Day 4

On the rugged coast of Maine, you will take a scenic and educational cruise aboard a lobster boat for an insider’s view of the life of Maine lobstermen. 

After a walking tour of Portland’s Old Port, you will continue on to New Hampshire’s scenic White Mountains, where you’ll enjoy a most interesting Raven interpretive program.

Day 5

Today you will explore the splendor of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the beauty of Franconia Notch, and Vermont’s famous Green Mountains. 

This is a highlight of all New England tours, especially in the autumn.   Pay a visit to another of America’s oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning, Dartmouth College, in Hanover, NH, before continuing on to Plymouth, Vermont.

Day 6

With its quaint covered bridge, Woodstock is a quintessential Vermont village.  The Billings Farm and Museum provides insights into life in rural Vermont, past and present.  In Plymouth, visit the birthplace of Calvin Coolidge, and see the historic buildings constructed by his father in 1890.

Day 7

In Stockbridge, yo’ëll enjoy an in-depth look at the life and talent of illustrator Norman Rockwell, and view many of his famous Saturday Evening Post covers at the Norman Rockwell Museum. 

You’ll discover for yourself why the rolling beauty of the Berkshire Hills provides such inspiration to artists and writers as you continue on to Williamstown for a one-night stay in this historic old town.

Day 8

Today, you will return to Boston via the Connecticut River’s scenic Pioneer Valley as you wind your way back to your hotel and airport for your flight home. 

This New England foliage tour will not only encompass historic attractions, but it is a photographer’s dream to be able to capture the many colors of autumn.  Your kids can pick a variety of leaves and save them for the family scrapbook to commemorate this wonderful family vacation, and the kaleidoscope of colors will be a great souvenir of this magical holiday.

Start planning now, for the trip of a life-time. You can never be sure exactly when the leaves are going to start turning into their rainbow of colors. In 2008 it was early August and they were past their prime by early to mid-September, so watch the Weather Channel’s foliage alerts, and be prepared to go at a moment’s notice!

One of the most beautiful seasons of the year to visit New England for some leaf peeping is late August to early September, when the leaves begin to turn color.  

Why not plan a Fall Foliage trip to New England with your family this year?  Take a look at a sample itinerary, which that is sure to include sights and activities your whole family will enjoy.

Day 1

Arrive in Boston and get settled in your hotel. Walk along the Charles river, do some shopping, dine out at one of the many excellent restaurants, and get ready for your historic trip to Boston.

Day 2

Today you will explore the rich history of the area as you view some of its most famous sites, such as the Old North Church, South Meeting House, and the common where Washington took command of the Continental Army. 

See two of America’s oldest and most venerable institutions of higher learning,  Harvard University, and its sister school Radcliffe College.

Day 3

Your family will follow the route of Paul Revere’s ride through Lexington and Concord to warn the citizens that the British were coming as you visit these historic Massachusetts towns. 

Although it may be best known for its infamous witches, Salem’s Federal-Era townhouses and beautifully preserved pre-1900 residences are impressive as well.  Continue on to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, first settled by Europeans in the 17th century, on this particularly historic New England tour. As you drive, enjoy the breathtaking colors of autumn.

Not to be forgotten is a visit to the Trapp Family Lodge, where you can also learn about the history of sugaring.  If this isn’t sweet enough, take a side trip to Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, where samples are offered during the 30-minute tour.

Also make it a point to visit the Depot Street Malt Shoppe in Stowe.  Here, you can order malts, frappes, sundaes, and cones. They also have burgers, sandwiches, and salads. This is a kid-friendly Malt Shoppe that serves lunch and dinner daily.

You and your kids will love the Eden Dog-Sled and Dog-Cart tours.  This is a unique experience in that there are 75 acres in the midst of 3000 of protected Vermont wilderness.† Learn how to mush with Jim Blair.  Harness and hitch each dog on your team, then take an exhilarating ride through scenic meadows and pristine and private Vermont woodlands.

If you are traveling from New York City, the drive up is incredibly beautiful and scenic.  Accommodations range from plush resorts to country inns, bed and breakfasts, and chalets.

Check online or with your travel agent to determine the best rates available and enjoy Stowe in the spring. It offers snow and something for everyone in spring.