These 20 Romantic Getaways in New England Are the Stuff of Rom-Coms
Only the quaintest destinations for you, cuties.
Tell me you can't picture this exact scene: It’s Thursday night, and you and your boo have just spent another evening eating takeout in front of the TV. Don’t get me wrong, these nights can be amazing. I mean, you’re comfy, you’re in good company, and you don’t need to wear pants with buttons—the dream, essentially. But, sometimes the couch doesn’t cut it. Whether you have an anniversary on the horizon or are just looking for some extra-special bonding time, a change of scenery can be a game-changer in a relationship. And lucky for you, these United States are home to some of the most romantic getaways on the market. And I'm not talking about New York or Hawaii. I'm talking about good old New England.
In case you were doodling instead of paying attention in geography class, New England is a region in the Northeast that includes six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. From their quaint, antique charm to their incredible beaches, every New England state promises a vacation that’ll make you and your partner feel like the rom-com main characters you truly are. Plus, because New England is known for its distinct seasons—think gorgeous, snowy winters, picturesque, beachy summers, and the coziest postcard foliage moments come fall—you’re guaranteed a fab time no matter the time of year. (Because sometimes you neglect your PTO and need to use it when it's no longer warm, ya know?)
The region’s popularity can definitely lead to some high price tags, especially in peak season, but I've curated a list of 20 adorable inns and romantic getaways in New England that will keep your wallet intact (there’s also a splurge or two in there if you’re in that kinda mood). Now go forth and be adorable little East Coasters!
Mayflower Inn & Spa
Described on their website as “a portal to a simpler time,” this newly renovated country retreat is just two hours from NYC, in Washington, Connecticut. But don’t expect this getaway to be unsophisticated in the slightest–the aesthetic is incredibly chic and contemporary while still giving “your great-grandparents might have honeymooned here.” Be sure to get a couple’s treatment at their in-house spa—it’s actually a franchise of The Well, the famous spa brand—before treating yourselves to dinner at The Garden Room, their restaurant overlooking the (you guessed it) lush garden. It’s helmed by James Beard-Award-winning Chef Cortney Burns.
Mill Falls
Like having a packed schedule on vacation? You and your S.O. will never—I repeat NE-VER—find yourselves short on things to do at this resort on Lake Winnipesaukee in Meredith, New Hampshire. (Which is pet friendly, btw!) In addition to having lots of fab activities on site—like biking, paddle-boarding, yoga, and guided hiking—there’s also so much to do in and around the small town of Meredith. If you consider yourself an oenophile, stop by the Hermit Woods Winery for a glass or three. Or, if golfing is more your thing, pop on over to Waukewan Golf Club, just minutes away from the resort, for a little friendly competition/an excuse to wear that cute golfer-chic getup you never get to rock.
Seesaw’s Lodge
There’s just something about a well-preserved, centuries-old building that can get you all up in your feels, and this 100-year-old ski lodge, located in Peru, Vermont, is a hidden gem if I’ve ever seen one. Stop by in the chillier months for an honest-to-goodness winter wonderland—I'm talking skiing, ice skating, and sleigh rides before warming up by the fire—or during the summer season for hiking, fly fishing, horseback riding, and just taking in the beauty of Vermont’s Green Mountains. Each room has a fireplace, soaking tub, and heated floors, so you know you’ll never not be cozy.
Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa
If you’ve never thought about visiting New Hampshire before, allow me to put you on. While often overlooked, it’s actually one sexy hotspot, and this sprawling hotel takes up pretty much the entire island of New Castle, one of the oldest settlements in the state. For an extra-special stay, book a suite with an oceanfront view (you can also opt to stay in one of the turrets!) and take advantage of the spa and pools (indoor and outdoor, depending on what you’re feeling) before feasting at Latitudes, the in-house restaurant along the waterfront. If you’re down to leave the property—and you and your boo like to get a lil wet and wild—consider getting your float on at one of the three nearby state parks, or Water Country, New England’s largest waterpark.
Castle Hill Inn
Never have I ever felt so chic as the day I donned red lipstick to an alfresco lunch here, ate a lobster roll, and sipped rosé while overlooking the sailboat-filled water. This Newport, Rhode Island, inn, built in 1875(!), boasts 33 different accommodations—from cute little cottages on the dunes of their private beach to majestic suites inside the main mansion with panoramic views of the Narragansett Bay. Book early to ensure you get a room, as there are weddings galore throughout the warmer months (it’s that pretty, y’all) and you don’t want to miss out. Of course, you definitely have to grab lunch or dinner at The Lawn (that’s the name of their outdoor restaurant). Once you’re done with your meal you can take what’s left of your wine down to one of the Adirondack chairs by the water. Trust me: It’s pure bliss.
The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
If you and your permanent plus one are suckers for a little culture, then this boutique hotel in the Old Port District of Portland, Maine, is calling your name. Each room of the 110 rooms is designed to look like a journalist’s office in the 1920s, with moody furnishings (including vintage writers' desks) and newsroom references throughout. There’s also a two-story(!) installation of vintage typewriters off the lobby, in addition to an art gallery featuring local artists. How! Chic! Of course, there’s plenty to do, see, and eat in Portland, but if you’d prefer to stay close to your home away from home, you’ll still find yourself eatin’ good. The lobby bar, Inkwell, slings some strong cocktails, while the 65-seat in-house restaurant, UNION, partners with local farmers and fishermen to serve the freshest fare possible.
Wequassett Resort & Golf Club
It doesn’t get much more quintessential Cape Cod than this resort in Harwich, Massachusetts, where you’ll find an ocean view damn near everywhere you look. A quick scroll through their Insta will have you feeling like you can taste the salt in the air and feel a sea breeze fluttering through your hair, with images of nautical cottages, white-sand beaches, and luxe waterside dining (bring on the lobstah rolls). Pack your best coastal grandmother-chic getups and spend a long weekend here. You won’t regret it, and you’ll probably (definitely) feel like a Kennedy.
Ocean House
Okay, hear me out. This spot is bougie, but she’s so worth the $$$. Yes, I’m talking about Ocean House, the five-star beach resort in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. And yes, Swifties, Watch Hill is indeed where T-Swift owns her famous Holiday House mansion. (Hey Alexa, play The Last Great American Dynasty.) Built in 1868, the iconic yellow hotel has seen many vacationers over the past couple of centuries, and a stay today will make you feel like you’re living in a golden age. Each of the 49 rooms and 18 suites is decorated in classic East Coast style (those shutters tho!), and the resort as a whole can be described as updated (and upscale) Victorian. Sign up for one of the various complimentary activities, like wine-tasting classes and croquet on the lawn, or indulge with a spa treatment or trip to the Secret Garden, where you can sip on champagne while scarfing down crepes.
Harbor View Hotel
Voila: the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown, Massachusetts. Yes, the view seems far too good to be true but that's just the beginning, my friends. This hotel recently underwent a major revamp and now offers gems like private yoga classes, a heated outdoor pool, and golf carts to transport you wherever you want to go on the island. If the miles and miles of bike paths (bikes are complimentary, btw) don't keep you and bae occupied, you can always take a day trip to Chappaquiddick Island for some serene nature vibes.
Barnstead Inn
This family-run inn in Manchester, Vermont, has only 20 rooms, making it the perfect place for an intimate getaway. Be sure to spoil yourselves with their in-room massage offerings and, if you happen to be blessed with snow, definitely check out the horse-drawn sleigh rides nearby.
Blind Tiger Guest House
Next up: Portland, Maine. If you choose to stay at the Blind Tiger Guest House, you guys will be cozying up in an updated 19th century home just steps away from Portland's Art District and Old Port Exchange—a hub for the city's best restaurants and shops on the waterfront. In addition to complimentary breakfast, you can also expect access to an all-day pantry and a community billiard room for a fabulous Old Hollywood situation.
Chatham Bars Inn
There's nothing like classic Cape Cod, especially when you're waking up to this insane, ocean sunrise at the Chatham Bars Inn. With a quarter-mile stretch of private beach, a cozy library, and spa, you'll absolutely have a hard time leaving. The main house rooms are adorbs, but if you're looking to make your getaway extra special, book one of the private cottages for top-tier quality time.
AWOL Kennebunkport
As their website so perfectly states, a stay at AWOL in Kennebunkport, Maine, means being in the middle of it all while feeling like you're in the middle of nowhere. This brand-new retreat is just walking distance from Kennebunkport's Dock Square (shopping, art galleries, bars, etc.) but its wood cabins and rustic main house will make you feel blissfully out of touch. Wanna get some fresh air? I definitely recommend bonding over a kayaking trip down the Kennebunkport Marina.
The Inn at Stonington
The Inn at Stonington, Connecticut, is just a car ride away from a few major east coast cities. With 18 uniquely decorated rooms—complete with fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs, might I add—this inn will make Slack notifications and subway platforms feel like distant memories. You'll also have tons to explore, from hiking trails to winery tours (you have to go to Saltwater Farm Vineyard on a summer night). Oh, and did I mention the beach?
Getaway House
You may have already heard about Getaway House from pictures of their iconic wood and glass cabins on your Instagram feed. Luckily, they have a new location in Moodus, Connecticut. In addition to a kitchen and fire pit, Getaway House promotes a tech-free stay by providing boxes for your phones (love that for you!) and lots of books and games to keep you occupied. Not that you'll really need those on your romantic getaway!
Briar Barn Inn
Just 30 miles from Boston, the Briar Barn Inn in Rowley, Massachusetts, is perfect for couples who like to stay right in the heart of town. With Main Street just a few steps away, you can explore the Witch History Museum and raid antique shops before returning to the fireplace and flat-screen TV in your room. If this isn't the best of both worlds, idk what is.
The Inn at Burklyn
This estate-turned-dorm-turned-inn is a bit more of a splurge but, I mean, look at it! Located in East Burke, Vermont, this gorgeous hotel has not only on-site stables and barns for horseback riding, and mountaintop yoga classes, but also direct access to hiking trails and snow sports if you're visiting in the winter. Plus, if you're looking to venture out into town, you can catch tons of classic film screenings and even ballet performances at the Catamount Arts Center. It's so perfect, I could cry!
Inn at Hastings Park
This adorable, 22-room inn in Lexington, Massachusetts, is the picture-perfect getaway for couples who low-key love American history. Not only is the hotel's décor sprinkled with hints of Revolutionary War memorabilia, but the inn is surrounded by tons of wartime landmarks and exhibits. Plus, homes that belonged to authors like Louisa May Alcott are just around the corner and available for tours. Looking for something to do within the hotel grounds? No prob, just sign up for one of their private cooking classes for a perfectly chill (and delish) bonding activity. Check, check, and check.
Terramor Outdoor Resort
If you thought you knew a thing or two about glamping, literally forget all of it because the Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine has officially taken things to the next level. See that two-person room with its own fire pit, diffuser, screened porch, and tons of coffee and wine glasses for you to use as you wish? Yeah, that's your "tent" for the night. Oh, and did I mention the hotel has a pool, hot tub, and restaurant too? AND they provide telescopes for super-cute stargazing date nights? Book. It. Now.
The Inn at Castle Hill
Located in Ipswich, Massachusetts, The Inn at Castle Hill radiates romantic vibes all year long. No, not just because of its perfectly dainty and thoughtful décor, but because it's also a wildly popular wedding venue (*wink*)! Seriously, though, this makes it super hard to book rooms at the last minute, so definitely be sure to plan in advance.
Anyways, if you like hotels that cover all of your needs, this inn will have you and your boo set with daily homemade breakfast, complimentary access to Crane Beach (one of the best on the east coast, apparently), and a ton of activities on the property—from guided nature hikes to live theater.
Mikhaila is an Editorial Intern who loves all things entertainment and pop culture. Her passions include (but are not limited to): The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott, 70s furniture, and lots, and lots of Daria. If you want to see what she’s up to, you can follow her on Instagram here.
Hannah Chubb is the associate lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things home, travel, food, health, career, and more. She spends pretty much every hour of every day curating the internet for the best new products, trends, and travel destinations. You can typically find her looking for houses she can’t afford on Zillow or Airbnb, planning her next meal before she gets to the restaurant, or taking all of the Justin Bieber classes over and over and over again on Peloton. Follow her on Instagram.
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