5 Scenic Road Trip Destinations in New England

There’s just something special about getting in the car and exploring a new place. Road trips are a great way to get to know an area with the perfect blend of adventure and discovery. New England has so many beautiful destinations and with every state being close together it makes for an epic region to go on a road trip. With everything to offer from fresh seafood to hiking, shopping, farm-to-table dining, outdoor markets and more, you can’t go wrong with a scenic road trip in New England. We are sharing five scenic road trip destinations in New England with a little bit of something for everyone.

5 Scenic Road Trip Destinations

Hiking and Camping in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful parks on the east coast. The vast contrast between woodlands, rocky beaches and granite peaks makes it both stunning and diverse. This 47,000 acre National Park is located on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s coast and is home to New England’s highest peak, Cadillac Mountain. You can expect to come across a range of wildlife including moose, bear, whale and seabirds. For those looking to shop and dine, Bar Harbor Maine is a beautiful bayside town next to the park with plenty of tours and access points to the park.

Where to Stay

For those looking for the charm of camping but the luxury of a hotel stay, look no further than, Under Canvas. Glamping is the best way to enjoy the natural beauty of the National Park without feeling under resourced. Enjoy onsite dining with delicious locally sourced cuisine, endless activities including complimentary morning yoga, s’mores, and stunning Maine coast views.

What to Do

There’s no shortage of things to do in Acadia National Park. Cadillac Mountain is the number one destination for many traveling to Acadia, as it is the highest peak on the east coast. It’s also the best place to be for sunrise and sunset. Set out on the trail for an epic way to start or end your day. If you are looking for other hiking trails in the area there are many to choose from including coastal to lake and forested hikes. Take a bike ride along the 45 miles of carriage trails weaving through the mountains of Acadia. Enjoy the beautiful lakes, ponds and ocean of Acadia via boat. Head to Echo Lake for a beautiful family friendly beach, accessible hiking trails, fresh water swimming and more!

Where to Eat

The only place to eat within Acadia National Park is Jordan Pond House, which is open seasonally for lunch, tea and dinner. Bar Harbor and surrounding towns have an excellent selection of places to eat including: The Travelin Lobster for the best lobster rolls, The Burning Tree for true farm-to-table dining and Havana for American fine dining with a Latin flair.

A Coastal Scenic Road Trip in Newport, RI

If we’re playing favorites, Newport, Rhode Island is one of our favorite scenic road trip destinations. For those looking to enjoy ocean views, historic mansions, fresh seafood, scenic walks and drives, Newport is your spot. Set on Aquidneck Island, Newport’s yacht-filled harbor is a site to behold. Explore Gilded Age mansions and walk cobblestone streets for excellent shopping and dining options. You can’t go wrong with a getaway in Newport, RI.

Where to Stay

For a truly iconic stay in Newport, head to the Castle Hill Inn. This sophisticated, luxurious yet laid-back stay honors Newport’s rich history, while providing the luxuries of fine dining and top-notch accommodations. Choose between cottage rooms and beach house rooms just steps from a private beach. The perfect stay to make you feel pampered and relaxed along the coast.

If you’re looking to be closer to downtown, check out the Vanderbilt Auberge, a historic mansion updated for modern living including amenities like a pool and rooftop dining. It’s also pet friendly.

What to Do

Take an scenic drive along Newport’s Ocean Drive, with 10 miles of meandering coastline that passes through the Newport Mansions, Hammersmith Farm (the childhood home of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy), Brenton Point State Park, Fort Adams State Park and Gooseberry Beach. The Newport Cliff Walk is a fantastic way to see Newport’s stunning coastline and the gorgeous views from the Newport Mansions along Bellevue Avenue. Be sure to join a tour of the Newport Mansions to explore the rich history of the gilded era. Newport Harbor is filled with gorgeous yachts and sailboats. Walk along the harbor and enjoy the views or join a sunset sail to experience Newport from Narragansett Bay.

Where to Eat

For a casual waterfront breakfast or lunch head to Belle’s Cafe. You can’t beat dinner at The Clarke Cooke House with excellent cocktails, people watching and fresh seafood. For yummy margaritas and Mexican fare, try Perro Salado and for seafood and waterfront views try The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar.

Historic Charm and Rolling Hills in Woodstock, VT

Woodstock is a quintessential small town in Vermont with historic covered bridges, country stores, farm-to-table dining, excellent hiking and luxurious stays.

Where to Stay

The Woodstock Inn and Resort (get 10% off your stay with this link) is a favorite stay for many because of the amenities and convenient location. Located in the center of the village, the Woodstock Inn makes a great place to base your stay. Walk into town for shopping, dining and easy access to hiking trails. Take advantage of the amenities including the Spa, Athletic Club, Nordic Center, Country Club and ski mountain.

If you’re looking for a rental property, this luxury home has it’s own swimming pond, situated on 25 acres and still very close to town. Or for riverfront access right in town, this rental is steps from the river, and within walking distance of town for easy access to restaurants, shopping, and more.

What to Do

Take a quintessential picture under the Middle Covered Bridge across the street from the Village Green. Venture to Billings Farm to pet the cows, meander through the gardens and explore the old farmhouse and museum. Bring along or rent a mountain bike while you’re in town and take advantage of the diverse network of mountain bike trails in and around Woodstock. Explore the shops in town and don’t miss Farmhouse Pottery. Grab local farm fresh goodies and sandwiches at The Woodstock Farmers Market. If you are visiting during sugaring season, (February-April) be sure to stop into a Sugarhouse and get yourself some freshly made maple syrup! Here’s some ideas for what to do with kids in Woodstock.

There are also tons of scenic road trip destinations within Vermont. Foliage season is one of the best times to take a drive through some of Vermont’s iconic towns and country roads.

Where to Eat

For breakfast head to Mon Vert Cafe for coffee, pastries, pancakes, eggs and more. Sandwiches from the Village Butcher are a delicious option to enjoy at their outdoor tables or a picnic by the river. Sip on cocktails before dinner at the village cocktail bar, Au Comptoir and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table dinner at Sante or The Prince and the Pauper.

Walkable Seaside Exploring in Portsmouth, NH

The New Hampshire seacoast is a beautiful place to visit with shopping, entertainment, dining and waterfront exploring. See some of our top recommendations here.

Where to Stay

The Hotel Portsmouth is a great centrally located hotel for your Portsmouth adventure. This boutique hotel has spacious and comfortable lounging areas and amenities. Included with your stay is a delicious small plates breakfast.

What to Do

Enjoy the New Hampshire seacoast with beautiful walks along the Portsmouth Harbor, shop and dine in the heart of downtown at Market Square. Take a step back in time with over 350 years worth of historic sites and houses at the Strawberry Banke Museum— an entire neighborhood of history. Nearby, Prescott Park is a beautiful waterfront location with stunning gardens and fountains.

If you’re looking to to hit the beach, head south to nearby Rye, NH for Wallis Sands State Beach. Another great option is slightly north in Kittery, Fort Foster, a vast state park with rocky and sandy beaches, playground, and lots of open green space for picnics.

Where to Eat

You can’t miss Elephantine Bakery for breakfast and lunch with the most delicious coffee, pastries and offerings. Enjoy yummy lobster rolls, oysters and more fresh seafood at Row 34. If you’re craving smoothies or looking to grab lunch for the beach, check out The Green Room.

Foodie Lovers Paradise in Portland, Maine

For those that love seafood and the entire foodie experience, Portland, Maine is your food lovers paradise. Get the best Maine lobster rolls, enjoy a bike ride along the coast and explore Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park.

Where to Stay

Portland Harbor Hotel is a coastal-themed hotel, that is both sleek and cozy, located in downtown Old Port Portland. Not to mention, the excellent in-house restaurant, Harbor Bistro and Terrace.

What to Do

Explore Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park for stunning coastline views from Portland Head Lighthouse. Learn historical information within the museum and take tours, hike or picnic! Bike along the Cape Elizabeth Loop from Portland Head Light. Head into downtown Portland for excellent shopping and dining options. Explore Portland’s rich selection of museums and historical landmarks including: Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine and Moss Galleries.

Where to Eat

Known for it’s duck-fat Belgian fries and milkshakes, you can’t come to Portland without a stop at Duck Fat. For one of the best lobster rolls in Maine, head to Eventide. Portland is also known for it’s amazing food truck fare.

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Whether you’re looking to escape to the mountains, the ocean or the countryside, there are plenty of incredible scenic road trip destinations in New England.