New England Family Vacation: Your Go-to Planning Resource based on the States

The extensive region of New England is a wonderful destination for families from all over the country to visit year-round. With its outstanding natural landscapes among the mountains and lakes, it's the perfect place for nature lovers, but it is also a historical spot to observe colonial architecture and a great spot for family-friendly activities with its multiple children’s museum, open-house factories, and artistic events. Have a look at all the top New England family vacation destinations this region has to offer!

What is the best time to visit New England?

The best time to visit New England is probably fall, given the variety of colors that trees display. Green, yellow, orange, and red cover the hills and contrast with the brightness of lakes and their reflections of the sky. The region’s weather invites tourists to visit right before winter when temperatures are still friendly enough for many entertaining activities, including festivals, amusement parks, outdoor walks, and historical visits.

Why Choose New England for Family Vacations?

Being a region that comprehends six different states, New England has many reasons to be a great vacation destination, but its main highlights include its rich historical cultural attractions, scenic and natural beauty, a myriad of family-friendly activities, local delicacies, and seasonal events.

Family Vacation Options in New England

Let’s see what are the main attractions in the different states in the region.

Connecticut

South of Massachusetts and West of Rhode Island, Connecticut is the perfect merge of coastal views, family fun, and historical sites. Whether you are looking for a day out at an amusement park, a coastal city experience, or a long walk through nature, Connecticut has it all!

Explore Lake Compounce and its family-friendly attractions

Lake Compounce is one of the most entertaining options on the list, with attractions to enjoy all year round. Can you believe it is the first amusement park in the United States? It has been open since 1846, and the most incredible fact is that many of its attractions date back to that era! A combination of historical rides from the Gold Rush days and modern waterslides and attractions. Here are some of the coolest ones on the map!

• Wildcat

Newly restored to offer a smooth ride, Wildcat is one of the oldest roller coasters in the park, and in the country! A classic wooden coaster with fast ups, downs, and turns.

• Boulder Dash

Another wooden roller coaster, but this time set among the trees. Imagine the view during the fall weather. Despite its antique looks, this ride was opened in 2000, quite new compared to Wildcat! Since then, it has been voted the Best Wooden Coaster in the world, five times!

• Storm Surge

One of the newest rides in the park, Storm Surge is a waterslide set up next to the lake, surrounding a huge lighthouse! Colorful lights blink at the rhythm of the music while you slide down this enclosed tube.

Discover charming coastal towns like Mystic and their kid-friendly activities.

Mystic, Connecticut, is a scenic coastal town that offers a blend of nautical history and family fun. The Mystic Aquarium is a must-visit, where children can get up close with marine life, including beluga whales and sea lions. The Mystic Seaport Museum is the Museum of America and the Sea and provides a glimpse into America's seafaring past, with historic ships and a recreated 19th-century village. Craftsmen show what life back then was like with live representations. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a slice of Mystic Pizza, made famous by the 1988 movie of the same name.

Enjoy outdoor adventures at Sleeping Giant State Park.

Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut, is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, offering over 30 miles of hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk to the stone observation tower at the mountain's peak for panoramic views of Long Island Sound and the surrounding countryside, covered in trees that change colors throughout the year. The park's name comes from the mountain's resemblance to a sleeping giant, providing a unique stage for a family picnic or a day of exploration.

Maine

At the very North of the US, Maine is a collection of different types of attractions for all the family. Hike along the Acadia National Park to enter the wilderness, visit the Children’s Museum to learn about the city’s origins and history, and visit a classic English town in Portland’s Old Port.

Visit Acadia National Park for hiking and wildlife experiences.

Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island, is a jewel of Maine, offering families breathtaking landscapes, from rocky shorelines to mountain peaks; a true clash of views. The park's carriage roads are perfect for biking, and the easy hike up Cadillac Mountain offers stunning sunrise views. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to see moose, deer, and various bird species. The Junior Ranger program is a great way for kids to learn about the park's natural environment.

Explore the Maine Children's Museum for interactive learning.

The Maine Children's Museum, located in Portland, is a haven for curious minds, with exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and imaginative play. From science and engineering to art and culture, the museum offers a range of activities that cater to children of all ages. Kids can learn about the notable people that make Maine famous, the state’s typical industries and also its wildlife. The outdoor Discovery Garden is a highlight, allowing kids to explore nature and engage in creative play, even including touch tanks with native sea creatures.

Experience the picturesque Old Port in Portland for family-friendly dining and shopping.

Portland's Old Port is a charming district with cobblestone streets, classic English architecture, waterfront views, and an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Families can enjoy fresh, local seafood, explore unique boutiques, and take a scenic ferry ride to nearby islands. The area is also known for its lively events and festivals, making it a vibrant place to explore year-round.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts’s historical background makes it a great destination for History aficionados, but also for beach lovers and entire families. Visit Freedom Trail in Boston to see 16 different historical sites, take a look at Salem and its Witch museum, or dip in the sea at Cape Cod, if it’s not too cold!

Explore the historic sites of Boston, including the Freedom Trail and the Boston Children's Museum

Boston is rich in history and culture, offering families a unique educational experience. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking path that passes by 16 historical sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. The Boston Children's Museum is another must-visit, with interactive exhibits that promote learning through play, catering to children's natural curiosity and creativity. It offers different activities for kids of all ages, with special seasonal events available along the year.

Visit Cape Cod for beautiful beaches and family-oriented resorts.

Cape Cod is a premier vacation destination, known for its stunning beaches, quaint villages, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're looking to build sandcastles at Nauset Beach, explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, or enjoy a whale-watching cruise, Cape Cod offers endless opportunities for family fun. The area's resorts and vacation rentals cater to families, providing the perfect base for a memorable New England vacation.

Discover the magic of Salem and its interactive museums.

Salem, renowned for its 1692 witch trials, offers a mix of history, mystery, and fun for families. The Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum provide interactive exhibits that bring the town's rich history to life. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic waterfront, enjoy a trolley tour, or take part in the seasonal festivals that celebrate Salem's unique heritage. Its colonial architecture seems like an open portal into the past. 

Vermont

Vermont is a wonderful place to visit during the fall and winter seasons, thanks to its scenery and open landscapes. Hiking and skiing are a must in this area, but families can also visit some of the food production sites, like Ben & Jerry’s factory, or make their own plushies at the Teddy Bear factory.

Enjoy Vermont’s winter wonderland

Vermont transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering a magical backdrop for a family vacation filled with snow-covered landscapes and frosty adventures. The state is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, with family-friendly resorts with slopes and lessons for all skill levels. Families can also enjoy snowshoeing through serene forests, ice skating on frozen ponds and exhilarating sled rides. Vermont offers the perfect accommodation after a day of winter fun, where families can gather by the fireplace, sip hot cocoa, and share stories of their snowy adventures

Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory for a fun, educational tour

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Shelburne offers a behind-the-scenes look at how teddy bears are made, from cutting and sewing to stuffing and stitching. The tour is both educational and entertaining, making it a hit with children and adults alike. Visitors can even create their own custom teddy bear to take home as a souvenir.

Explore Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory for tasty treats and interactive exhibits

A visit to Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury is a must for families. The tour offers a glimpse into the ice cream-making process, complete with a tasting room where you can sample some of your favorite flavors. The on-site playground and flavor graveyard, where the factory commemorates discontinued flavors, add to the fun.

Rhode Island

Despite being the smallest state in the US, Rhode Island is packed with outstanding activities to enjoy year-round. For nature-related activities, families can enjoy a day at the beach on Newport or Narragansett, two coastline sites with different looks and activities to do. You can also visit Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the first zoos in America, or you can pick a more cultural alternative, by attending WaterFire, an artistic event with bonfires, street performers and music.

Relax on the family-friendly beaches of Newport and Narragansett

Rhode Island's coastline offers some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in New England. Newport's Easton's Beach features a vintage carousel, while Narragansett Town Beach is known for its gentle waves and sandy shores. Both beaches provide the perfect setting for a day of sun, surf, and sandcastle building. If you’re interested, you can stay at some of the resorts set on the coastline, which offer a full experience with huge swimming pools next to the beach.

Explore the Roger Williams Park Zoo for a day of animal encounters

Located in Providence, the Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country, offering families the chance to see animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, and red pandas. The zoo's interactive exhibits and conservation programs educate visitors about wildlife and the importance of protecting natural habitats. Guests can take part in habitat enrichment by choosing exactly what they want to purchase for every animal enclosure, contributing to their well-being while at the zoo.

Visit WaterFire Providence, an enchanting arts and culture event

WaterFire Providence is a unique event that combines over eighty bonfires on the rivers of downtown Providence with music, street performances, and art installations. This magical evening event creates a captivating atmosphere that's perfect for families looking to experience the city's vibrant arts scene with local artists and their creations.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a crown jewel for nature lovers, with its scenic views throughout the White Mountains. Hiking and aquatic activities are a must during summer when its lakes are just the right temperature for a quick dip. For a photographic tour, hop onto the Conway Scenic train, which will take you on a tour along the snowy mountains, or visit Story Land, an amusement park filled with magic from your favorite all-time fairy tales, and Water Country, home to dozens of water attractions for a full day of fun .

Explore the White Mountains for hiking and outdoor adventures

The White Mountains of New Hampshire offer stunning natural scenery and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Families can enjoy hiking, zip-lining, and exploring natural attractions like the Flume Gorge. Being the birthplace of American modern tourism, the region's family-friendly resorts offer a range of activities, from swimming pools and mini-golf to evening campfires and storytelling. Visit Omni Mount Washington Resort and The Mountain View Grand Resort to stay the night in a piece of living history.

Visit Story Land, a family amusement park in the heart of the mountains

Story Land, located in Glen, is a fairy-tale-themed amusement park that brings children's stories to life. With rides, shows, and play areas designed for young children and their families, Story Land provides a magical and memorable experience set against the backdrop of New Hampshire's natural beauty. Kids can spend the day in magic castles and enchanted forests with their favorite characters from fairy tales and movie princesses.

Enjoy a scenic ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad

The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the White Mountains. Families can choose from a variety of train rides, including the Valley Train to Conway, the Sawyer River excursion, and the Mountaineer tour, which stood out for being “supremely scenic” as their site says. Seasonal tours are available throughout the year for special Christmas and Easter trails. The vintage train cars and scenic views make for an unforgettable journey through New Hampshire's landscapes.

Splash at Water Country Waterpark

Set in Portsmouth, Water Country offers a collection of water slides, pools, lazy rivers, and many other aquatic attractions for all the family. Feel the thrill by sliding down intense attractions like the Patriot or the Plunge, or let yourself go with the flow in the Whirlpool to enjoy an afternoon of relaxation. 

Planning Your New England Family Vacation

Best times to visit based on weather and activities

The best time to visit New England depends on your family's interests. Fall offers stunning foliage and comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and scenic drives. In particular, Connecticut offers Phantom Fall Fest, held at Lake Compounce for a spooky but fun Halloween celebration. Summer is perfect for beach vacations, amusement parks, and exploring coastal towns. Winter provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, while spring brings mild weather and blooming landscapes. 

Accommodation options: family resorts, vacation rentals, and hotels

New England offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every family's needs and budget. Family resorts often include amenities like pools, game rooms, and activities for children. Vacation rentals offer the comfort and convenience of a home away from home, while hotels in city centers provide easy access to attractions and dining.

Packing tips for families with children

When packing for a New England family vacation, consider the season and activities you've planned. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don't forget to pack snacks, water bottles, and entertainment for the kids during travel times!

Conclusion

As you can see, the New England region includes dozens of different activities to do during all seasons, for all members of the family to enjoy. From amusement parks to beaches, festivals, historical sites, and even magical spots! Visit the area in the fall to witness the withering leaves turn different colors all over the place and enjoy the last days of comforting nice weather.