12 Best Romantic Winter Getaways in New England

Posted on November 12, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on August 14, 2023

When the weather starts to cool down and snow starts to fall, romance heats up in New England’s hotels, inns, and B&Bs. Whether you want to cozy it up by the fire or enjoy a winter hike in the woods, there are plenty of great destinations to make the most of the season together.

If you are planning a romantic escape to New England, we have listed some of the best destinations for two featuring romantic inns, cozy indoor things to do, and fun winter activities. Explore the region’s mountains, beaches, or quaint towns during your winter trip and spend some quality time with your better half.

Keep on reading to discover the best romantic winter getaways in New England!

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Salem, Massachusetts

By Cami from Travel Cami

Salem, Massachusetts is a romantic destination for winter. It has long, snowy winters and beautiful old architecture including historic homes like the House of Seven Gables, which inspired a famous piece of American literature with the same name.

Salem has great restaurants and cafes, especially coffee shops with cocoa and warm drinks, perfect for cuddling up next to someone special. There are also lots of cute shops and boutiques selling finely crafted artisan goods that make great gifts, and you’ll find lots of great holiday decorations in the shops.

But what really makes Salem such a great destination is its uniqueness. Being where the Salem witch trials took place, the town has a strong connection to history and witchcraft. There are great ghost tours for those who like spooky events, and there are also lots of other kinds of tours with themes such as ghosts, art, food, and architecture.

Some of the best things to do in town in the winter include visiting historic sites like the Witch House and Hawthorne’s Birthplace, museums like the Peabody Essex Museum and the Salem Historical Society, and taking a stroll along Salem’s historic waterfront.

Regarding places to stay, the Salem Inn or the Hawthorne Hotel would be great options for couples with romantic rooms and cozy vibes. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals right in the historic district.

So if you’re looking for something special to do this winter that’s romantic but also unusual, visiting Salem might just do the trick.

Portland, Maine

By Kelsea from Out of Office Mindset

Portland, Maine is a beautiful coastal city that sparks with light and life in the wintertime. The city is home to quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and interesting historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for a winter getaway.

Winter in Portland, Maine kicks up in December and lasts through March. The average high temperature is 41 degrees (F) and the average low temperature is 17 degrees (F). In the wintertime, you are likely to be greeted by snow so be sure to pack a good winter jacket and warm, waterproof boots!

To start your wonderful winter weekend getaway in Portland, Maine, grab a cup of coffee or tea and drive over to the Portland Head Light. The Portland Head Light is the iconic Maine lighthouse – the grounds around it are beautiful and the snow elevates its charm!

After visiting the lighthouse, head to Portland’s Old Port. In Old Port, you will see the most charming cobblestone streets lined with unique boutiques and delicious restaurants. Treat yourself to an afternoon popping in and out of these cute shops.

When shopping summons an appetite, you will be in the right place! Portland, Maine was named Restaurant City of the Year in 2018 by Bon Appetit. A few local favorites include The Holy Donut, Eventide Oyster Co., Empire Chinese Kitchen, and Front Room.

Portland, Maine has no shortage of great accommodations either. There are fantastic hotels right in Old Port but a favorite place are the Bed and Breakfasts in the West End. The Chadwick Bed and Breakfast is sure to enhance your entire Portland experience. From the scrumptious breakfast to the beautiful, romantic rooms, you won’t want to leave!

Bar Harbor, Maine

The getaway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is an ideal winter getaway destination in New England for couples looking to enjoy the outdoors and winter activities. Many trails are still accessible for hiking, sections of the Park Loop Road stay open, while 45 miles of carriage road await for some of the best cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the East Coast.

For a scenic road trip, you can drive Ocean Drive and Jordan Pond Road stopping along the way to scenic spots and overlooks. You’ll pass by Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and the Beehive.

The most challenging trails are closed during winter, but you’ll still find plenty of places you can reach on foot. Eagle Lake features stunning views, a 3.7-mile groomed path on its west side, and access to several carriage roads.

You can also hike the Cadillac North Ridge Trail which is ideal if you want to watch the sunrise or sunset from a high point.

If you want to explore the park further grab your skis or snowshoes to be able to hike to more remote places. Snowmobiling is also an option and is allowed on the Park Loop Road. Adventurous couples can also try their hand at ice climbing.

In town, many places will be closed but it means homier vibes and lower prices. For a romantic place to stay, check out The Inn on Mount Desert featuring comfy rooms, free breakfast, and a perfect location. You’ll also find plenty of cabins available for rent.

Museums usually stay open during winter and can be a good way to escape the cold.

For a fun date, you can head to Reel Pizza for a movie and some pizza. For something more romantic, head to Havana, serving high-end Latin and American cuisine in an intimate setting. Featuring stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Mountains, The Veranda Bar at Balance Rock Inn is known for its cocktails and small plates.

Things you should pack for a winter trip to Acadia: crampons/ice grippers/cleats, trekking poles, thermal underwear, snowboots + usual winter clothing.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington will make the perfect city break winter getaway, especially for those who are not into winter sports. Couples will find tons of romantic things to do and activities to enjoy together, especially indoors to avoid the chilly winter temperatures.

Stroll around Church St. and maybe do some holiday shopping at one of the many independent shops and cute stores. There, you’ll also find plenty of nice restaurants lining this pedestrian avenue and many cozy coffee shops, bars, and pubs to warm up.

The Whiskey Room is a locals’ favorite and is the perfect place to sample whiskeys, craft beers, or cocktails while eating some tapas. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Vivid Coffee while cozying it up by their roaring fireplace. If you like beers, you can plan on dropping by a few of the local craft breweries.

For a romantic date, have dinner at the upscale yet casual Hen of the Wood. Cooking with local and fresh produce, they change their menu daily – if you sit at the bar you can watch the cooks at work.

For some pampering, head to the spa at The Essex where you can get massages or spa treatments, and enjoy their pool and hot tub (you can even stay there and get free access to the spa’s facilities).

And if you want to spend some time outdoors after all, you’ll only be an hour away from Sugarbush, Smuggler’s Notch, Mad River Glen, and Stowe where you can ski or snowboard.

In town, you’ll find plenty of chain hotels. For something more intimate. check out the charming and family-run Willard Street Inn with free breakfast, on-sight parking, and cozy rooms. You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals with great amenities and stunning views.

North Conway, New Hampshire

Cathedral Ledge Road in winter, North Conway, NH, USA

Snow-covered Kancamagus Highway, Conway, United States

Nestled between the White Mountain National Forest and the Kancamagus Highway, the small town of North Conway is a quintessential New England winter getaway. From there, New Hampshire’s best ski resorts, winter activities, and romantic settings await for a memorable weekend with your partner.

For outdoor winter activities, head to Attitash and Cranmore Mountain resorts for skiing or snowboarding. If cross-country skiing is more your thing, go for a winter hike at nearby Jackson. You’ll also find many snowmobile trails not far from town.

North Conway is also an ideal place to go ice climbing, you’ll find a couple of schools around town offering ice climbing tours and courses in the White Mountains. If you are in town at the beginning of February, don’t miss the Mt. Washington Valley Ice Fest – check out the town’s event calendar, as there are always a lot of fun things going on during winter in and around town.

For something more relaxed, stroll around town, checking out a few shops and cozy coffee shops. The Front Side Coffee Roaster is a popular spot among locals and is also a good place to grab a bite to eat. For a romantic dinner date, the Stonehurst Manor offers fine dining in elegant and intimate settings.

Another great thing to do in winter is to ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, enjoying a peaceful train ride to Attitash through a snowy landscape and stunning scenery.

For a cozy place to stay in North Conway, check out Buttonwood Inn on Mount Surprise offering spacious rooms with great views, and daily homemade breakfast. For something more intimate, consider booking a vacation rental, you’ll find plenty of cabins with a fireplace and hot tub for the perfect romantic getaway.

Norwich, Connecticut

Indian Leap Falls in winter — Picture by Linda Orlomoski via Flickr

Located about halfway between Boston and New York, Norwich is the perfect blend of fun outdoor activities and ways to keep warm. Stroll around the historic downtown, grab a bite to eat, and sip on a glass of wine by the fireplace – or grab your gear and head outside for a fun day in the snow.

Norwich is an ideal romantic winter getaway in New England for couples looking for a small town full of charm with plenty of entertainment options.

Book a stay at the luxurious and historic The Spa at Norwich Inn and treat yourself to a couple’s massage or a spa treatment – or simply enjoy the indoor pool and sauna room. If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider booking a vacation rental.

Right in town, make sure to stop by the Yantic Falls, often frozen over this time of year, and then go ice skating at the RoseGarden Ice Arena. You can also visit a historic house or two – the Slater Memorial Museum and Leffingwell House Museum are popular options.

If you’re up for hiking, head to Mooween State Park open from 8 AM to sunset.

For a fun night out, have dinner at the cozy yet sophisticated Ascot’s, then head to the casino at Mohegan Sun.

Newport, Rhode Island

The Breakers Mansion interior, Newport, RI

More of a summer destination, Newport, Rhode Island, is still an awesome place to visit during winter, especially for couples who like to avoid the crowds. Enjoy the fresh air of the sea, stroll through this quintessential New England town, and cuddle up by the fireplace after a day out. It will make the perfect coastal romantic getaway in New England.

You’ll find great deals on oceanfront houses this time of the year, or you can book a stay at the luxurious Castle Hill Inn, a historic Victorian Mansion. The Serenity Inn Newport is also a nice option for couples on a budget. In addition, most things stay open year-round, so you can enjoy the town’s top attractions and best restaurants.

In town, don’t miss touring a couple of Newport’s Victorian mansions, checking out the igloos at Gurney’s Resorts, taking a Holiday Lantern Walking Tour, and hiking the Newport Cliff Walk. If you like boating and spotting wildlife, take a tour with Save the Bay, offering nature tours and seal watching in Newport, from October to April.

When you need to warm up, head to the Chanler Hotel and their hot chocolate bar, where you can sample some of the best cocoa in town. You can also visit a couple of museums, most stay open throughout winter.

For a romantic date, start with a couple’s massage at The Bodhi Spa then have a glass of wine at the Vino Wine Bar followed by dinner at the classy and tasty Lucias Italian Restaurant.

Make sure to check out the town’s event calendar as well, especially if you are visiting around the Holidays or during the Newport Winter Festival.

Stowe, Vermont

A list of the most romantic winter getaways in New England wouldn’t be complete without including Stowe in Vermont. The cozy mountain town is ideal for couples wanting to enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, as well as for people just wanting to relax and find plenty of entertainment options.

Enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, winter hiking, or tubing among many others, go for some shopping, get a couple’s massage or spa treatment, and enjoy the plethora of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops available. You’ll also find many breweries in town and the famous Ben & Jerry’s factory which you can tour.

A romantic thing to do in Stowe is to ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield and grab lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant and then dessert at The Waffle Cabin. For a romantic dinner date, book a table at the gourmet Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar.

When looking for a place to stay, you can check out the many vacation rentals in town, from cozy chalets to luxurious condos, all great options for a romantic winter getaway (pick one with a fireplace!). If you’d rather book a hotel room, the iconic Trapp Family Lodge is ideal for couples looking for some romance.

Williamstown, Massachussetts

Located in the heart of the Berkshires, Williamstown is a quaint New England town and will make one of the best romantic winter weekend getaways in Massachusetts. It’s an ideal destination for couples looking to spend a weekend strolling through art galleries and museums, sampling some tasty food, and maybe enjoying an easy winter hike or two.

Start by booking a room at the upscale Williams Inn close to everything and an ideal romantic getaway destination. Don’t miss their restaurant, The Barn Kitchen & Bar, using local, sustainable ingredients to craft New American cuisine including New England classics and updated favorites.

For something more affordable, you can book a room at the well-rated Maple Terrace Motel or a vacation rental.

In town, don’t miss the 16th-19th century paintings at the Clark Art Institute and the eclectic art collection of its neighbor, the Williams College Museum of Art. Stroll through the downtown area, stopping by art galleries, independent shops, and cozy coffee shops.

For a fun night out, catch an independent, foreign, or classic film at the historic Images Cinema before grabbing a bite to eat and a cocktail at the popular Mezze Bistro + Bar.

If you want to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, plan a hike to the summit of Mt. Greylock or through picturesque vistas at the Mountain Meadow Preserve. Outdoor lovers might also want to check out Taconic State Park and its many miles of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails.

Franconia, New Hampshire

Cannon Mountain, Franconia, United States

Nestled in the White Mountains, Franconia is the perfect New England winter getaway for couples who want to enjoy the outdoors, with access to beautiful hikes and plenty of entertainment options.

Within Franconia Notch, you’ll find the small towns of Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, and Littleton. All are worth checking out if you have the time.

If you want to ski, from Franconia, you have easy access to Cannon Mountain, and Bretton Woods and Loon Mountain are less than a 30-minute drive away.

Some of the best winter hikes in New England are found around Franconia Notch, from the easy Flume Gorge trail to more challenging full-day hikes. Be sure to have the proper gear for winter hiking (crampons/ice grippers/cleats, trekking poles, thermal underwear, snowboots), many hikes require snowshoes.

For something a bit more relaxed, go ice skating at Franconia Inn, visit Ice Castles in North Woodstock, or stroll through the downtown area in Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, and Littleton.

If you’re craving something sweet, head to Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill! If you like beer, check out a couple of breweries like Rek-Lis Brewing in Bethlehem, Schilling Beer Co in Littleton, and Iron Furnace Brewing in Franconia.

When it comes to places to stay, you’ll find several romantic cozy inns and plenty of comfy vacation rentals. The Sugar Hill Inn is a great place for couples to stay at. They feature comfy rooms with views over the mountains, a tasty complimentary breakfast and a beautiful garden. If you want to treat yourself, book the Dream Cottage with a spa bath, private sauna, and a fireplace.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Treat yourself to one of the most romantic New England inns, the White Barn Inn, ideal for a couple’s winter weekend getaway. Book a suite with a fireplace and a spa bath for romance, enjoy their top-notch spa, stroll through the gardens, and have a romantic dinner at their AAA Five Diamond, Forbes Five Star restaurant.

There are also plenty of things to do during winter outside the inn. Head to the Waterhouse Center Ice Rink on Main Street for some ice skating, and if you’re up for some cross-country skiing, check out nearby Harris Farm and Smiling Hill Farm. In town, stroll through the downtown area, window shopping, and then check out the waterfront.

You’ll find plenty of cute shops and coffee shops to warm up. If you like wine, you can go sample some at Old Vines Wine Bar (they’re also known for their craft cocktails) accompanied by some tapas. Or, head to Kennebunk Brewpub if beer is more your thing, you might even happen to stop by during a Trivia night.

Westerly, Rhode Island

Watch Hill Cove from Napatree Point, Rhode Island

Escape to the beach this winter with a coastal getaway with your partner. Take long walks on the beach, peruse through small shops in downtown Westerly, and cozy up by a fireplace with a hot cocoa or glass of wine. Westerly is one of the best New England winter getaways if you’re looking for a weekend of relaxation.

Start by booking a room at the comfy Shelter Harbor Inn (make sure to pick one with a fireplace!). The inn has its own private beach, a big terrace, and serves a hearty breakfast every morning. In addition, you can have a meal at their onsite Farm to Fork restaurant, get a massage at the spa, and enjoy the various seasonal activities that might be happening during your stay.

In town, many places stay open throughout winter. Check out Savoy Bookshop & Cafe where you can enjoy reading while sipping on a coffee or eating a pastry. You’ll also find several breweries, some organize events or themed nights during the weekends, Malted Barley Brewery is one of the most popular. If wine is more your thing, check out the Langworthy Farm Winery.

From October through April, Save The Bay organizes seal-watching tours from Westerly as well if you want to go on a boat tour.

For a romantic dinner date, book a table at Ella’s Food & Drink, a European/Asian fusion fine dining restaurant in an elegant setting.

Washington, Connecticut

Known for its picturesque countryside, historic buildings, and rich cultural life, Washington, CT, offers plenty of things to do during the wintertime for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The town is a true winter wonderland, especially around the Holidays thanks to its many independent shops where you can do some Christmas shopping, and its Holiday in the Depot festival, among other many holiday festivities organized around town. You can also stop by The Frederick Gunn School, open for public skating on Sundays throughout the winter.

For some outdoor winter activities, you can hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe trek along one of Steep Rock Association’s preserves and trails and experience the beauty of nature and bucolic views this time of year. In nearby Cornwall, Mohawk Mountain offers downhill skiing and snowboarding.

When you need to warm up, head to one of the town’s taverns like the historic G.W. Tavern or the White Horse Country Pub for a warm drink or hearty meal.

In Washington, you’ll also find one of the most romantic inns on the East Coast, the Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resorts Collection. The luxurious inn offers top-notch services and amenities. Book a room with a fireplace, indulge in a spa treatment, enjoy the indoor pool, take a stroll through their beautiful garden, and try a meal of regionally-sourced ingredients at The Mayflower Dining Room.