The New England aesthetic is quintessentially charming. Picture white steepled churches rising from dense thickets, nautical lighthouses perched on rocky coastlines, and red wooden bridges leading to roadside farm stands and horse pastures. It’s almost too picturesque to believe—yet this region always lives up to its reputation. For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the abundance of places to stay and things to do makes it easy to plan a memorable trip.
Geographically, the region comprises Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, with Boston as its largest city. If you’re drawn to the ocean, Maine’s cozy coastline is unbeatable, as is the tiny island of Nantucket with its shingled cottages. If you prefer mountains and the scent of pine, head for the leafy landscapes of Vermont. Wherever you go in New England, a romantic ambiance is sure to follow. Here are some of the most compelling destinations to visit right now.
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Craving an exclusive coastal village experience? Watch Hill is a favorite for its gorgeous beaches, fine dining, and undeniable charm. Couples can enjoy nautical views from the town’s 1735 lighthouse, take a sunset stroll along the Napatree Point Conservation Area, and visit the Flying Horse Carousel, considered by many to be the country’s oldest. For accommodations, the Ocean House is a legendary oceanfront resort with accolades that “speak for themselves,” as one Vogue writer noted. Its signature suites epitomize romance with fireplaces and expansive terraces. While popular in summer, Watch Hill also makes for a perfect off-season retreat for couples seeking a slower pace.
Barnard, Vermont
With a population of fewer than 1,000, Barnard is ideal for city dwellers looking to escape the noise. Everything about this quaint town is romantic, from its history dating back to the 1700s to its vast, wild landscapes. Couples eager to disconnect should consider Twin Farms, an award-winning luxury retreat set on 300 acres of private countryside. It features 28 individually designed cottages and suites, and offers an all-inclusive experience with evening cocktails and canapés, plus seasonal activities like sledding, fly fishing, and canoeing.
Kennebunkport, Maine
While charming year-round, Kennebunkport transforms into an amorous wonderland each February for its month-long Paint the Town Red celebration. Embrace the Valentine’s spirit as shops, restaurants, and accommodations offer romance packages, special dining experiences, and sales. Stay at the White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection, where you can enjoy a wine and cheese pairing class in the property’s cellar or pick up artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from The Port Box Company. Spend the day antique shopping, then dine at Chez Rosa, an intimate French bistro set in a barn.
Litchfield County, Connecticut
In 2021, Vogue called Litchfield County “the perfect weekend getaway.” Five years later, it’s only gotten better. In the town of Litchfield, The Abner and Belden House & Mews offer exquisite stays in a historic setting. For a country retreat, the bucolic Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Collection, is set on 58 acres and provides a serene escape.The town of Bantam is also worth a visit for Arethusa Farm, a working dairy run by two former Manolo Blahnik executives. They operate three popular spots in town: the fine-dining restaurant Arethusa al Tavolo, which focuses on “seed to table” cuisine, and the breakfast and lunch café Arethusa al Mano, known for homemade doughnuts—think cinnamon, cold brew, and Bantam cream—plus a special cookie of the month.
Lenox, Massachusetts
Nestled in the scenic Berkshires, the small town of Lenox is perfect for couples who want a blend of nature and culture. From New York City, you can take the seasonal Amtrak Berkshire Flyer from Penn Station, which takes about four hours (it runs from late June to early September). Stay at 33 Main for a downtown experience, or book a wellness retreat at Miraval or Canyon Ranch. Browse the shops on Main Church Street—including MacKimmie Co., known for its cashmere blankets—then visit Edith Wharton’s former home, The Mount. For dinner and drinks, Firefly is a longtime favorite, while Olde Heritage Tavern is great for casual beers and bar bites.
Woodstock, Vermont
Instead of the crowds in Stowe, try Woodstock for a romantic winter getaway full of snowy adventures. Try snowmobiling, hire a snowshoe guide, or take a ski lesson at Saskadena Ski Resort. Book a room at the Woodstock Inn & Resort, and after a day outdoors, unwind at the inn’s spa with a sauna, whirlpool, or their Signature Experience treatment.
North Adams, Massachusetts
Art-loving couples should plan a trip to North Adams. This northern Berkshires town is home to MASS MoCA, the largest contemporary art museum in the country, featuring works by artists like James Turrell and Louise Bourgeois. After exploring the galleries, hit the trails for some fresh mountain air—the Cascades Trail is a local favorite. Grab a drink at Bright Ideas Brewing, then check into a suite at Tourists, a riverside hotel with just 46 rooms, a cocktail lounge, and a restaurant set in an 1813 farmhouse called The Airport Rooms.
Newport, Rhode Island
If you love the Gilded Age, Newport’s historic mansions are a must-see. This elegant city on Aquidneck Island is home to nearly a dozen impressive estates from that era, including The Breakers, an Italian Renaissance-style palace that’s now a museum. You and your partner can cruise along the scenic 10-mile Ocean Drive, stroll the breathtaking Cliff Walk, take a trolley tour of the town, and visit local wineries and breweries. For lodging, choose The Vanderbilt, Auberge Collection for a historic downtown mansion; The Chanler at Cliff Walk for Gilded Age grandeur; or the waterfront Gardiner House for a boutique stay.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is one of New England’s most iconic getaways—a charming island and former whaling town that inspired Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick. You’ll fall for its cobblestone streets, family-owned shops, sandy beaches, and distinctive gray-shingled homes. Summer is the busiest season (when lines for the famous Juice Bar stretch down the block), but the island has year-round appeal—Vogue even published a fall guide. Stay at The White Elephant or The Summer House and discover the timeless charm that has captivated visitors for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about planning a romantic escape in New England
Planning Timing
Q When is the best time to visit New England for a romantic getaway
A Each season is magical Fall is famous for foliage Winter is perfect for cozy fireside retreats and skiing Spring offers blooming gardens and fewer crowds Summer is ideal for coastal towns and lakes
Q How far in advance should we book
A For peak seasons book 69 months in advance especially for soughtafter inns For other times 23 months is usually safe
Q Are there any hidden gem destinations that arent as crowded
A Absolutely Consider the quieter regions like the Berkshires in Massachusetts the Lakes Region of New Hampshire the coast of Maine north of Portland or the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont
Destinations Activities
Q We love the coast Where should we go
A For classic charm Newport RI For a working fishing village vibe Mystic CT or Kennebunkport ME For dramatic scenery and lobster shacks Acadia National Park area in Maine
Q Were looking for a cozy mountain retreat Any recommendations
A Vermont is perfect for this Look into the Stowe or Woodstock areas for charming villages covered bridges and beautiful mountain backdrops The White Mountains of New Hampshire are also stunning
Q What are some unique romantic activities we can do
A Take a scenic train ride go on a lighthouse tour book a couples spa treatment at a historic inn take a sunset sail or go on a guided stargazing tour in a dark sky park
Accommodations
Q Whats better for romance a big hotel or a small bed and breakfast
A It depends on your style BBs offer personalized service homemade breakfast and often more intimate historic settings Hotels offer more privacy onsite restaurants and amenities like pools