Ultimate 7-Day New England Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide

As the summer season fades away, New England comes alive with breathtaking colors and a vibrant atmosphere. The region is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, where nature paints the landscape with hues of red, orange, and gold. A road trip through New England during this time of the year is a perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and explore the charming towns and cities along the way. This 7 Day New England road trip itinerary follows a true road trip style, meaning you’ll be in a different town each night of your stay.

Tips for planning a successful fall road trip in New England

• Plan ahead: Fall is a popular time to visit New England, so it’s important to book accommodations and attractions in advance.
• Pack layers: The weather in New England can be unpredictable during the fall season, so pack layers to stay comfortable in changing temperatures.
• Bring road trip activities for the kids. If travelling with kids, pack a backpack which can have all of the things kids need to be self-sufficient during the trip. This is one of those road trip essentials that can help keep them busy during a long road trip.
• Car sick bags. This is a must for the unexpected carsickness.
• Snacks, snacks and more snacks. Most important thing of all.
• Hiking Boots. If you plan on hiking.
• Research foliage reports: Stay updated on the peak foliage times in each area you plan to visit, as the colors may vary depending on the region.
• Explore off-the-beaten-path: While the popular destinations are worth visiting, don’t be afraid to venture off the main route and discover hidden gems along the way.
• Embrace the local culture: New England has a rich history and unique traditions. Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying regional cuisine, attending fall festivals, or visiting historical sites.

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Day 1: Arrival in Boston and exploring the city

You are going to start this epic road trip in the charming city of Boston, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that takes you through 16 historically significant sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city as you stroll along the cobblestone streets.

After a day of exploration, satisfy your taste buds with a delicious lobster roll or a bowl of creamy New England clam chowder. Boston is renowned for its seafood, and there are plenty of waterfront restaurants offering fresh and delectable dishes. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert to indulge in a slice of Boston cream pie, a local specialty.

Day 2: Journey from Boston to Woodstock, Vermont (2 hrs 30 mins)

On day two, leave the bustling city behind and head towards the serene town of Woodstock, Vermont. As you drive through the winding roads of New England, you will see the landscape transforms into a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard. The rolling hills are adorned with colorful foliage, creating a breathtaking panorama that will leave you in awe.

Some awesome things to do in Woodstock, VT are:

• Billings Farm & Museum
• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park 
• Sugarbush Farm
• Three covered bridges (Lincoln, Middle & Taftsville)

Day 3 & 4: Discovering the scenic White Mountains of New Hampshire (1 hr 30 mins from Woodstock,VT)

As you continue the journey through New England, make your way to the stunning White Mountains of New Hampshire next. Home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region, this area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore miles of trails that wind through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to majestic peaks.

Things to do in White Mountains, New Hampshire over the 2 days are:

• Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park, 2.2 miles moderately challenged loop hike.
• Artist’s Bluff. This is a short 1.5 mile steep walk up to a stunning hilltop that overlooks Echo lake, and the fall foliage here is insane! (We opted to do a sunrise hike the next day before heading to Acadia National Park)
• Echo lake beach.
• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. This tramway takes you to the summit of Cannon Mountain, and from there, you can take in the incredible views of the sweeping mountain vistas, explore some really nice trails, enjoy a meal at the cafe, visit the observation deck and see beyond New Hampshire, into Maine, Vermont, New York and Canada on a clear day.
• Lake Wiinipesaukee. It’s the largest lake in New Hampshire and a great way to see it is rent a canoe or kayak and explore it while admiring the incredible fall colors.
• Table Rock trail, Dixville Notch State Park, 1.5 miles round trip but a relatively steep 700 ft. climb. This gives you epic 360- degree views over Dixville Notch from above.
• Kancamagus Highway. For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, one of the most picturesque routes in New England. As you wind your way through the forest, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas, sparkling rivers, and charming covered bridges. Make a stop at Sabbaday Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls that will leave you mesmerized by their beauty.

Day 5: Acadia National Park (4 hrs 30 mins from Lincoln, NH)

On day five, venture further north to the picturesque state of Maine, where you will discover the beauty of Acadia National Park. Known for its rugged coastline, pristine lakes, and granite peaks, Acadia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Begin your exploration of the park with a visit to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the east coast of the United States. As you ascend to the summit, the panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean will take your breath away. If you’re an early riser, make sure to catch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, as it is one of the first places in the country to see the first light of day.

After taking in the majestic vistas, head to Jordan Pond, a tranquil lake surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque forests. Embark on a leisurely hike along the Jordan Pond Path, which offers stunning views of the lake and the iconic twin peaks known as “The Bubbles”. Stop by the Jordan Pond House for a taste of their famous popovers, a delightful treat that has been a tradition for over a century.

Explore the park’s rugged coastline by taking a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road.

Tip: If you are travelling with little kids, stop by a visitor center to obtain a Junior Ranger booklet for them. Have them complete the activities listed in the booklet and once you turn in your completed booklet, you can get sworn in by a park ranger and get your junior ranger badge.

Learn more about the National Junior Ranger program.

Stay at Bar Harbor! This lovely little coastal town is the gateway to Acadia, and where most people stay when exploring the park

Day 6: Portland, Maine (2 hrs 30 mins from Bar Harbor, ME)

On day six, make your way back to the starting point. On the drive toward Boston stop by at vibrant city of Portland, Maine. Known for its thriving food scene and lively arts community, this city offers a perfect blend of urban charm and coastal beauty. Explore the three Light houses, Portland Head Light, Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light and indulge in delicious seafood at the local restaurants, the food scene here is incredible. Take a walk along the scenic Eastern Promenade, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Casco Bay and its islands or you can also get into the water, Portland has tons of boat tours along Casco Bay that are incredibly scenic.

Day 7: Returning to Boston and Recap and highlights of the road trip (2 hrs)

As your road trip comes to an end, make your way back to Boston. Take this opportunity to revisit some of your favorite spots in the city or explore new attractions. Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had, filled with stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. Capture the memories in photographs and share your adventures with friends and family.

And that’s A Wrap On The Best 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary. Happy Planning!