Luxury Camping Resorts New England: Glamping Edition
Who says you have to rough it to enjoy the great outdoors? If you love the idea of waking up with nature but prefer luxury bedding and morning coffee with actual espresso, luxury camping (or glamping, if you will) is the way to go. Whether youโre after a cozy A-frame in the woods, a safari tent with all the creature comforts, a vintage Airstream or a private island retreat with beach access, New England has plenty of luxury camping resorts to choose from. Hereโs where to book your luxury camping in New England… Desert of Maine Camping, but make it bougie… ๐Desert of Maine ~ 95 Desert Rd., Freeport, ME 04032 ๐ Season: May – October ๐ฐ Rates: $250 – $450 per night ๐ desertofmaine.com Tucked away in the Maine woods, Desert of Maine is a 20-acre expanse of golden glacial sand dunes rising like a mirage…a desert in the middle of New England! This otherworldly destination has been wowing visitors for over a century. Spend your days on the dunes, digging for fossils, playing at the playground, or riding the scenic train, then unwind beneath a sky full of stars in this truly one-of-a-kind luxury camp setting. Not your average train ride. Maineโฆbut make it a desert. On-site activities: Mini golf, gemstone village, fossil dig, nature playground, train ride Great for families: Tons of kid-friendly activities plus easy access to downtown Freeport’s shops and dining Unique setting: Sleep near the dunes, an experience you wonโt find anywhere else in New England Like the idea of an easy, stress-free getaway? These All-Inclusive Resorts in the Northeast handle all the details, so you donโt have to. Sandy Pines Campground Camping, but your morning coffee comes with a porch view. ๐ Sandy Pines Campground ~ 277 Mills Rd., Kennebunkport, ME 04046 ๐ Season: May – October ๐ฐ Rates: $450 – $550 per night ๐ sandypinescamping.com Tucked among the towering pines and just a stoneโs throw from Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, Sandy Pines Campground blends beachy vibes with rustic luxury. Wake up in a stylish safari tent or a storybook cottage, complete with climate control and hotel-quality bedding. Whether youโre spending the day exploring Dock Square, renting bikes, or stretching out in the sand, this is glamping at its finest…laid-back, luxurious, and effortlessly New England. Camping with a pool? Now weโre talking. Rustic charm with all the comforts of home. Top-tier amenities: Heated outdoor pool, private showers, playground, general store, laundry facilities Outdoor recreation: Lawn games, bike rentals, paddleboarding, kayaking Weekly events: Campfire cooking lessons, kidsโ crafts, live music, and yoga If waking up to waves sounds better than waking up in the woods, youโll love these Stunning Oceanfront Places to Stay in Maine. Fortland A yurt with a skylight? Yes, please. ๐ Fortland ~ House Island, Casco Bay, ME ๐ Season: June – October ๐ฐ Rates: $300 – $800 per night (2-night minimum) ๐ fortlandmaine.com Leave the mainland behind and step into an island retreat like no other. Accessible only by a 10-minute boat ride, Fortland is an eco-friendly escape where just seven campsites dot the coastline, ensuring total privacy. Whether youโre unwinding in a cozy yurt or a luxury tent cabin, youโll have direct access to three private beaches, historic Fort Scammel, and some of the best stargazing in Maine. This is glamping with a sense of adventure. Camping, but with designer vibes…. Sleep near history, but with better amenities. Getting there: Park at Bug Light Boat Launch and take a 10-minute boat ride to the island. The check-in boat leaves daily at 3:30 pm. Accommodations: Yurts (sleeps 4), tent cabins (sleeps 3), linens and towels included. Perks: Three private beaches, fire pits, solar-powered charging, and a community kitchen. Need a place that entertains both little adventurers and too-cool-for-this teens? These Resorts with Activities for Teens and Tots deliver. Terramor Cozy bunks, board games, and just the right amount of nature! ย ๐Terramor ~ 1453 ME-102, Bar Harbor, ME 04609 ๐ Season: Mid-May – Mid-October ๐ฐ Rates: $500 – $600 per night ๐ terramoroutdoorresort.com Located on Mount Desert Island, just minutes from Acadia National Park, Terramor offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and refined comfort. Wake up in a spacious safari-style tent, step onto your private deck, and breathe in the fresh Maine air before exploring coastal trails, rocky shorelines, and breathtaking mountain vistas. After a full day of adventure, return to Terramor and enjoy plush bedding, lantern-lit pathways and star-filled skies. The best kind of โwilderness survival.โ A lodge so nice, youโll forget youโre camping. Luxury accommodations: Safari-style tents with private bathrooms, heated blankets, and lanterns. On-site perks: Heated pool, hot tub, complimentary firewood, and an on-site restaurant. Outdoor adventure: Free hiking gear rentals and easy access to Acadiaโs top trails. Huttopia of Southern Maine Who needs a sleeping bag when you can have a bed this cozy? ๐Huttopia of Southern Maine ~ย 149 Sand Pond Rd., Sanford, ME 04073 ๐ Season: Mid-May – Mid-October ๐ฐ Rates: Luxe tents $250 – $300 per night, tiny house cabins $350 – $400 per night. ๐ canada-usa.huttopia.com At Huttopia of Southern Maine, glamping is all about simplicity, comfort, and connection with nature. Situated beside a peaceful private lake, this French-inspired retreat boasts cozy canvas tents and charming tiny houses, all crafted for easygoing outdoor living. Spend your days canoeing, swimming, or relaxing by the water, then gather around the fire pit or enjoy live entertainment and fresh crรชpes from the on-site cafรฉ.ย Morning coffee just tastes better with a lake view. Because even little campers need a five-star experience… Waterside fun: Canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Family-friendly entertainment: Playground, live music, kidsโ club, and magic shows. Convenience: On-site cafรฉ serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a well-stocked camp store. Lumen Nature Retreat Lumen Nature Retreat makes โoutdoorsyโ feel downright luxurious. ๐ Lumen Nature Resort ~ย 11 Sugar Plum Ln., Woodstock, NH 03293 ๐ Season: Year-round ๐ฐ Rates: $350 – $400 per night ๐ lumenretreat.com Tucked away on 20 peaceful acres in
Top New England Resorts with Activities for Teens and Tots
Planning a family getaway that keeps teens entertained, little ones happy, and you relaxed can feel impossible. Thatโs why weโve rounded up the Best New England Resorts with Activities for families just like yours. These amazing destinations offer fun for the whole family. Picture kiddie pools and scavenger hunts for younger kids, ziplining and surfing for teenagers, and spa treatments, babysitting services, and beachside relaxation for you. Whether you dream of a cozy lakeside escape in Vermont, a luxurious beachside resort in Rhode Island, or a family-friendly summer camp experience in Maine, this list has it all. From the historic charm of downtown Nantucket to the majestic White Mountains of New Hampshire, these resorts are designed to keep everyone happy, regardless of age or interest. Ready to Explore New Englandโs Best Resorts with Activities? Explore The Nantucket Hotel with its classic vintage bus and firetruck (photo credit: The Nantucket Hotel and Resort) The Nantucket Hotel and Resort Get ready to soak up all the classic island vibes at The Nantucket Hotel and Resortโa luxury resort thatโs thought of everything for the whole family! Little ones can splash in the dedicated kiddie pool, ride a vintage firetruck (a kid favorite!), and enjoy the drop-off kids club. Older kids at The Nantucket Hotel will enjoy relaxing in the hot tub or catching outdoor movies by the pool in the summer. And for you? This luxury resort offers plenty to help you unwind, including complimentary beach shuttles, fitness center classes, and dining options that showcase local cuisine. Plus, private cottages are available for families who want a little extra privacy. Location: 77 Easton St, Nantucket, MA Starting Rate: $415/night. Summer rates start at $1250/night Website: The Nantucket Hotel and Resort What Little Kids Love About The Nantucket Hotel Kiddie Pool: Splash zone for tiny toes! Sโmores by the Firepit: Toasty treats under the stars. Vintage Firetruck Rides: A kidโs dream come true on wheels. Kids Club: Fun activities while parents catch a break. Close to Childrenโs Beach: A quick stroll to the playground and sandy shores. What Big Kids Love About The Nantucket Hotel Summer Movies by the Pool: Big-screen fun under the stars. Hot Tub (14+): Exclusive relaxation for older kids. Quick Walk to Downtown Nantucket: Ice cream at The Juice Bar is just a skip away! What Adults Love About The Nantucket Hotel Airport & Ferry Pickup: Start your trip stress-free. Barre Classes & Workout Options: Stay fit, island-style. Beach Shuttles & Poolside Dining: Pure Nantucket bliss. Private Cottages: Tuck in for a cozy stay that feels like home. Drop-Off Kids Dinner (July-August): Enjoy a kid-free evening for a change. Seasonal Tips For The Nantucket Hotel Winter: The Christmas Stroll and Brunch with Santa are holiday musts. Summer: Donโt miss the Monday Clambakes and free beach shuttles! The grand Omni Mount Washington Resort blanketed in snow, offering winter activities for the whole family. Omni Mount Washington Resort The Omni Mount Washington Resort is the perfect place for a family-friendly New England vacation where everyone can find something to love. For little ones, there are mini spa treatments at the award-winning spa, sโmores at the firepit, and a drop-off kids club. Older kids can get their thrill on with the zipline canopy tour, horseback riding, rock climbing and more! Donโt worry; youโll have plenty of ways to unwind, too. Enjoy the award-winning spa, tennis courts, or scenic gondola rides with a view. Dining options range from casual bites to meals featuring local cuisine. Plus, the daily schedule is packed with outdoor activities and daily events to entertain the whole family. Location: 310 Mount Washington Hotel Rd, Bretton Woods, NH Starting Rate: $185/night. Summer rates start at $350/night Website: Omni Mount Washington Resort What Little Kids Love About The Omni Mount Washington Resort Mini Spa Treatments: Yes, even your mini-me deserves a little pampering! Pony Rides ($15): Yeehaw! Little cowboys and cowgirls, saddle up. Sโmores at the Firepit: Gooey, sticky fun by the outdoor firepit. Kidsโ Club: Drop-off time for ages 5-12, so they get their own adventure. Dinner Program ($30): Drop-off dinner program from 5-9 pm for kids with a taste for independence. Heated Indoor Pool: Year-round fun for water-loving littles. What Big Kids Love About The Omni Mount Washington Resort Zipline Canopy Tour (Ages 12+): Fly through the treetops for an unforgettable view. Horseback Trail Rides (Ages 8+): Trailblaze through the stunning scenery. Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking: A playground for thrill-seekers. Disc Golf and Fly Fishing: Perfect for adventurous tweens and teens. What Adults Love About Omni Mount Washington Resort Award-Winning Spa: Treat yourself to profound relaxation. Tennis Lessons: Game, set, matchโwhether youโre a beginner or a pro. Family Gondola Rides: Soak in the mountain views together. Kidsโ Clubs & Dinner Options: Drop-off programs mean guilt-free relaxation. Seasonal Tips For Omni Mount Washington Resort Summer: Donโt miss the scenic Mount Washington Cog Railway ride! A true New Hampshire gem! Winter: Skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides make winter at Omni Mt. Washington Resort magical. Looking to explore more? Check out all the Fun Things to Do in North Conway, less than an hour from the resort. The elegant Ocean House resort shines under a spring sky (photo credit: Ocean House) Ocean House If thereโs one place where everyone feels like a VIP, itโs Ocean House in Westerly, Rhode Island. Little ones can hunt for treasure on scavenger hunts or take private surf lessons, while older kids can enjoy outdoor activities like paddleboarding and biking. For the adults, your vacation includes access to the spa, fitness center, and a unique BMW test program. And if youโre up for true luxury, grab a private cabana on the beach, where you can sip adult beverages and enjoy local cuisine by the ocean. Location: 1 Bluff Ave, Westerly, RI Starting Rate: $425/night. Summer rates start at $1280/night Website: Ocean House, Watch Hill What Little Kids Love About Ocean House Screening Room Movies: Big screen, little seatsโperfect for rainy days. Scavenger Hunt: Adventure awaits
4 Fun Coastal Thanksgiving Vacation Ideas in New England
Look, weโve all been there… You spend hours planning, shopping, and preparing for Thanksgiving. The kids get bored and probably wonโt eat what you cooked, and youโre not looking forward to talking current news with the family members you see once a year (especially this year). If youโre already stressed just thinking about hosting a Thanksgiving feast this year, hereโs a better ideaโescape! Let someone else handle the cooking, the cleanup, and the chaos. With these New England Thanksgiving vacation ideas, youโll trade in the family drama for fun-filled activities and a chance to actually enjoy Thanksgiving weekend. Pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready to dive into the ultimate Thanksgiving getawaysโNew England Coastal Edition. Don’t worry! We’ve done all the research so you donโt have to! Plymouth, Massachusetts History comes alive aboard the Mayflower II in Plymouth, MA. Surround yourself with over 400 years of history. Step back into the heart of history this Thanksgiving in Plymouth, MA. From interactive exhibits at Plimoth Patuxet to visiting Plymouth Rock, this town offers a perfect mix of historical charm, a walkable downtown and waterfront, and family-friendly activities. With November being one of its busiest months, Plymouth is packed with things to see and do, making it a great spot for a memorable New England Thanksgiving getaway. What is the Top Thanksgiving Attraction in Plymouth? Pumpkins and foliage shine at the Plimoth Grist Mill. Plimoth Patuxet Museums For an immersive, hands-on Thanksgiving experience, Plimoth Patuxet is a must-visit. These indoor/outdoor living history museums bring the 17th-century world of the Pilgrims and Wampanoag to life. Families can explore a recreated 17th-century English Village, step aboard the Mayflower II, visit the Historic Patuxet Homesite, or watch how corn was ground at the Plimoth Grist Mill. Itโs like walking into a history bookโonly way more fun! What to See: Step inside a Pilgrim home, try grinding corn, or even participate in a Pilgrim muster drill with Captain Miles Standish. At the Historic Patuxet Homesite, kids can enter a wetu (house), touch animal furs, and see how canoes were made. Cost: $46 for adults, $29 for kids (Heritage Ticket includes the Mayflower II and Plimoth Grist Mill). Single-attraction tickets start at $19 for adults and offer flexibility if you donโt want to visit every site. Pro Tip: The Mayflower II and Plimoth Grist Mill are located closer to downtown Plymouth and the waterfront, so youโll need transportation to travel between these attractions and Plimoth Patuxet. What is There to Do with Kids Along the Plymouth Waterfront? Pilgrim Memorial State Park along the waterfront in Plymouth, MA. Plymouth Rock & Pilgrim Memorial State Park No trip to Plymouth is complete without visiting Plymouth Rock at Pilgrim Memorial State Park. Although the rock is modest (small and boring), itโs a symbolic reminder of the Pilgrimsโ landing. Pilgrim Memorial State Park is also a great place to walk along the waterfront, enjoy the sea views, and learn a bit of history while exploring the monuments and memorials in the area. Itโs an easy, educational stop for families, and kids will love being able to say theyโve seen the famous Plymouth Rock! Nelson Park & Grace Trail Let the kids run off some steam at Nelson Park, located right on the Plymouth waterfront, with a playground perfect for little ones to burn off energy while you soak in the coastal scenery. Afterward, enjoy a walk along the Grace Trailโa 1-mile path that starts and ends at Nelson Memorial Park (255 Water St) along the Rail Trail at Plymouth Harbor. Along the way, you’ll find beautiful views and engaging prompts that make it a fun and active outing for the whole family. Ryanโs Family Amusements Just steps away from Plymouth Rock and the Plymouth Waterfront, Ryanโs Family Amusements is an arcade game room packed with the latest and greatest arcade and video games. Itโs the perfect spot for some family-friendly fun and a great way to take a break while keeping everyone entertained. Cost: $24.95 for 2 hours of unlimited gameplay. Are There Any Cool Thanksgiving Events in Plymouth? Thanksgiving weekend in Plymouth, MA is filled with historical recreations of the holiday. Thanksgiving Stroll Step into history with the 60-minute Thanksgiving Stroll around downtown Plymouth from 10 am- 11 am. Led by Spirit of Plymouth Tours, youโll learn why the Pilgrims settled in Plymouth and hear stories your schoolbooks may have left out. Itโs a fun, informative way to immerse yourself in the townโs rich history. Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for children. Tickets can be purchased through Spirit of Plymouth Tours. Thanksgiving Day Pilgrim Progress Experience a reenactment of the Pilgrims’ Sabbath procession, representing the survivors of the winter of 1621, at 10 am on Thanksgiving Day. Costumed participants march on North Street, past Plymouth Rock, up Leyden Street to Burial Hill for a brief Pilgrim worship service. After the service, the procession continues back down North Street to the Mayflower Society House. This unique event is a fantastic way for families to see history come alive. Cost: Free Pro Tip: Arrive at Water Street early to grab the best viewing spot! National Day of Mourning At 12 pm on Thanksgiving Day, the National Day of Mourning takes place at Coleโs Hill to honor Indigenous ancestors and their resilience. This tradition has been observed for over 50 years, serving as a time for remembrance and spiritual reflection. It provides families an opportunity to understand Thanksgiving from a broader perspective, recognizing that the Pilgrims’ arrival was a complex event that brought both challenges and changes to the Indigenous peoples of America. Cost: Free Location: Massasoit Statue, Coleโs Hill Where Should We Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in Plymouth? Bountiful Thanksgiving feast For one of the most unique Thanksgiving dining experiences, head to Plimoth Patuxet. Not only do you get a fantastic holiday meal, but the 2-day admission to the museums is included, so you can dive into history while you’re there. Imagine enjoying a feast inspired by the Pilgrims, then
7 New England Family Getaways to Inspire You This Winter
Looking to shake up your winter plans with a new family adventure? If youโre searching for inspiration, youโre in the right place. Whether youโre craving outdoor thrills or cozy indoor escapes, these destinations offer something for everyone. In this article, weโre diving into 7 of the best New England Family Getaways that will have you packing your bags in no time. From the snowy peaks of New Hampshireโs White Mountains to the warm embrace of a heated pool in Maine, these spots are designed to create memories your family will treasure. Get ready to discover your next favorite winter escape and make this seasonโs family vacation one for the books! 1 Newport, Rhode Island Lots of festive food to try at the 10-day Newport Winter Festival. Embrace the Cold at the Newport Winter Festival When winter rolls into Newport, Rhode Island, the townโs temperatures may drop, but the coastal charm doesnโt fadeโit gets even more magical. Known for its grand summer mansions and sandy beaches, Newport becomes a seasonal family haven during the Newport Winter Festival. For ten days in February (February 14- 23, 2025), Newport, RI, transforms into a lively winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights and plenty of Newport family activities to fill your day. Picture your kids’ excitement as they watch ice sculptures come to life, race through scavenger hunts, watch Polo on the beach or get lost in the wonder of live magic shows. The festival doesnโt just warm your heart; it fills your days with memories that will last long after the snow melts. Check out our Newport Winter Activitiesย guide for the best ways to make the most of the season. Last yearโs top Newport Winter Festival events included: Embrace the winter chill while watching ice carving. Fun Animal Encounters Puppet entertainer duo Magician/juggler Mad Science Show Teddy Bear Snuggle Storytime Ice Carving on Long Wharf Beach Polo on Second Beach Newport, RI, is such a fun place for a winter family getaway, especially when the Newport Winter Festival is in full swing. The whole town feels like a festive playground, with so many activities that the kidsโand youโwill love. Itโs the perfect spot to enjoy some winter magic together. Where to Stay for the Newport Winter Festival Newport Harbor Island Resort Photo Credit: Newport Harbor Island Resort Now called Newport Harbor Island Resort, this former Gurneyโs property is a fantastic choice for families looking to stay on the waterfront. With so many of the Newport Winter Festivalโs events hosted right at the resort, youโll be perfectly situated to enjoy all the fun without missing a beat. And if youโre exploring more places to stay in Newport, we’ve put together a guide to the Best Family Hotels in Newport, RI.ย You can check it out HERE! Indoor Pool for year-round enjoyment! Photo Credit: Newport Harbor Island Resort Family Amenities at Newport Harbor Island Resort: Heated indoor pool and hot tub Spacious suites Kids Club (ages 3-12) Game room Room service Shuttle to downtown Newport Welcome beverage Complimentary cribs and cots Baby supplies from BabyQuip If you’re looking for a winter getaway that offers something special, Newport, RI, should be on your listโespecially during the Newport Winter Festival. This is when Newport truly shines, with the festival bringing together the best of winter fun, learning, and entertainment for the whole family. Itโs one of those times when the town feels magical, and your visit will be filled with memories you wonโt forget. For all the details on this yearโs Newport Winter Festival, check out the link HERE. 2 North Conway, New Hampshire North Conway, NH, has been a popular winter family destination for over 100 years. Winter Wonderland in the White Mountains of New Hampshire Want to find a New England winter getaway that will keep the whole family excited? North Conway, set in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, is the perfect destination. For more than a century, North Conway has been a winter haven for families, offering the perfect mix of village charm, scenic beauty, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Itโs where your family can experience the magic of a true New England winter together. Cranmore Mountain Resort has everything you need for a day of outdoor fun in the White Mountains. Top Winter Attractions in North Conway, NH Cranmore Mountain Resort: Ski, snowboard, tube, or enjoy the Winter Mountain Adventure Park, which features a mountain coaster, giant swing, and zip line.ย Kahuna Laguna: An indoor water park thatโs perfect for a warm escape in the middle of winter.ย Snow Coach Tour: Take a snow coach tour on the Mount Washington Toll Road for stunning winter views.ย Ice Skating at Ham Public Ice Arena:ย Glide across the ice at this local rink.ย Living Shores Aquarium: Discover the wonders of marine lifeโcheck out our complete Guide to Aquariums in New Hampshire. Ryanโs North Conway Airpark: A 5,000 sq ft indoor playspace for kids to jump and bounce.ย Settlers Green Outlet Village: Enjoy tax-free shopping at a variety of stores.ย Ready to dive deeper into what North Conway has to offer? Check out our Full Guide to North Conway in the Winter for where to stay and all the best tips and recommendations. 3 Stowe, Vermont Take a ride on the Stowe Gondola Skyride An Idyllic Winter Getaway in Stowe, VT Picture this: snow-capped Green Mountains, historic covered bridges, and a classic white steeple church setting the perfect scene for your familyโs winter adventure. Now, add in arcades, ice skating, sleigh rides, and heated outdoor pools that will have your kids counting down the days until you arrive. Welcome to Stowe, where winter fun is around every corner. Whether itโs zooming down Mount Mansfieldโs famous slopes, twirling on the ice at Spruce Peak, cozying up on a magical sleigh ride, or splashing in a warm outdoor pool, Stowe offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and family-friendly activities for your next winter getaway. Make memories taking a family sleigh ride in Stowe, VT. Things
