New England is a four-season destination. It’s famous for its beautiful fall foliage, forested hills and mountains, picturesque lakes, and colonial history. And yet it also offers a variety of activities and attractions during the winter months. And not just at its famous ski resorts! Each of the six states:
- Maine
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
Host unique and charming little villages, lodges, and full-blown luxury resorts. Winter is a beautiful season to visit New England. Its snowy fields and cozy towns make it a Christmas wonderland.
There are many activities to do in New England during winter. A few top picks include ice skating, snowshoeing, scenic trains, skiing, and getting cozy in New England inns. There are also other exciting adventures and activities like winter day trips, and winter festivals.
New England is perfect for both skiers and non-skiers. The quaint lodges, winter sports, and indoor activities will keep you busy.
Ready to explore the best winter getaways in New England? Let’s get into it:
Quick hits
- Explore frosty New England with outdoor winter activities, ski resorts and romantic getaways!
- Pack your snow gear for the best winter towns in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts & Vermont.
- Cozy up to luxurious hotels & inns for an unforgettable escape this season!
The Best New England Winter Getaways
From the snowy peaks of Vermont to the charming coastal towns of Rhode Island, New England offers an irresistible array of winter getaways. For a fantastic winter getaway in New England, some possibilities include:
- Ice castles
- Snowshoeing
- Scenic trains
- Skiing
- Cuddling up by the fire in a cozy inn
And with each state boasting its unique winter climate and ambiance, you’re sure to find the perfect winter wonderland just for you.
Brace yourself for a spectacular journey across each of the states to discover the most enchanting winter getaways. Don’t forget to bundle up!
The Best Winter Getaways in Connecticut
Sure, most people think of the states in the northern part of New England when planning a winter getaway.
But you can skip the drive and get to enjoying your winter getaways in New England much faster if you head to the first state on this list.
We already have a full guide to winter getaways in Connecticut, so click over if you want to see our full list. The top four we’d recommend for a visit in the winter are:
Essex, CT
Essex, Connecticut, is the place to be when winter’s chill winds start to blow. Picture a small New England town, brimming with winter charm. A place so quaint, it could be the set of a Hallmark movie. And in fact, it was – Christmas at Pemberley Manor.
Unique shops line its adorable Main Street that lure you in for a bout of retail therapy. And one of the most historic inns in Connecticut, and therefore America, sits right on Main Street. The Griswold Inn is a cozy little nook that offers more than just a place to rest your weary head. A tap room, a wine bar, and a dining experience that feels like home await at one of the most romantic inns in CT.
Mystic, CT
This historic waterfront town, once a bustling hub for shipbuilders, now serves as a winter retreat for the ski-averse. The Mystic Seaport Maritime Museum, a recreated 19th-century New England community, is gorgeous under a blanket of snow.
There are way more things to do in Mystic, CT, than just that, though. The Mystic Aquarium is a must-visit. And the Olde Mistick Village, a shopping complex styled after a 1720s colonial village, is a trove of unique finds. Art galleries abound, and the seafood? Fresh as the New England air.
Then, there’s the Inn at Mystic. Right by the Mystic River, each of its 50 rooms boast:
- Private baths
- Wood-burning fireplaces
- Private Jacuzzis
- And outdoor balconies or courtyards
The views of the Mystic River are lovely. It’s an artist’s dream, a photographer’s paradise. And the shopping? It’s worth braving the cold for the shops on Main Street and the Olde Mistik Village just outside town.
A winter wonderland, minus the skis.
Greenwich, CT
We may be biased, but Greenwich, Connecticut, is another one of the best winter getaways in New England. The southernmost town in the region and right on Long Island Sound, you’ll enjoy a milder winter here. So less chance of your plans getting tossed in the air by a snowstorm.
Downtown Greenwich and its upscale restaurants and boutiques are hopping, even when the weather is cold. And you can always book a visit to one of the local spas if you’d prefer a spa day.
And the lengthy list of things to do in Greenwich, CT, in the winter includes plenty of other indoor activities. Museums, art galleries, and historic sites will keep you busy if you didn’t pack enough warm clothes to be outside for too long.
And if you did, head to one of the parks in Greenwich. We’d recommend making a beeline to Greenwich Point Park, which is free to non-residents in the winter. Head to the southwest corner to get a gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline on the horizon.
Speaking of which, many New Englanders come down our way to stay with us at our New England bed and breakfast and take MetroNorth into New York City. There’s obviously a ton of winter activities in New York City, which certainly expands your options. And all while enjoying a much quieter town to sleep in at night.
Litchfield, CT
Litchfield, Connecticut, of the Litchfield Hills, morphs into a winter spectacle. This canvas of white beckons the weary traveler with promises of tranquility. The town teems with life, despite the frosty veneer. Among the list of things to do in Litchfield, CT, you can lose yourself in the labyrinth of unique stores, like the Housatonic Trading Company. Or immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the annual Christmas Town Festival in nearby Bethlehem, CT.
The winter landscape is not just a sight to behold, but a playground for the adventurous. Winter activities abound up here. Mohawk Mountain, with its 26 ski trails, is a haven for novices and experts. Meanwhile, the White Memorial Foundation tempts the seasoned explorer with over 40 miles of trails. They’re ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And there are plenty of other fantastic CT hiking trails in the area, including Macedonia Brook State Park.
The town’s charm extends to its beautiful downtown area, where you can catch a play at the Warner Theatre.
The Best New England Winter Towns in Rhode Island
While everyone and their mom knows about Newport, Rhode Island, this is another state people overlook in the winter.
But Newport is one of the best winter getaways in New England, and it’s not the only one here.
Newport, RI
Newport, Rhode Island, might be a hot spot in the summer. And yet it’s got a charm in the winter that’s hard to beat. It’s got fewer folks around and the weather’s a bit kinder than up north. You can spend your days touring those grand mansions from the Gilded Age, or take a stroll along the scenic Cliff Walk (careful with ice). Or just gawk at historic homes.
The White Horse Tavern, the oldest tavern in the country, is a place you want to be when the winter wind starts howling. Winter frolics include skating at Goat Island, admiring the lighthouse and Newport Bridge, and making a stop at the Newport Winter Festival.
The city’s got a range of places to lay your head, from the Admiral Fitzroy Inn to the Castle Hill Inn. You can fill your days visiting the famous mansions, ice skating at Gurney’s Newport Skating Center, and stopping by Kilwin’s for some winter treats that’ll make your mouth water. So, don’t write off Newport when the snow starts to fall. Its winter charm just might surprise you.
Exeter, RI
Exeter, Rhode Island, not just a name on a map, but the home of Yawgoo Valley Ski Area, the state’s lone ski resort. It’s a place where snow lovers, both skiers and snowboarders, can carve their way down the mountain, leaving their mark on the snow-covered trails. And when the day’s adventures have left you parched, the Tilted Barn Brewery awaits, serving up local brews and food truck fare. And the warmth of their fire pits provide a welcome respite from the winter chill.
Yawgoo doesn’t discriminate against skill levels, it embraces all with its two trails and two chair lifts. And when the day’s adventures have been had, a short 20-minute drive will take you to Narragansett, where you can quench your thirst with a pint from local breweries Whalers or Sons of Liberty.
Providence, RI
Providence, Rhode Island. A city that doesn’t sleep in winter. It’s a place where theater and cityscape collide, a place that knows how to put on a show. The Providence Performing Arts Center, it’s the heart of the city’s pulse, beating with every performance. And the Kennedy Plaza? It transforms into an ice rink, a stage for the city’s residents to perform their pirouettes and stumbles.
Shopping and dining, they’re not just activities here, they’re experiences. The Arcade on Weybosset Street, it’s not your typical shopping destination. It’s a treasure trove of boutiques, each one more unique than the last, all housed under a roof that’s seen more years than any of us. And the food? It’s a culinary journey led by locals who know the city like the back of their hand.
But what’s a visit to Providence without a stroll through its historic streets? They’re like a time machine, taking you back to days of old, only with fewer crowds in winter. It’s a city that knows how to wear the winter, and it wears it well. So, if you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s a bit off the beaten path, Providence, Rhode Island is your ticket.
The Best Winter Getaways in Massachusetts
Most members of my immediate family have lived in Boston, Massachusetts at one point or another.
Except for me, the rebel. But after living in the Pioneer Valley in my 20s, Massachusetts will always have a soft spot in my heart.
I’m quite partial to the Berkshires and Western Massachusetts anytime of year, including the winter.
But that’s of course not the only place to visit this time of year. Though Boston isn’t either!
Stockbridge, MA
Stockbridge, Massachusetts, is a quaint little town in The Berkshires, and no stranger to the limelight. A Christmas painting by none other than Norman Rockwell immortalized it. The town’s Main Street, which is the star of Rockwell’s artwork, doesn’t lose its charm once the Christmas decorations come down. It’s just as delightful in the heart of winter. The town offers a smorgasbord of activities to keep you occupied, from exploring the local shops and restaurants to hitting the nearby ski slopes. If you’re not too keen on skiing, you can try snow tubing at Hilltop Orchards. You can take a Holiday House Tour at The Mount and see the Winterlights at Naumkeag. If you’re looking for unique New England winter getaways, you can’t go wrong with Stockbridge.
Northampton, MA
Whenever we wanted something livelier than what our small town had to offer, we headed to Northampton, MA. That’s not to say that it compares to a big city, but that’s of course its charm.
And when winter descends on Northampton, it does so with a flourish. The main thoroughfare is a sight to behold. Shops and restaurants jostle for attention, their warm glow a honing beacon in the frosty air. The Dirty Truth is a beer hall, its name a sly wink to the art of brewing.
A visit to the Smith College Museum of Art is akin to stepping into another world. The ever-changing exhibits are worth a regular visit. The Lyman Plant House and Conservatory, with greenhouses that have stood the test of time since 1895, is a verdant paradise amidst the winter landscape. It’s a living museum of sorts, with 3,000 plant species playing the starring roles.
The Hotel Northampton, a grand dame from 1927, extends a warm welcome to weary travelers. Shops, galleries, and eateries of downtown are within walking distance.
Boston, MA
I promise I don’t hate Boston. It is a great winter getaway destination. Unless you live in Boston, in which case, you’ll probably want to skip to the next stop on the list.
When the winter chill descends upon the city of Boston, the metropolis doesn’t merely survive, it thrives. The city’s historic streets, dusted with snow, beckon visitors to explore this city of scholars, sports fans, and seafood lovers. The Freedom Trail, a winding path through the city’s most significant sites, traverses the grounds of the Massachusetts State House and Old State House, Paul Revere’s home, the site of the Boston Massacre, and the USS Constitution, among others.
Indoor attractions like the Boston Science Museum and the Boston Aquarium offer respite from the frosty air. And the Boston Opera House and the Prudential Center provide a dose of culture and entertainment. As for the sports enthusiasts, you can enjoy ice skating on Frog Pond, cheer on your favorite teams, and browse holiday markets. And to sweeten the deal, Boston’s culinary scene features an array of cozy cafés and restaurants. Start by warming up with a cup of hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick or the Taza Chocolate Factory.
While the city’s coastal location may make its winters milder than other New England areas, it doesn’t lack in festive cheer. As the day turns into night, the city’s vibrant nightlife comes alive, with shows, vintage movies, and sporting events at the iconic Art Deco Coolidge Corner theatre. Boston, in the heart of winter, is a city that knows how to play in the snow.
Chatham, MA
Until a recent spring trip to Provincetown, MA, I’d never been to Cape Cod any time of year other than winter.
But Cape Cod is indeed a winter haven. It offers a unique blend of salty sea air and crisp chill. Chatham, Massachusetts, at the peninsula’s edge, is a bit of warmth amidst winter’s icy grip. With its mild days and scarce snow, it’s a sanctuary for the winter-weary.
Historic lighthouses, quaint museums, and local boutiques adorn the town. And the Orpheum Theater promises captivating performances. The Chatham Inn, one of Cape Cod’s oldest, provides a cozy retreat with modern luxuries.
Cape Cod, a serene beauty year-round, transforms into a romantic wonderland in winter, making it one of the best New England winter getaways.
The Best New England Winter Towns in Vermont
This New Englander equates Vermont with skiing. Growing-up, we would head to either Quebec or Vermont once a year, depending on which winter vacation spot was cheaper, based on the exchange rate.
While Quebec felt a little more exotic, it felt like most of my hometown settled in similar sections of Vermont during winter breaks.
Stowe, VT
Stowe, Vermont, has got the mountains, the views, the ski resorts, and the scenic drives. When January rolls around, the town hosts its Winter Carnival. It’s a spectacle of ice sculpture contests, sporting events, and evening parties. You can also take gondola sky rides at Stowe Mountain Resort, or ice skate at Spruce Peak Village Center. If you’re not one for skis, you can try your hand at ice skating, snow tubing, or snowshoeing. The village is a charming little place, with boutiques, spas, restaurants, and walking paths. It’s a place where you can spend a winter weekend, and feel like you’ve been on a month-long vacation. Between its picturesque setting and a magical influence, Stowe, Vermont is a winter paradise.
Waitsfield, VT
Waitsfield, in the center of Vermont, is a haven for those with a taste for the slopes. Here, you’ll find Mad River Glen and Sugarbush Ski Resort, their snowy peaks a challenge to the daring. Unlike the bustling Stowe, Waitsfield is a quieter creature, with a more rural charm. The town’s Main Street is a storybook scene, its charm only rivaled by the original American Flatbread Company restaurant. And if you’d rather swap skis for slippers, Waitsfield offers the promise of winter massages and a journey through the town’s covered bridges. Snowshoeing and ice skating could be the order of the day, and the town’s cozy winter vibes make the perfect backdrop.
Woodstock, VT
Woodstock, Vermont, another delightful Vermont hamlet, is another great pick for New England winter getaways. The nearby Killington Ski Resort boasts a grand 1,900 acres of skiable terrain. And the Woodstock Inn & Resort Nordic Center offers another 27 miles of trails. It’s no wonder that this town has become a mecca for cross-country skiers and fat biking enthusiasts. The Saskadena Six ski resort is a haven for beginners, if you’re not quite so ambitious.
But it’s not all about the snow and slopes here. The Woodstock area is also home to a collection of charming covered bridges:
- Lincoln
- Middle
- Taftsville
- Quechee
As the year winds down, the town comes alive with the Wassail Weekend Christmas celebration, a spectacle of community spirit and festive cheer.
Burlington, VT
Burlington, Vermont, may be the largest city in the state, but it still ozzes New England charm. Winter ushers in a host of jamborees, like the New Year’s Eve Highlight jamboree, the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, and a shopping spree along Church Street Marketplace. The nearby mountains of Sugarbush, Smuggler’s Notch, Mad River Glen, and Stowe beckon skiers. The city is a cornucopia of eateries and coffee shops, with a special nod to the vegan and vegetarian crowd. Revolution Kitchen, Juice Amor, and Pingala Cafe are some of the standouts. The Whiskey Room and New Moon Cafe are also popular options for vegetarian dishes. Burlington also boasts a ton of breweries and distilleries.
Winter is an opportune time for a quick city break in New England, especially if winter sports aren’t your cup of tea. Indoor activities include strolling along Church St., window shopping, and warming up in snug coffee shops, bars, and pubs.
Provided the weather isn’t too severe for driving, Burlington is also a great spot to settle for a longer trip. You can easily get to most of the other Vermont spots on this list for even more wintry activities.
The Best Winter Getaways in New Hampshire
New Englanders from the western side of the region go to Vermont in the winter, Easterners go to New Hampshire. New Hampshire is a haven for mountain enthusiasts, and New Englanders that like to have an effect on Presidential elections.
North Conway, NH
North Conway, once the top ski town in North America, is still a magical New England winter getaway. It is located in the White Mountains region and offers snow and breathtaking mountain views. The charming downtown of the town is home to shops such as:
And the nearby Mount Washington Valley Chocolate Festival offers special chocolate treats along cross-country and snowshoeing trails. North Conway, New Hampshire, is home to five ski resorts. The list includes Cranmore Mountain, which has over 250 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
From here, you can go ice climbing or hiking to frozen waterfalls with a guide. North Conway also has a scenic train, SnowCoach Tours, and self-drive Kancamagus Highway tours.
Lincoln, NH
North Conway lost is title of top ski destination thanks to Lincoln, NH. This ideal New England winter destination is home to Loon Mountain Ski Resort. One of the best places to ski on the East Coast, it has over 60 skiable trails and a cross-country ski trail system. The town also has a charming village, excellent restaurants, and an Alpine Adventures winter zip lining tour. The town is also home to the lovely Franconia Notch State Park, which offers activities like hiking through the Flume, snowshoeing to Lonesome Lake, and scenic drives. The Ice Castles, built by professionals each year using hundreds of thousands of icicles, are one of the area’s most unique attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and unique winter activities while exploring ice slides, fountains, and tunnels.
Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is another delightful winter destination. This coastal town is famous for its history, shopping, and dining. It has the feel of a small town despite being a city. And its postcard-worthy streets are an ideal winter getaway destination. Visit the Strawbery Banke Museum for the outdoor rink and historic homes, a unique combination. The museum and skating rink are near the waterfront park, and the historic homes are beautifully decorated during the holiday season. Market Square in Portsmouth is a fantastic shopping destination, with boutiques such as janegee and Sault New England. You’ll also find excellent restaurants here.
Jackson, NH
The final stop in New Hampshire is Jackson. Home to the fabled “Honeymoon Bridge”, which is said to bring good luck, Jackson, New Hampshire is a charming and romantic winter getaway destination. The town, in the White Mountains, offers a variety of outdoor activities such as:
- Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Ice skating
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides
- And unique ice castles
And if you need even more winter activities, you can head to nearby North Conway.
Wildcat Mountain Resort, SnowCoach Tours, Mount Washington’s treeline, and the Kancamagus Highway are also nearby attractions. Arethusa Falls, New Hampshire’s tallest waterfall, is also in Jackson. And if this is a family New England winter getaway, head to Nestlenook Farms for sleigh rides, among other activities. Or enjoy some beginning-friendly skiing at Wildcat Mountain. The Christmas Farm Inn and Spa in Jackson is one of the town’s cozy cabins for rent.
The Best New England Winter Towns in Maine
Maine might as well be Alaska for southern New Englanders. It’s huge (to us), and so far north that it might as well be next door to our northernmost state.
All that is to say, this New Englander is not trying to dissuade from visiting Maine in the winter months. If you really want to get away from it all, this is the place to go on a New England winter getaway.
Bethel, Maine
Bethel, Maine’s top ski town, provides a variety of winter outdoor activities. Top hits here include:
Snow tubing
Cross-country ski trails
Snowmobiling
Ice fishing
And ice skating
Lakes and mountains surround the town, making it an ideal getaway for a quiet escape from city life. You’ll find even more winter activities in the White Mountain National Forest, including hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing. And over a hundred trails surrounding the Sunday River Resort and Grafton Notch State Park. The Sunday River Resort also offers canoe trips, dog sledding adventures, fat biking, and snow tubing, aside from the more typical skiing and snowboarding. The Maine Mineral and Gem Museum and the Bethel Historical Society Museums are both fun places to learn about the area’s history.
Freeport, Maine
For New England winter getaways, Freeport, Maine, provides a cozy and home-away-from-home experience. And the flagship L.L. Bean store is a major draw anytime of year for shopping and outdoor activities. Freeport is a more laid-back winter resort town with restaurants and shops beyond the L.L. Bean Flagship campus. Cross-country and snowshoe trails, sleigh rides, and the Frosty Frolic are all worthy of a visit. In February, visitors can enjoy events such as the Frosty Frolic, dance parties, and the Freeport Foodie Lotto, as well as Flavors of Freeport, where Maine’s best chefs showcase their culinary creations.
Camden, Maine
Camden is another popular winter getaway destination in New England. Skiing, snowboarding, and toboggan chutes are among the activities available at Camden Snow Bowl. The area’s international recognition stems from its breathtaking ocean views. It’s a one-of-a-kind winter skiing destination. Camden is also a charming coastal town with a lovely Main Street lined with shops and restaurants that offers a fun apres ski vibe. And they don’t close off the apres ski activities to non-skiers, by the way.
Kennebunkport, Maine
With its charming main street, local shops, and fresh seafood, Kennebunkport offers a charming winter scene. With a population of approximately 3,700 people, it is a charming coastal town in southern Maine. The town plays host to a variety of winter activities such as scenic sleigh rides, cross-country ski trails, and ice skating at the Waterhouse Center Ice Rink. Winter fishing shacks are popular near Batson River Brewing & Distilling. In December, the town also hosts a tree lighting ceremony. You can also get into horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country ski trails, and a skating rink.
Rangeley, Maine
Another major New England destination for snow sports and non-skiing activities during the winter is Rangeley, Maine. Rangeley Lakes Trail Center has more than 30 miles of groomed ski trails, snowshoeing, and fat biking trails. Meanwhile, Rangeley Lake has more than 170 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Hit up the downtown shops and head to Moose Alley for night bowling and cocktails. The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway is the place to be for scenic drives and breathtaking views of the area.
Portland, Maine
Hipsters the world over know about Portland, both the one in Maine and the one on the other side of the continent. Portland is a lovely city for a quiet winter retreat with smaller crowds. Portland may be much smaller than Boston, but it has great shopping, ocean views, and fun winter outdoor activities like ice skating and cross-country skiing. The city’s three snow-covered lighthouses:
Portland Head Light
Bug Light
And Spring Point Ledge Light
Are all open to visitors. The culinary scene is also excellent, with top Portland restaurants serving hearty seasonal fare. Taking a walking tour through Old Port provides an insider’s guide to the best food here. Maine Restaurant Week happens each year in March. Whether you’re here then or not, be sure to dine at:
Standard Baking Co
The Holy Donut
And Katie Made Bakery
After a day of wintry outdoor activities.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Most people think of Acadia National Park, and therefore Bar Harbor, in the summertime. And while the summer is its busiest time of year, Bar Harbor hosts peaceful surroundings. Many restaurants and shops on Mount Desert Island close for the winter season, so this is more of an outdoor enthusiasts’ destination.
Walk around Jordan Pond or hike to the Bubbles. Or enjoy the scenic Ocean Drive and famous spots like
Schooner Head Overlook
Thunder Hole
And Sand Beach
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are possible on over 45 miles of carriage roads. Hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing are also popular outdoor activities in the winter.
Where to go in New England for the best outdoor winter activities
Explore New England’s winter getaways with outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow tubing, ice fishing, dog sledding, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Enjoy adrenaline-pumping slopes or tranquil glides through snow-covered forests, making it a true winter playground.
Ski Resorts for skiing and snowboarding
Boasting some of the country’s finest alpine skiing resorts, New England is an irresistible destination for ski enthusiasts. Some of the top skiing destinations in the entire region include:
- Sugarbush in Vermont
- Killington in Vermont
- Stowe in Vermont
- Bretton Woods in Vermont
- Sunday River in Maine
- Saddleback Mt. in Maine
- Shawnee Peak in New Hampshire
- Mt. Abram in New Hampshire
Aside from world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding, many of these resorts also offer luxurious amenities like:
- Day spas
- Restaurants
- Bars
- Shopping
- Swimming pools
- Fitness centers
- An indoor pool or two
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to hit the slopes for the first time, New England’s ski resorts are the place to stay.
Cross country skiing
Cross-country skiing in New England offers a slower way to explore the region’s winter landscapes. Trails can range from kilometer-long for beginners to 300 miles for experienced skiers. Basic gear includes skis, bindings, boots, and poles, and appropriate clothing for comfort. With practice and the right equipment:
- Skis
- Bindings
- Boots and poles
- And appropriate clothing for comfort
You can glide through the snow.
The best places to go cross-country skiing in New England are:
- Litchfield, Connecticut
- Woodstock, Vermont
- North Conway, New Hampshire
- Lincoln, New Hampshire
- Bethel, Maine
- Freeport, Maine
- Kennebunkport, Maine
- Portland, Maine
- Bar Harbor, Maine
Ice skating
Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity in New England. And it’s perfect if you’re looking to recreate your favorite Olympics moments. Glide gracefully across the ice at picturesque rinks like:
- Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond in Portsmouth
- The Dorothy Hammill Skating rink for ice skating in Greenwich, Connecticut, to follow in the footsteps of Olympians
- And Dorrs Pond in Manchester, New Hampshire
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner looking to learn, ice skating provides a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy New England’s winter wonderland. So, lace up your skates and hit the ice!
Snow tubing
Snow tubing is a thrilling winter activity that requires minimal skill and equipment. New England offers various snow tubing parks with varying hours of operation, making it easy to find a location that fits your schedule. Bundle up and enjoy the downhill adventure at one of the best places to go snow tubing in Connecticut.
Ice fishing
Ice fishing is a unique winter activity in New England’s frozen lakes and ponds. With proper gear and warmth, you can potentially catch a fresh catch to share by the fire. And Bethel, Maine, is one of the best destinations in New England for ice fishing, though there are a lot of options.
Dog Sledding
For an unforgettable winter adventure, embark on a thrilling dog sledding journey through snowy landscapes. Dog sledding offers an exciting way to explore New England’s winter wonderland, led by a team of energetic and friendly dogs.
Experience dog sledding at one of the top locations in New England, like:
- Adair Country Inn in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
- New England Dogsledding on the Maine and New Hampshire border of the White Mountain National Forest
- Muddy Paws Dog Sled Kennel in Jefferson, New Hampshire
So, bundle up, hop on a sled, and let these four-legged friends guide you through a magical winter landscape on your next New England winter vacation.
Horse drawn sleigh rides
For a more leisurely and romantic winter activity, cozy up on a horse-drawn carriage ride through picturesque winter scenery. This charming activity allows you to snuggle up under a warm blanket while gliding through snow-covered landscapes, led by a team of majestic horses.
Horse-drawn sleigh rides are available at several locations throughout New England, such as:
- Charmingfare Farm in Candia, NH
- Coppal House Farm in Lee, NH
- Allegra Farm in East Haddam, Connecticut
- And Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH
So, wrap up warm and let the gentle clip-clop of hooves transport you through a winter wonderland.
The Best Winter Resorts In New England
After highlighting some of the best outdoor winter activities, we’ll look at the most luxurious and cozy winter resorts New England has to offer. These exceptional resorts, ranging from the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge to the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort, are the ideal setting for relaxing and indulgent winter weekend getaways.
Trapp Family Lodge
Experience Austrian-inspired luxury at Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont. This ski resort offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and more, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Green Mountains.
The Lodge At Spruce Peak
Indulge in ski-in, ski-out convenience at The Lodge At Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont. This luxurious ski resort offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on the slopes, and a spa, restaurants, and bars for those looking to unwind after a day of winter fun.
Loon Mountain RiverWalk
Located in Lincoln, New Hampshire, Loon Mountain RiverWalk offers stunning mountain views and a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
With luxurious accommodations and a spa, winery tasting room, and restaurant on site, this resort is the perfect destination for a winter getaway in the White Mountains.
Samoset Resort
Samoset Resort in Rockport, Maine, offers a unique coastal winter experience. With an ice bar on select weekends in January, an on-site spa, and a range of winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing, this resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a winter retreat with a twist.
Woodstock Inn & Resort
Experience classic New England charm at Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock, Vermont. This luxurious resort offers a range of winter activities, including:
- skiing
- snowshoeing
- snowmobiling
- cross-country trails
Making it one of the best destinations for a cozy and charming England winter getaway.
Omni Mount Washington Resort
Choose the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, for a winter experience that will etch itself into your memory. With skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and sleigh rides available, this resort offers an array of winter activities for guests to enjoy. Luxurious amenities like a full-service spa and awe-inspiring views of the Presidential Range make this resort a must-visit winter destination.
The White Barn Inn & Spa
Unwind at The White Barn Inn & Spa in Kennebunk, Maine, for a romantic retreat. This luxurious inn offers:
- Cozy accommodations
- A spa
- Fire pits
- Seasonal cocktails
It’s the perfect destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in a much-needed relaxing winter vacation.
White Mountain Hotel and Resort
Skiers and shoppers will love this place to stay in North Conway, NH. Guests can choose from some of the best winter resorts in New Hampshire such as:
- Attitash
- Black Mountain
- And Cranmore
The inn’s central location allows guests to ski one resort and then switch to another the next day. Tax-free shopping is available at the North Conway Scenic Railroad and North Conway Village. The resort offers award-winning cuisine at Tullamore Tavern and Ledges Restaurant to go with their 80 luxurious guest rooms and suites.
Romantic winter getaways in New England
To plan a romantic New England winter getaway, the region presents an array of snug accommodations, inviting fireplaces, and beautiful settings.
So you and your partner are pretty much guaranteed a romantic experience.
From luxurious hotels to charming romantic inns, there are plenty of options for couples seeking a memorable winter escape.
The Most Romantic Hotels in New England
For an exceptionally romantic winter retreat, one of New England’s most romantic hotels, like:
- Chatham Bars Inn
- The Eliot Hotel
- Or Brass Key Guesthouse, one of the most well-known gay resorts in New England
Could be the perfect choice for you. These luxury establishments provide idyllic settings and upscale amenities, ideal for couples seeking to escape winter’s chill and spend quality time together.
The Most Romantic Inns in New England
If you prefer a cozier setting for your romantic winter retreat, New England is home to some of the most charming and romantic inns. Here are a few options:
- Stanton House Inn in Connecticut
- Life House in Nantucket
- Winvian Farms, one of the most romantic inns in Connecticut
- The Vanderbilt in Rhode Island
- White Barn Inn in Maine
- Twin Farms in Vermont
These inns offer intimate accommodations and enchanting atmospheres perfect for reconnecting with your loved one during the winter months.
Tl;dr
Winter getaways in New England cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. This enchanting region has something for everyone, from picturesque winter towns and thrilling outdoor activities to luxurious resorts and romantic getaways. So, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or romance, pack your bags and set out on a winter adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing about New England winter?
The best thing about New England winter is the wide-ranging pursuits it offers, from classic activities like skiing to new opportunities like surfing in the snow and birdwatching.
Where do rich New Yorkers vacation in the winter?
Rich New Yorkers often flock to the Caribbean island of Barts, ski towns in Vermont and France, upstate mountains and coastal New England. Whether it’s for skiing or sun-filled days, there are plenty of luxurious winter getaway destinations for New Yorkers.
Is New England pretty in November?
With calming vibes and remaining pockets of fall color, New England can be a surprisingly peaceful and pretty destination in November.
What are some popular winter activities in New England?
In New England, winter offers plenty of winter activities to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding, to ice skating and snow tubing, as well as ice fishing, dog sledding, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Where can I find the best ski resorts in New England?
Ski bunnies, rejoice! The best ski resorts in New England are right at your fingertips – Sugarbush, Killington, Stowe, and Bretton Woods in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire.
