New England is defrosting and we need some exciting places to go. As much as I love winter, by the time March hits I am so DONE with the cold weather. Even though we still have to deal with mud season, rain, and irregular temperatures, it’s a sure sign that we are on our way to flowers and warmer weather.
Some of my very favorite destinations to visit in the spring offer a quintessential New England experience between the blooming flowers, coastal charm and vibrant small towns. While there are hundreds of amazing places to visit in the spring, we will be focusing on Rockport, MA, Cape Cod, MA, Burlington, VT, and Newport, RI.
Now let’s dive into some of the best places to visit in New England in the spring.
Rockport, Massachusetts
This is the number one place I recommend people visit when they are going to Boston and want to go somewhere outside the city. It’s simply stunning. Rockport, Massachusetts can get pretty crowded in the summer due to its popularity, so spring is a great opportunity to avoid the crowds.
Rockport is within the Cape Ann peninsula and is known for its stunning coastal scenery, vibrant arts community, and historic fishing heritage. One of its most iconic landmarks is Motif No. 1, a red fishing shack that has become a symbol of New England’s maritime culture and a favorite subject for artists. It’s also where a famous scene from the movie The Proposal was filmed featuring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds!
Things to do in Rockport, MA
Walk the Downtown Area
Rockports’ charming downtown is the perfect place to explore on foot, with its cobblestone streets, colorful storefronts, and harbor views. Strolling through Bearskin Neck, you’ll discover locally-owned shops, cafés, and art galleries, each adding to the town’s quintessential New England charm.
Check Out the Art Galleries
Rockport has a rich artistic heritage, attracting painters and sculptors for generations. Stop by the Rockport Art Association & Museum, one of the oldest art organizations in the country, or browse the many independent galleries showcasing local and contemporary works.
Visit the Local Shops
A must when you’re here. From nautical souvenirs to handmade jewelry and home décor, Rockport’s boutique shops offer a unique shopping experience. Explore Tuck’s Candy Factory for locally made sweets, or visit The Pewter Shop, a historic store selling handcrafted pewter gifts.
Find Motif #1
A trip to Rockport isn’t complete without seeing Motif No. 1, the town’s most famous landmark. This bright red fishing shack on Bradley Wharf is said to be the most painted building in America! A true New England icon, beautiful in all seasons.
Go Whale Watching
Spring is an excellent time for whale watching, as migrating humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes return to the waters off Cape Ann. Book a tour with 7 Seas Whale Watch or Captain Bill & Sons Whale Watch in nearby Gloucester for an amazing marine adventure.
Go Kayaking
Paddle along Rockport’s scenic coastline for a peaceful and picturesque way to explore the area. Rent a kayak from North Shore Kayak Outdoor Center and venture into the quiet coves and harbors, taking in stunning views of the rocky shoreline and marine life.
Visit Front Beach
For a relaxing beach day, head to Front Beach, a small yet beautiful sandy retreat perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. Located just steps from downtown, this beach is ideal for families and offers gorgeous sunrise views.
Hike at Halibut Point
One of my favorite places to visit every time I’m in Rockport. Outdoor lovers will appreciate Halibut Point State Park, where rugged coastal trails wind through an old granite quarry, leading to panoramic ocean views. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Mount Agamenticus in Maine and the Isles of Shoals off the New Hampshire coast.
Stay at Addison Choate Hotel
Addison Choate is a classy, intimate, coastal New England experience with all the luxuries you need from plush king beds, marble-covered bathrooms, comfortable robes and bed in breakfast. I don’t believe a stay to Rockport is complete without staying here as the reputation, hospitality and proximity are truly unmatched!
Restaurants
Brother’s Brew Coffee Shop
Kickstart your morning at Brother’s Brew Coffee Shop with a fresh-brewed coffee and one of the best homemade donuts on Cape Ann. This cozy café is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious breakfast options.
Roy Moore Lobster Co.
For a classic New England seafood experience, Roy Moore Lobster Co. is the place to go. Grab a seat on the deck and enjoy a freshly steamed lobster, oysters, or a legendary lobster roll with a harbor view.
The Fish Shack Bar & Restaurant
This casual spot serves up classic seafood dishes with a side of ocean views. From fried clams to clam chowder, everything here is fresh and flavorful, making it a great stop after a day of exploring.
Fleur Cuisine Harborside
Offering a fusion of French and coastal cuisine, Fleur Cuisine Harborside provides an upscale yet welcoming dining experience. Their seafood-forward menu highlights the freshest local ingredients with beautifully plated dishes.
Feather & Wedge
A stylish bistro in the heart of Rockport, Feather & Wedge is known for its seasonal dishes, craft cocktails, and live music. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, steak, or a creative small plate, this is an excellent choice for a night out.
My Place by The Sea
For an unparalleled oceanfront dining experience, My Place by The Sea offers gourmet dishes with spectacular views of the Atlantic. Their menu features locally sourced seafood, vibrant flavors, and elegant presentation, making it a perfect spot for a special evening.
The Ice Cream Store
End your day on a sweet note with a visit to this beloved ice cream shop. With a variety of flavors and homemade waffle cones, this spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a classic summer treat by the water.
Burlington, Vermont
What a special place. Burlington, Vermont is one of those overlooked towns in New England but happens to be one of the liveliest places. It’s also in my top foodie spots as it has some of the best cuisine I’ve had. We came here during a warm spring weekend and it was so much fun between the outdoor scene, downtown shops, restaurants and breweries.
Burlington is best known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and stunning location on the shores of Lake Champlain. As Vermont’s largest city, it offers a mix of history with modern culture, along the bustling Church Street Marketplace. This pedestrian-only street is lined with local boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, and live street performances. Burlington offers so much to do outdoors including biking along the Burlington Greenway, kayaking on the lake, and exploring nearby hiking trails in the Green Mountains.
The city is also home to the University of Vermont, adding a youthful energy and a commitment to sustainability. Known for its craft beer culture, Burlington has legendary breweries like Foam Brewers and The Alchemist, making it a top destination for beer lovers! We love breweries because we can always take our golden retriever, Morgan with us.
Things to do in Burlington, VT
The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River
For nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts, The Salmon Hole on the Winooski River is a hidden gem in Burlington. This scenic spot is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, especially during the salmon and trout runs. Even if you’re not casting a line, the area offers peaceful walking trails and stunning river views, making it a great place to connect with nature.
Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site
Step back in time at the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, the former residence of Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen. This historic site offers guided tours where you can learn about Allen’s role in Vermont’s early history and explore the beautifully preserved 18th-century home. The surrounding parkland also features scenic trails along the Winooski River, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Church Street Marketplace
No trip to Burlington is complete without visiting Church Street Marketplace, the city’s lively, pedestrian-only shopping district. Lined with boutiques, artisan shops, and farm-to-table restaurants, this four-block stretch is the perfect place to shop for local goods, grab a coffee, or people-watch. Street performers and seasonal events add to the marketplace’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination.
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
If you’re looking for the best farm-to-table dining in Burlington, The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is the place to go. This cozy yet modern eatery specializes in locally sourced meats, artisan cheeses, and craft beer. Known for their grass-fed burgers and extensive beer list, it’s the perfect spot for a casual but elevated dining experience that showcases the best of Vermont’s local flavors.
Foam Brewers
Beer lovers won’t want to miss Foam Brewers, one of Burlington’s most beloved craft breweries. Located on the waterfront, this brewery is known for its rotating selection of hazy IPAs, sours, and experimental small-batch brews. With its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and stunning views of Lake Champlain, Foam is the perfect place to unwind with a fresh pour.
Waterfront Park
For the best views in Burlington, head to Waterfront Park, a stunning green space along Lake Champlain. Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or watch a breathtaking sunset, this park offers panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains and easy access to the Burlington Greenway bike path. In the warmer months, it’s also home to outdoor concerts and festivals, making it a lively spot to soak in Burlington’s natural beauty.
Newport, Rhode Island
A place I wish I could spend so much more time in! Spring is a great season to explore Newport, RI, as the city awakens with vibrant colors and pleasant coastal breezes. The iconic Gilded Age mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House, are less crowded, allowing you to fully appreciate the architectural grandeur and lush gardens in bloom. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of ideal temperatures for strolling the famous Cliff Walk, a scenic 3.5-mile trail that showcases Newport’s dramatic coastline and historic estates. Spring also marks the start of Newport’s sailing season, filling the harbor with energy as boats set sail against the backdrop of stunning ocean views.
Things to do in Newport, RI
Stunning Beaches
Newport is home to several beautiful beaches in close proximity to each other, including Easton’s Beach and Gooseberry Beach.
Historical Mansions
Famous for its Gilded Age mansions, Newport is also home to the summer homes for some of America’s wealthiest families including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff.
Scenic Cliff Walk
This 3.5-mile public walkway combines the natural beauty of the coastline with the architectural history of Newport’s famous mansions. It’s a perfect place for a stroll with amazing ocean views!
Festivals and Events
Summer in Newport is packed with events like the Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival, Newport Folk Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, and the Newport International Boat Show. I attended the Oyster & Chowder Festival this year and it did not disappoint with fresh oysters, craft cocktails, and live music.
Delicious Seafood
There are a ton of restaurants offering everything from casual clam shacks to fine dining experiences, where you can enjoy lobsters, clams, oysters, and more. Favorites: @thereefnewport @flosclamshacks
Charming Downtown
The downtown area is full of boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and historic buildings. Thames Street, in particular, is vibrant and perfect for a leisurely day of shopping and dining.
Hotel Viking
Staying at the historic Hotel Viking adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any Newport visit. It was my second time here and I felt right at home! The hotel opened in 1926 and is located on Bellevue Avenue, a close walk to downtown. Here you can enjoy the rooftop bar with stunning views, an award-winning spa, and fine dining at One Bellevue.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Ahh, my happy place. Spring is the perfect time to visit Cape Cod, offering a peaceful escape before the summer crowds arrive. With mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and stunning coastal views, this season is ideal for exploring charming seaside towns like Chatham, Provincetown, and Hyannis. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, take scenic bike rides along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, or stroll along quiet beaches to spot migrating shorebirds. Spring also brings seasonal events, from whale watching tours to art festivals, making it a vibrant time to experience the Cape’s natural beauty and rich culture.
Things to do on Cape Cod, MA
Cape Cod Bagel
No lie, one of the best bagels I’ve had in Massachusetts. Cape Cod Bagel is known for its freshly baked bagels, homemade cream cheese, and rich coffee. It’s a must-visit down the Cape!
Chatham Pier Fish Market
For some of the freshest seafood on the Cape, stop by Chatham Pier Fish Market, where you can watch local fishermen unload their daily catch. As part of an influencer trip, I got a behind-the-scenes tour of the market and learned so much about the process and freshness of Massahcusetts lobsters. It’s truly one of the best places to grab seafood with lobster rolls, fried clams, or clam chowder, all while taking in the picturesque harbor views.
The Knob
LOVE it here and have visited in all seasons. If you’re looking for a scenic nature walk, The Knob is a must-visit. This short but rewarding trail leads to breathtaking panoramic views of Buzzards Bay, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape or a sunset picnic. The trail is surrounded by lush coastal greenery, creating a picture-perfect Cape Cod experience.
Grays Beach
One of Cape Cod’s most stunning natural spots, Grays Beach features an iconic boardwalk that stretches over the salt marshes, offering spectacular views at sunrise and sunset. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll, birdwatching, or capturing beautiful photos of the ever-changing coastal landscape.
Downtown Chatham
Charming and full of classic New England character, Downtown Chatham is a great place to wander through boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Grab an ice cream, browse unique coastal-inspired gifts, or simply soak in the quaint atmosphere of one of the Cape’s most picturesque towns.
Pelham House Resort
For a luxurious spring getaway, Pelham House Resort offers stunning oceanfront accommodations with modern coastal decor. If you want to just experience it for fun, grab brunch at their rooftop restaurant for amazing views.
Ocean Edge Resort
A top-tier resort for relaxation and adventure, Ocean Edge Resort boasts a private beach, a golf course, and access to the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail. This historic resort offers a more historic and rustic experience with a side of coastal vibes.