area since the 1890s. Traveling with little ones who can’t hike far yet? See several major landmarks without getting out of your car by driving Park Loop Road, a 27-mile paved road that passes some of the most popular sights in the park.
Ready to head into town? Bar Harbor awaits you with classic New England coastal charm. Explore local shops and galleries on the quaint Main Street in downtown. Sit and people-watch in one of the many well-maintained parks. Take a classic ghost tour to hear about the spooky side of New England maritime history.
Once you’re hungry, don’t miss the Chart Room, a local favorite for over 30 years, serving fresh seafood with ocean views. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream, where everything is handmade using local ingredients. Kids and adults will love the creative flavors here.
For an overnight stay full of character, head to Acadia Village Resort, where you can choose between villas, townhouses and manor homes. Or, treat yourself to a room at the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, a replica of Rodick House, one of the most iconic late-19th-century hotels in the area. It’s a 5-minute drive from Acadia National Park, and park passes can be purchased at the front desk. Want to stay in the park? Acadia has several campgrounds to choose from. Spots fill up quickly, so reserve your campsite early.
Next, enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure in Lincoln, New Hampshire. Estimated drive time: 2.5 hours.
Day 5: Lincoln, New Hampshire
Nestled in the mesmerizing White Mountains, Lincoln offers immersive nature experiences that can be as active or as relaxing as you choose, making it an ideal destination for families with younger and older kids.
Get your camera ready for a visit to Flume Gorge, a natural gorge at the base of Mount Liberty that juts out 800 feet. With covered bridges, a natural pool and cascading waterfalls, it’s a fairytale come to life. Children will love crawling through the “Wolf’s Den,” a narrow, boulder-lined path visitors must get on hands and knees to traverse.
Witness mountainous magic on Kancamagus Highway, a scenic 34.5-mile road that connects Conway and Lincoln in the White Mountain National Forest. It’s one of the best places to take in New England's fall foliage. Along the way, you’ll encounter Albany Covered Bridge, a historic bridge built in 1858, and Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, a lovely place to picnic near a waterfall.
If all of that car time has kiddos itching for some thrills, head to Whale’s Tale Waterpark. Between the surf simulator, wave pool, lazy river and water slides, kids will find plenty of ways to burn off some energy and cool down.
Hungry from all of that hiking and swimming? Enjoy a hearty meal at The Common Man, known for classic American fare like meatloaf and pot pies. Or indulge in a delicious burger from Black Mountain Burger Co, serving up patties made from 100% Angus beef, as well as turkey, bison and veggie options. Wash it down with one of the venue’s diverse craft beers or cider.
Ready for some shuteye? Book a room at the quiet and welcoming Woodwards White Mountain Resort, conveniently located five minutes from downtown Lincoln. Complete with on-site BBQs, a fish pond and fire pits, it exudes rustic luxury.
It’s time to explore the northern Appalachians in the White Mountains. Estimated drive time: 1 hour.
Day 6: White Mountains, New Hampshire
Nature enthusiasts will find adventure in an untamed landscape in the White Mountains, a subrange of the northern Appalachian Mountains. The region offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and water sports in the summer. It’s also another top destination for witnessing the leaves change colors in the fall.
Kick things off on Mount Washington Auto Road, a 7.6-mile road that leads to the summit of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the region. This private toll road is the oldest man-made attraction in the country. After completing the roughly 30-minute climb to an elevation of 4,000 feet, you’ll earn your “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington” bumper sticker.
You can also experience the White Mountain National Forest on foot, thanks to its more than 1,200 miles of hiking trails. Throughout the forest, you’ll encounter remnants of old settlements, including farmsteads and logging camps. You also might spot white tailed deer, moose or bears (instruct kids to stay on the paved trails for safety and never approach wildlife).
Want a bird’s eye view of it all? Take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. This exhilarating cable car ride carries you to the 4,080-foot summit of its namesake mountain. Some say that when the weather is nice, you can see mountains across four states and even Canada from the summit. There’s a fun cafe with beer on tap up there, too.
Once you return closer to sea level, grab a bite and a pint at the White Mountain Cider Company. It has a formal restaurant, a bar and a market where you can grab items like sandwiches and cider from the on-site mill to go. Craving baked goods? Grab fresh-from-the-oven loaves, pastries and croissants from the Vintage Baking Company.
With a stomach full of treats and a head full of memories, it’s time to get some sleep, and Eagle Mountain House & Golf Club is just the place. Boasting uninterrupted mountain views, a 9-hole golf course and historic rooms, it’s the ideal location to unwind after your day of adventure.
Ready for chic shopping and dining next to a glistening lake? Head to Burlington, Vermont. Estimated drive time: 3 hours.
Day 7: Burlington, Vermont
With a mixture of local shops, farm-to-table restaurants and world-class hiking, Burlington is the perfect blend of trendy and timeless. Whether you’re looking for a cozy New England cafe or an invigorating day in nature, Burlington has both. Plus, many say that Vermont is the prettiest New England state, so photographers in particular might love this destination.
Learn a bit about history amidst natural beauty at Lake Champlain. It’s home to one of the oldest known fossil reefs and was the sight of important battles during the American Revolutionary War. Plus, children will delight in the legend of Champ, the lake monster that allegedly resides within the waters. There’s even a permanent exhibit dedicated to the creature at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
Stroll the lively pedestrian walkway at Church Street Marketplace next. You’ll see street performers and street art in front of more than 30 local retailers. You might even catch one of the frequent parades that take place here.
When you’re ready to dine, Hen of the Wood offers a delicious farm-to-table menu, built around local, seasonal ingredients. Looking for the perfect breakfast spot before hitting the road in the morning? Head over to The Skinny Pancake for sweet or savory crepes, right on the Lake Champlain waterfront.
As for accommodations, Hotel Vermont provides a comfortable and rustic atmosphere. Little ones will love the bedtime menu, complete with milk and cookies, a Vermont teddy bear and bedtime stories from the in-room library. Meanwhile, adults will luxuriate in eco-friendly bath products.
Mix things up next in the Berkshires. Estimated drive time: 2 hours.
Day 8: The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Known for its picturesque rolling hills and lively arts culture, the Berkshires combine man-made and nature-made gems for a unique destination.
For hiking trails of varying levels of difficulty, head to Mount Greylock Trails. As the highest point in the state, the Mount Greylock region provides 360-degree views of the Berkshires. For an easy and educational hike, take the Bradley Farm Interpretive Trail. This 1.5-mile, kid-friendly stroll includes exhibits that teach visitors about the local history and nature.
Art lovers will want to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum, which contains nearly 1,000 original paintings and drawings from the famous artist. Plus, there’s an authentic reproduction of Rockwell’s working studio. Kids get in for free, and there are regular docent-led tours and hands-on activities.
For a curated wilderness experience, head to the Berkshire Botanical Garden. This 15-acre property showcases a variety of local flora and fauna. It’s organized into creative spaces, like the Children’s Discovery Garden, complete with a chicken coop and purple playhouse and the Edible Garden, which has over two dozen vegetables — feel free to snack on them.
Ready for some grub? Head to the Starving Artist Cafe & Creperie, where you can order from a menu featuring organic, vegetarian and vegan options in a cozy atmosphere. You can also dine at one of the four restaurants at the Red Lion Inn, our hotel recommendation for the area. Operating since 1773, the property features a main inn and guest houses, as well as a spa and a speakeasy bar with live music.
Next up is Litchfield Hills, a mecca for wildlife and wineries. Estimated drive time: 2.5 hours.
Day 9: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut
Enjoy a relaxed pace of life and natural beauty in Litchfield Hills. Home to several quaint towns and wilderness wonders, this region of Connecticut is the perfect place to slow down and reflect on your travels.
Parts of the Housatonic River flow through Litchfield Hills, so you’ll want to hike or picnic by its shores. A part of the body of water received the “Wild and Scenic” designation, thanks to its luscious landscapes. You may even spot black bears, moose and deer refreshing themselves at the water’s edge.
Want to chase some waterfalls? Head to Kent Falls State Park, home to a series of falls that are a tributary of the Housatonic River. For an easy hike, take the Red and Yellow Loop Trail. It’s a kid-friendly 0.8-mile loop that offers excellent views of the falls.
Eager for some adult activities? Litchfield is one of Connecticut’s most beloved wine regions. There is no shortage of wineries where you can enjoy a tasting. We recommend Sunset Meadow Vineyards for sustainably sourced vintages and delicious wine pairings.
When it’s time to feast, head to the restaurant inside the White Hart Inn. You’ll enjoy elevated, hearty dishes in a chic but cozy setting. Looking for modern comfort food? Grab a seat at Sage and Salt and enjoy a large menu of pastas, burgers, salads and grain bowls.
Feeling sleepy? Lay your head down at the Litchfield Inn, a colonial boutique hotel nestled on 10 acres of the Berkshires’ foothills. Stay in one of the uniquely themed rooms and enjoy the gardens and fire pits.
Get ready for a classic East Coast beach stay. You’re off to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. Estimated drive time: 2 hours.
Day 10: Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
As gems of the East Coast, Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard offer the picture-perfect finale to your trip.
Explore the famous lighthouses of Cape Cod and imagine what it was like for 1800s sailors to find their way to this rugged coastline. There are several iconic lighthouses that attract photographers and history lovers alike here, from the red and white striped Nauset Lighthouse in Eastham to the bluffside Chatham Lighthouse.
Want to whale watch? Cape Cod’s shores are a well-known playground for these majestic marine mammals. Hop on a bike and cruise the Rail Trail, a 22-mile path that takes you through town and the woodlands. If you have time, take the ferry to Nantucket, where you can see more lighthouses and walk cobblestone streets past historic buildings.
Ready for a little seaside luxury? Make your way to Martha’s Vineyard. With majestic beachfront resorts, dotted with Adirondacks just begging you to kick back, Martha’s Vineyard offers irresistible summer vacation nostalgia. Learn about whaling history at the Old Whaling Church. Admire the island’s genuine Greek Revival and New England architecture. Stroll the streets of Wesleyan Grove, a historic district known for colorful gingerbread cottages.
As for chowing down, there are mouthwatering options across the mainland and the islands. In Provincetown, there’s the Lobster Pot, known for its clam chowder and lobster rolls. The Port Hunter in Edgartown has a scrumptious oyster bar and fresh seafood. Want sandwiches that will satisfy a group? Mo’s Lunch in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard makes huge sandwiches and tasty snack plates, perfect for a picnic lunch.
After a long road trip, you’ve earned yourself a retreat at the Harbor View Hotel. This luxury seaside resort on Martha’s Vineyard boasts a star-studded guest book, attracting A-list celebrities and world leaders over the years. With its masterfully decorated multi-bedroom suites and cottages, complimentary bikes and yoga, and walkability to art galleries and boutiques, it’s no wonder the elite flock to this property. Kids can enjoy lawn games while parents take in a sunset cruise.
Essential Items to Bring for Your Northeast US Road Trip
Your packing list will vary depending on the time of year you visit New England. So, narrow down the season you’ll be traveling before you fill up your suitcase. Whenever you go, these are some items you’ll be glad to have.
- Money and Park Entrance Fees: Some parks only accept credit cards, while others take cash, so be sure to bring several payment options.
- Layered Clothing: New England weather is unpredictable, so pack layers. Make sure to bring a windbreaker, warm sweater and rain gear. Even summer nights on the coast can get chilly. Bring sandals for the beach, good walking shoes for the cobblestone streets, and hiking boots for the parks.
- Snacks and Water: While there will be places to buy food and water along the way, many roadside shops are famously pricey in New England. Plus, you might encounter long stretches of road without any provisions.
- Insect Repellent. This is especially important if you’re going in the summer, when bug bites can put a damper on the fun.
- Tick Remover. There is a strong presence of ticks in New England, so be prepared with the right tools should you find one of these nasty creatures on you or your kid.
- First-Aid Kit: If you plan on hiking the many trails on our itinerary, be sure to pack a first aid kit. You’ll want to patch up small scrapes and cuts right away.
- New England Regional Map: You might lose cell service in some parts of the drive. Our foldable New England map shows county boundaries, points of interest, highways and other important details to keep you on your route.
With the right gear, you can truly soak in all New England has to offer, without unexpected bumps in the road slowing you down.
Tips for a Road Trip Through New England
Every region of the country has its own local quirks and challenges. If you want to visit New England like a pro, keep these tips in mind:
Take Picturesque Drives
Your navigation app will send you on the most efficient route. But road trips are about the journey, so we recommend packing a road atlas for a big-picture look at where you’re headed. Doing so will give you the opportunity to spot scenic highways en route to your destination — and New England has plenty, like the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, Route 169 in Connecticut, and the Molly Stark Byway in Vermont.
Be Prepared for Tolls
You’ll encounter toll roads on your trip, so be prepared by either downloading the correct app to pay remotely or carrying cash to pay on-site. (By the way, Connecticut has the most toll roads in New England, so definitely pack your Connecticut atlas as it indicates where the toll roads are.)
Find Parking at Popular Stops
Finding a place for your vehicle inside national parks can be tricky and costly. Try parking in the gateway communities and finding a shuttle into the park. As for the city, park your car at your hotel and leave it. You’re best off walking or taking public transit in the cities.
Following these tips can help you avoid common pitfalls for a smooth and enjoyable New England road trip.
Plan Your Northeast Road Trip Itinerary with Rand McNally Maps
Ready to experience the best road trip New England states have to offer? Let Rand McNally maps lead the way! We have detailed and comprehensive atlases covering Maine, New Hampshire/Vermont, Connecticut and Massachusetts, each of which contains useful insights for a fulfilling road trip. With information like historic sites, scenic views and trailheads, our maps make it easy to get a big picture look at where you’re headed, and pick out the places you don’t want to miss.
New England is the land of hidden gems not often found on navigation apps, but they’re listed in our Northeastern paper maps. If you’ve been searching for a road trip that will scratch your itch for adventure, history lessons, coastal charm and cultural enrichment, it’s time to visit New England.
Want to explore more when you’re done? Continue on with our East Coast road trip itinerary. After all, your bags are already packed.