While New England is known for it’s incredible fall foliage, I actually love the winter season here just as much! Having travelled all over the region in the colder months for 10+ years, I’ve scouted out the absolute best New England winter getaways you can take that will transport you into a quaint winter wonderland.
And the best news? Even if you don’t ski, there’s so much to do in the winter in New England, including ice skating, fireside dinners, relaxing spas, snow tubing, scenic drives, and sampling all the seasonal flavors in some of the best restaurants in the Northeast. Even if you’re just looking for a cozy place to curl up inside with a good book and a warm bath, I’ve got you covered there, too. You’ll never be so excited for a cold winter season after reading this post!
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Best New England Winter Getaways
While most towns in this region make for wonderful and cozy New England winter getaways, here is my list of the ones I think are especially perfect in the winter. Whether you’re looking for the best ski towns, relaxing places to get cozy for the weekend, opportunities for outdoor activities or incredible dining opportunities, you’ll find all of these are more in the towns mentioned on this list.
Be sure to keep reading this post for ideas on the best winter resorts, romantic winter getaways, budget winter getaways and New England getaway options for families!
Best New England Winter Towns
1. Stowe, VT
If I had to pick one place in New England to suggest for both skiers and non-skiers, it would be Stowe in Vermont. It truly has a little something for everyone, and is my favorite suggestion for all types of travelers in the winter including families, couples, solo travelers and those traveling with friends.
It’s also one of the most charming little towns in all of New England. The scenery is picture-perfect with covered bridges, an adorable Main Street, fantastic restaurants, and a distinct New England feel.
Stowe starts the winter season off with a bang with its Traditional Christmas in Stowe celebration, and then makes a seamless transition to their Winter Carnival in January. During their Winter Carnival, you’ll find ice sculpture contests with the creations all over town, fun sporting events and evening parties.
Stowe is also one of the top towns in New England for skiers, and is home to some of the top ski resorts in North America, including the Lodge at Spruce Peak (but more on that later!). The apres ski scene here in Stowe is incredibly fun, and the town makes hitting the slopes very easy.
Not a skier? No problem! Stowe is one of the most picture-perfect and idyllic places in the entire country in the winter. The village is home to beautiful boutiques along a charming Main Street, a cute covered bridge, spas, amazing restaurants, and lovely walking paths for a relaxing stroll.
If you’re looking for some outdoor winter activities in Stowe that don’t involve skis, you’ll want to look into ice skating at the public ice rink at the Lodge at Spruce Peak, snow tubing, and snowshoeing.
Psst! I have some more posts on Stowe that you may find helpful, including Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT, and My Guide To Visiting Stowe, VT In The Winter.
2. Waitsfield, VT
Another one of the best areas in Vermont for skiers is Waitsfield, which is home to the Mad River Glen ski region and Sugarbush Ski Resort. Compared to Stowe, this area tends to see fewer crowds (although, the ski trails can still be busy on weekends), and has a more rural atmosphere compared to Stowe.
Waitsfield is one of my favorite towns in the Mad River Valley region, and while it’s not as big as places like Stowe, it has a cute little Main Street, is home to the original American Flatbread Company restaurant (a Vermont staple!), and provides all the cozy winter vibes.
If you’re not a skier, there are a few places in Waitsfield that offer relaxing winter massages, and this is also one of the best areas in Vermont to tour the covered bridges for this idyllic New England landscapes. And of course, you’ll find plenty of outdoor winter activities to choose from like snowshoeing and ice skating.
3. Woodstock, VT
Woodstock is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont, even in winter. It also kicks off the winter season with their Wassail Weekend Christmas celebration in December, and continues to host community events all winter long. And with the gorgeous village center filled with boutiques and cafes, the covered bridge right in town and the beautiful rural landscapes a short drive away, it’s definitely one of the most perfect New England winter vacations.
If you’re hoping to ski, Woodstock has you covered! The Saskadena Six ski resort is a quick 5-10 minute drive from the center of town, and is known as being a great place for beginners. It’s also smaller and more manageable for those looking for a more relaxing ski experience.
The Woodstock Nordic Center is also convenient for those looking to explore the 27 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.
Some other great things to do in Woodstock in the winter are to indulge in all the incredible restaurants (I highly recommend booking a special and cozy dinner at the Lincoln Inn!), tour the covered bridges, get pampered at the spa at the Woodstock Inn and spend your time meandering through the lovely village.
Psst! I have a detailed guide on the Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT, if you need more information 😉
Bonus Suggestions: Quechee, VT
Quechee is a small town that’s a short 10-15 minute drive from Woodstock, and while most people choose to visit during their stay in Woodstock, I actually love to suggest you actually stay right in Quechee. As one of the more underrated towns in Vermont, it’s a bit more spread out than Woodstock’s downtown, but offers a lot to do.
In Quechee, you’ll find unique and fun shopping, a covered bridge, the Quechee Gorge (which is very cool to see in the winter!), a distillery, and great options for dining. One of the best restaurants to check out is The Mill, which is located inside the flagship Simon Pearce store. This cozy restaurant overlooks the river and the covered bridge, and was named one of the most romantic restaurants in the U.S.!
4. Jackson
Nestled in the White Mountains region, Jackson is packed with tons of things to do in the winter season, and also has some perfectly cozy places to stay. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have snow no matter when you visit in the winter, and with the incredible mountain views at every turn, it’ll feel like a true escape from reality.
Right in Jackson, you’ll find Nestlenook Farms, which is one of my favorite places to go during the winter season in New England. The property is aglow with twinkle lights, but they also offer great sleigh rides through the woods, and their pond turns into the most gorgeous ice rink in the entire region.
I also love to go snowshoeing at Jackson XC, and they make it easy with rentals right on site. You have lots of options for groomed trails, and also pass by a cute little covered bridge on your adventure. But, of course, if cross-country skiing is your thing, this is a fantastic place to go for that (I just happen to prefer snowshoeing myself 😉).
Jackson is also in a great location in the White Mountains region, and is just a few minutes away from North Conway, and the Scenic Conway Railroad for some lovely winter train rides through the mountains. North Conway also has the quaint little Bavarian Chocolate Haus, which often has sugar plums, and pretty much any kind of chocolate treats you could want in the winter.
One of the coolest and most unique things to do in the area in the winter is to plan your trip around the mount Washington Valley Chocolate Festival. During the festival, local businesses create special chocolate treats that are offered along the cross-country and snowshoeing trails, where you can stop and indulge in delicious desserts along the way! But don’t worry, if you’re not into skiing or snowshoeing, you can also drive to each stop.
5. Littleton, NH
Another one of my favorite towns in the White Mountains region is Littleton, which is one of the best New England winter getaways for those who are just looking for a cozy little spot to relax in the winter.
Littleton has three big claims to fame: Having one of the best Main Streets in the U.S., earning the nickname “Glad Town” as a nod to Pollyanna, as the writer of the famed story lived in Littleton, and lastly, it’s also home to the longest candy counter in the world at Chutters.
Littleton won’t have a ski town atmosphere, but still feels like a winter wonderland with twinkle lights lining the Main Street at night, a beautiful covered bridge that crosses the river, and cozy restaurants. This is definitely the place to stay in New Hampshire if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in a picturesque town.
While the town itself is such a fun place to explore, it’s also in a great location in the western part of the White Mountains, and you’re not far from Franconia and Lincoln for more things to do.
Psst! I have an entire guide on Things To Do In Littleton, NH, If you’d like more ideas 😉
6. Lincoln, NH
Speaking of Lincoln, it just so happens to make for a wonderful New England winter getaway on its town, largely due to the incredible winter activities offered at Loon Mountain. At this ski resort, you’ll be able to hit the slopes, go snow tubing, try your hand at Sno-Go (a combination of skiing and biking!), hop on a gondola for a scenic ride, and enjoy the peaceful cross-country trails.
Outside of the Loon Mountain Resort, you can also enjoy the cute little village, dine at the awesome restaurants and even get your adrenaline going with a winter zip lining tour with Alpine Adventures. And one of the most exciting things to experience is Ice Castles, which typically takes place between January and first week of March.
Lincoln is also the starting place for the gorgeous Kancamagus Highway. Running along Route 112 through the White Mountains National Forest, this route is famous for its fall foliage, but its also a wonderful drive in the winter season for the incredible mountains views.
Psst! I have an entire guide on Things To Do In Lincoln, NH and Where To Stay In The White Mountains if you’re looking for more information on each of the towns and best hotels 😉
7. Portsmouth, NH
For one of the more cozy New England winter getaways, you’ll want to head to the gorgeous city of Portsmouth in New Hampshire! Portsmouth is one of my favorite destinations in New England for history, shopping, and dining, and in the winter, it turns into an idyllic New England post card. While it’s a city, it feels very much like a small town, and is a perfect destination if you’re looking for a change of scenery, but want lots to do steps from your hotel.
One of the most fun things to do in the winter in Portsmouth is to head to the Strawbery Banke Museum, strap on some skates and enjoy their lovely outdoor rink. The museum and the rink sit adjacent to the waterfront park, and you’ll also enjoy views of the historic homes (which are beautifully decorated at Christmas, if you happen to visit at that time).
For amazing shopping, Market Square in Portsmouth is where to be. You’ll find mostly independent boutiques here (some of my favorites are Jane Gee and Sault New England, as well as incredible restaurants.
8. Bethel, ME
One of the best ski towns in Maine is Bethel, and here, you’ll never run out of winter outdoor activities. So if you’re looking to get out into nature and play in the snow on your New England winter vacation, Bethel is is one of the best places in Maine to plan your vacation!
Not only is it home to the one the best ski resorts in New England, Sunday River, you’ll find everything here from snow tubing, cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling, ice fishing and ice skating.
When you’re not adventuring outdoors, Bethel also has scenic landscapes you can enjoy (including the Sunday River Covered Bridge), cozy hotels, restaurant and a cute little Main Street.
Psst! I have an entire guide on the Best Things To Do In Bethel, Maine if you need more ideas for your visit 😉
9. Freeport, ME
Freeport is another destination in Maine that’s perfect for those looking to strike a balance between outdoor activities and enjoying a cute and cozy town. Freeport will be much quieter than other bigger winter resort towns in New England this time of the year, but does a great job celebrating the season.
You’ll definitely want to explore the shops and restaurants along Main Street, and hit up the L.L. Bean Flagship campus to stock up on your winter essentials (flannels, wicked good slippers and warm PJs from here are a must for winter!). Then be sure to grab lunch or dinner at the very comforting Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro.
And when you’re ready to get outside, there are tons of cross-country and snowshoe trails to explore, or you can cuddle up on a scenic sleigh ride with Carousel Horse Farm.
Freeport is also home to one of my favorite breweries in the state, Main Beer Company, and it’s especially cozy to visit in the winter season. The space is very large, but t hey do take reservations. Not only are their beers amazing (try Lunch and Dinner – yes, those are the names of the beers!), but they also serve up some really great brick oven pizzas.
If you happen to visit in February, you’ll want to time your trip just right to experience Flavors of Freeport, where Maine’s best chefs showcase their latest culinary creations, and you’ll find other fun things like the Frosty Frolic, dance parties and the Freeport Foodie Lotto.
10. Camden, ME
Home to the Camden Snow Bowl, this is definitely a top New England winter getaway destination! The Camden Snow Bowl is an exciting winder wonderland ski destination that also appeals to non-skiers. You can, of course, choose to click into your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes, or you can fly down the really fun toboggan chute, which spits you out onto Hosmer Pond.
One of the reasons the Camden Snow Bowl has become internationally recognized is because while the trails are awesome, it also provides incredible ocean views. There’s no where else you can enjoy both mountain and ocean views while skiing in the region, so this is definitely one to consider for your next winter trip.
In addition to the Snow Bowl, Camden is also one of the most charming and beautiful coastal towns in New England, and has a really nice Main Street with great shops and wonderful restaurants offering a fun apres ski vibe.
11. Kennebunkport, ME
If you’re looking to head to the coast for your New England winter trip, Kennebunkport is one of the best towns. While you won’t find a ski atmosphere here, you’ll be greeted with a downtown that’s packed with character, cozy restaurants and ocean views (that are even amazing in the winter!).
But just because it’s a coastal town doesn’t mean it won’t bring all the fun winter activities. In Kennebunkport, you’ll be able to enjoy a scenic sleigh ride with Rockin’ Horse Stables, enjoy cross-country and snowshoe trails at Harris Farm and hit the ice at Waterhouse Center Ice Rink.
One of the best things to do in Kennebunkport in the winter, though, is to head to Batson River Brewing & Distilling and reserve one of their cozy winter fishing shacks for a very fun lunch or dinner.
12. Rangeley, ME
Also known for its skiing, Rangeley, Maine is another amazing destination to consider for your winter vacation. If it’s winter sports you’re after, you definitely won’t run out of options. But you’ll also find plenty to do for non-skiers, too.
For downhill skiing and snowboarding, you’ll want to head to Saddleback Mountain, which is great for all levels from beginner to advanced. For scenic cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing and fat biking, the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center has over 30 miles of groomed trails to explore. And Rangeley Lake is one of the best places to visit in New England if you’ve ever wanted to try snowmobiling – it has over 170 miles of groomed snowmobile trails! And there are lots of places that rent them out or offer tours.
When you’re done adventuring for the day, grab a cozy meal at the Gingerbread House in nearby Oquossoc, meander through the very charming downtown shops, or have a fun night bowling while sipping cocktails at Moose Alley.
13. Portland, ME
One of my favorite things about Portland is that it’s wonderful to visit in any season, including winter, and because most folks head to the mountains to ski, you’ll get to experience the beauty of the city with far fewer crowds.
Since I’m such a lighthouse fanatic, one of my favorite things to do in Portland in the winter is tour the city’s 3 lighthouses to see them covered in a blanket of snow (if I’m lucky, that is). Portland Head Light is beautiful in the winter, and the nearby lighthouses of Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light are also fun to see in the winter.
Portland is also an amazing city to explore if you’re a foodie, and the culinary scene here is incredible. One of the best things to do on a winter getaway in Portland is to make reservations at some of the top restaurants, and indulge in the seasonal flavors.
But if you’re looking to get an insider’s guide to all the best food in the area, you’ll definitely want to book a tour! This walking tour through Old Port is one of the coolest things to do in the city in the winter.
Click here to book your Culinary Walking Tour in Portland!
And, of course, you can’t forget about Maine Restaurant Week, which takes place in March each year.
Here are some of my Maine posts that you may find helpful:
- Things To Do In Portland, Maine In The Winter
- Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
- Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine
- Bar Harbor, Maine In The Winter
14. Newport, RI
Newport in Rhode Island is known as one New England’s most popular cities in the summer, but I love is just as much in the winter. And the best part? You’ll hardly experience any crowds. On top of that, weather in Newport tends to be more mild in the winter compared to other areas of New England, so you likely won’t experience the frigid temperatures, either.
One of the best things to do in Newport in the winter is to simply enjoy everything that makes the city incredible, including touring the famous Gilded Age mansions, walking along the very scenic Cliff Walk, admiring the gorgeous historic homes and diving into the amazing food scene.
One place that’s especially cozy in the winter is the White Horse Tavern, which is the oldest tavern in the country.
But for special winter activities, you can lace up your skates and head to Goat Island, and skate at the rink with awesome views of the lighthouse and Newport Bridge. After your time on the rink, get cozy inside one of the igloos at Gurney’s, which is right on Goat Island, or at The Reef in the heart of the city.
Psst! I have an entire guide on Fun Things To Do In Newport, RI In The Winter, if you need more ideas 😉
15. Exeter, RI
Just north of Newport in Rhode Island, you’ll find the cute little town of Exeter, which is home to the only ski resort in Rhode Island. If you’re local to Rhode Island and don’t want to travel far for fun winter outdoor recreation, you’ll want to head to the Yawgoo Valley Ski Area.
This ski area not only offers downhill trails for skiers and snowboaders, but it also has a really nice snowtubing park.
After your day at Yawgoo, head to the Tilted Barn Brewery, which is one of my favorites in New England. Not only are the brews at Tilted Barn awesome, in the winter, they have fire pits outside and continue to host food trucks where you can grab some delicious food during your visit.
16. Providence, RI
Another great city destination that’s one of the. best New England winter vacation destinations is Providence, RI. And this is also an incredible place to visit if you’re looking to take in a show or two, as the theater scene here is very exciting. Be sure to check upcoming performances at the Providence Performing Arts Center before your visit.
For winter fun, head to Kennedy Plaza’s outdoor ice rink, which is in the heart of downtown, and offers the most beautiful city views while you glide along the ice.
And, of course, shopping and dining is amazing in Providence year-round. For a little retail therapy, don’t miss the Arcade on Weybosset Street, which has really unique, independently owned boutiques in a very cool atmosphere. And if you’re looking to really get the inside scoop on the culinary scene, be sure to book a tour led by a local to find all the best spots.
Click here to book your culinary tour through Providence!
But one of the best things to do in Providence? Wander the historic streets. There’s so much incredible architecture at every turn in this city, and in the winter, you’ll encounter far fewer crowds, making a relaxing meander through the streets very relaxing.
17. Stockbridge, MA
Stockbridge is one of the most famous Christmas towns in New England, but it’s also one of the best towns for a New England winter getaway during the entire season. Since it’s one of the towns located in The Berkshires, it’s packed with all kinds of outdoor winter activities, and of course, is also home to one of the most picturesque Main Streets.
Norman Rockwell made Stockbridge’s Main Street famous with his Christmas painting, but even after Christmas is over, the town maintains its cozy winter charm. Be sure to visit the shops and local restaurants while there!
Besides exploring Main Street, there are plenty of ski resorts nearby to pick from, many of which also include snow tubing, making these top places to visit in Massachusetts in the winter. Hilltop Orchards remains open in the winter, and invites visitors to do wine and cider tastings, and also snowshoe through their scenic orchard trails.
18. Boston, MA
The biggest city in New England still feels quaint and cozy in the winter, and makes for a really fun winter weekend away. In fact, winter is one of my favorite seasons to visit Boston! There are so many indoor activities like museums, the aquarium and theaters, and with the incredible food scene in Boston, there are plenty of ways to keep your winter palette happy.
Speaking of food, I’m going to say it again! Walking tours led by local experts are especially fun in the winter, and guess what? I did an entire post on the best food tours in Boston!
In the winter, grab your skates and head to the Boston Common Frog Pond. From there, it’s a short walk to the Public Gardens, which are still beautiful in the winter (especially after a fresh snow fall if you’re lucky).
My personal favorite thing to do in Boston in the winter is to grab a cup of hot cocoa and stroll through Beacon Hill, which is a historic neighborhood close to downtown Boston that feels like a quaint New England village. For a cozy hot cocoa and some seasonal chocolate creations to go with it, grab a table at the very cozy LA Burdick.
Restaurant Week in Boston also takes place in March! This is a great time to visit the city for those looking to explore more of the culinary scene.
19. Chatham, MA
So many people don’t realize that Cape Cod is actually such a great destination in the winter! And one of my favorite towns to stay in during winter visits is Chatham, which is one of the most charming towns on the Cape year-round. A lot of the stores and restaurants in Chatham are also still open this time of the year, which is really convenient.
The weather on Cape Cod in the winter is unique, and much like Newport, RI. most days average in the 40s, and it doesn’t really get a lot of snow. So if you’re looking for a coastal winter getaway to take in the salty air, ocean views, and tackle some of the scenic nature trails, this is a great destination to consider.
Psst! I have an entire guide on Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Winter, if you’d like more suggestions 😉
20. Essex, CT
One of Connecticut’s most idyllic towns is Essex, and in the winter, it provides all the cozy vibes you’re looking for in a small New England town. It’s home to one of the most beautiful Main Streets that’s perfect for a little retail therapy, and also one of the country’s oldest inns. It’s so charming, in fact, an actual Hallmark movie was filmed here – Christmas at Pemberley Manor.
Essex is the perfect New England winter getaway if you’re looking to just relax in a small town that’s packed with character. Relax at the Griswold Inn, a historic and cozy little place that provides guests with amenities like a tap room, wine bar, incredible dining and homey accommodations. Grab a glass of wine, settle in next to a fire with a good book, and completely unwind in Essex.
21. Mystic, CT
Last, but definitely not least on my list of best winter towns in New England, is Mystic in Connecticut. While Mystic is also known as an awesome summer destination, I think it’s equally as fun in the winter. Again, you’ll encounter far fewer crowds during this time of the year, and be able to enjoy all the beautiful views and attractions with a different perspective in the winter.
One of the best things to do in Mystic, CT in the winter is the shopping. Between all the really cool shops on Main Street in downtown Mystic, and the very fun Olde Mystik Village just outside of downtown, you could easily spend an entire day indulging in some retail therapy.
While strolling through Olde Mystik Village, be sure to grab a customized hot cocoa from the potion bar and Cloak & Wand. Or, if tea sounds extra enticing on a chilly day, head to Alice in the Village for a very fun afternoon tea service.
And of course, dining in Mystic is wonderful. Treat yourself to some fresh oysters at S&P Oyster Restaurant & Bar. If it’s a little pampering you’re after, you can head to nearby Norwich and indulge at the spa at the Norwich Inn.
Here are some of my posts on the destinations mentioned above you may find helpful:
- Things To Do In Stowe, VT
- Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
- Things To Do In Littleton, NH
- Things To Do In Lincoln, NH
- Things To Do In Newport, RI In The Winter
- Cape Cod In The Winter
- Things To Do In Essex, CT
- Things To Do In Mystic, CT
Best Winter Resorts In New England
If you’re looking to head to one of the best winter resorts in New England for your getaway, look no further! All of these places will have everything you need for an amazing and cozy getaway during this magical time of the year, including restaurants on-site, and special touches that make celebrating the winter season a lot of fun. Many of these are luxury options, but keep reading for budget-friendly suggestions, too.
The Lodge At Spruce Peak – Stowe, VT
Not only is Stowe, VT one of the best winter towns in New England, it’s also home to one of the best luxury winter resorts – the Lodge at Spruce Peak. Not only does Spruce Peak have its own little village with shops, it’s home to the very festive ice rink, restaurants, a spa and very cozy rooms in a wintery lodge building. It’s also a ski-in, ski-out resort, with options for townhouses, cabins, penthouses and traditional guest rooms.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Lodge at Spruce Peak
Trapp Family Lodge – Stowe, VT
Another amazing resort option in Stowe is the Trapp Family Lodge, which is home to the best cross-country trails system in Stowe. This Bavarian-style alpine resort also offers amenities like massage services, restaurants, a brewery and bierhall, and winter equipment rentals. And, of course, the style of the lodge itself will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to the Alps.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Trapp Family Lodge
Omni Mount Washington Resort – Bretton Woods, NH
New Hampshire’s best luxury resort, especially in the winter season, is the Omni Mount Washington Resort. Located in the White Mountains, this resort has all the ingredients for an incredible winter getaway in New England, including a complimentary ski shuttle, spa, restaurants, snow tubing, sleigh rides and cozy accommodations (including a very cool speakeasy which is awesome for the apres ski scene).
I think the best part of this resort in the winter, though, is the incredible mountain views at every turn on the resort grounds.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Omni Mount Washington Resort
Loon Mountain RiverWalk – Lincoln, NH
For another option in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Loon Mountain RiverWalk makes for a wonderful winter resort getaway. The RiverWalk offers complimentary shuttles to the ski base at Loon Mountain, and also has a spa, winery tasting room and restaurant right on site. In the winter, they turn their pool into an ice rink, so you don’t have to go far for lots of winter fun.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the RiverWalk at Loon Mountain Resort
Woodstock Inn & Resort – Woodstock, VT
One of the best New England resorts year-round is the Woodstock Inn & Resort, but in the winter, it’s especially luxurious. It’s been named Vermont’s most beautiful address, and once you pull up, it’s hard not to see why.
Located in the heart of Woodstock’s picturesque village, you’ll find everything here from luxury accommodations, restaurants, a spa, and can even arrange private wine tasting, paired with local Vermont cheeses. There’s also easy access to the cross-country trails from the resort.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates % avilability at the Woodstock Inn & Resort
The White Barn Inn & Spa – Kennebunk, ME
Heading to the coast this winter for a weekend of restoration and pampering? You’ll definitely want to consider booking a stay at the White Barn Inn & Spa, located in Kennebunk, ME.
Just outside of Kennebunkport, you’ll find luxury accommodations here, as well as an incredible and cozy dining room in a gorgeous barn setting, overlooking snow-dusted pine trees. You can also enjoy amenities like a spa, fire pits outside with Adirondacks chairs and snuggly blankets, and seasonal cocktails that can be enjoyed by a fire place.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the White Barn Inn & Spa
Samoset Resort – Rockport, ME
The Samoset Resort is one of the best luxury experiences in Maine, especially in the winter. Located a short 5-minute drive from the charming town of Camden (home to the Snow Bowl mentioned earlier), this coastal winter getaway destination pulls out all the stops for a cozy winter weekend. You’ll find a spa here, as well as restaurants serving up comforting Italian dishes, a wine bar, and fire pits outdoors with cozy blankets. Select weekends in January also bring their very popular ice bar!
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Samoset Resort in Maine
Winter Getaways In New England For Families
The best winter getaways in New England for families are that offer plenty to do for everyone of all ages include:
→ Stowe, VT
→ Woodstock, VT
→ North Conway, NH
→ Lincoln, NH
→ Camden, ME
Best New England Winter Getaways For Non-Skiiers
If you know you won’t be clicking into skis any time soon, I’ve got you covered! Here are my picks for places that make for amazing New England winter vacations, where there’s so much more to do than ski:
→ Stowe, VT (even though it’s most known for its ski resort, it’s equally as exciting for non-skiers!)
→ Woodstock, VT
→ North Conway, NH (Nestlebrook Farms is amazing for non-skiers!)
→ Littleton, NH
→ Chatham, MA
→ Essex, CT
→ Portland, ME
→ Newport, RI
→ Mystic, CT
→ Kennebunkport, ME
→ Providence, RI
→ Boston, MA
Romantic New England Winter Getaways
For lots of romance on your New England winter vacation, you’ll definitely want to check out the section above on the Best Winter Resorts – most of those are incredibly romantic! And of those selections, I would say that the White Barn Inn and Woodstock Inn & Resort are the most romantic.
For another cozy and romantic option in Stowe, you’ll want to check out the Green Mountain Inn. Located right in the heart of the village on Main Street, you’ll be able to walk everywhere, and many of their cozy rooms come with jacuzzis.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Green Mountain Inn in Stowe
For a bonus suggestion, I highly suggest Quechee in Vermont! It’s very close to Woodstock, and you’ll easily be able to tackle both towns in a weekend. Quechee is also home to the Simon Pearce Restaurant & Mill, which was named America’s Most Romantic Restaurants by Travel + Leisure!
A great place to stay in Quechee is the Inn At Marshland Farm, which is more budget-friendly compared to the other popular resorts on this list, and is incredibly quaint and cozy. The rooms feature traditional-style New England designs, and you also get a hot breakfast included with your stay.
❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm
Psst! I also have an entire guide on Wonderfully Romantic Getaways From Boston, many of which are also fantastic in the winter, if you wanted to check out those suggestions 😉
Affordable New England Winter Vacations
When it comes to New England in the winter, all the popular ski and winter resort destinations will charge accordingly, but don’t fret! There are always budget-friendly places to stay.
In Stowe, a great little motel that I actually enjoy staying at is the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift. The prices are very budget-friendly, and the rooms are cozy and clean. Many of them come with efficiency kitchens, too. It’s also a very short drive to Main Street.
Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift
Since winter is off-season for the coastal destinations, you’ll also be able to find great deals in places like Kennebunkport, Cape Cod and Newport and other cities. Here are some places I recommend checking out for a budget-friendly winter getaway to these destinations:
- The Kennebunkport Inn – Kennebunkport
- Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina – Newport
- An English Garden – Dennis Port (Cape Cod)
- The Cove Motel – Orleans (Cape Cod)
- Boston Park Plaza – Boston
- Port Inn & Suites – Portsmouth
- Residence Inn Downtown – Providence
Important info on New England winter weather: The last couple of years, New England has been impacted by Global Warming, and winter has seen the biggest shift in weather patterns. Just in 2023 and 2024 alone during my winter travels, I’ve experienced -20°F wind chills, followed by days in the 50’s (F). Also, huge rain storms with winds over 50mph and flooding that took out buildings along the coast. And of course, just regular old snow.
All this to say, I highly suggest checking weather forecasts a few days prior to your trip, as experts are saying the new trend for winter in this region is extremes. While it’s generally cold and snowy, it’s also warm on some days, rainy on others, and everything in between.
What To Pack For New England In The Winter
Wondering what to pack for your New England winter getaway? I’m here to help! Here are some things you’ll want to consider bringing with you for your trip to stay warm and comfortable:
→ A good parka. I really like these from Eddie Bauer. I’ve been an Eddie Bauer parka wearer for years!
→ Warm boots. Depending on where you’ll going, you may only want a pair of short, stylish winter boots to walk around in like these, or you’ll want some warmer snow boots like these. Sorel boots are my ride or die for New England winters, and always keep my feet warm!
→ Good socks, especially if you plan to do a lot of outdoor activities. Need new winter socks for the trip? I can’t recommend these Darn Tough Socks enough! And they’re made right in New England (in VT), so it’s very appropriate for this trip. They’re an investment, but built to last, keep you warm and dry, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
→ Hats, gloves and scarves. I really like these North Face beanies for warmth and cozy style.
→ Base layers. If you plan to ski, or do any other outdoor activities, you’ll want to bring some performance base layers like long underwear or leggings. These affordable base layers on Amazon will do the trick!
→ Jeans and sweaters are perfect for days when you plan to just walk around and explore the local towns. I will often just layer up, and add a turtleneck under my sweaters for an added layer of warmth without being too warm.
You may also enjoy reading:
- Ultimate Guide For Visiting Kennebunkport At Christmas
- Christmas in New Hampshire: Where To Go & Festive Things To Do
- The Nantucket Christmas Stroll: Everything You Need To Know
- Magical Things To Do During Christmas In Maine
- Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
- Best Things To Do in Vermont in the Winter
- Best Things To Do in New Hampshire in the Winter
- Best Things To Do In Maine In The Winter
- Ways To Enjoy Winter On Nantucket
- Best Christmas Towns In New England
- New England Bucket List Things You Must See & Do!
- Best Time To Visit New England
That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Winter Getaways
And there you have it! Now that you know about all the very best New England winter getaways, hopefully you’re now feeling ready to plan your own winter adventure. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate ski towns like Stowe or North Conway, or you’re excited to just relax and get pampered at a resort and spa, there are so many incredible options to choose from. But the good news is, no matter where you go, it’s sure to be a magical getaway because the winter season in New England is simply beautiful.
