Unpacking the Northeast: Group Adventures, Destinations, and Explorations
The Northeast region of the U.S. is packed with historic landmarks, notable destinations, scenic beauty, and much more. From hallowed battlegrounds and world-class ballet to geographically diverse shorelines and major sporting events, groups have plenty to experience. And, with 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—sparking celebrations and special programming all around the region—there truly hasn’t been a better time to visit.
Come along as we explore a tasting of what awaits.
Endless opportunities for fun are found in New York. Groups interested in the performing arts won’t want to miss out on the “Puccini Trio” of spectacular classics presented this spring at The Metropolitan Opera: Boheme, Butterfly, and Turandot. The iconic institution (first founded in 1883) is also presenting a new opera, El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego, a magical-realist portrait of Mexico’s painterly power couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Continue the onstage magic at the New York City Ballet, where groups can view productions of Christopher Wheeldon’s Continuum, the popular 19th-century ballet Coppélia, and more.
Photo courtesy of Karen Almond, Met Opera
Take things to new heights at Top of the Rock Observatory, with its new SKYLIFT and Beam experiences. Groups could even enjoy lunch with a view of the NYC skyline out on the deck! And don’t forget RiseNY—part exhilarating ride, part immersive museum. Niagara Falls and The Metropolitan Museum of Art also offer experiences groups can’t find anywhere else.
Photo courtesy of Top of the Rock
Whether savoring the fresh seafood and beautiful landscapes found on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, taking part in some seasonal whale watching, or cheering at a once-in-a-lifetime sports event, Massachusetts delivers. Boston’s Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail connecting 16 nationally significant historic sites, is a must. History comes alive through this collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks—and even a ship. A somewhat hidden gem also in Boston is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, home to several significant pieces of art. It’s also the site of an unsolved heist in 1990 which saw 13 still-unrecovered works stolen from the museum by two men dressed in police uniforms. Visitors can still see the empty frames from which the works were cut.
Photo courtesy of Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Football-loving groups won’t want to miss out on seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, taking place this summer at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Those with an affinity for the spooky side of things can opt for a tour of Salem from Salem Historical Tours. And, if that’s not enough, the 19 MetroWest Boston municipalities also offer an abundance of group-friendly outing ideas.
In Pennsylvania, groups will find a number of top group destinations including Gettysburg, home to rich Civil War history. It’s here that groups can step back in time with an unforgettable tour on the Gettysburg Railway through the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside, along with a number of area museums, notable sites, and historical centers.
Photo courtesy of Destination Gettysburg
Beyond the battlefield of Gettysburg, groups could venture to Philadelphia, the birthplace of the U.S. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell shine, while Reading Terminal Market offers a sampling of local flavors. One Philly must-see is Eastern State, America’s first penitentiary that today convenes important conversations that deepen our collective understanding of the justice system in America. A visit to this institution provides groups with a look into justice education while building awareness of the past, illuminating the present, and inspiring action.
Photo courtesy of the PHLCVB
In the small but mighty state of Connecticut, maritime history abounds. At Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, groups can venture into the nation's leading maritime museum to explore a re-created seaport village, see America’s oldest commercial ship still afloat, witness traditional shipbuilding techniques from skilled shipwrights in the Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard, and more. Just over a mile away is Mystic Aquarium, home to thousands of species of marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, and reptiles. Visitors can admire the only beluga whales in New England, watch spritely African penguins, or enjoy a special call out message for the group during a tank dive or sea lion show. You might even choose to swing by the city of New Haven for a slice of New Haven-style apizza—a well-loved local tradition.
Photo courtesy of Mystic Seaport Museum
If there’s one thing you should know about New Jersey, it’s that culinary delights can be found around almost every corner. There’s even a state-wide Anthony Bourdain Food Trail, tracing the roots of the late celebrity chef, best-selling author and globe-trotting food and travel documentarian. In Elizabeth, groups could get a real feel for what’s on the menu thanks to the city’s vibrant international culinary scene. Whether you choose the authentic Colombian dishes at Parador Rojo, the various Haitian and Caribbean baked goods at Two Brothers Bakery, the tender meats and fruity sangrias found at Spanish restaurant Taberna Del Rei, or one of the many other stellar options, you truly can’t go wrong.
In Atlantic City, groups can of course walk America’s oldest boardwalk, indulge in some saltwater taffy, and test their luck at the city’s various ocean-side casinos. But beyond the gaming and nostalgic boardwalk, there’s plenty more still to discover. Luxury spas have emerged as a popular activity for visitors of all kinds, in addition to shopping at more than 70 stores inside Tanger Outlets Atlantic City.
If your aim is soaking up the region’s natural beauty, Maine should certainly be at the top of your list. The state’s Acadia National Park—known as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast—boasts stunning landscapes, no matter what time of year you choose to visit. From mostly rocky coastlines (besides the aptly named Sand Beach) and mountainous terrain to lush hiking trails, the park delivers on its promise to be a place groups won’t be able to forget. Need some gear for your adventures? Be sure to visit the L.L.Bean Flagship store in Freeport (temporarily located within the Camp L.L.Bean tent during renovations) for all your apparel and monogramming needs.
Continue your Northeast adventures by checking out additional ideas for:
Rhode Island | visitrhodeisland.com
Vermont | vermontvacation.com
New Hampshire | visitnh.gov
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
This article originally appeared in the Jan/Feb ’26 issue of Groups Today.
Main photo courtesy of Kelsey Hewson.
