There are few places in the United States that are as charming as New England. New England is a top area to visit on the East Coast because it’s stunning all year round. Spring is filled with pretty flowers while winters are cozy with the glistening snow. Fall offers beautiful foliage and summer is packed with beach days and fresh seafood. As such, if you’re thinking about going on a trip with your special someone, you won’t be disappointed by these perfect romantic getaways in New England.
Whether you’re exploring a small coastal town or you’re wandering around a bigger city, these romantic getaways in New England are guaranteed to get the sparks flying and give you a lovely escape.
With the help of a few travel bloggers who love the area, we’ve handpicked 11 of the best romantic getaways in New England. All you need to do is pack your bags, surprise your sweetie, and relax!
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Romantic Getaways in New England Map
11 of the Best Romantic Getaways in New England
Six states in the upper northeast of the United States make up New England — Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Each state offers a different experience, but there’s something in store in each one of these states for every couple.
Here are 12 of the best romantic getaways in New England!
1. Waterville Valley, New Hampshire
By Alexa of 52 Perfect Days
Surrounded by 4000-foot mountain peaks off of a winding and picturesque road, Waterville Valley is a breathtaking mountain setting offering the ultimate romantic vacation.
Waterville Valley, New Hampshire is a four-season town set in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. In addition to winter snow sports like skiing and snowboarding, Waterville Valley has tennis, golf, biking, a summer theater, an indoor ice rink, and boating.
Dining options range from traditional bars to elegant eateries. Also, there are 125 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails to explore, a pond for swimming. One particularly nice hike is to Sabbaday Falls. Pack a picnic lunch and head to the falls for a lovely, relaxing afternoon.
It’s a great picturesque small town where you can simply enjoy a quiet weekend getaway in a romantic cottage, or re-connect in the beautiful outdoors.
Golden Eagle Lodge is a great choice for accommodation for your romantic getaway. All rooms are suites and it’s a perfect choice to stay near the slopes.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
By Disha of Disha Discovers
Some couples prefer quieter romantic getaways whereas some couples like to get lost in vivacious cities. If you and your partner are city people, Boston might be one of the best romantic getaways in New England for you!
Boston is an intriguing city that’s filled with history and action and it’s one of the most iconic cities in New England. A lot of people have the misconception that Boston is a gigantic museum. But, there are so many other fun things for you to do with your significant other.
Grab lunch from one of the many eateries and head to Boston Common to have a picnic lunch. This is actually America’s oldest park and a very popular stop on the Freedom Trail.
You can also escape the city with your partner and visit Blue Hills Reservation. You can hike, bike, and just wander around. If you’re both feeling adventurous, you can tackle the hike to the top of Great Blue Hill. You’ll be rewarded with epic views of downtown Boston.
Some more romantic things to do include the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Skywalk Observatory, Boston Symphony Hall, and Wang Theater.
Lastly, end your day by going on a self-guided food tour. Boston is a foodie’s heaven and there are so many amazing restaurants of various cuisines scattered throughout the city.
RELATED: New England Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Days Exploring the Northeastern US
3. Stowe, Vermont
By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler
The charming town of Stowe, Vermont is one of the most perfect romantic getaways in New England. Enjoy some quality time with one another by taking in the scenic beauty of this town. It’s tucked in the Green Mountains so you’ll be effortlessly surrounded by the gorgeous scenery.
Rent bikes and ride along the Stowe Recreation Path where you will glide past scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Stop along the way for a private dip in the rocky river where the trail crisscrosses.
For a pleasant walk together, hike a short distance to the emerald green, Bingham Falls. Pack a picnic lunch and hang out nearby this gorgeous waterfall.
After all the fun outdoor adventures of Stowe, stroll hand in hand through the picturesque town. Stop to get ice cream at one of the cute ice cream shops or enjoy one of the fabulous restaurants in the area.
Finish a romantic day with a visit to the Biergarten at the historic Trapp Family Lodge. Watch the sunset over Mt. Mansfield as you enjoy a flight of German-inspired craft beer.
4. Kennebunkport, Maine
By Tina of The Tina Lifestyle
If you’re looking for the best romantic getaways in New England, Kennebunkport in Maine is the place to visit.
Couples looking for a romantic weekend away will have no shortage of choices for places to stay in Kennebunkport from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxuriously modern resorts and inns.
Whether you and your partner need that perfect ocean view or like to be near town, there is sure to be an ideal spot listed here that provides all the amenities needed to strike the ideal romantic atmosphere.
Do you and your partner like spending time shopping and want to be near the town center? Or are you both more interested in staying in, having a spa day, and enjoying the beachfront views? If you’re a couple looking to spend quality time together and explore a cozy, intimate town, Kennebunkport has got you completely covered.
From strolling along Walker’s Point, Ocean Avenue, or Pearson’s Way, to shopping at Dock Square or checking out the Maine Art Gallery, there are so many fun things to do in Kennebunkport Maine that will keep you entertained!
RELATED: 20 BEST Things to Do in Kennebunkport Maine (Mega Guide!)
5. Newport, Rhode Island
By Jenessa of Destination Daydreamer
Newport, Rhode Island is a perfect romantic getaway in New England. The gorgeous rocky coastline, elegant historic mansions, and breathtaking lighthouses mix together in the perfect recipe for many romantic moments.
The top thing you must do as a couple in Newport is to explore (hand-in-hand) the breathtaking Newport Cliff Walk. In chilly weather, take a stop along the way at The Chanler’s Hot Chocolate Bar for gourmet hot chocolate with an ocean view.
Also, make sure to tour the gorgeous Newport mansions with your sweetheart. The grandest of the mansions, the Breakers, was built by the wealthy Vanderbilt family in the 1800s and is full of luxurious touches and interesting stories to hear.
To cap off your romantic getaway, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a beautiful, scenic drive to visit one of the nine, breathtaking lighthouses in the area, such as Beavertail Lighthouse.
6. Rockport, Massachusetts
By Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk?
Located right at the tip of dreamy Cape Ann, Massachusetts, Rockport is one of the top romantic getaways in New England.
Home to some of the most picturesque streets and views in the region, you’ll love exploring the Bearskin Neck area — a walking street lined with cute boutiques, ice cream shops, and art galleries.
One of the country’s oldest art colonies is actually located in Rockport, as well as the buoy-lined Motif #1 which is a red shack on the waterfront that is said to be the most-painted landmark in the United States!
Lovers of seafood will enjoy shucking their own lobsters at Roy Moore’s lobster shack, or if you’re in the mood for something a bit fancier, check out the award-winning New American fare at My Place By the Sea.
All around town, gorgeous views of the sea surround you, and you can rent kayaks or sailboats by the hour at a variety of local places, or sit together at one of many viewpoints on the rocky shore.
7. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
By Nicole of The Abroad Blog
Known as “America’s Greatest Small Town” by National Geographic Travel, a visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire should be on everyone’s New England bucket list.
Portsmouth is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and Boston, making it an ideal spot for a romantic weekend trip.
It’s also the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast, making it a charming, enjoyable getaway for couples. Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.
When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square. Here you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants for dates, including Riverhouse on the water, along with dozens of fun bars that have bands performing live music.
Lastly, Portsmouth has some great coffee shops, including Cup of Joe. Grab a cup of something cozy and go for a romantic walk through the historical downtown during your time in Portsmouth.
8. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
By Stephanie of Wandering Why Traveler
Martha’s Vineyard is a favorite getaway for traveling twosomes and celebrity couples alike. Its location off the mainland of Massachusetts makes it feel exclusive away from the bustle of the busy East Coast cities nearby.
Walk hand in hand with your partner past pastel-colored homes affectionately dubbed, “gingerbread houses” for their playful, storybook, style. Travelers can use their own two feet or rent motorized quads to explore the quaint mom and pop shops which sell everything from must-have East Coast fashion garments to fresh herbs and spices.
After exploring the town, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Being surrounded by water, shellfish is an exquisite way to satiate hunger. Luckily, you can throw a stone and hit any number of seafood eateries that serve crab and lobster rolls that are overflowing from warm, buttery, bread. Or, if there’s a chill in the air, be sure to grab some creamy, filling, chowder at the Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company.
If you’re searching for a romantic spot that will leave you awe-inspired, do check out Aquinnah — a beach with cliffs that are sure to leave you breathless. Round out each evening with strong drinks and live music at the historic Ritz Cafe — a dive bar that has been around since the 1940s.
9. Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor, Maine
By James of Parks Collecting
Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor are among the best places to visit in Maine with so much to see and do!
This is the heart of Maine’s lobster industry and you can get cheap and fresh lobster – either for a romantic dinner in the evening or a fun lunch outdoors at a waterside lobster shack.
Take a ferry out to the Cranberry Islands where you can wander around New England fishing villages and stroll along pebbly beaches, which you will often have to yourselves.
Take a sunset sailing trip around the islands or, if you are feeling more active, rent a tandem kayak and paddle along the shore together.
Acadia National Park has one of the most scenic drives in the country, and you can easily spend a day stopping off and exploring different areas, including the picturesque Bass Harbor Lighthouse.
Drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain to see the first sunrise in the country or for a beautiful sunset. This is also a great place for a romantic picnic.
There are so many romantic and incredible things to do in Bar Harbor Maine and the surrounding areas that you’ll want to stay forever!
RELATED: America’s 13 Prettiest National Parks on the East Coast
10. North Conway, New Hampshire
By Lina of Bucket List Places
When looking for romantic getaways in New England, North Conway village in New Hampshire is the ultimate getaway.
From beautiful fall foliage to carving on the slopes in the winter and hiking any time of year, this is a must-visit destination for couples.
Stay at the stunning Cathedral Lodge in North Conway, fit with a hot tub, game room, and fire pit perfect for relaxing in the evenings after a day filled with activities. The property sits a mear 3-minute drive from the world-famous Cathedral Lodge where rock climbers travel from all over the world to climb this incredible peak. For those that don’t rock climb, you can drive to the top and admire the incredible views of the valley year-round.
Located in Mount Washington Valley, there are countless hiking trails throughout the area. Prefer something more adrenal-packed? Try ATVing in the spring/summer/fall or snowmobiling in the winter to access the breathtaking backcountry difficult to explore on foot.
If you are a skiing couple, there are several mountains in the area the enjoy by day and then soak in the relaxing hot tub to wind down at night.
With so much to do, North Conway is the ultimate romantic bucket list destination for couples.
11. Essex, Connecticut
By Alicia of Travel With the Crew
Essex, Connecticut is one of the most romantic getaways in New England. It is built on the Connecticut River and close to Long Island Sound, which makes it a perfect getaway from Boston or New York City.
Essex was a wealthy ship-building town in the 19th century. Today, it is a quiet and beautiful town with remains of the beauty of the 1800s.
There are several romantic things to do in Essex including taking a stroll along Main Street. It’s lined with 19th-century homes that are all white wood and the street is great for window shopping and browsing.
You can also stop at the gazebo on Main Street and enjoy the view of Main Street Park. Eat lunch or dinner at the Griswold Inn — the oldest, continuously operating inn in the US. The food is fabulous and the dining areas are charming.
For a more romantic experience, stay at the Griswold Inn in one of their romantic suites and enjoy some quiet and calm in the charming New England town.
Lastly, take a train ride on the Essex Steam Train, which is especially beautiful in the fall. And, take a drive up and down the Connecticut River Valley and stop at all the beautiful lookout spots.
Essex is the perfect weekend getaway, and the old-world charm and beauty make it a romantic place for any couple.
Which one of these romantic getaways in New England are you most excited to go on? Let me know in the comments below!
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Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.