The New England aesthetic is as quintessentially charming as they come. White steeple churches poking up from dense thicket, nautical lighthouses balanced on rocky coastlines, and red wooden bridges that lead to roadside farm stands and horse pastures. It’s almost too picturesque to believe—but alas, this region of the US always manages to live up to its reputation. And for couples in pursuit of the best romantic getaways in New England, the abundance of places to stay and things to do makes it easy to craft a memorable itinerary.
With regards to geography, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont are the key players (with Boston being the largest city in the region). If the ocean is calling out to you, Maine’s cozy coastline can’t be beat, nor can the tiny island of Nantucket with its shingled cottages. Or if you prefer to surround yourself with mountainous terrain and the intoxicating aroma of pine trees, steer for the leafy landscapes of Vermont. Wherever you end up, if it’s in New England, a romantic ambience will follow. Below, the most compelling destinations in the area to visit right now.
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Craving that exclusive coastal village experience? Rhode Island’s Watch Hill is a favorite for its gorgeous beaches, fine dining, and all-around charm. Couples can enjoy the nautical views at the town’s 1735-era lighthouse, take a sunset stroll along Napatree Point Conservation Area, and even check out the Flying Horse Carousel (considered by many to be the country’s oldest). As for accommodations, Ocean House is a legendary resort with impressive accolades that, as one Vogue writer suggests, “speak for themselves.” As its name implies, the property enjoys an oceanfront setting and its signature suites epitomize romance with details like fireplaces and expansive terraces. Unsurprisingly, this is a popular region during the summer months, but Watch Hill also makes an excellent off-season trip for couples who prefer a slower pace.
Barnard, Vermont
With a teeny tiny population of less than 1,000, the New England town of Barnard is ideal for city dwellers who need to escape the noise. Everything about this quaint region is romantic, from the centuries-old history (Barnard dates back to the 1700s) to the vast, wild landscapes. Couples eager to go off the grid should plan a trip to the award-winning Twin Farms. This luxurious retreat sits on 300 acres of private countryside and has 28 cottages and suites, each decorated individually by leading interior designers. The property is all-inclusive and pampers guests with thoughtful amenities like cocktails and canapés each evening and an array of activities like sledding, fly fishing, and canoeing (depending on the season).
Kennebunkport, Maine
While Kennebunkport is charming year-round, February brings a month-long celebration of love, transforming this coastal town into an amorous wonderland for its Paint the Town Red celebration. Give into the Valentine’s Day spirit as shops, restaurants, and accommodations all partake in the festivities, offering romance packages, special dining experiences, and red tag sales. Stay at the White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection, where you can take a wine and cheesing pairing class at the property’s wine cellar (or pick up a box of hand-selected artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from The Port Box Company). Relish a day of antique shopping, followed up by dinner at Chez Rosa, an intimate French bistro in a barn setting.
Litchfield County, Connecticut
In 2021, Vogue called Litchfield County “the perfect weekend getaway.” Five years later, it s only gotten better. Within the town of Litchfield itself, The Abner and Belden House Mews both offer exquisite stays in this historic bolthole. Those looking for a country retreat should take note of the bucolic Mayflower Inn Spa, Auberge Collection, which is set upon 58 acres and includes walking trails and a much-celebrated spa. The town of Bantam is also a must-visit thanks to Arethusa Farm, a working dairy farm run by two former Manolo Blahnik executives that operates three delicious eateries in town: The first is the restaurant Arethusa al Tavolo, which serves “seed to table” cuisine. Then, there’s their breakfast and lunch café Arethusa al Mano. They offer homemade doughnuts—cinnamon! cold brew! Bantam cream!—and a special cookie of the month.
Lenox, Massachusetts
Nestled in the scenic heart of the Berkshires, small-town Lenox is ideal for couples seeking a mix of nature and culture. If you’re coming from the city, hop on Amtrak’s Berkshire Flyer train that takes four hours to reach the region from Penn Station (runs late June to early September). Book a stay at 33 Main for an in-town experience, or head to Miraval or Canyon Ranch for a wellness-focused vacation. Hit the shops on Main Church Street—including MacKimmie Co, known for their cashmere blankets—before heading to Edith Wharton s former home, The Mount. As for dinner and drinks? Firefly is a perennial favorite, whereas Olde Heritage Tavern is great for a casual brew and bar bites.
Woodstock, Vermont
Skip the crowds in Stowe and head to Woodstock, a destination that elevates winter romance with a plethora of powdery adventures. Try snowmobiling for the first time, hire a snowshoe guide, or take a ski lesson at Saskadena Ski Resort. Reserve a room at the Woodstock Inn Resort, and after a day in the snow, relax at the inn’s Spa; breathe in the sauna, unwind in the whirlpool, and pamper yourselves with the Signature Experience.
North Adams, Massachusetts
Couples who spend their weekends chasing down the latest art openings should devise a romantic escape to North Adams. This northern Berkshires town is home to MASS MoCA, the largest contemporary art museum in the states, with works by artists like James Turrell and Louise Bourgeois. After a couple hours moseying around its galleries, hit the trails to breathe in that fresh mountain air (the Cascades Trail hike is a favorite route). Enjoy a drink at Bright Ideas Brewing, then check-in to a suite at Tourists. This riverside hotel offers just 46 rooms and has a cocktail lounge and restaurant set in an 1813 farmhouse called The Airport Rooms.
Newport, Rhode Island
If you’re a Gilded Age devotee, Newport’s illustrious mansions are probably already on your radar. But for those not yet acquainted, this elegant city on Aquidneck Island is home to nearly a dozen impressive homes dating back to this era, including The Breakers (an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo that is now a museum). You and your partner can zip along the scenic 10-mile Ocean Drive, meander the breathtaking Cliff Walk, hop on a charming trolley for a tour of town, and explore any one of Newport’s many wineries and breweries. For lodging, choose The Vanderbilt, Auberge Collection for a historic downtown mansion, The Chanler at Cliff Walk for palatial Gilded Age vibes, or the Gardiner House for a waterfront boutique hotel.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
There is perhaps no more famous New England getaway than Nantucket, Massachusetts—the quaint island and former whaling town that inspired Herman Melville s Moby Dick. Once you visit, you’ll understand why, with its cobblestone streets, mom-and-pop shops, sandy beaches, and distinctive “Nantucket gray” shingled homes. Summer is the high season—where lines for the Juice Bar stretch far out the door—but it also has plenty of year-round charm: Vogue wrote a whole guide to the island in the fall. Stay at The White Elephant or The Summer House, and fall in love with the whaling town the way so many have before.
