If you’re dreaming of a family getaway packed with charm, adventure, and memory-making moments, New England is full of hidden gems and beloved favorites. From whimsical theme parks to hands-on museums and seaside towns, there’s no shortage of places that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full summer vacation, here are 10 great spots in New England to visit with kids.
1. Story Land – Glen, New Hampshire
📍 White Mountains, NH
A classic for a reason! Story Land is a fairy tale themed amusement park designed with younger kids in mind. There’s rides, shows, and characters all inspired by nursery rhymes and storybooks. It’s clean, family friendly, and just the right size for a full day of fun without feeling overwhelming.
Don’t miss: The Cinderella pumpkin coach ride and the splash pad on hot days.
2. Boston Children’s Museum – Boston, Massachusetts
📍 Downtown Boston
One of the oldest and best children’s museums in the country! This hands on wonderland is full of STEM activities, art projects, and imagination fueled exhibits like the giant bubble room and three-story climbing structure.
Bonus: It’s right along the Fort Point Channel, so you can follow it up with a walk or lunch by the water.
3. Mystic Aquarium – Stonington, Connecticut
📍 Southeastern CT
This coastal town is home to one of the best aquariums in New England. Kids can see beluga whales, sea lions, penguins, and even touch stingrays. The layout is stroller-friendly, and there’s plenty to do rain or shine.
Pair it with: A visit to the nearby Mystic Seaport Museum for a day full of maritime history.
4. Santa’s Village – Jefferson, New Hampshire
📍 Northern NH
If you’re looking for holiday cheer all summer long (like me), Santa’s Village is a must. With Christmas themed rides, reindeer you can feed, and even a water park area, it’s a magical destination for young kids and believers alike.
Pro tip: Bring bathing suits for the splash zone!
5. The Polar Caves – Rumney, New Hampshire
📍 Western NH
Cool (literally!) and adventurous, the Polar Caves are a natural attraction that lets kids explore winding rock passages and crevices formed during the Ice Age. There’s also a petting zoo, mining station, and picnic areas.
Great for: A break from the summer heat or a low-tech day of discovery.
6. Newport Cliff Walk – Newport, Rhode Island
📍 Southern RI
If your kids are up for a bit of walking, the Cliff Walk offers incredible ocean views with some fun mansion-spotting along the way. Pack snacks and take your time! There are safe, stroller accessible portions for littles.
Nearby: Easton’s Beach has a carousel and snack shack, great for post-walk rewards.
7. Echo Lake & Cathedral Ledge – North Conway, New Hampshire
📍 Mt. Washington Valley
This area offers everything: a calm lake for swimming and paddling, family-friendly hiking trails, and stunning views from Cathedral Ledge (you can drive to the top!). It’s the perfect picnic-and-play type of outing.
Tip: Grab sandwiches from a local deli and enjoy lunch with a view.
8. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour – Waterbury, Vermont
📍 Central VT
A sweet stop kids will remember forever! The factory tour is quick, fun, and ends with ice cream samples. Plus, the silly “Flavor Graveyard” adds some extra giggles.
Also nearby: The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Shelburne makes a great companion stop.
9. The Eric Carle Museum – Amherst, Massachusetts
📍 Western MA
Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other beloved books. This museum celebrates picture book art with colorful exhibits, story times, and art-making studios.
Don’t miss: The gift shop, it’s one of the cutest around!
10. Acadia National Park – Bar Harbor, Maine
📍 Downeast Maine
For families who love nature and adventure, Acadia is a dream. You can hike, bike, explore tidepools, or take a scenic drive up Cadillac Mountain. There’s something for every age and ability.
Insider tip: Jordan Pond House has kid-friendly lunches and the famous popovers with jam.
New England is full of places that invite kids to play, explore, and make memories. Whether you’re riding a pumpkin coach, splashing in a lake, or enjoying Christmas in July, these destinations prove that family vacations don’t have to be far to be magical.
Planning a trip soon? Don’t forget to pack:
- Snacks and water bottles
- Extra clothes (because, kids)
- A mix of indoor and outdoor options for unexpected weather
I love learning about new places like these! New England sounds like such a fun and charming area for a family trip. Story Land and the Boston Children’s Museum especially caught my eye — adding them to my travel wish list! Thanks for sharing these great ideas.
The Ben and Jerry’s factory sounds like fun!