A Perfect New England Road Trip: 3 Weeks Exploring Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont
Introduction
New England is a charming region in the northeastern United States, known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, quaint small towns, and delicious seafood. This 3-week road trip itinerary will take you through the heart of New England, from the bustling streets of Boston to the serene landscapes of Vermont. Get ready to explore Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont as you embark on this unforgettable journey.
Week 1: Massachusetts and Maine — From Historic Boston to the Rugged Coastline
Day 1–2: Boston, MA
Start your adventure in Boston, the largest city in New England and a hub of American history. Spend the first two days exploring the city’s historic sites, such as the Freedom Trail and Quincy Market. Don’t forget to visit the Museum of Fine Arts or the New England Aquarium, and indulge in Italian cuisine in the North End.
Day 3: Salem, MA
A short drive from Boston, Salem is famous for its history of witch trials. Visit the Salem Witch Museum and House of the Seven Gables before spending the night in this intriguing town.
Day 4–5: Portland, ME
Next, head to the charming coastal city of Portland, Maine. Explore the Old Port district, known for its cobblestone streets and picturesque waterfront. Sample some of the best seafood in New England at one of the city’s numerous restaurants. On your second day, take a cruise around Casco Bay or visit the iconic Portland Head Light.
Day 6–7: Bar Harbor, ME and Acadia National Park
Drive to Bar Harbor, a quaint seaside town and gateway to Acadia National Park. Spend a day exploring the park’s stunning landscapes, which include granite peaks, rocky coastlines, and lush forests. After a day of hiking and sightseeing, return to Bar Harbor to rest and dine at a local eatery.
Week 2: New Hampshire — From the White Mountains to the Lakes Region
Day 8–10: White Mountains, NH
Enter New Hampshire and head to the majestic White Mountains. Check into a cozy lodge or inn and spend a few days exploring the region’s scenic drives and hiking trails. Highlights include Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge, and the Mount Washington Cog Railway or Auto Road.
Day 11–12: North Conway, NH
Drive to North Conway, a charming village in the heart of Mount Washington Valley. Shop at Settlers Green Outlet Village and explore nearby Echo Lake State Park. On your second day, take a scenic train ride through the valley and relax at Diana’s Baths.
Day 13–14: Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
Continue to Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake. Spend your days cruising the lake, visiting the charming towns of Meredith and Wolfeboro, or engaging in water sports.
Week 3: Vermont — From Scenic Quechee to the Lively City of Burlington
Day 15–16: Quechee, VT
Drive to the picturesque village of Quechee, Vermont. Start by exploring the Quechee Gorge, also known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.” Next, visit the Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop and indulge in a delicious meal at their on-site restaurant overlooking the river. On your second day, take a hot air balloon ride or explore nearby attractions, such as the Vermont Institute of Natural Science or the Sugarbush Farm.
Day 17–18: Montpelier, VT
Make your way to Montpelier, the charming capital of Vermont. Begin with a tour of the Vermont State House, followed by a stroll through the compact downtown area. Discover the city’s culinary scene, from farm-to-table dining to local breweries. On your second day, visit the nearby Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks to learn about Vermont’s maple syrup production and sample some sweet treats.
Day 19–20: Burlington, VT
Drive to Burlington, the largest city in Vermont, known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful waterfront. Spend your first day walking along the Church Street Marketplace and exploring the waterfront district, including the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. On your second day, rent a bike and ride the Island Line Trail, which takes you along the shores of Lake Champlain and across a causeway to the picturesque islands of South Hero and Grand Isle.
Day 21: Return to Boston, MA
Drive back to Boston (about 3.5 hours), making sure to leave enough time for any last-minute exploration or shopping. Depart from Boston Logan International Airport or extend your stay in the city.
