Fall in New England is a magical time, with its vibrant foliage, charming small towns, and cozy atmosphere. One of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the region is by embarking on a road trip. From picturesque coastal drives to scenic mountain routes, New England offers a plethora of breathtaking road trip options. Get ready to hit the road and explore the wonders of this enchanting region. Here are 10 incredible New England road trips to experience in the fall.
1. Coastal Maine Road Trip
Start your New England road trip adventure in Maine, where rugged coastlines, quaint fishing villages, and fresh seafood await. Begin your journey in Portland, known for its vibrant food scene and historic waterfront. Enjoy a scenic drive along Route 1, stopping at iconic lighthouses like Portland Head Light and Cape Neddick Light. Continue north to Acadia National Park, where you can hike scenic trails and take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the charming town of Bar Harbor before heading back down the coast to Kennebunkport, a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and charming shops.
2. Vermont Fall Foliage Tour
Vermont is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, making it the perfect destination for a scenic road trip. Start your journey in Burlington, a vibrant city located on the shores of Lake Champlain. Explore the charming downtown area and take a stroll along the waterfront. Head south on Route 100, known as Vermont's scenic highway, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Stop at quaint towns like Stowe, Manchester, and Woodstock, where you can indulge in local cuisine and visit charming shops and galleries. Don't forget to sample some of Vermont's famous maple syrup along the way.
3. White Mountains Scenic Byway
For a truly breathtaking road trip, head to New Hampshire's White Mountains. Begin your journey in North Conway, a charming town nestled in the heart of the mountains. Take the scenic Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile stretch of road that winds through the White Mountain National Forest. Admire the stunning fall foliage as you drive past picturesque lakes, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains. Make a stop at the Mount Washington Observatory, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the region's weather extremes. End your road trip in Lincoln, where you can ride the aerial tramway to the summit of Cannon Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Connecticut River Valley Scenic Drive
Experience the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley on a scenic road trip through Massachusetts and Connecticut. Start your journey in Northampton, a vibrant college town known for its arts scene and charming downtown area. Follow Route 47 south along the Connecticut River, passing through charming towns like Hadley, Sunderland, and South Deerfield. Stop at the Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield, where you can browse an extensive selection of candles and unique gifts. Continue your drive to Old Saybrook, a quaint coastal town known for its historic lighthouse and picturesque marina. Take a stroll along Main Street and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
5. Cape Cod Coastal Route
Explore the picturesque Cape Cod peninsula on a scenic coastal road trip. Start your journey in historic Plymouth, where you can visit Plymouth Rock and explore the living history museum at Plimoth Plantation. Drive along Route 6A, also known as the Old King's Highway, and marvel at the charming Cape Cod cottages, antique shops, and art galleries. Make a stop in Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod, and visit the Sandwich Glass Museum to learn about the region's glassmaking history. Continue your drive to Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod, and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a whale watching tour or explore the vibrant art scene before heading back to the mainland.
6. Rhode Island Coastal Drive
Discover the beauty of the Rhode Island coastline on a scenic road trip from Newport to Watch Hill. Begin your journey in Newport, known for its historic mansions and scenic waterfront. Take a drive along Ocean Drive, a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and passes by the famous Newport Cliff Walk. Visit the charming town of Jamestown and take a ferry to Beavertail State Park, where you can explore rocky shorelines and enjoy panoramic views. Continue your drive to Watch Hill, a quaint coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and historic carousel. Relax on the beach or explore the boutiques and restaurants in the town center.
7. Massachusetts Mohawk Trail
Experience the beauty of western Massachusetts on a scenic road trip along the historic Mohawk Trail. Begin your journey in the vibrant college town of Northampton and head west on Route 2, also known as the Mohawk Trail. Drive through the rolling hills of the Berkshire Mountains and admire the stunning fall foliage. Make a stop at the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, a picturesque garden suspended over the Deerfield River. Continue your drive to the town of Adams and visit Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts. Take a hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
8. New Hampshire Lakes Region Loop
Discover the beauty of New Hampshire's lakes region on a scenic road trip around Lake Winnipesaukee. Begin your journey in Meredith, a charming town located on the shores of the lake. Drive along Route 3 and enjoy panoramic views of the water as you pass through towns like Center Harbor and Moultonborough. Make a stop at Castle in the Clouds, a historic mansion with stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee. Continue your drive to Wolfeboro, known as the "Oldest Summer Resort in America," and explore the charming downtown area. End your road trip in Laconia, where you can visit Weirs Beach and take a scenic cruise on the lake.
9. Maine's Acadia National Park Loop
Experience the natural beauty of Maine's Acadia National Park on a scenic road trip around Mount Desert Island. Begin your journey in Bar Harbor, a charming coastal town located on the edge of the park. Drive along the Park Loop Road, a 27-mile scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast. Stop at popular attractions like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond, where you can hike scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views. Take a drive along the Schoodic Peninsula, located on the mainland, for even more stunning coastal scenery. End your road trip with a visit to the picturesque Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
10. Massachusetts Cape Ann Loop
Explore the scenic beauty of Massachusetts' Cape Ann region on a road trip from Gloucester to Rockport. Begin your journey in Gloucester, known for its historic fishing industry and beautiful beaches. Drive along Route 127 and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean as you pass through picturesque coastal towns like Magnolia and Manchester-by-the-Sea. Make a stop at Halibut Point State Park, where you can explore rocky shorelines and enjoy stunning views of the ocean. Continue your drive to Rockport, a charming seaside village known for its colorful fishing shacks and art galleries. Take a stroll along Bearskin Neck, a quaint street lined with shops and restaurants, before ending your road trip.
Conclusion
New England is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and charming towns, making it the perfect destination for a fall road trip. Whether you choose to explore the rugged coastline of Maine, the vibrant foliage of Vermont, or the picturesque landscapes of Massachusetts and Connecticut, you're sure to be captivated by the region's natural wonders. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the enchanting landscapes of New England this fall.