It’s prime time to start making plans and booking summer trips. If you’re in need of a little inspiration, allow me to suggest somewhere that will forever be one of your favorite spots once you visit: New England.
New England was a place I always knew I wanted to visit, but never thought I’d actually get to. Why? I was too busy obsessing over going to all the usual places — Colorado, Lake Tahoe, maybe a cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway. New England was a place I didn’t know or understand how truly great it was until I finally went there, whereas the other aforementioned destinations are plastered all over my Pinterest homepage as soon as I search summer trips.
So, if you’re looking for the ultimate in summer vacations, here a few reasons why New England should make the short list.
Source: Sophie Shoelover
Source: Sophie Shoelover
There’s no shortage of outdoor activities.
If you’re wanting more of a nature-focused trip, New England is absolutely perfect. From hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and fishing along the rocky coastline of Maine or Massachusetts to kayaking in Vermont’s Lake Champlain, there’s no shortage of fun in the outdoors. And although summertime is pretty immaculate, if you visit in the fall, you’ll catch some of the most jaw-dropping foliage the U.S. has to offer.
Source: The Basics
The seacoast can’t be beat.
There are few things in life that make my heart as happy as the New England seacoast. The views are some of the prettiest I’ve ever seen, and the atmosphere just can’t be beat. Spend your days laying on the sandy shores of Hampton Beach in New Hampshire or head further north to Maine and take in all the lighthouses scattered along the coastline (the Portland Head Light is a classic that can’t be skipped).
Source: @merhanson
Source: The Basics
Picturesque towns that will make you want to pack up all your belongings and move.
If you’ve ever seen the movie “The Proposal” with Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock, then you know how freaking adorable Ryan’s character’s hometown of Sitka, Alaska is. Well, I’m here to tell you that “Sitka” is actually a picturesque little town in Massachusetts called Rockport. And yes, it’s just as idyllic in real life as it is in the movie. The best part? There are SO many more cute towns to see throughout New England like Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Kennebunkport, Maine; and Woodstock, Vermont, to name a few.
READ: 10 Uniquely New England Airbnbs to Book This Fall
Source: @nomnom_boston
The insanely delicious (and budget-friendly!) seafood.
I’ve never considered myself to be someone who loves seafood; it’s just never really been my jam. But in New England, you absolutely have to give it a try. I would have never thought I’d say my favorite food is a lobster roll, but on the New England seacoast, it’s my number one go-to. The best part is you can find amazing rolls, fresh fish, and all the fixings at any hole in the wall place or roadside stand. The best seafood is definitely not reserved for the expensive, snazzy places, so you can give it a try without spending an arm and a leg.
READ: The 10 Most Instagrammable Spots in Boston
Source: @mackenziehoran
The historical sightseeing is super charming (and informative).
Another fun thing about New England is that it’s where our country started, so visiting means you’ll get to see some of the oldest landmarks and buildings in the United States! You might even feel like you’re in Europe for a minute, because some towns are very reminiscent of ones you might see in England. If history is your thing, take it all in and spend some time in Boston, where you can visit Paul Revere’s house and walk the Freedom Trail.
READ: 10 Fun Things You Must Do in Boston
Source: @joethommas
New England’s not just small-town charm — it’s also an urban hotspot.
And speaking of Boston… cities like Boston and Portland (Maine) are what initially attract a lot of people to come to New England, and it’s very easy to see why. Both boast very picturesque (there’s that word again), narrow, and cobbled streets that take you back in time. And of course they’re both on the water, so there’s no shortage of sea views and all the food that comes with them. If you’re looking to head inland, Burlington, VT is also a neat place to take in sights and try local food and drinks.
READ: 5 Weekend Road Trips in New England
Have you been to New England? Share your travel tips in the comments below!
The post 6 Reasons to Pack Your Bags and Head to New England This Summer appeared first on The Everygirl.