100 Things to do in New England
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
81. Hike at Breakheart Reservation
This year-round Massachusetts park, located in Saugus and Wakefield, offers biking, hiking, and cross country skiing trails. Great views, including those of the Boston skyline and surrounding rural landscapes, can be seen from several of the hills. The best time to visit Breakheart is during the warm summer months, especially with 2 freshwater lakes for swimming. With lots to do in the outdoor department, this is a great summer daytrip destination from Boston.
Location: 177 Forest St, Saugus, MA 01906
82. Savor a traditional Irish meal at an authentic Irish Pub
There are no shortage of authentic Irish pubs in every New England state. The top 5 states with people claiming Irish ancestry are all New England states. The Boston metro area is home to the most Irish people and the best Irish pubs. My favorite Irish pub is located in Worcester – an area also known for hosting a killer St. Pat’s Day parade. O’Connor’s offers a charming dining atmosphere, plus great food, nice Irish décor, and a beautiful bar. They also offer a full vegetarian menu (pretty rare!), featuring plenty of tempting choices, even for meat-eaters! St. Patrick’s Day, or not, O’Connor’s is the best place to go for an Irish meal in a great pub atmosphere.
Location: 1160 W Boylston St, Worcester, MA 01606
83. Browse through the collection at the Plymouth Museum of Art
Plymouth’s art museum is one of the best non-waterfront attractions in town. It’s a great place to visit when you tire of historical attractions. Although small, the museum is elegant and impressive. It’s conveniently located just steps from the waterfront. Throughout the year, special exhibits and live music will possibly accompany your visit.
Location: 11 North St Plymouth, MA 02360
84. Enjoy the peace and quiet at Hole in the Wall Beach
A laid-back beach featuring gorgeous views, Hole in the Wall is the perfect summertime escape for those seeking something a bit less touristy and congested. Whether you feel like reading the latest novel, sunbathing, or just walking along the coast you are sure to experience much needed R&R. One of the top beaches to check out in Southeastern Connecticut.
Location: McCook Pl. East Lyme, CT 06357
85. Run through Gillette Stadium at the Finish at the 50 5k race
Every summer, Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium hosts a 5k & 10k race, where runners get to cross through the field and finish at the 50 yard line. This is a great opportunity for any Patriots fans. A section of the race runs through the stadium ramps, providing fantastic views of the stadium below. Not the easiest 5k around (those ramps really gave my legs a workout); however, the opportunity to step inside the field of your favorite players is pretty incredible!
As a New England & Tom Brady fan of many years, this is one of my favorite 5ks I have ever participated in! I highly recommend checking it out if you are into football & running! Unfortunately, it was in the 90’s and super humid on race day, so it was not my best PR, but it was definitely a fun time!
My exerience running Finish at the 50
Location: 1 Patriot Pl, Foxborough, MA 02035
86. Explore the Boston coffee scene
Coffee lovers will definitely want to plan a trip to Boston. The city frequently ranks as one of the best coffee cities in the country. In 2021, Wallet Hub ranked it the 10th best in America. The beautiful architecture and historic sites in the city make grabbing a local cup of joe even more appealing. One of my favorite local stops is Thinking Cup on Newbury Street. In addition to serving top end espresso and pastries, the historical setting (and outdoor patio) are both gorgeous. Cafe Vittoria is another fabulous option. This quaint European style cafe serves great espresso, desserts, and gelato!
More great coffeehouses in Boston
87. Hunt for seaglass
Collecting seaglass became a hobby of mine after living in Islesboro. The beaches here are home to some of the best seaglass you will ever find; I found more rare cobalt blue and turquoise here than anywhere else. However, almost the entire New England coast is a seaglass lover’s dream destination. Acadia National Park is one of the top spots. Pictured above is just one day of collecting at Scusset State Beach; I found some pretty cool pieces here including part of a Coke bottle and a perfectly rounded turquoise gem.
More of my favorite beaches include:
- Race Point Beach in Provincetown
- Teddy’s Beach in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
- Jamestown Island
- Pavillion Beach in Gloucester
- Plymouth Beach
88. Take a winter stroll along Little Harbor Beach
It may seem strange to visit a beach during the winter months, however, the beautiful icy winter scenery at Wareham’s Little Harbor beach is incredible. A random stop led us to a hidden gem: a quaint, peaceful beach with gorgeous Buzzard’s Bay views! It’s also a great place to birdwatch. Tip: while in the area, be sure to check out Great Neck Wildlife Refuge, another beautiful recreational hotspot in Wareham.
Location: Little Harbor Rd. Wareham, MA
89. Take a tour of the Rhode Island State House
Providence, the capital of Rhode Island, is home to the elaborate State House building. Although the building was originally constructed in the early 1900s, it was later remodeled in the 1990’s. The beautiful dome is one of the largest self-supporting marble domes in the world. Weekday tours of the inside are available for free to anyone interested in exploring the interior.
Learn more about Rhode Island State House tours
Location: 82 Smith St Providence, RI 02903
90. Book a relaxing getaway at The Inn at Ocean’s Edge
There are so many beautiful inns and bed and breakfasts available in Maine that it can be an overwhelming experience figuring out which one is best. The Inn at Ocean’s Edge, located in coastal Lincolnville, offers a picturesque setting right on the ocean. The amenities here are top notch: an infinity pool, meticulously manicured grounds, private access to the water, and a complimentary breakfast in the waterfront dining room. Note: the inn is seasonal and typically opens sometime in early May.
Location: 24 Stonecoast Rd. Lincolnville, ME 04849
