Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, Maine
With everything from coastal hiking paths and the challenging Beehive Trail to canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on Jordan Pond, Acadia has everything your family could want in a summer vacation to Maine. You’ll be in awe from the moment you arrive (be sure to stop at the overlooks along Park Loop Road!) to the moment you have to leave (though you absolutely won’t want to). While you’re in the area, visit the picturesque town of Bar Harbor, known for its streets lined with boutiques, cute coffee shops, cafes, historic bars, and restaurants—it’s truly some of the best vibes New England has to offer.
Looking for a place to stay? Salt Cottages is the closest resort to Acadia and a lovely place to call home base. Mira Monte Inn and Suites, Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, and Acadia Inn are a few of our other favorites.
Mystic Seaport Museum
This maritime museum in Mystic, Connecticut has a great mix of family fun, education, and opportunities for exploration. They believe the sea connects us all, whether through tales of immigration, cherished family narratives, sailing and boating, or transformative experiences at the museum. Explore the exhibitions, historic village, collections, and working shipyard, or by getting out on the water in a museum boat—there’s no going wrong here!
Stay nearby at one of our favorites: The Whaler’s Inn, Steamboat Inn, Captain’s Mansion, Hilton Mystic, or Inn at Harbor Hill Marina.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Want to experience the best views in New England? No matter the season, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is not only one of the world’s great rail adventures, it’s also an exhilarating journey through history, technology, and nature. Known as an engineering marvel of the Industrial Revolution, the Cog has been making its dramatic ascent through three climate zones to the 6288’ summit of the highest peak in the Northeast since 1869.
Stay in Jackson, North Conway, or Bretton Woods to experience small town charm nearby Mount Washington. Here are a few of our top recommendations: The Wentworth in Jackson, The Inn at Whitney’s Farm in Jackson, Stonehurst Manor in North Conway, White Mountain Hotel and Resort in North Conway, and Omni Bretton Arms Inn in Bretton Woods.
Museum of Science
Boston’s Museum of Science is as inspiring as it is thought-provoking. With exhibits about the Arctic, fossils, human life, art, animals, and even AI, this museum is all about having fun while learning something new and meaningful. Check out their themed weekends and special programming as you plan your trip—you wouldn't want to miss something especially interesting to your kiddos. Once your head is spinning with cool facts, set out to discover all the city of Boston has to offer. Happy exploring!
Boston has so many wonderful places to stay, including Beacon Hill Hotel, Colonnade Hotel, Hotel AKA Back Bay, and Boston Yacht Haven Inn and Marina.
About New England Inns and Resorts
New England summers have a unique magic to them. Regardless of if this is your 40th in the area or you’re visiting for the first time, New England always has something new to show you and your family. Ready to make some memories that’ll last you a lifetime?
New England Inns and Resorts was founded in 1907 and has been devoted to providing unforgettable experiences ever since. With over 300 hotels, inns, and resorts located across New England, we support exceptional hospitality with a dedication to keeping it local at every location.