7 Overlooked Towns In New England Worth Visiting
When people think of New England, popular destinations like Boston, Newport, and Burlington often come to mind. While these places are certainly worth a trip, the region is also home to countless smaller towns that provide a different kind of getaway. These communities, scattered from the coast of Maine to the hills of Connecticut, are full of history, personality, and things to do. Skipping the major tourist hubs can lead to discovering quiet beaches, winding country roads, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Towns like the historic seaport of Warren or the mountain town of Norfolk provide a look into another side of New England life that many travelers miss. This list will guide you to seven lesser-known spots that are absolutely worth a visit for your next trip. They have all the personality of their more famous counterparts, but with fewer crowds and more opportunities for genuine discovery.
Castine, Maine
One of Maine's oldest towns, Castine, is often bypassed by travelers on Route 1 due to its remote peninsula location. The town is filled with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture from its maritime past. It has a quiet, academic feel, partly because of the Maine Maritime Academy. The walkable streets are lined with elm trees, providing views of Penobscot Bay from nearly every corner. It's a destination for people interested in history, sailing, or a quiet spot on the Maine coast.
For a small town, Castine has a surprising number of attractions. The Wilson Museum presents a fascinating collection focused on cultural development from prehistory to local history. History buffs can also check out the town's old forts, Fort George and Fort Madison, which tell the story of the area's role in the American Revolution and the War of 1812. For those looking to get on the water, Castine Kayak Adventures runs daytime and nighttime tours with knowledgeable guides in the bay. If you're visiting in late July, don't miss the Castine Classic Yacht Race, which brings a fleet of classic wooden boats to the harbor for a spectacular sight.
Warren, Vermont
In the Mad River Valley, Warren is surrounded by the Green Mountains and thrives in all seasons. Winter draws skiers, while summer brings opportunities for hiking and swimming. The small town center features a classic general store and a close-knit community. It’s a place to unwind, whether jumping into a swimming hole or driving through the valley.
One of the most iconic sights in town is the Historic Warren Covered Bridge, a classic red bridge that spans the Mad River and is perfect for a photo op. A short distance away are the Warren Falls, where a brief path leads to a series of stepped waterfalls and deep, natural swimming holes popular for cliff jumping on hot summer days. The nearby Sugarbush Resort provides year-round recreation, with fantastic skiing in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and golf in the warmer months. For something a little different, stop by Three Shepherds Farm to meet some friendly sheep and learn how to make cheese from the local artisans.
Little Compton, Rhode Island
While Newport often steals the spotlight, Little Compton remains a quiet coastal farming town that feels far removed from city life. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Sakonnet River, it has rolling farmland, stone walls, vineyards, and winding roads leading to the sea. With no commercial overdevelopment, it’s a place of farm stands and quiet beaches, inviting people to slow down and appreciate the salt air and simpler living.
One of the main draws here is the coastline. Goosewing Beach Preserve is a pristine stretch of sand with decent waves and sparse crowds, making it a great place for a relaxing day by the water. For a nice walk through the woods, head to the nearby Wilbour Woods, which has well-maintained trails. Animal lovers will have a great time at Hope Alpaca Farm LLC, where you can take a farm tour and get to know the resident alpacas. After a day of activity, grab a pastry and coffee at the Art Cafe, a cozy spot that often features live music on the weekends. It’s a great way to wind down and connect with the local community.
Norfolk, Connecticut
In the Litchfield Hills, Norfolk is nicknamed the "icebox of Connecticut" for its cooler temperatures, but its inviting atmosphere makes it a great destination year-round. The town is known for its impressive architecture, including many Victorian homes and a notable structure on the village green. Surrounded by state parks and forests, it’s a haven for nature lovers. The town has a strong arts scene, anchored by a historic music hall and a summer arts festival. Norfolk remains relatively under the radar, providing a quiet alternative to some of the more bustling towns in the Litchfield Hills region.
Nature is a big part of the appeal here. Just outside of town, Campbell Falls State Park features a short hiking trail that leads to a lovely waterfall cascading over a rock ledge. For a great view of the surrounding hills, hike to the top of Haystack Mountain in Haystack Mountain State Park. The 1,680-foot peak is topped with a stone observation tower that provides panoramic views of the area. During the summer, the town hosts Friday Nights on the Green, a free music series that brings the community together. For a more formal show, check the schedule at the Infinity Music Hall, a 300-seat theater built in 1883 that hosts a wide variety of musical acts in an intimate setting.
Harrisville, New Hampshire
Harrisville is a small mill town in the Monadnock region, recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It is the only 19th-century American textile village that remains in its original form. The red brick mills and white houses around Harrisville Pond create a striking scene. While it has few commercial attractions, Harrisville appeals to those interested in history and craftsmanship. The town has a strong community spirit, with many artisans living there.
The heart of the town is Harrisville Designs, Inc., a woolen mill that has been spinning yarn in the historic mills for 50 years. You can visit the retail shop to buy yarn and other woolen goods and see the beautiful mill buildings up close. Before you do, grab breakfast at the Harrisville General Store. Operating since 1838, this historic spot serves breakfast, lunch, and baked goods in a classic setting. The surrounding area is also great for getting outside. You can rent a kayak or canoe and paddle on Lake Skatutakee and/or Harrisville Pond, both of which provide great views of Mount Monadnock and the surrounding landscape.
New Shoreham, Block Island, Rhode Island
Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, New Shoreham on Block Island feels far removed from the everyday. Block Island stands out with its rugged landscapes, rolling hills, dramatic bluffs, and miles of stone walls. Nearly half of the island is protected as open space, making it great for walkers and cyclists. The main town is small and easy to get around, but the island’s true appeal lies in its trails and beaches.
The island is home to two historic lighthouses. The Southeast Lighthouse is an imposing Gothic Revival structure from 1874, perched on top of dramatic cliffs, while the Block Island North Light is a sturdy brown stone lighthouse built in 1867 at the island's northern tip. The island is also famous for its many white sand beaches, from the lively Ballard's Beach to the more secluded Mansion Beach and Frederick J. Benson Town Beach. For a spectacular walk, head to the Clay Head Preserve, a 190-acre parcel with some of the island's most incredible scenery. And for a family-friendly activity, don't miss Abrams Animal Farm, a free, family-run farm with exotic creatures from camels to chickens.
Putney, Vermont
Putney, in southeastern Vermont, is known for its history in progressive education and crafts. The town is home to artisans, farmers, and writers, giving it a creative, independent vibe. Surrounded by rolling hills, apple orchards, and winding roads, it’s a spot where you can connect with local producers and the working landscape of rural Vermont.
Fall is a particularly great time to visit for apple picking at Green Mountain Orchards Inc. In the spring, you can see maple syrup being made at Harlow's Sugar House, where they produce and sell maple products right in their store. For cheese lovers, a stop at Vermont Shepherd LLC is a must. This farm has a self-serve stand where you can buy a selection of their award-winning cheeses and sheep-milk gelato. If you're looking to stretch your legs, the Putney Mountain Hike is a great option. The 5.6 miles of trails wind through forested uplands and offer several loop options for hikers with rewarding views from the summit.
New England is much more than its well-trodden tourist trails. By venturing off the beaten path, you can find places that show a different, more personal side of the region. A town like Castine, with its deep maritime history and quiet streets, provides a peaceful look at coastal Maine life away from the crowds. Similarly, getting on a ferry to New Shoreham on Block Island opens up a world of rolling hills and undeveloped coastline that feels a world away from the mainland.
These towns, and others like them, are the heart of New England. They are places where the pace is slower, the communities are strong, and the scenery is just as rewarding as any of the more famous destinations. So next time you're planning a trip to the Northeast, think about taking a turn off the main road. You might just find your new favorite spot.
