tour new england states

New England Summer & Fall 8 Day Tour from USD $1924 #1 In Value

Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Your New England tour is fully guided and includes all hotels, activities, and some meals. Happy Travels! Caravan

2024 Daily Tour Itinerary

Day 1 • boston, massachusetts, day 2 • plymouth rock, hyannis, day 3 • martha’s vineyard, day 4 • rhode island, connecticut, day 5 • norman rockwell, vermont, day 6 • white mountains, new hampshire, day 7 • portland, southern coast of maine, day 8 • maine to boston, fall foliage in new england, 2024 hotels, embassy suites logan airport, days 2, 3 • hyannis, cape cod, massachusetts, doubletree hilton hyannis, day 4 • mystic area, connecticut, mystic hilton, day 5 • mount snow, vermont, mount snow grand summit resort, the glen house, day 7 • southern coast of maine, anchorage by the sea resort, ogunquit, airport transfers, arrival transfers, departure transfers, passports & visas, weather & clothing, temperature °f (high/low) rainfall (inches), clothing tips, travel tips & faqs, are meals included, children on tour, family trips, my tour price does not include, my tour price includes, age of travelers on a caravan tour, forms of payment, many tours sell out each year, fully guided tours since 1952, size of tour group, a well-paced itinerary, caravan’s $129 travel protection, customer reviews.

"This was my dream vacation and along with my husband, best friend and her husband, I couldn’t have asked for a better time. Breakfasts were amazing, the hotels very nice clean and the scenery was just beautiful. The sights were awesome, more than I ever expected. The colors were perfect and the history was out of this world. Saw everything we hoped for plus more than was planned. The fall foliage was at the perfect time and was beautiful. I would definitely take another tour with Caravan. It was a lifetime experience. Everything I wanted to see. Thank you." Mr. & Mrs. S.B., Minot, North Dakota

"Beautiful, magnificent hotels. The views from the hotels in the mountains were breathtaking. The photo stops were great and offered all the marvelous views of each state. Sightseeing was awesome, so many things to see and do." Ms. N.K., Apopka, Florida

"Thoroughly enjoyed my first trip with Caravan Tours - will return for other trips! Enjoyed all the sightseeing opportunities and added ideas from our director, who was excellent and pointed out sites to see for pictures. Gave historical info, added stories, answered questions. Provided materials and maps and was always very polite, friendly and cheerful. We had sufficient time to enjoy the surroundings and take pictures. Enjoyed the variety of activities, films, displays. All the hotels were four to five star with clean comfortable beds and self controlled environments. Just a lovely time all around. Will share with friends." Mr. & Mrs. J.A., Tucson, Arizona

"Over the top! First time to New England and I really felt we covered so much, enough to suit everyone. I’m an artist and took so many pics, I’ll be painting from them for years to come. This was the first guided tour we had ever taken so we did not know what to expect. Tour was GREAT. We thought going in that would be lots of down (boring) time. Wrong. All the activities were well-planned and fun. Tour was set up to provide much to see. The time went by fast and colorfully. We were told by a couple that wasn’t on the tour who saw our Caravan luggage tags that we would have a great time and that Caravan does the best tours. SO TRUE! Thanks for a wonderful trip." Mr. & Mrs. E.L., Aurora, Colorado

"The Caravan value is unsurpassed. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone who has never traveled to New England states, loves history and beautiful scenery. We were fortunate to enjoy a late fall foliage. Photo stops abound on the multistate tour. We really enjoyed the history and beauty of the region. Our tour guide left no question unanswered. We loved the smaller boutique hotels and the condo with the fireplace." Mrs. C.D., Reisterstown, Maryland

"This was my first guided tour, and I feel like I hit the jackpot. Our director shared insights into history and was attentive to our needs. Our team worked together to offer us the best views and colors, even making some adjustments along the way. All our short stops were for rest and conveniences and beautiful photo opportunities. All our main activities were well-planned, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop, and the colors were breathtaking. I truly enjoyed this trip. I enjoyed meeting new people and our weather was spectacular. I will definitely recommend Caravan to others." Ms. F.L., Rusk, Texas

"Excellent. We learned so much more of our country’s history, and our TD was the best. Couldn’t have asked for better. We all laughed and had a great time. We were so pleased with everything we did. All the staff at each hotel were wonderful, and the seafood was terrific. So nice to not worry about our bags and rooms. Love your company and will tell everyone what a great time we had. You are the best!" Mr. & Mrs. S.M., Bayfield, Colorado

Why Travel with Caravan?

Excellence since 1952, caravan care, caravan's proud history, great hotels, complete sightseeing, fully guided by tour directors, all-inclusive, shopping freedom, great value, book early, how does caravan tours sell these tours for such a low cost, trade association memberships.

New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  November 8, 2022

The Best 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary (+ 5 & 10 Day Options!) 2024

Only have about a week to explore the beautiful New England region? Well, I’m happy you’re here! I’ve been traveling around the New England region for 15+ years, and I’ve learned a lot over the years, including what’s actually worth seeing, and what’s not. It’s taken me a while to craft the perfect week-long itinerary, but I’m so thrilled to share my ultimate 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary with you!

This itinerary takes all the guess work out of the planning for you, and truly focuses on the best places to see in the area. Because New England is a rather large region, you can’t see everything in just a week, but you can still cover a lot of ground. I also share some optional stops, side-excursions, and adjustments you can make along the way to perfectly tailor this to your preferences.

And mostly importantly, destinations I’ve chosen for this itinerary also factor in your time, so you can maximize every minute of your trip without worrying that it may not be worth it.

With that, let’s start planning your New England road trip together!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Where To Start A 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary?

I almost always recommend you start any New England road trip in Boston, and that is also what I suggest for this trip.

Why? Boston Logan International Airport typically offers the cheapest flights to this area, and is also a worthy destination to explore on its own.

Not only that, this city also incredibly convenient to most places in New England, and is centrally-located in the region, and therefore, is just the easiest starting point. For that reason, pretty much all of my itineraries on this website start in Boston because after years of experience, I’ve found this to be the absolute best option.

If you’re not flying in, however, and already live in this area, or are driving in from nearby, Boston is still a great starting point ( especially if you’ve never been!). But you can definitely adjust this itinerary to start from anywhere in New England that best suits your needs.

The only time I would suggest using a place like Portland, Maine as your starting point if if you plan to really only explore the northern areas of New England, like the rest of Maine or New Hampshire. But even in that case, Boston is still pretty convenient, so it will then simply depend on personal preference at that point.

7 Day New England Road Trip Overview

Day 1: Boston – New England’s biggest and most exciting city!

Day 2: Woodstock – Vermont’s most beautiful town.

Day 2 Alternative Option : Skip Woodstock, and stay an extra day in Boston, with a day trip to Salem or Provincetown if you’d like.

Day 3: The White Mountains in New Hampshire – Home to breathtaking mountain views, and New England’s highest peak.

Days 4-5: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park – One of the most charming coastal towns in New England, and the spectacular views in the park make this destination worthy of two nights.

Day 6: Drive to Portland, Maine , with optional stops along the way.

Day 6 Alternative Option : Stay the night in a smaller coastal town if that’s more your speed!

Day 7: Head back to Boston , driving along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway.

Notes About This Itinerary

→ This 7 Day New England road trip itinerary also follows a true road trip style , meaning you’ll be in a different town each night of your stay (with one exception, which is Bar Harbor) . You can certainly tweak that to your liking if you prefer to stay in one place for two or more nights – do what feels right for you.

→ This itinerary was intended to show you around all the different landscapes New England has to offer , so I wanted to include a mix of urban, countryside, mountains and coastal to show you the very best of it all.

→ I also focused on locations that are largely perfect to visit year-round , so seasonality was not factored in.

New England Road Trip Itinerary Breakdown: Day By Day

Day 1: Boston

As mentioned, Boston is the best place to start your 7 day New England road trip, not only for convenience, but because it’s also one of the top places to see in the region. As New England’s biggest city, it’s packed with incredible history, cozy charm, incredible food, and waterfront views.

Fantastic Hotel Options In Boston: ✓ Boston Harbor Hotel . A 5-star waterfront hotel that’s more than worth the splurge to kick start your amazing road trip through New England. The location is also convenient to a lot of attractions. ✓ Revere Hotel Boston Common . I stay here a lot when I visit Boston. It’s a great location that’s walkable to a lot. ✓ The Godfrey : Located in the theater district, this is a beautiful hotel that’s also in a convenient location.

My Favorite Things To Do In Boston:

→ Walk the Freedom Trail: this group tour is an excellent choice!

→ Meander through my two favorite neighborhoods: Beacon Hill & the North End.

→ Stroll along the waterfront areas – the Charles Esplanade is especially beautiful.

→ Walk through the Public Gardens – the bridge is such a great spot for gorgeous photos.

→ Eat, eat, and then eat some more. The culinary scene in Boston is incredible, and seafood here is a specialty.

→ In fact, take a food tour for the inside scoop on all the best places: here are my favorite food tours in Boston .

→ Stop for a coffee pick-me-up at Tatte, which has a few locations around the city (pronounced like latte 😉).

→ Grab some cannoli at Mike’s Pastry.

An Alternative Option : Depending on how tired you think you might be once you arrive, you could also head straight to the next destination (Vermont), and do Boston at the end of your trip to slowly wind down.

Day 2: Woodstock, Vermont

Why Woodstock Next? No trip to New England is complete without a stop in a charming Vermont town, and Woodstock is the best of the best when it comes to idyllic scenery and character. It’s also home to “Vermont’s most beautiful address,” which I’ll tell you about under the suggestions on where to stay.

Woodstock has a wonderful town center, where you’ll find independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, covered bridges, farms, and it’s also surrounded by beautiful rural scenery once you drive outside of town. It’s the perfect option for this itinerary if you’re hoping to get a glimpse of Vermont.

Where to stay in Woodstock, VT : ✓ Woodstock Inn & Resort (Vermont’s most beautiful address!). It’s a splurge, but located right in town, and the perfect way to treat yourself for a 1 night stay. ✓ 506 On The River Inn . Very beautiful hotel that’s right on the river and feels cozy. ✓ The Vesper . A cute little B&B with modern rooms, great prices, and walkable to the village.

Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT:

→ Meander through the most adorable village where all the shops and restaurants are. This part of town is entirely walkable, so park and enjoy!

→ Snap a photo with Middle Covered Bridge, which is right in the village.

→ Explore Billings Farm & Museum.

→ Taste local maple syrups and cheeses at Sugarbush Farms.

→ Drive to nearby Quechee to visit the Simon Pearce Flagship Store (they often have free glass-blowing demonstrations, and also have a fantastic restaurant!). Also pop into the Quechee Village Shops, and stop at the Gorge overlook.

→ Take a drive to Farmhouse Pottery, just outside of the town center, which is now a famous ceramics shop – they have a studio on-site where you can watch artisans at work, or you can book a pottery session with them!

Psst! I have an entire post all about the best things to do in Woodstock, VT , if you’d like more ideas and info 😉

Where To Eat In Woodstock :

→ The Prince & The Pauper → The Lincoln Inn Restaurant (one of my most memorable dining experience ever!) → Mon Vert Café → Soulfully Good Café → Worthy Kitchen

Insider Tips : → Woodstock tends to be an expensive place to visit, so if you’re on a budget, you can often find better hotel rates in Quechee.

→ Also, if you visit in the fall during foliage, or your stay happens to be on a weekend, some of these hotels may have a 2-night minimum stay requirement, so keep that in mind.

Alternative Option: If you would prefer to spend 2 nights in Boston and skip Woodstock, you can most definitely do that. Boston is a great place for day trips to other nearby areas, including Provincetown on Cape Cod, as well as Salem. A ferry will take you from Boston to both Provincetown and Salem, so you still won’t need to pick-up your rental car right away if you choose this option. These ferry options are seasonal, so plan accordingly.

Interested in Boston day trips to Salem or Provincetown? → Click here to check out ferries from Boston to Provincetown → Click here to check out ferries from Boston to Salem

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem , as well as the best things to do in Provincetown, MA if you need more information 😉

Day 3: The White Mountains, New Hampshire

Why White Mountains Next? They’re on the way to Acadia National Park (which is the next stop!), and they’re very worth your time – especially if you’re traveling in the fall season. But really, they’re absolutely amazing year-round. The White Mountains are home to a great mix of cute towns, epic mountain views, and amazing parks for hiking and scenic drives.

While the White Mountains doesn’t necessarily offer that New England charm you’re probably expecting, I still think this region is worth visiting on your way to Acadia because of everything mentioned above. You’ll find a distinct mountain vibe up this way – for obvious reasons! – so that’s one thing to keep in mind.

However, the drives through the White Mountains National Forest, and Crawford Notch State Park are so beautiful, and offer such a well-rounded perspective of New England’s beauty, especially when you combine this region with all the other coastal stops on the rest of this itinerary 😉

Where to stay in the White Mountains? I highly suggest Littleton . It’s a charming little town with awesome shops and restaurants (it’s often regarded as having one of the best Main Streets in the U.S.!), and it’s also very close to some of the top must-see things from my list above, making it super convenient and efficient for one day.

However, I have an entire detailed post on where to stay in the White Mountains , if you’re looking for more of a breakdown of the towns, and my hotel suggestions.

Hotel Suggestions In Littleton : ✓ Thayers Inn : Located right on Main Street in the heart of downtown, and very cozy. Keep in mind that this is a historic hotel, so they’re not able to make a lot of modern updates, so it’s not for everyone – but I really enjoyed my stay here and appreciated how it felt like I was stepping back in time! ✓ Hampton Inn : A nice option that’s on the commercial side of town, but very close to the highway to get around quicker.

Best Things To Do In The White Mountains (With Just One Day):

→ Explore Franconia Notch State Park , and with 1 day, I suggest prioritizing Flume Gorge, which is perfect for all ages, and one of the most popular attractions in the entire state that’s worth your time.

→ If you’re looking for a fun hike, the Artist Bluff Trail offers incredible views of Echo Lake.

→ Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway to the mountain’s summit for awesome views.

→ Explore The Basin, which is very close to Flume Gorge, and is very quick and easy.

→ If not staying in Littleton, you may want to pop over there to check it out!

→ If you’d prefer more of a relaxing day, you can opt to drive The Kancamagus Highway, which is one of the most scenic drives in the area. This route connects the towns of Lincoln and Conway, along Route 112, and takes you through the heart of the White Mountains National Forest. It’s not a super long drive, so it can be done as an out and back drive in a day, and you can also explore charming North Conway as a way to break up the drive. This is also an option on your way to Bar Harbor the next day. *It’s good to know that there are limited facilities on the drive, and no gas stations or cell service. You’ll want to plan accordingly.

Here are some posts you may find helpful while you plan your time in the White Mountains:

• Things To Do In Franconia, NH
• Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Things To Do In Lincoln, NH

Days 4-5: Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor

Why Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Next? Acadia is one of the most incredible and iconic destinations in the Northeast, and definitely one of the best places to visit in New England . Even though it’s pretty far north, it’s so worth it for the stunning views. In fact, I’ve even gotten messages from readers who were skeptical that the drive up to Acadia would be worth it, saying it was a highlight of their trip!

I’ve budgeted two nights here because your drive from the White Mountains to Acadia is a bit longer, and because Acadia just warrants extra time.

Also, Bar Harbor, I think, it’s such a quintessential coastal New England town filled with character. The town is small, and very walkable, and you’ll get some nice views of the bay just by walking along the town’s waterfront.

There’s also opportunities for boat tours from town, great restaurants to choose from, and of course, quick access to Acadia!

Where to stay while visiting Acadia National Park? Bar Harbor! This lovely little coastal town is the gateway to Acadia, and where most people stay when exploring the park. This is another reason why I’ve given you two days because Bar Harbor is also a worthy town to explore on its town.

Hotel Suggestions in Bar Harbor : ✓ Bar Harbor Inn & Spa : Located right on the waterfront in town, it’s a great place to stay for walkability to town, and if you’re looking for the best amenities and a nicer place to stay. ✓ Bar Harbor Villager Motel : An awesome motel in the center of Bar Harbor’s village, with spacious and updated rooms, and walkable to everywhere in town. I like to stay here when I plan to spend most of my time hiking in the park, and just need a cozy place to crash at night.

Best Things To Do In Acadia National Park:

→ Walk Ocean Path , which connects Sand Beach to the Otter Cliffs. This is the perfect scenic walk to tackle with a short amount of time because it’s easy, and offers some of the best and most iconic views of the coastline.

→ Thunder Hole is along Ocean Path, so you’ll pass right by it if you walk this trail. If you’re there on a windy day, the waves will crash so loudly that it sounds like thunder. Otherwise, it’s just a scenic overlook that’s still worth a stop.

→ If you’d like to tackle a hike, a nice one for a quick visit to the park is Great Head . This starts at Sand Beach, and is pretty easy (with some rock scrambling at the beginning), but offers incredible views along the way). After this, you can walk back across Sand Beach and do the Ocean Path for the perfect day in Acadia.

→ Lunch at the Jordan Pond Restaurant is also really fun, and a more relaxing way to spend some of your time in the park. It’s open seasonally only, so plan accordingly, and is famous for their popovers, and incredible views of the famous Bubble Rocks.

→ Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is one of the most popular things to do, and definitely worth your time! This location is one of the first places in the U.S. to watch the sunrise, and it’s the actually first sunrise spot between October 7 through mid-March. This is another great reason to spend two nights here. Note : Reservations are now required when taking the auto road to Cadillac Mountain’s summit mid-May through October . Click here for more info!

→ Cover more ground by renting E-bikes to explore the park!

→ Click here for more info on renting E-bikes for your trip to Acadia

Where To Eat In Bar Harbor :

→ Geddy’s → The Travelin’ Lobster for the best lobster roll in town → Side Street Café → The Stadium for popovers → Mount Desert Ice Cream or Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium for dessert

Psst! I have a few posts on Acadia that you may find helpful, including:

• My Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary
• The Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park
• Visiting Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park In The Winter
• Where To Stay When Visiting Acadia National Park

Suggested Route To Bar Harbor: If you didn’t already explore The Kancamagus Highway, you can easily make this drive as part of your route to Bar Harbor. It’ll only add about 15-20 minutes of driving time, plus any extra time you spend at the overlooks. To do this, drive to Lincoln, and follow Route 112 until the end in Conway, and then GPS can take over from there 😉

Day 6: Portland, Maine

Why Portland Next? Not only is Portland a very cool city with lots of history and an awesome culinary scene, it’s also on the drive back toward Boston. Portland has a great mix of urban vibes and authentic fishing port scenery, so it offers the best of both worlds, too.

Hotel Suggestions in Portland: ✓ The Press Hotel . It’s right on the water and in the center of Old Port, making this an awesome hotel to splurge on for a fancier stay in Portland. ✓ Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : Also in the Old Port district, this lovely hotel has cozy rooms, a great location, and a nice spa.

Best Things To Do In Portland:

→ See all three of Portland’s lighthouses . If you only have time for one, however, make it Portland Head Lighthouse. This is one of the best lighthouses in New England, and definitely worth your time! But keep in mind that the other two lighthouses (Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light) are a very short drive away, so it’s easy to see all three in a few hours at most. You’ll need to drive to South Portland to get to the lighthouses, but it’s a very short drive.

→ Take a tour! This culinary walking tour of the city is a great way to enjoy the best food, and this tall ships cruise around the bay is an awesome scenic option to get the most out of your visit.

→ Go beer tasting . Portland is home to some of the best breweries in New England, and the city has tons of them. I have an entire guide on my favorite breweries in Portland, Maine , if you’d like some suggestions 😉

→ Wander through Old Port , the most historic and charming part of the city.

Where To Eat In Portland: → Luke’s Lobster on the Pier → Bite Into Maine Food Truck at Portland Head Light → Eventide Oyster → Via Vecchia → Flatbread Company (a New England brand!)

Lighthouse Option : If you would rather spend your first day in Portland exploring the city, you can do the lighthouses the next morning on your way back to Boston. They’ll only be a bit out of your way, and not really add too much driving time.

Optional stop to make on the drive : There are some wonderful towns to explore on the drive from Bar Harbor to Portland, and I detail my favorites to suggest in my guide on driving from Portland, Maine to Acadia National Park . Many of these stops will add extra time to your drive, but depending on your road trip style, they may be worth it for you!

Day 6: Alternative Option: Stay In A Smaller Coastal Town Instead

If staying in a city isn’t exactly your speed, and your goal is to visit more of the smaller towns along the coast, well I’ve got you covered. And honestly, that’s usually my preference, too 😉 While I love Portland, and think there’s some very cool things to see there, one of the best parts of New England is the quaint towns to explore.

My favorites to suggest for this road trip are: Boothbay Harbor, Kennebunkport, and Ogunquit.

Boothbay Harbor is a wonderful, charming little town on the water, and has a more fishing village vibe to it. There’s a very small little downtown area with shops and restaurants, and lots of awesome boat tours depart from here, too.

Kennebunkport perfect encapsulates New England coastal beauty with a wonderful town center called Dock Square, and beautiful coastline near the beaches, as well as on Cape Porpoise. There are so many fantastic hotel options here, too.

Ogunquit is also very idyllic, and is known for having one of the best beaches in New England. I love the walkable downtown that’s also walkable to the beach. Ogunquit has one of my favorite things to do in all of New England: the Marginal Way coastal walk.

All of these places will make a great place to spend a night on this road trip if you’d prefer a small coastal town over staying in a city like Portland.

My Hotel Suggestions For These Areas: ✓ Cliff House on Cape Neddick (fantastic oceanfront resort!) ✓ Anchorage By The Sea in Ogunquit ✓ Kennebunkport Captains Collection (group of historic homes turned lovely inns!)

Psst! I have detailed guides that may help you decide, which are the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor , and the best things to do in Ogunquit .

Day 7: Back To Boston With Stops Along The North Shore

Why The North Shore Next? As you make your way back to Boston, you’ll drive down the Massachusetts North Shore, which is packed with gorgeous and charming little coastal New England towns . These towns are all pretty close to another, too, which makes it easy to stop in quite a few during your drive, depending on how much time you have. These towns are actually some of my favorites in all of New England.

Here are some of the best towns you can choose to stop in on your drive back to Boston:

→ Portsmouth, NH – while not technically part of the North Shore, it’s along the route, and a very beautiful coastal city with awesome shopping and restaurants.

→ Newburyport, MA – Some of the best shopping in New England can be found here in Market Square and Tannery Marketplace. It’s also home to Plum Island.

→ Rockport, MA – One of my all-time favorite coastal towns because it’s so unique and loaded with character. This one is a bit of a detour off the main route, but not by much (and worth it, in my opinion).

→ Salem, MA – Most known for its Halloween celebrations, but is a very beautiful and charming city that’s awesome year-round.

→ Marblehead, MA – An underrated town that’s very beautiful and historic, and loaded with gorgeous coastline.

Where you choose to stop will largely depend on how much time you have, and I honestly think they’re all worth your time! Of them all, I think I prefer Rockport the most, as I think it has the most unique scenery, but you can’t go wrong with any of the places I mentioned above. I’ve been to them all, and continue to visit them all regularly 😉

Here are some posts that will help you plan your drive down the North Shore:

• Best Things To Do On Cape Anne (part of the North Shore)
• Best Things To Do In Marblehead, MA
• Best Things To Do In Rockport, MA
• Best Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
• Best Things To Do In Newburyport & Plum Island

Alternative option : If you didn’t stop in Ogunquit or Kennebunkport the night before, these two coastal towns are also worthy of your time!

10 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

With 10 days for your New England road trip, you can add more exciting places to your itinerary!

I’ve broken down this 10 day New England road trip itinerary for you below, and since many of the same stops are included, I’ve done a more abbreviated version. You’ll want to refer to the above 7 Day Itinerary for all the important information. But don’t worry! I’ve included all my pro tips for the new additions to this option, too.

Days 1-2: Boston – With an extra day in Boston, you can either explore more of the city, take optional day trip to Salem or Provincetown, or head out on a whale watch tour from Boston’s Harbor.

Day 3: Newport, RI

Why Newport, RI Next? It’s only 1 hour and 30 minutes from Boston, and such a beautiful coastal town to visit in New England. Because of its location, it makes it easy to squeeze into a 10 day New England road trip itinerary, too.

Where To Stay In Newport ✓ Castle Hill Inn for some luxury ✓ Chart House Inn for historic charm ✓ Wyndham in Middletown is right on the edge of town, and a cheaper option

Here Are My Favorite Things To Do In Newport:

→ Explore Cliff Walk. This paved, pedestrian path along the coast offers incredible views of the water, and also passes by some of the mansions.

→ Tour the stunning Gilded Age mansions, with The Breakers being the top one to see.

→ Have lunch at Castle Hill Inn, the city’s best and most luxurious hotel. They have outdoor seating on nice days. You can also walk over to the adorable Castle Hill Lighthouse when dining here.

→ Take this awesome morning mimosa boat tour in Newport!

→ Explore the city by trolley, which includes The Breakers mansion!

Psst! I have a detailed guide on the a Newport, RI day trip , which is helpful for 1-night stays, too 😉

Day 4: Woodstock, VT

Day 5: White Mountains, New Hampshire

Days 6-7: Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor

Day 8: Boothbay Harbor, ME

Why Boothbay Harbor Next? As mentioned, one of my favorite little coastal towns in Maine is Boothbay Harbor because it’s loaded with charm and character, and offers so many incredible opportunities to get out onto the water with boat tours. Of all the places you can stop at on your way from Acadia to Portland, this is one of my favorites.

Hotel Suggestion in Boothbay Harbor ✓ The Harborage Inn on the Oceanfront is my favorite place to stay in Boothbay Harbor. The location is perfect and walkable to town, but set back enough so that it’s very peaceful. If you can, splurge on Room 8 for panorama views of the water (it seriously feels like you’re floating on water).

Here are some wonderful things to do in Boothbay Harbor:

→ Take this awesome boat cruise to see seals, lighthouses and a lobster haul tour!

→ Visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

→ Stroll through the adorable downtown area.

→ Take in the views from the footbridge.

→ Have a delicious lobster roll at Shannon’s Unshelled.

Day 9: Portland, ME

Day 10: Back to Boston, making stops along the North Shore on the way.

Alternative suggestions : If you wanted to skip Woodstock, VT for this option, you could add an extra day in the White Mountains. You could also skip Woodstock and add a night in the North Shore on your drive back to Boston. For this option, I would suggest Newburyport or Rockport.

Do I still think Woodstock, VT is worth the excursion? Sure do! But an extra day in the White Mountains or a night on the North Shore may appeal more to some of you, too. Do what fits your preferences the most 😊

5 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

Don’t have 7 or 10 days for a New England road trip? No problem! Having put a lot of thought into the best 5 Day New England itinerary, you can easily make this a jam-packed road trip style trip, or a more relaxing getaway that allows you additional time at select destinations. Not sure which is right for you? I’ve outlined both to help you decide.

As before, refer to the first 7 Day New England road trip itinerary option for more detailed information on each destination.

5 Day Road Trip Itinerary From Boston

This option sticks to the coast because it’s the most direct way to get to Bar Harbor and Acadia. If you’re not interested in going that far north, you could always swap the Maine destinations for Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire (just follow that portion of my 7 day itinerary 😉).

Day 2: Southern Maine . Choose to stay in the night Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, or even go as far as Boothbay Harbor.

Days 3-4: Bar Harbor & Acadia.

Day 5: Drive back to Boston , with optional stops along the way on the coast.

5 Day Relaxed Itinerary From Boston

Days 1-2 : Boston. Two days will allow you to settle in and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Alternative Option : If you’re not flying into Boston (ie, you’re driving in), you don’t have to stay right in Boston. You can definitely stay in a cute nearby town like Salem or Marblehead, and then take a day trip to Boston for a more relaxing getaway.

Days 3-4 : Cape Cod with a day trip to Nantucket. Why this area? It’s close to Boston, so there’s not as much driving time, and this is a stunning destination along the New England coast to see.

Psst! I have lots of posts on Cape Cod and Nantucket, but my Nantucket day trip guide , and my guide on visiting Cape Cod for the first time will be the most helpful to you 😉

Day 5 : Back to Boston, with a stop in Plymouth . You’ll find a charming downtown area in Plymouth, as well as the history you probably already know it for, and some nice waterfront scenery.

Alternative suggestion 1 : Stay right in Boston for all 5 days, and take day trips! Since Boston is in such a great area, it’s very easy to get around. And as mentioned before, you can take a ferry to Provincetown on Cape Cod, or over to Salem, and you won’t need a car for either of these two excursions.

Alternative suggestion 2 : Instead of Cape Cod, head to Newport, RI for two nights, and take a day trip to Mystic, CT from there. I have a guide on visiting Mystic , for more information.

What To Pack For A New England Road Trip

This will, of course, depend on entirely on the time of year you visit, as New England is a four-season climate. I always suggest checking the weather reports a few days before leaving to get a more accurate idea of what the weather and temperatures will be like.

I love to remind people that New England can be moody and weather can change frequently. Even in the summer, you could have chilly days, and in the winter, you might experience a warm day. Although, generally speaking, you’ll find it’s pretty much what you would expect of a four-season climate: A wet and rainy spring, a warm or hot summer, a chilly fall, and cold and snowy winter.

Here are a few suggestions and tips on packing for a New England road trip:

→ A reusable water bottle to reduce single-use plastic.

→ Dramamine if you plan to do any boat tours, and you’re prone to seasickness.

→ Day pack for essentials like your water bottle, camera, sunscreen, etc.

→ Comfortable shoes for exploring towns. Keep in mind that places like Boston, Nantucket, and historic small towns often have uneven cobblestone or brick streets. It’s all about comfort over style!

→ Hiking boots if you plan on doing any hikes.

→ In general, plan to keep your clothes fairly casual. New England can be fancy if you plan a special dinner out, but is overall pretty casual. Take a look at your specific plans and eliminate any extra fancy outfits that you likely won’t need. You probably won’t need any if you don’t plan to dine out anywhere upscale.

→ Light jackets or sweaters for mornings and evenings (even in the summer!).

→ Waterproof jacket and shoes/boots if you plan to visit in the spring or fall.

→ Don’t forget your camera! You may also want to consider an iPhone tripod with a remote shutter to elevate your travel photos from selfies to wall-worthy shots. This one on Amazon is inexpensive and perfect for the average traveler!

How Many Days Do You Need In New England – Is 7 Enough?

You can easily spend anywhere from a few days to a month in New England, so this entirely depends on how much time you really have to dedicate to your trip. Hopefully my 7 Day New England road trip itinerary proved that you can pack a lot in with a short amount of time.

But, that said, more is always more when it comes to time to travel, right? 😉 So, of course, you can easily spend a month in New England and not see it all. For most folks, I do usually recommend about two weeks to see New England to cover more ground, but a week is also a fantastic amount of time to experience the natural beauty in this region.

My motto is always, “Even if I just have one day, it’s better than not going at all,” so whatever time you have for your trip with definitely be worth it. I’m excited to cheer you on as you plan with however many days you have 😊

New England Road Trip FAQ

Best Way To Get Around New England

The best way to see New England is definitely by car. If you fly in, I suggest renting a car from the airport to begin your road trip. If you plan to spend a day or two in Boston before beginning the road trip, I recommend holding off on renting your car until you’re ready to leave Boston because parking around the city can be stressful. The exception would be, of course, if your hotel has convenient parking that you’re willing to pay for.

Boston has an awesome public transit system, and Uber and Lyft are readily available, and there’s also a ferry option from Boston Logan Airport to downtown.

Is New England Easy To Drive Around?

Very! Of course, you’ll experience traffic when you’re close to, or in, a city like Boston or Portland. In that case, it’s just like driving in any other city. But overall, New England is very easy to drive around.

However, I do like to be honest with people – driving in Boston can be tough. It’s an old, historic city, and not a grid system. There are lots of one-way streets, and exits getting off the highway can be confusing. You’ll be fine, but you’ll want to really pay attention, and give yourself extra time in case you get turned around. People traveling from smaller towns in Europe will probably feel right at home 😂

But once you’re outside of the cities, it’s usually smooth-sailin’!

It’s good to know that in the more rural places, you will likely drive on a lot of dirt roads, so just be careful of any pot holes and go slowly, especially in Vermont and New Hampshire.

Is It Safe To Take A Winter New England Road Trip?

Yes! As long as you’re comfortable driving in the snow, you’ll be totally fine. Chances are, if you’re visiting in the winter, you’re excited to check out places like New Hampshire or Vermont, and those two states are among the top three snowiest in the whole country. So, just know that you will experience snow, and you’ll definitely be driving in it.

But generally speaking, most places are great at plowing roads, so unless you happen to visit during one of our big nor’easter storms, driving is easy. Just practice normal precautions, and don’t drive if the snow is coming down really hard.

I have an entire guide on all my favorite New England winter getaways , if you’re looking for the best winter destinations in this region.

Is Cell Service Reliable All Over New England?

Yes and no, and it depends on where you’re going. For the most part, cell service is completely reliable, and Google Maps will be able to take you everywhere.

However, in more remote places, again like in Vermont or New Hampshire, or even along the coast at beaches, lighthouses or inside Acadia, you will lose cell service more than you think. I highly recommend offlining maps for your entire route just to be safe . I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost service while driving in VT and NH and didn’t offline maps, only to very much regret it in the moment. This is now a standard practice whenever I take a road trip, and I offline maps for every single one I take in this area.

Why Is Connecticut Not Part Of The Itinerary?

I love Connecticut! But the hard thing about it is its location. It’s so far southwest, in the exact opposite direction of Acadia National Park, as well as most of the other top destinations to visit.

Since Acadia is one of the most amazing New England locations that most people want to see when they visit, I had to exclude Connecticut from the itinerary options for the sake of time. I personally think Acadia, and the other places I’ve mentioned, offer much higher payoff for your driving time than destinations around Connecticut.

Connecticut is also a very expensive state to visit, and it’s much harder to find hotels within the budget to moderate ranges. New England is an expensive region to visit as it is, so for your money, I think the parts of New England that I’ve recommended in this post are more worth it for you.

That’s why I was only able to squeeze in a quick afternoon trip to Mystic, CT in the 5-day option.

What About A Fall Foliage Road Trip?

I’ve got you covered! I have an entire post on the perfect New England fall road trip , which is one I’ve perfected over many years of exploring this region in the fall season. This road trip makes stops in similar places, but has more of a focus on the best places for autumn color, including my tips on where to find the best fall foliage in Vermont and New Hampshire. .

What About Going Into Canada, Too?

Well, having done this multiple times myself, I can say that this is another gorgeous region to consider! But, of course, it will definitely add more time to your trip, so you’ll want to decide what your priorities are to create your dream itinerary.

Some folks decide to turn this into one epic vacation to also see Nova Scotia, and maybe Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. But you’ll need at least two weeks for that kind of trip in order to actually have time to enjoy everything. And with only two weeks, I’d focus on just Maine and Canada.

Some folks, however, decide to break these into two separate trips, with one focusing on New England, and the other focusing on Canada.

The reason some people decide to combine them is because Maine is so close to Canada. Once you get to Bar Harbor and Acadia, you’re not far from the Canadian Border, and you also have the option to have the ferry from Bar Harbor to Nova Scotia, which really saves you on even more driving time.

If you’re interested in that kind of trip, be sure to check out my guide on traveling from Bar Harbor, Maine to Nova Scotia , and my New England To Canada Road Trip Itinerary – I have lots of helpful information in those posts to share with you 😉

You May Also Enjoy Reading:

• Best Things To Do In New England
• Best Time To Visit New England
• Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
• Awesome New England Gifts & Things To Buy During Your Visit
• Best Christmas Towns in New England
• Best New England Day Trips
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Best Beach Towns In New England
• Things To Do In Boston In The Fall
• Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

Hopefully you’re now feeling ready to tackle planning your own adventure with this 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary! Even with 7 days, you can see so much of this gorgeous region and really cover a lot of ground. And, of course, if you have time to follow along on my 10 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary, that’s even better. But regardless of what you have time for, it’s sure to be a memorable trip. Happy planning! 😊

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Are you planning the ultimate New England road trip? Let me help! After exploring New England for more than 20 years, I have put together this comprehensive guide to exploring the region. The best way to see New England is by car, and this 2-3 week itinerary offers a grand tour of New England, covering the best places to visit , especially for first-time visitors.

Spanning Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, this itinerary shows you the best of New England, from quaint coastal towns to lush mountain landscapes. The itinerary is also well-paced to allow you to spend time seeing the sites, enjoy local activities, and cross items off your New England bucket list . And, the itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to your needs, interests, and desired trip length.

Whether you’re in for the full journey or seeking shorter road trip variations (I’ve included those, too!), this guide caters to your wanderlust, ensuring a memorable and personalized exploration of New England’s beauty. Let’s go!

PS: Pop this New England playlist on—it’s perfect for a road trip!

Table of Contents

New England Road Trip FAQ

When’s the best time of year to road trip new england.

New England is gorgeous in all seasons, but for the easiest driving (and best New England road tripping experiences), summer and fall are ideal.

If you want the fall foliage experience, late September and early October are the key weeks to plan for. Of course, these times of years are also peak tourist season, so expect more traffic and higher hotel prices.

(PS: If you want to do a shorter road trip or a route that’s perfect for fall, check out my 7 day New England Fall Road Trip itinerary!

One of my favorite times of the year in New England is mid to late May. The weather is beautiful, and the region’s roads and attractions are generally less busy. The budding greenery is especially gorgeous and fresh, too.

Early September can also be lovely, just after kids have returned to school and summer has ended. Expect crisp temperatures and leaves just beginning to change colors.

A winter road trip may be doable, but remember, New England can be quite snowy, so you’ll want to have a reliable vehicle outfitted with snow tires, and you’ll need to stay aware of changing weather conditions and road closures.

How many days do you need for a road trip to New England?

You need 2-3 weeks for a comprehensive road trip around New England. This is the ideal amount of time needed to cover the major highlights of all six New England states.

If you don’t have that much time, you can still pack a lot into a shorter trip. A minimum of 7 to 10 days is ideal for a thorough yet relaxed New England road trip. For a 7-10 day trip, consider my Southern or Northern New England itineraries, or do shorter segments of the full 2-3 week itinerary.

Where should I start my road trip through New England?

I’ve started this New England travel itinerary in Boston, as it’s the biggest city in New England and home to a major airport, Boston Logan International. This airport is easy to fly into and rent a vehicle. Boston is also a great destination on its own, so my itinerary includes a couple days exploring the city.

Ps: Ready to rent a car for your New England drive? Click here to find the best rates on rental cars !

The Perfect New England Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: boston, massachusetts.

You’ll start your New England excursion from Boston, Massachusetts: an absolutely fantastic city.

Boston is a well-known place that’s filled to the brim with history. From famous historical events like the Boston Tea Party to its reputation as a modern-day sports town, you’ll never be bored here.

Some great things to do in Boston :

• Visit the North End and dine on amazing Italian food . Don’t miss grabbing cannoli from Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry.
• Stroll around quaint Beacon Hill
• Tempt your taste buds with a Boston Food Tour
• Go shopping on classy Newbury Street
• Follow the Freedom Trail to learn Boston’s revolutionary history
• Join an expert-led walking tour for a more in-depth experience of the city
• Check out one of the many great Boston museums, including the Museum of Science which I especially love
• Join a Boston Duck Tour and ride in one of the famous amphibious vehicles

Hotel Suggestion in Boston: Fairmont Copley Plaza

Need more guidance for Boston? Check out my post on The Top Things to Do in Boston for first timers , and I’ve also got some recommendations on where to grab coffee, breakfast , a beer, or a bite to eat in Boston , too !

PS: Looking for a shorter road trip from Boston? Check out my New England trip itinerary focusing on the journey from Boston to Acadia National Park .

Days 3 & 4: Newport, Rhode Island

On Day 3, drive from Boston to Newport. This is a straightforward route, with about 2 hours of drive time. Glitz and glamour. That’s what you’ll find in Newport, Rhode Island. This town is perhaps best known for its iconic Gilded Age mansions . These opulent buildings were once the summer cottages of America’s rich and famous families.

Today, many of them have been converted into museums that you can wander through and admire some of New England’s opulence past.

Some of my favorite things to do in Newport:

• Visit a mansion or two. I recommend The Breakers if you only have time for one of Newport’s mansions
• Hop on this fun Gilded Age Mansions Tour, which takes you around via trolley
• Stroll along the scenic Cliff Walk
• Dine at the White Horse Tavern, America’s oldest operating restaurant

Hotel Suggestion in Newport: Hotel Viking

For further Newport ideas : Click here to read more about the top things to do in Newport, including beaches, restaurants, hotels , and vacation rentals too!

READ NEXT   15 Festive Things to Do for Christmas in Newport RI

Day 5: Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, Connecticut is a wonderful little seaside town that feels like a must-do on a New England adventure. It is one of my favorite places in New England, and there is plenty to do here: history, culture, art, sailing. And, for seafood lovers, Mystic’s coastal location offers a variety of delicious seafood dining options

Like pretty much every other scenic New England town, there’s a cute little downtown area with great shopping, dining, and activities.

A few terrific things to do in Mystic:

• Explore Mystic Seaport , a historic shipyard and museum destination you could spend hours touring
• Watch the Mystic drawbridge (the Mystic River Bascule Bridge) go up, especially while enjoying some Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream !
• See the adorable beluga whales at Mystic Aquarium
• Browse the epic shops in Olde Mystick Village including my personal favorite: Alice’s Haunted Little Bookshop

Hotel recommendation for Mystic: The Whaler’s Inn

Further reading on Mystic: Check out my tips for all the fun things to do , best restaurants to eat at , and the best places to stay in Mystic!

READ NEXT   25 Best Beach Towns in New England for Coastal Fun

Day 6: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

As you roadtrip New England, your next destination is the enchanting Litchfield Hills . This is another easy drive day, as the distance from Mystic to the Litchfield region is a short 2 hours. And if you’re traveling in the fall, the Connecticut fall foliage along this route creates a magical backdrop. To me, this area in the northwest corner of the state is a hidden gem .

Here you’ll find all the classic New England pastimes you know and love. In particular, there is an abundance of outdoor activities (hiking, paddling, fishing) as well as exceptional antique shops.

The Litchfield Hills make up a large portion of this region, and include towns such as Torrington, Woodbury, Kent, Cornwall, and Washington (very English sounding names, aren’t they?)

A few excellent things to do in the Litchfield Hills:

• Live out your Gilmore Girls Dreams. This region is well known for being the inspiration for the iconic tv show that perfectly encapsulates New England small town charm .
• Grab ice cream from Arethusa Farm
• Go covered bridge chasing – Bulls Bridge in Kent has a worthwhile nearby hiking trail
• Hike to Campbell Falls, a beautiful waterfall (this trail technically takes you over the border into Massachusetts, too, so it’s a 2-for-1!)

Recommended hotel in the Litchfield Hills: The Mayflower Inn & Spa : legend has it that it was the inspiration for Lorelei Gilmore’s inn, the Dragonfly.

READ NEXT   18 Wonderful Weekend Getaways from Boston

Day 7: Lenox, Massachusetts

Continue on your New England road trip into the Berkshires of Massachusetts . Here you will encounter art, nature, and culture combined. This region has been very popular among vacationers for many years.  And the town of Lenox is the center of it all.

Best things to do in Lenox:

• Enjoy a concert at the famous Tanglewood (these are a staple in summer, and you can hear everything from leading symphonies to folk singers like James Taylor
• Take in a performance at Shakespeare & Company. This theatre produces excellent shows; I’ve been twice!
• Take a hike on one of the area’s many scenic trails
• Step back in time at the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, a 1890s home that’s open for tours.
• If you are interested in literature, you may also wish to stop by the Mount, Edith Wharton’s turn-of-the-century estate.

Where to stay in Lenox:

More resources for your trip to Lenox and the Berkshires: 🍁 Best Restaurants in Lenox 🍁 10 Charming Cabins in the Berkshires 🍁 Best Hikes in the Berkshires

Day 8: Manchester, Vermont

Finally, you’ve made it into the spectacular state of Vermont (my personal favorite, if you couldn’t tell). It’s a fairly easy drive from the Berkshires in Massachusetts up to Manchester in the southwestern corner of Vermont, only a couple of hours. And this is another route that is especially glorious if you opt to do a New England fall road trip .

Manchester is one of the most beautiful places in Vermont, marrying quaint village charm with touches of modern luxury. It’s no surprise that it’s very popular among travelers.

Some of my favorite things to do in Manchester:

• Tour Hildene , the beautiful Lincoln family home (Yes, some of Abraham Lincoln’s children lived here!)
• Drive to the top of Mt. Equinox on Skyline Drive (or consider hiking the trail up to the summit)
• In the fall, pick pumpkins from the patch at Equinox Valley Nursery (and don’t miss the cider donuts!)
• Shop til you drop at Manchester’s many outlet stores
• Dine at the stately Ye Olde Tavern
• Pop into Northshire Bookstore , one of the leading independent bookstores in New England

Hotel Recommendation for Manchester: Kimpton Taconic Hotel

More resources on Manchester: Read my entire Manchester VT travel guide for more of the top Manchester activities, as well as these articles on the best restaurants , breakfast spots , and hotels in Manchester .

READ NEXT   25 Best Hikes in New England: New England Hiking Options for Everyone

PS: If you’re very interested in exploring Vermont, a trip through Manchester, Burlington, and Stowe make the ideal Vermont road trip itinerary .

Day 9: Burlington, Vermont

Just around 2 hours north of Manchester (taking the beautiful and scenic Route 7) you’ll find yourself in Burlington: Vermont’s biggest city. It’s also often mislabeled as Vermont’s capital, but that honor goes to Montpelier. Still, you’re likely to run into Bernie Sanders in either town!

Burlington is where my husband and I lived for several years. It’s a fantastic town that is hip, artsy, and full of good, local food . Seriously, in Vermont, you need to eat. There’s so much delicious cheese, coffee, beer, maple syrup, and much, much more.

To get you started on your culinary adventures, check out this post on my favorite Burlington breweries and bars , and this one on my beloved coffee shops. Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy brunch in BTV . We do breakfast here right.

The gem of Burlington is Lake Champlain, the sprawling, sparkling lake that the city overlooks. Here is the chance to go sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, or take a ferry across to New York state.

If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, visit one of the many beautiful parks and natural areas. Burlington is amazing for outdoor activities. If you want to get moving, the Burlington Bike Path stretches for miles, hugging the lake’s edge. This is ideal for running or cycling. You can even rent bikes right on the bike path.

More epic things to do in Burlington VT:

• Sail on Lake Champlain on the Spirit of Ethan Allen cruise
• Walk down Church Street for shopping, eats, people-watching, and more
• Hike Mt. Philo, a nearby easy hike with the payoff of a fantastic view

Hotel recommendation in Burlington: Hotel Vermont

Even more resources for your Burlington trip:  🍁 21 Hikes Near Burlington VT to Add to Your Bucket List  🍁 10 Can’t-Miss Free Things to do in Burlington VT  🍁 9 Incredible Day Trips from Burlington VT 🍁 Where to Stay in Burlington VT in 2023: Best Burlington Hotels

PS: Considering visiting Burlington in 2024? It’s one of the cities that the total solar eclipse will pass fully over on April 8, 2024, so start planning ASAP!

Days 10 & 11: Stowe, Vermont

From Burlington, head south on I89 to Exit 10. From there, you’ll take the scenic Route 100 past Waterbury and out to Stowe. When people think of the classic Vermont places, they’re likely thinking of Stowe.

It’s absolutely gorgeous: a charming town surrounded by mountains. The short Main Street and its side streets boast a white-steepled church, an old-timey general store, and a ski museum.

Simply put, Stowe is adorable. I have been to Stowe countless times and I highly recommend it as one of the premier New England road trip destinations!

Wonderful things to do in Stowe:

• Traverse the trails and property at the Trapp Family Lodge , and grab a beer afterwards at their European-style brewery and Bierhall
• Shop the adorable shops on Main Street
• Visit a haunted covered bridge if you dare (Emily’s Bridge)
• Spend a day skiing on one of the area’s fantastic ski mountains
• One of my number one tips: on your way to Stowe, stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill for all things apple (a must-visit in the fall) and the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory tour .

Where to stay in Stowe: Field Guide Lodge , Topnotch Resort , or the Trapp Family Lodge

More on Stowe: I have an entire post dedicated to Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont, the best restaurants , the best breakfast , the best hikes , the best hotels , everything!

READ NEXT   15 Gorgeous VRBO & Airbnb Stowe VT Vacation Rentals (2023)

READ NEXT   Stowe Vermont in Summer: 11 Fun Things to do for All Ages

Days 12 & 13: The White Mountains, New Hampshire

No adventure in New England could be complete without some mountain time. And this is especially true if you’re planning a New England fall road trip .

New Hampshire’s White Mountains are impressive and exciting. They’re the tallest in New England (with Mount Washington tallest of all) and offer spectacular hiking and more. There are several places you could base yourself during this portion of the road trip, but I recommend North Conway, Lincoln, or North Woodstock, as they each offer lots of amenities and accommodations, and are a reasonable distance from the most popular attractions in the region.

Unmissable things to do in the White Mountains:

• Take in some of the coolest natural wonders of the White Mountains , such as the Basin, a granite “pothole” that is found at the base of a waterfall in Franconia Notch State Park
• Go hiking! This is the #1 item on any New Hampshire bucket list . And here is a guide to some of the best hikes in New Hampshire .
• Meander through Flume Gorge. This is a natural ravine that formed over many years and now a hiking trail with a boardwalk passes through it. This is a wonderful hike with some amazing scenery. Another spot that is extra special with the fall foliage
• Clark’s Trading Post in Lincoln, an old-fashioned New Hampshire classic
• A scenic drive along The Kancamangus Highway. This epic stretch of road runs 26 miles between Lincoln and Conway and is one of New Hampshire’s most scenic roads . There are many great spots to stop and explore further and this is undoubtedly one of the best places to see New England fall foliage.
• Shop in North Conway, and don’t miss Zeb’s General Store for a taste of pure nostalgia.
• Tube or paddle in the Saco River. On a friend’s recent bachelorette party trip, we used Saco River Tubing and had an absolute blast!
• Near Bartlett you can stop by Diana’s Baths, a beautiful area of cascading waterfalls and gentle pools. On a hot summer’s day, it’s the perfect place to cool off.

Where to Stay in the White Mountains: Lumen Nature Retreat

More White Mountains travel guides:  🍁  Best Things to Do in North Conway, NH  🍁  Best Things to Do in Lincoln, NH  🍁  Best Things to Do in Franconia, NH  🍁  15 Amazing Cabins in the White Mountains, NH

READ NEXT   Your Guide to Mt Washington NH: The Highest Peak in the Northeast!

Days 14 & 15: Portland, Maine

Finally, the last state on the great New England road trip. This is Maine, “the way life should be.”

Maine is massive so there’s no way to do the state justice in this itinerary; I’m essentially covering a few of the must-see areas. You could spend weeks on a road trip of Maine alone. (See also these  8 autumn scenic drives in Maine delivering up insane fall colors).

If you do wish to explore the rest of Maine (and you absolutely should) I recommend taking a look at my epic list of 50+ Fun Things to Do in Maine , as well as this guide to the top places to visit in Maine . But let’s continue with our amazing road trip!

Stop for a bit in Portland, a modern portside town that may surprise you. There’s a hip city right on the water in Portland, Maine, and this is a hot spot for restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, bakeries , and entertainment .

Fun things to do in Portland:

• Visit a brewery. Beer lovers will be happy to know that Portland has 18 breweries all its own .
• Check out one of several lighthouses in the area . There are 5 less than 20 minutes’ drive from Portland, including the iconic Portland Head Light.
• Grab some of that famous Maine lobster.
• Stuff your face with Maine potato donuts from local staple The Holy Donut
• Walk the pretty Old Port and patronize the eclectic shops and restaurants
• Don’t miss dining at Hot Suppa , a West End restaurant where I enjoyed the best breakfast of my life (and a spectacular maple latte)
• Traveling with kids? The Children’s Museum of Maine on Thompson’s Point is a total blast!

Portland hotel recommendation : Hotel Francis in the West End

Further resources for discovering Portland:  🍁 The Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine  🍁 Weekend in Portland Itinerary  🍁 7 Spots for the Best Breakfast in Portland Maine  🍁 14 Exceptional Airbnb Portland Maine Rentals 🍁 12 Best Hotels in Portland Maine

Days 16 & 17: Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, Maine

Now we travel north to Bar Harbor. Admittedly, it looks like a far drive on the map. In reality, from Portland to Bar Harbor is just over a 3-hour drive. And trust me, visiting Mt. Desert Island is SO worth it.

Bar Harbor is the seaside town that will be your base for exploring Acadia National Park . You will be in awe over this beautiful part of Maine. Here is where rocky cliffs tumble into the sea, with iconic lighthouses at the top.

There’s abundant wildlife on land and in the sea, and countless opportunities for terrific hiking.

But the region is not just about the outdoors. Bar Harbor has lovely shops, restaurants, and extremely cozy inns . Truly, the region is ideal for travelers of all kinds. You’ll also find great camping, cabins , and vacation rentals in and near Acadia, too.

My top recommendations in Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor:

• Tackle the exhilarating Beehive Hike, that involves a bit of climbing and rewards you with unparalleled views
• Order popovers at the Jordan Pond House (delicious!)
• Take a whale watch or other wildlife tour from Bar Harbor
• Drive up Cadillac Mountain before dawn to catch the sunrise from the first place light touches in the Continental US
• Marvel at the natural wonder of Thunder Hole
• Bike the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor hotel recommendation: The Bar Harbor Inn

More on Acadia: Check out my 3 Day Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park Itinerary for an awesome trip!

Read Next :  10 Coastal Towns in Maine That are Hidden Gems

Day 18: Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Your New England driving tour itinerary is nearing its end, but you’ve got a few more stops to make—-stops you won’t want to miss.

Portsmouth is first. We’re back in New Hampshire now! Between Maine and Massachusetts, New Hampshire is home to a very small strip of coastline. The hub of the Seacoast is Portsmouth, a small yet lively city with a great deal of history. You can see colonial architecture all over this beautiful city.

Taking a New England winter road trip? Portsmouth should definitely be on your list, as they do a month of celebrations and events with Vintage Christmas, one of the most magical New England Christmas celebrations !

Best things to do in Portsmouth:

• Strawbery Banke Museum: an outdoor living history museum.
• Dine at one of the many awesome restaurants: Portsmouth has become a major foodie destination in recent years
• Go shopping at the numerous boutiques around town. Some standouts: Gus & Ruby Letterpress , Pickwick’s Mercantile , and G. Williker’s Toy Shop
• Be surrounded by books and grab a tasty beverage at Book & Bar
• Wander the lovely Prescott Park
• Attend some award-winning theatre at Seacoast Repertory Theatre

Hotel suggestion in Portsmouth: The Hotel Portsmouth

Further Portsmouth NH travel resources for your trip : 🍁 The Best Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH 🍁 Top 10 Bars in Portsmouth NH

READ NEXT   18 Magical New England Christmas Towns that are Straight Out of a Hallmark Movie

Day 19: Salem, Massachusetts

Your final stop is the historically infamous Salem, Massachusetts. And though you’ll definitely want to spend time exploring its history with the Salem Witch Trials, there’s plenty to do in the area that isn’t witchy, too.

You can hit the highlights of Salem in one day, or extend for another 2-3.

If possible, you don’t necessarily want to plan your trip to Salem to coincide with Halloween. Although the town has a distinct, fun vibe this time of year, October is also its busiest and most crowded month.

No matter when you go, however, there are definitely some things not to be missed:

• Go to The Witch House, an atmospheric home you’ve definitely seen on Instagram, and a building that is one of the only Salem locations with direct ties to the witch trials. (One of the judges lived here).
• Get witchy in the magickal shops. Whether you want something more fun and touristy, or you’re after the real deal, Salem has a wide range of shops selling all kinds of goods.
• Tour the House of the Seven Gables
• Walk the neighborhoods around Federal Street and admire the stately historic homes
• Find the Hocus Pocus film locations! (Use my guide to take a DIY Hocus Pocus tour )
• Get spooked on a nighttime ghost tour ( top recommendations here !)
• Grab a photo with Samantha at the Bewitched Statue

Hotel recommendation for Salem : The Hawthorne Hotel or Hotel Salem (they have a great rooftop bar)

More on Salem: Check out its great restaurants , scope out some of its haunted history , and maybe even stay overnight in one of Salem’s classic New England inns or Airbnbs ! Nearby towns of Rockport, Gloucester , and Marblehead are worth visiting too if you’d like to explore more of this area of coastal New England.

READ NEXT   12 Fun and FREE Things to Do in Salem MA

Day 20 / End: – Boston, Massachusetts

You did it! You’ve completed an epic New England road trip! Congratulations! You’ve seen some of the prettiest places in the country, and you did it all by car!

Days 21+: Optional Add-Ons: Cape Cod/Nantucket/Martha’s Vineyard

You may be wondering why I didn’t include some of New England’s coastal gems on this New England road trip itinerary? I did this because destinations such as Cape Cod , Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard are harder to get to and don’t fit in well with the traditional road trip format. After all, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are islands, so they are not an easy destination to access without in-depth planning.

Not only are they more complicated to travel to, these Massachusetts coastal destinations are terrific and truly worthy of their own vacations . I highly recommend devoting a trip specifically to exploring New England’s amazing coast.

If you wish to add to your road trip, by all means, hop in the car and continue the drive to Cape Cod. From there you can easily take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. And I hope these resources will help you as you plan:

More travel ideas here:

• 25 Things to Do on Cape Cod (Besides the Beach!)
• 13 Best Hotels on Cape Cod: Where to Stay on the Cape
• 10 Best Hotels on Nantucket: Where to Stay for a Nantucket Getaway
• 25+ Fun Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard

The Ultimate New England Road Trip Map (2-3 weeks)

The map below includes all of the destinations I’ve outlined above.

In need of some extra New England road trip ideas? If you’re limited on time, check out my Northern and Southern New England road trip itineraries. These are ideal for 5 day, 7 day, or 10 day New England road trips. Your own personal planning maps are below!

Northern New England Road Trip 7-10 Day Itinerary

• Woodstock, VT
• Waitsfield, VT
• Lincoln, NH
• Portland, ME

Here’s a great New England road trip route if you just don’t have time to go everywhere, but you want to see the highlights of northern New England. In any trip you’ll have to make some choices about what to see and what to miss, sadly, but with this road trip itinerary, you’ll definitely have a broad experience of Northern New England.

This one week New England itinerary contains many of the same stops you’ll find on the ultimate version (that covers all six states). But this one also has the addition of Woodstock, Vermont, which is a classic New England spot, really a ‘Currier and Ives town.’

Southern New England Road Trip 7-10 Day Itinerary

• Provincetown, MA
• Newport, RI
• Providence, RI
• Stonington, CT
• Litchfield Hills, CT
• Gloucester, MA

The Southern New England road trip route is ideal for those who really seek a coastal trip, or who aren’t quite as interested in exploring the mountains. This trip adds a whole bunch of extra stops so you can really dive into coastal New England.

It gives you a feel for the more outdoorsy areas of these southern New England states, too, as the itinerary brings you through the Berkshires, and through charming parts of Connecticut. Definitely an option for a lovely New England summer road trip itinerary.

Shorter Scenic Drives in New England

Are you just looking for a short scenic route that allows you to see dramatic coastal cliffs, mountainscapes, scenic countryside, and more of New England’s charm?

Whether you’re looking for fall scenic drives in New England, beautiful routes along the coast, or just a short yet pretty New England drive, you might just find what you’re looking for on this list of short, scenic drives in New England.

Scenic Drives in New Hampshire

The Coastal Byway (Route 1A)

Location: Portsmouth to Seabrook 

Distance: 18.5 miles 

Where to Stop:  

• Hampton Beach
• Surf Portsmouth , Portsmouth 
• Strawbery Banke Museum , Portsmouth

Robert Frost Scenic Byway

Location: Southern New Hampshire

Distance: 43 miles (The Old Stagecoach Byway and the Robert Frost Byway combined) 

Where to Stop: 

• Robert Frost Farm State Park , Derry 
• Civil War Memorial, Chester
• Matthew Thornton House, Derry 
• Town Beach, Hampstead

New Hampshire Route 112 (Kancamagus Highway)

Location: Conway to Bath

Distance: 56.39 miles 

• Sabbaday Falls 
• Albany Covered Bridge 
• Swift River Lower Falls  
• Russell-Colbath House 
• Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook

The Lake Winnipesaukee Loop

Location: The Lakes Region 

Distance: 97 miles

• George’s Diner , Meredith 
• Mt. Major Trail, Alton 
• Dewey’s Ice Cream Parlor and Cafe , Center Harbor 
• Cotton Valley Rail Trail , Wolfeboro 
• Abenakee Tower , Tuftonboro

Scenic Drives in Maine

• Moosehead Lake

Location: Kennebec and Moose River Valley

Distance: 59 miles

Where to Stop:

• Lily Bay State Park
• B52 Crash Site
• Mount Kineo
• Stress Free Moose Pub & Cafe

U.S. Coastal Route 1 

Location: Kennebunkport to Bar Harbor

Distance: 200 miles

• Goose Rocks Beach , Kennebunkport
• Portland Head Light , Cape Elizabeth
• Old Orchard Beach Boardwalk, Old Orchard Beach
• The Holy Donut, Portland
• Farnsworth Art Museum, Rockland
• Jordan’s Restaurant , Bar Harbor

Acadia All American Road from Trenton to Acadia

Location: Trenton to Bar Harbor

Distance: 40 miles

• Thunder Hole
• Bar Harbor Inn & Spa

Scenic Drives in Vermont

Location: Wilmington to Jay 

Distance: 184 miles

• Molly Stark State Park, Wilmington
• Dot’s Restaurant , Wilmington
• The Vermont Country Store ,  Weston
• Green Mountain Sugar House ,  Ludlow
• Moss Glen Falls, Granville
• Ben & Jerry’s Factory , Waterbury
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill ,  Waterbury Center
• Trapp Family Lodge ,  Stowe

Route 9 – The Molly Stark Byway

Location: Brattleboro to Bennington 

Distance: 40.1 miles

• Vermont Country Deli , Brattleboro
• Creamery Bridge, Brattleboro
• Southern Vermont Natural History Museum, West Marlboro
• Hogback Mountain Scenic Lookout, Wilmington
• Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington
• The Apple Barn and Country Bakeshop – Bennington

Location: Bennington to Burlington 

Distance: 122 miles

• The Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington
• The Robert Frost Stone House Museum , Shaftsbury
• Cider donuts at the Equinox Valley Nursery , Manchester
• Downtown Murals, Rutland
• Woodchuck Cider , Middlebury
• The Burlington Waterfront – Burlington
• Church Street/Downtown – Burlington

Rhode Island Scenic Drives

Ocean drive.

Location: Fort Adams Park to Bellevue Ave

Distance: 10 Miles

• Castle Hill Lighthouse
• Brenton Point State Park
• Fort Adams Park
• The Breakers
• Marble House
• Rough Point
• The Red Parrot Restaurant

Scenic Drives in Connecticut

Connecticut state route 169.

Location: Norwich to Woodstock

Distance: 36 miles

• Lisbon Meadows Park, Lisbon
• Prudence Crandall Museum , Waterbury
• New England Center of Contemporary Art, Brooklyn
• Roseland Cottage , Woodstock

Connecticut Shoreline Drive

Location: New Haven to Stonington Borough

Distance: about 80 miles (depending on which routes you take!)

• Eat in Little Italy, New Haven
• Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison
• Harvey’s Beach, Old Saybrook
• Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme
• Mystic Aquarium, Mystic

Scenic Drives in Massachusetts

The berkshires.

Location: Stockbridge to Williamstown

Distance: 35 miles

• Norman Rockwell Museum , Stockbridge
• Berkshire Botanical Garden,  Stockbridge
• The Mount, Edith Wharton House , Lenox
• Berkshire Museum, Pittsfield
• Hancock Shaker Village, Hancock
• Mount Greylock , North Adams
• Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art , North Adams
• Williams College – Williamstown

Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

Location: Gloucester to Newburyport 

Distance: 24 miles

• Hammond Castle Museum, Gloucester
• Crane Wildlife Refuge, Essex
• Eat at the Clam Box , Ipswich MA
• Plum Island Beach, Newburyport
• Maudslay State Park, Newburyport

Wrapping Up this Northeast Road Trip

I hope this New England travel guide has given you all the information you need to help you plan a trip to the region’s most exciting and gorgeous places. With multi-day options to choose from and choices that are great for every season, I have aimed to cover all of the top places to road trip throughout these six amazing states.

Even more resources for your New England adventures: 🍁 25 Fantastic New England Day Trips 🍁 Hidden Gems in New England: 15 Secret Places to Visit 🍁 Best Fall Foliage New England Tours Worth Your Money

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• State-by-State Guide to Fall Colors
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New England Fall Foliage Tours

Your Guide to the Best Guided Trips for Leaf Peepers

Ron and Patty Thomas / Photographer's Choice / Getty Images

With leaf peepers descending on New England each autumn from all parts of the globe, it might be easier to leave the planning to someone else and enjoy a guided biking, hiking, walking, bus, train, cruise, or even an aerial tour of New England this fall. Even if you don't consider yourself the organized tour type, a group excursion might be your best bet for maximizing your time during New England's peak tourism season.

Tours range from day trips to full-week excursions where travelers are shuttled around across New England. Regardless of the tour duration, you'll be traveling with locals and fall foliage experts who can guarantee that you see some of the most scenic spots in the Northeast. Plus, once peak foliage arrives , New England fills with visitors and joining a tour keeps the stress level low.

Many organized tours have been cut back or canceled in 2020, so be sure to confirm with individual businesses that they are open this season. If you are unable to join a tour, you can always visit the best places in New England for fall foliage on your own.

Bus tours are one of the most popular ways to explore New England fall foliage. Leave the driving to an operator such as Caravan Tours , which offers an eight-day New England Fall Foliage guided motorcoach trip leaving from Boston on a variety of September and October departure dates. Sit back and enjoy vivid views of changing leaves in all six New England states as you visit the region's most iconic attraction.

Biking Tours

If you're passionate about biking and looking to head out on a "last hurrah" trek before autumn yields to blustery winter, a number of New England fall foliage biking tour providers will lead you on a self-powered journey to remember. Book yourself, for example, on one of VBT Bicycling Vacations ' scheduled outings this fall. This tour company offers a number of autumn trips in Vermont, Cape Cod, and Maine's Acadia National Park . Trip leaders provide support and encouragement all along the way, and your tour includes specially selected accommodations and great regional dining throughout your journey.

Train Tours

If chugging along the tree-lined tracks aboard a historic locomotive sounds appealing, then there are plenty of scenic options to choose from. Among the fall's best railroading adventures is the  Essex Steam Train & Riverboat excursion, which is like taking two trips in one. Board a historic steam train and travel through the rural Connecticut River Valley, followed by a journey through the local wetlands on a steamboat. The entire trip takes about two and a half hours and is available on weekends from September 26 until October 25, 2020.

In neighboring New Hampshire, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of the most romantic trips in the entire Northeast. Different rides vary in time from 55 minutes to over six hours, depending on how long you want your journey to be. Most train rides also include live commentary about New Hampshire's history and local folklore to complement the autumn views outside the window.

Hiking and Walking Tours

Carl D. Walsh / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

The crunch of leaves beneath your feet adds to the charm of fall days in New England, so consider claiming a spot on one of the region's best guided hiking or walking tours. You can even get a head start on the new year by making a resolution to get fit this fall, starting with an inspiring stay at Jimmy LeSage's New Life Hiking Spa in Vermont's lush mountains near Killington. With walks and activities for all levels, from beginners to walkers seeking a challenge, LeSage's programs are designed for more than just weight loss. You'll retrain your mind in healthy ways, too.

The travel company Backroads leads hiking groups around the world, including one through the forests of Vermont and another within Acadia National Park in Maine. Group trips in 2020 have been reformatted and now include fewer people, so you can have a more intimate experience with nature while also staying safe.

Cruise New England's Waters in the Fall

A guided tour of New England's colorful coastline aboard a seaworthy vessel is sure to be a memorable outing, as is a riverboat trip as the leaves put on their annual show. Scenic tours from M/S Mount Washington are geared toward the best leaf-peeping opportunities, sailing around Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Boat trips are scheduled daily from mid-September until mid-October in 2020, and possibly longer depending on the duration of the foliage.

For a more immersive trip, the Maine Windjammer Association sails out on the Atlantic Coast for multi-day trips. You'll be able to travel along the scenic Maine coast and even further up into Canada, depending on which tour you choose and the number of days. Each day includes about six hours of sailing time, after which you'll drop anchor and be able to explore a local fishing village or uninhabited island in order to fully take in the scenery.

Best Aerial Tours for Adventurous Leaf Peepers

Alan Majchrowicz / Getty Images

It's one thing to pick up the prettiest fallen leaves that catch your eye, but you could also soar above the foliage, tickling the treetops. Several aerial adventures offer the chance to do exactly that. When you set sail on a fall hot air balloon flight with Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides , for example, you'll enjoy views few other leaf peepers will never experience. This tour company flies regularly from its home base in Essex Junction (near Burlington ), Vermont. All balloon cabins are reserved for private groups in 2020, making this one of the most thrilling ways to maintain social distance this fall.

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EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Filmed vignettes by filmmakers Ken Burns & Dayton Duncan that tell the stories of visionaries and ordinary people that shaped the places that define New England

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Visit Ken Burns's private studio in Walpole, New Hampshire

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Guided tour of legendary Fenway Park

Private tour of Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield, Massachusetts

The Rocks' New Hampshire Maple Experience where you delve into the rich maple heritage, tracing its roots from the methods employed by Native Americans and early European settlers to the contemporary practices of today's sugar makers.

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

Explore the best of New England on a journey through its picturesque heart, discovering new insights into landmark sites and historic homes, where country farms and nature's dramatically contrasting vistas evoke the spirit of a place whose ideas shaped America.

Classic New England lives in Boston Common, in the White Mountains aglow with autumn colors, in the general store and the diamond at Fenway Park... the drama of the rugged Maine coast... in Augustus Saint-Gaudens' studio where images of American heroes were forged, in millwheels, covered bridges, and white-steepled churches, and the rocky soil that has long been fertile ground for thinkers, artists, writers, inventors, entrepreneurs and Revolutionaries. This is, as Dayton Duncan observes, Ken Burns' backyard: "New England has always had a special place in American history and American thought. And New England has become Ken Burns' backyard – not just the place where he's raised his family and made his documentaries in the classic New England town of Walpole, New Hampshire, but also a place intertwined with many of the stories he's told: Mark Twain , Baseball , The Civil War and The National Parks: America's Best Idea . It's a distinct region with its own beauty and its own secret treasures – and who better to share them but one of its proudest residents."

Tauck Exclusive – film vignettes by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan

Exclusive film vignettes by documentary filmmakers ken burns and dayton duncan.

Get an exclusive perspective from filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan in short films that tell stories of the people who shaped and defined New England; they bring their knowledge and behind-the-scenes insights to you via exclusive filmed narratives. Ken Burns has been making groundbreaking films chronicling the "American story" for more than 30 years, with a mission to explore who we are as Americans. His films have won more than a dozen Emmy Awards and two Oscar nominations, and include documentaries about our national parks and pastimes, America's wars and wealthy families, the men and women who changed history, and the times that changed us all.

Fairmont Copley Plaza

A tour of fabled fenway park, in boston, a walking tour of fenway park.

The oldest ballpark used in Major League Baseball, Boston's beloved Fenway Park has been the home of the American League's Boston Red Sox since the 1912 season; listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it has seen its share of baseball history. Over the decades, Fenway has accumulated a number of famous features, such as the legendary "Green Monster" left field wall; the center field "Triangle;" "Pesky's Pole" in right field; and "Williamsburg," named for Hall of Famer Ted Williams; you may see some of these landmarks on a walking tour of the stadium.

Mount Washington Omni Hotel

Walk the freedom trail, great mix of history, cultural, and local experiences and the ken burns' connection added so much enjoyment with short films shown on the rides that added to the history and culture of the area..

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Hidden Gems of New England begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section  entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are frequent traveler to the U.S. from Canada, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 90 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $350 per person

89-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

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Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., we suggest that contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases for which you might be at risk when you reach your destination in the U.S. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

All of the hotels and resorts on this itinerary have an elevator, with the exception of the Hawk Inn & Mountain Resort. If you have a walking difficulty, be sure to advise your Tauck Director at the beginning of the tour so that rooms close to the public areas or on the ground floor can be requested, if possible.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Temperatures in New England during the fall average about 50° to 70° F but be prepared for occasional extremes. We suggest that prior to departure you check a newspaper or the weather forecast on the Internet for up-to-date predictions.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

For our New England tours, cool, casual clothing along with a light sweater, jacket and bathing suit is recommended. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

Valet laundry service is available at all hotels except at the Jackson Gore Inn where coin operated washers and dryers are available. All of the hotels have a swimming pool. Hair dryers are available in all rooms.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for New England tours:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms
• Reusable zipper lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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The Grand Tour of New England

15 days, 14 nights

If time allows and it is your first visit to New England, a self driving road trip tour covering all six New England states will allow you a true taste of the region and all of its beauty and diversity. After leaving Boston, you will find wide open spaces, a friendly and hospitable welcome, and wonderful accommodations. Your hosts and innkeepers will serve as local sightseeing guides pointing you toward those perfect places to enjoy the scenic beauty of New England.

                                                       Explore More Road Trips & Itineraries

Day 1 — Boston, Massachusetts

Most international visitors arrive in New England at Boston’s Logan Airport . Conveniently located just three miles from downtown, Logan’s international terminal allows for a speedy transfer through customs and immigration and into the city. There are a variety of ways to get into the center of Boston , including public bus, subway and taxi.

Remember not to rent a car until you are heading out of the city — you will not need a car in America's “Walking City” and parking fees downtown are particularly expensive. Most rental car companies will allow for downtown pick up or failing that, the short journey back to Logan Airport is worth it on your day of departure from the city. Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and the unofficial capital of New England. A sophisticated and charming city, it is relatively small and walking is the best way to get around. Many international visitors feel very comfortable in Boston as it is the most 'European' of all American cities, with distinct small neighborhoods such as the North End , filled with lively Italian restaurants and cafes; the Back Bay, where wonderful shopping streets are filled with every designer shop imaginable; and Beacon Hill, with its cobbled streets and brown brick townhouses. Spend at least two nights in Boston to get the best feel for the city.

Places to stay in Boston

Day 2 — Boston

Spend the day exploring Boston’s unique history and locale. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Walk the Freedom Trail.  A great way to easily see a lot of the city, the Freedom Trail links 16 places of historic interest throughout the city. You can begin anywhere along the route, but it is easiest to begin at Boston Common where the Visitor Center is located.
• Take A Duck Tour. The "Ducks" are amphibious vehicles that are able to travel both in water and on land. Boston Duck Tours  offer a wonderful perspective of Boston and Cambridge: see the skyline from the Charles River and hear about the unique sights of the city from your Boston driver!
• Other great ways to see the city include Trolley Tours , which allow you to hop on and off the trolley, or a cruise on Boston's beautiful harbor .
• Tour Fenway Park. Fenway is America’s oldest baseball park, home of the iconic Green Monster. Tours of Fenway Park are offered year-round, and if you visit during baseball season (April to September), you can also catch a Red Sox game.
• Consider putting aside some time to visit some of Boston's rich cultural gems, such as the JFK Library , the impressive Museum of Fine Arts , and a favorite for kids, the New England Aquarium .

Day 3 — Boston to the Maine Coast

Leave Boston today to begin your road trip and head north up the coast and into Maine . Time allowing, you should stop and visit any one of the wonderful small towns on the coast . Salem, Mass. , is known for the infamous Salem Witch Trials and is home to the amazing Peabody Essex Museum , whose collections include art and cultural artifacts from all over the world. A little farther north is the pretty artist colony of Rockport. A helpful note: most highways in New England have speed limits of 55-65 miles per hour (90-105 km/h).

The rugged state of Maine is as big as all the other New England states put together; on this tour, you will explore a little of its spectacular coast. Picturesque fishing villages are nestled together along a dramatic coastline. Don't forget to sample some of Maine's fine culinary delights — lobsters and blueberries! You may prefer to stay in the southern coastal areas, in the beautiful coastal towns of York, Kennebunkport, and Ogunquit, or continue north to Portland, a lively port town with a rich historic and cultural heritage and a budding culinary scene.

Search for accommodations in: Portland, Maine • Ogunquit • York • Kennebunkport

Day 4 — The Maine Coast

Spend the day exploring the coast of Maine: a visit to Portland with its many small galleries, shops, restaurants and museums, is a treat for city-lovers. Maine’s smaller, coastal beach towns are especially popular for their family-friendly sandy beaches, fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere. For a quintessential Maine experience, take a lobster boat ride from Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, or stop by one of the many lighthouses along the coast, such as the Nubble Light in York or the Portland Head Light . Many fine small museums that scatter the coast, like the Wells Auto Museum and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art . Freeport, Maine, is also a good day’s stop for outlet shopping in a beautiful New England village.

Day 5 — Maine to the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Today, drive west through Maine and into New Hampshire's White Mountains region .  The drive will be longer today as there are no major highways to take you east-west in this part of New England. In New Hampshire, beautiful shimmering lakes and high mountains dominate the landscape, as the road winds through pretty villages. A paradise for hikers in the summer and a playground for skiers in the winter , the scenic White Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation or quieter relaxation. A day of traveling can end on a high note with a trip to the top of Mount Washington , the tallest mountain in New England (6,289 ft / 1,917 m). In the summer, you can get to the summit on foot, by car on the 8-mile toll roador via the Cog Railway on a steam train. In the winter, the auto road can still be traveled, but only on a snowcoach tour.

Day 6 — New Hampshire

Spend the day exploring northern New Hampshire . A wonderful tour for driving follows the Kancamagus Highway between Lincoln and Conway, one of the most scenic in the USA. It also offers a chance to visit the Flume , a natural granite gorge with wooden walkways and rushing waterfalls. If souvenir shopping is on your list, New Hampshire is also tax-free and North Conway is one of the premium outlet shopping areas in the region. You can also travel a little further south into the Lakes Region of New Hampshire . Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake, offers everything from great sailing and fishing to relaxing water cruises on paddleboats.

Find lodging in New Hampshire

Day 7 — into vermont's green mountains.

Continuing the tour westwards, Vermont is the next stop. The Green Mountain State is known for its pristine landscape, rolling hills and the romance of small communities where white church spires poke up between the mountains. There are many lovely places to stay in Vermont, and you can choose to stay in the northern , central or southern part of the state. You will have the opportunity to experience the twisting country roads, mountain views, small towns, art galleries, country stores, locally-grown food and working farms throughout the state. One suggested stop in Vermont is the the state capital city, Montpelier. It is the smallest state capital in the country with just 8,000 residents. The town looks like one you might have seen in the movies, and is dominated by the gold-leafed dome of the Vermont State House. Continue on to Waterbury and take a unique factory tour at the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory and then onto Stowe , a charming mountain resort town nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield.

Day 8 — Vermont

On your first full day in Vermont, make time for a visit to Burlington , Vermont's largest city. Many points in town offer beautiful views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Burlington’s large student population gives it a great "buzz" — nightlife, restaurants and music halls are busy year-round. A pedestrian-only shopping street, Church Street , is the heart of the city with a mix of local and high-end boutiques, restaurants and bars. Burlington is also an ideal place to sample some of Vermont’s famous craft beer. Spend the night in Burlington, or get a head start on the next day’s travel by heading south. Route 100, the “Skier’s Highway,” winds down the spine of the Green Mountains, past ski resorts, lakes, and gorgeous views, with plenty of opportunity to stop for the night in quaint Vermont towns.

Find places to stay in Vermont

Day 9 — Vermont to The Berkshires, Massachusetts

From Vermont, head south and into the lovely Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts . Charming Stockbridge is the heart of a region packed with culture and charm. In summer, the hills are a hot spot for musical talent, as the Tanglewood Music Center becomes home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Summer theater and dance performances are abundant, as is cutting-edge modern art at Mass MoCA and fine art at the world-class Clark Institute in the lovely college town of Williamstown.

Search for lodging in the Berkshires

Day 10 — to connecticut.

Continue your journey southwards and into Connecticut . Stretching east from New York City, Connecticut’s varied landscape includes wooded hills, rural farmland, rocky shores, and wide beaches. Many areas have beautifully preserved clapboard homes set amidst well maintained villages like Essex and Chester .

Travel south until you hit the coast of Connecticut, where there are many small towns that are worth exploring. Mystic is a good choice for a stop. Visit the Mystic Seaport , a living history village with working craftsmen, the world-class Mystic Aquarium or the Mashantucket Pequot Museum , which depicts Native American life in southern New England.

Search lodging in Connecticut

Day 11 — newport, rhode island.

A must on any visit to New England, Newport is as famous for its seaport history and Gilded Age mansions as its superb summer festivals. The cliff top mansions are truly magnificent homes, many built by the wealthy industrialists of the nineteenth century as a place to escape the summer heat of New York City. Beautifully preserved, you can tour 11 of these historic homes from different periods in American history. Save time to stroll along the Cliff Walk , with great views of the ocean, or to enjoy the downtown fun of Newport.

Places to stay in Newport, Rhode Island

Days 12-14 — cape cod, massachusetts.

A perfect way to end your visit to New England is to stay for a few days on beautiful Cape Cod . Base yourself in any one of the charming small towns and villages along the Cape and enjoy spectacular beaches, museums, music festivals, antique stores, sailing, great golf courses, and whale watching. Spend a couple of days in Cape Cod, enjoying the beaches, sun and sand on the high dunes and long beaches of the National Seashore . You can also explore the small towns and villages of Cape Cod, characterized by beautiful clapboard architecture, faded to a dusky grey from salty air. From spring until autumn, you can take a whale watching boat tour from many parts of New England — the feeding grounds for the humpback and finback whales are found just 30 miles (50 km) off the Massachusetts and New Hampshire coasts. These magnificent creatures played a huge role in New England's history: the whaling industry flourished here. Today, whales are protected but the history of whaling in New England can be seen at several area museums. A day trip to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket is an option as well — ferries to the islands run year-round, though passages are more frequent in the summer months. The best way to explore the beautiful island landscapes is on a bike. Nantucket Town is a sight to see, thanks to its Georgian houses, old-fashioned street lights and brick pavements. Martha's Vineyard is closer to mainland Cape Cod, and a little larger, with several distinct and interesting towns. Both islands have great shopping, lovely sights, and the freshest seafood you can get.

Find lodging in Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket

Day 14 — Cape Cod & Plymouth

History enthusiasts, don't leave New England without a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts, and the Plimoth Patuxet (formerly the Plimoth Plantation). Plymouth is where the first Pilgrims settled back in 1620 after first landing in Provincetown. Plimoth Patuxet is a recreated Pilgrim settlement, where costumed interpreters work, eat and speak as the 17th-century colonists did while Native Americans demonstrate traditional methods of building homes and canoes.

Day 15 — Boston for Departure

Cape Cod is approximately a two hour's drive from Boston (depending on your exact location on the Cape), so depending on your flights, you may want to relax on the beaches of the Cape this morning or start the day in Boston. After a grand tour of this size, a leisurely morning is just the ticket.

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Celebrate the Beauty and Bounty of New England on a 8-Day Guided Tour in the U.S.

Embrace the beauty of New England during this 8-Day guided tour. Behold Boston, one of the oldest cities in the U.S. and where much of the country was formed; here, you will traverse part of the red-brick Freedom Trail, where you will see the hall that housed the country’s first-ever town meeting and many more historic sites. Admire the bronzing leaves of Vermont’s lush trees as you travel to Stowe, where the real Von Trapp family of ‘The Sound of Music’ chose to live — and where you will stay. In Montpelier, visit a maple syrup farm where you can taste the sweet golden liquid tapped straight from the trees. Ride a gondola at Loon Mountain Resort into New Hampshire’s White Mountains and see as far as Canada. See Maine’s oldest lighthouse in Portland, then celebrate your trip with a decadent fresh lobster dinner.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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How can I book flights for my tour?

When booking online, you'll be offered the option to add flights once you've selected your travel dates and room type. You can add your cabin preferences when searching for your flight. Alternatively, you can get in touch with our team. Our Travel Experts or your local Travel Advisor will be able to assist with your requirements.  

Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many guests choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour once you've selected your preferred departure. Alternatively, you can get in touch with our team. Our Travel Experts or your local Travel Advisor will be able to assist with your requirements.  

Where can I find room options?

Select your departure date, then review the available room options under the ‘Trip Overview’ section and choose the one that best suits your group. We have options for solo, twin and triple room configurations. If you a traveling in a party of three adult guests, please note triple rooms may have a fold out bed, or limited space for three beds. If you prefer more individual space, you may prefer to book a single room and twin room for your group of three.  

How much is the solo supplement?

Insight Vacations tours are the perfect option if you're traveling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. Select your departure date and review your solo travel options in the ‘Trip Overview’ section.

What is a definite departure?

A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. It is highly unlikely a departure won't meet the minimum number of guests. But if this is the case, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made. If there are ever any changes to your departure, one of our Travel Experts will contact you.  

How many guests will be on this tour?

A personal experience is at the heart of what you can expect. Choose from 2 group sizes, where you’ll always enjoy dedicated attention and access to unique experiences thanks to all groups being smaller than the mainstream tour companies. With both group sizes you’ll travel on custom ‘Business Class’ style coaches that offer more leg room and larger window spans. Choose an average group size of just 33 travelers , capped at a maximum of 40 guests. These groups offer an enhanced experience versus larger mainstream tours of 50 or more. Or, choose an average of just 20 guests , capped at a maximum of just 24 guests, this choice is perfect if you prefer an even more individualized experience. Choose your preference at the top of the tour page or speak to one of our Travel Experts or your local Travel Advisor.  

How much walking is involved on this tour?

With your comfort in mind, Insight Vacations assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction. Leisurely: Tours with typically 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.   Balanced: Tours with up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.   Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.  

How can I apply my past guest discount?

As a valued past guest, you're eligible for a discount on your next booking through our loyalty program, Global Tour Rewards. You will be asked to enter the details of your previous tour with Insight Vacations, or any of our Travel Corporation sister tour brands, during the booking process. Your past guest discount will then be applied automatically. You do not need to enter a code.  

What if I'm traveling in a group of 10+?

We have many options available for larger groups. You can select to reserve space for your entire group on one of our existing departures, book an entire departure out for your group, or our Groups Specialists can design a bespoke itinerary for you tailored to your group’s interests, and your budget.  Find out more.

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You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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New England Tours & Itineraries

Suggested itineraries for guided or self-guided tours of Boston, Cape Cod & the Islands, Northern and Southern New England, from 4 to 10 days.

New England is compact. You can drive between any two points in the region in a day; but to drive from the Connecticut shoreline to northern Maine (550 miles/885 km, 9+ hours) would be a long day.

Never mind! You won't be spending long days driving. Usually, you'll drive only an hour or two from one destination to the next.

Suffice it to say that you can see a lot of New England in a week 's travel. Ten days is better, of course, and two weeks gives you time to go into some depth of the cultural offerings of Boston or the Berkshires , spend some time hiking and camping in the White Mountains , spend a few days sailing the Maine coast in a windjammer , or get into serious beach mode on Cape Cod .

Guided Tours

If you'd rather have someone else do the planning, logistics and reservations for you, take a guided tour . Many tour companies operate guided tours that explore New England. The most popular tours are, of course, fall foliage tours. Every major tour operator seems to have at least one.

Active Travels

Active Travels , a Boston -area travel agency for those who want personally-planned, innovative travel itineraries, is the brainchild of acclaimed travel writer and guidebook author Steve Jermanok and travel agent Lisa Leavitt .

In 1995, Steve put more than 20,000 miles on his car as he researched and wrote Outside Magazine ’s Adventure Guide to New England . It would be the first of 11 books he would write on New England, working with Lonely Planet (with co-author Tom Brosnahan ), Frommer’s, Discovery Channel , and other world-class travel publishers.

Steve’s latest book, New England Seacoast Adventures , describes the best walks, bike rides, and paddling spots along the northeastern coast.

Steve is also a prolific travel writer for periodicals, writing more than 1500 magazine, newspaper and web articles in the past 20 years. He’s been a columnist at The Boston Globe, Men’s Journal, National Geographic Adventure , and a contributing editor at Budget Travel .

More than 500 of his articles were on the region he knows and loves best, his home: New England .

Steve and travel agent Lisa Leavitt , Steve launched their boutique travel agency, ActiveTravels , in May 2012, at 89 Roundwood Road, Newton MA 02464 (Tel: +1 (617) 614 9877).

Their specialty is the Dream Day Itinerary . Ideally suited for the independent traveler, these detailed itineraries include lodgings, activities, restaurants, and off-the-beaten-path special stops, incorporating lots of local flavor. Top guides take you to sites based on your particular love of art, architecture, the outdoors, and/or history. In fact, many of the suggested activities, hotels, and restaurants on the Dream Day Itinerary were painstakingly researched by Steve for his travel articles.

Steve and Lisa have welcomed travelers from across America and around the globe, and introduced them to New England, including clients from New Zealand, the UK, and Switzerland. They will book you in their favorite country inns on backcountry roads aglow in fall foliage color that only a local would know. They can arrange a day-tour by bike to five lighthouses near Portland , Maine; hire a private sailboat for a cruise out of Newport , Rhode Island; and arrange an inn-to-inn walking trip in Vermont .

If you'd like a travel agency to help you plan and book your trip to New England, check out Active Travels , fill out the short website questionnaire so Steve and Lisa can know your travel preferences and budget, then consult with them to create your perfect New England adventure.

Mention that you're coming from NewEnglandTravelPlanner.com for special consideration.

Highlights of New England

Here are the high points . Pick and choose what interests you, then plan your trip .

Itineraries

4-day boston & vicinity.

You can see a surprising amount of New England in four days from a base in Boston by spending some time in the city and taking excursions by car, bus or train into the hinterland. More...

4- or 5-Day Cape Cod & the Islands

Cape Cod 's got it all: charming towns, long sandy beaches, great dining—especially seafood, shopping for antiques. And then there are the historic islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard and if you have that extra day, a detour to experience the sumptuous Gilded Age mansions of Newport RI . More...

6- to 10-Day Northern New England

This itinerary through Maine , New Hampshire and Vermont is particularly well suited for outdoor activities , but is also fine just for scenic drives. The tour can be split into two mini-tours : a 4-day trip along the Maine coast to Bar Habor , and a 6-day trip through the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont . More...

7- to 10-Day Southern New England

Start this tour in Boston , New York City , or indeed anywhere along its route to get a good introduction to the Pioneer Valley , the Berkshire Hills , northwestern Connecticut , the Connecticut shoreline , Newport and Providence , Rhode Island , and the South Shore of Massachusetts Bay. More...

New England FAQ

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New England tours

These itineraries are designed to give you some suggestions for what is possible when you travel in New England, and they showcase some of the routes that we've found work particularly well.

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Some of our favorite travel guides, new england highlights guide, self-drive vacations in new england, touring new england in fall, insider's guide to boston.

New England has beautiful scenery and a shoreline dotted with lighthouses and clapboard houses. The surrounding waters offer you the opportunity to spot whales and the pleasant roads mean it's particularly well suited to self-drive trips.

One-time resident Dawn suggests a self-drive route through New England. It allows you to take in the cobbled streets of Boston, the rocky Maine coast, the White Mountains, Vermont’s winding country lanes and the sandy shores of Cape Cod.

Fall unfurls across New England like a patchwork quilt of scarlet, ochre, russet and gold. Specialist Alice suggests a route that will let you take in the region’s sleepy shore towns, granite mountains, clapboard villages and, of course, the vibrant foliage.

Boston offers a host of historical sites and cultural institutions, including the Revolutionary War history of the Freedom Trail and the ivied halls of Harvard University. But its cobblestone streets are compact and walkable, making it one of America’s most accessible cities.

New England Tours from Boston

• Choose from 21 Boston tours
• 600+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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10 best New England tours from Boston

Compiled by

Melissa Boston travel expert at TourRadar

New England's Fall Foliage (Classic, 8 Days, Boston Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

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• Sightseeing
• Dine on Maine lobster at a celebration dinner
• Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum
• Explore Boston's historic Freedom Trail

• Coach / Bus
• Taste Vermont's famous maple syrup

• Walk Boston's historic Freedom Trail
• Explore Acadia National Park
• Enjoy a farmhouse lunch in Vermont

• Embark on a whale watching expedition with an expert
• Smell the ocean air as you explore Martha’s Vineyard
• Explore historical Boston on a relaxing harbour cruise

“The tour director and driver were amazing. The experience was truly remarkable.”

• Visit West Point Military Academy
• Explore Lexington, the birthplace of America
• Tour Salem and learn about the 1692 witch trials

“Excellent hotels for overnight accommodations, attractions on the tour.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Explore historic Boston on a panoramic city tour
• Dine in Boston's famed North End
• Choose between JFK Library or a Boston walking tour

“I had such a blast. My tour guide was amazing and the group I was with were incredible.”

• Explore Acadia National Park's stunning views
• Discover the White Mountains and local maple syrup
• Meet your group in Boston, the city of liberty

• Explore Boston, the Cradle of American Liberty
• Discover the charm of Bar Harbor and Acadia Park
• Photograph America's most iconic lighthouse

“Interesting variety of stops from rugged Maine to quaint Vermont to historic Boston with much in between.”

• See Portland's famous lighthouses
• Watch glassblowing in Vermont
• Explore Boston's historic heart

• Discover glassblowing at Sandwich Glass Museum
• Sail Newport Harbor on the Rum Runner II
• Tour Martha's Vineyard's charming cottages

Tours starting from Boston

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