New England States - 10 Days Itinerary

Arrive in Southern Maine

Begin your road trip by driving to the picturesque southern coast of Maine, specifically the Cape Neddick/York area.

Settle into your luxurious accommodation.

Enjoy the scenic drive along the coast as you arrive.

Walk Marginal Way

Take a leisurely stroll along the Marginal Way, a scenic coastal path offering stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and secluded coves in Ogunquit.

Wear comfortable shoes. Benches are available along the path for enjoying the views.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a classic Maine seafood dinner at a local restaurant in Ogunquit, known for its fresh lobster and ocean-inspired dishes.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with ocean views. Reservations might be recommended in August.

Nubble Lighthouse Visit

Visit the iconic Cape Neddick 'Nubble' Lighthouse, one of Maine's most photographed lighthouses.

Enjoy the views from Sohier Park.

The lighthouse is on a small island, accessible only by boat. Views are best from the park.

Explore Kennebunkport

Wander through the charming coastal village of Kennebunkport, explore its boutique shops, art galleries, and view Walker's Point (Bush Compound).

Plenty of options for a casual lunch in Dock Square.

Ocean Thrill Ride/Lighthouse Tour

Embark on an exhilarating ocean-based adventure with New England EcoAdventures, offering lighthouse tours or thrill rides on a high-performance RIB boat.

Dress in layers and be prepared for potential spray. This is an exciting way to see the coastline from the water!

Evening at Cliff House

Return to Cliff House Maine to relax, enjoy the hotel's amenities, and perhaps have dinner with stunning ocean views.

Consider making dinner reservations at the hotel's restaurant.

Scenic Drive to Salem

Enjoy a scenic drive south from Maine into Massachusetts, passing through coastal towns.

Stop for lunch along the way in Portsmouth, NH.

Portsmouth, NH offers a charming downtown and many lunch options.

Salem Witch Museum

Explore the history of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials through a dramatic presentation at the Salem Witch Museum.

Often crowded, especially in August. Consider buying tickets online in advance.

Historic Salem Walk

Stroll through historic Salem, visiting sites like The House of the Seven Gables and the Old Burying Point Cemetery.

Many walking tours are available, or explore independently with a map.

Dinner in Salem

Enjoy dinner at one of Salem's diverse restaurants, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.

Salem has a lively evening atmosphere; make reservations if you have a specific restaurant in mind.

Explore Rockport & Bearskin Neck

Drive to the charming fishing village of Rockport.

Explore Bearskin Neck, a narrow peninsula filled with art galleries, shops, and Motif No. 1, a famous red fishing shack.

Parking can be challenging in peak season; arrive early or use designated lots.

Gloucester Harbor & Lunch

Visit Gloucester, America's oldest seaport.

See the iconic 'Man at the Wheel' statue and enjoy lunch with fresh seafood overlooking the harbor.

Consider visiting the Fisherman's Memorial for a poignant historical perspective.

Beach Time at Wingaersheek

Relax and swim at Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester, known for its soft white sand, calm waters, and low tide sandbars perfect for exploring.

Parking often requires a fee and can fill up quickly, especially on a Tuesday in August. Arrive early or plan to take a shuttle if available.

Evening in Newburyport

Drive to Newburyport for the evening.

Explore its historic waterfront district and enjoy dinner in this picturesque town.

Newburyport has many excellent restaurants and a vibrant downtown area for an evening stroll.

Drive to Plymouth

Depart from the North Shore and head south towards historic Plymouth, a pivotal site in American history.

Visit Plymouth Rock

See the iconic Plymouth Rock, the traditional site of disembarkation of the Mayflower Pilgrims.

A good opportunity to learn about early American history.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums

Immerse yourself in 17th-century history at Plimoth Patuxet Museums, a living history museum depicting the Plymouth Colony and a Wampanoag Homesite.

This open-air museum is best enjoyed with comfortable walking shoes. Allow ample time to explore both the 17th-Century English Village and the Wampanoag Homesite.

Drive to Cape Cod

Continue your journey south across the Cape Cod Canal and onto the beautiful peninsula.

Head towards your accommodation in the Falmouth/Hyannis area.

Dinner on Cape Cod

Enjoy your first dinner on Cape Cod, perhaps with some fresh seafood or a relaxed meal in a local eatery.

Both Falmouth and Hyannis offer a variety of dining options and are good bases for exploring the Upper Cape.

Drive to Cape Cod

Enjoy a scenic drive from the Massachusetts North Shore down to Cape Cod.

Cross the Cape Cod Canal and head towards your accommodation.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your chosen accommodation in a central Cape Cod town like Hyannis or Dennis.

Grab a casual lunch at a local eatery.

Many charming diners and cafes offer fresh seafood rolls and local specialties.

Relax at Coast Guard Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine sands of Coast Guard Beach, known for its natural beauty and calm waters. It's an ideal spot for swimming or simply soaking up the sun.

Parking is at a remote lot, and a shuttle bus takes you to the beach (seasonal operation, check schedules). Alternatively, consider Nauset Beach in Orleans.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a classic New England seafood dinner, perhaps a lobster bake or fresh fried clams, at a local restaurant.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with ocean views. Reservations are recommended for popular spots in August.

Drive to Provincetown

Embark on a scenic drive up Route 6 to the vibrant tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown, known for its artistic community and beautiful harbor.

Provincetown Whale Watching

Join a thrilling whale watching excursion from Provincetown, venturing into Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to spot humpback, fin, and minke whales.

Dress in layers as it can be cooler on the water. Bring binoculars and a camera. Booking in advance is highly recommended during peak season.

Explore Commercial Street

After your whale watch, stroll down Commercial Street, browse unique shops, art galleries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Provincetown.

Grab a quick bite or ice cream from one of the many cafes.

Visit Race Point Lighthouse

Head to Race Point Beach for stunning views of the iconic Race Point Lighthouse.

Enjoy the expansive dunes and perhaps catch the beginning of a beautiful sunset.

Access to the lighthouse itself requires a 4x4 permit or a long walk, but the views from the beach are spectacular.

Dinner in Provincetown

Savor dinner at one of Provincetown's diverse restaurants, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.

Breakfast & Checkout

Enjoy a final Cape Cod breakfast and check out from your accommodation.

Drive to Boston

Depart Cape Cod and drive north to the historic city of Boston.

Allow for potential traffic approaching the city.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your Boston hotel.

Grab lunch at a casual spot in the downtown or North End area.

The North End offers fantastic Italian food options for lunch.

Freedom Trail Highlights

Begin your exploration of Boston's rich history by walking a portion of the Freedom Trail.

Focus on iconic sites like the Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, and Faneuil Hall.

Wear comfortable shoes. Information about each site is readily available, or you can join a guided tour.

New England Holocaust Memorial

Visit the poignant New England Holocaust Memorial, featuring six glass towers representing the six million Jews who perished and the six main Nazi death camps.

North End Dinner

Enjoy a delicious Italian dinner in Boston's historic North End, known for its authentic restaurants and vibrant atmosphere.

Consider making reservations, especially on a Saturday night.

New England Aquarium

Explore the New England Aquarium, a global center for ocean exploration and marine conservation.

See a wide variety of sea creatures and learn about marine life.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time and avoid queues.

New England Aquarium Whale Watch

Embark on Boston's best whale watch, guided by experienced marine biologists.

Discover majestic whales and other marine inhabitants in their natural habitat.

Tours depart from the Aquarium dock. Wear layers. Booking well in advance is essential.

Stroll through Beacon Hill

Wander through the picturesque streets of Beacon Hill, admiring its cobblestone lanes, gas lamps, and elegant brick row houses. Don't miss Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in America.

Many independent boutiques and antique shops are found in this area.

Dinner in Beacon Hill

Enjoy dinner at one of Beacon Hill's charming restaurants, offering a more refined dining experience.

Many restaurants here offer a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Boston Public Garden & Common

Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll through the beautiful Boston Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in America, and the adjacent Boston Common.

Consider a Swan Boat ride if available.

The Swan Boats operate seasonally; check their schedule for August. It's a lovely way to enjoy the scenery.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Do some last-minute souvenir shopping around the downtown crossing area or Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Faneuil Hall offers a mix of local crafts and popular shops.

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final New England lunch before heading home or to the airport.

Departure from Boston

Depending on your flight or driving plans, head to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) or begin your drive home, concluding your New England road trip.