Although the winter months in New England sometimes means a lot of dark & cold days, there are just too many weekend getaway spots to visit to just let the winter months pass us by. Whether you consider yourself a ski bunny or just a weekend warrior, hop in the car and get started planning your next journey in New England.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe has a special place in my heart since I would visit there with my family once a year growing up. Stowe is an ideal place for a couples getaway and can be spent on the mountain skiing & snowboarding or even exploring the town. It is known for its popular restaurant spots such as Doc Ponds, Matterhorn & Ranch Camp. Stowe is also a big hit for breweries like the Von Trapp brewery and the very popular Alchemist Brewery. If you need a break from the beer.. you can enjoy mountain views on the Stowe Gondola Skyride or even the Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop where you can tour the factory.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is known for a summer destination and can typically be overlooked in the winter. What many people don't know is how much Newport has to offer in the winter months. Since it is "out of season" you'll find popular spots less crowded and better deals on some costal stays. Around Christmas time, the famous Newport Mansions are decorated in lights and holiday decor. You can walk buy tickets and walk through the light show as well as the mansions. If you are looking to spend time relaxing book a massage or a spa day at the Bohdi Spa. If the weather is warm enough (which it tends to be sometimes in Rhode Island) take a walk along the Cliff Walk and enjoy the views along the water.
Portland, Maine
Portland can be very cold during the winter months so make sure to pack your warmest clothes! With those cold temperatures usually means less crowds. Portland is known for its many breweries, quaint shops, and amazing eats. Some of my personal favorites in Portland are Duck Fat, The Holy Donut, High Roller Lobster Company, and Hot Suppa. If you have a love for 80's music and nightlife, check out Bubba's Sulky Lounge for some throwback hits and dancing. If you need a break from all the food & beer, take a drive to the Portland Head Light which is an iconic lighthouse not farm from downtown.
Boston, Massachusetts
To beat the heat and the crowds sometimes found in this city, spend a weekend in Boston during the winter. In many cases the winter months in Massachusetts aren't as chilly as they seem to be and you could get lucky with a weekend in the 50's! During Christmas time, check out the Faneuil Hall tree lighting and the Christmas Market in Seaport. If you want to spend some more time outdoors, you can rent skates and go iceskating at the Boston Common Frog Pond. If you want to spend more time indoors away from the cold, walk through the Prudential Center and even enjoy beautiful city views from the skywalk observatory where you're done.
North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway is packed with tons of activities for couples, families, and even young kids. Growing up, North Conway was a frequent weekend destination for me, spending lots of time skiing Attitash mountain with family and friends. Want to check out a different mountain? Wildcat & Cranmore are not far! If you're looking for some more relaxing actives but still want to enjoy the mountain views, take a ride on the Kancamangus highway, which is considered one of the most scenic highways in the US. Or you can ride the train on the Conway Scenic Railroad to just sit back and take in the snowy views all around.
Mystic, Connecticut
On your way into Mystic make a quick stop in Olde Mystic Village. Avoid going around Christmas time if you are trying to stay away from crowds. However, make sure to stop in Sticky Situations for some delicious honey & sauces and Cloak and Wand for some spooky gifts (especially if you're a Harry Potter or Stranger Things fan). Downtown Mystic is littered with charm, especially in the winter months. Stroll in and out of the some of the small shops & bookstores and cross over the iconic draw bridge, but don't forget to stop and take some pictures. Make a reservation for dinner at Bravo Bravo & dessert at SIFT Bakery. Mystic also offers some outdoor activities outside of downtown such as hiking and strolling along the Mystic River Park.
Bethel, Maine
Bethel is home to some of the best skiing in the Northeast and one of my personal favorites, Sunday River. Bethel offers many outdoors activities other than the slopes themselves such as tubing, snowmobiling, fat bike rentals, and even sleigh rides. This is truly an outdoorsman's paradise. Your weekend would not be complete without stopping for a dinner & a drink at the Matterhorn which boasts the true spirit of a Apré Ski bar not far from Sunday River.
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