New England Day Trips for Couples

When it comes to choosing the ideal outing for a day of fun with your partner, it can be tricky to narrow down the possibilities.

Are you an adventurous couple in looking for an energetic kayak trip? Or would you prefer a day of luxurious pampering at a spa? From snow-covered cabins to dining on farm-to-table delicacies, the New England states offer many tempting ways for couples to spend time together.

Maine

Acadia National Park, and the entirety of Mount Desert Island in Northern Maine, offers countless opportunities for hiking, kayaking and picnicking. Why not even take tea by a picturesque lakeside?

The extreme northern location of the narrow isthmus that connects the ‘island’ to the mainland makes this quite a challenging day trip. However, if you live in or are visiting Maine, the peaceful location is ideal.

Mid-coast Maine, just two hours by car from Boston, is home to a string of small communities that are famous for two things: lobster and art. Whether you're a foodie, culture hound, or a mix of both, visit Rockland, Camden, and Rockport to spend the day gallery-hopping and restaurant-stopping on this trio's main streets. In the evening, enjoy fresh Maine seafood by candlelight, especially during Rockland's early August Maine Lobster Festival.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known for its White Mountains. Drive through these impressive ranges on a fine summer's day and enjoy the splendor of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The state's extensive lake system includes the massive Lake Winnipesaukee, which has more than enough beaches and inlets for every traveler to find a favorite.

For a nostalgic experience, visit Squam Lake. Also known as Golden Pond, this lake's quiet elegance was immortalized by the award-winning 1980s movie "On Golden Pond." Finish the day at the Manor on Golden Pond for a room and dining with a lakeside view.

Massachusetts

Along the border of New York in western Massachusetts, the historic farming towns of the Berkshires have remained relatively untouched by urbanization and the weekend flocks from the big cities. Whether you prefer snowshoeing and hiking or lounging in a steaming hot tub in an 18th-century manor house, the Berkshires have everything to satisfy your needs.

Visit larger Great Barrington for shopping, Lenox for intimate dining experiences and exquisite service, and Stockbridge, steeped in history. In the summer, head to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony, to explore the gardens and enjoy a picnic concert.

Connecticut

Make your way inland to Litchfield County. It has made a name for itself in recent years with a lively weekend group of restaurants that don’t take reservations or credit cards – or even advertise the menu. You eat on paper tablecloths, but the cuisine rivals the finest Parisian dining.

On the coast, historic Mystic has been settled longer than recorded history. Despite the paparazzi that descended after its famous turn in the film "Mystic Pizza", the town still looks like the seaside fishing village it has been for centuries. It's just quainter, cleaner, and more accessible to the casual visitor.

Rhode Island

Located on Aquidneck Island, Newport is a more accessible version of the Hamptons of the ‘Great Gatsby’ era. Its castle-like, Gilded Age mansions bring to mind opulent Italian and British architecture. Many of the lavish homes, such as the former Vanderbilt summer ‘cottage’ known as The Breakers, are open to the public. Go for a private tour or even an intimate meal in one of the locations open to overnight guests.

With half of the island under conservation, Block Island offers a secluded beach environment. It gives you the same picturesque grass-and-dunes atmosphere you would enjoy in Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. However, the island comes with more privacy and a friendlier price tag.

What's your favorite New England destination for a romantic day trip with your partner? Share your favorite vista, sunset, or secluded spot with us on Facebook and reserve your car rental today with Hertz.