Ten Essential New England Travel Guide Books

New England is an area of rich history and tradition. There is so much to do and see that you will want a guide book so that you may read a little about it before you arrive. When it comes to New England travel guides, we have put together a pretty comprehensive collection of guide books and provided some recommendations. The New England travel guide books listed here will inspire you and provide practical advice as you plan you trip to this historic four season vacation destination.

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1. New England (Regional Guide)
   • Explore the Boston of herons, hawks, muskrats and crabs by camping at Boston Harbor Islands
   • Follow the journey your garbage takes at the Trash Museum
   • Quaff hoppy pale ales and heady stouts in Vermont's microbreweries
   • Tackle America's premiere hiking route, the Appalachian Trail
2. Lonely Planet Road Trip New England (Road Trip Guide)
   

   Enjoy the scenery! Whether you want to explore rugged coastline, rolling farmland, majestic mountains or miles of sand dunes, New England offers loads of options for a quick getaway. This handy guide follows seven popular drives, including Massachusetts' pristine Cape Cod seashore and graceful Berkshire Mountains, Vermont's pastoral Route 100, Maine's dramatic Route 1 and New Hampshire's leafy Kancamagus Highway.

3. Backroads of New England: Your Guide To New England's Most Scenic Backroad Adventures (Pictorial Discovery Guide)

   From the sandy shores of Cape Cod to the distinct ridges of Vermont's Mount Mansfield; from Connecticut's Quiet Corner to the Kancamagus Highway through the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire; "Backroads of New England"--written and photographed by local experts--takes you on routes that lead to the area's most secluded and overlooked natural areas and sites that capture New England's colorful history. Whether you're planning a day trip, looking for unusual destinations, or simply want to learn more about the locale, "Backroads of New England" will lead you deep into the soul of New England--beyond the bustling cities and common tourist attractions.

4. Boston (City Guide)
   

   Cradle of democracy, Boston continues to drive progressive American culture, with a thriving arts scene and some of the country's top universities. Stroll through history in this eminently walkable city, enjoying lively neighborhoods, emerald parks and waterfront views. Our local authors reveal the best of Boston, from precolonial artifacts to 21st-century wonders.

5. Frommer's Boston 2008 (Frommer's Complete)
   • Insider tips from a longtime Boston resident to help you make the most of your visit.
   • Outspoken opinions on what's worth your time and what's not.
   • Exact prices, so you can plan the perfect trip whatever your budget.
   • Off-the-beaten-path experiences and undiscovered gems, plus new takes on top attractions.
6. Boston (Eyewitness Travel Guides)
   • Walk the famous Freedom Trail
   • Visit the many art galleries and museums
   • Learn all about the best shopping
   • Dine at the finest restaurants
7. Phantom Gourmet Guide to Boston's Best Restaurants 2008
   

   The Phantom only features the most worthwhile restaurants, helping you immediately pinpoint the perfect place to eat. There are lists devoted to areas from the North End to the North Shore, and the nearly 500 reviews are catalogued in alphabetical and geographical order, and by cuisine. For 2008, the Phantom will reveal his "88 Tasty Tips" for getting the best deals, service, and food in town.

8. Zagat Boston Restaurants 2008/09
   

   Of course, setting the standard in guide books.

9. AMC's Best Day Hikes Near Boston: Four-Season Guide to 50 of the Best Trails in Eastern Massachusetts (Amc Nature Walks Series)
   

   Discover fifty pockets of wilderness bursting with flora and fauna on scenic trails within an hour of Boston. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and hiking enthusiasts, AMC's Best Day Hikes Near Boston leads explorers to the area's most intersting woodlands, reservations, and nature preserves from the North Shore to Concord and the Lincoln Woods, from the Middlesex Fells to the Blue Hills Reservation, and south to the Cape. This handy guide includes directions, trail maps, photos, and Nature Notes that highlight the natural history of the area, including rare bird species and ancient trees. Each trip description includes a summary of the trip time, distance, and difficulty, plus an icon indicating whether the trail is also good for snowshoeing or cross-country. The guide features appendices covering winter recreation, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as local rock climbing and other opportunities for outdoor adventure in the region, making this guide an essential four-season reference for locals and visitors alike.

10. AMC's Best Day Hikes in the White Mountains: Four-Season Guide to 50 of the Best Trails in the White Mountain National Forest (Amc's Best Day Hikes)
    

    Discover waterfalls, secluded mountain ponds, and the best scenic vistas with this guide to day hikes in the spectacular White Mountains. Ideal for families and hikers of all ages and abilities, this new guide from the experts at the Appalachian Mountain Club leads explorers to fifty of the region's most spectacular trails, from short family nature walks to long day hikes that reward with magnificent views. Each trip description includes a detailed map and a summary of the trip time, distance, and difficulty, plus an icon indicating whether the trail is also good for snowshoeing or cross-country. The guide includes an appendix packed with other opportunities for outdoor adventure in the region, making this guide an essential four-season reference for locals and visitors alike.