17 Top Historic Towns in New England 

If there’s one thing New England is full of, it’s history. Much of this history comes from New England’s towns, which have helped to shape its culture into what it is today. Here are the top 17 historic towns in New England.

York, Maine

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Mommy Travels writes, “In York, Maine, you can explore the museums of Old York. A collection of nine different historic buildings, these museums take you through over 300 years of New England history.” You can also visit Nubble Lighthouse for beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Manchester, Vermont

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Manchester is known for its cosmopolitan flair, even if it has small-town vibes. There’s plenty to do and see in Manchester, such as its picturesque scenery or year-round activities like skiing and snowboarding. The town also has a great selection of restaurants and breakfast spots to ensure you don’t go hungry.

North Conway, New Hampshire

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Visiting North Conway will give you beautiful views of Mount Washington. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained, such as hiking, skiing, or heading to theme parks like Story Land. For the best views, you can take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, going all the way through the Mount Washington Valley.

Woodstock, Vermont

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You won’t be at a loss for things to do in Vermont. For example, Woodstock VT writes, “The Village of Woodstock is bustling with all of our unique retail shops, delectable restaurants and charming lodging properties ready to make your stay unforgettable.” You can also discover covered bridges, working orchards, farms, and cider mills.

Mystic, Connecticut

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Mystic has plenty of history to keep you interested. There’s colonial architecture and rich seaport history to really dive into and explore when you arrive. You can explore the historical merchant vessels and experience the commerce of the past. Enjoy a blend of a tourist-friendly atmosphere and historic charm.

Siasconset, Massachusetts

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Expect panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean in Siasconset, along with classic New England houses that are sure to take your breath away. This tiny Nantucket town has a unique charm and beautiful landscapes. Make sure to visit the beaches of Siasconset for some fresh walks right by the Atlantic Ocean.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

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Visit The USA writes, “Located at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, this thriving, historical port town affords ample opportunities for both water-oriented and land-based activities.” The town was established in 1623, making it one of the oldest towns in the U.S. It’s rich in both history and culture, and it has a historic downtown area.

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

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Bretton Woods is home to the largest skiing area in the state, as well as the Omni Mount Washington. It has many outdoor areas to keep you entertained, such as golf, skiing, and horseback riding. If you’re heading to Bretton Woods in the summer, then you might want to try tennis or fishing.

Stonington Borough, Connecticut

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Stonington Borough is a small seaside village with colonial-period houses and churches that will leave you feeling like you’re in another world. There are plenty of things to keep you occupied in Stonington Borough, such as antique shops, a famous seafood restaurant, and the last remaining commercial fleet in Connecticut.

Shelburne, Vermont

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Home to two red barns, these represent the history of Vermont, with Fodor’s writing, “Nothing says ‘Vermont’ like a big red barn, and the Champlain Valley’s Shelburne Museum just south of Burlington has two really big, really red barns—one round, the other horse-shoe shaped.” The Shelburne Museum is home to horse-drawn vehicles and other various collections.

Salem, Massachusetts

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Salem isn’t just famous for Halloween; it’s also known for its friendly locals and offers a rich social scene. The town is well known for the witch trials, which took place in 1692, and this makes it a great spot to explore the history behind the witch era.

Newport, Rhode Island

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Newport is a classic New England harbor town with Gilded Age mansions and the romantic Cliff Walk. The town is home to historic taverns, brick roads, and seaside charm that really showcases all that New England has to offer. There’s plenty for you to do in Newport, such as visiting mansions, museums, and orchards.

Chester, Connecticut

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World Atlas writes, “It’s a unique destination that has a historic downtown area lined with 19th-century locally owned shops and charming houses.” Chester is a great place to visit if you have an interest in art, theater, and cultural cuisine. The town is well-known for its community spirit and 19th-century charm.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

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Provincetown has a welcoming community and is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It’s a cultural hotspot where many people go for opportunities to engage in local history and the arts. The town’s Commercial Street has a broad range of shops, boutiques, galleries, inns, and restaurants.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

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This island is just seven miles off the coast of Massachusetts. Attractions to visit at Martha’s Vineyard include the Flying Horse Carousel and Joseph Sylvia State Beach. There are many historical landmarks and cultural experiences to take part in, making it a must to visit if you have an interest in history.

Bar Harbor, Maine

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Acadia Magic writes, “Bar Harbor, Maine, originally incorporated as Eden on February 23, 1796, has a world renowned ambiance that blends seashore community, Down East character, and the famous Maine Lobster.” If you visit Bar Harbor for its history, then make sure to head to the Abbe Museum.

Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Cambridge, Massachusetts, is known for its historical universities, cultural offerings, and historical sites. It’s a hub for both educational and historical visits. It became an organized town in 1636 and also became the home of Harvard College (which is now a university). The older part of Cambridge is known for its historical culture.

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