A sailing ship, a museum, a Santa-themed amusement park and two spooky Salem tours duked it out in this catch-all category. Which was named Best Attraction in the inaugural New England Travel Readers' Choice Awards?
The winner and runners-up for Best New England Attraction, Activity or Tour are...
1. ***Winner*** Paranormal Salem
Photo courtesy of Paranormal Salem
Paranormal Salem's outings are not your average ghost tours. The Salem, Massachusetts-based company takes a scientific approach to investigating this storied city's eerie sights. Participants head out armed with ghost hunting equipment on a two-hour, late night adventure that's bound to be spirited... even if you don't capture your own ghost photo, video or audio recording.
2. Salem Witch Walk
In a city known for making the most of a dark chapter in its history, the Salem Witch Walk takes visitors beyond the witchcraft trials and into the magical realm of modern witchcraft. Tours are led by true Salem Witches, and you'll walk away with a magic crystal and mojo bag blessed by a practicing witch, as well as with fascinating understanding and maybe even a few charms and curses up your sleeve.3. Schooner Isaac H. Evans
Photo by Elizabeth Hinkle, courtesy of the Schooner Isaac H. Evans
Based on the tidal wave of nominations it received, the Schooner Isaac H. Evans, which sails from Rockland, Maine, is the New England attraction to beat. A member of the Maine Windjammer Association and the only ship to receive the Maine Tourism Award, this historic vessel, which is celebrating its remarkable 125th anniversary, takes passengers 6 and up on unforgettable, multi-day sailing adventures.
4. Santa's Village
(c) 2006 Kim Knox Beckius
It's always the most wonderful time of the year at Santa's Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire, where families have been making memories since 1953. In addition to amusement rides and shows, this Christmas-themed park also features opportunities to visit with Santa and his reindeer.
5. Higgins Armory Museum
© 1999 Kim Knox Beckius
The Higgins Armory Museum in Worcester, Massachusetts, is the Western Hemisphere's only museum solely devoted to arms and armor, and its collection of knightly weapons and attire is one of the largest found outside of Europe. It's a place to immerse yourself in Medieval artistry and chivalry, and readers' nominations have rightly catapulted it into contention for Best Attraction honors.
