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New England Day Trips to See Fall Colors

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One of the absolute best places to see the fall foliage change their colors is in New England. We have rounded up the best ones for you to see this year. Take a plane, train, or automobile (or RV!) and check out these New England Day Trips to see a showcase of outstanding color.

New England Day Trips to See Fall Colors

New Hampshire to Vermont Along the Connecticut River (150 miles)

One of my personal absolute favorite drives in the US is along the Connecticut River. So much color, so little time! Seriously, if there is only one drive you take to see the fall color, this is hit. Both New Hampshire and Vermont have trees changing colors in various shades of yellow, orange, and vibrant reds. You will cross covered bridges, quaint towns, beautiful lakes, and many places to stop for a bite to eat or a duck into a museum to learn more about the local history.

Related: 10 Best Fall Vacations Ideas for Families

Vermont to New Hampshire and Into the White Mountains (71 miles)

Sometimes just driving through the beauty of fall is not enough. If that is, you then this is the adventure drive for you! Once you cross into New Hampshire on Route 3, stop in at Franconia Notch State Park and jump on the Cannon Aerial Tramway and ride that baby up the 4,200 summit of Cannon Mountain for some seriously amazing views. If you are a zipline junkie like me, then head over to Loon Mountain and fly through the trees for a close up of those gorgeous trees. When you hit Route 16, stop in North Conway and take the dinner train or aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad. What is better than taking in the beauty of New England than with a glass of wine in hand on a choo choo train?


DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: New England

New Hampshire to Maine (65 miles)

No list of New England day trips is complete without a trip to main (to get some lobster of course!) Once you are done getting your adventure on in Conway, it is time to head to Maine’s coastal area. Take Route 302 and be prepared to see some amazing color and enjoy a beautiful drive.
 
Stop in Naples and picnic by Long Lake where you can rent a kayak and enjoy the water or take a flight seeing tour to see the fall trees from the air. I’ve always been fascinated with locks, and the Songo Locks that connected Maine to the Atlantic Ocean is well worth a stop to see. Once you get to Portland, Maine, be prepared for a cute city with a vibrant foodie and craft beer scene.
 


Portland, Maine Chef’s Table: Extraordinary Recipes From Casco Bay

What are your favorite New England day trips?

 

Also, check out:

 Best New England Vacations – New England Vacation Ideas Perfect for Families

Top 16 Things to do in Salem MA – Explore The Salem Witch Trials

The Top 10 Things to Do in Boston

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