15 Spectacular Places in the Northeast
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.
11. Devil’s Hopyard State Park
East Haddam, Connecticut is one of the prime areas in New England for spectacular leaf peeping. The best way to immerse yourself in the colors of the season is via a quiet hike through Devil’s Hopyard State Forest.
Asides from leaf peeping, there is a gorgeous waterfall and covered bridge to see here. It would be a shame to pass up such a great park during the region’s best season. The cool crisp air, the striking colors, nature, exercise, photography, and peace and quiet all rolled into one; you just can’t top it!
12. Walkway over the Hudson
One of New York’s most scenic destinations is the Walkway Over the Hudson. At this iconic attraction, you can take a 1.25 mile long path over the Hudson River. This year-round pedestrian path happens to be the longest elevated bridge in the world. It’s quite a sight during any season, but even more amazing during the peak of fall. The walkway provides the perfect setting for a refreshing walk. Take a break from your computer and phone and enjoy the wonders of nature in a breathtaking setting.
Because the Walkway is open year-round, you have the opportunity to check out how the scenery changes with each passing season. Of course, a fall visit would be the most impressive with the colors covering the mountains. Nevertheless, whenever you decide to visit, you will be treated to a picturesque setting.
13. Central Park
As one of the most visited and beautiful urban parks in the country, Central Park is well worth a spot on your bucket list. Not only is there so much to see and do here, but the park’s scenery changes drastically with the seasons. From summertime greenery, to vivid fall foliage, to a snowy winter wonderland, the park shines anytime of year. I really loved my experience attending the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. Even though I had to get up at like 2 in the morning (driving from Philly) and it was freezing and crowded, I had a blast. I loved seeing all the balloons in person.
Famous attractions include the Central Park Zoo, the Wollman Ice Rink, the historic carousel, and Strawberry Fields (John Lennon memorial). My favorite time to visit is during the quiet winter months. The weather is refreshingly brisk, the crowds have disappeared, and the famous ice rink is open. Movie buffs will quickly remember the rink featured in 2 great holiday classics: Home Alone 2 and Serendipity!
Plus there are so many amazing Christmas activities to enjoy. Check out my NYC Christmas bucket list for more details! I’ve wanted to visit the city forever during this time and finally planned a daytrip while conveniently living in Philadelphia.
14. The beaches of Rhode Island
Rhode Island, aptly nicknamed “The Ocean State,” has its’ fair share of beautiful beaches. Scarborough Town Beach in Narragansett is amazing; it’s wide and features smooth sand and gorgeous quaint views. Gooseberry Beach and Second Beach in Newport are also worthy of a visit. If you are a fan of collecting seaglass, head over to Teddy’s Beach in Portsmouth for an abundance of new pieces to add to your collection. In addition, all of these beaches provide a wonderful setting for taking a long, relaxing stroll. Scarsborough is perfect for summer swimming and sunbathing, while Gooseberry is great for photography.
The best aspect of Rhode Island beaches is that they typically only get busy during the prime summer months. Fall and winter, if you can bare the cold, are actually ideal times to take a solitary walk. There are many benefits to visiting in the winter, namely the fact that the beaches do not stay busy all year like California and Florida beaches. Although many complain of the short summer season and cold, long winter season, perhaps, the greatest treasure of all is having a magnificent beach all to yourself.
15. Sachuest Point Wildlife Refuge
Rhode Island is home to numerous fantastic hikes, nature preserves, and natural wonders. One of these beautiful places to explore is Sachuest Point Wildlife Refuge, a coastal sanctuary located in Middletown (near Newport). To date, this is still one of my favorite preserves I have ever visited. It’s definitely a hidden gem amongst the Newport tourist congestion.
Hiking the trails, wildlife photography, birdwatching, exploring the nature museum, and just enjoying the gorgeous marsh and ocean views make for a fun-filled, yet relaxing day out. This beautiful preserve was frequently on our weekend lineup while living in the region. Just be sure to check for ticks after any hike here – we found one on Mike’s neck but fortunately got it off in time!
