New England News
What’s New from Discover New England
Connecticut
Bradley International Airport Infrastructure Upgrades, Hartford. New England’s second largest airport – offering small airport convenience with big airport-like amenities will be unveiling more than $250 million in infrastructure upgrades, which will make international travel on the daily Aer Lingus flights even more seamless.
DNE Member Partner – Bradley International Airport
Quassy Amusement Park & Waterpark, Middlebury. Introducing two new rides this year: a spinning family roller coaster featuring a thrilling figure-eight track design with cars that rotate as they glide along the course, and “Aladdin Wave Swinger,” a swing ride inspired by the movie Aladdin.
The Aldrich Museum, Ridgefield. Recently expanded its outdoor space by adding a new sculpture garden, a pollinator-friendly walkway, and an amphitheater.
New England Air Museum, Windsor Locks. A new exhibit has been added to the museum called “Through the Eyes of Igor Sikorsky” where guests can explore the life and legacy of helicopter pioneer Igor Sikorsky.
Arethusa Farm, Litchfield. Transformed into an educational center offering agricultural programming and hands-on experiences, the 140-acre property will host various educational initiatives, aiming to engage visitors of all ages and is hosting its first 4-H Camp this summer. Arethusa Farm recently made history at the U.S. Championship Cheese Contest, winning Best in Show for the second consecutive year—an honor no creamery has achieved in 40 years. Its Europa cheese was named the best among 2,400 cheeses in the competition.
Stonington Kelp, Stonington. Connecticut’s largest kelp farm recently started offering eco farm tours from February through June. The team takes guests on a journey aboard its harvest vessel to the farm site where they’ll learn about its role in the ecosystem and, when available, help with harvesting.
Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge, Simsbury. After a major renovation, the town will be reopening its newly improved Flower Bridge located in the heart of downtown Simsbury. Originally designed and built in 1892, the bridge spans 183 ft. and is lined with beautiful flowers suspended 18 feet over the Farmington River.
Wells Boat Hall at Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic. The historic seaport museum will be opening a brand-new 35,000 square-foot exhibition space this fall that will house the American Watercraft Collection. The museum started its private watercraft collection in 1931 and has grown it to 560 vessels. Visitors will be immersed in sea stories as they wander among a collection filled with vessels.
Brownstone Nordic Spa, Portland. A new adults-only Nordic Spa is currently being built on 6.3 acres of land at Brownstone Quarry and is expected to open in fall 2025. Utilizing a combination of hot and cold pools to stimulate a range of health benefits, a Nordic Spa aims to create a space for deep relaxation and connection with nature.
Connecticut Oyster Trail, Statewide. The first-ever statewide trail dedicated to oysters features more than a dozen oyster farms and over 20 restaurants and stores where visitors can savor delectable oysters harvested in Connecticut.
Fork and Band Slingshot Shooting Gallery, Bristol. Come to the planet’s only dedicated indoor slingshot shooting gallery. The handmade slingshots used in the facility are customized for each player’s reach with hand-tied elastic band sets, elevating both safety and customer experience through increased accuracy.
Saybrook Point Inn, Old Saybrook. The 82-room luxury hotel, located on the Long Island Sound, now offers Butler Service in addition to its Fresh Salt Restaurant and a full-service spa.
Lime Rock Park, Lakeview. After a 14-year hiatus, NASCAR will once again race at Lime Rock Park as the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series makes its debut at the Connecticut circuit on June 27-28, 2025.
DELMAR Mystic, Mystic. Open seasonally, this new boutique hotel situated on the Mystic River offers 31 rooms, all with water views, and La Plage Restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining on the water.
Stanton House at The Whaler’s Inn, Mystic. Opening this summer, the Stanton House offers sweeping panoramic views of the Mystic River and the iconic Bascule Bridge. The four-story building features both suites and guest rooms along with world-class amenities. Each premier suite boasts spacious living areas, indoor-outdoor fireplaces, and private balconies.
Hunt Hill Farm, New Milford. Now reopened, this dairy farm includes 10 historic buildings—some dating back to 1760—nestled on 185 acres of nature preservation. It’s the birthplace of the New York Pops and home to The Silo Cooking School, Connecticut’s first recreational cooking school.
Connecticut Accolades
- Shipwright’s Daughter Chef David Standridge has been recognized as a James Beard Award winner for Best Chef, Northeast in 2024. Located in the Whaler’s Inn, in downtown Mystic.
Maine
Enhanced Riverside Trails, Towns of Bath and Brewer. New installations along two riverside trails in Maine are the perfect locale for just that. The nonprofit Bath at Play installed a large xylophone and four-page music book for the Riverwalk Rhythm in Bath’s Bridge Park along the Kennebec River in 2024. The xylophone, also called a cavatina, is made by Percussion Play and is designed to withstand the elements year-round. In October 2024, Brewer opened “Cool Tones on the Riverwalk,” an interactive music park nestled along the scenic Brewer Riverwalk with six stand-alone instruments to play with provided mallets or just with your hands. The music park includes tubular bells, a xylophone and babel drums, and more instruments are expected to be added in the future.
Portland Hearts of Pine, Portland. Sports lovers are in for a treat when professional soccer comes to Portland in 2025. The Portland Hearts of Pine is part of the USL League One and fans can watch them in action at their home field, Fitzpatrick Stadium.
New Frances Perkins Homestead National Monument, Newcastle. Located adjacent to the Damariscotta River, the Frances Perkins Homestead National Monument honors Frances Perkins’ (1880-1965) trailblazing advocacy for social justice and labor rights. The first woman to hold a Cabinet position in the U.S. as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, she was the driving force behind many of the benefits and safeguards American workers count on today. Visitors can explore the historic barn and trails where Perkins rejuvenated and sought inspiration.
New Sauna for DoryWoman Rowing, Belfast. Offering lessons and guided tours in a traditional-style wooden dory with an experienced Maine Guide and open water rower, they will extend their services in the winter months with a new sauna.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay. In partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance, The gardens has commissioned two new major works by Indigenous artists Shane Perley-Dutcher from the Neqotkuk Wolasqiyik (Tobique First Nation) and Anna Tsouhlarakis, an enrolled citizen of the Navajo Nation and Muscogee Creek, to create permanent public art pieces that amplifies Indigenous wisdom, artistry, and presence.
The Asticou Hotel, Northeast Harbor. Reopens following a year-long $28 million renovation. The new look and feel preserves the original structure and paying homage to its historic roots. The hotel’s 82 rooms include 50 renovated guestrooms and suites inside the original inn, and the addition of 15 harborside cottages and 17 harbor-view spa suites with terraces. The property will offer dining options, a heated pool with a poolside bar and grille, a spa, fitness center and more.
The Skowhegan by Kasa, Skowhegan. Opened during spring of 2025 in the Kennebec Valley town of Skowhegan as part of an overall redevelopment of the old Spinning Mill, a textile mill and manufacturing site along the Kennebec River. Kasa is known for its tech-enabled hospitality.
The Brunswick Hotel, Brunswick. Reopening after a multi-million-dollar hotel and restaurant renovation. The renovation is a complete redesign of the hotel’s interior, guest rooms, public spaces, and the signature Noble Kitchen & Bar.
Maine Accolades
- Maine’s Bold Coast was named one of 25 Places to Travel in 2025 by AFAR
- Bar Harbor was named one of 30 of The World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report
- Ogunquit Beach was named one of the 8 Best Beaches on the East Coast by Conde Nast Traveler
- The Viewpoint Hotel in York was named one of The World’s Greatest Places of 2025 by TIME magazine
- Acadia National Park was listed as # 1 of the 50 Most Beautiful Places in America by Conde Nast Traveler
Massachusetts
Year of Celebration, More 400th Anniversary Events Announced, Quincy. As Quincy marks its 400th anniversary, this coastal city just south of Boston, known as the birthplace of Presidents, is adding to their calendar of events a Flag Day Parade, a Kidsfest, and concerts by Darius Rucker and John Fogerty. Even more Quincy400 events are expected to be announced throughout the summer.
DNE Member Partner – Discover Quincy
Raffles and Museum of Fine Art, Boston. The first address of Raffles Hotels & Resorts in North America announced the launch of an exciting partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA). The partnership, which brings together two iconic establishments renowned for championing art and creativity, aims to collaborate and offer unique guest experiences that celebrate art appreciation, innovation, and dialogue. Guests may now book the ‘Affair of the Arts’ room package featuring suite accommodation, hotel museum pass for two, dining credit of USD 100, plus a unique keepsake from the MFA and Raffles Boston. The rates start at USD 1,541++ per night.
Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham. Set to open later this month, the resort’s South Lounge will be reimagined with a custom, restored vintage bar and floor-to-ceiling French doors that lead to a newly installed open-air Bayview Terrace. This new setting will expand the beloved gathering space for guests who can enjoy sunset cocktails on the terrace with incredible ocean views, light bites and live music.
This summer, Chatham Bars Inn’s new luxury pontoon boat is fully operational. Guests can spend a carefree afternoon on the pontoon combining fun and relaxation with the luxury of high-end finishes, plush seating, and an array of premium amenities. Guests can also take a charter to Nantucket or embark on a fishing excursion in one of the resort’s 6 boats. A complimentary daily water shuttle can escort guests to the world famous “outer beach” on the Cape Cod National Seashore’s North Beach Island. In addition to offshore boating, the resort offers kayaks, stand-up-paddle boards, sunfish, lobstering, fishing and seal cruises.
New Hampshire
Conway Scenic Railroad, North Conway. Now offering year-round excursions. For the first time in 60+ years, travel by train over scenic Crawford Notch during the wintertime. This is a seasonal variation of their Mountaineer train, offering stunning views of the White Mountains. Starting this summer, the Conway Scenic Railroad will begin offering the opportunity to take the Mountaineer from Crawford Notch to our North Conway train station, with a 30-minute layover in North Conway before departing back to Crawford Notch. Tentatively, the train will depart from Crawford at 11:15 AM and arrive at North Conway at 1 PM. The train back will depart North Conway at 1:30 PM and arrive at Crawford at 3:15 PM.
DNE Member Partner – Conway Scenic Railroad
Arts Alley, Concord. Open spring 2025, a new hub for arts, culture, food and fun in the Capital City. Arts Alley will be a blend of restaurant, entertainment and upscale event spaces. The space will feature The Friendly Toast, the South Main Street Surfer Bar, an outdoor entertainment space featuring a rooftop deck, fire pits, bocce court and a repurposed Airstream rebuilt as a full-service bar. The courtyard will host a 1942 Silk City Dingman Diner.
The Lake Estate on Winnisquam, Tilton. Opening late summer/early fall of 2025. Experience the serenity of lakeside living along the quiet ambience of the calm waters of Lake Winnisquam. Multiple dining options on site with James Beard Foundation Award nominee and Top Chef alum Chef Chris Viaud as Director of Culinary Arts.
Hilton Garden Inn, North Conway. Opened October 2024 and situated in the heart of the Mount Washington Valley, this new 90-room upscale property is minutes from local preserves, amusement centers, outlet shopping, and a number of other attractions.
The Viewpoint North Conway, North Conway. Opened spring of 2025, this brand new, 3-story, 70-room luxury property is located right in the center of North Conway. This mountain retreat offers guests unparalleled luxury, relaxation and convenience in the picturesque Mount Washington Valley with stunning views of the Presidential Mountain Range. A rooftop bar and grill are also located on site.
New Hampshire State Parks Anniversary, Statewide. 2025 marks 90 years of the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation and the state’s dedication to preserving state lands. In 1935, Forestry and Recreation was created. At that time, there were 18 park properties under state ownership, the oldest being Miller State Park which was acquired in 1881. Today, Parks & Rec manages 93 state park properties from campgrounds, hiking parks and natural areas to waysides, recreational trails and inland and seacoast beaches.
New Hampshire Accolades
- Omni Mount Washington in Bretton Woods was named #7 in USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Hotel for the Holidays
- Dancing Lion Chocolate in Manchester was named Confectionery Store of the year by Luxury Travel Guide of the 90,000 submissions from around the world.
Rhode Island
Asian American Pacific Islander History Museum, Providence. First in the nation Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) History Museum – located in the city’s historic Jewelry District, the museum features images, videos, and audio under four overarching themes of activism, identity, migration/immigration, and solidarity.
DNE Member Partner – GoProvidence
Track15, Providence Food Hall, Providence. The long-awaited food hall opened in February 2025, featuring a full lineup of new local vendors and culinary experiences. This will be a hot spot for food lovers and a significant addition to the city’s dining scene.
DNE Member Partner – GoProvidence
Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, Providence. Brown’s Haffenreffer Museum is making a big move in fall 2025, with its collections and staff relocating to a newly renovated space at 1 Davol Square in Providence’s Jewelry District. This promises to be a major addition to the museum scene in the state, bringing fresh exhibitions and new energy to downtown Providence.
Centreville Bank Stadium, Pawtucket. The home of Rhode Island FC is now the flagship destination for sports and entertainment in the state and will host the 2025 Major League Rugby (MLR) Championship. This new multi-use stadium is expected to draw larger events and more visitors to the region.
Island House Newport, Newport. The biggest new accommodation opening in Rhode Island in 2025 is Island House Newport, a boutique hotel in Newport. The hotel was developed by Marshall Properties and is operated by Main Street Hospitality, marking a major addition to Newport’s hospitality scene.
The Royce Newport, Newport. Opened spring 2025, and located in the heart of downtown Newport, just a three-minute stroll from Bowens Wharf, The Royce Newport combines historic charm with pure luxury. Choose from their stunning seven-suite house or the cozy three-bedroom smaller house, perfect for families. Unwind in a beautiful bluestone courtyard with a gas fire pit.
Newport Pickleball Club, Middletown. This state-of-the art facility opened its doors in 2025. Boasting 11 indoor courts, a restaurant and bar, as well as a private events pace, Newport Pickleball Club has quickly grown to be a community hub of activity, as well as a welcoming environment for private celebrations.
Remy’s Loose – The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Newport. Situated overlooking the infamous Cliff Walk and ocean views, the award-winning Chanler at Cliff Walk welcomed their new restaurant concept, Remy’s Loose. The open kitchen offers a glimpse into the culinary artistry behind each dish, while The Terrace at Remy’s Loose offers a relaxed coastal ambiance.
Self-Guided Tours at The Colony House, Newport. The Colony House (1739) is the fourth oldest state house still standing in the U.S. and is now offering self-guided tours. Explore the rich history in the palm of your hand with this newly launched QR Code tour. Each QR uncovers a layer of Newport’s Revolutionary history through the lens of the Colony House from Early Resistance to the British and French Occupations of the city.
Newport Vineyards – Picnic Experiences, Middletown. Newport Vineyards is now offering an exclusive picnic experience in the row of vines. Perfect for groups of 6-20, enjoy a unique and memorable celebration amidst the vines, complete with wine flights and picnic style seating. Available Fridays through Sundays, from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend.
Rhode Island Accolades
- Forbes named Newport #3 for “Most Welcoming Cities in the U.S.” (Feb 2025)
- Cosmopolitan named Newport #1 “Best Girls’ Trip Destinations in the U.S.” (Feb 2025)
- Time Out named Newport Folk Festival as one of the “Best Music Festivals in the United States” (Feb 2025)
- Travel & Leisure named Newport one of the “20 Best Weekend Getaways in New England” (Jan 2025)
Vermont
Golden Dog Farm, Jefferson. A new agritourism attraction offering tours for maple syrup and honey making, but their most popular attraction is the Golden Retriever Experience where visitors enjoy a playdate with at least ten golden retrievers on the bucolic farm setting in the green mountains.
Vermont Wayfinders, Springfield. A new company offering private guided tours to show people the hidden gems on the back roads of Vermont in an off-road ready Ford Bronco. Vermont Wayfinders will also be offering self-directed audio tours which don’t require a cell signal, perfect for visitors who want to explore more of the state.
Rebranding Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, Stowe. 2025 marks the 75th Anniversary of the iconic Trapp Family Lodge and the unveiling of their new name and brand identity as the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort. Per the official press release, “The von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort is so much more than a name. It’s an enduring commitment to hospitality, natural beauty, and the values that have guided our family for decades.”
Après Inn, Killington. Opened June 2024 and is only 4.3 kilometers from Killington Mountain Resort. It’s the perfect basecamp for the day’s adventure and the evening’s dining & nightlife. All rooms have a coffee station, microwave, and mini-fridge and are pet-friendly.
Accessible Mountain Biking Trail System Unveiled, Bolton. In August of 2024, Vermont unveiled the “Driving Range” trail network in Bolton which is the first fully accessible adaptive mountain bike trail system. With trails that give adaptive riders a sense of belonging, that allow access to miles of trails in one location, and that are equally exciting and fun for riders on two-wheeled mountain bikes, The Driving Range is a truly inclusive place to ride.
Cheese Week, Statewide. The annual Vermont Cheesemakers Festival held in September has been transformed into Cheese Week, which is a state-wide weeklong celebration of all things Vermont Cheese. Events include farm visits, cheese dinners, tastings and pairings, and educational experiences.
Vermont Accolades
- Vermont was named the #1 Greenest State in the US in 2025 by Wallet Hub.
