Though the Omicron Variant sounds like some futuristic disease out of a science-fiction universe, it is a very real and very contagious virus that is renewing restrictions during the COVID pandemic. Because Omicron is more transmissible than other variants — even to those who are fully vaccinated — many people are opting to continue delaying their international travel plans and hunker down for another few months out of an abundance of caution.
Still, you can’t expect to avoid leaving your house for another year and remain fully sane. You should plan at least one low-risk trip to stretch your legs and see some sights — which might include a road trip around New England like this:
Boston
The biggest New England city, Boston is an excellent jumping-off point. The City on a Hill boasts some of the most important historical sites in the nation, to include the Freedom Trail, which is an easy walking path that remains open during COVID, and Beacon Hill, a neighborhood which contains some of the oldest homes in the U.S. If you have already seen these attractions dozens of times, you might consider taking advantage of Massachusetts marijuana laws and getting high before journeying around these historic spots. You might gain a new perspective on American history from the experience. If history (and weed) aren’t your thing, you might also explore Newbury Street, Faneuil Hall, the Boston Harborwalk and the Charles River Esplanade, all of which allow for social distancing and COVID safety.
Days in Boston: 1-2
Salem, Rockport, Gloucester
As you drive north into the heart of New England, you get the opportunity to stop for a few hours here or there at some of the most exciting coastal cities in Massachusetts. Everyone knows about the witch trials at Salem, and now is your chance to see the place where they happened. You can also spend a while in Gloucester, which is reputed as the best beach destination in the state, and Rockport, which is one of the most New England-y towns in New England. In each spot, you can stretch your legs while wandering the boutiques and harbors, and you should definitely pick up a delicious seafood treat.
Days driving through Salem, Rockport and Gloucester: 1
Coastal Byway
New Hampshire’s Coastal Byway is just 18.5 miles of coastline between Massachusetts and Maine — but it could be the most stunning 18.5 miles you ever drive. Sandwiched between stunning beaches and state parks and dotted with historic forts and looming mansions, the Coastal Byway offers plenty to see and do. If you want to stretch out your time on the byway, you can walk around Hampton Beach, a resort town with a cute boardwalk, or spend time in the Strawbery Banke Museum, which boasts 37 buildings built between 1600 and 1900.
Days driving the Coastal Byway: 1
York, Ogunquit, Kennebunkport
Maine is known as “vacationland” for a reason: In the summer, the state is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, with incredible natural scenery, perfect weather, friendly locals and delectable cuisine. While you probably don’t want to visit during the off-season, a road trip through Maine’s southern coastal towns, like York, Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, will show you why the unofficial motto of the state is “the way life should be.” All three of these towns have something interesting to see or do, like York’s lighthouses, Ogunquit’s beaches and coastal trails and Kennebunkport’s trolleys. You don’t have to see all three, but you should take the time to enjoy at least one of these charming places.
Days driving through York, Ogunquit, Kennebunkport: 1
Portland
Just two hours from Boston, the capital of Maine is like a different world. As eclectic as Portland, Oregon but with its own feel and flavor, Portland, Maine mixes old, cobbled streets with hip craft breweries and iconic lighthouses. Most first-time visitors should spend time exploring the Arts District, which combines a number of museums, theatres, galleries and colleges into a walkable area full of life and fun. While you might want to skip Commercial Street during COVID times, you can still experience the perfection of Maine’s culinary scene with a self-guided lobster crawl. Like Boston, Portland has legalized cannabis, so you can stop at a Maine dispensary to compare and contrast the New England bud.
Days in Portland: 1-2
From Portland, there are so many places you can go — north to see the wildest corners of New England, west through the heart of New Hampshire and Vermont, or back south to Boston and home. Consider this road trip itinerary your call to craft your own, distinctive COVID trip through New England.