Budget-Friendly Road Trip Guide to New England

From the charming streets of Portland, Maine, to the enchanting shores of Mystic, Connecticut, New England's fascinating history, beautiful nature, and family-friendly entertainment make it an ideal region in the US for a fall road trip.

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Appalachian Mountains, with peaks reaching over 4000ft, you'll traverse winding trails and discover breathtaking vistas. Along the way, indulge in the region's renowned culinary delights and cozy accommodations, all without breaking the bank. Check the guidance!

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine: Where Lobster Isn't the Only Draw

Portland, Maine may be the state's biggest city, but its charm lies in more than just its size. With rugged coastlines, hidden beaches, and the quaint Old Port district, there's something for everyone here. Don't miss the iconic Portland Head Light, surrounded by the sprawling Fort Williams Park—a perfect spot for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the beach.

For a dose of history, visit the Tate House Museum, offering a glimpse into Maine's colonial past, or explore the Portland Museum of Art, showcasing works spanning centuries.

High Peaks Region, Maine

Just a short drive from Portland, you come to High Peaks Region. This family-friendly area boasts ten peaks towering over 4000 feet, along with breathtaking glacial lakes and rivers. Embark on a scenic drive along routes like High Peaks and Grafton Notch for stunning mountain views. Enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking, or hit the slopes at Sugarloaf and Saddleback Mountain ski resorts. After a day of adventure, refuel in Stratton with hearty meals at the Looney Moose Café or White Wolf Inn and Restaurant. Stay at the Mountain View Motel for cozy accommodations and scenic vistas, perfect for budget-conscious travelers and pet lovers alike.

Northeast Kingdom, Vermont

Driving west to reach the remote, northernmost region of Vermont. Nestled against the Canadian border and the upper Connecticut River, this area is known for its tranquil beauty. Covering one-fifth of the state's land, it boasts over 200 lakes and ponds, surrounded by dense forests and eight state parks.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Kingdom Heritage Trail system, including the Bluff Mountain Community and Gore Mountain Trail. For more excitement, visitors can marvel at Troy’s Big Falls, featuring an impressive undammed waterfall with an 80-foot sheer cliff face.

Seacoast and Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Departing from the Northeast Kingdom, head south on I-93, veering left in Manchester, New Hampshire, to reach the state's petite coastline.

This area stretches from Maine and encompasses the Isles of Shoals and Star Islands, enjoying a captivating blend of culture and maritime adventures. While the Seacoast region spans 18 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, Hampton Beach stands out for family-friendly fun and pristine white sands.

Portsmouth, nestled near the mouth of the Piscataqua River, holds the distinction of being the nation’s third-oldest city and serves as a gateway to living history experiences at the Strawbery Banke Museum, the American Independence Museum, and the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire.

Falmouth, Massachusetts

Travel south on I-495 to bypass Boston (or make a pit stop if you have the time) and reach Cape Cod, landing in the charming town of Falmouth, Massachusetts.

This designated Preserve America community was once home to Katharine Lee Bates, the esteemed author of "America the Beautiful." Beyond its rich history, this tranquil corner of southwest Cape Cod boasts over 70 miles of ocean shores, eight unique villages, and the picturesque Shining Sea Bike Path, meandering nearly 11 miles through farms, ponds, cranberry bogs, and salt marshes before reaching Woods Hole village. Visit Old Silver Beach for a dip in the serene blue waters and soak in breathtaking views of Buzzards Bay.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Follow the coastline heading westward until you reach this charming and eccentric seaside surf spot in Rhode Island. Here, you'll discover access to quaint state park beaches like Roger Wheeler and Salty Brine, where you can observe boats, local fishermen, and the consistently lively waves of Narragansett Town Beach.

Try your hand at surfing with a lesson from Warm Winds Surf Shop, or simply unwind on the sandy shores. Alternatively, embark on a maritime adventure by hopping aboard the Block Island Ferry, where you can explore attractions such as the Point Judith Light, a historic lighthouse erected in 1857.

Given the region's rich history, be sure to visit the 23-foot Narragansett Indian Monument, carved from a single Douglas fir tree along Kingstown Road.

Mystic Seaport, Connecticut

Contrary to popular belief, the beloved coming-of-age film "Mystic Pizza" wasn’t actually filmed at its namesake restaurant in this charming seaside town, situated less than an hour west of Narragansett on US Route 1. However, don't let that deter you from stopping by for a slice and a selfie while exploring the rest of this picturesque village nestled along the Mystic River.

Bluff Point State Park spans over 800 acres of lush terrain, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Meanwhile, the historic district, which straddles the river, boasts attractions for all ages, including the still-operating Bascule Bridge constructed in 1920.

For marine enthusiasts, the popular Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is a must-visit, recently earning certification from the American Humane Conservation. Here, you can marvel at sea lions, penguins, and even sharks. Alternatively, the Mystic Seaport Museum delves into maritime history, featuring a working preservation shipyard and a meticulously recreated 19th-century village.