Quaint, charming, picturesque-whatever adjective you want to use to describe these towns, the feeling at the end is mutual. You’ll be overcome with joy, exploding with warm and fuzzy butterflies and maybe shed a tear or two by taking in the glory of these quaint New England towns all within a train ride or 3-hour drive of Boston.
Added bonus, all of the towns listed below are accessible by MBTA Commuter Rail trains, the CapeFLYER, Amtrak, or bus (with the exception of Stowe), so you can grab your favorite novel and live out your main character moment:
Massachusetts
Oak Bluffs
The place to stay in Martha’s Vineyard-2 miles of shallow water and the country’ oldest operating carousel make this town ooze charm. No wonder it’s a favorite of presidents and celebrities.
Nantucket
This quaint island is flooded with tourists, so it is important to consider when you’ll visit. However, the tourists come for good reason, it’s the quintessential New England summer destination. Enjoy the many clear beaches and white sand, ride a boat along the coast, and indulge in the fresh catch at the amazing local restaurants.
Lenox
Nestled in the Berkshires, you’ll find a great theatres scene and beautiful 18th century architecture at the Trustees estates!
Lexington
Needing no introduction, this historic town is quite charming. Just 15 minutes from Cambridge, it’s a popular place for biking, outdoor movie nights, and home to the cottage-core chic Inn at Hastings Park and its incredibly magnificent high tea!
Gloucester
The North Shore as a whole has some of the most charming beach towns. And they’re all so close together, so you can visit them all! But if we had to choose just one it’d be relaxing on the super clear beaches and enjoying the yummy food in Gloucester!
Rhode Island
Westerly
The sleepy Rhode Island town is home to Ocean House, one of America’s most marvelous resorts. Despite the popular destination, Westerly is a calming mix of locals and New Englanders looking for a relaxed beach outing away from Cape traffic.
New Hampshire
Sugar Hill
As the name suggests, you’re in for a sweet time! This town is tiny, tiny, with just about 600 residents. However, you can enjoy the Lupine Festival and grab pancakes at 1830s baked Polly’s Pancake Parlor, and top it all off with a fun tour of the town!
Connecticut
Washington
If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, you’ll know that Stars hollow is just about the most adorable fictional town to ever exist. So, why not visit the town that inspired Stars Hollow? The show’s creator, Amy Sherman Palladino was staying at Washington’s Mayflower Inn when she was inspired to create the show.
Mystic
Home of the movie Mystic Pizza and Matt Damon’s first movie appearance, Mystic is as charming off-screen as it is on the screen! It’s a great trip in the summer, and a very walking-friendly small town with the plethora of sidewalks!
Maine
Ogunquit
Home to one of the best beaches in America, this cute town is the perfect beach getaway. Just 80 minutes from the city, it’s perfect if you don’t feel like taking a ferry.
Kennebunkport
Known as America’s second-best Christmas town, Kennebunkport is a perfect getaway year-round! The town is super active so they’re always hosting seasonal activities even beyond December, like painting the town red.
Vermont
Stowe
Ski country USA and “one of the world’s most beautiful small towns.” Although not a coastal town, Stowe is still equally quaint and wonderful. It’s one of the top skiing destinations in the country and a lovely place to enjoy stunning landscapes and scenic walks.