Massachusetts

Plimoth Patuxet

Plymouth

Turn back the clock to pilgrim times at Plimoth Patuxet, which recreates Plymouth Colony and the home of the indigenous Patuxet people. Here, you can speak with knowledgeable interpreters in full costume, learn the truth about the first Thanksgiving and even climb aboard a replica of a 17th century ship. AAA members can get up to 10% off admission.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Boston

Live the elementary-school fantasy of dumping tea in the harbor at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. You can learn from live actors, take part in interactive exhibits and explore full-scale replicas of the ships. AAA members can save on admission.

Walden Pond

Concord

The serenity of this famous Massachusetts pond inspired Henry David Thoreau to pen his iconic book “Walden,” an ode to the simplicity of living in nature. Don’t let the name fool you, this pond is more than 60 acres in size. 

Concord is the site of the first Revolutionary War conflict on April 19. 1775. Guests can learn about the town’s historical importance with stops at local museums, parks and memorial sites. 

Decades after the war, several notable authors called Concord home. This included Thoreau’s friend Ralph Waldo Emerson, whose house is open to the public. Just north of the pond sits Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, where she wrote “Little Women.”

New York

American Museum of Natural History

New York City

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the greatest museums in the world, featuring folk art, anthropological recreations, geological wonders, dinosaur fossils, a butterfly vivarium, cultural artifacts and more. If you want to visit, remember that AAA members can save up to 16% on admission.

Central Park

New York City

There’s a reason Central Park is so iconic — there’s not a bad patch in its entire 843 acres. Relax in its wide-open settings like the Sheep Meadow or the Great Lawn or explore the picturesque landmarks like the Bethesda Terrace Arcade, Bow Bridge or Belvedere Castle. The idyllic Central Park Conservatory Garden features formal landscaping and seasonal plantings that sprawl across 6 acres. 

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

One of the world’s natural wonders, Niagara Falls is a beloved phenomenon sharing borders with the United States and Canada. Visitors can choose to take in the views from multiple observation decks, explore the surrounding parks and attractions or see the falls up close on a boat tour — don’t forget your parka!

Maine

Acadia National Park

Mount Desert Island

Acadia National Park and the whole of Mount Desert Island in northern Maine offer countless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, picnicking and even taking tea by a lakeside. The extreme northern location and limited accessibility by car across the narrow northern isthmus that connects the large island to the mainland make this a challenging day trip from many parts of New England. But if you live in or are visiting Maine, the location is ideal.

Rhode Island

Roger Williams Park

Providence

Named after the founder of Providence, Roger Williams Park’s sprawling 427 acres contain a zoo, a botanical center, a museum of natural history, a planetarium, Japanese and Victorian rose gardens, a boathouse, a carousel village and more. One of the most delightful parts of the park is the Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in America. The zoo is home to over 100 animal species, from chickens to cheetahs. You could spend a whole day in this incredible park.

Rhode Island

Living Sharks Museum

Westerly

Dedicated to advancing shark preservation through education, this small museum stakes its claim as being the first shark museum in the United States. It features artifacts from around the world, including an exhibit on the movie “Jaws” in celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2025. Admission is free.

Electromagnetic Pinball Museum and Restoration

Pawtucket

The museum states its mission is “to foster a love and appreciation for history, science technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through interactive pinball exhibits.” Museum programs educate the public about the need to preserve pinball machines and celebrate their contributions to art, history, science and technology. But of course, playing is important as well.

Connecticut

Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry

Storrs

This museum houses some 3,000 puppets from around the world and regularly hosts performances, workshops and forums. Connected with the University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts, the Ballard Museum seeks to educate visitors about the history and future of this revered theatrical artform. Admission to the museum is free.

PEZ Vistor Center

Orange

PEZ has been supplying the world with its iconic interactive candy since 1927. The family-friendly company offers tours through the colorful world of PEZ dispensers at its visitor center. Here, you’ll learn about the storied history of PEZ, work your way through interactive games and exhibits and see the world’s largest PEZ dispenser and vintage dispenser museum. Guests can even design their own PEZ dispenser.

Vermont

Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Waterbury

Vermont’s famed Ben & Jerry’s Factory was built in 1985 and produces upward of 350,000 pints per day. The tour starts with a short movie about how founders Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield started their ice cream kingdom, followed by a sneak peek at the ice cream-making process and how it gets packaged in those legendary pint containers. Of course, you’ll get a flavor sample to whet your appetite. After the tour, visit the Scoop Shop to satisfy your craving and peruse the Flavor Graveyard of retired flavors.

Maine

International Cryptozoology Museum

Portland

Cryptozoology refers to the study of creatures that might be real, like bigfoot, Mothman or the Loch Ness Monster. If this subject sounds intriguing, you’ll want to head to Portland, home of the International Cryptozoology Museum. Here, you’ll find countless artifacts about mysterious creatures from urban legend, folklore and mythology. 

New York

Museum at Bethel Woods

Bethel

This museum is dedicated to the legacy of the Woodstock Music Festival of 1969, which took place on the same property when it was privately owned farmland. Exhibits include a lot of psychedelic artifacts, film clips of the festival and oral histories from those who were there. Bethel Woods continues to host music festivals, of course.

Howe Caverns

Howes Cave

At Howe Caverns, you’ll be amazed by cave formations, underground streams and expansive chambers. A 90-minute guided tour traces the cave’s exhilarating discovery story. Wander through enormous rooms and under super-size boulders on a 1¼ mile walk and quarter-mile boat ride, all while 150 feet below the Earth’s surface. Specialty tours, including a two-hour lantern tour and a two-hour family flashlight tour, help bring to life the thrill of Lester Howe’s discovery of the caves in 1842.

The Big Duck

Flanders

The Big Duck is a Long Island landmark. At 20 feet tall and 30 feet long, it’s about a zillion times bigger than a normal duck, give or take. Originally built in 1931 by farmer Martin Maurer, the duck advertised the eggs and ducks that were for sale within. The Big Duck is so iconic that the word duck is commonly used to describe novelty architecture that resembles the item it’s advertising.

You can’t buy ducks inside the Big Duck anymore, but you can buy souvenirs. The duck is also filled with memorabilia that tracks its journey over the past century. Duck docents within can give you a history of the duck, plus recommendations on what to do nearby.

New Jersey

Lucy the Elephant

Margate

The Big Duck isn’t the region’s only giant animal structure built as a marketing ploy. Just outside Atlantic City you’ll find Lucy the Elephant. This six-story elephant-shaped structure was originally constructed by real estate developer James Lafferty in 1891 to help draw potential customers to his land. Not long after, a hotel was built around Lucy, drawing guests from near and far. In 1976, Lucy the Elephant was designated a National Historic Landmark. Lucy the Elephant is still open for business. Guests can visit, tour and even spend the night.

New Jersey

Barnegat Lighthouse

Barnegat

Located in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Barnegat Lighthouse was constructed in 1859 on the northern tip of Long Beach Island to help maritime pilots avoid the shoals and shifting sandbars along the shoreline. Each year, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, visitors can climb the 217 steps to take in the scenic views from the top of the lighthouse. At the Interpretive Center, visitors can check out the lighthouse’s history and learn about the changing nature of the coastline surrounding the lighthouse.

Rhode Island

Beavertail Lighthouse

Jamestown

Located on the southernmost tip of Jamestown overlooking Narragansett Bay, the Beavertail Lighthouse stands at 64 feet high. Constructed in 1856, the current structure is the third to stand at the site, which was home to the third lighthouse in the colonies.

While the lighthouse museum is open seasonally from May through October, the lighthouse is open for climbing on specific dates, so check the online calendar to see if dates match up with your visit. If they do, you can climb the 49-step spiral staircase and 7-foot ladder to reach the observation catwalk. At the top, you will be rewarded with gorgeous 360-degree views.

Connecticut

The Lighthouse Museum

Stonington

Constructed in 1840, this lighthouse stands sentry at the entrance to Stonington's harbor. Featuring stonework, ornamental cornices and granite lintels above the doorways and windows, the lighthouse looks a bit different than many lighthouses. Visitors who climb the 29 circular steps and ladder to reach the top will enjoy views of Long Island Sound as well as three states (Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York). Open seasonally from May through December, the site includes the lighthouse and museum, which holds artifacts from Stonington’s maritime and agricultural history, as well as relics that predate the lighthouse and document the city’s earliest history.

New York

Montauk Point Lighthouse

Montauk

The first lighthouse in New York, Montauk Point Lighthouse was built in 1796 to overlook the Block Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Following an addition in 1860, the lighthouse now stands more than 110 feet tall, with 137 iron steps to the top. Today, visitors can tour the museum to learn more about the lighthouse, including the role it played in American maritime history, and climb to the top for a panoramic view.

Massachusetts

Nauset Light

Eastham

Since 1838, maritime pilots have relied on the light shining from the coast of Eastham to help them find their way around the coastline of Cape Cod. The latest structure, Nauset Light, was constructed in 1877. Today, visitors can take a free tour of the lighthouse to learn its history, climb the 48-foot-high tower and visit the lookout room. You’ll find a calendar on the lighthouse’s website with tour dates and times so you can plan your visit.

New York

Oswego West Pierhead Lighthouse

Oswego

The Oswego West Pierhead Lighthouse on Lake Ontario was built in 1934 overlooking Oswego Harbor. Visitors can reach the lighthouse by boat for a tour offered by the H. Lee White Maritime Museum June through September. Take time to explore the museum and see the original fourth-order Fresnel lens.

Rhode Island

Rose Island Lighthouse

Newport

Constructed in 1869, the Rose Island Lighthouse lit up for the first time on Jan. 20, 1870 over Narragansett Bay. It operated until 1970, when it was decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard. In 1985, the lighthouse was deeded to the City of Newport, and, through the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation, was restored and returned to private operation in 1993. Today, visitors can take the Jamestown Newport Ferry to the island from May through October to tour the lighthouse and the Fort Hamilton barracks. You can even stay overnight!

New York

Lake Placid

Perhaps best known for hosting the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid is a hot spot (or should we say, cold spot) for winter sports. This cute village in the Adirondacks offers Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, bobsledding, skating, snowboarding, ice climbing and has quick access to Whiteface Mountain.

No snow? No problem! Lake Placid is filled with new mountain bike trails weaving through dense foliage, hiking trails, rock climbing, and kayaking and canoeing on Mirror Lake. After you’ve had your fill of outdoor adventure, go shopping and dining along picturesque Main Street. Grab a mug of hot chocolate and get cozy.

Cooperstown

If you’re a fan of America’s favorite pastime, Cooperstown is definitely one of the best small towns to visit. Billed as “America’s Most Perfect Village,” Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum. There, you can experience the storied tradition of baseball in America through exhibits on topics like the history of baseball cards, the evolution of the sport from 1970 to the present day, the bronze plaques honoring those in the Hall of Fame and more.

While you’re in town, visit Doubleday Field, where some say baseball was invented in 1839. Not a baseball person? Check out the Fenimore Art Museum, which features fine art, folk art, photography and more. If you’re staying overnight, head to the Otesaga Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond designated luxurious and historical resort.

Connecticut

Essex

Known colloquially as “the perfect small town,” Essex is surrounded on three sides by the Connecticut River. You can get a great view of the river at the central town dock, which is home to the Connecticut River Museum. A must-do on any visit to Essex is a ride on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat to experience the beauty of the

Connecticut River Valley. Staying in town overnight? Try sleeping in one of the cozy beds at the Griswold Inn, which first opened its doors in 1776. You can also get a bite to eat and listen to some live music in its lively tap room.

Mystic

This former whaling village has so much to offer, and it’s almost a completely walkable small town. Go back in time at the Mystic Seaport Museum, journey below the waves at the Mystic Aquarium and enjoy the dining and shopping opportunities at Olde Mistick Village. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a slice at the iconic Mystic Pizza.

Rhode Island

Newport

Those looking for an oceanside getaway with a dose of opulence and old-world charm should have Newport on their lists. The historic Newport Mansions show off the finest in American architecture from the Colonial Era to the Gilded Age. Once you finish exploring the homes, take some time to walk the expansive grounds and enjoy the spectacular ocean views. Don’t forget the iconic Cliff Walk along the rugged and beautiful shoreline.

Vermont

Stowe

The hills are alive in Stowe, one of the greatest ski towns in the Northeast and one of the most beautiful small towns in America. This “Ski Capital of the East” is nestled between the Worcester Range and the Green Mountains, including Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in the state. Skiing and snowboarding are the way to play in Stowe, featuring the birthplace of alpine skiing on the trails of Mount Mansfield.

There are many resorts to choose from when you’re planning your Stowe vacation, including Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, Stowe Mountain Resort and the AAA Three Diamond designated von Trapp Family Lodge, founded and run by the actual von Trapp family portrayed in “The Sound of Music.” It’s no surprise that the beautiful Stowe vistas reminded them of their native Austria.

New Jersey

Clinton

The picture-perfect streets of Clinton offer small-town charm in the Garden State. Start your visit by going to the open-air Red Mill Museum Village along the South Branch Raritan River. The museum covers 10 acres and contains 12 historical buildings, including a schoolhouse, log cabin, blacksmith shop and the Red Mill itself. In another historical mill you can find the Hunterdon Art Museum, which has a focus on contemporary art and fine art prints.

Cape May

The seaside resort city of Cape May looks like something out of a storybook, filled with colorful Victorian gingerbread architecture and sun-drenched beaches. While you’re relaxing or walking along the beach, you might even find a Cape May diamond — a clear quartz pebble that has washed down from the Delaware River. Enhance your experience with a whale-watching excursion, a visit to the Historic Cold Spring Village living history museum or a trip to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse. And don’t miss your chance to try the seafood at the Lobster House before you leave.

Maine

Bar Harbor

This family-friendly destination has something for everyone. There’s the beautiful Maine coast for water lovers, where you can enjoy the view, go for a swim, or rent a kayak and create your own personal adventure. You can also head into Acadia National Park where early risers can catch the sun coming up along the rocky shoreline and spend the day exploring the many hiking trails found throughout the park. After a busy day, take some time to wander downtown and see the shops, from art galleries to specialty food and clothing stores. And don’t forget the lobster!

Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard

A trip to Martha’s Vineyard starts with a ferry ride to the island, and yes, you can bring your car along. Once there, get ready for winding country roads and incredible views around every corner. The streets are full of unique shops featuring art, clothes and all manner of souvenirs. Rent a bike to explore the island or catch a show at Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse. This is the place to see and be seen, so keep your eyes open for celebrities.

Provincetown

Affectionately known as P-town, Provincetown has a long and storied history, from its roots as an artists’ colony to its popularity as an LGBTQ vacation destination.

Small-town New England streets combine with a Bohemian streak of creative energy to create one of the most unique towns in the Northeast. Visitors love the beaches, of course, but you should also check out some of the local attractions, like the nationally recognized Provincetown Art Association and Museum, Pilgrim Monument, the Province Lands Bike Trail and more. Can’t decide what to do? There’s no better way to spend a day in P-town than strolling along the busy and colorful Commercial Street.

Stockbridge

If you’ve ever wanted to step straight into a Norman Rockwell painting, head to Stockbridge, the inspiration for Rockwell’s “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas.” It has to be one of the coziest small towns in America if it has his stamp of approval. Art lovers can enjoy the Norman Rockwell Museum here as well as the town’s various historical buildings, the Tanglewood Music Center and the Berkshire Theatre Festival. You can even stay the night at the Red Lion Inn — from the painting!

New Hampshire

White Mountains

The White Mountains cover roughly one quarter of the state of New Hampshire. The region is home to the White Mountain National Forest as well as several state parks.

The mountain range contains numerous hiking trails that can lead to waterfalls and scenic outlooks, or all the way to the top. Although these are some of the most rugged mountains in the Northeast, the view from the top is worth the effort.

If you enjoy staying grounded, take a drive along the Kancamagus Highway. This 34-mile stretch of road carves through the mountains, running alongside several rivers.

New York

Letchworth State Park

Any place known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” certainly has some big shoes to fill. But Letchworth State Park, in western New York, lives up to the billing.

Instead of the Colorado River, it’s the Genesee River that carves through the gorge, traveling over three major waterfalls and reaching heights of 600 feet. The park has more than 60 miles of hiking trails, ensuring you’ll be able to find the perfect lookout spot to witness the bucolic sights.

Connecticut

Heublein Tower

Heublein Tower sits atop Talcott Mountain in Simsbury, Connecticut. The 165-foot structure was built in 1914 and originally served as a summer home for a prominent local family.

Today it’s known for providing some of the best views of the Nutmeg State and beyond. Perched atop the 1,000-foot-tall mountain, visitors to Heublein Tower are provided with panoramic views of the Farmington River Valley, Long Island Sound and the Berkshires. You may even catch a glimpse of Mount Monadnock, 80 miles away in New Hampshire.

Massachusetts

The Aquinnah Cliffs

Beyond the gingerbread-style homes and the postcard-esque downtowns lies an even finer sight on Martha’s Vineyard: the Aquinnah Cliffs. This natural wonder, carved by glaciers millions of years ago, rises up from the beach on the island’s southwestern tip.

Visitors can walk along the beach below to get an up-close view of the clay cliffs, which are unlike any type of formation you’ll likely see on a New England beach. Guests can also take the upper trails to catch a glimpse of the Gay Head Light and nearby Elizabeth Islands.

The Berkshires

The Berkshires, a region of mountains and forests in western Massachusetts, has long been known as one of the most scenic locations in the Northeast. It’s at its best once the temperatures drop, becoming a premier destination for fall foliage. Your best bet for picturesque views is taking a drive along the Mohawk Trail. The road, now a designated scenic tourist route, carves through the Berkshire mountains for more than 60 miles.

Maine

Cadillac Mountain

No list of top scenic locations in the Northeast is complete without Cadillac Mountain, a top attraction within Acadia National Park — and for good reason. For several months of the year, visitors who trek to the top early enough can be the first to witness the sunrise in the United States.

Even if you miss the morning light, a trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain is a worthy sightseeing expedition. At 1,500 feet, it’s the highest peak on the Eastern Seaboard. Visitors can experience an unparalleled 360-degree view of Maine’s coast along with lush greenery and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

New York/Vermont

Lake Champlain

Vermont may be a landlocked state, but one look at Lake Champlain will have you forgetting all about the ocean. With nearly 600 miles of shoreline and 71 islands, there’s more than enough territory to explore and take in the sights. There are three bridges crossing the lake, connecting Vermont to New York, creating the perfect opportunity for a picturesque drive.

The surrounding region is just as eye-catching. Endless trees cover the hillsides and the nearby Adirondacks tower to the west. There are also miles of trails perfect for a short hike. Visitors who make it to the end are gifted with spectacular vistas as far as the eye can see.