New England Autumn Road Trip: From Manhattan to Vermont and Back
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Buckle up and join me on an epic road trip that spans from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the breathtaking landscapes of New England, all set against the vibrant backdrop of autumn. This journey will take you through some of the most stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and historic sites that the Northeast has to offer. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time on the road.
Day 1-2: Manhattan, NYC
Start Your Journey: Begin your trip in Manhattan, where the energy is palpable and the attractions are endless. Spend a day or two exploring iconic spots like:
Times Square, NYC
Picked up the rental car in Manhattan
Central Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. In autumn, the park transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors as the leaves change.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art: One of the world’s largest and most renowned museums, featuring a vast collection of art and artifacts.
Top of the Rock: For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center.
Times Square: Experience the vibrant nightlife and bright lights of this famous square.
9/11 Memorial & Museum: A poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, offering a somber reflection on history.
Car Rental: For this road trip, I highly recommend using DiscoverCars.com for your car rental needs. Here’s why:
Wide Range of Vehicles: From compact cars to SUVs, DiscoverCars.com offers a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.
Competitive Prices: They provide competitive pricing and often have special deals and discounts.
Excellent Customer Service: Their customer support is top-notch, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Collect your rental car from Newark Airport, which is conveniently located just outside of Manhattan.
Driving off NYC
Day 3-4: White Mountains, New Hampshire
Drive to the White Mountains: From Manhattan, head north to the White Mountains in New Hampshire. This drive is approximately 4.5 hours, but the scenic views and charming towns along the way make it well worth the journey. The autumn foliage in this region is particularly stunning, with the mountains and valleys painted in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Luxurious Accommodations: Spacious rooms with modern amenities and stunning mountain views.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, golfing, and other outdoor activities right from the resort.
Historic Charm: The resort is steeped in history and offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern comfort.
Things to Do:
Mount Washington: Take a drive up to the highest peak in the Northeast and enjoy the panoramic views from the summit. Be sure to check the weather conditions before heading up, as the weather can change quickly.
Tip: The autumn foliage from the summit is breathtaking, with the mountainside covered in a blanket of colorful leaves.
Kancamagus Highway: This 34-mile scenic drive is a must-do, especially during the fall season when the foliage is at its peak. Stop at various viewpoints and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Tip: Bring your camera to capture the stunning views and vibrant colors along this route.
Franconia Notch State Park: Explore the park’s many attractions, including the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza, a historic site that commemorates the famous rock formation.
Tip: The park’s hiking trails are particularly beautiful in autumn, with the leaves changing colors and creating a picturesque landscape.
Explore the White Mountains of New Hampshire on this fall foliage day trip from Boston. Admire the changing fall colors as you ride in a climate-controlled bus along the Kancamagus Byway.
Day 5-6: Montpelier, Vermont
Drive to Montpelier: From the White Mountains, head to Montpelier, Vermont, a drive of about 2.5 hours. Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the U.S. and offers a quaint, small-town charm. The drive through Vermont is especially scenic in autumn, with rolling hills and countryside roads lined with trees displaying their fall colors.
Hotel Recommendation: Stay at the Inn at Montpelier. This cozy inn provides:
Comfortable Rooms: Clean, well-appointed rooms with all the necessary amenities.
Warm Atmosphere: A welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Central Location: Conveniently located in the heart of Montpelier, making it easy to explore the town.
Things to Do:
Vermont State House: Take a guided tour of this historic building and enjoy the views from its golden dome. The tours are free and offer a glimpse into Vermont’s history and government.
Tip: The State House grounds are particularly beautiful in autumn, with the surrounding trees changing colors.
Downtown Montpelier: Stroll through the charming streets and visit local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Vermont History Museum and the T.W. Wood Gallery.
Northfield Mountain: Just outside of Montpelier, Northfield Mountain offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views, especially during the fall season.
Day 7-8: Smuggler’s Notch & Stowe, Vermont
Drive to Stowe: From Montpelier, drive to Stowe, a picturesque town known for its ski resorts and fall foliage. The drive is about an hour and takes you through some of Vermont’s most scenic landscapes.
Luxurious Accommodations: Spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and stunning mountain views.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities right from the resort.
Amenities: An outdoor heated pool, spa services, and several dining options.
Things to Do:
Smuggler’s Notch State Park: Explore this unique park with its narrow mountain pass and historic significance. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, all enhanced by the autumn foliage.
Tip: The park’s scenic drive is particularly beautiful in the fall, with the leaves changing colors and creating a picturesque landscape.
Stowe Recreation Path: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along this 5.5-mile path that runs through the heart of Stowe. The path is perfect for families and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, especially during the fall season.
Trapp Family Lodge: Visit this famous lodge, made famous by the von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame. Enjoy a meal at one of their restaurants, take a tour, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Tip: The lodge’s grounds are particularly beautiful in autumn, with the surrounding trees changing colors and creating a picturesque landscape.
Day 9-10: Stowe to Boston, Massachusetts
Drive to Boston: From Stowe, head to Boston, a drive of about 3.5 hours. Boston is a city steeped in history and culture. While the drive takes you out of the heart of New England’s fall foliage, the city itself has plenty to offer.
Hotel Recommendation: Stay at the Omni Parker House. This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Boston and offers:
Luxurious Accommodations: Elegant rooms with modern amenities and a touch of old-world charm.
Excellent Service: Top-notch service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Central Location: Conveniently located near many of Boston’s major attractions.
Things to Do:
Freedom Trail: Walk along this 2.5-mile trail that takes you through 16 historic sites, including the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, and the USS Constitution.
North End: Explore Boston’s oldest neighborhood, known for its Italian cuisine and historic charm. Be sure to visit the Old North Church and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Museum of Fine Arts: Visit one of the largest and most visited art museums in the country, featuring a vast collection of art from around the world.
Boston Common: Take a stroll through this historic park, which is the oldest public park in the country.
Day 11: Boston to Woodstock, Vermont
Drive to Woodstock: From Boston, drive to Woodstock, Vermont, a charming town known for its picturesque village and historic homes. The drive is about 3 hours and takes you back into the heart of New England’s fall foliage.
Luxurious Accommodations: Spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Amenities: A spa, golf course, and several dining options.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities right from the resort.
Things to Do:
Day 12: Woodstock to New York City
Drive Back to NYC: From Woodstock, head back to New York City, a drive of about 4 hours. Reflect on the amazing sights and experiences you’ve had on your road trip.
Travel Tips:
Car Rental: As mentioned, DiscoverCars.com is an excellent choice for car rentals due to its wide selection and customer-friendly policies.
Travel Money Management: Use Revolut, a travel money management app that allows you to manage your finances effortlessly while abroad. Revolut offers competitive exchange rates, real-time spending updates, and no hidden fees.
eSim Provider: Consider Yesim for your eSim needs, providing you with seamless and affordable data coverage throughout your trip. This is especially useful for navigating and staying connected on the go.
E-Visa: For those who need a visa, E-Visa offers a quick and easy electronic visa application process. This can save you time and hassle, ensuring you’re ready for your trip without any last-minute complications.
This road trip is a journey through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of New England, all set against the stunning backdrop of autumn. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene landscapes of Vermont, each stop offers a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories. With the right car rental, travel apps, and accommodations, you’re set for an adventure of a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride through the vibrant colors of New England’s autumn.