Jackson

Just off Route 16 via a red covered bridge, photogenic Jackson retains its storybook New England character. Art and antiques shopping, tennis, golf, fishing, and hiking to waterfalls are among the draws, as well as a high concentration of upscale country inns. When the snow falls, Jackson becomes the state's cross-country skiing capital, and there are also four downhill ski areas nearby—hotels and inns provide ski shuttles.