Do you love quaint towns and lush natural beauty with the opportunity to relax on serene beaches and spot whales? The Northeast United States is for you. Here are the best places for every traveler to visit in the Northeast United States.
It’s easy for first-timers to the northeast to get swept off their feet by popular favorites, such as New York City, Washington D.C, and Boston. While these are incredible places to visit in the Northeast of the U.S., there are numerous hidden gems to explore. Plus, you can visit anytime in the year as there are diverse activities each season.
For instance, beach activities are for summer while skiing and winter sports are for winter. The stunning foliage during the fall season, the mild weather, and the natural beauty in spring are also beautiful to experience.
The United States has plenty of gorgeous places to explore and the Northeast is no exception. Hence, in this guide, I will share the hidden gems of the Northeast with a sprinkle of popular tourist destinations to aid your vacation plans.
Let’s dive in!
Hidden Gems of the Northeast United States
Let’s start with the hidden gems of the Northeast.
8. Finger Lakes, New York
The Canandaigua Lake, Finger Lakes New York
The Finger Lakes are one of the hidden gems of the Northeast United States. Families, adventurers, and foodies would love the Finger Lakes in New York for its gorgeous lakes, fresh locally sourced foods, great wines, and wonderful outdoors.
Having some of the best lakes in New York, The Finger Lakes comprises seven beautiful lakes, five out of which are located in Ontario County. The region is mostly known for its wines as there are numerous wineries allowing visitors to taste freshly brewed wines and learn of their age-long history.
All the lakes offer their own unique experience, however, my favorites include Canandaigua Lake and Seneca Lake. Here you can relax on the lake or engage in energizing activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing. You can rent a boat for a family cruise or enjoy a lake cruise on a paddleboat. Another great activity is hiking the many waterfall trails in the region.
Beautiful Waterfalls on Seneca Lake
Afterward, eat some delicious traditional crepes at Simply Crepes, a local restaurant in Canandaigua. For a more luxurious experience, you can dine at the Ports Cafè, a popular Seneca Lake restaurant with an endless list of specials. Enjoy your meals with a side of pure wine.
Your visit is not complete without experiencing one of the numerous hotels with lakeside views.
Tip: As great as the region is for wine-tasting tours, hiking, and more, you may not find restaurants serving lunch until 6 pm. Even some of the hotels do not offer lunch services. But, you can get fast food from the many fast food chains in the region.
Check out the Best Places to Visit in the USA with Family.
7. Casco Bay Islands, Maine – Hidden Gems of the Northeast
Casco Bay Islands
The Casco Bay Islands are a group of islands located off the harbor of Portland, Maine. These islands, eight in number (Peaks Island, Bailey Island, Cliff Island, Chebeague, Great Diamond, Diamond Cove, Little Diamond, and Long Island) all have their natural beauty, pretty beaches, and activities.
Six out of the eight islands are accessible by ferry – the Casco Bay Lines. Only Diamond Cove and Bailey Island are not covered by Casco Bay Lines because Diamond Cove is located in Great Diamond Island while Bailey Island does not have a large land mass.
For a serene holiday, head to Cliff Island or Bailey Island which are the smallest Casco Bay Islands.
Meanwhile, the Great Diamond Island known for the historic Fort McKinley is one of the best Casco Bay Islands known for its lush forests and rocky shorelines. You can head to the stunning Diamond Cove where there are beaches, a museum, and tennis courts. While here you can stay at the Inn at Diamond Cove so you can have access to activities and attractions.
Peaks Island, Casco Bay
However, the secret not often told about The Great Diamond Island is that the people are not accommodating, hence you need a guide to explore the town.
The most visited of the Casco Bay Islands is Peaks Island, just 17 minutes from Portland. Many visitors love the island for their hospitality and the relaxing ferry travels. You may be lucky to be on the cruise where a lively narration of the history of the island is shared as you take in the stunning views of the island. This only happens when there are ten passengers or more on the cruise.
Tip: Golf carts are the only mode of transportation on Peaks Island and they get booked out fast. So, you should book in advance or as soon as you get off the ferry.
6. Block Island, Rhode Island – Best Places to Visit in Northeast United States
Block Island, Northeast USA
Only a short ferry ride from the mainland is a hidden gem of New England, Block Island. It is one of the best places to visit in the Northeast having unspoiled white sand beaches, natural sights, and farm-to-table meals.
The best way to explore Block Island, Rhode Island is biking. So, hop on a bike and go on a self-tour around the island to see historic landmarks. Then, ride to Crescent Beach, a tourist spot, or the well-sheltered off-the-beaten-path of Baby Beach with shallow waters, great for families with kids.
Kids will also love the 1661 Farm and Gardens, a small farm housing a collection of exotic animals like sheep, goats, camels, kangaroos, and more.
Block Island North Lighthouse
Also, appreciate the green scenery at the Cow Cove/North Light area and attempt the shifting sands on Block Island North Lighthouse.
Take a break from the sightseeing by enjoying a local meal in the number one restaurant at Block Island, Aldo’s Restaurant.
Travel Tip: The summer months are peak season in Block Island, so book accommodations in advance. The spring months, April, May, and early June are the best times to visit the island.
5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts – Best Places to Visit in the Northeast
Sandwich Glass Museum Archives, Cape Cod
Cape Cod, Massachusetts is one of the Northeast travel destinations in the USA boasting white-sand beaches, rolling dunes, beautiful lighthouses, and fresh seafood. The land offers a laid-back beach vacation experience for beach lovers and adventure-seekers.
Take the Cape Cod Railroad from Hyannis to Sandwich, the oldest town in Cape Cod to see historical sites like the Sandwich Glass Museum and Dunbar’s English Tea Room for high tea. Return to Hyannis to see the Kennedy Hyannis Museum featuring great photos, short videos, and a great souvenir shop. Stop over at Dennis to enjoy fried seafood and ice cream at Kream ‘n’ Kone.
Popular tourist destinations in Cape Cod include Chatham, Harwich, and Falmouth. Visit Chatham Lighthouse Beach which has most of the stunning views on the Cape. But there are no bathroom facilities on the beach as you’re not expected to stay there. The Oyster Pond Beach in Chatham is also a great place for evening views of the Cape especially if you’re with kids. Enjoy the delicious oyster meal Cape Cod is known for while in Chatham.
Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Cape Cod
Located in Harwich is Cape Cod Lavender Farm, a pure joy to visit having a small shop with items from the lavender like soaps, shampoos, room sprays, and more.
You shouldn’t miss the seal or whale watching that happens just about in every town on Cape Cod. I recommend visiting Monomoy Island for bird and whale watching.
If you have more time, relax on the famous Wood Neck Beach in Falmouth, and enjoy the live theater and harborside concerts that Falmouth offers.
Tip: The best time to visit Cape Cod, Massachusetts is the shoulder season in mid-April to early June or September to November. However, summer, which is the peak season, is the only time all attractions are open, but it’s expensive. So, choose wisely.
While in Cape Cod, keep your valuables close due to pickpockets and other petty crimes in the region.
4. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Kancamagus Scenic Byway
No doubt, one of the most scenic drives in the United States, the Kancamagus Highway is a twisting stretch of road that runs from North Conway to Lincoln. It takes only about an hour to cover this picturesque highway offering beautiful views and a chance to see some wildlife like bears.
It is a fun place for families and solo travelers because there are lots of photographic hiking trails and picnic spots. I suggest picking a map at the Ranger Station, so you don’t miss the pullouts.
Sabbaday Falls, Kancamagus Highways
Visit in the peak summer season or during the fall and take your drive on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. As you go, you’ll pass through the White Mountain National Forest with views of the White Mountain, Sabbaday Falls, Swift River, Lower Falls, and Rocky Gorge.
You can stop at the White Mountain National Forest and hike the Flume Slide Trail to Liberty Spring Trail. There are campgrounds for picnics and calm rivers where you can relax.
Although the Kancamagus Highway does not have lots of views, it’s a great place for some family time and outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: Start your drive early and carry enough drinkable water for your journey.
Must-Visit Places in the Northeast United States
Here are the top destinations in the Northeast United States.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Common, Boston, United States
This is a popular tourist destination in the Northeast United States with a rich history, excellent museums, and a lively atmosphere. Most people praise the Boston for its walkable streets, great public transportation, and outdoor activities.
To get a feel of the city, I recommend taking the Old Town Trolley Tour. It is a hop-on hop-off tour, so you can hop off at any place of interest. You would see some of the American Revolutionary War historical sites on this tour. Some of these sites include Paul Revere’s home, the Freedom Trail, and Boston Commons.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
Also, set aside a morning to take a walk around the Boston neighborhood. Visit world-class museums like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Science Museum.
For some entertainment, head to the Opera House, and the Improv Asylum is a must-visit for comedy events. Shop in downtown Boston for incredible designer shoes at reasonable prices.
Sports fans can catch an Ice Hockey Game with the Red Sox, Celtics, or Bruins team. After watching the game, drink wine at Greatest Bar or Whiskey Park.
Pro Tip: Pubs and bars require an ID to access them, so make your passport handy. Boston is a popular city, accommodations are expensive. To reduce cost, get a Boston City Pass that gives you access to museums and sights free of charge, and a 50% off for theater.
2. New York City, New York – Best Places to Visit in Northeast United States
Statue of Liberty, New York City
From the tallest skyscrapers that make you look like an ant when staring at them to the largest museums, and Broadway shows, New York City takes the cake as the best place to visit in the Northeast. It is also considered one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in, owing to its cultural diversity and vibrant city vibes.
The subway is still the best public transportation to get around the city, though there may be delays, especially on weekends. While you’re in New York City, you must see the iconic landmarks, including Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. You can picnic in the Central Park.
Harry Potter, New York
Then, browse art galleries in Chelsea, shop at SoHo, and grab a drink in the East Village. Take the subway or walk along the Brooklyn Bridge to enjoy scenic views of the city. You can also hop on a ferry to see the city from the sea.
Fans of the Harry Potter series can visit Harry Potter New York. Also, see historic sites like Theodore Roosevelt’s birthplace and the Museum of Chinese in America.
Your visit to New York City is not complete without a Broadway Show.
Travel Tips: As earlier mentioned, New York is one of the most expensive cities to live in, I advise you to book accommodations in advance of your trip. Get a city pass that gives you access to most attractions like sites and parks for free. Budget travelers should consider dining at low-end restaurants and food trucks.
1. Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian Museum of American History, Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. has an incredible blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life, making it a top destination in the Northeast USA. Five days is not enough to do justice to this city, you may have to return.
Familiarize yourself with American history by taking a tour of the Smithsonian Museum of American History, the Air & Space Museum, the Capitol and Library of Congress, and the Pentagon. My favorite is the FBI Museum, not far from the Smithsonian Museum. There, you will see hundreds of weapons and “live fire” demonstrations.
Air & Space Museum, Washington D.C.
Security is high in all these buildings, so you should be ready to submit to screenings.
Also, see the WWII, Korean War Memorial, and Vietnam Memorial, all solemn tributes to our fallen heroes.
Then, take the metro to the Pentagon Shopping Mall, a large three-storied mall with all kinds of stores known to man.
Tips: Washington D.C is an expensive city, so save money by using the metro which is budget-friendly.
Also read: Best Places to Travel on a Budget.
Best Places to Visit in Northeast United States – Conclusion
The Northeast United States stands out for its distinct culture and history. The region is inviting to tourists for its vast outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty, and untouched lakes with New York City, Boston, Cape Cod, and Block Island as popular destinations.
Start to create great memories as you explore these best places to visit in the Northeast. Remember that summer is the peak season for most of the destinations, so book ahead. For the big cities like Boston and New York City, save costs by taking public transportation and eating in downtown restaurants.
Now, I’d love to hear from you in the comments! Which destination are you most excited about?
Share your experience if you have been to any of these destinations.
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