Attractions
36 listings
Chichester and Hooksett, NH
Featured listing: Chuckster's Family Fun Park
Two Great Locations 603-798-3555Everything is at play at Chuckster’s two New Hampshire locations
The only thing small about the mini golf courses at Chuckster’s two New Hampshire locations is the name. The courses themselves are huge, with water in play, some with multiple levels (at the Hooksett, NH Chuckster’s you tee off from a fire tower) – and, of course, each location has the world’s longest mini golf hole.
That's not all tho! Over at Chuckster’s Family Fun Park in Chichester, NH, there's 16 games and attractions to try out. Zip through the trees on the new 265-foot Zipline. Scale our brand new Klime Wallz challenge with three unique climbing experiences. Take your shot at ChucksterBall or Frantic Hoops. Spin around on our new Bumper Boats, Batting Cages, go for the checkered flag on the Go-kart Track, or prepare to get doused playing Shoot-N-Shower or Downpour Derby.
Charlestown, NH
Featured listing: Morningside Flight Park
357 Morningside Lane 603-542-4416Lots of different ways to have fun, in the air and on the ground, at flight park
Fun comes in all shapes and sizes at the Morningside Flight Park. Take some hang gliding or paragliding lessons, or fly like a bird, 2,000 feet above the ground, in a tandem glide with a professional tandem flight instructor. After you fall in love with gliding, come back to take a paragliding course to get your beginner certification. Bring your tent or rent a cabin on-site: You’ll be close to swimming and fishing ponds, picnic areas and fire pits.
Mystic, CT
Argia Mystic Cruises
75 Steamboat Wharf 860-536-0416Explore New England's coast aboard a traditional sailing ship
Return to the romantic Age of Sail aboard the 81-foot schooner Argia. She is a US Coast Guard-inspected vessel and one of the last sailing ships in New England. Departing from Mystic CT, the ship sails in Fishers Island Sound, a calm, protected body of water, from May to mid-October. Bask in the sun on her spacious wooden deck while you sail past the seafaring village of Mystic, the surrounding islands, and historic lighthouses. Delight in quirky sea stories of the area, told by the crew and Captain of Argia. Feel free to bring your own picnic and beverages. Wine and beer are permitted. Enjoy a 2 hour day-sail, or experience the romance of the sea at twilight with a sunset sail.
Middlefield, CT
Lyman Orchards
32 Reeds Gap Road 860-349-1793Named Connecticut's Best Pick-Your-Own Farm for 2024 by Connecticut Magazine
Centrally located within 30 minutes of Hartford, Waterbury, and New Haven, CT, Lyman Orchards is a must-visit destination for all ages with plenty of events and festivals happening year-round. With nearly 100 varieties of pick-your-own fruits from June to October, it's a perfect outing! Explore the seasonal Sunflower or Corn Maze, offering fun and beautiful views. The Apple Barrel Farm Market provides fresh produce, handmade pies, and delicious sandwiches, while the 1741 Pub & Grill offers tasty meals with a view. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy three award-winning courses. Lyman Orchards blends tradition, nature, and recreation, making it an ideal spot for outdoor fun, farm-fresh flavors, and scenic beauty.
Niantic, CT
Black Hawk Sport Fishing
Sailing from Cini Memorial Park 860-448-3662Let this sport-fishing service show you the very best of what’s below, and above, the sea
Starting in early May, Black Hawk Sport Fishing provides the kind of fishing and sightseeing experiences that continue to make it one of Connecticut’s favorite party boats. Clean, comfortable and meticulously maintained, the Black Hawk is one of the fastest vessels of its kind in New England, and one of the most well-equipped to find fish, from blue fish and stripers to sea bass, cod and fluke. Mates will fillet and clean your catch for you to take home or donate to a local soup kitchen or food bank. For those interested more in what’s above sea level, there are a variety of sightseeing cruises, including trips to view sunsets, fireworks, seals and eagles. A galley serves hotdogs, burgers, snacks and beverages. Private charters are available.
Essex, CT
Connecticut River Museum
67 Main Street, Steamboat Dock 860-767-8269Lots of fun things to do and see both inside and outside at this educational river museum
Take a cruise aboard a replica of America’s first yacht, examine the very small interior of the Turtle, the first submarine to be used in combat in 1776, and examine historical artifacts and artwork at the Connecticut River Museum, a cultural center for activities and exhibits about the river and the river valley. Museum exhibits explore everything from the history of the river and its Native American communities to a look at the era of speed racing on the river, from 1900 to 1940. You can take an afternoon or evening cruise on the Onrust, a re-creation of a 1614 sailing vessel built in Manhattan, making it the country’s first yacht, or spy an osprey or eagle from the deck of the eco-tour boat RiverQuest.
Oakdale, CT
The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village
1650 Hartford-New London Tpke. (Rt. 85) 860-443-4367Water park, playground, mini-golf course and dino trail all rolled into one exciting attraction
A Splash Pad, a challenging maze, a fun state-of-the-art playground, mini golf, a climbing tower — and dinosaurs! The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village really does have something for everyone. When you’re done shooting water cannons and climbing across balance-beam bridges and sinking that perfect putt, there are still dinosaurs to see — over 60 of them, life-sized, positioned along an easy-to-walk nature trail. Other activities include digging for gems at Jackpot Mine, panning for fools gold nuggets at Thunder Creek and heading over to Lapilli Landing for the equestrian-themed pedal-car track and Lucky Leroy train ride. Grab a burger or a hot dog at Monty’s Munchies, or bring your own picnic! And don’t go home without a treasure from the many shops offering fossils, crystals, beads, toys and trinkets.
Camden, ME
Maine Windjammer Association
Sailing from Ports in Rockland andWindjammer fleet offers breathtaking sights, on-deck fun, fabulous food, comfy cabins
Experience the dramatic coastline and spruce-clad islands of Maine aboard a historic Windjammer. The nine vessels of the Maine Windjammer Association are the ideal way to explore the granite islands of Penobscot Bay, the wildlife of this part of the Atlantic – and true Downeast hospitality and cooking! Sail for a few days or a week; take a curated cruise (photography, crafts, lighthouses, painting) or one with absolutely no set-in-stone itinerary. Help the crew with the sails, learn how to cook on a wood stove, or just relax on the deck. Wake to fresh coffee and blueberry pancakes and fall asleep to sea chanteys and starlight. Comfortable cabins, delicious food, great conversations and even an on-shore island lobster bake: It’s an unforgettable adventure.
Sturbridge, MA
Old Sturbridge Village
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 508-347-3362Travel into the 19th century at this re-created New England village, with a variety of hands-on activities
Have you ever wanted to time travel into the past? Old Sturbridge Village can make that a reality when you visit the historical homes, shops, farms and other buildings on its 200-plus acres in Sturbridge, MA. You’ll feel you are in a typical New England town of the 1830s when you see pottery, barrels and cabinets being made on-site, walk through the old schoolhouse (with graffiti from students on its original desks), ride in a horse-drawn wagon or help out at the print shop or sawmill. Costumed historians are happy to answer questions about everything from cooking on the hearth to minding pigs and other heritage-breed animals. There are nature trails, gorgeous gardens, live performances, special exhibitions and activities (check the website) and a welcoming tavern and cafe.
Plymouth, MA
See Plymouth
4 North Street 508-747-0100In walkable Plymouth, you can enjoy several activities, fun attractions, every day
Check out some more great things to do while visiting Plymouth County, MA!
History tops the list of attractions in Plymouth, of course! There’s the magnificent Mayflower II, Plymouth Rock, the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and the replica English village and Wampanoag Homesite at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. But that’s just the beginning: There’s also whale-watching, pirate and harbor cruises, ghost tours, great beaches, parks with extensive hiking and biking trails, sea kayaking and lots of special events, from arts festivals to Thanksgiving and Fourth of July celebrations. Lodging is plentiful (many hotels have pools; one has a water park), and there is every kind of dining you can imagine. In the winter, there’s ice skating, cross-country skiing in nearby parks. So many fun activities are within walking distance of each other, you can enjoy several in a single day.
Worcester, MA
Worcester Art Museum
55 Salisbury Street 508-799-4406Visitors to magnificent art museum transcend time through its collections, interactive features
Connect with global stories in the heart of Commonwealth. Discover ancient mosaics, medieval arms and armor, contemporary paintings, and sculptures at the Worcester Art museum. Explore galleries featuring Asian, European, and American art, as well special exhibitions featuring local New England artists. Compare ancient artifacts and early American antiques, master works and folk art, and more in the Museum’s encyclopedic collection.
Looking to dive deeper? Develop your own skills and expand your creativity in studio art classes. Find creative and hands-on activities for all ages across the Museum’s many galleries. And relax in the courtyard or enjoy lunch at the café surrounded by art.
Free admission for Members, children 17 and under, and students at participating College Partner schools.
Falmouth, MA
Island Queen
75 Falmouth Heights Road 508-548-4800For a perfect seaside vacation, start with a scenic ferry ride from Cape to Vineyard
Your seaside vacation should start with the sea! Book a trip aboard the Island Queen, the passenger ferry from Falmouth to Oak Bluffs, MA on the fabled island of Martha’s Vineyard, and enjoy the 35-minute trip across sparkling Vineyard Sound from one of the Cape’s most charming resort towns to one of the Vineyard’s most scenic. There’s a picture-window observation deck and comfortable rowed seating on the open decks, a snack bar and restrooms. Park 200 yards from the dock in Falmouth; car and bike rentals and cabs are a short walk from the Oak Bluffs dock. Attractions in Falmouth include the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, beautiful beaches and a scenic bikeway. In Oak Bluffs, there’s the famous Flying Horses carousel and the colorful Gingerbread Cottages in the Campground.
Plymouth, MA
Plimoth Patuxet Museums
137 Warren Avenue 508-746-1622Experience the Past at the Best Open-Air Museum in New England’s Oldest Town!
Explore the Historic Patuxet Homesite and discover the history and heritage of the Indigenous People who have lived here since time immemorial. Step inside a wetu, see the making of a mishoon, and visit the cooking arbor where traditional foods are prepared over the fire. In the 17th-Century English Village, watch Plymouth Colony come to life as you traverse the early Pilgrim settlement and interact with historical performers portraying real residents. Downtown, climb aboard national treasure, Mayflower II, and hear stories about the 1620 transatlantic journey of the Pilgrims. Visit the Plimoth Grist Mill to discover the importance of corn in the 17th century and today. Named the Best Open-Air Museum in the USA in 2024, 2025, and 2026 by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Jefferson, NH
Santa's Village
528 Presidential Highway 603-586-4445Come see why visitors return year after year to this fun White Mountains attraction
The name alone tells you why visitors come back every year to Santa’s Village in the White Mountains. There are rides galore, from Ferris wheels and carousels to roller coasters, monorails and trains, bumper cars and flumes, all with merry holiday themes. You can have your picture taken with Santa, feed his reindeer in the barn, go on a scavenger hunt and get your own special (and complimentary) ring made at the blacksmith’s shop. Over in the water park (and, yes, admission covers both the village and water park), there are three-story slides, splash pads and interactive water attractions. Families can rent cabanas and family suites for privacy in the middle of all the fun! Eating options range from pizza and made-to-order sandwiches to fresh fruit and veggie trays.
Lincoln, NH
Granite State Railway
64 Railroad Street 603-745-2135Colorful way to see the scenery and sights along a river aboard vintage railroad cars
Back when the tracks now followed by the Granite State Railway were built in 1882-1883, it was a great way for summer visitors to reach their grand hotels in the White Mountains. Today, it’s still a great way for visitors to appreciate the beauty of the White Mountain region, as they travel 15 miles round trip, leaving from the station in Lincoln, NH. In the spring and summer, as the train travels along the meandering Pemigewasset River, passengers on the vintage cars see kayakers, swimmers and fishermen enjoying the river, as well as the flora and fauna of the woods. In the autumn, the area’s foliage explodes in color, and, in winter, it’s all aboard the popular Santa Express for a meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Salem, NH
America's Stonehenge
105 Haverhill Road 603-893-8300Explore the mysteries of New Hampshire's ancient past
The forests near Salem, NH are wondrous, but there's more to see here than just the trees. At America's Stonehenge off Rte. 111, you could be following in the steps of an ancient tribe of mystery men. In the woods you'll find a maze of rocks, stone chambers, and megaliths they may have left behind. Who were they? Native Americans? Or Old World voyagers who crossed the Atlantic well ahead of Columbus, people with knowledge of astronomy and stone construction? The questions have stymied scholars for generations. Our museum includes an orientation film, and our gift shop includes books with more information. In winter months our one-hundred-plus acres are also great for snowshoeing. And sharing the property is a small herd of gentle alpacas who love greeting visitors.
Meredith, NH
Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad
154 Main Street 603-279-5253Treat yourself to a scenic train ride along Lake Winnipesaukee this spring, summer or fall
With daily excursions in the summer and weekend trips during the spring and fall, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers lots of opportunities for passengers to experience old-fashioned train travel and spectacular views of New Hampshire’s largest lake. Take the two-hour round trip from Meredith, NH or the one-hour trip from the boardwalk at Weirs Beach, NH and enjoy traveling along the shore. Bring your own picnic lunch! In the autumn, the train offers four-hour Fall Foliage Specials, with stops for a hearty brunch and for a guided tour of the restored station in Ashland, NH. And don’t forget the Turkey Dinner Train, with a complete turkey dinner on board catered by Hart’s Turkey Farm. The railroad also features two-hour private caboose rentals for up to 16 guests, perfect for parties!
North Woodstock, NH
White Mountains Attractions
200 Kancamagus Highway 603-745-8720Endless variety of ways to explore and enjoy the glorious White Mountains
There are so many ways to explore and enjoy the breathtaking White Mountains! You can zoom down a mountain on an alpine slide or coaster, or zoom up on a gondola. You can travel to the summit of Mount Washington on a cog railway, take a classic train ride through the valley or along a river. Go on a moose safari or guided ATV tour, zip-line through the trees, go mountain-biking or hiking. The kids might want to visit Story Land, Clark’s Bears, Santa’s Village or Whale’s Tale Water Park. You might want to take a lake cruise, fishing excursion, go golfing, tour a brewery or winery – or shop ’til you drop! All that and more is part of the White Mountains experience. To find out more, follow our link above or call us today at 1-800-346-3687.
Bretton Woods, NH
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Off Route 302 603-278-5404Cog railroad journey brings visitors up Mt. Washington to ‘second greatest show on Earth’
P.T. Barnum, a man who knew a great attraction when he saw one, called the view from the Mt. Washington, NH summit “the second greatest show on Earth.” The Cog Railways has been delivering passengers to that show for 152 years, chugging up the mountain and thrilling people with views of forests, ravines – even the occasional moose or bear. The journey begins at the base station and Cog Railway Museum, where you can learn how the engineering feat was accomplished, and culminates at the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast. At the visitor center, you can explore an interactive weather exhibit, the rooftop observation deck and the summit post office. Next door is the historic Tip Top House, an original summit hotel dating back to 1853. Trains climb the mountain from late April through November. Enjoy the trip!
North Woodstock, NH
Ice Castles
24 Clark Farm RoadA kingdom of ice gives visitors to this castle the royal treatment
Imagine castles made of ice! Inside fountains have frozen over, tunnels and caves are ready for exploring, icy thrones await royalty and slides stand ready for kids and adults to race down. That’s what it’s like at Ice Castles, where everything is made of ice and snow, including the paths and walls. At night, the castles are even more amazing, as color-changing LED lights frozen inside the ice illuminate with all the shades of the rainbow while whimsical music plays. Perfect for families, romantic dates – and unbelievable photos – the castle sprawls more than an acre. Grab a hot cocoa or an apple cider from the on-site concession, then take a sleigh ride around the castles and through an enchanted forest.
North Woodstock, NH
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
1712 Lost River Road -- Route 112W 603-745-8031Explore a river that plays hide and seek
Some 300 million years ago glaciers moving across New Hampshire formed the wilderness wonderland known as Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves. Today you can explore this unusual site during your White Mountains vacation. A three-quarter-mile boardwalk leads you into the gorge, where you'll find spectacular waterfalls, granite cliffs, a river that plays hide and seek, and the mysterious boulder caves. Step off the boardwalk and explore Thor's Workshop, the Devil's Kitchen, the Lemon Squeezer, Shadow Cave, the Dungeon, and the Judgment Hall of Pluto. You'll also find over 300 varieties of flowers, ferns, and shrubs. Pan for gold and fossils in the mining sluice. Come at night for an adults-only lantern tour. Open early May to mid-October. Sturdy footwear recommended.
Providence, RI
Go Providence
1 Sabin Street 401-751-1177Providence - The Creative Capital
Providence, RI is known for its vibrant culinary, and arts and culture scenes. The RISD Museum is home to nearly 100,000 works of art ranging from the ancient to the avant-garde. Theater lovers will want to see a show at the beautifully gilded Providence Performing Arts Center or at the Tony Award-winning Trinity Rep. One of the city's most popular events, WaterFire, is a multisensory art installation highlighted by a series of bonfires installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence. You can even glide along the rivers in an authentic Venetian gondola. Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village has delighted generations of visitors, and The BankNewport City Center boasts ice skating in the heart of downtown. For more things to do in Providence, RI, visit GoProvidence.com.
Middletown, RI
Discover Newport RI
35 Valley Road 401-847-1600Newport County is steeped in history and beauty. The City on the Sea, in addition to the famous mansions, has the distinction of having more authentic colonial era structures than any other American city. The region, which also includes Jamestown, Portsmouth and Middletown, features beaches, vineyards, scores of great and interesting shops, an array of restaurants, luxury hotels and quaint inns and B&Bs. Beautiful parks and dramatic vistas are found along Ocean Drive. Also not to be missed are the Tennis Hall of Fame, Fort Adams, and Newport’s world famous folk, jazz, and classical music festivals. The Newport County Chamber of Commerce can provide you complete information and help in planning your visit.
Providence/Newport, RI
Rhode Island Red Food Tours
Tours offered in Providence & Newport 401-684-1110Rhode Island Red Food Tours is one of the state’s most flavorful attractions. We offer visitors a chance to taste Rhode Island’s food culture while exploring its history and neighborhoods.
Our guided walking tours highlight the culinary icons that define the Ocean State, from fresh seafood and local farms to unique drinks and regional specialties. Along the way, guests discover fascinating architecture, hidden alleys, and cultural landmarks. Whether exploring Providence’s creative capital vibe or Newport’s coastal charm, Rhode Island Red Food Tours combines sightseeing and eating into one unforgettable attraction that captures the heart of Rhode Island. Not to be missed!
Narragansett, RI
Block Island Ferry
304 Great Island Road 401-783-7996Sail away to an island adventure!
Sail away to an island adventure aboard the Block Island Ferry. Ferries leave from Newport or Narragansett, RI, and sail to Old Harbor on Block Island. Whether you’re going for the day or an extended vacation, you’ll find a full slate of fun things to do, from parasailing, kayaking, surfing, and paddle boarding to visiting an exotic-animal farm, hiking nature trails, going horseback riding and biking. Explore lighthouses, or just relax on a beautiful beach at sunset after a classic New England dinner. Ferries have full bars and beverage and food concessions, and leashed pets are allowed on open decks. Passengers may bring bikes and surfboards with a reservation, and discounts are available for seniors and for children.
Hartford, CT
Mark Twain House & Museum
351 Farmington Avenue 860-247-0998Explore the Iconic Gilded Age Home of Mark Twain
One of Hartford’s signature attractions, the Mark Twain House & Museum invites visitors into the 25-room Victorian home where Mark Twain lived during the Gilded Age and wrote many of his best-known books, including Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Tours showcase the home’s striking architecture and richly decorated interiors, plus exhibits in the museum center that explore Twain’s life, legacy, and the era that inspired “The Gilded Age.” Make it a highlight of your Connecticut itinerary.
Arlington, MA
Arlington Historical Society
7 Jason Street, 781-648-4300Step Into Revolutionary History at One of Massachusetts’ Most Fascinating Museums
The Arlington Historical Society: Jason Russell House & Museum, established in 1897, is one of Arlington's most compelling stops along any Massachusetts itinerary. Rooted in the events of April 19, 1775 — when the Battle of Lexington, Concord & Menotomy reached its most intense point right here — the site offers guided tours, rotating exhibitions, and a yearly lecture series that keeps local history in active conversation. Next door, the Smith Museum holds an impressive collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and Arlington memorabilia that rounds out the experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime history enthusiast, there's always something new to discover.
Gloucester, MA
Hammond Castle Museum
80 Hesperus Avenue 978-283-2080A Castle, A Legacy, An Experience Unlike Any Other
Hammond Castle Museum offers an unforgettable coastal experience along Gloucester’s rocky Atlantic shoreline. Built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., the medieval-style castle blends history, architecture, innovation, and oceanfront scenery into a one-of-a-kind STEAM-inspired museum destination. Recognized among the top 10% of attractions worldwide through TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards and honored as a Best of North Shore destination, the museum features guided and self-guided tours, seasonal events, live music, family programming, and exhibits connecting invention and history. Children ages four and under receive free admission with reserved tickets. Open daily through January 3rd. Advance reservations strongly encouraged.
For the second year in a row, Hammond Castle Museum has won Northshore Magazine’s Readers' Choice Awards for Best Museum, Best Tourist Attraction, and Most Instagrammable!
Bristol, RI
Audubon Society of Rhode Island - Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium
1401 Hope Street, 401-949-5454Discover WILD THINGS at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium!
Immerse yourself in nature! Visitors of all ages can buzz through the blooming pollinator garden, walk the trails to Narragansett Bay, and search for birds, frogs, and turtles along the boardwalk. Then head indoors and marvel at seahorses, fish, sharks and other cool marine life in the aquarium.
Birding walks, family nature programs, evening hikes, outdoor explorations and workshops are offered year-round. Check the calendar for close-up animal encounters with turtles, snakes, owls and hawks!
Outside with a Guide: Small-group Private Tours Offered in Summer
Plan a nature exploration with your own Audubon naturalist. Options for adult-only or groups with children ages 5+. Maximum 10 people.
Charlemont, MA
Crab Apple Whitewater (MA)
2056 Mohawk Trail 800-553-7238Family-Owned Whitewater Rafting on Massachusetts’ Scenic Rivers
Family-owned since 1983, Crab Apple Whitewater brings three generations of expertise to the banks of the Deerfield and Millers Rivers. Choose from full-day or half-day trips on dam-controlled rapids ranging from gentle Class I–III to thrilling Class III–IV whitewater. Kids as young as 5 can join in on Funyak inflatable kayaks, complete with giant squirt guns. Knowledgeable guides share stories of local history, wildlife, and hydrology along the way. Back at base camp along the historic Mohawk Trail, enjoy changing rooms, a snack bar, paddle board rentals, and a riverside patio.
The Forks, ME
Crab Apple Whitewater (ME)
3 Lake Moxie Road 800-553-7238Conquer Maine’s Most Legendary Rapids on the Kennebec & Dead Rivers
For the ultimate New England whitewater experience, head to Crab Apple Whitewater's Maine base camp on the Kennebec River. Choose the legendary Kennebec — with Class III–IV rapids including the famous "Magic Falls" — or the adrenaline-pumping Dead River, with continuous Class IV–V whitewater. Expert guides lead every trip, and breakfast is included with all rafting and lodging packages. Base camp amenities include a heated outdoor pool, pub and restaurant, paintball fields, and lodging from bunk rooms to whirlpool suites. Extend your stay and hike to Moxie Falls, one of Maine's most spectacular waterfalls.
West Dover, VT
Crab Apple Whitewater (VT)
289 Handle Road 800-553-7238Family-Friendly Whitewater Adventure in the Heart of Vermont
Experience the natural beauty of Vermont from the heart of the West River with Crab Apple Whitewater. Offered on select days each year, these 8-mile guided trips feature a dynamic mix of Class II–IV rapids — exciting for first-timers and seasoned rafters alike. With a minimum age of 11, it's a great outing for families. After your trip, unwind at one of Crab Apple's hand-picked nearby hotels or motels and relive the adventure on video.
New London, CT
Block Island Express
2 Ferry StreetThe fun starts before you even arrive
Your Block Island adventure starts the moment you board the Block Island Express. The high-speed ferry departs from New London, CT or Orient Point, NY, whisking you to beautiful Block Island, RI in about 90 minutes. Settle into comfortable indoor seating or head to the open decks for panoramic views of sailboats, lighthouses and the Long Island Sound. The Cross Sound Deli serves sandwiches, snacks, craft beers and specialty cocktails for the ride. On the island, explore famous beaches, bike scenic trails, go kayaking or enjoy al fresco dining and nightlife. Thursdays, catch the half-price Dinner Run from New London.
New London, CT
Cross Sound Lighthouse Cruises
2 Ferry Street 860-444-4620See New England's Most Storied Lighthouses by Catamaran
Few experiences along the New England coast are as memorable as a Cross Sound lighthouse cruise. Choose from three two-hour tours departing New London, CT or Orient Point, NY, each passing a remarkable collection of historic lighthouses — including Race Rock Light (said to be haunted), Watch Hill Light (authorized by President Jefferson) and New London Harbor Light, one of the original 12 colonial lighthouses in the country. Knowledgeable guides share the history and legends behind each one. Ride in comfort aboard a catamaran with air-conditioned lounges, sun-soaked decks and full snack and bar service.
Darien, CT
The Mather Homestead
19 Stephen Mather Road 203-202-7602The Mather Homestead, Darien’s only National Historic Landmark, is a beautifully preserved 1778 home with a rich American story spanning more than two centuries. Built during the Revolutionary War, the home was designed to keep the Mather family safe from Tory raids. Deacon Joseph Mather, son of the influential patriot preacher Reverend Moses Mather, lived here with his wife and their eleven children. In 1906, Stephen Tyng Mather, borax entrepreneur and first director of the National Park Service, occupied the home as his summer residence and added the beautiful gardens that continue to grace the property. Today, guided tours (Monday through Friday) tell the Mather family story and bring American history to life, from the Revolutionary era through the early 2000s, when the home was entrusted to The Mather Homestead Foundation.
Gorham, NH
Mount Washington Auto Road
Route 16 - Pinkham Notch 603-466-3988Adventure in every season along America's original man-made attraction
No visit to the White Mountains is complete without a drive on the legendary Mt. Washington Auto Road. For over 160 years, families have been traveling up America's original man-made attraction. The Mt. Washington Auto Road climbs 7.6 miles through four distinct ecological zones to the region's highest summit, where views stretch across the Presidential Range and beyond. Every season offers a new adventure: drive yourself and earn the iconic "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington" bumper sticker, join a guided tour, or ride the narrated SnowCoach to the sub-arctic tree line in winter. Make a day of it: book a guided kayak trip or bike rental at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, then dine at the award-winning bar and restaurant at the Glen House Hotel.