Since the early days of the republic, well-heeled Americans have decamped to the shores and mountains of New England to escape the summer heat, revel in the colorful Fall foliage, and partake in winter sports. Places like Newport, Rhode Island feature Gilded Age mansions that were once the summer “cottages” of families such as the Vanderbilts and Astors. These days, New England getaways are much more accessible to those looking visit over a long weekend.
The good news for sober travelers is that these destinations offer a variety of activities that make alcohol an afterthought. Head outdoors for hiking, mountain biking and skiing, or catch a show or festival. Many of these places also boast an amazing gastronomic scene. Read on to find the best New England vacation spots for a sober weekend getaway.
Boston, MA
Boston is rich in colonial and revolutionary history but has a youthful population, with more than 60 institutions of higher learning within its metro area, including the prestigious Harvard University and MIT. The city proper is compact and walk-able, with interesting architecture and historical landmarks. It also contains a vast amount of green space, including the miles-long trail along the Charles River as well as Boston Common, a lush city park that often hosts festivals and concerts.
One of the most fun things you can do in Boston is take a boat tour down the Charles. Accompanied by a cool breeze coming off the river, this narrated cruise runs about an hour and provides you with interesting insight into the city. Catch a Red Sox game at the hallowed Fenway ballpark or grab a bite at one of the vendors in Fanueil Hall, and enjoy Boston at its best time of year.
Where to Stay: Revere Hotel Boston Common
This hotel has a luxury feel and stunning city views from most of its rooms. Ideal location for anyone looking to explore Boston on foot or use the city’s public transportation system (the “T”) for the duration of their stay.
What to Eat: The Friendly Toast
A hip breakfast and brunch chain based in Massachusetts, The Friendly Toast almost always has a line for dining in. They offer delicious options both sweet and savory, indulgent and health-conscious.
Don’t Miss: Improv Asylum
Any time I make a trip to Boston, I book tickets to Improv Asylum, a comedy club in the North End with a consistently talented cast and fun, hilarious shows.
Portland, ME
The largest city in Maine with half a million residents, seaside Portland has a decidedly maritime feel, with yachts, boats and ferries flitting around Casco Bay and lighthouses dotting the coast. And like most destinations in Maine, you are granted a little more elbow room than in the rest of the densely populated Northeast. Even in districts like the touristy Commercial Street, the city still emanates a laid-back vibe.
Renting bikes is a fun way to see what Portland has to offer (we used Gorham Bike & Ski on Congress Street). While there are several well-traveled routes of 40 and 60 miles for more ambitious bikers, there is also a scenic, pleasant loop that meanders past several light houses and forts along Portland’s southern coast, which will take you an afternoon.
Where to Stay: Hampton Inn Portland Downtown-Waterfront
Great location close to the harbor, shopping and restaurants, nice accommodations and a decent price.
What to Eat: Tandem Coffee
Delicious coffee and an egg and cheese breakfast sandwich that is a revelation.
Don’t Miss: Peaks Island
Take the 20-minute ferry ride to a community that feels a world away from the city. There are approximately 3 cars on the island and a general store. Enjoy the adorable colonial and Cape Cod-style houses and quiet, rocky beaches. Rent a golf cart to ride around the 740-acre island and drink in the views.
Lake Placid, NY
Nestled in upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountains, the sleepy hamlet of Lake Placid is a destination for travelers seeking fresh, mountain air. It’s claim to fame is that it has hosted not one, but two Olympics over the past century, and more recently was featured in an episode of Succession (Season One, when the Roy family attended a conference modeled after the Aspen Ideas Festival).
In addition to water sports like kayaking, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding on Mirror Lake, there are nearby hiking spots for various levels of conditioning and experience, such as Balanced Rocks and Whiteface Landing.
Where to Stay: Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
The most quintessentially Lake Placid hotel, with a large stone hearth and vaulted wood-paneled ceilings in its lobby, Crowne Plaza Lake Placid is perched above Main Street, its soaring A-frame windows providing guests a stunning panorama of Mirror Lake.
What to Eat: Generations
This restaurant is attached to Golden Arrow Resort off Main Street and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It also features nice views of the lake. If you are in the mood for upscale bar food, Generations is the place to go!
Don’t Miss: High Falls Gorge
A 10-minute drive from downtown Lake Placid, this nature park features several miles of trails, including boardwalks and bridges over impressive waterfalls.
Cape Cod, MA
Jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean from mainland Massachusetts, Cape Cod is the embodiment of everything New England: cedar shake houses, quaint villages, seafood shacks and an abundance of light houses. The peninsula includes miles of sandy beaches as well as ample opportunity for boating and fishing.
Towns such as Hyannis and Provincetown offer shopping, art galleries and high-end dining, while places like Eastham and Wellfleet on the Outer Cape offer more relaxed vibes. If you have extra time (and lots of extra money), consider taking a ferry and staying in Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard, the two islands off the coast of Cape Cod known to be the playground of the wealthy. Both boast stunning coastal scenery, beautiful homes and delicious food.
Where to Stay: Green Harbor Resort
On the shores of Lewis Bay in Yarmouth, Green Harbor Resort offers spacious suites steps away from a private beach. Other amenities include a pool, mini-golf course and bike rentals.
What to Eat: Jimmy’s Hideaway
American restaurant with a plethora of seafood dishes like surf and turf, fish and chips, and lobster carbonara (make sure you bring a defibrillator). Located in the heart of Provincetown.
Don’t Miss: Provincetown
Known as a gay mecca and artist haven, bustling Provincetown offers art galleries, specialty shops, restaurants and nightlife. Pilgrim Monument & Museum, commemorating the Mayflower landing, is within walking distance of Commercial Street.
Newport, RI
Newport’s charming, winding streets, historical landmarks and well-preserved colonial housing stock reflect its storied past. Founded as one of the earliest US settlements in 1639, the Rhode Island town has deep significance as a key trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries, and then as the summer home of some of the most prominent and influential Americans of the 19th and 20th centuries, including the Kennedys, Dukes and Astors. Today, Newport still attracts affluent vacationers, as evidenced by the astronomical hotel and resort prices from May to October and the inordinate number of yachts in the harbor.
Even if you aren’t from an old-money New York family, you can still enjoy Newport’s natural and architectural beauty, take a tour of the Newport mansions and avail yourself of the town’s phenomenal dining options. Also check out seasonal events such as the Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival, and attractions such as the Save the Bay Exploration Center and Aquarium.
Where to Stay: Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa
I never regret staying at a Marriott. While pricey, it’s location in Newport is ideal and it includes amenities such as a killer gym.
What to Eat: The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
You obviously must eat seafood when you are in Newport. The Mooring is a lively Newport establishment with outdoor seating and enticing dishes including lobster-shrimp fritters, whole-roasted fish and seared scallops.
Don’t Miss: The Cliff Walk
On the outskirts of Newport’s downtown is the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that winds past wildlife, beaches, and the famous mansions, all the while providing impressive water views.
Looking for more last-minute summer getaway ideas? Check out our sober travel destinations page!
The Temperate Traveler 
Great work!
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