7 Most Romantic Getaways in New England

Falling in love deserves a celebration. And that's exactly why you and your sweetheart should plan a romantic getaway in New England. Whether it's your first trip together as a new couple or your hundredth escape as a married pair, taking a vacation is the ideal way to honor your affection for one another. 

Why New England? Spread across its six states are endless charming towns filled with places to find a little rest and relaxation, stunning views, and, of course, more than a few romantic hotels. Here are seven of the best romantic getaways in New England.

Lenox, Massachusetts

Make your way to Lenox in Berkshire County, a tiny enclave in western Massachusetts with just about 5,000 permanent residents. It's a place where peace and quiet are plentiful and the tourist crowds are replaced with endless natural vistas of the surrounding wide-open green spaces. 

In Lenox, couples can spend their days exploring small town landmarks like the Norman Rockwell Museum, dedicated to the life of one of America's greatest painters, and the Berkshire Botanical Garden, one of the oldest in the nation. And if you time your trip just right, you can catch a show at Tanglewood, featuring both local and world-renowned musicians. 

After a day of exploring, check into a romantic hotel like Seven Hills, a historic boutique property with 27 acres of land to roam. The hotel's 57 rooms all come with chic, minimalist decor and plush beds, and several even feature working fireplaces. Or, book a room at the 150-year-old Cornell Inn. Each room here is uniquely styled, so guests can choose one that best fits their personality. Tip: Don't miss its table-served breakfast each morning. For an even more intimate stay, try the Brook Farm Inn, which has just 15 rooms that each feel like a home away from home.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is never not romantic. From its island location and gilded mansions to its gorgeous ocean views and walkable streets you can stroll hand in hand, it's a place that beckons lovers.

For the ultimate romantic activity, take a walk down the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path with the ocean on one side and several of the famed Newport Mansions on the other. Then, tour one of the opulent homes — you can't go wrong with The Breakers. And in the afternoon, head to Newport Vineyards to taste the local varietals. 

You can dig into a few Newport-centric meals by booking a table at The White Horse Tavern, yet another historic institution in the neighborhood. It's been pouring drinks since 1673, making it one of the oldest operating bars in the world. Or, opt for more local flavor at The Lobster Bar, a casual spot that serves up delicious lobster (and divine sunset views over the water). 

As for where to spend the night, book a room at an inviting property like The Chanler, built inside a revamped 19th-century mansion that also happens to sit directly on the Cliff Walk. Also, check out the famed Castle Hill Inn, a Newport institution since 1875 with direct beach access. Or, live like American royalty for a few days with a stay at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, which was the former downtown mansion owned by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt.

Stowe, Vermont

Take in some serene mountain landscapes with your honey by heading to one of New England's prettiest towns, Stowe, Vermont. The community may be most famous for its ski resort, but it's a true all-season town thanks to its fantastic hiking and mountain biking routes and a fall foliage scene that can't be beat. 

In Stowe, spend time hiking or mountain biking at or around the ski resort in the summer and fall, explore a little mountain history at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, or try casting your line with an area fly fishing outfitter. Of course, you'll want to make your way to the mountain in the winter to cruise down the Front Four, or tackle easier trails like Toll Road for a smooth ride. 

For date night, make a reservation at Harrison's, an adorable spot in the center of Main Street, or go for a livelier meal at Whip Bar & Grill, which also makes some rather tasty signature drinks. 

Round out the romance with a stay at Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa and indulge in a couples massage that will have you both feeling anew. 

Washington, Connecticut

The rustic and charming community of Washington, Connecticut, is the place to downshift into the slow lane together. Come here to admire pastoral landscapes, see local blooms at the Hollister House Garden, and drink heritage farm wines at the Hopkins Vineyard. It's a quiet spot ideal for couples looking to unwind and take a break from the hustle and bustle back home.

In town, grab a bite at G.W. Tavern, an American pub with classics like a Cobb salad and chicken wings, or the Community Table, which focuses on locally sourced produce.

Get one last sense of renewal at the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection. The hotel is as cozy as they come, with plush bedding and New England country decor. It also has the added bonus of an in-depth wellness program, including everything from traditional treatments to health coaching so you can leave feeling better than when you arrived. 

Kennebunkport, Maine

Enjoy the seaside charm in Kennebunkport, a quaint beach town in southern Maine. The small town with a population under 4,000 is known for its slow pace, stunning beaches, and historic buildings. Stroll Gooch's Beach, a wide sandy stretch, and take a refreshing dip in the (chilly) ocean. Visitors can also embark on a local whale-watching adventure if the season is right. Follow it up with a visit to St. Ann's Episcopal Church, a stone chapel that's been in operation since 1892. 

Dine together on local seaside eats at Nunan's Lobster Hut, a tiny outpost doling out lobster, lobster, and more lobster in all its forms. For a candlelit dinner for two, make a reservation at Earth at Hidden Pond, a super-romantic spot with just a few tables serving locally sourced produce and, of course, more lobster.

Following your meal, check into Hidden Pond and grab two of its beach cruisers for a sunset ride around town. Or, see if you can snag a private cottage at The Cottages at Cabot Cove for a little more seclusion.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket may be an isolated island, but it's worth the effort to reach it for a romantic getaway. Take either the ferry or a short plane to get there and head straight to the beach if the weather permits. Many of the island's sandy stretches will delight — just be cautious, as the currents can get strong. Then, visit the Whaling Museum in town, see the Sankaty Head Lighthouse, and don't miss the Old Mill. 

Seek out a globally inspired meal at The Beet, which serves warm grain bowls and massive salads alongside fish and meat dishes. If you time your visit for the summer season, try Galley Beach, where the mussels are not to be missed. 

Though it's a small island, Nantucket is chock-full of stellar hotels, including The Wauwinet, a modern coastal escape with panoramic ocean views from its massive lawn, and Jared Coffin House, a landmark historic hotel oozing elegance from every antique furnishing. 

White Mountains, New Hampshire 

The White Mountains region is a bit more of a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. That's because the mountain range covers more than a quarter of the state of New Hampshire. It's a destination that will delight no matter the season, thanks to its verdant landscapes in spring and summer, breathtaking foliage come fall, and soft, powdery snow all winter long. 

In the warmer months, make your way to the mountains to hike or bike for a thrill with your partner — spots through Flume Gorge and Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves are top picks. Or, ease your way through the region on the antique Mount Washington Cog Railway. During the fall, there's one thing you must do: Drive the Kancamagus Highway, which feels like you're weaving through a kaleidoscope of fall colors. Then, return in the winter for skiing at places like Attitash and Loon Mountain. 

Pick a general area to visit before deciding where to eat, but to offer you an idea of what you can get here, check out Camp in Meredith, an Adirondack-style restaurant serving local comfort foods, or go for more experiential meals like the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train.  

Book a room at the Omni Mount Washington Resort to find a laundry list of on-site activities, from golf to spa to ski adventures and more. Or, choose a more boutique-style stay at The Inn at Thorn Hill, which also offers cottage accommodations so you can feel right at home.