bus tours to new england in the fall

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Colors of New England

About this tour.

Be charmed by the colors of New England from the heart of historic Boston to the farms, mountains, and coast of the North. Begin your journey in historic Boston. Explore Woodstock, Vermont, a quintessential New England village. Watch apples transform into cider before your eyes at Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Learn about the maple sugaring industry of New England on a farm tour of the Rocks Estate. Relax as you cruise along Lake Winnipesaukee and admire the splendid views. Dig in at a traditional New England lobster dinner. Travel up the winding Auto Road to see the stunning views from the summit of Mount Washington. Marvel at Maine’s dramatic coast and discover the seaside communities of Portland and Kennebunkport. This is New England at its finest.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations
• 1 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Simon Pearce
• Quechee Gorge

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

1 - Light & Leisurely

Travel Style

Fall Foliage Tours

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Drive the Kancamagus highway, known to have some of the best foliage views.

Embark on a cruise of stunning Lake Winnipesaukee.

Travel along Auto Road and enjoy views from the summit of Mount Washington.

Cultural Experiences:

Explore the Rocks Estate and learn the importance of maple sugaring in the region on a farm tour.

Learn the history of the famous von Trapp Family during a visit to their lodge in Stowe.

View the most photographed lighthouse in America, the Portland Head Light.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste the essence of New England at a dinner featuring succulent fresh lobster.

Enjoy lunch prepared from fresh, local ingredients at the Simon Pearce restaurant.

Watch apple cider made the old-fashioned way.

• Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Trapp Family Lodge
• Rocks Estate
• North Conway
• Kancamagus Highway
• Choice on Tour: Nature Walk or Lecture with Local Naturalist
• Mount Washington
• Lake Winnipesaukee Cruise
• Kennebunkport
• Lobster Dinner

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Marriott Copley Place Boston

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Marriott Copley Place Boston From $240 per night

Marriott Copley Place Boston

Stoweflake mountain resort, white mountain hotel & resort.

Courtyard Portland Downtown/Waterfront

Need more information.

We're here to help

Call us toll free at 800.340.5158

Trip reviews.

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

Filter Reviews: All

Fellow Travelers on Tour

Related blog content, 24 hours in south dakota, america's music cities tour just got an upgrade, keep the summer spirit alive with collette’s season 106 sale, awe-inspiring alaska: beyond cruising, let the national parks of utah pull you in, quick tips for spotting the northern lights in finland, alaska, and iceland, similar tours.

Pacific Northwest & California featuring Washington, Oregon and California

Islands of New England

America's National Parks & Denver

National parks of america.

Spotlight on New York City

Canyon Country featuring Arizona & Utah

Not seeing the date you want? We can help!

Call our Customer Care Team to inquire about dates beyond what's currently listed and to make an advanced reservation. You can find our full terms and conditions here .

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

Find a Travel Agency

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

View or download.

New England Summer & Fall 8 Day Tour from USD $1695 #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 Bike Tours

New York Driving Tours

Drives in Northern California

Drives in Western Pennsylvania

Picnic Blankets

Picnic Baskets

Point-and-Shoot Cameras

Fleece Jackets

Lightweight Jackets

Travel Coffee Mugs

State-by-State Guide to Fall Colors

Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the US

How to See Peak New England Color

Best National Parks for Fall Foliage

15 Epic Fall Foliage Drives with Kids

New England Destinations for Fall Colors

Connecticut Fall Foliage

Massachusetts Fall Foliage

Long Island Fall Foliage

New York City Fall Foliage

Minnesota Fall Foliage

Wisconsin Fall Foliage

Colorado Fall Foliage

California Fall Foliage

Pacific Northwest Fall Foliage

Fall Foliage in the Washington, DC, Area

Fall Foliage in the Southeast

Arkansas Fall Foliage

Georgia Fall Foliage

Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the Canada

New England Guided Tours

New England Driving Tours

New England Train Tours

New England Bus Tours

New England Fall Foliage Bus Tours 2020

Hop Aboard a Motorcoach for a Tour of New England's Autumn Highlights

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism

The safest way to view the vivid fall foliage on an autumn drive through New England is to let someone else do the driving. Thankfully, there are several tour operators who do just that. Bus tours through the area range from a day trip up to a full week on the road, stopping nightly in charming hotels or bed and breakfasts sprinkled throughout the New England countryside. Leaving the itinerary to a tour guide also means you can take the guesswork out of where to go and when , since they'll know exactly where to catch the peak autumn foliage.

Of all the ways to see autumn's highlights on a guided tour , bus trips offer the most comfort and some of the best opportunities for bonding with fellow leaf peepers.

Keep in mind that several tour companies have canceled organized group tours for fall 2020. But if you can't book a bus tour, that doesn't mean you can't visit the most scenic places in New England on your own.

Celebrate Connecticut

You don’t have to venture beyond Connecticut’s borders to spy dramatic fall colors. Celebrate Connecticut is a travel consultant that helps visitors plan out the perfect Connecticut itinerary. Instead of joining a guided tour, let travel planners know what you want to see, who you're traveling with, and how long you'll be there, then just sit back and let them do the rest. They'll map out the best places to see fall foliage in the state based on when you're visiting, in addition to recommending the best places to stay and eat, and arrange transportation if needed.

Bluebird Guided Tours

Tours by Bluebird Guided Tours are canceled in 2020.

Bluebird Guided Tours company offers a New York and New England trip available for would-be leaf peepers. Fly to New York City on your own, then set out for a week of memorable experiences in Newport, Rhode Island; Boston, Massachusetts; Manchester, Vermont; and Niagara Falls. The bus route takes you through every New England state except Maine, but you'll also travel the width of scenic upstate New York .

One-Day Fall Foliage Bus Trip from Boston

candylouhou / Getty Images

The One-Day Fall Foliage Bus Trip is canceled in 2020.

Set out from Boston on a nine-hour bus tour of the New England countryside this fall. Cute towns, apple orchards, mountain scenes, a farm store visit, and lunch in New Hampshire are among the sights and experiences you'll enjoy. Book your seat on the Fall Foliage Sightseeing & Lunch Tour via Viator.com, priced from $115 per person including complimentary hotel pick-up.

Caravan Tours

Tours by Caravan Tours are canceled in 2020.

Caravan Tours offers eight-day  New England Fall Foliage  escorted bus tours departing from Boston on many dates throughout September and October. You'll see lovely leaves in all six New England states, along with many of New England's notable attractions and destinations.

Go Collette

Northeast tours by Go Collette are canceled in 2020.

Go Collette offers a number of bus excursions each fall to New England destinations. The eight-day Colors of New England tour through four states includes quintessential fall activities like apple cider making and regional treasures like Main seaside views.

Go Ahead Tours

Tours through New England with Go Ahead Tours are canceled in 2020.

Departures sell out fast for Go Ahead's Vermont to Massachusetts Fall Foliage Tour , which starts in Burlington, Vermont , and takes you to New England's cherished landmarks along byways festooned with fall color. On this eight-day bus trip (with optional Boston extension), you'll experience fall's best tastes and see famous attractions in four states including Boston's Freedom Trail and the Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory. 

Holiday Tours

Tous in New England by Holiday Tours are canceled in 2020.

North Carolina-based Holiday Tours offers a seven-day  Rail & Sail New England Fall Foliage  bus tour that takes passengers on some of the best New England foliage stops, including the famed Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. It also includes scenic train trips and boat excursions for prime leaf viewing. 

New England tours offered by Cosmos are canceled in 2020.

Departing from and returning to Boston, the eight-day  Classic New England tour offered by Cosmos features comfortable motorcoach transportation and experiences in all six New England states, including an optional whale watch, an authentic lobster bake add-on excursion, a visit to Vermont's oldest sugarhouse, and more.

Northeast Unlimited Tours

Fall tours with Northeast Unlimited Tours are canceled in 2020.

Northeast Unlimited makes an eight-day  Taste of New England  escorted bus tour of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Tours depart from and return to Boston, so you can fly in from anywhere and join in the fun.

Tauck tours are canceled for all of New England in 2020.

The British tour company Tauck keeps travelers on the go throughout the fall foliage season in New England with a number of motor coach  itineraries  to consider, including the Grand New England tour featuring insights from filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan. Departures from Boston are available.

Gunther Charters & Tours

All fall tours by Gunter Charters & Tours are canceled in 2020.

The Maryland-based bus tour company Gunther Charters & Tours offers a five-day New England Fall Foliage tour, which includes stunning views and memorable sights in Vermont and New Hampshire. Other seasonal tours include the Coastal New England Ghosts, Witches, and Gravestones tour.

New England Fall Foliage Cruises and Boat Tours

New England Fall Weekend Events 2020

New England Fall Foliage Tours

7 Beautiful New England Fall Foliage Train Tours

The 11 Best Fall Day Trips From Boston

New England Fall Festivals

New England Fall Foliage Bike Tours

12 Best Things to Do in New England in the Winter

January in New England: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in the USA

New England Gay Weekend Getaways - Best Weekend Trips from Boston

Your Trip to Maine: The Complete Guide

New England's 10 Most Iconic Outdoor Landmarks

November in New England: Weather, What to Pack and What to See

Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

New England Fall Foliage Chairlift Sky Rides

Part of the TTC Family of Brands

GET A QUOTE

DESTINATIONS

WAYS TO TRAVEL

SPECIAL OFFERS

1 888 680 1241

New England's Fall Foliage

780 Independent Reviews

Classic Group

Choose Your Group Size

Seasonal Sale

Reserve with a deposit starting from $200

DATES & PRICING

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Choose when you want to travel

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.

View Itinerary

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

MAP & ITINERARY

Start Boston, United States of America. End Boston, United States of America.

Download Itinerary

Print Itinerary

EXPAND ALL DAYS

Choose to travel in a Classic or Small Group.

Change view

Selected Version

This tour version has an average of 33 guests and no more than 40.

Small Group

This tour version has no more than 24 guests.

TRAVELING IN A GROUP OF 10+?

Customize this tour for a group >

Our specialists can design a bespoke itinerary for you. You'll experience the Insight Difference with a passionate Travel Director, all tailored to your group's personal interests. 

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

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

SEARCH FOR ANOTHER TOUR

#insightvacations.

Discover Inspiring, Magical Moments Captured by Our Guests in Destinations Around the World

EXPLORE WITH INSIGHT

UK and Ireland

USA and Canada

Latin America

North Africa

TOUR STYLES

Discovery Journeys

Regional Journeys

Country Roads

Domestic Escapes

Special Interest Tours

Get A Quote

Request A Brochure

Travel Insurance

The Insightful Blog

Privacy Policy

Booking Conditions

Tour Deposit Level

Travel Updates

My Personal Information

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

© Insight Vacations 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Cookie Policy

Emergency Banner Component

New England Fall Foliage Tours

At Tauck, we've been bringing our guests to the best of New England since our very first tours in 1925. While we find beauty there in every season, there's just something undeniably magical about the fall – when the days are crisp, the nights are cool, and the leaves transform the landscape into a picturesque work of art that you've got to see to believe.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

WELCOME TO AUTUMN IN NEW ENGLAND

If you've never experienced the changing of the leaves in person, pictures simply don't do it justice. Spectacular hues of red, orange, yellow and gold as far as the eye can see. It's no wonder people come from all over the world to witness it. Let us put you in the front row – by land or by sea – for one of nature's greatest shows, including stops at must-see sites and historical gems from Boston and the Cape to Portland and Montpelier.

Remembering our resident "foliologist".

For half a century, Scotty Johnston wore several different hats at Tauck – but the one we were most fond of was his title of resident Tauck "Foliologist." It warms our hearts to go back in time and share with you one of Scotty's foliage reports, accompanied by a beautiful video of Autumn in New England.

View Spectacular Foliage Footage

Boston, Massachusetts

History lives around every corner in the "Cradle of Liberty," the birthplace of the American Revolution, with landmark sites along the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Back Bay, Quincy Market and more.

Visit Boston by Small Ship

Stowe, Vermont

Tucked in the Green Mountains, Stowe and the surrounding area are known for their spectacular fall foliage, scenic drives and outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for leaf-peeping.

Visit on Grand New England

White Mountains, NH

White mountains, new hampshire.

The region's hardwood forests burst into vibrant colors in the autumn months, drawing leaf-peepers from all over the world – while the cooler fall temperatures are ideal for hiking, biking and exploring.

Visit on Hidden Gems of New England

Journey Collection

Experience the Fall Foliage

Search Again

{{ title }}

{{shortDescription}}

{{longDescription}}

{{priceFrom}}

From Price, Per Person

Price shown is the lowest price per person, double, on most journeys.

No Tours Match Your Room Configuration

Itinerary Related Content

Take a look below for other tours

Please enter a valid search term

No results found for “ ”.

Make sure your words are spelled correctly or use less or different words.

We can't find any itineraries that match your departure date. Try broadening your search by choosing a different year or month.

The keyword's results do not contain the selected date. Please reset the date filter or choose a different date.

Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

Travel Experiences that are as memorable as the places...

Leave Your Worries At Home

Tauck takes on all of details of travel – all of the planning, all of the logistics...

One Upfront Price

Get what you pay for and then some; no hidden costs, no options sold...

Guided by the Best

Your journey is fully guided by our expert Tauck Directors known for personal, thoughtful service...

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

• Destinations
• Antarctica & the Arctic
• Australia & New Zealand
• Israel & Jordan
• Latin America
• United States
• Tours & Cruises
• Exclusive Partnership
• Family Journeys
• Guest Favorites
• River Cruises
• Small Groups
• Small Ship Cruises
• Awards and Accolades
• Our History
• Tauck Impact
• The Tauck Difference
• The Taucker Blog
• About Tauck
• Media Center
• Tutorial Video
• Agent Connect
• Register Your Agency
• General Information
• Travel Protection
• Newsletter Sign Up
• Order an eGift Card
• Request a Brochure
• Tauck Forums
• Travel and Health
• Travel Updates

Sign Up to Subscribe to Our Emails

Favorite New England Fall Foliage Tours

Ready for some leaf-peeping but not sure where to go? One of these guided New England fall foliage tours may be just what you need.

By Ian Aldrich

Jul 28 2022

Quiet country roads and idyllic Vermont farms like this one are often on the itinerary of a New England fall foliage tour.

One of the best ways to experience the autumn landscape is via one of the many New England fall foliage tours that roll through the region each year. For a story in  Yankee ’s September/October 2017 issue ( “Leaf People” ), I took a New England fall foliage tour with Tauck Tours, which has been leading guided visits to the region in fall for more than nine decades. Tauck is considered by many to offer the best New England fall foliage tours, but it’s far from the only company with such excursions. Read on for a selection of great New England fall foliage tour operators.

Tauck Tours

It’s not an overstatement to say Tauck invented the New England foliage tour because, well, it sort of did. In 1925, Arthur Tauck, a 27-year-old traveling salesman, decided to share the beauty he often discovered while motoring along the region’s back roads. He advertised his guided tour in a local New Jersey paper, pricing his one-week excursion, which included all meals and accommodations, for $69. Six people signed on for the journey, and a business was born.

Today, Connecticut-based Tauck leads tours all over the world. But its New England fall foliage tours continue to be one of its biggest draws. Tauck offers several choices. Its 12-day “Grand New England” provides an in-depth portrait of the region, from Revolutionary War sites in Concord and Lexington , Massachusetts, to a weather lesson atop New Hampshire’s Mount Washington , to a full-on lobster experience in Portland, Maine. A more condensed version of this journey is offered in Tauck’s eight-day “Hidden Gems of New England” tour.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

See more: leaf people | autumn in new england through a leaf-peeper’s eyes.

This tour operator’s nine-day New England fall foliage tour begins in Boston and includes visits to the Martha’s Vineyard villages of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs , the southern Maine coast towns of York and Ogunquit , the mansions of Newport, Rhode Island , Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire, and the White Mountain National Forest. Another ten-day tour option includes the Vermont side of Lake Champlain.

Caravan Tours

On this eight-day guided journey, travelers hit many New England highlights: Boston, Plymouth Rock , Martha’s Vineyard, the Newport mansions, Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, the Norman Rockwell Museum in the Berkshires, picture-perfect Woodstock, Vermont , and a Maine lobster dinner.

Northeast Unlimited Tours

Over the course of eight autumn-themed days, travelers on the “Taste of New England” tour cover a lot of ground and sample a lot of delicious local food, from Boston and the Berkshires to the historic downtown of Manchester, Vermont , to a trip up Mount Washington on the famed Cog Railway and a lobster cruise in Maine.

Know of any New England fall foliage tours we missed? Let us know!

This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE: 10 Places to Visit in New England in Fall Prettiest Fall Foliage Villages in Vermont The Ultimate New England Fall Foliage Road Trip

Ian Aldrich

Ian Aldrich is the Senior Features Editor at Yankee magazine, where he has worked for more for nearly two decades. As the magazine’s staff feature writer, he writes stories that delve deep into issues facing communities throughout New England. In 2019 he received gold in the reporting category at the annual City-Regional Magazine conference for his story on New England’s opioid crisis. Ian’s work has been recognized by both the Best American Sports and Best American Travel Writing anthologies. He lives with his family in Dublin, New Hampshire.

8 Best Fall Bus Tours Of New England

By: Author Values Bus Tour

Posted on Last updated: September 14, 2023

Are you looking for a fun way to see New England during the fall? Consider taking fall bus tours of New England! These tours are a great way to see all the sights without having to worry about driving. Plus, you can meet new people and learn about the history and culture of New England .

Here are some of the best bus tours for seeing New England in the fall.

Table of Contents

What Are Some Of The Best Places To Visit In New England During The Fall?

Fall is a magical time in New England. The leaves change color, the air gets crisp, and the days get shorter. There are plenty of great places to visit in New England during the fall, but here are a few of our favorites. Acadia National Park is a must-see in the fall.

The park is located on Maine’s Mount Desert Island and is home to beautiful hiking trails, rocky beaches, and stunning ocean views.

If you’re looking for a more urban fall experience, Boston is the place to be. The city comes alive in October with the annual Boston Marathon and the Head of the Charles Regatta.

And of course, no trip to New England in the fall would be complete without a visit to see the leaves changing color in Vermont.

The Green Mountain State is full of small towns, farmers’ markets, and covered bridges. So whether you’re finding a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, New England has something for you in the fall.

See Related : Best Bus Tours To Sedona From Phoenix

Autumn in New England is a magical time when the leaves turn to gold and crimson, and the air takes on a crisp, clean scent. For many, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. If you’re looking to experience all that New England has to offer this fall, there’s no better way than by taking a bus tour.

From exploring the coast of Maine to marveling at the foliage in Vermont, these eight bus tours are sure to give you an unforgettable autumn experience .

See Related: 7 Best Bus Tours From Maine

1. Coastal Maine

From Portland to Kennebunkport, this tour takes you along the stunning coastline of Maine. Along the way, you’ll stop in quaint towns, admire ocean views, and sample fresh seafood.

2. Vermont Foliage

This tour takes you through some of Vermont’s most picturesque towns, with plenty of stops to enjoy the fall foliage. You’ll also have the chance to visit a working maple sugar farm and sample some delicious maple syrup.

3. The Berkshires

This scenic tour takes you through the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, with stops in quaint towns and historic sites. You’ll also have the chance to visit famous museums like The Clark Art Institute and MASS MoCA .

4. Newport, Rhode Island

This tour takes you to Newport, one of the most beautiful and historic cities on the east coast. You’ll tour mansions, stroll along Cliff Walk, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.

No trip to New England is complete without a visit to Boston. On this tour , you’ll see all the city’s most famous landmarks, from Fenway Park to the Freedom Trail.

6. The White Mountains

This tour takes you through New Hampshire’s stunning White Mountains region. Along the way, you’ll visit Mount Washington, Franconia Notch State Park, and other scenic attractions.

7. Cape Cod

This tour takes you to Cape Cod, one of New England’s most popular vacation destinations. You’ll tour the Cape Cod National Seashore, visit the town of Provincetown, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.

See Related : Best Bus Tours of Chicago, Illinois

8. Connecticut River Valley

This tour takes you through the scenic Connecticut River Valley, with stops in historic towns and picturesque villages. You’ll also have the chance to visit Hartford, the state capital, and Mystic Seaport, one of the country’s oldest maritime museums.

No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a wonderful fall experience in New England. So hop on a bus and explore all that this region has to offer this season!

See Related : Best Night Bus Tours Chicago, Illinois

Why Take A Fall Bus Tour Of New England?

Fall is a spectacular time of year in New England. The trees are ablaze with color, and the air is crisp and clear. Taking a bus tour is a great way to experience the beauty of the region without having to worry about driving.

You can sit back and relax as you take in the stunning scenery, and you’ll also have the opportunity to visit some of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

From Boston’s Freedom Trail to Rhode Island’s Newport Mansions, there’s plenty to see and do on a fall bus tour of New England. So why not sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride?

See Related: 10 Bus Tours To Salem, Massachusetts

What Are The Benefits Of Taking A Bus Tour?

When visiting a new city or country, it can be difficult to decide how best to see all the sights. With so many options available, from self-guided tours to walking tours to public transportation, it can be hard to know which the best choice is.

However, taking a bus tour has many advantages. First of all, it is an efficient way to see a lot of territory in a short amount of time. Secondly, bus tours are typically led by knowledgeable guides who can provide information and insights about the places you are visiting.

Finally, bus tours offer a great opportunity to meet other travelers and make new friends. Whether you are looking to cram in a lot of sightseeing or simply want an enjoyable and hassle-free way to explore a new place, taking a bus tour is a great option.

See Related: 10 Best Bus Tours In Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Fall bus tours of New England offer a wonderful way to see the beautiful changing leaves while enjoying the company of friends or family.

There are many different tour companies that operate in the region, so finding one that fits your needs should be easy. We’ve put together a list of some great options to get you started on planning your fall bus excursion!

Related Resources

• Best Nashville Party Bus Tours
• Best Bus Tours in Savannah, Georgia
• Best Yosemite Bus Tours From San Jose, California

Related Posts

• 16 Best Places to Visit in Texas
• How to Take a Bus from Flagstaff to Phoenix
• How to Take a Bus from Indianapolis to Chicago
• Plan Your Commute: A Guide to the 545 Bus Schedule
• How to Take a Bus from Seattle to Portland
• The Ultimate Guide to Navigating the x27 Bus Schedule
• How to Take a Bus from Pittsburgh to NYC
• Vamoose Bus Schedule: Timetables & Routes

Matador Original Series

The Best Fall Foliage Trips to Take by Bus in the Northeast

G azing at the yellows of quaking aspen or the deep reds of vine maples until your neck cringes is an autumn rite of passage in the Northeast. But before you hop in the car and head for the hills, remember one thing: It’s tough to enjoy the scenery when you’re the one stuck behind the wheel.

Fortunately, the close proximity of New York and New England’s population centers to its scenic areas, and to the nearby metropolises that feed into them, means that driving isn’t a necessary prerequisite to proper leaf-peeping. The below routes save you the hassle of driving and get you to the region’s leafiest, most colorful spots. All you have to do is sit back and take in the hues.

From Boston to the White Mountains

Photo: E.J.Johnson Photography /Shutterstock

Guided fall-foliage tours are aplenty from Boston, and some make it up to the White Mountains of New Hampshire and back in a single day — without sacrificing the photo stops of longer trips from Northeastern cities further afield.

Viator offers a guided tour from Boston along the scenic Kancamagus Highway through the White Mountains for $125 per person. You’ll stop at a few photo ops along the way to lunch in North Conway. The tour culminates at the legendary Mount Washington Hotel, a National Historic Landmark that’s hosted presidential getaways and the pen-hands of the most prominent Gilded Age writers. Be that as it may, the tour’s highlight remains the burgeoning bands of oranges, yellows, and bronzes that dot the hillsides.

From New York City to Watkins Glen State Park

Photo: Michael Shake /Shutterstock

Traveling from New York City to Ithaca, New York, via OurBus costs between $35 and $60 — depending on the day — and takes about 4.5 hours. Getting there from Boston is doable, too, but that still takes you through NYC.

You’ll depart in the morning and arrive in downtown Ithaca by early afternoon. Once there, your itinerary requires just one thing: Watkins Glen State Park . Hike the Gorge Trail and try not to get too distracted by the jaw-dropping scenery surrounding you — or else you might find yourself passed by groups of more focused hikers at best or at worst sliding down a muddy embankment.

If you still have energy left after hiking the trails and staring at the flora for an entire afternoon, the surrounding Finger Lakes region offers plenty of wine and farm-to-table food to please.

From New York City to Storm King Nature Center

Photo: Sangyeon Park /Shutterstock

Going all the way to Ithaca and actually enjoying the experience requires an overnight, but it’s certainly not the only leaf-peepin’ option from the Big Apple. CoachUSA sells round-trip bus tickets from New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal to the outdoor Storm King Art Center, about an hour-and-a-half from the city.

For $48, you’ll get there and back to experience the fall colors in and around the nature center. The foliage is accented by the outdoor art sculptures that line the park, meaning you can actually snap some unique photos that aren’t carbon copies of every fall foliage shot on Instagram. With about 5.5 hours on-site, you’ll be back in the city in time to still grab dinner afterward.

From Portland, Maine, to Acadia National Park

Photo: Eric Urquhart /Shutterstock

Acadia National Park is a microcosm of everything naturally awesome about New England. As such, the fall colors are striking — and easy to get to from just about anywhere in Maine. With the help of Rome2Rio , you can get from Portland, Maine, to Acadia National Park by bus in about 5.5 hours, and you’ll only have to shell out $30-50 for the journey each way.

Once there, Matador has you covered with everything you need to know about visiting Acadia National Park . The best spots to see the colors in Acadia are from its beaches, where you can stare at the rising hills and Cadillac Mountain at a safe distance from the single-occupancy vehicles clogging up the park’s main thoroughfare.

Multi-day tours across the Northeast

Photo: Sean Pavone /Shutterstock

Taking in the entire region requires more than one day. It also necessitates either a knack for trip-planning logistics (see Rome2Rio for help) or a decent budget.

If you have the latter, a number of companies offer eight-day guided excursions departing from cities across the region. Go Ahead Tours departs from Burlington, Vermont, in the direction of Massachusetts, stopping at six leaf-peeping spots along with visits to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, a cheese factory, and a number of other interesting and delicious excursions. The tour costs about $2,400 per person, but it’s nearly all-inclusive — your hotel rooms, breakfasts, and some dinners (including libations) are covered.

11 of the most spectacular waterfalls to visit in the US this fall

Trending now, this vermont airbnb comes with its own private golf course, 10 last-minute eclipse home rentals and hotels still available, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

cities & locations

The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include International airfare; additional fees/charges are not included. If a price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s) – please review current promotions or deals for additional information. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus).

Christian Tours

New England Fall Foliage

• Itinerary/Pricing
• Tour Photos

SHENANDOAH VALLEY:

Gettysburg cyclorama • amish tour & meal:, west point • hyde park • home of franklin d. roosevelt national historic site:, grandma moses schoolhouse • bennington museum • world's largest granite quarry • dinner:, maple grove • fairbanks museum • cannon mountain tram:, boston city tour • lunch • plimoth patuxet • mayflower ii • plymouth rock:, mystic seaport • lunch:.

TOUR PHOTOS

• Escorted Vacations
• Charter Transportation
• Group Tour Planning
• Student Group Travel
• Travel Agency
• Wedding Chapel
• Internet Promotions
• Early Booking Discounts
• Customer Tour Evaluation
• Customer Comments
• Helpful Information
• Travel Insurance
• Tour Payments
• Special Needs Information
• Request a Free Catalog
• Request Information by Email
• Our Location
• Photo Gallery

New England Tours & Trips

Visit stunning New England, on the US East Coast , to take in the natural beauty of the Maine coast, where you can sample the locally-caught lobster and visit some of the country's best-known beaches. Travellers to New England often visit Boston and Bar Harbor, as well as the island of Martha's Vineyard. September has the most tour departures.

55 New England tour packages with 827 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Cape Cod & the Islands

Great trip!! The Red Jacket Resort was perfect… Hilary, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable and helpful. Would definitely recommend this trip.

• Coach / Bus

Fall Colours of New England (10 Days)

Thoroughly enjoyed the tour

New England's Fall Foliage (Classic, 8 Days)

Even though I was traveling and sharing room I had to receive everything through my companion, including this review instead of as an individual who payed for this trip also. Was confusing on who the contact was , Tour Radar, Insight Vacations. I had an issue with my travel insurance(yet another company) and never got answers or connected with anyone to help resolve the issue.The final cost was way more than I anticipated with having to pay extra for our plane tickets, transport from airport, so many of my own meals. I went on a 10 day tour of Europe visiting 4 countries that included plane tickets, and all meals and it was over half of what I spent on this trip in my own country. That’s a shame. Overall though our tour guide, Amanda Hache made up for any negatives. She was amazing and went way above and beyond to help make this a special trip. It would be nice if you stressed how much physical walking is involved. We did have issues with our last hotel not being prepared for our group at meals which was ridiculous, it’s not like they didn’t know we were coming and they ran out of food on buffet plus rooms were hot at night and no AC, which is ridiculous also for these days and times. If they can air condition the halls and public rooms they can air condition the guests rooms. We were told very rudely to open our windows which we couldn’t reach because of a big sleeper sofa being in the room. Our last dinner took way too long. We were at restaurant at 7:00 and it was a good 45 minutes before they got to us to take a drink order and just as long to serve each course. We were almost half way through our lobsters before they ever brought out our vegetable side dishes and by then most did not want them and there was absolutely no room on table to place them anywhere so they kinda slipped them into the dish with our lobster and all that juice. It was very late when we finished and some of us had to get up and walk out earlier waiting for others who had not even been served dessert yet. Again, this place was not prepared for our group of 36. Breakfast our last day was nothing but scrambled eggs, some pastries, oatmeal, no fruit or yogurt of any kind, no bacon or sausage, and no plain bread or bagels for those that didn’t eat sweets. Again, if it wasn’t for our guide Amanda and our bus driver Lewis I don’t know how much this trip would have been enjoyed. They were great!

• Hiking & Trekking

Hike New Hampshire's Appalachian Trail and Presidential Peaks

Cycling Maine's Coast & National Park

Classic Walks in Vermont

New England's Fall Foliage (Small Groups, 8 Days)

Classic Fall Foliage

I was on a fall foliage tour with Globus. The guide was great, the itinerary was also very nice and I enjoyed it very much. I was however disappointed that despite Globus claiming on their website that they have "small group" tours that average 24 people there were 42 on our tour. I guess I should look for advertisement of the total group size instead of thinking that an "average" of 24 would be closer to 24 than to 42! Proof of vaccination was required, which was necessary for me to sign up in the first place but I truly felt deceived that my "small group" was almost double the average.

• Mountain Hikes

Lonesome Lake and the White Mountains

Zealand Falls and the Appalachian Trail

Roaming Coastal Maine featuring Portland, Acadia & Penobscot Bay (Portland, ME to Freeport, ME) (2024)

• Kayak & Canoe

Hike & Kayak Maine's Acadia National Park

Spotlight on Boston

I was a little nervous before the start of the trip because there were some complications trying to confirm the trip. It was partially my fault because I did book the trip relatively last minute, but I do believe there was some miscommunication on both ends that could have been avoided from the very beginning. The biggest problem was the method of communication. I did not understand that in order for the information to be relayed correctly, you had to message through the communication portal on touradar's website. That was not explicitly made clear, and it took several days and conversations with multiple people to finally realize that. Once that was made clear, everything ran much more smoothly, but I definitely think for the customer's sake especially new customer, someone needs to be very clear in explaining that and confirm with the customer by having them relay it back to them. Thankfully, once everything was booked and confirmed, the trip ran wonderfully! I had such a blast. My tour guide was amazing and the group I was with were incredible. I am definitely looking forward to booking another trip in the future.

Colours of New England

Our guide, Yvonne DeWit, was excellent! Organized, knowledgeable, informative. Interesting variety of stops from rugged Maine to quaint Vermont to historic Boston with much in between. Would highly recommend this tour and look forward to another one.

Colors of New England

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about New England Tours

Exceptional itinerary, tour director, and coach driver.

I enjoyed this trip . The coach is good.Hyannis first day break fast was good.coverage is good.Hyannis golf resort stay is superb.providence city halt in hotel graduates is excellent.Fall colours coverage is very good.coach guidance is okay.overall the trip is very good.

I was hoping we'd stop more so that I could take more pictures of foliage but overall I enjoyed all that we did. Brigette is a great person, with a fantastic personality.

New England Tours starting in:

• Boston (13)
• Fully Guided (48)
• Explorer (32)
• Family (29)
• In-depth Cultural (23)
• Hiking & Trekking (14)
• Coach / Bus (10)
• Personalized (8)
• Partially Guided (5)
• Small Group (11)
• 7 Day Tours (16)
• 10 Day Tours (13)
• Spring 2024 (1)
• Summer 2024 (17)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (23)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (1)
• Spring 2025 (5)
• Summer 2025 (13)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (17)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1)
• May 2024 (2)
• June 2024 (10)
• July 2024 (8)
• August 2024 (12)
• September 2024 (20)
• October 2024 (16)
• January 2025 (1)
• February 2025 (1)
• March 2025 (1)
• April 2025 (2)
• May 2025 (6)
• June 2025 (9)
• July 2025 (11)
• August 2025 (9)
• September 2025 (16)
• October 2025 (13)
• November 2025 (1)
• December 2025 (1)

Other Regions in USA

• Western USA (751)
• Sun Belt (426)
• Southwest USA (422)
• Rocky Mountains (272)
• Four Corners (221)
• Eastern USA (217)
• East Coast USA (177)
• West Coast USA (174)
• California (160)
• Alaska (118)
• Pacific Coast USA (112)
• Northeast USA (112)
• Southern USA (100)
• Southeast USA (89)
• Grand Canyon (87)
• Northern California (79)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (23)
• For Couples (23)
• Seniors (27)

New England Fall Foliage

$3279 - Double (per person) $4722 - Single

Day 1: Colorful New England is our destination as we seek the fall colors. After a ride through Kansas and Missouri we arrive in Collinsville, IL, for night.

2: Our trip today takes us through fertile farmlands of Illinois and Indiana. A stop at the Indianapolis Speedway allows us to visit the Hall of Fame Museum inside the 2.5 mile oval track. We continue into Ohio where we overnight in Dayton.

3: This afternoon we visit the Flight 93 Memorial near Shanksville, PA. This memorial is located where Flight 93 crashed on September 11, 2001. We continue to scenic central Pennsylvania. Night in Bedford.

4: Today we continue our drive east traveling through Pennsylvania and through a corner of New York state before we drive along the Connecticut coast to overnight in Mystic.

5: We start our day with a visit to Mystic Seaport . Visiting its historic houses, shops and trade buildings gives us a better understanding of life in a 19th-century seaport village. Next we travel through the state of Rhode Island to get to Plymouth, MA, where we visit Plymouth Rock. Later we travel to Boston for the next two nights.

6: Today we spend a day rich in American history. Following the Freedom Trail , we’ll see such sights as Boston Common, Beacon Hill , and the Old North Church . In the afternoon we cross the Charles River to see the storied battlefields of Lex­ing­ton and Concord .

7: This is our day to visit some of the quaint villages of coastal Maine. A local guide joins us for a tour of Kennebunkport and Portland , including a stop at the Portland Head Light Lighthouse . Night in Portland.

8: A short drive across the southern tip of Maine brings us into New Hampshire where we anticipate beautiful fall colors. A drive along the scenic Kancamagus Pass brings us into the heart of the White Mountains . Later we travel to Montpelier, VT, where we visit a local maple sugar farm . While at the farm we learn how tree sap is collected and turned into syrup and other maple treats. Next two nights in Montpelier.

9: This is our day to enjoy the fall colors as we visit sites in and around Montpelier. We begin the day with a visit to Hope Cemetery which is filled with tombstones elaborately sculpted from granite quarried in the area. Next we visit Rock of Ages , one of the local quarries. This afternoon we drive a short distance to Waterbury where we visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill . Next we take a factory tour at Ben and Jerry’s ice cream and have an opportunity to sample their flavor of the day.

10: Our travel today takes us around the southern tip of Lake Champlain and into New York state. Soon after we cross the state line we are in the Adirondack Mountains and more opportunity to see fall color. We stop in Lake Placid, host of the 1980 Winter Olympics. This afternoon we continue through the Adirondacks to overnight in Watertown.

11: Today we are on our way across northern New York headed for Niagara Falls . A mid-afternoon arrival allows us time to ride to the base of Niagara Falls on the Maid of the Mist . Night in Niagara Falls.

12: This morning we visit Goat Island for a close-up view above the falls. A pleasant drive along Lake Erie occupies our afternoon before we arrive near Maumee, OH, for night.

13: Our way leads steadily home through the farmlands of central Illinois and Iowa. Night in Des Moines.

14: This is our last day with a chance to reflect on a beautiful trip before we reach our destination in central Kansas.

Contact Prudent Tours

•   Yes, please send me one.
•   Yes, please send one to my friend.
•   No, I already have a catalog

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

cities & locations

The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include International airfare; additional fees/charges are not included. If a price is crossed out, the new price includes a limited time promotional offer(s) – please review current promotions or deals for additional information. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Cosmos).

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The Most Scenic New England Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Activities and Interests
• Connecticut
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Massachusetts
• New England
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Seasonal Travel
• Types of Travel
• United States

If you desire to do some leaf-peeping this fall, the New England states offer a fantastic smorgasbord of destinations to see the most beautiful and colorful leaves. Our nine-day, eight-night road-trip will guide you to stunning spots. Take the trip at our suggested pace, or move at the pace that suits your vacation needs.

The best time to see the most colorful array of leaves in the picturesque New England corner of the States is from the third week of September till Columbus Day. Usually, the first week of October is prime time for leaves to be changing color. Think spectacular orange and red hues set against lush forests and tranquil lakes. They usually change from north to south, so we will begin our colorful fall foliage road trip in the north.

Acadia National Park

Bar harbor, maine.

Our first stop is Bar Harbor and Maine’s Acadia National Park . Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island is a 47,000-acre park that is beautiful year-round. It has a 27-mile park loop with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the leaves and take photographs of the foliage.

You can also visit the highest point along the Eastern Coast at the park’s 1,527-foot Cadillac Mountain. You will have quite a view from there. Enjoy the leaves on maples and birches, along with a variety of evergreens. If you desire to get a bit of exercise, there are 120 miles of trails.

You could spend a half or a whole day enjoying the colorful orange and red hues of nature in the park. The town of Bar Harbor is also fun with shops and many seafood restaurants. You could easily spend an entire weekend here.

Spend the night in Bar Harbor at the Balance Rock Inn . It is a lovely hotel right on the water overlooking a secluded beach.

Androscoggin River Recreation Trail 

Bethel, maine.

We are going to head west on route ME-3 to Bethel, Maine. You will pass by Augusta, the capital of Maine, about halfway there.

Bethel, Maine, is a small mountain village with exceptional views of fall foliage and hiking/walking trails . From Bethel, you can check out the Androscoggin River Recreation Trail (accessible via the Bethel Pathway) on foot or by bike and see the gorgeous foliage and perhaps some wildlife.

Colorful leaves are also abundant nearby in White Mountain National Forest and Grafton Notch State Park .

A fun place to stay in Bethel is the Sunday River Ski Resort . Although you won’t be skiing, they usually have a host of activities going on, including golf, hikes, zip lining, and more. The resort has a spa to help you relax and scenic lift rides that are great for taking pictures of the foliage.

If you desire, you could spend an additional day or two exploring the areas surrounding Bethel.

The Kancamagus Highway

Spectacular fall foliage awaits you as you leave the deep green pine forests of western Maine and enter New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Drive west via U.S. 2 (watch for moose) and then take NH 16 south.

The Mt. Washington Auto Road permits you to drive up to the peak of Mount Washington. There are also vans that give guided tours, or you can wait till you are on the western side and take the cog railroad up to the top. There is a museum and an observation area at the top.

A few places to be sure and stop are the C.L. Graham Overlook, which is just below the summit of Kancamagus Pass and the Silver Cascade Waterfall. Both are great places for photos.

Then it’s on to the Kancamagus Scenic Byway for a 35-mile drive through White Mountain National Forest. Named one of the most beautiful highways in the United States, the Kanc, as it’s referred to by locals, is a National Scenic Byway. During this drive, you will pass near dozens of waterfalls while birches, beeches, and maple trees blaze against a pine backdrop. It is beautiful, but be aware there are no restaurants, homes, or fuel stops on the Kanc.

Bretton Woods , a Mount Washington resort, offers stunning views of Mount Washington. Nearby is the Mount Washington Cog Railway , which will take you to the top of the mountain. I recommend this tour. It is the world’s first cog railway, and it has been climbing the mountain for more than 130 years.

The Omni Mount Washington in Bretton Woods offers a view from every room, fine dining, and spa facilities and is a great spot to spend the night.

This area is abundant with things to do and see, so you could spend multiple days in the Mount Washington and Kancamagus Highway area.

Trapp Family Lodge 

Stowe, vermont.

Next, we will head west on VT-15 to Stowe. The white spire of Stowe Community Church identifies the beginning of the famous Route 100’s long skein of country villages. Try a cider donut from one of the many country stores in the area. A picturesque town ablaze with beautiful leaves in the fall, you will enjoy spending time here.

There are hiking trails for those who desire a bit more exercise. Many restaurants feature farm-to-table dining and craft beer. While our itinerary includes a night here, you could easily spend a weekend if time permitted.

Spend the night in the European-style Trapp Family Lodge owned by the Austrian family who inspired The Sound of Music . They have rooms, suites, and villas as well as a variety of restaurants and activities. While you’re in town, you can also consider the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont to fill out your itinerary.

Heading south on the billboard-free Route 100 will take us through some quaint villages and past country stores and bakeries. You will want to stop and visit a few of them.

As we drive south, the Green Mountain Byway runs between Stowe and Waterbury. Stop in Waterbury for some famous Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream . The factory welcomes visitors and offers free samples.

Down the road a few miles is The Cold Hollow Cider Mill . Enjoy watching them press the cider and shop for treats.

Then it’s back on the road with a stop for the night at a bed and breakfast in Waitsfield.

The Inn at Round Barn in Waitsfield is a rural bed and breakfast and an ideal place to spend the night. They have a variety of rooms, and some feature a cozy fireplace in the bedroom.

Billings Farm

Woodstock, vermont.

We will head 54 miles south via VT-12A south and VT-12 south to the historic town of Woodstock, Vermont. It is one of the best destinations for colorful and lush fall foliage, and the town is full of charm with quaint shops and restaurants.

I know you are here to see the vivid leaves, but make sure you carve out time to visit Billings Farm and Museum to taste some fresh local Vermont cheese. See the famous covered bridge while you are here, too. You should plan for a several-hour stop before we head to Bennington, or, if you’re going to stay the night, you can explore the best things to do in Woodstock, Vermont , which include local glass-blowing demonstrations, falconry experiences, and strolling the Dartmouth quad.

Shires Of Vermont Byway

We are off to Bennington via US-7 S for 85 miles. Shires of Vermont is the name of the southwest corner of Vermont, and it encompasses numerous towns, including the historic towns of Bennington and Manchester.

The drive is a kaleidoscope of vibrant color in the Green Mountain National Forest.

In Bennington, the 306-foot-tall monument built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington is the state’s most famous historic site. It offers an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the surrounding areas, including Mother Nature’s artistic showcase of leaves. The world’s largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings is located nearby at the Bennington Museum .

A great place to stay for the night is the Four Chimneys Inn , a beautiful bed and breakfast that serves a hearty country breakfast each morning.

Norman Rockwell Museum 

Stockbridge, massachusetts.

Our next stop will be Stockbridge, Massachusetts, via Route 7. Enjoy the colorful scenery through the Berkshires’ rolling hills, and stop for a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum , home to the largest and most significant collection of original Rockwell art. Plan to spend a few hours here.

Continue on Route 7 for just over 100 miles to Norwalk.

Woodbury, Connecticut 

There are dozens of places to stop and take in the leaves or visit a delightful spot along the way. If you are into antiques, a stop in Woodbury might be in order. It is known as the Antique Capital of Connecticut. Plan for a stop at Kent Falls State Park to stretch your legs. The park has an easy hike that includes covered bridges and waterfalls.

Spend the night at The Norwalk Inn , where you can have your choice of a room or a suite.

Steam Train

Essex, connecticut.

Head east via I-95 across Connecticut for 63 miles to Essex.

Nestled in the Lower Connecticut River Valley is the Essex Steam Train . Let the steam locomotive and vintage railcars take you through the valley to see the vibrant changing leaves. Essex was named the perfect small American town in the book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die .

Then cross the river to Old Lyme, where an old boarding house is now the Florence Griswold Museum .

Plan to stay at the Bee and Thistle Inn in Old Lyme for a good night’s rest before the last day of the trip.

The Rhode Island Coastline

Our final leaf-peeping segment will begin in Westerly, Rhode Island, and go along the Rhode Island coastline. Take 95 to Westerly at the state’s extreme southwest corner, then hit Route 1A and enjoy a colorful scenic drive along the coast. The road meanders the inlets and coves, giving you views of the water on one side and the beautiful fall colors on the other.

In Charleston, you might want to visit Burlingame State Park or the Fantastic Umbrella Factory . Near the factory are several small rustic stores and a cafe.

Plan on cool crisp mornings and know that it may or may not warm up throughout the day. It is best to dress in layers and be sure to take a warm jacket.

The New England states provide hundreds of spots that are perfect for seeing fall foliage. Our colorful autumn journey showcases just a few of my favorites, and hopefully they will become your favorites as well.

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond

If you feel left out whenever your social media feeds blow up with beautiful pictures of fall foliage, you probably should plan your own leaf-peeping trip. Sure, you could arrange an epic road trip, complete with traffic jams and overpriced, overcrowded tourist traps. Or, you could take a fall foliage cruise.

From a cruise ship, you can enjoy the autumnal hues of the Canadian and New England coastline as you sail between northeastern U.S. home ports like New York and Boston and Canada's Montreal or Quebec City. Book shore excursions for a more relaxing day out; the bus driver will navigate the traffic along tree-lined byways to scenic vistas, and your mealtimes will be prearranged (or held on board your ship's multiple dining venues).

If you'd rather explore fall's colors outside of the Northeast, a few cruise lines will take you to fall foliage destinations in other parts of the U.S., too.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You'll want to book your Canada and New England cruise at least six months (if not a year or more) in advance for the best pricing and availability. Here, we present the five best fall foliage cruises you should consider in New England, Canada and beyond.

7-day Canada and New England Discovery cruise on Holland America

Holland America 's 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam is a delightfully midsize ship, so you don't have to worry about crowds as you sail between Boston and Quebec City. The ship starts sailing this route in late August, but for the best leaf peeping, you'll want to book one of the two October departures.

Ports of call include Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine. Take your pick of scenic drives or strolls through gardens or along hiking paths, camera at the ready. On board, spend your evenings rocking out to live music or enjoying a leisurely meal of steak or seafood at the Pinnacle Grill.

Best for : Holland America attracts mainly retirees and couples who appreciate the line's focus on fine dining and live performances. Zuiderdam's itinerary is ideal for anyone who doesn't mind flying in and out of different cities in order to travel farther north into Canada than the one-way sailings.

Related: 11 best cruises to Canada and New England

7-day Canada and New England cruise on Princess Cruises

For an easy round-trip New York cruise that leans more into New England than Canada, consider Princess Cruises ' weeklong October sailings on the 3,660-passenger Enchanted Princess. Choose from itineraries with four or five ports, including Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Bar Harbor; Halifax; and (only on certain sailings) Saint John, New Brunswick.

If seascapes are your thing, don't miss the beautiful coastal landscape by the Bay of Fundy (from Saint John) or Peggy's Cove in Nova Scotia. Head to the hills in Bar Harbor for elevated views, or escape to sea with a harbor cruise from Newport.

Best for : Princess Cruises also attracts mature couples and lovers of classic cruising, but the 2019-debuted Enchanted Princess is much larger and bigger than Holland America's Zuiderdam. Kick back with the line's signature Movies Under the Stars (complete with blankets for fall nights in New England), or enjoy multiple specialty restaurants devoted to Italian specialties, steakhouse fare and seafood. Bundle up for a romantic breakfast on your balcony while the colorful coastline passes by.

Related: The best time for a Canada and New England cruise

7-night Canada cruise on Royal Caribbean

Combine an easy Boston round-trip sailing with a fall foliage cruise focused more on Canadian than New England ports with Royal Caribbean 's seven-night voyages on the 2,191-passenger Jewel of the Seas, setting sail in September and October 2024, and 2,142-passenger Brilliance of the Seas, departing in September and October 2025. Most itineraries call in Portland, Maine; Saint John; Sydney; and Halifax.

The ships are among Royal Caribbean's older and smaller ships, so don't go in expecting a humongous megaship with wild top-deck amenities (a good thing or not, depending on your style). You'll still find plenty of dining options (including Izumi for Japanese cuisine and Giovanni's Table for Italian), the line's signature circular Viking Crown Lounge and — perfect for fall weather — an indoor, adults-only solarium.

Best for : Royal Caribbean fans seeking a midsize ship experience with fewer children on board should book this cruise. Anyone looking for a round-trip cruise to Canada that doesn't require a passport will appreciate the convenient Boston departure port (with plenty of beautiful fall foliage on its own) and three port calls in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

7-night Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise on American Cruise Lines

Canada and New England aren't the only regions of the U.S. known for their fall foliage. American Cruise Lines offers several small-ship sailings in October to other leaf-peeping regions, including the Hudson River Valley, the Upper Mississippi and the Chesapeake Bay.

But for something completely different, why not try the line's seven-night, round-trip Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise from Seattle on the 90-passenger American Spirit or the 170-passenger American Constellation?

Your itinerary will take you to Anacortes, Friday Harbor, Port Angeles (gateway to Victoria, British Columbia, and Olympic National Park), Port Townsend and Poulsbo, Washington, with a day spent cruising around the San Juan Islands. Take advantage of the Fidalgo Island walking trails near Anacortes, and don't miss the photogenic Deception Pass nearby. Gaze at the Olympic and Cascade mountains in their fall glory, and enjoy the fall weather in historic waterfront towns.

Best for : Travelers looking for a different destination for their fall foliage cruise, but also cruisers who prioritize time on shore over time on the ship. American Cruise Lines' ships are tiny, just four to six decks, with amenities limited to a restaurant, a couple of lounges, small fitness areas and a sun deck, perhaps with a putting green. Be prepared to entertain yourself in the evenings — or go to bed early so you're energized for a full day in port nearly every day. Also, know that these ships generally draw an older retiree crowd.

12-day Canada and New England Fall Foliage cruise on Seabourn

Smaller ships can visit more off-the-beaten-path ports than their big-ship counterparts. Seabourn 's 458-passenger Seabourn Quest (2024) and Seabourn Sojourn (2025) sail 12-day cruises between New York and Montreal. Itineraries vary slightly by sail date, but visit several destinations in Quebec, including Trois-Rivieres, Quebec City, Baie-Comeau and Saguenay, with scenic cruising along the Saguenay Fjord. The ship also visits Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Halifax, Nova Scotia; it stops at a couple of American ports, too, such as Newport, Rhode Island, and Boston, Martha's Vineyard or Provincetown, Massachusetts.

This is also one of the best fall foliage cruises if you're looking for an all-inclusive voyage in luxurious surroundings. On Seabourn Quest, every cabin is a suite with a view (not to mention a walk-in closet and spacious bathroom with tub). You can enjoy gourmet cuisine, complimentary wine and cocktails and a friendly crew that will go above and beyond for you.

Best for : Luxury lovers who wish to be pampered on their leaf-peeping vacation will enjoy this nearly two-week cruise around Canada and New England. The extended itinerary features several days at sea to enjoy the ship's spa or delicious afternoon tea service, as well as some lesser-visited ports and, on select departures, an overnight in Halifax. It's ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their fall Northeast trip.

Bottom line

You might be surprised by how many choices you have for late-September and October fall foliage cruises. In addition to Seabourn, all the major luxury cruise lines dedicate a few cruises to this region, including such lines as Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Windstar Cruises , Oceania Cruises and Crystal . Big ships like NCL's Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway also get into the leaf-peeping action.

Here, we've picked the best fall foliage cruises for different itinerary configurations and ship styles. They might be our favorites, but only you know which combination of ports and onboard experience is the perfect match for your travel style.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin