Fall Colors of New England 27

Day 1

Welcome Aboard! Sit back, relax, and take in the picturesque scenery as vibrant fall foliage lines every turn of the highway on our journey to "The Green Mountain State," Vermont. Upon arrival in Rutland, Vermont, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before checking in for a two-night stay at the Best Western Inn & Suites. Ideally situated amid the breathtaking mountain views of Killington, Vermont your accommodations provide the perfect setting to unwind and experience the beauty of Vermont in autumn.

Day 2

After breakfast we meet our step-on guide and depart for a full day of scenic Vermont sightseeing. Our first stop is the Green Mountain Sugar House in Ludlow, Vermont where the iconic bright red roof marks a true taste of Vermont tradition. Here, everything from award-winning maple syrup to mouthwatering maple fudge is produced. Browse the country gift shop, featuring a variety of maple treats, Vermont cheeses, and an array of locally made gifts and souvenirs. Be sure to enjoy a sample of pure Vermont maple syrup and try a maple creemee - a beloved local specialty. We then continue to the picturesque New England village of Woodstock, Vermont often referred to as "The Prettiest Town in North America." Enjoy free time to explore its charming streets, lined with quaint shops, local boutiques, art galleries, and inviting Main Street merchants. Take in the beauty of the covered bridge and admire the elegant Bed and Breakfast Inns, all conveniently located within walking distance. Lunch will be on your own while in Woodstock. This afternoon, we travel to Plymouth Notch, Vermont to visit the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site, the birthplace and boyhood home of our 30th President. Enjoy a self-guided tour through this well-preserved village, where interactive exhibits, photographs, personal artifacts, and historical displays bring President Coolidge's life and legacy to light. The site includes his birthplace, family homestead, one-room schoolhouse, general store, carriage barn, and museum. Before returning to the hotel, we stop at Quechee Gorge, Vermont, often called "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," for a scenic photo opportunity. Our day concludes with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, featuring the flavors of Vermont.

Day 3

After breakfast we meet our step-on guide and depart for "The Granite State," New Hampshire, for a full day of sightseeing. Our day begins with a scenic photo stop at one of New Hampshire's iconic covered bridges. We then continue to the vibrant downtown of Littleton, New Hampshire, where you will have leisure time to explore. At the heart of this charming community stands Pollyanna, a cheerful bronze statue honoring hometown author Eleanor H. Porter, creator of the beloved literary character. Littleton's eclectic downtown features a variety of architectural styles and offers an inviting mix of specialty shops, antiques, local boutiques, and dining options. Be sure to visit Chutters Candy Store, a longtime local favorite known for having the world's longest candy counter. Lunch will be on your own while in Littleton. This afternoon, we visit The Basin in Franconia Notch State Park, a natural granite formation carved over thousands of years by rushing water into a smooth, bowl-shaped cavity. Just below, you will also see another unique formation known as The Old Man's Foot. Continuing on, we travel to Lincoln, New Hampshire to board the Loon Mountain Gondola. Enjoy a ride on New Hampshire's longest aerial lift as we ascend to the 2,733-foot summit of Loon Peak, where breathtaking views of the White Mountains await. Our final highlight of the day takes us to Meredith, New Hampshire, where we board the Lake Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. Relax and enjoy a nostalgic rail journey along the shores of this beautiful lake while savoring a delicious roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings. This scenic excursion offers wonderful views of the sparkling water, along with glimpses of charming lakeside homes and cottages. Following our train ride, we continue to our overnight hotel in Bow, New Hampshire.

Day 4

After breakfast we depart for "The Pine Tree State," Maine. Upon arrival in Kennebunkport, Maine, we meet our step-on guide and embark on a guided tour of this charming coastal town. Highlights include views of elegant colonial mansions, a drive past the summer estate of former President George H.W. Bush on Walker's Point, and the famous Wedding Cake House, one of the area's most treasured landmarks. Following the tour, enjoy free time in Dock Square, where you can browse art galleries, unique shops, and inviting restaurants. Lunch will be on your own. This afternoon, we continue to Portland, Maine for a narrated Lighthouse Lovers Cruise. Sit back and relax as we travel through Portland Harbor and the surrounding islands, taking in scenic views of historic forts, working lobster boats, seals, and seabirds. During the cruise, you may see up to seven lighthouses, including close-up views of four, highlighted by Portland Head Light - Maine's oldest and most photographed lighthouse. Afterward, we check in for a two-night stay at the Best Western Merry Manor Inn in South Portland, Maine. There will be time to relax and freshen up before heading out for a traditional Downeast Maine Lobster Bake at a local restaurant, the perfect way to end your day along the coast.

Day 5

After breakfast we meet our step-on guide and depart for a guided tour of Portland, Maine's largest city, located on Casco Bay at the gateway to the "Rocky Coast of Maine." Our tour showcases Portland's beautifully preserved Victorian District, including views of the elegant "Victoria Mansion," often referred to as the grand dame of Portland architecture, as well as the historic Wadsworth-Longfellow House, home to four generations of one distinguished family whose contributions helped shape the political, literary, and cultural history of New England and the United States. We also view Portland's active working waterfront and the Casco Bay Islands, with a photo stop at Portland Harbor Lighthouse. Following the tour, enjoy free time in the revitalized Old Port district, known for its cobblestone streets, boutiques, galleries, and waterfront charm. Lunch will be on your own. This afternoon, we continue to Freeport, Maine, where you will have time to explore the town's well-known outlet shopping and specialty stores, including the flagship L.L. Bean store. Later, we travel to the Maine Mall in Portland for dinner on your own, offering a wide selection of restaurants and over one hundred retail stores. After dinner, we return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 6

After breakfast relax and enjoy a movie as we travel homeward. Take time to reflect on the highlights of your journey through New England, from its rich history and charming villages to its diverse landscapes of rolling farmland, majestic mountains, inland lakes, and rugged coastline. Recall the memorable train excursion, scenic lighthouse views, and fascinating maritime heritage that make this region so unique, bringing your New England adventure to a comfortable and enjoyable close.

B=Breakfast, D =Dinner