New England FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting New England.

When is the best time to visit New England?

New England is a year-round destination but the best time to visit New England is May to October when the weather is warmest and sunniest. This is also whale-watching season. Summer (June-August) has average temperatures of 20-26°C, while autumn (September-October) is the best time to explore the countryside for the spectacular Fall colours, especially in October. Spring (April-May) ranges from cold to mild with temperatures from 4°C to 15°C and frequent showers. Winter (November-March) has temperatures from 7°C down to -10°C with snow most common December-February, especially in mountainous regions.

What is the official language of New England?

English is the official language spoken in New England.

How do I manage my travel money in New England?

The official currency of the USA is the United States dollar (USD). Cash, credit, and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash machines are easy to access.

What places combine well with New England?

New England is easily combined with New York State to the west and New York City and the rest of the east coast to the south. New England can also be combined with Canadian provinces such as Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia to the north.

What are the main cultural events in New England?

New England has a busy calendar of cultural and culinary events throughout the year, but especially in summer and autumn. Boston hosts one of the biggest St Patrick’s Day celebrations in March, Harborfest and Chowderfest around Independent Day in July, and the huge Head of Charles Regatta in October.

Salem is famous for one of the world’s biggest Halloween celebrations throughout October. Cape Cod & the Islands host a range of food and drink festivals including a beer festival in Falmouth in September, and gourmet festivals in Nantucket in May and Martha’s Vineyard in October. Newport Rhode Island hosts iconic jazz and folk festivals in summer, and a huge boat show in September.

New Hampshire hosts a state-wide Festival of Trees in November and December, while Maine hosts a wide range of culinary events such as Portland’s Harvest on the Harbor in October and Rockport’s Maine Lobster Festival in August.