Connecticut
What to Eat
Originally created in New Haven, Connecticut, apizza is known for its coal-fired thin crust, charred edges, large, round size, and high-quality toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, and clams. The term "apizza" (pronounced "ah-beets,” if you can believe it) is derived from the Neapolitan word "pizza." This local favorite is a must-try when venturing to Connecticut on a day trip or weekend getaway.
Ready to get your hands on a pie? Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven has been crafting Original New Haven style pizza for nearly 100 years, using the best ingredients on the best dough. It’s truly a legendary spot known for its coal-fired pizzas, especially the white clam pizza. Zuppardi’s Apizza in West Haven is also a traditional hotspot that draws a loyal following. Anthony Zuppardi’s children and grandchildren continue to operate the restaurant, working to provide the community with top-quality New Haven-style apizza.
What to Do
While you’re in the area, enjoy all that Connecticut has to offer by visiting Mystic Seaport, a well-respected maritime museum with historic ships, exhibits, and charming waterfront views or touring the Mark Twain House, the former home of the famous author in Hartford. You don't have to be a prospective student to enjoy Yale University’s picturesque campus in New Haven. Be sure to stop in the Yale University Art Gallery and the Peabody Museum of Natural History while you're there.
Where to Stay
Regardless of if you’re looking to stay at a classic hotel, seaside oasis, or spa and resort on the water, we know the perfect place to stay in the Constitution State. Start planning your Connecticut vacation or getaway by browsing our favorites when it comes to unique lodging, including resorts and hotels in CT.
Maine
What to Eat
When it comes to New England region foods, this is one of our favorites. Maine has a true claim to fame with their lobster rolls. Traditionally served cold and dressed in mayonnaise and spices, these creamy lobster rolls hit the spot on a summer day. It goes without saying that this lobster is always fresh, juicy, and served on a toasted yet fluffy (and likely homemade) roll.
There’s a hot debate in regards to the best lobster roll in the state, but we recommend South Thomaston’s McLoons Lobster Shack, a beloved go-to. The lobster roll comes in either a standard quarter-pounder or a hefty half-pounder on a bun that can barely contain all the tail, knuckle, and claw meat.
What to Do
A trip to Maine promises beautiful landscapes, starting with Acadia National Park. Explore the stunning coastal scenery, hike peaceful trails, and enjoy some of the best views you’ve ever seen from Cadillac Mountain. The park is great for outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Don’t miss a trip to nearby Bar Harbor, a charming town that features local shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities like boating, kayaking, and more.
Where to Stay
With so much to explore in The Pine Tree State, no two vacations in Maine are alike. From rustic lodges to boutique inns and waterfront resorts, browse our recommendations for unique lodging in Maine to begin planning your next adventure.
Massachusetts
What to Eat
Massachusetts is known for its delicious roast beef sandwiches, especially the North Shore variety. These typically feature thinly-sliced, medium-rare roast beef on a freshly toasted bun or sub roll. In terms of toppings, opt for a tangy or smoky BBQ sauce, melted American or provolone cheese, pickles, horseradish, lettuce, and tomato.
In search of an iconic spot? Grab a sandwich from Kelly's Roast Beef in Revere as it’s famous for its large, flavorful sandwich and curly fries. Another local favorite known for generous portions and a variety of toppings is Jamie’s Roast Beef in Peabody.
What to Do
No trip to Massachusetts is complete without venturing to Boston. Immerse yourself in the history of the area by walking the Freedom Trail, visiting historic sites like Boston Common, Paul Revere's House, and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. If you’re looking to embrace a more beachy vibe, hit Cape Cod for the day to explore the charming towns, do some whale watching, bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail, and more.
Where to Stay
No matter where you choose to explore, you can't go wrong with a Massachusetts getaway. The options for unique lodging adds to the overall enjoyment of vacations in one of our favorite states.
New Hampshire
What to Eat
New Hampshire’s reputation is outdoorsy, adventurous, and unapologetically independent. And the food they're known for is no different. Apple cider doughnuts are unique in their own right—and while they may seem like a fall favorite, they're actually a top treat all year round. Made with fresh apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these cake-like doughnuts are often fried until golden and dusted with sugar. Especially popular at orchards and local farms during the autumn months, they perfectly capture the essence of the season and the state, making them a must-try.
In Hampton Falls, you’ll find Applecrest Farm Orchard, a fourth generation family farm that takes pride in growing the highest quality fruits and vegetables for their community and beyond. They’re known for their fresh and flavorful doughnuts and pies made with local apples and baked daily.
What to Do
Explore the hiking trails of the White Mountains, scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway, and the cog railway at Mount Washington before venturing to Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re on the water, in the woods, or searching for the most finely-crafted knick-knacks in the state, finding the perfect hotel, inn, or resort is the first step to planning your perfect New Hampshire getaway. But you’re in luck, we have some favorites and we’re willing to share.
Rhode Island
What to Eat
When in Rhode Island, order the stuffies. This dish is typically made from quahog clams, minced and mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, spices before additional ingredients like sausage, vegetables, or cheese are added. The mixture is then stuffed back into the clam shell and baked until golden brown.
Both Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House in Narragansett and Newport’s The Mooring offer delicious stuffies. Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House is famous for their stuffed quahogs, served alongside their renowned clam chowder. The Mooring offers a gourmet take on stuffies with fresh ingredients and a great waterfront view. You can’t go wrong.
What to Do
Exploring Newport is one of our favorite things to do in Rhode Island. Tour the stunning Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue, including The Breakers and Marble House before enjoying the Cliff Walk’s views. Don’t miss downtown’s cobblestone streets and variety of shops, too.
Where to Stay
It may be the smallest of the New England states, but anyone who has planned vacations in Rhode Island knows this destination makes up for its landmass with a bold, spunky, and vivacious personality. Here’s where you should stay.
Vermont
What to Eat
Vermont is known for its maple creemees, a rich and creamy soft-serve ice cream made with pure Vermont maple syrup. Often served in a cone or cup, creemees are typically enjoyed plain or with various toppings. While they’re available year round, they’re especially popular during Vermont's maple syrup harvest in the spring and summer months.
Wondering where to get one? Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington is a local favorite as their delicious maple creemees are made with local syrup and high-quality ingredients. The Creemee Stand located in Wilmington is also a local hotspot that serves rich and creamy maple soft serve, perfect for a warm day.
What to Do
When in Vermont, visit Stowe. With hiking, skiing, and shopping in charming Stowe Village, you’ll never run out of things to do here. Burlington also has a vibrant atmosphere, featuring a bustling waterfront, local breweries, and the Church Street Marketplace, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy street performances.
Where to Stay
No matter what’s on the itinerary for your Vermont vacation, choosing a place to drop your bags will pull it all together. Opt for unique lodging, including Vermont hotels, resorts, inns, and more to start planning your adventure to the Green Mountain State.
About New England Inns and Resorts
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.
