Top 15 Fun and Romantic Winter Getaways in the Northeast
- Ryan Jones
- Feb 7
- 5 min read
Winter in the Northeast is truly magical, offering snow-covered landscapes, cozy inns, and charming towns perfect for a romantic escape. Whether you’re looking for a snowy mountain retreat, a coastal hideaway, or a festive holiday town, these destinations are ideal for couples seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here’s a helpful guide to the top 15 fun and romantic winter getaways in the Northeast to help you plan your perfect winter escape.

1. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington transforms into a picturesque winter retreat, with snow-covered streets, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Lake Champlain. Couples can stroll through Church Street Marketplace, sip hot chocolate at a local café, or take a scenic drive to Bolton Valley or Stowe for a ski adventure. The city’s vibrant arts and dining scene makes it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
2. Kennebunkport, Maine
This charming coastal town is known for its summer appeal, but winter brings fewer crowds, festive lights, and cozy waterfront stays. The annual Christmas Prelude turns Kennebunkport into a holiday wonderland, with twinkling lights and Christmas markets. Stay at The White Barn Inn, take a scenic walk along snow-dusted beaches, and enjoy a romantic dinner by the ocean.
3. North Conway, New Hampshire
Nestled in the White Mountains, North Conway is a dreamy winter retreat. Couples can go skiing at Cranmore Mountain, drive along the Kancamagus Highway, or cozy up in a quaint B&B with a roaring fireplace. The village also offers boutique shopping, local breweries, and scenic sleigh rides.
4. Portland, Maine
Portland’s cobblestone streets, charming Old Port district, and vibrant food scene make it an amazing winter getaway. Enjoy fresh Maine lobster at a waterfront restaurant, explore local breweries, or take a scenic drive along the snowy coastline. With fewer tourists in winter, you can experience the city in a more intimate and romantic setting.
5. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
This historic seaport town sparkles in winter, offering twinkling holiday lights, boutique shopping, and cozy taverns. Couples can explore Prescott Park, dine at the Black Trumpet, or take a romantic stroll along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail for breathtaking views of the snow-covered coastline. Click here for a list of Portsmouth, New Hampshire Hotels.
6. Stowe, Vermont
A postcard-perfect winter destination, Stowe is known for top-tier skiing, luxury lodges, and charming après-ski experiences. Enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, spa retreats, and cozy cabin stays surrounded by snow. Stowe is the ultimate destination for adventure-loving couples looking for both thrill and relaxation.
7. Stockbridge, Massachusetts
This Norman Rockwell-style Christmas town is magical in the winter, featuring classic New England charm and historic inns. Visit the famous Red Lion Inn, tour the Norman Rockwell Museum, or take a scenic drive through the Berkshires’ snow-covered landscapes for a cozy and nostalgic escape.
8. North Adams, Massachusetts
This artistic Berkshires town is perfect for couples who love culture and winter beauty. Explore MASS MoCA, one of the largest contemporary art museums in the U.S., go winter hiking at Mount Greylock, or enjoy a quiet evening in a cozy café.
9. Essex, Connecticut
Essex is a Hallmark movie town in winter, offering quaint streets, historic inns, and a charming, small-town atmosphere. The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat’s North Pole Express is a nostalgic and festive experience that transports couples into a winter wonderland.
10. Hyannis, Massachusetts
While Cape Cod is a summer favorite, Hyannis in winter is a peaceful, romantic escape. Take a coastal walk along snow-dusted beaches, visit secluded coves, and enjoy a bowl of clam chowder by the fire at a waterfront restaurant.
11. Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Fitchburg offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cozy relaxation. Hit the slopes at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, or warm up at Great Wolf Lodge, which features an indoor water park—perfect for couples looking for a unique winter experience.

12. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a coastal wonderland in winter, with stunning ocean views, grand Gilded Age mansions decorated for the holidays, and cozy boutique hotels. Take a romantic walk along the Cliff Walk, sip wine by the fire at a Newport winery, or attend the Newport Winter Festival.

13. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston in the winter is a romantic mix of history, culture, and festive charm. Ice skate at Frog Pond, explore the twinkling lights of Beacon Hill, or enjoy a candlelit dinner in the North End’s Italian restaurants. Warm up in the Boston Public Library, one of the coziest reading spots in the city.

14. New York City, New York
Few places do winter as magical as NYC. Ice skate at Rockefeller Center, take a snowy stroll through Central Park, or watch a Broadway show. From cozy speakeasies to the twinkling lights of Fifth Avenue, NYC is a winter wonderland for couples.
15. Lake Placid, New York
A true winter paradise, Lake Placid is one of the best snowy escapes in the Northeast. Couples can go ice skating on Mirror Lake, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the Adirondacks, or relax by a fireplace in a cozy mountain lodge. With its Olympic history and breathtaking scenery, Lake Placid is a must-visit for a romantic winter getaway.
Plan Your Perfect Winter Escape
No matter what kind of winter getaway you’re looking for—coastal charm, ski adventures, or small-town romance—the Northeast offers plenty of options for a magical and cozy escape. These 15 destinations offer the perfect mix of romance, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable winter experience for you and your partner. Which one will you visit first?
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