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.
11. Smithsonian Museums/The National Mall of DC
Location: Washington D.C.
If you are at all interested in politics and history, then you will want to place a vacation to D.C. high on your bucket list. The beautiful National Mall is home to so many interesting monuments and statues, all of which can be explored via a self guided walking tour. From the Capitol Hill building to the Lincoln Memorial is about a 2 mile walk, with gorgeous views and historical significance throughout. Also, all 17 Smithsonian museums are free! Highlights include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, The National Air and Space Museum, and The National Portrait Gallery featuring wonderful artwork dedicated to each President as well as many other famous and historical figures.
Full guide to exploring The National Mall
12. Cape Cod National Seashore
Location: Cape Cod Massachusetts
The 40 mile long Cape Cod National Seashore is home to many pristine beaches, ponds, marshes, and uplands. It’s a beautiful relaxing vacation destination especially for those seeking to escape the urban congestion of nearby cities like Boston, Providence, and New York. Coast Guard Beach marks the start of what Henry David Thoreau called “The Great Beach” – an uninterrupted 20+ mile long sandy coastline. He said “A man may stand there and put all America behind him.” Other Cape Cod highlights include Race Point Beach in Provincetown (a fabulous sunset destination), Marconi Beach (a seal and whale watching hotspot), and the Great Island trail (one of the most scenic trails in the state).
My favorite free Cape Cod hikes and bike paths
13. East Bay Bike Path
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
This gorgeous 14.5 mile bike path in Rhode Island’s capital city is easily one of the most gorgeous in all of New England. This rail trail has been included in the Rails to Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame category. Most of the flat paved path runs along the scenic waterfront or passes lovely park areas. There are numerous detours to enjoy along the way including state and local parks (check out beautiful Colt and Haines State Park). After your ride, treat yourself to some fresh seafood at Quitos.
More info on the East Bay bike path
14. Plymouth waterfront/Pilgrim Memorial State Park
Location: Plymouth, Massachusetts
This gorgeous waterfront park draws over a million visitors per year. History buffs from all over the country come to see Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower replica (both free to look at). The harbor views are fabulous and there are numerous beaches where you can stroll around and even collect a little rare seaglass. Whale watching cruises are super fun although a bit on the pricey side. Also, there are lots of tourist shops to browse and restaurants featuring fresh seafood and beautiful patios facing the waterfront. Mamma Mia’s is a local Italian gem and Wood’s serves delicious seafood in a beautiful waterfront setting.
There are many more historical sights to enjoy throughout the city via a free self guided walking tour. Must sees include the 80 foot National Monument to our Forefathers statue, 17th century Burial Hill (several Pilgrims buried here), and Leyden St (the oldest continuously inhabited street in the US) – all free. Also consider signing up for the Plymouth Night Tour – best ghost tour in New England!
15. Cliffwalk
Location: Newport, Rhode Island
This incredible 3.5 mile walk along the Newport shoreline is considered the top attraction in Rhode Island. It is the first National Recreation Trail in New England. The beauty of the New England coastline is hard to top here. Along with enjoying beautiful water scenery, native plant life, and birdwatching, you will also get to take in the beauty of the historical Newport mansions. These spectacular Gilded Age mansions are quite a sight to behold. Packages to tour the opulent interiors are available, although Cliffwalk really is an experience in and of itself if you are seeking to keep your trip budget friendly. Tip – also be sure to check out beautiful Easton’s beach (Free parking during the off season).
