Planning a trip to some of the New England states? Here are some affordable cities to check out in the region:
Burlington, Vermont
The largest city in Vermont, Burlington is close to the Canadian border, making it a popular stop for some travelers headed to or from Canada on a road trip. Burlington is home to the University of Vermont, along with two smaller private colleges, so it definitely has that “college town” feel. The downtown area is hip and great for exploring on foot. There are lots of outdoor areas and parks, great restaurants, breweries, and more. The Waterfront Park area is great for kayaking or paddle boarding. When the sun goes down, hit some of the theaters, trendy bars, and brewpubs.
Braintree, Massachusetts
Staying in Braintree is an affordable option as compared to higher-priced hotels in neighboring Boston. It’s easy to get to popular attractions like the Museum of Science, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, Fenway Park, New England Aquarium, and more.
Examples of affordable properties in Braintree include the Best Western Rockland and the Holiday Inn Express Braintree. Expect average rates of around $16o for the Best Western and $145 for the Holiday Inn Express.
Bangor, Maine
Bangor, Maine is one of the original New England towns incorporated back in 1791. Did you know there are multiple Bangor communities worldwide — many of which are named after Bangor, Maine. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the wealth of activities in the parks and forests. There are ample opportunities for canoeing, sailing, hiking, fishing, and during the winter months, enjoy skiing and snowmobiling as well.
The city was once the “Lumber Capital of the World,” and today you’ll find a 31-foot statue of lumberjack Paul Bunyan. Novelist Stephen King even lives in the neighborhood, famous for its Federal-style mansions constructed during the lumber boom.
New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven is one of the country’s most noted university towns, home to one of the most famous Ivy League schools — Yale University. There is plenty to see and do outside of touring Yale or visiting family attending college in the area. Get some exercise checking out the 70 shops at the Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, or go for a hike in the Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden. And be sure to visit Wooster Street to judge for yourself whether Frank Pepe’s or Sally’s makes the best pizza around!
Surprisingly, there are not a ton of luxury hotels in the area, but that doesn’t mean rates are necessarily cheap. You might luck out and score a night at the Days Inn-New Haven for under $100 or stay at the luxurious Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale for around $160 a night.
Jersey City, New Jersey
Just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, New York, Jersey City is the gateway to all of your favorite NYC attractions, at a reduced price. You’ll want to look at the waterfront for the best access to attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Liberty State Park, and more. Don’t assume that cheaper is always the most affordable, with some properties still around $300 a night — a bargain compared to Manhattan. Weekends are often cheaper as many hotels cater to business travelers, and always book early as properties can still sell out quickly.