5 Mud Season Activities to do in New England, That Won’t Get You Stuck in The Mud.
1. The View from the Top of the Prudential Center
Boston is packed with incredible things to do, from exploring unique art museums to touring the historic Fenway Park to indulging in the city’s amazing food scene. You might end up broke, but you’ll never be bored! Even on the muddiest of mud season days, there’s plenty of fun to be had indoors.
One of the best new experiences we tried this year was The View at the top of the Prudential Center. Tickets are $25 per person, and while you do book a time slot, there's no rush once you're up there—you can take your time enjoying the views from each level.
The experience starts at the highest point of the Prudential Center, offering a stunning 360º indoor view of the city. Head down one level (my personal favorite), and you’ll step outside for the same breathtaking views—but with the added thrill of feeling the wind at this height. Looking down at Fenway Park or Logan Airport from here just hits differently!
On the next level down, the experience continues with a detailed model of Boston, complete with projections of the city through different seasons, as well as huge interactive screens that help you learn more about Boston’s rich history.
2. Mud season also means maple season, and that means it's time for Baird Farm's Maple Open House Weekend!
This event is happening on March 22 and 23, and I can't wait to check it out. If you can’t make it, be sure to visit their website for future events—you can even schedule a tour of the maple farm, which is available year-round. Maple syrup (and I mean the real deal) is a huge part of New England culture. In fact, Vermont produces the most maple syrup in the United States. While lobster rolls may get a lot of attention, maple syrup production is just as much a New England staple. The process is weather-dependent and typically begins in mid-February, depending on the location. It is a fairly short season only lasting 4-6 weeks! Have to catch it while you can! Maybe we will see you at the event!
3. Wicked Tulips in Exeter & Johnston, RI, or Preston, CT (Opening Early April)
This is another weather-dependent activity, but hey, that’s just part of life in New England! Visiting Wicked Tulips is such a fun springtime tradition—who doesn’t love fresh tulips? Tickets are $25 per adult on weekends and $20 per adult on weekdays, and each ticket includes 10 tulips. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your house for spring!
If you’re in Rhode Island and looking for more things to do, be sure to check out our Rhode Island highlight podcast, which is packed with recommendations for exploring the Ocean State any time of year!
4. Odiorne Point & Seacoast Science Center
This place holds a special spot in my heart. I love visiting year-round, but spring is especially nice—cool, quieter than summer, and absolutely gorgeous. Odiorne has plenty of trails to explore, though with mud season in full swing, I wouldn’t recommend all of them on an extra-muddy day. Instead, take a stroll along the ocean, soak in the views, and then head inside the Seacoast Science Center.
For $15 per person (ages 12+), or $10 for kids ages 3-11, this small but impressive aquarium is a must-visit for any ocean lover. The touch tank is stunning, and the exhibits, featuring local sea creatures, are always changing. You’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for the Gulf of Maine.
After soaking in all that ocean magic, take a short drive into Portsmouth for some retail therapy and delicious food. My must-stop shops? Off Piste, Evie, Divergions, Nahcotta, Cottillion Bureau , Attrezie. And once I’ve worked up an appetite, I’m heading straight to one of my go-to spots: BRGR Bar, The Blue Mermaid, Anju Noodle Bar, Street, Popovers on the Square, Elephantine, or The Kitchen.
Honestly, I could (and maybe I have) spent hours wandering downtown Portsmouth with a coffee in hand, browsing the fantastic shops—definitely a fun way to embrace mud season!
5. Portland Art Museum & Portland Head Lighthouse
On a beautiful, muddy day, both of these activities offer a great way to get out of the house—enjoy some art and soak up those ocean vibes. The Portland Head Lighthouse is located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Being on the Maine coast, the lighthouse offers not only stunning ocean views but also cool spots to explore as you walk around the park. You can check out Battery Blair, the remains of Goddard Mansion, or Battery Keyes. As you stroll from point to point, you’ll have the chance to snap photos of the iconic lighthouse from every angle.
After spending time outdoors, head into Portland to visit the Art Museum. Admission is free for those under 21 (thanks to a generous donation from Susie Konkel) or $20 for adults. Once you’ve admired all the beautiful art, grab a coffee about half a mile away at Bard Coffee, or enjoy a meal at one of Portland’s amazing restaurants. We loved Black Cow Burger and Fries!