Our Favorite New England Breweries We Have Stopped at… so far
The best breweries we have visited so far in New England
Tuckerman Brewing Company
Our original brewery. Well, at least in terms of drinking their beer. I’ve been a fan of Tuckerman beer since my college days—way back when dinosaurs roamed the Earth (or at least before cellphones where a thing). They didn’t always have a restaurant, and I’m not exactly sure when they opened their tasting room, but it’s been a few years now.
Located in Conway, NH, Tuckerman has an awesome vibe. They serve a variety of pizzas and, of course, beer. A sampler is always a fun way to go if you like to mix things up. The main indoor space is wide open, featuring beautiful images of Mt. Washington, which is fitting since you might need a beer (or two) after hiking it. They also have a large lawn area, food trucks, and live music on occasion. If you’re in the area, check them out—I know I always do!
Tuckerman Brewing Company - Conway, NH
Zero Gravity
Located in Burlington, VT, Zero Gravity will forever be on my “must-do” list when we’re back in the area. Their Beer Hall has a cool, cozy vibe, with comfy couches mixed in among the tables and a rich, dark-wood interior. It’s a great spot for the whole family—because yes, even kids appreciate a comfy seat while their parents sip craft beer.
The food here? Absolutely amazing. And for non-beer drinkers like Mike, they even brew their own non-alcoholic beer called Rescue Club—As they state on their website: “The people make the party, not the alcohol”. The menu features unique options like kale salads and rice bowls alongside classic burgers. A win-win!
Stoneface Brewing Co.
This one is a local favorite for us. Their menu constantly evolves, but they keep some delicious staples that never disappoint. Every time we eat here, we leave full and happy, which is really the only acceptable way to leave a brewery.
It’s a great place to meet up with friends, grab a quick bite on your way north, or just sit and enjoy a solid meal with a great beer. Trust me—the food and beer here are worth the stop.
*No pictures! I guess when you go often & you love it so much you don’t take as many pictures! Will update next time we visit though. Just trust us the food and vibes are immaculate.
Whalers Brewing Company
This one was new to us. On a recent trip to Rhode Island, we decided to check out Whalers, but there was one thing we didn’t realize—they serve beer. And only beer. Yep, that’s it.
We went in a bit naïve (okay, maybe just me) because I assumed every brewery would have at least something non-alcoholic. You know, a rogue can of soda hiding in the back. Not here! But what we did learn is that you’re welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks. They even have menus for local takeout spots, or you can bring your own food while you sip their beer.
The space itself is great—various seating options, a couple of pool tables, and cornhole. It’s the perfect spot to hang out with friends, even if you need to BYO-Soda. They are also dog friendly! So you can bring your fur babies here as long as they remain on their leash, so cool!
Maine Beer Company
Maine Beer Co. makes one of my all-time favorite beers—Lunch. (Yes, that’s the name, and yes, it’s absolutely delicious.) I also love Dinner. And yes they do have a Breakfast beer, I haven’t tried it, yet! But I am sure it is amazing!
While driving through Freeport, I discovered they have a tasting room and serve pizza. And let me tell you, the pizza is fantastic. The setup: a host seats you, but you order your beer and food at the bar. The restaurant is bright, open, and airy, with a great view into the brewing area. If you’re anywhere near Freeport, this is a stop worth making!
Schilling Beer Co.
Located in Littleton, NH, Schilling is an absolute gem. The brewery is housed in a rustic old home, perched right on a river next to a covered bridge. It’s basically the most picturesque brewery setting imaginable.
The ambiance is cozy—with exposed beams, rustic wood charm, and that warm, welcoming feeling that makes you want to stay a while. And while their beer is great, let’s talk about the food. The pretzel appetizer? I know you can’t see me, but I’m actually drooling just thinking about it. Their pizza ranks among my all-time favorites.
We love stopping here after a hike or a ski trip up north. And if you’re in Littleton, the whole town is worth a visit—quaint bakeries, fun shops, and of course, Schilling itself.
We have not been to all the breweries this list is our personal favorite places we highly recommend them all! As we discover new spots we will keep updating this list.
Best Family Hikes
Taking a family trip to New England and want to get out and hike? Check out the best hikes for each age group for your family.
Want to get the entire family into hiking? Not sure where to begin or who to trust with your hike plans? Look no further—we've got you covered!
White Mountains NH
Mt. Agamenticus in York, Maine
Perfect for all ages! If you have preschoolers or beginners, this is the best little mountain to start with. There are multiple trails, some longer and some shorter. The Ring Trail, when followed clockwise from the parking lot, features a seasonal story maintained by the Friends of Mt. A. The Ring Trail circles the mountain without reaching the summit, but several trails branching off lead to the top.
I personally love the Ring Trail not only for the story but also for the views and the old ski lift from when Mt. A had skiing. The trail is just under 2 miles, and the mountain's total elevation is 692 feet. The views from the top are beautiful—you can see the ocean and, on a clear day, well into the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Dogs on a leash are welcome, so bring the entire family! Plus, if you hit this one early in the day, you can finish with a bagel and iced chai from the Bagel Basket.
Mt A
Mt. Major in Alton, NH
We love this mountain and have so many fond memories of hiking it as a family with friends. Located not far from Gunstock, it was a perfect step up from Mt. A and still close to home, or at least our home.
There are a few trails here. The Boulder Loop Trail (marked with blue blazes) offers a more direct route to the summit. Alternatively, you can take the Mount Major Trail, which involves a good amount of rock climbing, or opt for the Brook Trail, which is a little longer but less steep. The overall elevation here is about 1,800 feet, and depending on the trail, your round-trip mileage will be approximately 3.1 miles with an elevation gain of over 1,100 feet.
This mountain is perfect for the entire family, including dogs on leashes! Elementary-age kids are the sweet spot here—it’s a great confidence-building hike.
Mt. Kearsarge in Warner, NH
The trailhead is located in Winslow State Park. This mountain is a bit more challenging than Mt. Major. The round-trip hike is about 3 miles but involves a steeper ascent.
We hiked the Winslow Trail up and the Barlow Trail down. The elevation gain is about 1,100 feet, and the mountain's overall elevation is just over 3,000 feet. The 360-degree views of the White Mountains and into Vermont are incredible.
The ascent is steep but just challenging enough for kids and dogs (on leash). At the summit, there is a fire tower (usually closed to the public) and a picnic table area. Keep in mind that there is a fee to enter the park. Perfect for older elementary kids and older.
Mt. Willard in Crawford Notch, NH
The Mount Willard Trail starts at Saco Lake by the old train station. This trail is about 3.1 miles round-trip with approximately 900 feet of elevation gain.
There are a few water crossings and some rocky terrain, but the trail is well-marked. The summit, at about 2,900 feet above sea level, offers a stunning, jaw-dropping view of the Crawford Notch area, including the beautiful Willey Mountain Range. If you time your hike right, you can even catch a glimpse of the scenic railroad train passing through the notch.
Fall can be very busy, but the views are stunning year-round. We prefer to avoid peak season to enjoy the trail without the crowds. We love this hike for a step up from Mt A elementary age kids and older. There are no rock climbing or scrambling. We appreciate the lack of any technical aspects of this hike. Perfect for beginners or experts alike!
Basin Cascade Trail in Lincoln, NH
This trail is accessible from the Franconia Notch Bike Path and is perfect for even the littlest hikers. You can push an off-road stroller for much of the trail after the pavement ends.
The trail follows a series of waterfalls and smoothed rocks, creating a beautiful and unique hike. There are deep pools where people wade and cool off. You can hike as far as you like, but the full out-and-back trail is about 2.6 miles. The trail increases in steepness as you go, with the lower sections being the busiest. Because that is where the view is.
There is a fee for parking, and it is strictly enforced due to the trail's popularity.
Diana’s Baths in Bartlett, NH
A must-do activity if you're visiting the North Conway area! This easy hike is part of the U.S. National Forest System, so there is a self-pay kiosk for parking, and the lot can get busy on popular weekends.
This hike is perfect for little ones and grandparents alike. It’s a short walk to the viewpoint area. While there are some rocks to climb if you want to get closer to the water, climbing is not necessary to enjoy the view.
If you like this list or want more suggestions check out our podcast for more details about all of these hikes and other outdoor adventures Around New England.
Thanks Mike & G.
How We Plan Our Hikes
How to plan a successful day hiking in New England
If you're planning a trip to New England and want to explore the beautiful outdoors we call home, we're here to help! We don't do anything too fancy when planning our hikes, but a little preparation goes a long way toward having a safe and successful day. Plus, at our age, it's all about staying safe and finding the best food afterward!
Mt Pemigewasset
Step 1: Decide the Day's Plan
First things first—how much time do we have? Are there any commitments that mean we need to be home by a certain time? If not, we're free to follow where the trails (and the weather) lead us—with the promise of delicious food at the end.
I keep a running list of hikes: some challenging, some moderate, and some easy. My go-to sources for finding new trails have always been books. One of my favorites is Foghorn Outdoors: New England Hiking - The Complete Guide to More Than 380 Hikes by Michael Lanza. This book is over 20 years old, so I double-check things like road closures, but the detailed descriptions and honest ratings make it a gem. Each hike is rated on a scale of 1-10 for views and difficulty—because let's be honest, isn't that why we hike?
Another book I recently picked up is New Hampshire's 52 With a View: A Hiker's Guide. by Ken MacGray It focuses solely on New Hampshire mountains under 4,000 feet. Some trails are still challenging, but all offer incredible views without the grueling climb—a definite win-win.
Mt Osceola
Step 2: Plan the Post-Hike Meal
Food is a key part of our hiking adventures. We always research dining options before we leave because cell service at the trailhead can be spotty. Where we go depends on what time we finish the hike. If we wrap up early, we're on the hunt for a cozy local coffee shop. If it's closer to lunch or dinner, we love finding a local restaurant for a well-earned meal and a refreshing drink.
Bonus Step: Use the AllTrails App
In addition to books, we rely on the AllTrails app for planning. I love checking recent trail reviews and photos to know what to expect. It's a lifesaver when it comes to gear decisions—because nothing ruins a hike faster than being unprepared. Huge thanks to all the hikers who share their trail updates!
Tuckerman Ravine trail
The Night Before: Prep is Everything
A little prep the night before makes for a smoother morning. We pack our gear, lay out our clothes, and make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in advance. That way, in the morning, Mike can toast my bagel (he's the morning person, not me) while I get ready. There's something so peaceful about hitting the trail early, so this routine helps us get out the door without a hitch.
If the weather looks iffy, we throw rain gear in the car—better to have it and not need it than the other way around. We also wear comfy shoes to the trailhead and pack our hiking boots to change into when we arrive. In the summer, we even keep an extra set of clothes in the car just in case we get too sweaty and want to freshen up before heading to eat.
Middle & North Sugarloaf
Want more tips and stories? Tune in to our podcast, Around New England, where we share all the details about our hikes and adventures. Let us know what you'd like to hear next—and happy hiking!
Mt Chocorua
A long weekend in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor June 2024
We visited Bar Harbor, Maine for the first time in June of 2024. It was a wonderful long weekend trip that was packed with hiking, exploring, eating, and shopping.
We decided to stop at the Boothbay Bay Botanical gardens in Boothbay, ME on our drive up north. The gardens are absolutely stunning and the trolls are so fun to walk around and check out.
You could really spend a lot of time walking around here checking out the different gardens. They had a play area for kids to get some energy out as well as a butterfly house. I loved visiting here and think it is definitely worth the stop either on your way up north or make it its own adventure, Boothbay is a beautiful area of Maine!
We arrived in Bar Harbor in the afternoon, the timing was perfect for a trip to Bar Island. This island and little hike is only accessible 1.5 hours before and after low tide. If you plan to visit here pay attention to the tide! You could be stuck out here for hours if you are not watching the tide chart. The island/town gets its name from the long sand bar only accessible around low tide. Once you have made it to the island you can enjoy a short hike around for great views of the town of Bar Harbor.
After a long car ride and stretching our legs around Bar Island, it was time to check into our Airbnb. We found a cute condo to rent for the few days in Southwest Harbor, about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor. This was a great spot to stay a littler farther away from town, but so peaceful and worth the drive. We brought our own breakfast and lots of snacks and enjoyed the full kitchen and coffee on the deck each morning.
At this point of the day it was rainy and humid we wanted to grab some dinner, but not drive back to Bar Harbor. We found a fun spot close by called The Upper Deck. On nice days you can sit out on their deck and enjoy the views which are only what I can describe as idilic Maine coastal views. It seemed to be a place locals or seasonal folks come often, we loved the vibe inside but thought the food was not the best of the weekend. We would definitely go back, but maybe order something different next time.
Hiking Day!
Our first full day on Mt Dessert Island we got to spend it hiking. We decided to check out Jordon Pond and South Bubbles. To hike just Jordon Pond we found a parking spot (luckily). We followed signs to Jordon Pond, which was a different parking spot than the Jordon Pond House. With water and snacks packed up we hit the trail. We walked counter clockwise around the pond until we got to the South Bubbles trail. We did not get to hike both peaks as Bubbles divide was closed for repairs. The hike along Jordon Pond is gorgeous and perfect for people of all abilities. Once we got to the Bubbles Trail, which is not perfect for all abilities. Most of this was like your typical mountain hike, but as we get closer to the peak of South Bubble it got steep like really really steep. At once point they had what I called an OMG bar where you are pulling yourself up. If you can make it past the scary rock climbing the views from the top are totally worth it. 10/10 recommend, I hope when we do this again the bubble divide is open so we can complete the hike. Becuase part of the trail was closed we went back down the way we came up and finished walking around Jordon Pond. Enjoyed a picnic lunch and decided to head back to the Airbnb for showers and some rest before we go into Bar Harbor for dinner and shopping.
After the hike, shower & some rest we were ready to head to Bar Harbor. This town is a fun spot to wonder around checking out the local shops & restaurants. We enjoyed a drink at Paddy’s Bar which had a great vibe, excellent service and nice views. Dinner tonight was at Geddy’s, which was fantastic from the food to the service to the vibes, this is a must go to spot when in Bar Harbor. If you have any good recommendations please let me know for my next trip up here.
Explore Acadia National Park day!
Today was a little cooler, still humid but also rainy. We decided to get in the car and see as much as we could today. We started at Bass Harbor lighthouse. We walked around the actual lighthouse and then drove a little but to hike and get the iconic picture of the lighthouse.
It was cloudy and drizzling a drive around Park Loop road was a great way to see a lot and stay dry. It is a beautiful road around a big part of Acadia National Park. We stopped at Sand Beach & Thunder Hole. Both spots are beautiful even though Thunder Hole had no thunder, the ocean was very calm. It is recommended to visit Thunder Hole 1-2 hours before high tide, which is when we were there, But I have a feeling, correct me if I am wrong, but if the ocean is calm the thunder does not show, like for us this day.
Travel day
Check out day is never fun & the rain was coming in so we decided to hit the road a little earlier so we could get ahead of the weather. It was a fairly easy drive other than the few downpour moments. We of course had to stop in Freeport at LLBean. Is any trip to Maine complete without stopping at the flagship store? In my opinion no. We love shopping here and poking around Freeport. Maine has so much to offer and some absolutely beautiful vacation spots. Guess that is why they’re called the Vacationland. We love the coast but also have been to Baxter and Moosehead. Do you have a favorite spot? Or a spot you want to check out? We can’t wait to go back to Acadia and hike and explore more!
