Discover New England hosted media and trade to a family-style lunch in Dublin’s Little Lemon Restaurant, this week, and ITTN’S Sharon Jordan got the lowdown from Discover New England’s partners of Connecticut Tourism Office, Discover Quincy, Visit New Hampshire, Maine, The Newport Mansions and DATTCO who outlined what’s hot and what to look for over the next few seasons.
Kerrie Tripp, Director of Product and Sales, Discover New England opened the conversation with some key offerings and updates, including the following website initiatives outlining the multiple itineraries and trails available on www.discovernewengland.org.
She advised the 36+ strong group that there were currently 15 suggested 14-day itineraries available on their website – all designed to familiarise users with New England. The core emphasis is on creating client-friendly itineraries for the trade.
She also advised that the media hub on the website had unrestricted photos and its aim was to support users in creating collateral material. She also highlighted that seasonal opportunities existed with incredible activities available across all four seasons with the current focus on winter activities like skiing and snowmobiling.
Presentation Details –
Maine
Kerrie then introduced Carolann Oulette from the Office of Tourism, Maine. Carolann delivered a descriptive talk about Maine’s core identity which is “Forged by Nature” Here’s what she had to tell us:
Culturally, Maine is known for its strong ties to its maritime heritage. The state’s history is rich with stories of shipbuilding, fishing, and the vibrant Native American tribes that first inhabited the land. This cultural impact is evident in the art, music, and festivals celebrated throughout the state, such as the Maine Lobster Festival and the Common Ground Country Fair, which highlight local traditions and agricultural practices.
The state’s vibrant arts scene can be explored in cities like Portland, known for its galleries, theatres, and a burgeoning food culture that emphasises local ingredients. In essence, Maine is a state where natural beauty and cultural impact intertwine.
DATCO Coach and Corps
Carolann then introduced partner Dennis Lyons (DATCO Coach and Corps) who provided a lovely company update that told of a 100-year-old transportation company based in Connecticut that evolved from public transit to becoming the largest regional transport provider, with a school bus services transporting 137,000 children in Southern New England! Their charter bus services have over 200 vehicles, serving all New England gateway cities, so the new focus is on group transportation and regional connectivity.
It was then time to dine and enjoy the main course family meal of hake, gambas and steak before the presentations continued with an update from New Hampshire, led by Kerrie Tripp.
New Hampshire
Kerrie highlighted that New Hampshire is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and charming small towns. Among its highlights are its beautiful lakes and scenic areas that offers beautiful waterfront views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxation. Nearby, Lake Winnipesaukee, often referred to as “Winni” in local dialect, is the largest lake in the state and a popular spot for summer activities, including swimming and hiking around its picturesque shores.
Additionally, the Conway Scenic Railroad provides a unique way to experience the region’s breathtaking scenery. This historic railway offers scenic train rides through the majestic White Mountains and along the Saco River, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty and rich history of New Hampshire. Together, these attractions illustrate the state’s allure as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike
Connecticut
Next up to deliver an update was stalworth Sue Henrique from the State of Connecticut.
Sue, as always, delivered a colourful presentation that many of us in Ireland have come to love.
She reminded us that Connecticut is the third smallest state in the United States, but packed full of activity – and of course located between New York City and Boston. She also highlighted that they are finally being recognised along with Portland and a couple of other New England towns as being foodie destinations. With Mystic in particular getting a lot of attention in that area, with up and coming young chefs getting serious press, she highlighted that they are also home to two of the largest casinos in the US – they’re unlike the Vegas casinos because they are starting to create their casino reservations as a ‘destination’ becoming very child friendly, resorts like Foxwoods Resort Casino is the second largest casino in the US and they just recently opened the Great Wolf Lodge with 500 rooms and boasts a 400,000 square foot indoor water park. So they’re encouraging families to come along, and you can also see great concerts in their arena. You can golf, they have 35 free standing restaurants. Gordon Ramsay actually just did season 23 and 24 at Foxwood and Martha Stewart has decided that she’s going to open a restaurant there as well.
She spoke about Mystic Seaport, which is part of their heritage in Connecticut as a maritime. And of course New Haven, which is the home of Yale University – did you know it is also the birthplace of the hamburger! And just last June, New Haven was designated by Congress as the pizza capital of the United States, which has caused a stir with New York and New Jersey saying, hey what!?
Quincy
Dagny Ashley, Director of Tourism Quincy, delivered an eloquent talk on her hometown which located just south of Boston, is a city steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Known as the birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, Quincy features the Adams National Historical Park, which includes the family home and museum. This site provides visitors with insights into the lives of these prominent figures and highlights Quincy’s role in American history. The city also hosts various cultural events, art exhibits, and performances, making it a vibrant community for both residents and visitors.
Dining in Quincy offers a diverse array of options that cater to various tastes. The city is renowned for its seafood, with establishments like The Lobster Trap serving up fresh catches in a casual setting. For a more upscale experience, Alba Restaurant blends American and Italian cuisines, providing a unique dining atmosphere. With many eateries located near the waterfront, diners can enjoy beautiful views of the harbor while savouring their meals.
Quincy’s location makes it easily accessible from Boston via the MBTA Red Line, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore beyond the city. Its proximity to the scenic Blue Hills Reservation also offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures. This combination of convenience and natural beauty makes Quincy an appealing spot for day trips.
The marina area in Quincy is a focal point for recreation and leisure. Marina Bay features a picturesque waterfront with walking paths, shops, and restaurants, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a meal with a view. Visitors can engage in various water activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the harbour. The marina serves as a hub for both community gatherings and recreational pursuits, enhancing Quincy’s charm. So, there you have it!
Newport Mansions
Dan with Newport Mansions in Newport, Rhode Island was last up. And he detailed that they are located about an hour and a half south of Boston. Dan represents the historic house collection from the Gilded Age in America, which is from 1865 to right before World War I. The story being that a lot of wealthy American industrialists in New York and Philadelphia came to Newport and they wanted to emulate everything in Europe. The beautiful furniture, the shafts, the architecture. So they hired European architects and built it.
Large mansions, which they called ‘cottages’, which had about 78 rooms.
The plan was to escape the humidity of New York and Philadelphia in the summer and take in the beautiful salt air. Dan advised that if you’re not familiar, that there’s a TV show on HBO Max called The Gilded Age, which is written by the same writer as Downton Abbey!
Dan advised they offer self-guided audio tours, but they also pivoted and they offer personal tours and private tours – including offering tours after the house is closed to the public.
One of the most popular experiences for guests to book is to have a luxury picnic on the back lawns in the European sunken garden – can you imagine!
Dan advised that Newport’s a lot like Dublin. It’s a very walkable city with the same style of architecture. For those of us that don’t know, Newport was founded in the 1600s. And not only can you go to the mansions, go sailing, and engage in a multitude of activities but the food experience is exceptional and their sister city is Kinsale, Co Cork. So, imagine Kinsale but in America!
He finished by advising the group that Kinsale chefs come to Newport, where they have a week of Irish festivities – now that’s something I personally would love to attend!
Anyway, phew, a lot to take in, but if you want to learn more about New England, check out Shane’s videos and articles here:
