100 Things to do in New England
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41. Take the ferry to Islesboro Maine
Islesboro, a small island off the coast of Maine, is a beautiful & relaxing summer vacation destination. A 3 mile ferry ride from Lincolnville Beach is the only way to access this secluded island. I had the unique privilege to live on this island for several months. This is where I first learned about seaglass which became one of my favorite hobbies (and still is to this day). The remote setting provides much needed relaxation and beauty for city dwellers. Bike riding, beach combing (sea glass is abundant), and nature walks are a few popular summer activities. The quaint setting and remote location makes the island especially attractive to celebrities: John Travolta, Kirstie Alley, Chris O’Donnell and various other celebs are part-time residents.
Additional information on Islesboro, Maine
Location: U.S. 1, Lincolnville, ME 04849 (Ferry leaves from Lincolnville Beach)
42. See the largest floor mosaic at the Worcester Art Museum
The Worcester Art Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in art. The collection is quite impressive for a small city. Honestly, I was really surprised and not expecting much going in. I returned several times because I was so impressed. Most notably, the museum is home to the largest floor mosaic in the US. The museum is small, although possibly one of the most beautiful I have encountered. What I love most is the awesome stained glass collection; this alone makes it worthy of a daytrip. On a side note, there is a great little cafe in town called NU Kitchen; they serve great coffee, pastires, and health lunch wraps.
Location: 55 Salisbury St. Worcester, MA 01609
43. Enjoy a quiet morning stroll at West Island Town Beach
This hidden gem on the Southeast coast of Massachusetts is a gorgeous secluded escape away from the tourist crowds. Laid-back and tranquil, West Island is the perfect place to take a summer morning stroll. The relaxing views of the water and salt marshes are well worth the drive. If you are seeking a quiet oasis away from the tourist crowds, West Island is a wonderful choice.
Location: Fir Street Fairhaven, MA 02719
44. Plan a winter skate date at The Providence Rink
The Providence ice rink at the Bank Newport City Center is the nicest rink in both Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts. In fact, at 14,000 square feet, the rink is twice the size of Rockefeller Center! Plenty of room to skate here unlike Boston’s packed Frog Pond. I love Frog Pond because of the access to other city attractions, but I feel the Providence rink is a better date destination. Also, parking is less of a hassle and much cheaper. Mike and I often take a walk around the Providence mall, find somewhere to eat, and then skate here; the perfect winter date.
The season starts in November and ends in late March. Daytime and happy hour specials occur throughout the season. Be on the lookout for special events (recently they hosted a “Disney on Ice” performance).
Location: 2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence, RI 02903
45. Enjoy great views of Buzzards Bay at Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary
This beautiful coastal sanctuary includes a variety of trails with direct access to the ocean and gorgeous views of ponds and marshes. The best views of Buzzards Bay can be found along the Beach Loop Trail. Exploring this small preserve is the ideal summer activity for anyone interested in the beach, bird watching opportunities (great blue herons are common), and hiking.
Location: 1280 Horseneck Rd, Westport, MA 02790
46. Cool down at Rocky Neck State Park Beach
Connecticut is home to some of the best beaches in New England. East Lyme is a charming town with a Gilmore Girls-esque appeal (if you have seen the show, you will know what I mean). The area is home to many beautiful beaches with Rocky Neck being one of the best for swimming. The sand is soft and white and the waves are big enough to have some fun, without interfering with swimming. I’ve found a lot of shells here, so it’s also great for beachcombing. Visit on weekday afternoons for the fewest crowds. Also note that parking is more expensive for non residents.
A few of my favorite Connecticut beaches
Location: 244 W Main St, Niantic, CT 06357
47. Take a ride along Pawtucket’s Ten Mile River Greenway
Pawtucket, Rhode Island (just a short drive from the capitol Providence) is home to beautiful Slater Memorial Park, which is home to a scenic 3 mile bike path along the Ten Mile River. This picturesque paved path is new, clean, tree-lined, and provides lovely views of the river. It’s one of my favorite short bike paths in the state. Mike and I visited this park frequently while living in Fall River. It’s basically got everything: a massive dog park, the oldest looff standing carousel, a small art museum, hiking trails, and even paddleboat rentals.
Location: RR 1A, Pawtucket, RI 02860
48. Take a stroll around “America’s Oldest Park”
Boston Common, the oldest urban park in America, is also the starting point of the historic Freedom Trail. During the spring and summer months, the park is a perfect place for a stroll. There are a number of historic monuments to check out. In the winter, you will find a festive ice rink on Frog Pond. This central park is also home to numerous ongoing city events such as the annual Christmas Tree lighting and New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration.
Location: 131 Tremont St. Boston, MA 02111
49. Take a fall foliage cruise in Salem
Salem is a hot spot for leaf peeping during New England’s iconic fall foliage season. A boat ride is a fun way for non hikers to enjoy the scenery. Mahi Mahi is a Salem cruise line which offers various harbor cruises, including special fall foliage and Halloween cruises throughout October. I found the Halloween cruise both scenic and entertaining. Note that it can get really chilly on the water, so dress warm and arrive early to get an inside heated seat! During the cruise, you will get to hear many haunted stories from Salem’s past, so even adults should find it pretty entertaining.
You will also have the opportunity to engage in a number of on board festive holiday activities such as: tarot card readings, fortune teller readings, and Halloween face painting. A full bar and snacks are available. Overall, this cruise is a great, festive experience for everyone in the family.
Location: 24 Congress St, Salem, MA 01970
50. Take a Maine lighthouse tour
Maine comes in second to Michigan in terms of number of lighthouses in the country (coming in at 80 vs. Michigan 120). You have the option of taking a self-guided tour of signing up for a guided tour, which may be a better option if you are a history buff.
