5 Winter Weekend Getaways In New England

Boston, MA via Flickr Masstravel

New England is a lovely place to visit year-round, even during the unpredictable winters. It's also no secret that it has one of the best food scenes in the country. There are plenty of charming cities and towns to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned beer buff, or just looking to hit the slopes, New England has you covered.  Check out one of these destinations for the perfect winter weekend getaway in New England.

1. Burlington, VT

Burlington, VT - Church Street

With lots of restaurants, shops, and breweries, you’ll have plenty of options for a winter weekend in Burlington, VT. If you’re looking for a spa escape, check out the nearby Essex Resort. Wander down Church Street for shopping or book a local brewery tour. Feeling nostalgic? Head over to Archives and try your luck at a vintage arcade game.

Where to stay:
Hotel Vermont: A highly rated independent hotel located in the heart of downtown. (See our review of Hotel Vermont here!)
Where to eat:
Hen of the Wood: A popular restaurant with intimate dining. Be sure to book reservations far in advance, they fill up quickly.
Zabby and Elf's Stone Soup: A buffet-style eatery with an inviting atmosphere. The perfect place to stop in for a delicious lunch.

2. North Conway, NH

North Conway, NH in Winter - Wikimedia Commons

North Conway is a great destination for a winter weekend getaway amongst the mountains. There’s plenty of skiing, ice-skating, and snowboarding available nearby. If you’re in need of some retail therapy, you‘re in luck. Check out the outlet malls and enjoy tax-free shopping.

Where to stay:
The White Mountain Hotel: A classy hotel with beautiful mountain views. Book their winter packages for a skiing or spa escape.
Where to eat:
Ledges: Located right in White Mountain Hotel, Ledges offers tasty fare with breathtaking scenery.

3. Mystic, CT

Mystic CT via Flickr m01229

Mystic is a lovely destination in both summer and winter months. Celebrate the holiday season on a magical lantern light tour at Mystic Seaport. For shopping, Olde Mistick Village has lots of adorable stores and dining options open year round. Weather acting up? No problem! You can spend the day indoors and check out an exhibit at the Mystic Aquarium.

Where to stay:
The Whalers Inn: A charming boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Mystic.
Where to eat:
Mystic Pizza: Enjoy a slice of heaven at the world-famous Mystic Pizza.

4. Boston, MA

Boston, MA via Flickr - Masstravel

There is plenty to do year-round in the bustling city of Boston. With local transit, you’ll have no issue getting around the city and escaping the cold. If weather permits, stroll down Newbury Street for some high-end shopping and ice skating in Boston Common. If it happens to be rainy or too cold, there are plenty of fantastic museums to spend the day in. Catch an evening show and wrap up the night with a top-notch dinner in the North End. Be sure to grab a cannoli at Mike‘s Pastry.

Where to stay:
The Taj: Built in 1927, this boutique hotel is ideally located near Boston Common.
Where to eat:
Bricco: Italian fare and cocktails in the North End.

5. Portland, ME

Portland ME - Holiday Art Walk via Flickr - Corey Templeton

The coastal charm doesn‘t die off in the winter months. It certainly gets very cold up North, but nothing beats the fresh crisp air of Maine. Check out the Urban Farm Fermentory and keep warm with a tasty brew. The Fermentory has a rotating tap serving cider, kombucha, beer, and mead. If you‘re staying in Portland, Pineland Farms is a quick drive and offers lots of winter activities including sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing. After an active day at the farm, cozy up by the fireplace with a board game and hot cocoa.

Where to stay:
The Pomegrante Inn: An eclectic boutique bed and breakfast with fireplace suites.
Where to eat:
Duckfat: Hand-cut Maine potatoes fried in duck fat? Yes, please! Stop into this locally owned cafe for some quality eats.

What is your favorite destination during the New England winters? Do you prefer to stay cozy by the fire, or hit up the snowy slopes?