6 great New England day trips

Just an hour’s drive from Hartford, Mystic offers visitors an unforgettable, charming coastal escape. Start your day with breakfast in town from Sift Bake Shop, before exploring the Mystic Seaport Museum, the largest maritime museum in the United States. Across more than 60 buildings spanning 19 acres, discover America’s seafaring past by wandering through a recreated coastal village, shipyard and artifact collections. With a potential new appreciation for the sea, unwind with a scenic cruise along the Mystic River. Or rent a pedal, row or sailboat if you’re in the mood to take the day into your own hands (or feet).

Looking for a thrill? Mystic Aquarium hosts New England’s only live beluga whale exhibit. There are also seals, sea lions and stingrays you can feed.

Nearest airport: Bradley International Airport (BDL)

A quintessential New England summer waits for you in Newport. A quick drive from Providence, the historic Cliff Walk (it’s not as scary as the name suggests, trust me) is the perfect starting point. Soak up the soft morning sun as pristine Gilded Age mansions contrast the rocky, jagged shorelines. Keep your phones handy to capture the stunning views and scan informational QR codes along the trail.

After, tour The Breakers, a mammoth of opulence once the Vanderbilts’ largest summer home. Finish the day chasing the sunset along Ocean Drive, 10 miles of golden Atlantic coastline that will have you pulling over to snap postcard-worthy pictures.

Nearest airport: Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD)

When you’re on the East Coast, Maine is a must, for filling your camera roll and feeding your craving for lobster rolls. Just outside Portland, Kennebunkport balances quaint coastal charm and standard seaside fare. You can’t come here without taking an authentic Lobster Tour, where visitors board boats to witness the lobstering industry first-hand.

Shake off your sea legs with a stroll along Dock Square, the village center. Stop in one of the souvenir shops or just admire the magnificent view, inhaling the salty ocean air. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, The Clam Shack is a go-to for lobster rolls. Who knows? You may have even caught it yourself.

Nearest airport: Portland International Jetport (PWM)

Like many New England towns, Portsmouth was first established as (aptly) a port for fishing and shipbuilding. Before that, it was home to the Abenaki people. There are centuries of history here waiting to be discovered at the Strawberry Banke Museum. A living history museum, Strawberry Banke is an historic neighborhood of 32 original buildings. Step back in time with a visit to the tavern or corner store, where role-players add a dash of authenticity.

After, walk through Prescott Park, 10 acres of lush gardens along the waterfront. If you time it right, the park hosts live concerts and movie screenings throughout the summer.

Nearest airport: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)

I’ll say it’s hard to get more New England summer than a weekend (or day) in Nantucket. There’s no shortage of things to do. So, start the day early with a walk to Brant Point Lighthouse – roughly a mile from the center of town, with views that can’t be beaten. If you’re more in the mood for a sail, hire (or rent) a boat and race into the Nantucket Sound. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale.

Speaking of, the Whaling Museum recounts over four centuries of the island’s history. Before you leave, head up to the museum’s rooftop lookout and snap the view so you don’t forget this place’s breathtaking beauty. Not that you could.

Nearest airport: Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK)

A quick 20-minute drive from Burlington, Shelburne trades typical New England ocean views for Lake Champlain. I promise it’s just as picturesque. The Shelburne Museum celebrates the art of America. What was once a place to preserve horse-drawn carriages is now home to world-renowned collections of art and Americana, covering 39 buildings across 45 acres.

Vacationing with your little ones? Tour the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, where kids can build their own best friend. Or, if you need an adult weekend away, the Shelburne Vineyard offers various ciders and wine flights that can be enjoyed with live music and outdoor events.

Nearest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV)