There’s one thing about New England that draws people from near and far during September and October, and that’s the change of season and Fall Foliage. There’s something special about New England season change that makes it a magical destination for road trips.
The weather is still nice, it’s cool and crisp making it the perfect temperature for layered clothing and windows down while you’re driving through the woodsy areas of New England. Are you doing your research trying to figure out what to do and where to stay for your upcoming New England Foliage road trip? We’ve got you covered!
When you’re traveling through Vermont, be sure to make a stop in Fayston where the cozy Mad River Barn is located. The Mad River Barn provides convenient access to everything the Valley has to offer. They don’t only have a super cozy inn, but they have a fantastic restaurant and pub that are open year-round serving the community through ski season, summer river days, foliage, and everything in between. They’re less than two miles from Mad River Glen and less than five miles from Sugarbush Resort’s Lincoln Peak. Are you looking for a special place for a wedding? Consider booking your special day at Mad River Barn!
Next, head towards Stowe, VT. This part of Vermont is where the foliage begins, the views are beautiful and so peaceful! Once you make it to Stowe, our hotel recommendation is Edson Hill, an elegant Inn located in the picture-perfect hills of Stowe, Vermont. Nestled high on a hill overlooking 38-acres of natural breathtaking Vermont scenery; Edson Hill has conveniently located just a short drive from the village of Stowe and skiing or hiking at Stowe Mountain Resort. Guests experience the serenity of a secluded retreat where you can feel a million miles away – along with easy access to endless local attractions.
Heading East out of Vermont towards New Hampshire will be a beautiful sight. Heading to our next recommended destination of North Conway, you drive right through the White Mountain National Forest which will give you unforgettable views of the changing seasons. Once you reach your destination, we suggest staying at the North Conway Grand Hotel, one of our favorite hotels in New England! As North Conway’s only full-service resort hotel, they offer 200 oversized guest rooms and suites. You can relax by their heated indoor and outdoor pools, lounge on their sun deck. Renew your senses in the spa, recharge in the fitness center, or enjoy regional cuisine and craft cocktails in their Mountainside Restaurant and Tavern. It’s a great place to hunker down for one night or stay for a few nights as there are many things to do in and around the area.
When you’re finished up in North Conway, our recommended next stop would be Brunswick, ME. On the way to Brunswick, you’ll pass both Sebago Lake and Freeport, ME which both have great foliage views! Sebago Lake has incredible views, where Freeport is a small, quiet town with great daily activities.
Once you reach your destination of Brunswick, we recommend staying the night at the Brunswick Hotel. The Brunswick Hotel in Brunswick, Maine, boasts a phenomenal location, thoughtfully appointed rooms, and an excellent guest service team.
Historic and picturesque, Brunswick mixes New England charm with thriving art and entertainment culture. Visitors can explore more than fifty ethnically diverse restaurants, distinctive retail shops, a year-round Farmers Market, and cultural offerings at the town’s many theaters, galleries, museums, and festive community events—nearly all within walking distance of the vibrant downtown.
Moving on from Brunswick, ME we recommend starting back south, to southern New England. If you’re taking Route 295, you’ll pass back through Portland which is great for lunch and some small-town shopping. But then hop back in your car and make your way to our next favorite hotel in Maine, the Viewpoint Hotel in York. This beautiful coastal hotel is a great place to discover perfect contentment as you watch the sunset and stargaze over the Atlantic where you can see for miles and miles. It’s easy to be happy at The ViewPoint.
This little long weekend foliage tour of New England was a condensed version, with extended stays in some of our favorite little towns and cities in the New England area. If you’re looking to cover more mileage and see more of New England, we recommend traveling more north to Bar Harbor, ME where the views are absolutely breathtaking. In addition, spending some more time in New Hampshire around Lake Winnipesaukee is always a great place to escape and unwind.