Across New England, you will find both similarities and striking differences. Covered bridges and charming town centers are common. Quirky antique stores abound, often not far from shops selling homemade ice cream. With miles and miles of coastline, one is never far from an ocean beach. But New England also has a lively lake culture and beloved swimming holes. When it comes to arts, culture and food, you’ll find hidden gems across the region. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll discover some of our intriguing distinctions as well. For example, do you know how you like your lobster roll or what exactly makes a New England hot dog?
This summer, journalists at the stations of the New England News Collaborative have been on the road, exploring these and other questions, as they put together guides for regional day trips. Whether you’re looking for more to do locally, or want to plan a short trip to a nearby state, they’re full of good ideas.
Day Trips in New Hampshire
Sure, outsiders might think of New Hampshire as the backdrop for countless presidential campaign stops every four years. But there’s a lot more to the Granite State than the diners and town halls you see on television. Small but mighty, the state offers a surprisingly varied mix of landscapes: rolling hills, rugged mountains, scenic lakes and more. Best of all, it doesn’t take long to get from one of those places to another.
- Learn more about day trips in New Hampshire from NHPR.
Day Trips in Massachusetts
Home to Boston, the largest city in New England, Massachusetts is jam-packed with vibrant historical sites, lively city adventures, beautiful hiking, delicious food, academia galore and a healthy dose of idyllic rural charm.
- Find out more about favorite spots in western Massachusetts from NEPM.
- Learn more about day trips in Cape Cod, central Massachusetts and eastern Massachusetts from WBUR.
- Go deeper with WBUR’s Field Guide to Boston
Day Trips in Vermont
On a Vermont day trip, you might stumble upon a well-stocked farm stand that runs on the honor system, or you could encounter a rare bird, an ancient fossil or a museum exhibit about dust. From the populated areas around Burlington, to the rural splendor of the state’s Northeast Kingdom, off-the-beaten path gems abound.
- Learn more about day trips in Vermont from Vermont Public.
Day Trips in Connecticut
In the eyes of surrounding New England states, Connecticut might seem like it has a bit of an identity crisis, nestled between New York City and Boston. But Connecticut is bursting with things to do — from state parks and public gardens to art, museums and historic sites. Oh, and pizza! Ours is the best. It’s not up for debate.
- Learn more about day trips along the Connecticut shoreline from WSHU.
- Find spots to visit in northern and central Connecticut from Connecticut Public.
Day Trips in Maine
Maine is known as “Vacationland,” and it really lives up to that name. Whether you want a day trip to the beach, a coastal hike or a mountain lake swim, Maine has it all. As you may have heard, the state is known for its seafood, especially lobster. You’ll also find spectacular lighthouses and ocean views. You might even see a whale or a moose if you’re lucky!
- Learn more about day trips to Maine from Maine Public.
