Looking for Amazing Destinations in New England?
As another crazy busy summer comes to a close, I realize I have a LOT of corresponding to catch up with. So, expect some newsy updates coming later this month! But first, we had some questions come up about what to do when visiting the region. In case anyone else is wondering, here are some good places to include in your plans, and pro tips for getting the most out if them!
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Especially if you have plans to attend our upcoming lectureship in October, it's the perfect time to add in additional days to your itinerary and see the region. This is when New England really shines! Here's a summary of family-friendly activities, including some free options, available in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. This is a really popular place in the fall, and for good reason. It's best to make sure you have accommodations booked well in advance of your trip. Because of leaf-peepers, you're going to run into fully-booked establishments if you try to get a room last minute. Even campgrounds can fill up!
Pro tips: If you have stroller-age kids, definitely bring the stroller. Also, because the weather is highly unpredictable, dress in layers! I recommend wearing short sleeves on all your excursions, but bring both sweaters and water-proof layers. Everywhere. All the time.
The Freedom Trail (Boston, MA)
This educational, historically rich experience is one you won't want to miss. This is a free activity in Boston that includes 16 stops. Visit them all, or be selective based on your available time-frame. Some of the historical landmarks require the purchase of entrance tickets, and others are open for free to the public. When little ones need a break from the walking, stop to take a food break, or just wrap up the tour where you are and call it a day.
Start at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center at 139 Tremont Street. Follow the red brick line embedded in the sidewalks and streets for free to enjoy a self-guided tour at your own pace. There are plenty of places to eat along the route, like historic Faneuil Hall, as well as lots of mom-and-pop cafes and shops.
Official Guided Tours: Led by 18th-century costumed guides via the Freedom Trail Foundation, departing from Boston Common. Tickets cost $17 for adults and $8 for children.
Storyland (Glen, NH)
The rides and attractions at Storyland target kids ages 2-12, so it's a good option for younger families. While David and I have never been to this amusement park, one of the families in our congregation took Silas and Olivia when they were little. They made some really fun memories! Several families we know here have made repeat trips, so that tells me it's worth checking out. The attractions seem to be a mix of mother-goose and off-brand Disney themes. You'll find a mix of peaceful rides for little ones, more thrilling rides for bigger kids, and several character meet-and-greets.
This is a trip we've made a few times. The Live Animal Exhibit Trail and hiking trails are open daily. "This three‑quarter‑mile, self‑guided trail follows a packed gravel path past Black Bears, Bobcats, Mountain Lions, River Otters, raptors, and more, along with hands-on exhibits that explore their habitats, adaptations, and the changing New Hampshire landscape. Plan about two and a half hours to wander, watch, and discover at your own pace as you get nearer to nature with family and friends." This is an educational adventure that outdoor-lovers will find particularly thrilling during the beautiful fall season.
The coastline is full of breath-taking views, dotted with lighthouses along the shore. U.S. Route 1 follows Maine's coast and boasts a number of interesting stops. One spot we've visited a few times only requires about 1.5 hours drive time from central NH. This incredible, serene location is a must-see if you love the ocean. Check out one of the most iconic lighthouses in New England (and grab some really good ice cream). Visit the beaches of York for some awe-inspiring scenery and photo opportunities. But probably don't attempt going for a swim... it will be frigid. I mean really, really cold. (No seriously... we've had visitors just run and jump in. Nothing dry to change into even. It's the northeast, folks - you're not going to "warm up in the sun" after.)
For another fantastic route full of gorgeous vistas, take the Kancamagus Scenic Byway through New Hampshire to experience the time-honored tradition of "leaf-peeping." Hiking trails and campgrounds can be found along "The Kanc" offering an inspiring experience in the White Mountains National Forest. This adventure is available to anyone willing to just drive around and enjoy some tremendous beauty in nature. Stop by a sugar shack to try our famous candied maple products and pick up a bottle of syrup. Find an apple orchard and pick your own apples. Literally anywhere you drive will have unforgettable views, charming New England towns, history, culture, and good food.
Many farms are also open to the public, inviting you to explore corn mazes and visit their barnyard animals. The farm-to-table experience is alive and well in New England, so plan to stop in and enjoy the bounty in a charming farmhouse restaurant.
To get the most of out of leaf-peeping in these amazing New England destinations, check out the Peak Fall Foliage Map to see where the colors will be the most vibrant during your visit.
The Basin, Flume Gorge, and Lost River Gorge
If your family is more active, loves outdoor adventures, and wants to pack in some of the best experiences, these are always a hit. The Basin, a free stop near the Notch on I-95, is a leisurely walk of a hike, ending in a very cool rock formation with water swirling among the sand and stones. The nearby Flume Gorge is a paid excursion, with wooden stairs and boardwalks. If you're up for a more challenging adventure and you're not afraid of heights, this one is fun. But advance reservations are recommended! Finally, Lost River Gorge is a fantastic hike among rocks and caves, with some optional tight squeezes included.
I'll add other posts later on for winter and spring activities. For now, thanks for the questions! It gives me a better idea of what is interesting to share. Thanks for the support, and prayers on our behalf. There are many other ways people are contributing to the work up here, and we thank God for you.
In His service,
David & Keeley
P.S., If you have questions, leave a comment below! We love to fill people in on the work, activities to enjoy in NH, and more.
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