last edited Aug 14, 2020
New England States
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Location Map of New England
New England
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Connecticut
Bordering New York State, Connecticut—or at least its western part—is essentially one of the outer residential suburbs of New York City, with one of the highest population densities of any U.S. state (nearly 300 inhabitants per km²). Besides being among the wealthiest, it is also one of the least touristy states, despite a few points of interest, including the Berkshire Hills well-known to hikers.
Maine
This northeasternmost U.S. state, where 25% of the population is of French or Acadian descent, is known for its stunning landscapes: rugged, jagged coastlines, low, rolling mountains, and vast forests interspersed with marshes. Naturally, this "wild" land is especially beloved by nature and adventure enthusiasts, particularly in places like the Acadia National Park or the White Mountain National Forest.
Massachusetts
With the city of Boston and its famous universities, prestigious seaside destinations like Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard, and a hinterland (notably the Berkshire Hills) offering beautiful landscapes for hiking, fishing, rafting, or canoeing, Massachusetts is the best-known and most visited state in all of New England. More broadly, the "Bay State" (its nickname) has long been a commercial crossroads as well as a hub of knowledge and socio-political activism.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of New England’s "nature states." While traces of the past occasionally resurface, such as in Portsmouth, the third-oldest city in the U.S., visitors come here primarily for the natural diversity and outdoor activities. Forests, mountains (including the famous White Mountains), lakes, and a tiny stretch of coastline are all part of the experience in this state, where nearly a quarter of the population is of French or Acadian descent.
Rhode Island
The smallest U.S. state, at just 4,000 km², Rhode Island is also one of the most densely populated. Over 90% urbanized, it is part of the "outer suburbs" of Boston. Touristically, the state offers glimpses of early America, particularly in its capital, Providence, as well as pleasant coastal areas, foremost among them the resort of Narragansett. Rhode Island is also home to the famous Newport jazz festival, held annually.
Vermont
This small, rural state, 75% forested and very sparsely populated (only one city exceeds 20,000 inhabitants), is perhaps one of the least known U.S. states abroad. Yet it has everything to delight nature lovers, ecotourists, and outdoor enthusiasts, both in summer and winter, centered around two main sites: the Lake Champlain and, above all, the Green Mountains, which also gave the state its nickname. Vermont remains a premier nature-tourism destination for East Coast Americans.