New England offers stunning views and travel destinations up and down the East Coast, which makes it the perfect location for a road trip. Fly into Newark International Airport (EWR), and grab an EWR car rental to start off your adventure. With so many unique places to visit, you’ll want to take plenty of pictures; this road trip is one you’ll likely look back fondly on for many years.
Plymouth, MA
The first stop on this east coast road trip is one history buffs won’t want to miss. Located roughly four hours away from EWR, Plymouth Rock is largely believed to be the arrival spot of William Bradford and the rest of the men and women who went on to form the first New England colony in the early 1600s.
Now located in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, more than 1 million visitors flock to this historic spot each year.
Salem, MA
Just over an hour up the road, the next stop will bring you to the historic Salem, MA, home of the famous Salem Witch Trials. The city has embraced its spooky history, which offers plenty of places to visit to get an idea of what the trials were like.
Visit Howard Street Cemetery, which is largely known as one of the Salem Witch Trials burial grounds. Check out the home of Witch Trials Judge Jonathan Corwin at the Witch House. Learn the history of the trials at the Salem Witch Museum, and let it all come alive with a witch trial reenactment at the Witch Dungeon Museum.
Rockport, MA
The Twin Lights have stood as stunning beacons in the storm since 1771 and 1778, which has earned them the distinction as both two of the oldest lighthouses in America as well as the only remaining twin lights on the US coasts.
The Twin Lights, otherwise known as Cape Ann Light Station, are located on Thacher Island. Visitors can take a free boat to the island from Rockport Harbor.
Portsmouth, NH
As you continue up the coast you’ll come to the final stop near Portsmouth, NH for an awe-inspiring adventure—whale watching. The Granite State Whale Watch company offers whale watching tours that are 4 to 5 hours long from May to October.
While no touring company can guarantee sightings as the whales are wild, this company boasts a 99% sighting record. While on your tour, you might see Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, Finback Whales, or even Right Whales. Visitors have also seen Harbor Porpoises, Atlantic White-Sided Dolphins, Pilot Whales, and more. Make reservations in advance to guarantee your spot.
Use this travel guide to start planning your road trip up the East Coast. Avis offers a wide selection of rental cars and has car rental locations across the nation to make the trip as convenient and comfortable as possible.
If you’ve never navigated New England before, you might not be prepared for all of the toll roads. Luckily, when you select Avis Rent a Car in Newark, you can take advantage of our e-toll service.