The 10 Most Visited National Parks in New England:
- Cape Cod National Seashore
- Acadia National Park
- Boston National Historical Park
- Minute Man National Historical Park
- Lowell National Historical Park
- Boston African American National Historical Site
- Salem Maritime National Historic Site
- Adams National Historical Park
- New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
- Roger Williams National Memorial
New England’s 23 National Parks operated by the National Park Service draw millions of travelers to the region each year. Consequently, the following are the perennial favorites, attracting the largest numbers of visitors. Here’s a detailed overview of the top 10 national parks in New England based on attendance figures reported by the National Park Service.
1. Cape Cod National Seashore: Wellfleet, Massachusetts
Address: Massachusetts, USA
Phone: +1 508-255-3421
Website: Visit website
New England travelers love the beach! The total number of visitors to the Cape Cod National Seashore is nearly double that of the next most visited National Park in the region. This park features 44,600 acres of stunning shoreline, numerous historic structures, and six beaches ideal for swimming, along with 11 self-guiding nature trails available for hiking and exploration.
2. Acadia National Park: Bar Harbor, Maine
Address: Maine, USA
Phone: +1 207-288-3338
Website: Visit website
Moreover, Acadia was the first National Park established east of the Mississippi River. Each year, millions flock to this picturesque park known for its mesmerizing ocean views, mountains, forests, and serene lakes. Notable activities include scenic drives, hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports.
3. Boston National Historical Park: Boston, Massachusetts
Address: Building 5, Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA 02109, USA
Phone: +1 617-242-5601
Website: Visit website
Boston National Historical Park is a collection of historic sites connected by the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking tour highlighting 16 historically significant locations. Visiting these sites offers a profound insight into the American quest for freedom.
4. Minute Man National Historical Park: Concord, Massachusetts
Address: Lincoln, MA 01773, USA
Phone: +1 978-369-6993
Website: Visit website
Since 1959, this park has allowed visitors to explore the battlefields pivotal to the American Revolution. Encompassing more than 900 acres, the park preserves the historic landscape of the April 19, 1775 battles.
5. Lowell National Historical Park: Lowell, Massachusetts
Address: 246 Market St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA
Phone: +1 978-970-5000
Website: Visit website
This park showcases the impact of the Industrial Revolution with guided tours of textile mills and worker housing across 141 acres of historic landscape, enhancing the understanding of this transformative period.
6. Boston African American National Historical Site: Boston, Massachusetts
Address: 46 Joy St, Boston, MA 02114-4005, USA
Phone: +1 617-725-0022
Website: Visit website
This National Historic Landmark comprises 14 pre-Civil War structures celebrating Boston’s African American heritage. A 1.6-mile Black Heritage Trail connects these significant sites, making it a meaningful visit for history enthusiasts.
7. Salem Maritime National Historic Site: Salem, Massachusetts
Address: 160 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, USA
Website: Visit website
This nine-acre park showcases New England’s seafaring history, featuring 12 historic structures along Salem’s waterfront, creating a fascinating exploration of maritime heritage.
8. Adams National Historical Park: Quincy, Massachusetts
Address: 135 Adams St, Quincy, MA 02169, USA
Phone: +1 617-773-1177
Website: Visit website
This park invites you to explore the lives of five generations of the Adams Family, including two Presidents. Trolley tours connect historic structures, creating an engaging historical experience.
9. New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park: New Bedford, Massachusetts
Address: 33 William St, New Bedford, MA 02740-6222, USA
Phone: +1 508-996-4095
Website: Visit website
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park vividly illustrates the historical significance of a 19th-century whaling port. This park, created in 1996, features a Visitor Center and various partner attractions, drawing over 150,000 visitors annually.
10. Roger Williams National Memorial: Providence, Rhode Island
Address: 282 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Phone: +1 401-521-7266
Website: Visit website
Visitors can explore rich history at the Roger Williams National Memorial, commemorating the crusader for religious freedom. With exhibits and tours available, this site is a must-see for anyone interested in early American history.