Quaint historic towns, dreamy seaside villages, sublime harbor views – there’s no denying New England’s romantic draw. But with so many irresistible spots, which one do you choose? Before the summertime crowds flock the coast, hit the highway and enjoy a smorgasbord of Northeastern delights. From Boston to Kennebunkport, Newport to Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod, here’s the insider’s guide to the ultimate romantic New England road trip.
Day One and Two: Boston
Play: Kick off your trip exploring Boston’s brimming-with-charm historic neighborhoods. Head to Beacon Hill’s brick-paved streets lit with gas lamps or ogle the Victorian brownstones along Commonwealth Avenue. Then cuddle up on a quiet bench at the Public Gardens. As one of the most picturesque city parks ever, it’s a must visit.
Eat: For an afternoon respite, pull up a window stool at Panificio Bistro and Bakery and share a fresh-from-the-oven cinnamon muffin and cappuccino while you people-watch the locals go by. For dinner, head to Charlestown’s cozy and historic Warren Tavern, just a ferry jaunt away.
Stay: With a primo setting on Rowes Wharf, the luxe 230-roomBoston Harbor Hotel offers sweeping harbor and skyline vistas. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from arm-in-arm walks along the waterfront promenade.
Day Three and Four: Boston to Kennebunkport
Play: Set off on a two-hour train ride past small towns, wooded fields, and green meadows to Kennebunkport. Then stretch your legs along Ocean Avenue past grand estates, sailboat-dotted harbors, and impeccably manicured grounds. Linger at Parsons Park and watch the waves crash against the rocks.
Eat: Savor the sunshine and to-die-for blueberry scones at French-inspired café Mornings in Paris in adorable old town. Later, grab fresh, local clam chowder to-go at H.B. Provisions general store and make a picnic of it along Kennebunk River.
Stay: The postcard-perfect Kennebunkport Inn, once a 19th-century tea merchant’s mansion, has 35 revamped rooms decked in classic New England chic with navy, red and white stripes and nickel fixtures. Enjoy sunsets and cocktails beside the outdoor fireplace on the terrace.
Day Five: Kennebunkport to Newport
Play: You’ve got a three-hour drive to the seaside haven of Newport. Once there, nix the car and breathe in the fresh ocean air along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile coastal trail sandwiched between the Atlantic and the famed mansions’ football-sized lawns. Don’t miss theNational Museum of American Illustration housed in Vernon Court, a 17th century French chateau.
Eat: Get gourmet eats at A-Market: with oodles of scenic spots, a picnic in this town is a must.
Stay: For an insanely romantic escape, check into a beachfront cottage at Castle Hill Inn, perched on the sand dunes of Narragansett Bay. The standalone charmers are romantically whitewashed in wood paneling with high-beamed ceilings, gas jet fireplaces and French doors opening to your own private deck.
