Nowhere in the world is more picturesque in the fall than New England. From the vibrant fire-colored leaves to the quaint little towns, New England is an autumnal paradise, the perfect destination for a fall foliage road trip. Whether you want to go leaf peeping during peak season or eat apple cider donuts for days, there’s something for everyone — hiking, llamas, you name it. Use this as your travel guide to Vermont and New Hampshire for the perfect 5-day itinerary!
When is the best time to see the peak foliage in New England?
Peak varies every year depending on a variety of factors, such as the weather and which state you’re in, but generally, the best time to catch the leaves at their prettiest is is early to mid October. Keep in mind that Vermont and New Hampshire hit peak earlier than Connecticut and Massachusetts. This year, we got lucky and happened to be in Vermont and New Hampshire exactly at peak, which was the second week of October.
What should I pack for fall in New England?
Layers, layers, layers! Typically, temperates are in the 50’s and 60’s, but for some reason, this year it was in the high 70’s for most of our days there. That’s why layers are so important. Bring some short sleeves and long sleeve basics that you can wear underneath, and top with sweaters and jackets. I brought everything from sherpa fleeces to wool coats. Definitely pack boots — I recommend a pair of booties, a pair of tall boots, and a pair of hiking boots — and some sneakers and comfy shoes for all the walking and driving you’re going to do. Accessories wise, bring a scarf and a hat in case it gets chilly!
What are the best spots to visit?
Every town is so charming, but I recommend hitting up Vermont and New Hampshire for the quintessential fall experience. Keep on reading for my favorite towns to visit!
Manchester, VT
Grab a maple latte from Charlie’s Coffee House and spend the morning exploring Northshire Bookstore. For a once in a lifetime experience, stay at this Airbnb that’s actually an alpaca farm! Not only was the place itself so cute, the alpacas were so friendly and adorable that I couldn’t help but play with them from across the fence.
Weston, VT
On your way to Woodstock, make a stop at Weston to visit the famous and original Vermont Country Store. This place is quite the tourist attraction, but there are so many unique Vermont and New England themed gifts inside. The rustic outdoor decor gives me all the country vibes!
Woodstock, VT
Woodstock was hands down my favorite stop of the trip. Their downtown looks straight out of Gilmore Girls — complete with gazebos and inns. While I didn’t have Sookie St. James as my chef, the food at Woodstock Inn was some of the best I’ve ever had. We ate there for both lunch and dinner! Be sure to get their autumn harvest salad for lunch and scallops + short rib for dinner… I still dream about them. Across the street you’ll find Woodstock Middle Bridge. There are tons of farms to explore just outside of downtown — Sleepy Hollow Farm has become Instagram-famous, but I actually recommend checking out other farms instead, such as Billings Farm. I highly recommend just driving around and wandering off the beaten path to see what hidden gems you discover. Case in point, this beautiful view we found off the side of the road!
Stowe, VT
Ah, Stowe. The postcard image of the fall in New England. From the little white church (best view is from the Salon Salon parking lot), to pumpkin patches (pick your own pumpkins at the patch next to Shaw’s Market), to the iconic Smuggler’s Notch scenic drive, there are photo-worthy spots around ever corner. Along the drive up Smuggler’s Notch, we came across the most peaceful pasture with horses. For dinner, I highly recommend Edson Hill — it has the coziest vibes and most delicious food! Their scallops and brussels sprouts are absolutely mouth watering. Be sure to make a stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill for the best apple cider donuts.
Franconia, NH
Make your way over to the White Mountains and Franconia Notch State Park, where you’ll find an unbelievable view from the top of Artists Bluff Trail. The hike is only 1.5 miles out and back, and you’ll be rewarded with the most breathtaking sight. Spend your afternoon exploring Flume Gorge for more beautiful scenery.
For those of you who prefer watching videos, check out these reels I made on the most beautiful spots for fall foliage in Vermont and New Hampshire!
I’m so happy that I finally got a chance to do a New England leaf-peeping trip, after living in the Northeast all my life. I can’t wait to go on more fall foliage road trips in the future. Be sure to bookmark this post for your next fall adventure!
