Living in New England for over a decade, I’ve had the opportunity to do a good amount of New England traveling. Between the months of October and April (because we take advantage of the fact that my husband’s job is seasonal) we try to explore as much of the New England states as possible. Today, I’m sharing with you a list of ten New England Hotels (and inns and resorts and bed & breakfasts) to explore in 2024. They’re all properties that have impressed us some way or another, with staff teams that make us feel welcomed and special; properties that have given us some of the best sleep of our lives; and properties that overall deliver on quality hospitality.
First up, we’re headed to Mystic, Connecticut to explore two incredible properties that we enjoyed recently. This was our first trip to Mystic and we cannot wait to come back later this winter and spring, to experience it in a variety of seasons!
Explore Mystic, Connecticut
Captain’s Mansion is truly a special place. Located a short walk from gorgeous downtown Mystic, this property offer the most luxurious stays, with a hint of history sprinkled in. You’re experiencing the conveniences of a modern boutique hotel, but within a lovely historic mansion. You’ll learn about Elihu Spicer, born in Noank, CT in 1825, who began his maritime journey at the age of 9 and rose through the ranks to become a shipmaster.
Notably, Spicer played a vital role in the development of the Mystic community, with a significant contribution being The Mystic Noank Library. A close associate of the influential Mallory family, renowned shipbuilders in Mystic, Spicer built the Captain’s Mansion in 1853. The mansion, a testament to his success, boasts lavish features like stained-glass windows, hand-carved wood finishes, and gold-painted murals. Although Captain Spicer passed away in 1891, his legacy lives on, and the stately home eagerly awaits guests to experience its historic grandeur. My husband and I sure did just that, as we strolled through the mansion, taking in all the historic details.
To book a stay at the Captain’s Mansion, click here.
Now, if you’re in Mystic and looking for a more modern boutique inn, here’s the next recommendations: The Whaler’s Inn. The Inn boasts five unique buildings within their fabulous downtown Mystic location with a total of 45 guest rooms. And mind you, note that this is also a property with a ton of history, but the renovations have made it so the modern touches truly meld well with the historical details. You can read more about their place in history here. The Whaler’s Inn is such a pristine destination – the inn itself is thoughtfully curated, and with an in-house restaurant, you’ll want to extend your stay every time you’re there.
The in-house restaurant is called Shipwright’s Daughter, and they embrace sustainability in all shapes and sizes – from their food menu to their wine list, and everything in between, this is the spot you want to dine in while in Mystic.
Above all, it’s the guest interactions and how welcoming the staff is at The Whaler’s Inn that makes us want to come back! The cozy beds, the detailed recommendations, and the delicious restaurant are all just bonuses on an already incredible property.
To book a stay at The Whaler’s Inn, click here.
Discover Newport, Rhode Island
Up next, we’re headed to Rhode Island, where you’ll discover some incredible properties and today I’m sharing two of my favorites. We’ve traveled to Rhode Island quite a few times in the last year, but these two properties stood out as spectacular to us.
Starting with the incredible Hotel Viking, where they say their building is as monumental as their hospitality and they are absolutely correct. Hotel Viking, if you’ve watched The Gilded Age, is like walking on set of the show. Newport grandness is the showstopper of this New Englandhotel and everything from the entrance to the hotel rooms are truly impressive. Their on-site coffee shop make the mornings a lot easier, and it’s not their only food & beverage option either. Their spa is award-winning and if you’re looking for a winter escape, I recommend their Spa & Stay offer – a great way to feel rejuvenated and relaxed in Newport!
To book a stay at Hotel Viking, click here.
Another option in Newport, Rhode Island is the Newport Harbor Island Resort. Nestled in the heart of Newport’s coastal beauty, this resort isn’t just accommodation – it’s an experience. From breathtaking harbor views from our bedroom to unparalleled comfort, every moment here is truly relaxed and just what we needed. On our latest visit to Newport, it was coincidentally Newport Restaurant Week, so we had a chance to enjoy a variety of eateries while there:
🍳 Breakfast: Wake up hungry because Newport has a few delicious breakfast places and our favorite was Cru Cafe. Their apple cider donuts and warm coffees were the perfect way to start the day.
🥗 Lunch: Stoneacre Brasserie has some delightful lunch items, and nothing better than a warm French Onion soup on a cold November day, plus a beet salad and Croque Monsieur sandwich – a slice of France in Newport!
☕️ Coffee & Sweet Treat: We all need a sweet treat and a jolt of caffeine after lunch, so Springline Coffee in Bowen’s Wharf, where the bustling harbor & square are lined with quaint boutiques, cafes, galleries & is truly a fun area to explore.
🍴 Dinner: @giustonewport is an experience that tantalizes taste buds, offering a culinary moment that perfectly complements the ambiance of this New England season.
To book a stay at the Newport Harbor Island Resort, click here.
Travel to Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Now, we’re leaving Rhode Island and headed to New Hampshire. A state we definitely need to explore more of, but recently enjoyed a stay at Hotel Thaxter and we definitely recommend you check it out!
Hotel Thaxter a full-service upscale hotel (complete with on-site restaurant Nichinan), located in the heart of Downtown Portsmouth, and full of history. Built in 1860, it was originally home to The First Congregational Church of Portsmouth before becoming The Salvation Army. The recent restoration in 2021 converted this historic building into 15 guest rooms, featuring luxurious accommodations and cozy digs. It is centrally located, so we were able to easily walk to some of the city’s most appealing venues and dining establishments. Here are our top picks on how to spend your time in Downtown Portsmouth:
🥐 @elephantinebakery – savor the enchantment of this old-world cafe and scratch bakery known for its fine breads and pastries.
🧀 @eatcheeselouise – how can you pass up a restaurant that specializes in serving grilled cheese? Plus we loved learning about this company that was started by a group of friends from nearby North Conway, NH.
🌱 @earthcommunity – Hearth Market is a vibrant community emporium offering a diverse selection of food, drinks, goods around a plant-filled indoor courtyard!
🥣 @curerestaurant – indulge in elevated American comfort food, including French onion soup that makes for the perfect winter treat.
🎶 @jimmysjazzblues catch world-class musicians on the stage of this impressive jazz and blues club.
🐐 @goatbarnnh – this spot offers life music nightly and pulls out all the stops for the holidays with their @miracleatthegoatChristmas Pop-Up Bar
📚 @portsmouthbookandbar is a full-service restaurant, bar & live entertainment venue tucked inside a bookstore!
To book a stay at the Hotel Thaxter, click here.
Enjoy Massachusetts
And now, we head to my home state of Massachusetts, where I have five properties you need to visit in 2024, including my favorite newest hotel on Martha’s Vineyard, which I will leave for last! First, head to Rockport and book a stay at the Addison Choate.
The Addison Choate is perched in the heart of Rockport, where your steps away from scenic vistas, quaint shops, and renowned art galleries. Explore picturesque Bearskin Neck or wander along the tranquil coastline—all within easy reach. We discovered some incredible shopping along the way. At the inn, sink into cozy, well-appointed rooms adorned with classic décor and plush amenities, like essential oils and diffusers – just like home. Nothing better than being able to diffuse Thieves oil after a long day of travel!
To book a stay at the Addison Choate, click here.
But next, you’ll head to Marblehead and book a stay at the Harbor Light Inn. Booking a stay at the Harbor Light Inn in Marblehead, MA, is an immersive journey through history and hospitality. Tucked in the heart of Marblehead, this inn offers well-preserved Federal-style architecture, cozy rooms, and modern amenities – their breakfast is truly an outstanding meal and the best way to start your day before heading out to explore. With a central location, you’ll be steps away from Marblehead’s historic district, shops, and waterfront. Whether you love history, culinary adventures, or seek a tranquil escape, the Harbor Light Inn provides a memorable retreat in the heart of New England’s coastal charm.
To book a stay at the Harbor Light Inn, click here.
Now, we’re headed to another town that’s North of Boston – Rowley. Here, you’ll find the Briar Barn Inn and Grove Rowley (their on-site restaurant), a destination unlike any other. We’ve been to this property about three times in just the last year, and every time it overdelivers on hospitality! With 30 guest rooms and a gorgeous property in any season, this is my go-to recommendation for anyone wanting either a solo retreat or a romantic getaway. The hotel grounds are just spectacular, the thoughtful details in the rooms are truly comforting, and with a full spa as well as a restaurant, you can spend the week relaxing without having to leave the property!
To book a stay at the Briar Barn Inn, click here.
Now, head to Boston and stay overnight at the Omni Parker House. The birthplace of the Boston Cream Pie & Parker House Rolls, this is the perfect hotel for the foodie in your life. Culinary legends such as Emeril Lagasse, Lydia Shire, and Jasper White launched their careers at this hotel. Plus, it’s centrally located on the Freedom Trail, very close to Beacon Hill, the Boston Common, and Public Garden, as well as just minutes away from the theater district and the Museum of Fine Art. Read my full review of this hotel here.
To book a stay at the Omni Parker House, click here.
And last, but certainly not least, ferry or fly over to Martha’s Vineyard and book a spring or summer getaway to the Faraway Martha’s Vineyard. They said it perfectly:
“Reimaged and relaunched as Faraway Martha’s Vineyard, the historic Kelley House returns including The Newes From America and Pelican Club restaurants. This revitalized Edgartown landmark hotel now features a new guest-only pool, fitness center, jacuzzi tub, Snack Shack and a new luxury retail partner WHEAT.”
This is the newest hotel on island and the moment you step inside the lobby, you’ll be taken away to a utopia right in Edgartown. A must if you want to experience ultimate luxury with a hint of floral tropics right here in New England.
To book a stay at the Faraway Martha’s Vineyard, click here.
Wherever you choose to travel in New England this year, I hope it’s a fun experience and you make wonder memories with yourself, your friends, or your family! Make sure to check out New England Inns & Resorts Association and Visit North of Boston, who made some of these visits possible!