South Turner in Baxter State Park is short (only 2 miles to the summit), and has spectacular views of Katahdin (you also pass by Sandy Stream Pond along the way). It's also a rather easy hike because my daughter was able to climb it at the age of 5, back in 2000 (though I did carry her down that last scramble near the top).
Cadillac Mt. in Acadia is also easy AND spectacular. Speaking of Acadia, I also want to mention the Beehive, but don't do that one if you are afraid of heights.
Another one not mentioned yet is the Welch/Dickey Loop. So easy, yet so beautiful...
In VT, though it is a 4k, Camel's Hump is one awesome peak and easy to climb.
Another "bang for your buck" is Bald Mt. in Old Forge, NY (which I have climbed 5 times, but haven't been back since I was 12 years old.
In the Adk's, definitely Cascade, though it is a 4k...
cool thread...