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New Hampshire's Lakes Region is the freshwater playground of the northeast, and Lake Winnipesaukee (we locals simply call it "the Big Lake") is its best-known and largest body of water.

There are few towns as charming as Mystic, a seaside village about two hours southwest of Boston, and one of the most attractive small towns in Connecticut.

A two-hour drive from Boston, Newport is like no other town in America. Long Bellevue Avenue and surrounding streets are lined with mansions that were the summer palaces of New York's ruling families at the turn of the 20th century. Fully restored, these dazzle with gilded and painted salons and ballrooms, and sumptuous living areas.

There are few views as beautiful as those from atop the Berkshire Hills. This gorgeous region, one of the most popular getaways from Boston and New York, spans western Massachusetts and parts of Connecticut. It's packed with some of Mother Nature's best creations, a natural wonderland begging to be explored and photographed.

Located just off the coast of mainland Rhode Island and Long Island, New York, this nine-square-mile isle is only accessed by ferry from the mainland. Getting here from Boston is easy. Take the hour-and-a-half drive to Kingston and then hop on the Block Island ferry, which takes approximately 15 minutes from port to port.

Old Orchard Beach is all about fun in the sun, with a rosy tint of nostalgia. Seven miles of beautifully maintained sand is backed by low dunes, and every bit of it is publicly accessed. You can walk to the beach from dozens of low-key family-friendly lodgings.

Thirty-six miles out to sea, this island off Cape Cod is committed to preserving its past, while keeping its amenities and tourist facilities fresh and up-to-date. Rose-covered cottages, cobblestone streets, and white picket fences are the norm. Many of the roads are unpaved, and a good portion of the island is devoted to conservation land.

Martha's Vineyard is the perfect getaway to leave the hustle and bustle of Beantown behind. This island has long been a prized vacation spot for Boston's elite and others just wanting to get away, recharge, or enjoy a romantic couples retreat.

The iconic Pilgrim Monument is a landmark you can spot from pretty much everywhere in town, reminding visitors that Cape Cod was the first landing place of the Pilgrims in 1620. A climb to the top rewards visitors with remarkable vistas.

Portland has undergone a renaissance of late, becoming a hot spot for travelers looking for a refreshing weekend getaway from Boston. New restaurants are always opening, and their chefs are winning awards. With that in mind, it's a particularly popular spot for those looking for a foodie destination.