I’ve been to New England once before, but only briefly. It was enough for me to fall in love and vow to return. This past year, my fiance and I went for the second time and I immediately knew it would be different, we had the luxury of time! New England is a place you find beauty in everything and everywhere, including at a rest stop on our way to Woodstock, Vermont. Truly an indescribable feeling I only hope you get to witness with the help of my 5 day New England Fall road trip itinerary. And if you also have the luxury of time make sure to keep reading and learn how to make the most of a 7 day New England states road trip itinerary!
Table of Contents
Where is New England?
New England is a region in the Northeastern United States made up of 6 states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Because these states are so close in proximity, and easily accessible with a car, New England is the perfect place for a states road trip!
When To Go?
If you’re looking for peak foliage, make sure to look into foliage trackers, which give you a general idea of when to visit, like this one. I will say this, use these as a general guide. Alex and I went to New England after “peak foliage” and there was still plenty of beauty to see. There were PLENTY of beautiful trees with gorgeous colors. Good rule of thumb.
How To Get There?
You can access New England from any of the airports in the six states:
- Boston Logan International Airport – Massachusetts
- Bradley International Airport – Connecticut
- Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport -Rhode Island
- Burlington International Airport – Vermont
- Portland International Jetport – Maine
- Manchester Boston Regional Airport – New Hampshire
- Albany International Airport – New York (technically not part of New England, but it’s right outside it)
Depending on where you’d like to start your journey, you have many options to choose from. As I was researching flights, though, I noticed flights were slightly cheaper when you flew in and out of Boston. This makes sense as it’s a bigger airport, something to keep in mind. I will say the best way to get around New England will be by car, so renting one will be a must. Now don’t worry if you don’t like driving in a busy metropolitan city like Boston, the plan is to briefly be in the city.
5 Day New England Road Trip
With so much to see in New England, we sometimes may or may not have the luxury of time to explore it all. Below I’ve drafted two different itineraries to best accommodate a 5 day New England Road Trip and a 7 Day New England Road Trip itinerary. Obviously, these are suggestions, so adjust as you see fit.
Now, imagine your plane descends into Boston, you’re excited to get started on your New England states road trip, but where do you begin? Well, now the adventures begin *rubs hands together*! We start off with our 5 day road trip around New England with Acadia National Park.
Acadia National Park
Now ,if you don’t know this by now, I am a national park enthusiast! So of course, I had to take advantage of my time in New England and include Acadia National park in this New England road trip itinerary. At only about 5 hours away from Boston, Acadia is the perfect destination to kick off our New England fall road trip. Yes, it’s 5 hours, and you might be thinking “Grace, that is crazy far!” And to that I say, buckle up buttercup, because with all the sightseeing you’ll be doing, time will fly by!
Depending on your preference, you can spend a day or two at the park. I would highly recommend you at least spend one day and check out some of Acadia’s highlights, like Cadillac mountain! Check out my guide for more detailed information.
Explore more of Maine with the help of my latest road trip guide!
Conway, New Hampshire
Next up on our 5 day New England Road trip is New Hampshire! Get ready to check out some surreal foliage. I think I can safely say, New Hampshire has been the state with the best foliage I have seen yet. You drive along the roads thinking it can’t possibly get any more beautiful, but it truly does. At about four hours from Acadia, you’ll come across Conway, New Hampshire. Now, you’ll want to wake up early on the the day you visit because we’ll have so much to cover:
Conway Scenic Railroad
Take a step back in time and check out the fall foliage in an old-fashioned railroad experience. All trains depart from the 1841 train station located in North Conway Village. Vintage much? Depending on your availability, a train excursion is a great way to explore the town and see more of the scenic road.
Due to our schedule, and to the last minute adjustments, we only had time to ride the Conway Valley train. This 55 minute ride was perfect for us, because it helped us stay dry during the light rain storm we woke up to, plus, it made the perfect place to take a quick cat nap. Unfortunately, it wasn’t as scenic as I thought it would have been (check out the Mountaineer!), but we were still able to experience an old-fashioned train ride! Prices vary by excursion so make sure to check out there site for more information on ticket sales.
North Conway Downtown Shops
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- I love exploring small towns in the middle of nowhere, and Conway is no exception. Visit the heart of Conway by checking out some local shops:
- Zeb’s General Store – a Conway staple, here you will find an assortment of items from food, souvenirs, and so much more!
- White Birch Books – love books? Then check out this independent, women-owned book shop!
- North Conway 5 & 10 cents store – go back in time when you visit North Conway 5 & 10 cents store for some vintage candy and legit New Hampshire souvenirs.
- The Met Coffee House – need a quick pick me up? Then check out the Met for some coffee, tea or light pastries as you gear up for the day!
- Sea Dog Brewing – Not necessarily a shop, but a damn good place to go eat at!
Besides getting to experience new places, I love, love, love supporting small, local businesses wherever I travel to. After all, when you’re supporting a small business you’re supporting a dream, so make sure to stop by these shops and more next time you’re in downtown Conway!
Covered bridge
I never realized how popular covered bridges were in New England until I saw them all over the area this past year. This one in particular is called Swift River Covered Bridge, which can be found on your way towards Conway before you get on the Kancamagus Highway. Picturesque, isn’t it?
Kancamagus Highway
If your main goal is to witness the fall foliage, add this destination to the top of your New England fall road trip itinerary right now! If there is one thing you do make sure it’s checking out this area. This almost 35 mile scenic drive is known for the best fall foliage in the country for a reason. Located along route 112, between Lincoln and Conway, New Hampshire, you can drive up and down the highway to see the foliage from your car or stop by the road and check out a short trail to immerse yourself in it all.
Lincoln, New Hampshire
Once you make it through the Kancamagus Highway, I recommend to explore Lincoln, New Hampshire! You’re probably wondering, ‘Grace, what the heck is in Lincoln, New Hampshire?’ and to that I say just trust me 😉. Now, I will admit Lincoln, New Hampshire blew my own expectations. I didn’t realize there would be so much beauty in New Hampshire in general! Now this day is packed with loads of activity so saddle up!
Flume Gorge
Flume Gorge is located within White Mountain National Forest. It’s a natural gorge hiking area where you can see Conway granite walls stand tall at 70 to 90 feet. The trail itself is about a 2-mile loop, which can take about an hour and a half to complete, depending on your pace. The trail consists of some uphill walking, stairs, waterfalls and slippery boardwalks. There is so much to see, from moss growing along the walls, waterfalls, ferns and much more.
On the day we visited it was raining which was great because we had the whole place to ourselves. It was quite serene. We were told rain would definitely provide us with some waterfalls and they were right. There is a fee to visit the gorge of about $18/ person if you make your reservations online, make sure to do so to see availability. Definitely a place to check out.
White Mountain National Forest
Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to explore the White Mountain National Forest as much as I would have liked, with the exception of visiting the Flume Gorge and stopping along the Kancamagus Highway. So if you’re a nature enthusiasts/ hiking fan, make time to visit the forest. Check out this link for a list of hiking trails to check out.
Artist Bluff
Make sure to check out this hike next time you visit Franconia, New Hampshire; it is only 20 minutes up the road from Lincoln, New Hampshire. This 1.5 mile loop trail has some great panoramic views! Depending on your pace the trail can take about an hour to complete. There is no fee to do this trail and parking is also free. This is a highly popular trail so I suggest going at the break of dawn to avoid the crowds. Luckily for us, it had rained on the day we intended to check this hike out so crowds were minimal, but we paid the price with slipping over a rock or two due to the rain.
Stowe, Vermont
Next up on our New England states road trip is Stowe, Vermont! At only about an hour and a half from Franconia, New Hampshire, we now make our way to one of my favorite, and I mean favorite, parts about this trip.
As a lover of small towns, I had to take advantage of this cute, picturesque, quaint place. Not to mention I got some major Gilmore Girls vibes and with it being the peak of fall, this was perfect! Here are some notably worthy local shops you have to incorporate into your itinerary next time you visit:
- Shawn’s General Store – A great place to walk around and pick up a few souvenirs for loved ones back home.
- Laughing Moon Chocolates – If you’re interested in checking out the local cuisine make sure to stop by this place for some delicious goodies
- Tangerine & Olive – A cute little shop found right next to the famous Stowe overlook. Here you will find cute knick-knacks and souvenirs.
- Woodland Baking & Coffee – Did I mention I LOVE visiting local coffee shops?! Don’t miss this one
- Black Cap Coffee & Breakfast – looking to support a women-owned business while also enjoying some delicious goodies like coffee, breakfast sandwiches and pastries? Then look no further 😉
- Butler’s Pantry – before you head out of town make sure to check out the Butler’s Pantry for a hearty breakfast! Located right in the heart of Stowe.
Now, after checking out Stowe, I recommend you make your way down to Waterbury for a delicious treat (no pun intended). However, might I recommend you make a quick pit stop on the way for some even more delicious apple cider donuts?!
If you’re limited on time, but still want to check out New England during the fall then check out my 4-day New England fall road trip.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
This cute cider mill has all the maple souvenirs you can think of. Most importantly they have warm, delicious apple cider donuts you must check out! Make sure to grab some delicious donuts and apple cider and then enjoy them out on the patio.
Apple Core Luncheonette & Brew
If you’re looking for more than a snack then check out this place for some delicious options. They also have some tasty apple cider drinks you must try. Take it from me, I’m not fond of beer or cider, but I had to try their selection, and it did not disappoint.
Waterbury, Vermont
Now, for the highlight of this trip. This location alone was the main reason I ever wanted to visit the state of Vermont. You probably think I’m crazy, but don’t discount me until you check this place out. If there’s one thing you take away from this post I hope it’s this; make sure to add Ben & Jerry’s Headquarters to your New England fall road trip. So why do I love this place so much? Um, well, where do I begin?! I love what the company stands for, I love ice cream and I enjoy learning about the behind scenes. Plus, you get free samples during the tour, and I’m all about free food.
Ben & Jerry’s offers factory tours at their Waterbury location in Vermont. Take a look behind the curtain and learn a thing or two about how this company makes their ice cream. It is highly recommended you purchase your factory tour tickets in advance. Keep in mind tickets are released two weeks in advance so keep a lookout. However, I’m here to tell you can also buy some at the door IF they’re available. Unfortunately, you won’t know if they have any last minute openings unless you go in person. If you go, make sure to check out Ben & Jerry’s exclusive flavors on their on site ice scream shop while you wait.
The factory is only open from Tuesday to Saturday (10am to 6pm), so plan accordingly. Ticket prices range from $1 (Kid tickets) to $6 (Adult tickets). Another reason I love this activity so much is because it doesn’t break the bank and is enjoyable to the whole family. Oh and don’t forget to pay your respect to the dearly departed flavors at the Flavor Graveyard near the parking lot 😜. Definitely one of my favorite things to do on this New England states road trip!
Woodstock, Vermont
We are close to the end, but not without stopping at yet another cute, small town in the middle of nowhere! Woodstock definitely reminds me of those towns city folks often run off to and end up finding the love of their life in a Hallmark movie. Now, I’m not saying you’re guaranteed the same fate, but rest assured there’s plenty of charm for you to witness.
- Soulfully Good Cafe – take a walk down Central Street and end up at this cozy cafe where you can indulge in a delicious latte, baked good, or a sandwich.
- Yankee Bookshop – As you’re making your way down to Soulfully Good Cafe make sure and stop by the Yankee Bookshop where you will find a variety of books and cool knick knacks to take back home.
- Mon Vert Cafe -this place is another great option to having some delicious, organic meals grown from local sources
Middle Covered Bridge
Woodstock is very much a small town filled with lots of charm, just look at this gorgeous covered bridge! At only a little a short walk away from downtown Woodstock, you will find this aesthetically pleasing bridge. Walk across, take in the views and make sure to snap a picture or two for that weekend dump 😉
Sleepy Hollow Farm
One thing I definitely wanted to do on my New England states road trip was to visit this gorgeous farm. If there was a place to perfectly capture what autumn in New England looks like it would be Sleepy Hollow Farm. Located about 10 minutes outside of Woodstock, Vermont.
When you first look at it you think you’re looking at a green screen, because of how unreal it looks! It’s like a scene out of a movie 😍. I will say, if you intend to visit be mindful this is a private property.
Last Day of the New England Fall Road Trip
Now depending when your returning flight takes off, this can vary. On this New England states road trip, our returning flight didn’t take off until very early morning the next day. So with that in mind, we wanted to be in Boston the night prior so we’d be ready to go the next day. So if that’s the case for you, I recommend you do what we did.
Concord Apple Picking – Apple Cider Donuts!
Now, it doesn’t hurt to indulge in some apple cider donuts before you head back home. Lucky for you Carter Hill Orchard is located on the way back to Boston; I say why not make a quick pit stop? Stop by Carter Hill Orchard for some apple picking and, the main star of the attraction, apple cider donuts. Walk around the farm, pick some apples all while snacking on a donut or two. This is the perfect way to end your New England fall states road trip.
Boston, Massachusetts
Depending on when you get into town, and the amount of traffic you encounter exploring the city might be limited. However, I recommend you at least take advantage of being on the East coast and indulge in some delicious Italian food, and I have just the place for you 😉
Head on over to Giacomo’s in North End Boston! Hands down they have the best lobster ravioli I’ve ever had. We arrived before the dinner rush, so we didn’t have to wait at all for a table. But be warned this place typically has a long line when it gets busy. This is a family-owned business, which we all know where I stand with small businesses, so please go show some love. Note, they only accept cash. Definitely check them out if you are not allergic to seafood.
Afterwards, walk around North End for a bit and enjoy the scenery and the livelihood this neighborhood has to offer. Now we were way too stuffed for dessert, so we didn’t take advantage of checking out Mike’s Pastry and indulge in a cannoli or two. So if you’re up for it and still have room, indulge at this neighborhood staple.
7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary
Smugglers Notch
We kept meeting people along our road trip who kept recommending Smugglers Notch to us. It’s like a small German town north of Stowe. It’s a ski town filled with lots of outdoor activities, and small mom and pop shops to check out. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the opportunity to check it out, not enough time, but if you do have an extra day or to, make sure to check out Smugglers Notch and let me know how it goes.
Extra Day
Maybe there’s a place you’d like to go back to and explore some more? I know for me that was definitely the case once we finished our New England fall road trip. Honestly, I so wished we had had even more than 7 days to have explored some of these areas with more depth. For example, I would have loved to explore White Mountain National Forest or Woodstock with more time. Whatever that place is for you, I hope you get the opportunity to go back to it and explore it fully.
Map of Attractions
In conclusion…
Yes, I might love dead leaves, but the beauty they leave behind lights my soul with so much joy. Truly an indescribable feeling I only hope you get to witness one day. Meeting people from all over the world that come out to New England to experience the foliage themselves reminds me of how truly blessed I am to be able to live in a place with so much beauty. I not only hope this itinerary helps, but most importantly it inspires you to get started on your New England states fall road trip.
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