Nothing can compare to the fall season in New England. The landscape is bursting with colorful foliage, the air is crisp and refreshing, and the culture is unique and vibrant. While it may be difficult to narrow down the best places to visit in this beautiful region, we’ve created an itinerary for a road trip that will help you experience the best of New England in autumn. Read on for our guide to the perfect New England fall road trip!
1. Start in Providence, Rhode Island
The first stop on your New England fall road trip should be in Providence, Rhode Island. This vibrant city is the perfect place to start exploring the region, with its mix of colonial architecture, art galleries, and independent shops. Plus, it’s the perfect place to get your New England fall foliage fix. Take a stroll through the city’s historic East Side and enjoy the beautiful fall colors. And don’t forget to sample some of the city’s renowned seafood!
2. Take a Hike in Acadia National Park
After exploring Providence, make your way east to Acadia National Park in Maine. This stunning park is home to some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the region, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Take a hike up Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and don’t forget to stop at the summit for a picnic lunch. The park is also a great place to spot wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for moose, deer, and other animals.
3. Explore Boston’s Freedom Trail
From Maine, drive south to Massachusetts and explore the historic city of Boston. This city is steeped in history, and the best way to experience it is to walk the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile route will take you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Old State House and the USS Constitution. Along the way, you’ll also get to take in some stunning fall foliage. Once you’ve finished the trail, take some time to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, including the North End and Beacon Hill.
4. Visit Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Continue your journey south to the island of Martha’s Vineyard. This charming island is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy some peace and quiet while admiring the beautiful fall foliage and exploring the island’s many beaches. Take a hike up the Gay Head Cliffs for some spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, or spend some time browsing the shops in the quaint town of Vineyard Haven. And don’t forget to sample the island’s famous seafood!
5. Take a Ferry to Block Island, Rhode Island
From Martha’s Vineyard, take a ferry over to Block Island, Rhode Island. This small island is a great place to experience the beauty of New England in autumn. Take a stroll along the shoreline and admire the stunning fall foliage, or explore the island’s many nature trails. And don’t forget to sample some of the island’s renowned seafood!
6. Visit Mystic, Connecticut
From Block Island, make your way north to Mystic, Connecticut. This charming town is the ideal destination for a day trip. Take a stroll along the Mystic River and explore the town’s many shops, galleries, and restaurants. And don’t forget to stop by Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the United States. Here you can learn about the town’s history and admire the beautiful fall foliage.
7. Explore the Berkshires, Massachusetts
Continue north to the Berkshires, an area of Massachusetts known for its stunning natural beauty. This region is dotted with quaint towns, rolling hills, and stunning fall foliage. Make sure to explore the area’s many hiking trails, and don’t forget to sample some of the region’s renowned seafood. And don’t forget to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum for some insight into the artist’s life and work in the area.
8. Visit Woodstock, Vermont
From the Berkshires, drive north to the town of Woodstock, Vermont. This charming town is the perfect place to take a break from the road trip and explore the area’s beautiful fall foliage. Take a stroll along the Ottauquechee River and admire the stunning autumn colors, or explore the area’s many shops and galleries. And don’t forget to sample some of the town’s famous Vermont maple syrup!
9. Drive Through the White Mountains, New Hampshire
Continue your journey north to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This region is home to some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the region, and the best way to experience it is to take a scenic drive. Make sure to stop at Mount Washington for some stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up one of the area’s many trails.
10. Finish in Portland, Maine
Your New England fall road trip should end in the city of Portland, Maine. This vibrant city is the perfect place to finish off your journey, with its mix of colonial architecture, independent shops, and renowned seafood. Take a stroll through the city’s historic Old Port neighborhood and admire the spectacular fall foliage. And don’t forget to sample some of the city’s famous Maine lobster!
Conclusion
A road trip through New England in autumn is the perfect way to experience the region’s stunning fall foliage and unique culture. From Providence, Rhode Island to Portland, Maine, this itinerary will help you experience the best of the region. So grab your camera, hop in the car, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!