Unique things to do in New England
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Unique things to do in New England

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Top-rated activities

German Shepherd Large Pack Hike
Enjoy the true outdoors with an easy 3/4 - 1 mile private nature hike hosted by a pack of loose, well trained German Shepherd Dogs. The hike starts at our farm in coastal Maine and wanders through a network of trails winding through a natural wild Maine forest. You will be hiking with a large pack of (5 to 12) loose german shepherd dogs of various ages who will want attention along the way! On the walk there are soft forest trails, sometimes mud puddles and slippery footing. Throughout our adventure you will learn tips on hiking with a pack of German Shepherds the way they communicate and what their body language means. Once we return there will be bathroom facilities, snacks and beverages. We will also talk about how we raise and imprint our young shepherds and prepare them as family companions. Your hosts for the nature walk will be either Jennifer, Katie, or both! We began offering pack walks at our open house for our German Shepherd Breeding program, and because of the enthusiasm and popularity, we decided to host this event through Airbnb. This hike is a carefully selected pack of our own German Shepherds. We do not allow visiting dogs to join on the pack hike. Children under two years old are FREE
Make Traditional Vermont Maple Syrup
Your group (up to 10 persons) will learn the process of making maple syrup. I will guide you through a tasting of the different syrup grades and explain how to grade and bottle maple syrup. We will then try some sugar on snow which you will never forget! Maple sap runs when the days are above 38 degrees and the nights are below freezing. If the sap is not running or we don't have sap in storage, I will boil water (sap is 97% water) for the class. If the dates that we have listed don't work for your time frame, just send me an email and I can see if we can find another time for your true Vermont maple experience. We produce our syrup in an artisan way and you will be able to see this when you sample our maple products. We will have a maximum of 10 people, the sugar house is small, and we are not a giant production house that does thousand of gallons per year. Children under 5 are free. We at most make 60 gallons, most of which I bottle in my handblown glass! Other things to note: Part of the experience will be outside to see how sap flows from the tree into lines hung on maple trees. Inside the sugar house, we'll have the evaporator boiling (sap in season water when not in season). We do not have any toilet facilities- except in the wood! So please plan ahead.
Guided Sunset tour on Sebago Lake by Kayak
Set out on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Maine on this two-hour kayak tour. Discover the serene beauty of water-carved bends and meandering streams, where local wildlife thrives against a backdrop of rustic charm. As we embark on our journey, we'll navigate the gentle twists and turns of a meandering stream, revealing the untouched beauty. Let the tranquil waters carry you along as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the natural world. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable Registered Maine Guide will regal you with captivating stories, bringing the scene to life with native lore and insights. Surrounded by panoramic views we pause and marvel as the sun sets behind the Towering pines. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, rest assured this outing requires no previous experience - just a sense of adventure and a desire to unwind. Other things to note: A signed waiver is required This tour starts and ends in the same location. Unfortunately, ride share services are unreliable in this area, and we would strongly recommend other forms of transportation to/from this tour. Gratuity not included in ticket price
Abstract Palette Knife Painting Class - Hue Studio
Guests will be greeted at my sunny home studio by me! Everyone will get a smock and and a stool and I'll introduce you to some of my work, then get you started on your own piece. Using acrylic paints, paint medium (thickener) and palette knives, you will choose your own colors and subject as I guide you through my method of abstract palette knife painting. Whether you create a landscape, a sunset or a color field, the process is soothing, meditative and an overall fun experience. Your end result will be uniquely yours and something to remember your visit by. Other things to note PLEASE NOTE: Class time are flexible -please contact me to set up a different time. ***Travel classes will have an additional 20% gratuity***
Woods Hole Portrait & Lifestyle Photo Shoot
**Please book as "1 person" even if you're a group. Capture memories on Cape Cod with a private photo shoot at Nobska Beach. I will photograph you against the sparkling waters of Nobska and the beach landscape. Guests will receive approximately 30 edited images from the session, via dropbox within 72 hours. The session usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Don't hesitate to reach out if you don't see the time slot you'd like to book and we can be sure to set one up! We will meet at Nobska lighthouse parking lot. Portfolio: fortheseastudio (dot) com

Loved by locals

Shuck Oysters on the Harbor
Our life philosophy is EAT ANYTHING, ANYWHERE. We like eating some of the best foods, in odd places. We will meet on the docks of East Boston where we will tear into and slurp dozens of local oysters, harvested by our oyster farmer friends, while looking over the harbor and skyline. You will learn how to properly shuck an oyster and will go home with a shucking knife of your own. The memories will be in the details. We will set up in "flash-mob" "pop-up" style along the water. Expect the unexpected. Other things to note This is an outdoor experience. To get to the dock, I encourage you to take a water taxi! There are several pick-up points and I am happy to help arrange this for you.
Create with clay in Maine!
Each student will learn how to use the slab roller, make clay coils and the basics of hand building. A wheel for throwing is also available as well as glazes and Kiln. You make take home what you create with the amount of clay allotted.
Create a Mosaic in Boston Artist Studio
In this experience you’ll make your own mosaic at the SoWa Mosaics studio in the heart of Boston’s Art + Design district! SoWa Mosaics is a bright and welcoming space featuring mosaics made with homemade tiles of all shapes and sizes. Each student chooses a square board or picture frame as their base. We will spend a few minutes talking about mosaics and our unique process then you’ll get started glueing tiles and creating your own unique mosaic selecting from an abundance of our handmade colorful tiles. During the workshop we’ll be walking around to help guide and encourage your work. For smaller groups we like to sit down and create one with you too! At the end of the workshop, your mosaic will be glued and safe to take home but needs a day to get sturdy and dry completely before you can grout it. Each student goes home with a goodie bag containing grout, gloves and instructions on how to put the finishing touches on the artwork. After or before the workshop we encourage you to walk around and visit the 100+ other artists, galleries and shops here. Sundays are the most active with several other studios open and a vintage market in the basement. On Sundays in May thru October we have food trucks and outdoor markets too! Other things to note No art experience necessary. Intended for adults but appropriate for kids 10+. All ages welcome for birthday parties or private family activities. I can host 20ish people. Want a different day/time? Message me! I’m happy to adjust times and/or plan private events. Excited to create with you!
Intro Letterpress Printing Workshop
At the Quick Letterpress Printing Workshop, we will examine the history and technology that made letterpress printing possible, we will typeset lead type into monogrammed notecards, and we will use an antique Vandercook proofing press to print these notecards onto a range of carstock and fine art papers. Attendees will take home a personalized A2 notecard that they typeset and printed themselves. Great for teams, great for families and great for groups! I've had several bridal showers, company team-building workshops and family outings at the press, and everyone has a great time. Print your family motto, short quote, pithy joke or your company vision statement! Other things to note This is a hands-on experience, and letterpress printing is a technical trade that takes some physical involvement. Your hand-made item will, indeed, be hand-made by you!
Sommelier-Lead Guided Wine Tasting
Lucille Wine Shop & Tasting Room is the only local wine shop where customers can receive fine dining-calibre hospitality and sommelier-level knowledge while supporting a female-family-owned business. Located a half-hour north of Boston, in Lynn, Massachusetts, our wine store features a comprehensive collection of carefully sourced fine wines - featuring organic and natural wines from all around the world, everyday gems, and fine & rare selections. In addition to wine, we also have a selection of craft beers to choose from. Join us for Sommelier-led wine tasting wine tasting. At Lucille, we provide guests the opportunity to enjoy our collection while learning about wine. We offer wine tastings on Fridays and Saturdays. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Flight of 4 unique and handcrafted wines- the topic and theme changes every other week to showcase what we’re most excited about! Whether it be a discussion and tasting on: Tuscany, Syrah, Portugal, or orange wines! A selection of local cheeses, charcuterie, snacks, and accompaniments A guided educational experience lead by our in-house sommelier team, recommendations, and time to shop 21+ EVENT ONLY WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED? GRATUITY Our in house sommelier team works very hard to provide a thoughtful experience for you. Please tip them based on your experience. This is not included in your pre-paid experience.

All activities near New England

German Shepherd Large Pack Hike
Enjoy the true outdoors with an easy 3/4 - 1 mile private nature hike hosted by a pack of loose, well trained German Shepherd Dogs. The hike starts at our farm in coastal Maine and wanders through a network of trails winding through a natural wild Maine forest. You will be hiking with a large pack of (5 to 12) loose german shepherd dogs of various ages who will want attention along the way! On the walk there are soft forest trails, sometimes mud puddles and slippery footing. Throughout our adventure you will learn tips on hiking with a pack of German Shepherds the way they communicate and what their body language means. Once we return there will be bathroom facilities, snacks and beverages. We will also talk about how we raise and imprint our young shepherds and prepare them as family companions. Your hosts for the nature walk will be either Jennifer, Katie, or both! We began offering pack walks at our open house for our German Shepherd Breeding program, and because of the enthusiasm and popularity, we decided to host this event through Airbnb. This hike is a carefully selected pack of our own German Shepherds. We do not allow visiting dogs to join on the pack hike. Children under two years old are FREE
Two Hour Lighthouse Bike Tour
Lighthouse Bikes offers bicycle tours, close to a paved trail that connects the lighthouses of South Portland. Join us for a historic tour by bike to learn more about the rich history of this area while enjoying a leisurely ride! All bikes are classic Worksman cruisers with comfortable seats, handmade baskets perfect for picnicking and pedal brakes. Our tours cover topics from shipbuilding in Maine, to the local ecology, the history of the lighthouses and insider tips for folks new to the area. The ride is mostly flat and covers five miles.
Make Traditional Vermont Maple Syrup
Your group (up to 10 persons) will learn the process of making maple syrup. I will guide you through a tasting of the different syrup grades and explain how to grade and bottle maple syrup. We will then try some sugar on snow which you will never forget! Maple sap runs when the days are above 38 degrees and the nights are below freezing. If the sap is not running or we don't have sap in storage, I will boil water (sap is 97% water) for the class. If the dates that we have listed don't work for your time frame, just send me an email and I can see if we can find another time for your true Vermont maple experience. We produce our syrup in an artisan way and you will be able to see this when you sample our maple products. We will have a maximum of 10 people, the sugar house is small, and we are not a giant production house that does thousand of gallons per year. Children under 5 are free. We at most make 60 gallons, most of which I bottle in my handblown glass! Other things to note: Part of the experience will be outside to see how sap flows from the tree into lines hung on maple trees. Inside the sugar house, we'll have the evaporator boiling (sap in season water when not in season). We do not have any toilet facilities- except in the wood! So please plan ahead.
Lighthouse Sailing Tour
Take a sailboat tour around Muscongus Bay to see a unique perspective of a local lighthouse: from the water on a sailboat. Our boat, s/v Shearwater, is a classic plastic New England designed Pearson 10M. She is a comfortable live-aboard cruiser named for the birds that followed my wife and I across the Atlantic ocean during our voyage in 2022. Our trip will start from the Friendship Townlanding and head out into Muscongus Bay as we make our way out to Franklin Lighthouse. Along the way enjoy sites of the beautiful Maine coast and the occasional harbor seal!
Row a Wooden Boat in Belfast Bay
Row a wooden dory in beautiful Belfast Bay with an experienced open water rower and licensed Maine Guide! This is one of a kind experience that is classically Maine. Try something new, commune with the natural world and have fun with family and friends! You can row or be a passenger. All skill-levels welcome! We'll row in Belfast Harbor, out in the bay and/or up the Passagassawakeag River, a tidal estuary, depending on the tide and weather conditions. We'll observe the abundant wildlife that live here. This can include eagles, osprey, cormorants, Great Blue Herons, a variety of ducks, seals, otters and the occasional harbor porpoise! My boat can seat up to three other people. Ideal for couples and small groups of 2-3 people. Individuals also welcome. Children ages 12 and up are welcome; under 14 with a parent/guardian. This experience is offered in the mornings and late afternoons, year-round. Weather is always a consideration when going out on the water. Your safety is my top priority. I will embark in a variety of conditions, including light rain and mist, fog, snow, light-moderate breezes and some ocean chop/swell. If conditions aren't favorable I will work with you to reschedule your row. If this isn't possible, a refund will be issued. Looking forward to rowing with you!
Birdwatching in the Mount Washington Valley
(2-hrs Birding Experience) We will visit New Hampshire's Mt. Washington Valley in search of a wide variety of birds breeding, migrating, or overwintering in the area. We will visit the low-elevation northern hardwoods forest in search of the great number of wood warblers, vireos, and more. Guests can decide where we spend our time to add to their lifelist or to find birds not often seen. If you do not see a date and time fits your schedule, send an inquiry or request to me. I might be able to make the schedule work for you or your group. Other related AirBNB Experiences offered in the region are Marginal Way Birding (Ogunquit, ME), Birding the Middlesex Fells (Boston, MA), Plum Island Birding (Newburyport, MA), Biddeford Pool Birdwatching (Biddeford, ME), Coastal NH Birdwatching (Portsmouth, NH) Any of these can be substituted or scheduled. Inquire to find out. Other things to note The start time and start location for the tour can be adjusted and guests can determine birding objectives.
Sailing on Twin Lakes in Salisbury Conn- Not Mass bad link
From May 1- Columbus Day weekend we offer folks a chance to get out on the water and enjoy the beauty of Twin Lakes, Salisbury, Connecticut (not MA as in the link below the title...Airbnb won't fix!) with views of the mountains on our Captained Aquarius sailboat, we take a maximum of four people and supply life jackets and comfy dry seating. Guests can bring food but no alcohol. Cruises are 2 hours and start at 11 am and run through sunset. These are private charters so you will be with your own family and friends. We are the only sailboat charter in the tri-state (CT/MA/NY) southern Berkshires and Litchfield Hills. Other things to note Children under 4 may not enjoy the experience as it is not real active ... actually very relaxing.
Create a Custom Crystal Candle
Come to the serene setting of Austerlitz, NY where the candle shop sits on 2 acres of woods & a creek. You’ll choose crystals from my collection of 30+ to design your own custom crystal candle made of 100% soy wax. All candles are already poured into vintage glassware with a wide variety of scents to choose from. If you'd like a separate workshop on how to make candles from scratch, please message me with that request!
Guided Sunset tour on Sebago Lake by Kayak
Set out on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Maine on this two-hour kayak tour. Discover the serene beauty of water-carved bends and meandering streams, where local wildlife thrives against a backdrop of rustic charm. As we embark on our journey, we'll navigate the gentle twists and turns of a meandering stream, revealing the untouched beauty. Let the tranquil waters carry you along as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the natural world. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable Registered Maine Guide will regal you with captivating stories, bringing the scene to life with native lore and insights. Surrounded by panoramic views we pause and marvel as the sun sets behind the Towering pines. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, rest assured this outing requires no previous experience - just a sense of adventure and a desire to unwind. Other things to note: A signed waiver is required This tour starts and ends in the same location. Unfortunately, ride share services are unreliable in this area, and we would strongly recommend other forms of transportation to/from this tour. Gratuity not included in ticket price
Martha's Vineyard Lifestyle & Portrait Photo Shoot
**Please book as "1 person" even if you're a group. Capture memories in sunny Martha's Vineyard with a portrait and lifestyle photo shoot. Perfect for friends, families or individuals, I will be directing you throughout the shoot so this is a great time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Guests will receive approximately 30 edited images from the session, via dropbox within 72 hours. The session usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Don't hesitate to reach out if you don't see the time slot you'd like to book and we can be sure to set one up! Portfolio: fortheseastudio (dot) com
Abstract Palette Knife Painting Class - Hue Studio
Guests will be greeted at my sunny home studio by me! Everyone will get a smock and and a stool and I'll introduce you to some of my work, then get you started on your own piece. Using acrylic paints, paint medium (thickener) and palette knives, you will choose your own colors and subject as I guide you through my method of abstract palette knife painting. Whether you create a landscape, a sunset or a color field, the process is soothing, meditative and an overall fun experience. Your end result will be uniquely yours and something to remember your visit by. Other things to note PLEASE NOTE: Class time are flexible -please contact me to set up a different time. ***Travel classes will have an additional 20% gratuity***
Portsmouth, NH-Explore The Islands & Harbor Guided Bike Tour
There are several small but charming islands off of the Port and worth exploring! You will leave the hustle and bustle of Market Square and head to the waterfront. You will pedal through the charming islands, gardens, lush parks & over to New Castle Island to greet the vast Atlantic Ocean. Your senses will come alive as you pedal to the open sea. You will stop on islands in Portsmouth and New Castle to hear stories about the fishmongers, naval shipyard, our state motto, fortifications, and the transformations of a rundown waterfront into a beautiful park. Arrive at the Historic John Paul Jones House 43 Middle Street, for a meet and greet. Private Groups visit PortCity Bike Tours ​Highlights: ​​Pedal along the Piscataqua River out to New Castle Island Visit New Castle Island Village Visit the Great Island Common to hear about the Isle of Shoals and lighthouses (great place for photos!) Visit Fort Stark to hear about the father to our state motto "Live Free or Die" Visit Four Tree and Pierce Islands to hear about the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (great place for photos!) Visit Prescott Park to hear about Prescott Sister's transformation from the combat zone to a park. What To Expect: At your selected departure time, meet 30 minutes before your tour start time, please. -2-2.5 hours -8-12 miles -Easy(some small hills) -Sign a waiver -Friendly guide, 21-speed hybrid bike & safety
Woods Hole Portrait & Lifestyle Photo Shoot
**Please book as "1 person" even if you're a group. Capture memories on Cape Cod with a private photo shoot at Nobska Beach. I will photograph you against the sparkling waters of Nobska and the beach landscape. Guests will receive approximately 30 edited images from the session, via dropbox within 72 hours. The session usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Don't hesitate to reach out if you don't see the time slot you'd like to book and we can be sure to set one up! We will meet at Nobska lighthouse parking lot. Portfolio: fortheseastudio (dot) com
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine!
Paint plein air in the scenic Portland area in the foot steps of Winslow Homer. We will be painting on a rocky shore studded with lighthouses, in pastoral marshes or seaside gardens. This 3 hour workshop will introduce you to stunningly beautiful landscapes loved by local artists. I will give you tips for painting outdoors with watercolor medium. You will create a unique painting that captures your experience. Experience required? No. Beginners through advanced painters are welcome! Please let me know if I can set up a specific start time and date to suit your itinerary. I am happy to create a customized session to suit your group and itinerary. Transportation to the painting location is not included. Once your experience is booked, you will be contacted with meeting location. The location will be less than a 5 mile drive from Portland city proper I will provide materials and equipment needed to paint outdoors. Comfortable footwear, clothing and sun protection are recommended. Other things to note: Painting outdoors is weather dependent and subject to cancellation at the instructors discretion.
Coastal Ecology Exploration
Cape Cod holds a unique position in the New England pantheon of interesting places. Birthed by a glacier, battered by winter storms, geologically transient, and ecologically sensitive, Many Cape Codders live their lives never fully understanding the ecology of Cape Cod. Cape Cod Learning Tours provides a unique and exciting learning experience. By combining hands on exploration with real scientific equipment we bring a level of interest and participation that most others lack. We use Water Chemistry kits, and coastal identification tools to bear on exploring and discovering the natural wonders of the shores of Cape Cod. Our naturalists are true botanists, biologists, teachers and professors. We will visit the low tide flats of Cape Cod Bay and explore that environment in detail. From identifying the tracks and signs of animals that live there to exploring the waters edge. All of our naturalists have at least 15 years experience teaching in outdoor or indoor classrooms. Highly respected and knowledgeable we will create a highly memeorable adventure!