By Eben Diskin | Published on September 26, 2025
Fun facts about the Northeastern region of the United States reveal just how much there is to love about this culturally rich and geographically diverse area. From scenic coastlines and forested mountains to historic towns and world-famous seafood, the Northeast is full of surprises that make it a favorite for travelers and locals alike. What sets the region apart isn’t just its natural beauty, but the deep sense of history, distinct character and proud local culture found across its 13 states and territories.
Whether you’re curious about landmarks in the Northeast region, want to plan your next road trip or want to learn some interesting facts about the local landmarks, cuisine and traditions, this guide will uncover what makes it so special.
I've lived in New England my whole life, and I'm still discovering new facts about the region that blow me away and make me eager to continue exploring. These fun facts will help you see this part of the country in a whole new light and prepare for the trip of a lifetime that must include lobster.
Explore the History of the Northeast Region
Visiting the Northeast means getting acquainted with its defining history. Long before Europeans arrived, between 70,000 and 100,000 Native Americans lived in New England at the start of the 17th century, subsisting on fishing, hunting, gathering and trade with European merchants. The Pilgrims' arrival in Massachusetts in 1620 marked the beginning of a disruption to Native Americans' way of life and their gradual displacement and marginalization. Several landmarks in the Northeast region commemorate the area's Native American past. These are must-visits for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the Northeast's history.
The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University is a great place to start. The museum features a huge collection of Native American materials from the region, including paintings, drawings, prints and archaeological finds. There's also the Cyrus Dallin Museum in Arlington, Massachusetts, which is dedicated to Native American sculptures that pay homage to the region's Indigenous traditions.
While you're in the area, you should also check out the famous Plymouth Plantation. This open-air living history museum replicates the original Pilgrim settlement, established in the 17th century. It may be the most immersive historical experience you'll find in New England.
The most well-known dark stain on Massachusetts' past —the Salem Witch Trials — is also one of its biggest tourist draws. In the late 17th century, hundreds of women were erroneously accused of being witches, and many were wrongfully executed. Even though these events occurred over 300 years ago, they continue to capture the modern-day imagination.
Salem remains a pilgrimage site for visitors fascinated by the witch trials. In addition to spooky ghost tours and museums dedicated to the trials, Salem is a classic New England town with historic red-brick buildings — probably haunted — and a rich literary tradition thanks to Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Massachusetts can't hog all the historic glory — or shame, depending on how you look at it. Washington, D.C., is an absolute must for any visitor to the Northeast. Fast-forwarding a little through time to the founding of the United States, the capital is the best place to immerse yourself in our nation's political history.
Memorials and monuments abound here. Visit the majestic Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the World War II Memorial or the Washington Monument. While the White House is unparalleled as a bastion of history, don’t neglect the world-famous Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Air and Space Museum. One exceptional perk — most museums are free.
Northeastern Food and Cultural Attractions Guide
It's hard to get a sense of any destination without sampling its food. One of the most interesting facts about the Northeast region and its cuisine is that it includes far more than seafood. There's also a wide range of regional dishes steeped in cultural tradition and quirky history.
Of course, any visitor to the Northeast will want to try the fresh seafood. From clam shacks lining the seaboard to classic fish and chip joints and more upscale lobster restaurants, you won't get tired of the Northeast's seafood anytime soon. Start with a Maine lobster roll — a staple of the region. Prepared traditionally, you can look forward to chopped lobster on a split-top hot dog bun with mayo.
And then, there's the clam chowder. You can probably find it anywhere in the country, but no place else makes it like the Northeast. New England clam chowder consists of clams, diced potatoes and onions in a milk-based broth. Manhattan clam chowder is another option, which has a tomato base.
Once you've had your fill of seafood, it's time to check out some of the area's other delicacies. If you've ever wondered why Boston is known as "Beantown," it's because of the famous Boston baked beans. White beans are parboiled, baked in sauce and often served at barbecues. They originated in Native American cuisine and were soon adopted by the English colonists.
If you're looking for something a bit meatier, look no further than a traditional Irish boiled dinner — otherwise known as a Yankee pot roast. Brought to Massachusetts by Irish immigrants, a boiled dinner consists of boiled corned meat, cabbage, potatoes and carrots. There's nothing more warming to both the stomach and the soul after wandering the cold streets of Boston in the winter.
Geographic Features in the Northeast Region
New England is known for its historic architecture, but to some, one of the most surprising Northeastern facts is that the region's natural beauty is among the best in the country. Whether it's the forests of Maine dotted with lakes, the vibrant fall foliage in Autumn, the beaches of Cape Cod or the lighthouse-lined coast spanning hundreds of miles, New England lives up to its postcard reputation. The best way to experience the region's natural wonders is by diving into the rugged wilderness.
Mount Washington is one of the best hikes in the Northeast. As the region's tallest mountain, it stands at 6,288 feet and offers some of the most impressive views anywhere in the country. If you're not quite in the mood for a strenuous hike, you can also drive up the mountain for a shortcut to the views — and then slap on a bumper sticker that says, "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington."
Indeed, there's a reason people from all over the Northeast head to New Hampshire for outdoor adventure. Home to the White Mountains, the state boasts some of the most dramatic scenery in the region, particularly in Franconia Notch State Park. This mountain pass, between the White Mountains and the Kinsman Range, is renowned for its lakes, snow-capped peaks, gorges and the now "deceased" Old Man of the Mountain rock formation, which collapsed in 2003. The Artist Bluff Trail is one of the best ways to explore the park. It's an easy 1.5-mile loop that takes you through the mountains with stunning panoramas the whole way.
Mountains and forests are just one aspect of New England's scenery. One of my favorite fun facts about the Northeast region is that some of the best hiking is actually on the beach. That's why a visit to Provincetown's Dune Shack Trail is a must for both beach goers and hikers. Provincetown, at the tip of Massachusetts' Cape Cod, is known for its lively LGBTQ culture and natural coastal beauty. The Dune Shack Trail runs through the sand dunes on a pristine beach and past small cottages and cranberry bogs. It's the perfect excuse to combine some physical exercise —those dunes can be steep — with a beach day in one of the Cape's most quaint vacation towns.
Major Cities and Landmarks to Visit In the Northeast US
With so much to do in the Northeast, where do you even start? Unfortunately, it's impossible to see every city, climb every mountain or consume every type of fish in just one visit. First, figure out what kind of trip you want to have. Are you looking for a beach vacation? A history tour? An outdoor adventure? One of the most important facts about the Northeastern United States is there's something for everyone. You just have to plan accordingly.
For a beach weekend, Cape Cod is one of the best vacation spots in the Northeast. The Massachusetts peninsula is immensely popular with local residents, many of whom flock to the Cape on summer weekends. From the nightlife of Hyannis and Provincetown to the more relaxing beaches of Dennis and Eastham, Cape Cod feels like its own world, where the troubles of everyday life wash away in a salty undertow.
If immersing yourself in U.S. history is your goal, head to Boston. In addition to the city's natural historic aesthetic — with cobblestone streets, centuries-old churches and Revolution-era taverns — there's the famous Freedom Trail. Follow the route to see a collection of museums, meeting houses and cemeteries that tell the tale of the American Revolution. Sites include the Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Boston Massacre Site, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Constitution and Granary Burying Ground.
Nature lovers should pack up the car, hit the road and plunge into the lush wilderness of Maine. Bar Harbor is the best of all worlds — it's right on the ocean, with all the beach benefits you've come to expect from the region, while also providing access to some incredible hiking trails through the forest. The Bar Island Trail, Dorr Mountain North Ridge Trail and Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail are perfect for drinking in the area's natural beauty. And when you're done, stop back in the quaint town for some ice cream and lobster rolls.
Your Northeastern Adventure Awaits
From fascinating history and iconic landmarks to scenic landscapes and unforgettable food, the Northeastern region of the U.S. has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're planning your first visit or looking to discover something new, there's no better way to experience it all than by sea. Explore our New England Cruises and start planning your Northeast adventure today.
Explore our New England Cruises and start planning your Northeast adventure today.
Get Royal Deals, Sign Up Today
Getting There
Explore Our Most Affordable Itineraries
To put these Northeastern facts to good use and see all the region has to offer, check out one of Royal Caribbean's Northeast cruises.
