20 Incredible & Free Tourist Attractions 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.
The Northeast is a beautiful and exciting region of the United States. Both New England and the Mid Atlantic states are typically included, and thus, there is an abundance of geographically diverse recreational areas, as well as historic cities to explore. From America’s most populated city, to the nation’s capital, to gorgeous national and state forests, to historic landmarks, to quaint coastal towns, there is something to do no matter your interests. Fortunately, you do not have to spend a lot of money to have a great time! Free tourist attractions are easy to come across throughout the region, no matter where your travels take you. Thus far, I have lived in various cities in Massachusetts, Maine, and Pennsylvania. I continue to plan to exploring this amazing area of the country no matter where my life situation or travels take me!
Interestingly, the Northeast is both the most populated and the most forested portion of the country! From an action packed adventure in NYC or Philadelphia, to a rustic hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, to skiing in the Appalachian mountains of Vermont, diverse vacation destinations await. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget friendly history and nature attractions to add to your bucket list. Check out my favorite free tourist attractions!
1. The Freedom Trail
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
The top tourist attraction in one of America’s prettiest and most historical cities is free. The 2.5 mile long Freedom Trail is one of the country’s historical treasures. The red brick line trail is easy to follow as you navigate Boston’s rich history. Along the way, you will pass 16 sites of historical significance. There’s lot of history to explore, architectural wonders to photograph, ancient cemeteries to meander through, and lovely parks to take a break and enjoy nature. Highlights include: Boston Common (the country’s oldest park), the Old South Meeting House (where the Tea Party originated), the USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned warship afloat), the Bunker Hill monument (climb 294 steps for an amazing view!) and Faneuil Hall (site of America’s first town meeting).
A full guide & Freedom trail map
More free fun to enjoy in Boston
2. Kaaterskill Falls
Location: Upstate New York
At 260 feet, Kaaterskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in New York state. Located in the beautiful Catskill mountains region, the trek through maple, oak, and beech trees is beautiful in and of itself. Fortunately, the trail is only 0.7 miles long so pretty much doable by anyone in basic shape. The waterfall is even more picturesque during the leafy fall season (really the entire Catskills region enjoys brilliant fall foliage). Note that with over 200,000 visitors per year, this hike can get busy. Plan on arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds! After your hike, there are many more beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls to explore in this wonderful section of the Catskills.
Check out my Catskills vacation guide
3. White Mountains National Forest
Location: New Hampshire and Maine
The 800,000 acre wooded wonderland is one of only 2 national forests in New England. If you are seeking a quiet getaway far away from city life, then the White Mountains will not disappoint. From hardwood forests, to mountain alpine streams, it’s one of the most beautiful regions of New England. From spring waterfall hikes after the snow melts, to summer hiking amongst wildflowers, to fall leaf peeping, to winter snowshoeing in an idyllic snow covered forest, there is never a bad season to visit. In addition to over 1200 miles of hiking trails, there are many quaint inns and B&Bs found throughout the region (the Bear Mountain Lodge is amazing). Staying in the White Mountains is an ideal choice for a restful & rejuvenating vacation.
Learn more about the White Mountains National Forest
4. Devil’s Hopyard State Park
Location: East Haddam, Connecticut
This beautiful 1000 acre park in Southeastern Connecticut is home to a gorgeous 60 foot waterfall, a covered bridge, and miles of hiking trails. It is an amazing place to visit during Connecticut’s gorgeous leaf peeping season, of which East Haddam frequently ranks as one of the best. This time of the year the entire area is ablaze with hues of gold, orange, and red – really it is one of the best foliage destinations in the state. As to the unusual name, legend says that the devil himself created the mysterious potholes found near the waterfall. Not surprisingly, today the park is considered one of the most haunted places in the state, no small feat for an area of the country no stranger to the eerie and paranormal occurrences.
See more pics from the beautiful Devil’s Hopyard hike
5. Liberty Bell
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
One of the most iconic symbols of American Independence is located in Old City Philadelphia, “the birthplace of America.” The timeless message inscripted on the bell “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof” inspired abolitionists seeking to end slavery. Today, the bell remains an important symbol of liberty. The bell rung for the first time on July 8, 1776 from the tower of Independence Hall (formerly Pennsylvania State House) to celebrate the Declaration of Independence. At this free exhibit, you can take a self guided tour while you learn more about the history of the bell including the history of the famous crack and much more!
