Planning a New England Honeymoon: What to Do and Where to Stay

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New England has an impressively diverse geography for a region of its size. The Atlantic Ocean and Canada hedge it in on its East and North. It is a land of scenic beauty sprinkled with towering forests, lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges.

Is New England a Good Place for a Honeymoon?

Yes, New England is a fantastic all-year-round honeymoon destination. It has a rich culture, history, scenery, and local cuisine.

What Can You Do in New England?

There are many reasons why New England is an amazing honeymoon destination. Some of the most popular attractions and activities include:

  • Nature parks, like Acadia National Park
  • Access to lakes, including Lake Champlain and Moosehead Lake
  • Historical and national heritage sites, like Rhode Island
  • Magnificent mountains, including Mount Washington
  • Coastal attractions, like Cape Cod
  • Beautiful fall scenery
  • Skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding activities in winter

Which Is the Best Month to Visit New England for a Honeymoon?

Honeymoon in New England’s coastal towns in September or October, when the temperatures are warm. The winter wonderland-loving duo should visit between December and February.

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Fall colors in New England

What Is the Average Price of a Honeymoon in New England?

New England is one of the most expensive states to live in. As a result, a New England honeymoon package could be a tad pricey. Some high-end establishments charge upwards of $5,000 per night during peak season. Modest stays will cost $5,090 per week. Daily expenses for two are approximately $180.

What Is the Cheapest Time to Go to New England?

New England is a year-round destination, so it has prolonged high seasons. But vast crowds invade it in summer and fall.

Early spring is the “mud season,” so the accommodation rates are cheaper. From late March to early May, the snow begins to melt and mixes with the dirt. It is displeasing to look at and makes traveling more difficult (by foot and car). Most trees are barren in this season, and many restaurateurs shut down for maintenance.

6 Best Places to Stay for a New England Honeymoon

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is one of the 13 original American colonies. Consequently, it is rich in American history and culture. It is one of the best places to have your northeastern USA honeymoon.

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Boston

This is home to New England’s largest city, Boston, one of the most romantic cities in the US. You can visit Boston and enjoy fine dining in an award-winning restaurant, vibrant nightlife, and many other couples activities, including walks in the Public Garden.

Additionally, if your honeymoon in Boston is in summer or spring, you can ride the beautiful Swan Boats. In winter, you can skate on the frozen Boston Common Frog Pond in the moonlight. You can also enjoy walking wine tours that blend history and food culture.

Other romantic activities for newlyweds in Boston include the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the New England Aquarium.

Alternatively, have your New England honeymoon at Cape Cod. It has a gorgeous East Coast oceanfront and unrivaled charm. You can spend your time on the sandy beaches during the day, then cozy up by a romantic fire pit or hot tub at night. Do not forget to visit Martha’s Vineyard, one of Cape Cod’s most iconic tourist spots.

A Nantucket honeymoon is yet another honeymoon option. This romantic town was once a whaling hub with many historic lighthouses and piers.

Another New England honeymoon hot spot is the Berkshires in western Massachusetts. This mountain region is an art and recreation zone. The outdoor-loving couple can hike Mount Greylock, which has a 3,500 feet high summit. Drive just 30 minutes to reach Pontoosuc Lake and Lake Onota, where you can picnic, canoe, kayak, or swim in calming blue waters.

Suggested duration: Most honeymooners stay 5 to 7 days. You can have an extended or short stay, depending on your budget, time, and destination.

Weather: Fall and summer are the best times to visit Massachusetts. Most parks and the Cape are open to tourists in summer. But you can also visit Boston in fall as foliage takes on orange, gold, and bright red hues. Massachusetts has average summer highs of 80°F. Fall lows can dip to 60°F.

Connecticut

Do you admire your beloved like Humphrey Bogart loved Lauren Bacall? Then make plans for a New England honeymoon in Connecticut. This iconic silver screen couple honeymooned in Mystic, Connecticut. This charming, beautiful coastal town is just one of the many attractions that New England’s southernmost state has to offer.

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Mystic seaport

Mystic on the east has charming villas and adorable farmland inns. It also has romantic coastal hotels where you can enjoy delicious cuisine and the most spectacular sunrises. Other activities for couples in Mystic include a visit to the Mystic Aquarium and an adrenaline-packed adventure at the Aerial Adventure Park.

On the other hand, Litchfield is rich in art, history, and antique shops. Its scenery includes lush gardens and rolling hills. Romantic activities for honeymooners in Litchfield include a serene stroll in the Topsmead State Forest. Then visit the Litchfield vineyards and the Warner Theater for a live performance.

Hartford is a New England honeymoon destination for lovers that appreciate classic elegance. A few of its charming small-town attractions include serene gardens and the Connecticut River.

Suggested duration: 5 to 7 days

Weather: Connecticut has all four seasons. August is its hottest month, with temperatures rising to mid 80°F. Winter temperatures can plunge to 37°F. Connecticut accommodations are at a bargain price in winter.

The best time to visit Connecticut is in spring and summer. You will be on time for the Connecticut Wine, BBQ, Irish, and Sheep and Wool festivals.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a secluded and romantic New England honeymoon destination. So, as soon as the champagne toasts wind down, hug your friends and family and slip away into this wild hideaway.

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Franconia Ridge Trail in the White Mountains

The White Mountains have natural beauty all year round and are perfect for the outdoorsy couple. You can hike or drive up Mount Washington and make unforgettable memories.

Then visit the surrounding cities to complete your New Hampshire honeymoon. Concord is this state’s capital and home to exquisite steak dishes and wine.

Suggested duration: 4 days

Weather: New Hampshire’s winters have endless snow; temperatures can drop below zero in January. The freezing weather generates about 68 inches of snow and is an excellent time to go skiing.

But the summers are humid and warm. June to August ranges in 80°F temperatures, perfect for mountain biking and other outdoor activities.

Maine

The Pine Tree State is synonymous with unspoiled dense forests and a long craggy coastline. It also has numerous shingle houses, inns, and many hydrangea-filled gardens.

Maine has heartwarming dining options. So on date night, splurge on freshly caught lobster rolls and clam chowder and crown your binge with some blueberry pie.

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Bar Harbor

First, visit Bar Harbor if you desire seclusion in nature. It is near Acadia National Park, where you can hike around Mount Desert Island or walk the Beehive Trail. Cadillac Mountain offers the early birds exquisite sunrise vistas.

Afterward, take a load off in Bar Harbor’s eateries, and try an exquisite lobster stew. Later, enjoy delectable desserts like the wild blueberry sorbet.

Alternatively, you can enjoy ocean views on your honeymoon at Kennebunkport. It is a resort town with various water activities, including sailing, kayaking, fishing, and an opportunity to catch live lobsters on a fishing boat.

Portland, on the other hand, is a foodie’s haven. It has a variety of acclaimed restaurants and brewhouses. Stop by the best beer houses to sample Portland’s ciders, meads, and kombuchas.

You can also spend some time in Camden and enjoy Victorian-style charm. Some to-dos in Camden include a ferry ride to Monhegan Island and a photo opp on Penobscot Bay harbor.

Suggested duration: 5 to 7 days

Weather: Summer is the best time of the year to visit Maine. All the main attractions are open to tourists, and the beaches are perfect. However, November to March is the winter season. Temperatures can drop to 8°F in January. July is the hottest month, with peak temperatures of 70°F.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a tiny state but packs a punch. It has miles and miles of coastline, earning itself the Ocean State label. Newport is its capital and a playground for the wealthy.

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Rhode Island coastline

A few New England honeymoon activities in Rhode Island include surfing and swimming. But then, you can sail away from Newport and view this little state’s majesty from a distance.

There are also helicopter tours that offer a bird’s eye view of the island’s scenery. Additionally, you can visit the Napatree Point Conservation or the Weekapaug salt marshes for a change of scenery.

Besides that, Providence has delectable gourmet meals, food tours, and beautiful seaside accommodations.

Suggested duration: 5 to 7 days

Weather: Rhode Island is brimming with activity all year round. That said, summer is the peak tourism season. In addition, its winters are mild at 21 to 36°F, while summer temperatures range from 63 to 81°F.

Vermont

Scenic Vermont has a fine blend of glacial mountains, coastal towns, and evergreen forests. You can ski or snowboard in winter and warm up next to hotel fireplaces afterward. In the summer, the Green Mountain State offers honeymooners ideal weather for hiking and biking.

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Skiing on Stowe mountain

Vermont’s most popular ski town is Stowe. You will love its hiking trails and ski slopes. Then there is Woodstock, a charming town center renowned for its maple syrup. Burlington, on the other hand, has lots of parks and beaches. Lake Champlain is its piece de resistance from the Revolutionary War.

Suggested duration: 5 to 7 days

Weather: Vermont is most beautiful in Autumn as orange and red hues blanket mountain foliage. Vermont’s summers are warm, at 81°F. Winters are cold, with January temperatures dropping to 27°F

What Types of Accommodations Are Available in New England?

New England has five-star luxury hotels, boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest rooms. Unique getaway options include glamping spots, tree houses, rustic cabins in the woodlands, houseboats, and farm stays.

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Concord Colonial Inn in Massachusetts

What Is the Best Way to Travel to New England?

Out-of-state honeymooners can travel to New England by air. The Boston-Logan International Airport is its biggest airport. However, while it has various flight options, it is also hectic. Therefore, you will find more favorable airfare deals in smaller airports, including T.F. Green or Bradley International Airport.

Traveling Within New England

Whether you fly into Boston-Logan International or a smaller airport, you can move around by car, bus, or train. Rental cars are the most popular option since they provide freedom of movement.

You could also hail a taxi, Lyft, or Uber when honeymooning in bustling cities like Boston or Portland.

What to Pack For a Honeymoon in New England

Pack comfort athleisure hiking and walking wear when traveling to New England. Pack swimwear as well if you plan to visit the coastal towns.

4 Local Foods to Try While Honeymooning in New England

New England is renowned for a few culinary specialties, including the following:

  • Clam chowder
  • Lobster rolls
  • Cream pies
  • Fresh maple syrup
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New England Clam Chowder

Is New England Safe for Travelers?

New England is a low-risk travel region. The locals may come off as “cold” initially, but they are very friendly once you’re conversing.

As you would everywhere, be cautious of your belongings on public transit and do not carry large amounts of money.

Catherine

Catherine, the hopeless romantic, planned her own honeymoon with her husband. It was fantastic. Since then, she’s always willing and excited to share tips on how to have the most memorable post-nuptial vacation.

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