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The 10 Best Fall Foliage Train Rides in New England

From Maine to Connecticut, these scenic and historic railroads are the ideal setting for leaf peeping and fall foliage hunting.

From day trips to weekend getaways, our biweekly Traveler newsletter shows you the best of New England and beyond.

Conway Scenic Railroad photo by Brian Solomon, Conway Scenic Railroad

There are few things more quintessentially New England than days spent admiring the warm, vibrant hues of autumn leaves. A family apple picking trip isn’t complete without a colorful backdrop; an early-October walk isn’t the same without piles of crunchy leaves; and you just can’t have football games without fall foliage. Thankfully, the novelty of fall in the northeast somehow never seems to wear off, no matter how many times you experience it. Needless to say, it’s also one of the biggest draws to the area for tourists (aside from the Cape’s beaches in the summer and New Hampshire’s ski mountains in the winter).

This year, rather than taking a leaf peeping drive or a hike to enjoy the fall foliage, try soaking in the views from a train car instead. Historic railroads wind across every part of New England, and there’s no shortage of routes to take you through the autumnal wonderland that it becomes every fall. Specifically, these 10 train rides boast the best views possible—and some have even been named the best in the country —taking you through miles of scenic landscapes (and in some cases, offering gourmet meals to go along with them). From the White Mountains of New Hampshire to Cape Cod and Newport, on cog railways and restored steam engines, these train routes have front-row access to unrivaled views of the region’s most picturesque season.

Updated October 2023.

Connecticut

Essex steam train & riverboat.

Starting at the historic Essex Station, the Essex Steam Train travels through the Connecticut River Valley, offering uninterrupted views of foliage along the way. On the 2.5 hour round-trip ride, while seated inside vintage coaches pulled by a steam-powered locomotive, you’ll see changing leaves and wildlife on the tidal wetlands of Pratt Cove and Chester Creek. Partway through the trip, you’ll board the Becky Thatcher, a Mississippi-style riverboat, to cross the Connecticut River to Selden Neck State Park before making a return trip to the station. For a trip that’s more all-inclusive, the Essex Clipper Dinner Train (made of restored 1920s Pullman diner cars) provides the same views bathed in the colors of the season—but these ones are accompanied by a dinner of prime rib or ravioli.

Train and riverboat excursion $40-$60, Thursday-Monday in October; dinner train tickets $110, select dates in October; The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, 1 Railroad Ave., Essex, Connecticut, essexsteamtrain.com .

Massachusetts

Cape cod railroad.

In the fall, Cape Cod transforms from a summery vacationland into an autumnal escape. The Cape Cod Central Railroad winds through nearly 30 miles of marshes, cranberry bogs, dunes, and idyllic scenery from Hyannis to Buzzards Bay. Though the railroad doesn’t offer any fall foliage-specific rides, every one of its excursions essentially becomes a foliage tour once the leaves change. The classic Cape Cod train ride departs from Hyannis and takes you on a narrated two-hour afternoon tour all the way to Sandwich and the Cape Cod Canal. If you prefer to enjoy your scenic views over a meal, the Cape Cod Dinner Train features a five-course, gourmet meal served on white table linens, and the Sunday Brunch Train offers an a la carte menu including crepes and eggs benedict.

Afternoon train ride starting at $30, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays September-October; Dinner Train starting at $95, Thursday and Saturdays in October; Sunday Brunch Train starting at $65, in October; Hyannis Depot, 252 Main St., Hyannis, Massachusetts, capetrain.com . 

Hoosac Valley Train Ride

For a quicker (but no less beautiful) fall journey, try the Hoosac Valley Train Ride in Adams, Mass. The restored 1900s train departs from the Adams train station in Western Massachusetts, chugging through scenic rural landscapes that are ideal for autumnal leaf peeping. The hour-long, 10-mile round-trip excursion is open throughout the summer and fall, but the best time to go is in October for the “Fall Foliage” ride—when the leaves in the Berkshire Hills are at their peak. Though it’s a bit far from Boston, the views are worth the drive. While you’re making the journey out west, even the hills and trees along the Mass Pike are picturesque.

Children $12, adults $20, Saturdays and Sundays September-October; Adams Station, 4 Hoosac St., Adams, Massachusetts, berkshiretrains.org . 

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad

Running along the Eastern Promenade of Casco Bay in Portland, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad will take you on a leisurely 40-minute ride through some of Maine’s best scenery. Situated on narrow, two-foot-wide tracks (as opposed to the customary four-foot width), the small train is a quaint and cozy way to take advantage of the coastal view—which, in the fall, is awash with the bright hues of red and orange leaves. On the annual Pumpkin Train rides , kids can decorate pumpkins as the open-air carriages of the 100-year-old steam locomotive let in the crisp fall breeze. To round out the trip, don’t forget to stop by the beloved Holy Donut in the Old Port for apple-flavored seasonal donuts to warm up after your ride.

Children $9, adults $15, open every day for regular rides, and select dates in October for the Pumpkin Train ; Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum, 49 Thames St., Portland, Maine, mainenarrowgauge.org .

See also: 14 Must-Visit Restaurants in Portland, Maine

Cafe LaFayette Dinner Train image provided

New Hampshire

Cafe lafayette dinner train.

Through the windows of the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train—composed of restored 1950s rail cars decorated with vintage travel posters and luggage cases—the beauty of the White Mountains region is on full display. In the fall, the train is surrounded by walls of colorful forest as it chugs through the Pemi River Valley, after departing from North Woodstock. The two-hour ride passes through 20 miles of picturesque landscape (filled with bright crimson and amber foliage), over three trestle bridges and a Christmas tree farm—all of which you can enjoy while dining on a gourmet five-course, seasonal meal.

Starting at $99 per person, Thursday-Sunday September-October; Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train, 3 Crossing at River Place, North Woodstock, New Hampshire, nhdinnertrain.com .

Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Conway Scenic Railroad

Whether it’s a quick ride through the Conway Valley or a longer excursion over Crawford Notch, the Conway Scenic Railroad is surrounded by mountains covered in vibrant autumnal colors. Departing from the circa-1874 train station in North Conway on a select October weekend, the Pumpkin Patch ride —a shorter, hour-and-20-minute ride complete with pumpkins, apple cider, and donuts—takes you through miles of unmatched views, and is perfect for families. For those looking for something a bit longer, the Mountaineer train winds through the Mount Washington Valley, covering over 50 miles of supremely scenic forest and mountain over the course of five hours (with a layover at Crawford Depot, by Saco Lake). To enjoy the best views, book a premium class ticket in the glass-domed upper dining car.

Conway Valley Train, children starting at $17 and adults starting at $23, daily through October and Friday-Sunday in November; The Mountaineer, children starting at $60 and adults starting at $79, daily, select dates through November; North Conway Station, 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway, New Hampshire, conwayscenic.com .

Mt. Washington Cog Railway image provided

Mt. Washington Cog Railway

The Mt. Washington Cog Railway is one of the most well-known railways in New England—and for good reason. As the Cog climbs to the highest peak in the Northeast, you’re surrounded by breathtaking views of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. It’s beautiful at any time of year, but in the fall, the vibrant colors of the changing leaves are unmatched. Inside the cars of the coal-powered steam locomotive, you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the surrounding trees for 45 minutes as you ascend at a 25% grade. Stop at the top to warm up with a hot chocolate and a snack (as the average temperature in October is just 30 degrees) before beginning your descent back down the mountain.

Steam engine to the mid-mountain, $39 for children and $54 for adults; biodiesel train to the summit, $63 for children and $86 for adults, every day May-mid-October; biodiesel train to Skyline (halfway up the mountain), $46 for kids and $63 for adults, mid-October through the winter; Mount Washington Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Road, Mt. Washington, New Hampshire, thecog.com .

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s Fall Foliage Special is specifically curated for passengers to experience the best fall views that New Hampshire has to offer. Departing from Meredith Station in the morning, the four-hour excursion pulls out all the stops (literally). After trailing over the Ashland Summit, through a deer farm and Christmas tree farm, the train stops at the Common Man Inn & Spa in Plymouth for a buffet lunch. The second leg of the trip stops at the Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad Station for a guided tour of the historic 1800s station, and the third leg returns to Meredith Station. Each stop—and the entire ride in between—are ideal for leaf peeping.

Starting at $83, select dates in September and October; Meredith Station, 154 Main St., Meredith, New Hampshire, hoborr.com .

Image of Grand Bellevue Train provided

Rhode Island

The grand bellevue rail dining experience.

To experience Aquidneck Island how society’s elite used to—when they traveled to their vacation “homes” (read: mansions) in Newport—hop aboard the early-1900s-era trains on the Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad. Year-round, the railroad offers the Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience, an elegant dinner (paired with wine and cocktails) aboard 1940s dining cars. Over the course of the 2.5 hour ride, enjoy Narragansett Bay, the Sakonnet River, and lush fall views passing outside your window as the Grand Bellevue’s culinary team prepares your meals right on board. Plus, on the second leg of the trip back to the station, the sunset views over the water (and illuminating the bright colors of the fall leaves) are a must-see.

Tickets range from $90-$133, Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays until mid-November, no children under 12; Portsmouth Junction Station, 2 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth, Rhode Island, thegrandbell.com .

Champlain Valley Dinner Train Experience

The Vermont Rail System offers two fall tours: the Champlain Valley Dinner Train, a three-hour round trip from Burlington to Charlotte for ages five and above; and Cocktails on the Rails, a lower-cost seat in the Dinner Train’s 21+ lounge car that comes with snacks and live music, but no three-course meal. Either option offers resplendent views of Western Vermont’s lush and glowing leaves, but the lounge car can get a little saucier, if you’re lucky.

Begins at $198 for a shared table for two on the Dinner Train, ages 5 and up; $ 65 for Cocktails on the Rails, 21+ ; Vermont Rail System , 1 Railway Ln, Burlington, rails-vt.com .

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10 Scenic Train Rides That Show Off The Best Of New England's Fall Foliage

Catch these fall foliage train rides for gorgeous views of New England's autumnal scenery.

• New England's fall foliage displays are world-renowned, and scenic train rides provide unparalleled views of the vibrant colors from unique vantage points.
• Multiple scenic train routes in New England offer cheap and iconic ways for visitors to immerse themselves in the quintessential fall scenery.
• Scenic train rides in New England, such as the Mountaineer route and the Vermonter route, allow passengers to witness panoramic views of the surrounding fall foliage and experience the full scope of New England's fall beauty.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, New England becomes ablaze with the vibrant colors of fall . The region is world-renowned for its dazzling fall foliage displays, with hillsides blanketed in bright shades of red, orange, and yellow. One of the best ways for travelers to witness the incredible transition of New England's landscape in autumn is by riding on a scenic train .

Gliding past the tree-covered mountains and rolling countryside, scenic train rides offer unparalleled views of the fall foliage from unique vantage points. With multiple cheap routes traversing some of the most spectacular sections of New England , scenic autumn train rides are an iconic and memorable way for visitors to immerse themselves in the quintessential fall scenery.

RELATED: Which New England State Should You Travel To For Leaf Peeping this Fall?

10 Conway Scenic Railroad's Mountaineer In North Conway, New Hampshire

The Mountaineer route on the Conway Scenic Railroad takes travelers on a 55-minute journey through the scenic White Mountains of New Hampshire. Departing from North Conway and traveling through parts of the Mount Washington Valley, riders are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding fall foliage.

Highlights include the Moat Mountains, Echo Lake, and the Saco River, where vibrant hues reflect off the water. With floor-to-ceiling windows, passengers can truly soak in the lush colors blanketing the mountainsides from the comfortable seats of vintage coaches.

• Address: 38 Norcross Cir, North Conway, NH 03860
• Hours: The Mountaineer runs daily from late June through late October. Departures are at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.
• Tour Duration: 55 minutes
• Top Attractions: Views of Moat Mountains, Echo Lake, Saco River

9 The Vermonter From Springfield, Massachusetts, To White River Junction, Vermont

Operated by Amtrak, the Vermonter route takes travelers between Springfield, Massachusetts, and White River Junction, Vermont. This scenic trek passes through the Connecticut River Valley, treating passengers to gorgeous vistas of the rolling hills lit up in fall colors.

The peak foliage season is an ideal time to ride the Vermonter when fiery shades of red and orange take over the maple, birch, and oak trees lining the tracks. Favorite lookouts include the Berkshires region of western Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of southern Vermont.

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-September to early October for peak foliage season.
• Tour Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours between Springfield and White River Junction.
• Top Attractions: Berkshires region of western Massachusetts, Green Mountains of southern Vermont.

8 Mount Washington Cog Railway In New Hampshire

Ascending to the summit of the highest peak in the northeastern United States, the Mount Washington Cog Railway provides a thrilling vantage point for fall foliage.

As the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, riders are transported up steep grades in a specialized railcar. Panoramic views open up the higher the train climbs, where riders can see the fresh New Hampshire landscape ablaze in autumnal hues.

The vibrant colors of changing leaves on display throughout the White Mountains unfold below as the train makes its way above the treeline. It's a one-of-a-kind way to experience the full scope of New England's fall beauty.

• Hours: The railroad runs daily from mid-April to late November.
• Tour Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours to summit and back.
• Difficulty Level: Riding the train is easy, but the summit can be cold and windy.

RELATED: 10 Of The Least-Crowded Towns In New England To Catch Fall Foliage

7 Essex Steam Train & Riverboat In Connecticut

Offering a two-in-one adventure, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat in Connecticut begins with an antique steam train ride through the Valley Railroad. Covering 12 miles between Essex and Deep River, the train passes glorious vistas of the changing leaves.

The journey then continues onto the Becky Thatcher riverboat for a relaxing cruise along the Connecticut River. From aboard the paddle-wheeler, passengers can marvel at the fiery fall foliage reflected in the rippling waters.

Knowledgeable guides add historical context to this scenic double feature, which provides intimate views of Connecticut's most vibrant seasonal transition.

• Hours: Steam train and riverboat rides run daily, late May through late October.
• Tour Duration: Total experience is 2.5 hours, with 1.5 hours on the steam train and 1 hour on the riverboat.
• Top Attractions : Ride on a vintage steam train and riverboat, great scenery along the Connecticut River.

6 Cape Cod Railroad In Massachusetts

Traveling from Hyannis to Buzzard's Bay, the Cape Cod Railroad provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the Cape's natural beauty in autumn.

Seasonal Fall Foliage rides take place aboard vintage coaches equipped with large windows perfect for leaf peeping. As the train winds its way along the shoreline, passengers will see marshes turning red and gold and colorful cranberry bogs ready for harvest.

Picturesque lighthouses and quaint towns roll by, all part of the iconic New England backdrop. The Cape Cod Railroad is a laidback, nostalgic ride for soaking in mellow maritime scenery.

• Hours: Offers various excursions from mid-April through December. Fall foliage rides run weekends in October.
• Tour Duration: Varies by excursion, fall foliage rides are 2 hours.
• Top Attractions: Coastal scenery, marshes, cranberry bogs, lighthouses.

5 Hoosac Valley Train Ride In Massachusetts

Operating vintage diesel trains, the Hoosac Valley Railroad takes visitors on a ride through northwestern Massachusetts's scenic Berkshire Mountains. Their fall foliage rides provide front-row views of the rolling hills cloaked in vibrant, warm hues, with towering maples, beeches, and birches on full display.

As the train ambles along the Deerfield and Hoosic Rivers, reflections of the surrounding autumn colors shimmer in the water.

Passengers can sit back and soak up classic New England vistas of colonial homes, covered bridges, and quaint villages amidst the patchwork of fall colors streaming past their windows during this relaxing scenic excursion.

• Tour Duration: Rides range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on route.
• Top Attractions: Berkshire Mountains scenery, Hoosic and Deerfield Rivers.

4 Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad In Maine

Winding along the shores of Portland's inner Casco Bay, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad offers an intimate look at the fall foliage of Maine's coastline.

The short yet sweet 8-mile, 45-minute ride begins at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum, taking passengers through the communities of Portland and Falmouth.

Glimpses of the vibrantly colored Maples, Aspens, Oak trees, and more against the backdrop of the sparkling blue ocean make for quintessential New England scenery.

Lobstermen hauling traps and historic lighthouses add to the coastal charm of this leisurely trip aboard restored rail cars from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Hours: Offers excursions daily from late May through late October.
• Tour Duration: 8-mile, 2-hour ride.
• Top Attractions: Scenic Casco Bay views, glimpses of Portland and Falmouth.

RELATED: Boston To Portland, Maine: 10 Things To Do On This New England Road Trip

3 Downeast Scenic Railroad In Hancock, Maine

Located along Maine's picturesque Downeast coast, the Downeast Scenic Railroad provides a peaceful journey through fragile coastal habitat ablaze in fall. Its narrated Foliage Excursions showcase the vibrant hues of the sedges, sumac, and sweet fern native to the region's bogs and marshes.

Riders can appreciate the contrast between the russet cranberry bogs and the surrounding evergreen woodlands. The area's natural and cultural heritage is highlighted as the train passes rebuilt trestles and original granite quarries.

With views of Frenchman Bay and the distant Acadia National Park, this is an intimate look at autumn in Maine's wild frontier.

• Hours: Offers narrated fall foliage rides in October.
• Tour Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Top Attractions: Coastal marshes, cranberry bogs, Frenchman Bay.

2 Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience In Portsmouth, Rhode Island

The Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience combines fine dining with spectacular fall vistas, offering panoramic views of the scenic Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. The double-decker dining cars allow an elevated perspective, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing 270-degree views.

Passengers indulge in a gourmet three-course meal while watching aqua waves crest below and tree-covered islands go by.

Foliage cruises traverse colorful coastal villages, historic lighthouses, and Gilded Age estates that pop against the vibrant autumn landscape. It's the perfect opportunity to appreciate Rhode Island's natural splendor in refined style and comfort.

• Tour Duration: 3 hours, including the meal.
• Amenities: Fine dining in vintage railroad cars with panoramic views.

1 Amtrak's Ethan Allen Express, Which Travels Through New York And Vermont

The Ethan Allen Express operated by Amtrak provides a front-row look at autumn in upstate New York's Hudson Valley before crossing into Vermont.

Departing from New York City, the train passes through the Hudson Valley and the Green Mountains, where the hillsides turn ruby red and sunshine yellow. Entering Vermont, the Green Mountains' maples and birches showcase the state's iconic fall tapestry.

Rivers like the Mettawee and the Poultney reflect the saturated colors as the train rolls gently north.

• Hours: Runs daily between New York City and Rutland, Vermont.
• Best Time to Visit: September and October for foliage season.
• Tour Duration: 5.5 hours end-to-end.
• Top Attractions: Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains in New York, Green Mountains in Vermont .

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Fall Foliage in New England by Train

September 25, 2024 thru october 1, 2024.

Embark on a captivating week-long journey through New England. Begin in vibrant Boston, exploring its rich history and landmarks, then transition to the scenic beauty of Maine and New Hampshire. Revel in coastal tours, picturesque beaches, and a delectable lobster dinner. Experience the charm of vintage train rides through stunning landscapes, including the White Mountains and the famed Winnipesaukee Railroad. Dive into the Berkshires with its vibrant fall foliage, visit the iconic Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, and cap off your tour filled with the essence and charm of New England.

Transportation

Roundtrip Air Transportation

Several Train Rides

• Boat Ride on Lake Winnipesaukee

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level Rating

3: Moderate

Availability

13 Meals (6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners) included

Pickup/Dropoff

• Roundtrip door-to-door livery service

Tour director, driver & local guide tips included

Tour Highlights

• Guided Tour of Boston including Back Bay, Beacon Hill, USS Consitution “Old Ironsides”, JFK Library & Musuem, Quincy Market, etc.
• Train from Woburn to Wells, Maine
• Narrated Driving Tour of Kennebunk & Kennebunkport with sites such as Bush Estate at Walker’s Point & a Maine Lighthouse
• Lobster Dinner
• Wright Museum
• Winnipesaukee Railroad Turkey Dinner Train
• Drive through the White Mountains
• Conway Scenic Railway Train Ride
• Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train
• Fall Foliage Leaf-Peeper Tour in Berkshires
• Rockewell Museum
• Roundtrip air transportation from TUS
• Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
• 6 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels
• Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
• 13 meals (6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners)
• Admission to all listed attractions
• Your Professional Pleasurebent Tours Tour Director
• All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)

Day 1 - Arrive in Boston

Depart Tucson and arrive at Logan International Airport. Check into a Boston hotel. Your first night culminates in an independent dining experience at any of the hotel’s esteemed restaurants.

Day 2 - Boston Tour

Dive deep into Boston’s rich history with your local guide on a comprehensive city tour. Traverse iconic districts like the Back Bay, boasting intricate brownstones, and marvel at landmarks like Beacon Hill, the gold-domed state house, and the legendary Boston Common . Capture memories with a photo stop at the USS Constitution “Old Ironsides,” the oldest commissioned warship still afloat, and immerse yourself in the captivating narrative of the Kennedy years at the JFK Library and Museum. Hunger pangs? Savor an independent meal at Quincy Market, a historic hub buzzing with performers, ethnic foods, and over 100 shops. Continue your journey back in time at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Engage in reenactments, board tall ships, and view rare artifacts. Conclude your enlightening day with a delightful dinner of your choosing.

Meals included :  (B)

Day 3 - Explore Maine

Begin your day with breakfast at your Boston Hotel. Journey from Woburn to Wells, Maine by the Amtrak Downeaster, where a local guide awaits. Explore the coastal villages of Kennebunk & Kennebunkport on a narrated driving tour. Drive past the sandy beaches and rocky coastline, past the George Bush estate at Walker’s Point , and many other sites including a Maine Lighthouse. Enjoy an independent lunch at Dock Square and later, stroll through Perkins Cove and the scenic Marginal Way where you can sit and watch the surf or stroll over the pretty drawbridge to boutiques and bobbing lobster boats. Conclude the day at your hotel, followed by a lobster dinner.

Meals included:   (B, D)

Day 4 - Discover New Hampshire

Today we’ll explore New Hampshire. A boat ride on  Lake Winnipesaukee , one of the largest lakes enclosed in one state, and a short coach jaunt brings us to Wolfeboro, the oldest summer resort in America. We enjoy free time for lunch and shopping in Wolfeboro, then tour the Wright Museum with its fascinating exhibits about military and home life in World War II. In the late afternoon, we board the  Winnipesaukee Railroad Turkey Dinner Train . We enjoy delicious hot roast turkey with all the trimmings during our two-hour trip along the lake.

Meals included :  (B, D)

Day 5 - Adventure by Train

We take the Kancamagus Highway through the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. Mid-morning, we arrive at the Conway Scenic Railway to board of our train. We’ll travel on what was once the Maine Central Railroad’s famed Mountain Division line, on tracks that were laid in the 1870s. Enjoy some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the East as we travel through spectacular Crawford Notch – past sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and streams, panoramic mountain vistas, across Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge en route to Crawford Station. Tonight, we escape the ordinary and relive the romance of dining on the rails as we ride a restored Pullman dining car while enjoying an elegant 5-course dinner on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train.

Meals included:   (B, L, D)

Day 6 - Uncover Vermont

Today we travel by coach into the Berkshires via Vermont. After our included lunch at the Publyk House, we enjoy a visit to the Vermont Country Store, Purveyors of the Practical and Hard-to-Find. In today’s global economy, merchants at the Vermont Country Store search throughout the nation and abroad to find goods that fill the needs of American and international customers alike. We lunch at the Publyk House  in Bennington. Afterwards, check into your hotel and relax until dinner locally.

Meals included :  (B, L)

Day 7 - Farewell to Fall Foliage

It’s almost time to head home, but first we enjoy a Fall Foliage Leaf-peeper tour along the Berkshires scenic back country roads before arriving in  Stockbridge , a picture-postcard town, where  Norman Rockwell  lived and worked. We can explore the Rockwell Museum on our own, stop in the Red Lion Inn to view its extraordinary teapot collection, shop in Stockbridge’s many quaint shops and lunch before we head to the airport for our flight home filled with memories of the fabulous fall colors and wonderful New England.

Meals included:   (B)

Itinerary subject to change.

Boston was founded on September 17, 1630, by Puritan colonists from England and is one of the oldest United States cities.

Boston Common

Established in 1634, Boston Common is the oldest public park in the U.S.

Maine is famous for its lobster industry. It is the largest lobster-producing state in the United States, and Maine lobsters are highly prized for their taste and quality.

Vermont is renowned for its stunning fall foliage. The vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves make it a prime destination for leaf peepers in the fall.

Hotel Information

Encore boston harbor.

Everett, MA

Mountain Club on Loon

Lincoln, NH

Fairfield Inn

Great Barrington, MA

Package Pricing

$4,295 per person, double occupancy.

Deposit: $200

$5,025 per person

Single occupancy, final payment due:, june 18, 2024.

Deposit: n/a

Price Includes

• Roundtrip air transportation from ABQ • Transportation by deluxe motorcoach • Roundtrip door-to-door livery service • 6 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels • Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece) • 13 meals (6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinner) • Admission to all listed attractions • Your Professional Pleasurebent Tours Tour Director • All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)

Booking Policy

Final Payment: June 18, 2024

CANCELLATION FEES: 

• None through June 18, 2024
• $200 – June 19 – July 23, 2024
• $2,400 – July 24 – August 20, 2024
• 100% After August 20, 2024

In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.

Please click here for more information.

ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING

Level 3: Moderate

Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking. There will be time to rest on the coach and between attractions. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.

Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion.

For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.

The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.

AIRLINE TICKETS

You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Tucson International Airport. If you have a frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation. If you are joining the tour from locations other than Tucson, we make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.

We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carry on baggage and contents due to enhanced security.

CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES

On our scheduled airline for this tour, passengers are assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.

GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE

All hotel baggage handling fees are included. We also include basic gratuities for the Tour Director, Coach Driver, Livery Drivers and local Tour Guides. If someone has truly gone above and beyond additional tipping is permitted, but never required.

For your convenience, we have a (round-tour) door-to-door pickup service with each multi-day tour. (This service is not available to all clients depending on your location.) Approximately 2 to 3 days prior to the departure date you will receive a call from our office and we will tell you your assigned pickup time. (These times can vary up to 15 minutes depending on traffic.)

LODGING REQUESTS

If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.

Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.

TRAVEL REQUESTS

We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.

RESPONSIBILITY

Pleasurebent Tours acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.

WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS

The weather in New England, United States in late September can vary, but generally, it is a beautiful time to visit the region with pleasant fall conditions. Here's what you can typically expect:

Temperature: Daytime temperatures can range from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24 degrees Celsius). However, it can get cooler in the evenings, with temperatures dropping into the 50s or even the 40s (10-15 degrees Celsius).

Fall Foliage: Late September is the beginning of the fall foliage season in New England. The leaves on the trees start to change colors, creating vibrant landscapes of red, orange, and yellow.

Rainfall: Rainfall can vary, but it's not typically a very rainy month. You might encounter occasional showers or overcast days, so it's a good idea to be prepared for some wet weather.

Humidity: Humidity levels tend to decrease compared to the summer months, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Clothing: It's best to dress in layers for your comfort. Be sure to wear shoes that are appropriate for walking on various terrain.

Keep in mind that weather can vary from year to year, so it's a good idea to check a local weather forecast as your travel dates approach for more accurate and up-to-date information.

Inquire About This Tour

Submit your inquiry for more information about a tour. We will get back to you with a (human) response as soon as possible. During the week that’s usually within a couple of hours. Evenings and weekends may take us a little bit longer. Please note that this is an inquiry for tour bookings only and does not constitute or confirm a reservation on a tour.

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10 Scenic New England Train Rides That Showcase The Fall Foliage

From Mount Washington to the White Mountains and beyond, New England's train routes offer some of the most stunning vantage points for fall foliage ablaze .

A scenic train ride through the New England countryside is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to bask in the glory of the picturesque foliage. With someone else in the driver’s seat, you can fully enjoy the magnificent views of foliage from Massachusetts to Maine and beyond.

There are multiple affordable routes rolling along the world-renowned fall foliage towns like Stowe, Vermont and the New Hampshire White Mountains . Both of which are some of the best locations in the world to admire the changing leaves.

1. Conway Scenic Railroad; North Conway, New Hampshire

From a quick 1-hour trip to a 5.5-hour voyage, the Conway Scenic Railroad offers various trips to enjoy the foliage. You’ll get a front row seat to White Mountain’s trees ablaze!

2. The Vermonter; Springfield, Massachusetts

This train starts in Springfield, a town about 1 hour west of Boston, and voyages to White River Junction in Vermont. It’s operated by Amtrak, so it’s easy to book online. This part of New England reaches peak earlier than Boston, so it’s best to travel between late September and mid-October.

3. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat; Essex, Connecticut

This amphibian voyage offers vantage points from a vintage steam train, finished with a ride along the Connecticut River. Enjoy the glorious changing leaves of the Connecticut valleys. The trip is 2.5 hours total , 1.5 hours on a steam train with 1 hour on the water.

4. Mount Washington Cog Railway; New Hampshire

Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast. This railway is unique in that it travels vertically at an incline-climbing up the mountain. The higher it goes, the better the views!

5. Hoosac Valley Train; Berkshires, Massachusetts

This scenic train ride travels through Western Massachusetts’ Berkshire Mountains . Catch glowing maples, birch, and beech trees ablaze.

6. Cape Cod Scenic Railway

Who said the Cape is only for the summer? Founded in 1861, this train feels like the Orient Express and even does a “Polar Express” themed train in the winter.

7. Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad; Portland, Maine

Catch a mix of waves and trees on this scenic railroad that goes past Portland’s Casco Bay. You might even catch some Lobster catchers hauling traps and the gorgeous lighthouses of Maine.

8. Downeast Scenic Railroad; Ellsworth, Maine

Catch stunning views of Maine’s iconic Acadia National Park . In the fall you’ll see gorgeous foliage and in winter, you’ll catch cranberry bogs.

9. Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience; Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Want dinner and show? This picturesque trip through Narragansett Bay and past historic estates also comes with a yummy meal on board this double-decker train.

10. Ethan Allen Express; Rutland, Vermont

This Amtrak train travels past the famed Green Mountains of Vermont, and Mettawee and the Poultney rivers. You’ll also catch a glimpse of upstate New York on this gorgeous voyage.

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

10 train trips to experience New England’s fall foliage in style

Let the romance of rail travel enhance the autumn colors, from the maine coast to the quiet corner of connecticut..

T he hatchwork of New England highways could almost make you forget that early leaf peepers often arrived not by auto but by rail. These post-Civil War tourists traveled in greater comfort than the hikers and painters who came by wagon and horseback a generation earlier.

Rail remains a good way to enjoy our region’s legendary autumnal extravaganza. No one has to keep their eyes on the road, and you get to share the experience with a coach full of fellow travelers; as spectacular stands of bright trees appear out the windows, the oohs and aahs are contagious. The clacking rattle of steel wheels on steel rails creates a lulling percussive soundtrack.

Here are 10 train trips around New England tailor-made for viewing foliage. Book early — excursions can sell out.

1. Conway Scenic Railroad’s Mountaineer in North Conway, New Hampshire

The train station in North Conway, New Hampshire, erected in 1874, is hard to miss. After all, the village was built around it. Now it’s home to the Conway Scenic Railroad, which offers a foliage excursion on the Mountaineer, a train assembled of 1950s streamline-style cars. They include two glass-domed dining cars so passengers can take in the panoramic vistas. Taking 4 to 5½ hours roundtrip, the train winds up the slopes of the Presidential Range, culminating in a passage over Crawford Notch.

The rails closely parallel Route 302, a road built to follow the tracks rather than vice versa. But for the last few miles, the train has better views of the rugged landscape. It rattles over the high, curving Frankenstein Trestle and the Willey Brook Bridge, which seems to cling to the mountain slopes. The rocky crags and waterfalls along this steep stretch evoke the drama of the Rockies — but much closer to home. If you’re more interested in mountain vistas than fall foliage, the Mountaineer runs through late November.

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Details: Through November 21 (603-356-5251; conwayscenic.com ). Adult fares from $76; dome dining class from $182 plus lunch.

2. The Vermonter from Springfield, Massachusetts, to White River Junction, Vermont

Amtrak’s Vermonter actually begins in Washington, D.C., and ends near the Canadian border in St. Albans, Vermont. This daily passenger train isn’t marketed as a foliage tour, but the three-hour stretch from Springfield, Massachusetts, to White River Junction, Vermont, is one of the most colorful autumn journeys in New England. Departure times dictate making the round trip over at least two days. Find seats on the same side of the train so that whatever you miss going north, you’ll see heading south.

The train, which follows the tracks of 19th-century railroads through the Connecticut River Valley, pulls out of Springfield in midafternoon, and stops briefly in downtown Holyoke. It quickly leaves urban congestion behind, passing below the wooded hills of the Mount Tom Range. The Vermonter comes into its glory as it zips through the golden farmlands north of Northampton. Blazing red sugar maples dapple the fields as the train speeds through Hatfield, Whately, and Deerfield, on to Greenfield.

The rail line swings east toward Northfield to join the tracks once shared with the Central Vermont Railway. The rails hew close to the Connecticut River. North of Brattleboro, Vermont, you’ll cross the river twice on sturdy bridges between Vermont and New Hampshire. The second bridge crosses downstream from the 1866 Cornish-Windsor bridge, the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States. Look for it on the right-hand side of the northbound train. If you’re on the left, you’ll get a postcard vista of the mottled dark green and flaming orange hillside of Mount Ascutney; pretty soon you’ll see your own covered bridge — the twin bridges over the Ottauquechee River, where the water tumbles down to join the Connecticut.

The Vermonter pulls into the depot at White River Junction near sunset. An old steam locomotive stands silently next to the platform. The Hotel Coolidge (802-295-3118; hotelcoolidge.com ; foliage season rates from $149), a historic railroad hotel, is just across the way on South Main Street. The Vermonter heads south the next day a little before noon. As you ride back to Springfield, you’ll be surprised at how much you missed on the way up.

Details: The Vermonter (800-USA-RAIL; amtrak.com ) runs northbound daily at 3:15 p.m., southbound from White River Junction daily at 11:37 a.m. Adult fares from $31 each way.

3. Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad in Meredith, New Hampshire

The Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad traverses tracks built for the Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad of the mid-19th century. You won’t make it to Concord — let alone Montreal or Boston — on the four-hour Fall Foliage Special excursion. But you will get a sweet taste of railroad history. Locomotives pull a variety of vintage cars, which might include a 1920s red-sided Lackawanna passenger car or a luxurious Pullman car redesigned for “presidential class” seating. After departing Meredith on the edge of Lake Winnipesaukee, the train passes over a high trestle and follows a branch of the Pemigewasset River north into Plymouth. You’ll disembark for a buffet turkey dinner at the Common Man Inn & Spa, located in a former wood mill. On the return trip, the train pauses at the 1869 station in Ashland, which has been restored as a museum. Guides in period garb give tours about the historic rail line. Don’t be disappointed if you’ve booked a damp day. Trains run rain or shine, and the muted light actually makes the bright foliage pop.

Details: Through October 22 (603-745-2135; hoborr.com ). Adult fares from $83.

4. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat in Essex, Connecticut

The Connecticut River assumes a grand majesty as it broadens to meet Long Island Sound. On this 2½-hour excursion by train and boat, you’ll get two perspectives on this region of woodlands, wetlands, and marshes — and the river itself. From Essex, a steam locomotive pulls vintage rail coaches, including a circa-1930 parlor car with swivel seats. The train tunnels through foliage on its way north toward Haddam. At the tidal marshes of Pratt Cove and Chester Creek, you’re likely to see herons, egrets, ducks, and swans. Breezes blow through the open windows and the clickety-clack of the wheels on the rails is mesmerizing.

At Deep River Landing, you’ll change vantage point as you board the Becky Thatcher, a multi-deck, Mississippi-style riverboat, for an hour-plus of cruising the river near Gillette Castle. You’ll cross paths with the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, cruise past the towering Goodspeed Opera House, and behold the foliage-tipped cliffs of the river gorge before returning to Deep River to reboard the train to Essex.

Details: Through October 27 (860-767-0103; essexsteamtrain.com ). Adult fares from $45.

5. Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis

Cape Cod’s unique geology and coastal ecology put a different spin on foliage season. Bronze oaks and golden marsh grasses create the signature colors, but be on the lookout for bright pops of red from thickets of sumac and the Cape’s famed cranberry bogs. From the Hyannis depot, the Cape Cod Excursion train crosses the rural countryside dotted with kettle ponds and bogs. When it reaches the bay side of the peninsula, it veers south of Barnstable Village to shoot through the salt meadows of the Great Marsh, where you might spot dozens of egrets fishing the shallows. After passing through Sandwich — where the glass industry first brought train service to the Cape — the tracks trace the south side of the Cape Cod Canal to a turnaround near the Bourne railroad bridge. On the approximately 2½-hour journey, staff guides provide insight on the fascinating coastal ecology. (A shorter trip leaves from West Barnstable, on Saturdays only.) Equipment will vary, but premium class features full-length dome cars. For ages 21-plus, there’s a swanky club car with a leather-wrapped bar.

Details: Through October 21 (888-797-7245; capetrain.com ). Adult fares from $29.99.

6. Downeast Scenic Railroad in Hancock, Maine

When wealthy rusticators from the big cities of the Eastern Seaboard visited their “summer cottages” on Mount Desert Island, many of them arrived in comfort and style on the Bar Harbor Express, which operated from 1902 to 1960. You can retrace some of the history of early Maine tourism aboard the Downeast Scenic Railroad. The trip begins at the railroad’s Washington Junction yard in Hancock, where volunteers work to restore vintage rolling stock. The locomotives themselves may be postwar diesel engines, but they haul lovingly restored early-20th-century wooden coaches as well as a 1904 “combine” car (half seating, half baggage). The railroad also offers an open car with picnic-table seating under an awning. Snacks are sold on the train, but you can also bring your own food. As you tunnel through a wooded landscape of bright maple, birch, and oak foliage, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels evokes the late-19th century, when this 12-mile stretch of historic track was first laid. Rail buffs often find the three-point turnaround at the outset to be one of the more unusual aspects of this 1 hour 45 minute trip.

Details: Through October 9 (866-449-7245; downeastscenicrail.org ). Adult fares from $20.

7. Champlain Valley Dinner Train in Burlington, Vermont

Weekend excursions on the Champlain Valley Dinner Train certainly begin in style. The same architect who designed Burlington’s Beaux-Arts Union Station also created Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal. You’ll take your seat at a table for four in the elegant 1930s dining cars originally built for the Santa Fe Railway. (For an extra charge, you can reserve a private table.) The measured three-hour roll down and back along the Champlain Valley reveals quintessential vistas of Vermont — the Burlington waterfront, the broad expanse of Lake Champlain, and fields of rolling farmland. The prevalence of sugar maples in this northerly farm country guarantees such a bright show of red, yellow, orange, and even purple foliage that the line adds extra days to its schedule from late September through October. The three-course dinner with multiple choices of entrée (including a vegetarian option) is prepared on the train’s kitchen car, which once belonged to a traveling circus.

Details: Through October 28 (800-707-3530; rails-vt.com ). Reserve seating for two at a shared table for $198, with dinner.

8. Mount Washington Cog Railway on Mount Washington, New Hampshire

The Mount Washington Cog Railway began service to the 6,288-foot summit in 1869. In the Gilded Age, people flocked to New Hampshire to ride Sylvester Marsh’s “railway to the moon.” Nowadays, old-fashioned steam engines alternate with biodiesel locomotives for the three-hour round trip on the mountain’s western slope. It’s a thrill to chug up the steep incline locked into the rack-and-pinion railway, a technology pioneered here.

Views from New England’s highest mountain are spectacular, especially in the crisp fall air. To get the full panorama, choose the summit trip (through October 15). From the observation deck at the top, Mount Washington Valley and the mountains of Maine spread out to the east. Even on the 90-minute trip to Waumbek station at 3,900 feet, a clear day affords views to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and to the Quebec border. Either vantage offers a real eagle’s eye view of autumn: the valley floor’s carpet of red and yellow maples and birches set against the red-roofed majesty of the Omni Mount Washington Resort, one of the last survivors of the age of White Mountain grand hotels.

Details: Summit trips run from late April through mid-October; Waumbek runs year-round (800-922-8825; thecog.com ). Adult fares from $54 (Waumbek); $74 (summit).

9. Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience in Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Unlike the mountain foliage trains of inland New England, the Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience combines striking maritime views with the red and orange foliage that dominates the northern third of Aquidneck Island. From the Portsmouth station, the three-car train sets a stately pace north as chefs in the kitchen car prepare the four-course dinners. Guests choose between two refurbished 1948 dining cars. Theater buffs prefer the Murder Mystery experience on the Atlantic Rose, where a whodunit accompanies the meal. If you’re more interested in keeping an eye on the scenery, opt for the wood-trimmed Aquidneck Spruce dining car. On the 2½-hour journey, the track follows the shore of Narragansett Bay, periodically rolling through groves of trees that mask nearby roads from view. After passing beneath the arching Mount Hope Bridge, the train pivots east toward Tiverton. When it reaches the foot of the rail bridge across the Sakonnet River, the Grand Bellevue pauses so diners can take in the water views on both sides while they enjoy their entrées.

Details: Through November 11 (401-295-1203; thegrandbell.com ). Adult fares from $99.95 include dinner.

10. MAINE BY TRAIN

By Erinne Magee

As a lifelong Mainer, I wait each year for that period from late summer through early fall when the mornings are crisp but the midday sun has you tying your flannel around your waist — a Bean Boot in two seasons.

The spectrum of autumn colors is never the same from year to year, which means that each drive through New England in the fall is like seeing it for the first time. But when it comes to catching a glimpse of foliage, riding the rail adds another layer of romance to the journey. A fall getaway without the worry of traffic, parking, or stopping for gas makes the Amtrak Downeaster (800-872-7245; amtrakdowneaster.com ) an ideal way to see Maine in all its autumnal splendor.

The coastal and southern parts of Maine are the last in the state to be brushed with color, with the first tinges starting in early October and often lasting to the end of the month. When traveling north from Boston, grab a seat on the right side of the train for the most colorful sights.

From Boston to Brunswick, Maine, the last stop for the Downeaster, travelers can expect a journey just under 3½ hours costing $25 to $30 for adult passengers (children and seniors ride for 50 percent of the adult price). For those who prefer a hop-on, hop-off vacation, one way fares between towns range from $3 to $30. While many of the stops are within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and leaf peeping, those looking to go a little farther can bring a bicycle on board for an additional fee ($3 to $8 per ride), with advance registration.

Just across the New Hampshire border, Wells is the first Maine stop for the Downeaster. Wells is one of the state’s most beautiful beach towns, but it’s not easy to get around by foot. Wells Beach and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge (207-646-9226; fws.gov/refuge/rachel-carson ) are both within a 10 minute Uber ride (or roughly 20 minutes biking) from the station. Open year-round, the Maine Diner (207-646-4441; mainediner.com ), featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and Today, is a must. Visitors come from all over for the homestyle cooking, especially the seafood chowder and lobster pie.

The second stop sits along the Saco River with easy access to a pedestrian bridge connecting Saco and Biddeford. Stretching your legs along the Biddeford RiverWalk offers picturesque scenes of the revitalized mill town. These historic brick buildings now house restaurants, hotels, shops, and cafes. Pop into The Lincoln Hotel for a bite and sip at Batson River Brewing & Distilling (207-815-3980; batsonriver.com/biddeford-maine ) or unwind at Elements (207-710-2011; elementsbookscoffeebeer.com ), a unique local bookstore with craft beer, coffee from its own roastery, and regular events including a rotating art exhibition.

OLD ORCHARD BEACH

With the buzz of summer tourists winding down this time of year, there’s something special about strolling the pier (which is steps away from the station) watching visitors take in the last of summer. Though the Palace Playland (207-934-2001; palaceplayland.com ) rides wrap up on Labor Day, the arcade is open through mid-October, letting that Coney Island vibe linger. This is a seasonal stop, only running from May through October (like many of Old Orchard Beach businesses).

While the heart of the city is not walkable from the Amtrak station, a 10 minute taxi or rideshare trip there will usually run around $10. Portland’s bus, the Metro, also picks up from the station and has several stops through the downtown area, making it easy to pop into art galleries and museums, local breweries, and boutiques. Even if you’re just breaking for a meal before continuing your train ride, Portland is a foodie’s dream. Consider Luke’s Lobster (207-292-5946; lukeslobster.com/pages/portland-pier ), on the water where you can watch fishermen pull in the day’s haul. Those looking for something other than seafood can head down the street to Solo Italiano (207-780-0227; soloitalianorestaurant.com ). Or, check out the Eastern Promenade, where food trucks have something for every taste bud.

Yes, this is a shopper’s paradise, thanks in part to the long stretch of more than 120 retailers, including many outlet stores. But, its most famous store makes Freeport a town for adventurers as well. L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery programs (888-552-3261; llbeanoutdoors.com ) are a great way to experience autumn through some guided fun. Birding tours, archery courses, fly-casting, and paddleboarding are among the activities in town. Or, for ultimate foliage viewing, catch a ride to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park (207-287-3200; maine.gov/wolfesneckwoods ) for easy hiking trails and views of Casco Bay.

A picturesque college town, Brunswick is a place to soak up culture without the crowds of Portland. Walk just a quarter of a mile from the station, and you’ll be at “the mall,” a grassy park with twice-weekly farmers markets through November. Since you’ve reached the end of the Amtrak line, rest your head at OneSixtyFive (207-729-4914; onesixtyfivemaine.com ), a historic inn with a variety of charming rooms and suites (from $209 for a midweek stay). The breakfast is so good that even locals stop by to kick off their day with wild blueberry pancakes or house-made granola. Less than a mile away, check out the Swinging Bridge, a pedestrian suspension bridge with breathtaking views of foliage.

Patricia Harris and David Lyon are frequent contributors to the Globe Magazine. Erinne Magee is a Maine-based writer and author of This Is Camp: Poems and Stories About Maine’s Most Celebrated Getaway. Send comments to [email protected] .

Excursion Trains in New England

Excursion trains provide a round-trip sightseeing experience. Explore New England’s mountains, fall foliage, river valleys and wildlife from the comfort of an old-time train with full amenities. Seasonal train excursions celebrate fall foliage , Halloween, and the holidays. These family-friendly trips through scenic, historic routes offer a variety of seating and dining options, special events for kids, and a vintage journey through nature’s beauty.

Quick Links :

Scenic RailRiders

188 Sewalls Falls Road Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-931-1700

Traveling the rails on custom-built “bikes” is like a scenic train trip without the noise of a train

Railroad Museum of New England

242 East Main Street Thomaston, CT, 06787 Phone: 860-283-7245

Treat yourself to a themed or scenic tour aboard a vintage steam or diesel train

Conway Scenic Railroad

38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-5251 Toll-Free: 800-232-5251

Excursion trains on scenic railroad provide passengers with the feeling of relaxed railroad travel

Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

3 Crossing at Riverplace North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-3500

Escape from ordinary excursions when you travel aboard this elegant dinner train

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

One Railroad Avenue Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-0103 Toll-Free: 800-377-3987

Make tracks into the past and enjoy scenic vistas aboard vintage steam train

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Off Route 302 Bretton Woods, NH, 03589 Phone: 603-278-5404 Toll-Free: 800-922-8825

You’ll learn a little history and take some amazing pictures when you travel this cog railroad

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4 Scenic Amtrak Routes for Stunning Views of Fall Foliage

By Jessica Puckett

A train journey is an ideal way to appreciate fall foliage. Many train lines in the US wind along the same dazzling forests, lakes, and mountains as scenic byways built for cars. But passengers on board a train have the luxury of cozying up and losing themselves completely in the colorful views, without needing to worry about surrounding traffic.

There are several Amtrak routes that offer the chance to travel to the best fall foliage destinations in the country. Along the way, drink in the sight of bright red, orange, and yellow hues dotting the trees that line the tracks, creating the perfect backdrop to set the mood for fall travel.

What is the best time to plan a fall foliage train trip?

Don’t forget that when planning a fall foliage trip, timing is key. You’ll want to visit your destination of choice when the changing leaves are decked out in their peak colors. There are several reliable online tools for predicting when the leaves will be the most vibrant. If you’re not sure where you want to visit, start with the Smoky Mountains fall foliage map , which shows predictions for the progression of the entire country’s leaves based on date. Another good choice is the Farmer’s Almanac , which lists the dates each state is predicted to have the brightest leaves.

Here are the best Amtrak routes and destinations for an unforgettable fall foliage trip.

Train line: Vermonter

On its way from Washington DC to St. Albans, Vermont, Amtrak’s Vermonter train ambles through lush northeastern forests and charming small towns. (The entire 13-hour journey crosses nine states, from the Mid-Atlantic to New England.) Once in Vermont, you’ll have your pick of picturesque villages with plenty of fiery trees to view.

The first stop in Vermont would be a solid choice for a weekend getaway: the historic town of Battleboro . This pretty hamlet sits right on the Connecticut river in the foothills of the Green Mountains, so expect undulating blankets of colorful foliage in every direction. The train station is right in town, so most activities and amenities are accessible by foot. Stop by a local café or browse the shops lining Main Street. Rent a kayak from one of the local outfitters and gaze over the water toward hills filled with vibrant leaves. Or head to nearby Fort Dummer State Park (about a 45-minute walk along South Main Street) for easy hiking trails and lookout points over crimson-tinged maple, oak, and birch trees.

Peak time for foliage : Early to mid-October

Train line: Downeaster

Amtrak’s Downeaster line weaves north from Boston through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, where it ends in the city of Brunswick. Expect smatterings of New England leaves to be on display throughout the journey.

Hop off the train in Portland, about a two-hour ride from Boston. While there’s plenty to do in the city itself, we recommend taking a quick 15-minute ferry ride across Casco Bay to Peaks Island . The quaint island can be navigated by visitors without a car. Grab a bike or a golf cart at one of the rental shops in town or simply use your own two feet: the area is quite walkable. There’s one hotel on the island, The Inn on Peaks Island , and plenty of waterfront dining, making it a great choice for a quick overnight or weekend stay.

Take a bike ride around the two-mile island loop to absorb the incredible views. The island has a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, so you’ll get to see bursts of oranges and rubies as well as rich, dark greens, all set against a sparkling waterfront.

Peak time for foliage: Mid- to late October

Wisconsin Dells

Train line: Empire Builder

As Amtrak’s Empire Builder stretches from Chicago, across all of the Upper Midwest, and into Washington state, it offers plenty of foliage-centric destinations to choose from. Just under a four-hour ride from Chicago is a perfect locale for soaking in autumn’s glory: Wisconsin Dells.

Head to Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area for views of trees in their seasonal finery among numerous pines and set against Cambrian sandstone cliffs, canyons, and unique rock formations. Back in the center of town, a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Walk offers a chance to behold the bursts of color while weaving your way along the water.

Unwind from all that hiking at one of the area’s local breweries— Sundara Inn & Spa , one of the first destination spas in the Midwest with treatments like Reiki and CBD massages.

Peak time for foliage: Mid-October

Charlottesville, Virginia

Train line: Cardinal

Whisking passengers through the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, the Cardinal train offers a visual feast of fall colors. The U-shaped route curves down from New York City, swooping through 11 states and the District of Columbia before terminating in Chicago.

Charlottesville, Virginia, is a stop along the way that’s perfectly situated for reveling in autumnal scenery. Seated smack dab in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city is a fall wonderland come October. There are plenty of places in town to spot vibrant leaves, including the bosky campus of the University of Virginia and the historic Downtown Mall, which is pedestrian-only. But for the true leaf-peeping extravaganza, you’ll want to rent a car and head to Shenandoah National Park , about an hour’s drive away. Hike the easy 1.6-mile Stony Man loop to an awe-inspiring lookout point with a vista of the rolling hills of deciduous trees all around.

Peak time for foliage : Mid- to late October

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New England Fall Foliage

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New England fall foliage train tours

North conway, new hampshire.

Conway Scenic Railway , North Conway, New Hampshire CSRR’s Notch Train travels through the heart of the White Mountains. A separate Valley Train explores the countryside with trips to Conway and Bartlett. Highlights include dining cars on both routes and the first-class Notch dome car.

Hobo Railroad, Lincoln, New Hampshire The “Hobo” trails along the Pemigewasset River on a memorable journey through the heart of the White Mountains.

Cog Railway, The Mount Washington Cog Railway Passengers will experience a sense of adventure and history on the Mount Washington Cog Railway’s 3-hour guided train tour to the highest peak in the Northeast. With approximately one hour to spend at the 6,288-foot summit, visitors can take in the spectacular panoramic view, spanning the mountains and valleys of New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, north into Canada, and east to the Atlantic Ocean.

Green Mountain Railroad

White River Junction, Vermont

The White Mountain foothills form the backdrop for trains rolling through the Connecticut River’s picturesque Upper Valley enroute to Norwich and the Montshire Museum of Science.

Massachusetts

Berkshires rr.

Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum

Lenox, Massachusetts amid the rustic beauty of the Berkshire Hills, the BSR meanders through the Housatonic Valley linking the old towns of Stockbridge, Lee, and Lenox

Cape Cod Central Railroad, Hyannis, Massachusetts Sand dunes and cranberry bogs skirt this historic route between Hyannis and the Cape Cod Canal.

Come explore all the Cape Cod Central Railroad has to offer. Cape Train is conveniently located at the Buzzards Bay and Hyannis train stations in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, along the coast of New England. We are located about 40 minutes south of Plymouth and an hour from Provincetown. We run rain or shine. All aboard!

Edaville RR, Edaville USA

Carver, Massachusetts ( read about it here )

America’s oldest 24-in/70-cm narrow-gauge railway is part of a family fun park located on a 1500-acre/600-hectare cranberry plantation. A note about Edaville USA, generally Columbus Day weekend or the weekend after is their cranberry festival where you can take the train and see the foliage and the red cranberries being harvested. Sometimes they might run their steam engine on the run, which is better. Also, the town of Carver is a quaint little New England town, well worth exploring with 2 white-steepled churches and some historic homes.

Brooks Preservation in Brooks, Maine The Brooks Preservation Society operates excursions to Waldo along a 6 mi/10 km segment of scenic railway rich in Downeast history.

Railway Village, Boothbay, Maine A narrow-gauge coal-fired steam train shares billing with a livery of historic automobiles adding special authenticity and charm to this re-created New England village .

Connecticut

Essex, connecticut.

Essex Steam Train — Valley Railroad Essex Steam Train & Riverboat’s 2 1/2-hour train and riverboat or 1-hour train-only journeys begin at the historic 1892 Essex Station for a 12-mile, narrated round-trip into the heart of the unspoiled Connecticut River Valley.  The steam locomotive pulls vintage coaches through the quintessential New England towns of Deep River and Chester.

Thomaston, Connecticut NRR passengers relax in restored vintage 1920s coaches while crisscrossing the Naugatuck River on its 20-mi/32-km circuit through Mattatuck Forest.

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A note about Edaville USA, Jeff generally Columbus Day weekend or the weekend after is their cranberry festival where you can take the train and see foliage and the red cranberries being harvested. Sometimes they might their steam engine on the run, which is better. Also the town of Carver is a quaint little New England town, well worth exploring with 2 white steepled churches and some historic homes.

Thanks Mark, I’ve gone down to Carver a few times but only once during the Mid October time when the Cranberries are being harvested. (a great time to go down there BTW…) There is so much to see and do in New England I tend to miss something every year but I try the next year to hit what I missed in the previous yr. If you don’t mind I’m going to add your comment on my train page. If you have a link you want included with your comment let me know… 🙂 Credit where credit is due. 🙂

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New England Guided Tours

New England Fall Foliage Tours

Your Guide to the Best Guided Trips for Leaf Peepers

Ron and Patty Thomas / Photographer's Choice / Getty Images

With leaf peepers descending on New England each autumn from all parts of the globe, it might be easier to leave the planning to someone else and enjoy a guided biking, hiking, walking, bus, train, cruise, or even an aerial tour of New England this fall. Even if you don't consider yourself the organized tour type, a group excursion might be your best bet for maximizing your time during New England's peak tourism season.

Tours range from day trips to full-week excursions where travelers are shuttled around across New England. Regardless of the tour duration, you'll be traveling with locals and fall foliage experts who can guarantee that you see some of the most scenic spots in the Northeast. Plus, once peak foliage arrives , New England fills with visitors and joining a tour keeps the stress level low.

Many organized tours have been cut back or canceled in 2020, so be sure to confirm with individual businesses that they are open this season. If you are unable to join a tour, you can always visit the best places in New England for fall foliage on your own.

Bus tours are one of the most popular ways to explore New England fall foliage. Leave the driving to an operator such as Caravan Tours , which offers an eight-day New England Fall Foliage guided motorcoach trip leaving from Boston on a variety of September and October departure dates. Sit back and enjoy vivid views of changing leaves in all six New England states as you visit the region's most iconic attraction.

Biking Tours

If you're passionate about biking and looking to head out on a "last hurrah" trek before autumn yields to blustery winter, a number of New England fall foliage biking tour providers will lead you on a self-powered journey to remember. Book yourself, for example, on one of VBT Bicycling Vacations ' scheduled outings this fall. This tour company offers a number of autumn trips in Vermont, Cape Cod, and Maine's Acadia National Park . Trip leaders provide support and encouragement all along the way, and your tour includes specially selected accommodations and great regional dining throughout your journey.

Train Tours

If chugging along the tree-lined tracks aboard a historic locomotive sounds appealing, then there are plenty of scenic options to choose from. Among the fall's best railroading adventures is the  Essex Steam Train & Riverboat excursion, which is like taking two trips in one. Board a historic steam train and travel through the rural Connecticut River Valley, followed by a journey through the local wetlands on a steamboat. The entire trip takes about two and a half hours and is available on weekends from September 26 until October 25, 2020.

In neighboring New Hampshire, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of the most romantic trips in the entire Northeast. Different rides vary in time from 55 minutes to over six hours, depending on how long you want your journey to be. Most train rides also include live commentary about New Hampshire's history and local folklore to complement the autumn views outside the window.

Hiking and Walking Tours

Carl D. Walsh / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

The crunch of leaves beneath your feet adds to the charm of fall days in New England, so consider claiming a spot on one of the region's best guided hiking or walking tours. You can even get a head start on the new year by making a resolution to get fit this fall, starting with an inspiring stay at Jimmy LeSage's New Life Hiking Spa in Vermont's lush mountains near Killington. With walks and activities for all levels, from beginners to walkers seeking a challenge, LeSage's programs are designed for more than just weight loss. You'll retrain your mind in healthy ways, too.

The travel company Backroads leads hiking groups around the world, including one through the forests of Vermont and another within Acadia National Park in Maine. Group trips in 2020 have been reformatted and now include fewer people, so you can have a more intimate experience with nature while also staying safe.

Cruise New England's Waters in the Fall

A guided tour of New England's colorful coastline aboard a seaworthy vessel is sure to be a memorable outing, as is a riverboat trip as the leaves put on their annual show. Scenic tours from M/S Mount Washington are geared toward the best leaf-peeping opportunities, sailing around Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Boat trips are scheduled daily from mid-September until mid-October in 2020, and possibly longer depending on the duration of the foliage.

For a more immersive trip, the Maine Windjammer Association sails out on the Atlantic Coast for multi-day trips. You'll be able to travel along the scenic Maine coast and even further up into Canada, depending on which tour you choose and the number of days. Each day includes about six hours of sailing time, after which you'll drop anchor and be able to explore a local fishing village or uninhabited island in order to fully take in the scenery.

Best Aerial Tours for Adventurous Leaf Peepers

Alan Majchrowicz / Getty Images

It's one thing to pick up the prettiest fallen leaves that catch your eye, but you could also soar above the foliage, tickling the treetops. Several aerial adventures offer the chance to do exactly that. When you set sail on a fall hot air balloon flight with Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides , for example, you'll enjoy views few other leaf peepers will never experience. This tour company flies regularly from its home base in Essex Junction (near Burlington ), Vermont. All balloon cabins are reserved for private groups in 2020, making this one of the most thrilling ways to maintain social distance this fall.

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10 Things To Know About New England's Scenic Train, The Amtrak Downeaster

• Amtrak Downeaster is a modern, efficient, and safe mode of transportation that allows travelers to experience the beauty of New England from the comfort of a luxurious train.
• The train operates daily, is cheaper than flying, and is faster than car and bus travel due to no traffic.
• The train travels between several U.S. cities in the northeast, with Brunswick, Maine being the most well-known station. It also stops at other cities in Maine and other New England states, providing opportunities for exploration.

New travelers have many questions about using Amtrak Downeaster for trips through New England. Most adventurers hear about travel using airplanes and buses, but most people think trains are a thing of the past. However, Amtrak is a fully modern, highly efficient, and safe mode of transportation that allows people to experience the beauty of nature from the comfort of a train car.

These trains operate daily, cost much less than a flight, and are quicker than car and bus travel since there's no traffic. These are the most important things to know about Amtrak Downeaster, New England's most scenic train.

What Is Amtrak Downeaster?

Amtrak, Downeaster, provides daily travel between several U.S. cities of the northeast. There are several stations along its route, but Brunswick, Maine, is by far the most well-known. The Brunswick station is the furthest north Amtrak hub in Maine, although the train has five other stations in the state. The other stations include Wells, Saco, Portland, Old Orchard Beach, and Freeport.

Amtrak, Downeaster, did not always own and operate the route these trains travel today. Prior to Amtrak's presence in the northeast, passengers would ride the Pine Tree and Flying Yankee between Bangor and Boston.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Arrive thirty to forty minutes before travel, not hours before, as with air travel.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Check out Fenway Park in Boston to see the local's famous sports team.

Related: 10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Maine

Where Does Amtrak Downeaster Travel?

Amtrak, Downeaster, is one of the primary connections between Brunswick and Boston. For most travelers, this approximately three-hour ride is a great way to reach Boston, a city with some of the most beautiful streets and local scenery. However, Amtrak, Downeaster, is also a great way to travel throughout Maine and several other New England states.

The Downeaster also travels to Dover, Durham, and Exeter, New Hampshire. It also takes guests to several other cities in Massachusetts outside of Boston, including Haverhill and Woburn.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Tourists should keep valuables with them.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: The Children's Museum is within walking distance of Dover's station.

What Is It Like To Travel On The Amtrak Downeaster?

Amtrak's trains are more luxurious and comfortable than other travel methods, like airplanes and buses. These trains are fairly uniform, meaning tourists can expect similar set-ups and available amenities no matter which train station it departs.

The seats are spacious and offer good views of the surrounding landscape. Travelers on the Downeaster can expect to see vibrant views of New England's landscape, including excellent glimpses of the fall foliage in New England's mountains .

Amtrak trains come with WiFi and leg rests for long trips. Although travel between Brunswick and Boston is not long for travelers wishing for some sleep, Amtrak offers roomettes for those wanting to kick back and rest .

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Wear comfortable clothing to add to the overall enjoyment of the trip.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Thompson's Point is within walking distance of the Portland station, which is a hot spot for special events.

How Long Are Most Amtrak Downeaster Rides?

While travel times vary, most trips between Brunswick and Boston take three hours and twenty minutes. However, the trip is much shorter for travelers hoping to disembark before Boston.

Travel from Brunswick to Freeport takes around fifteen minutes. However, some travelers choose to use Amtrak Downeaster to explore New England, so many are not in a rush.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Bring snacks and beverages to save money.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Local restaurants close to Exeter's station and small museums.

Related: 10 Amazing Trips To Take In The Fall In Maine

What Cities Are Most Popular To Visit Via Amtrak Downeaster?

Most travelers use the Downeaster train to travel between Brunswick and Boston. This gives passengers a wonderful glimpse at the 12 unique stations and cities along its path.

Each city on its route is worth visiting for different reasons. Travelers appreciate the trip to Boston because of the views of New England along the way and the excitement promised in the big city.

However, tourists should also check cities like Freeport, Saco, and Dover when possible. Saco and Freeport have excellent shopping experiences, including the famous clothes outlet LL. Bean in Freeport. Dover is ideal for nature lovers, with the nature trail near the train station.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Always be friendly to the staff, and never insult or harass them.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Explore the local Maine shoreline and beaches near Old Orchard Beach station.

Is Amtrak Downeaster Safe?

All of Amtrak's trains have an excellent safety rating, beating out most other popular methods of ground travel. These trains also have their own police force, known as the Amtrak Police. Many of these police patrol the tracks where Amtrak trains travel and safeguard the stations. Several officers also ride the trains undercover in case any issues arise.

Tourists should keep their valuables close to them rather than placing them in storage compartments. This is one of the best ways to prevent theft of valuable items.

Women traveling alone should also take precautions, especially after leaving the stations at night.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Solo women travelers should avoid traveling at night in large cities like Boston.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Drop by Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area near Dover, New Hampshire, for stunning nature views.

Is Amtrak Downeaster Environmentally Friendly?

Amtrak is one of the most environmentally friendly systems of travel in the U.S. While many Amtrak trains still use diesel fuel, this mode of transportation beats cars, airplanes, trucks, and buses for its sustainability rating.

Amtrak is also actively investing in research and development to continue improving Amtrak's overall environmental rating, including looking for ways to add more biofuels to their fleet engines .

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Enjoy the train's quiet and bring a favorite novel.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Stop by the Public Garden of Boston for free.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Eco-Friendly Places You Can Visit In The U.S. In October

Are Any Amtrak Downeaster Rides Overnight?

The longest train ride with Amtrak Downeaster is approximately three and a half hours long between Brunswick and Boston. This means there's really no room for an overnight ride, although some trains depart Brunswick in the evening. Amtrak Downeaster does offer a special Event Nite Train .

This train schedules departures in Boston during special local events, like big concerts and home games for the local baseball team, the Boston Red Sox.

This special event train is not an overnight ride but travels mostly at night. Most train rides with Amtrak Downeaster last less than an hour, but it offers incredible views of New England in a luxurious environment.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Bring cameras to photograph the beautiful New England landscape.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston while journeying through the region.

How Much Do Tickets Cost For Amtrak Downeaster?

Traveling with Amtrak Downeaster is remarkably affordable, especially compared to air travel. While prices vary, according to the website's Fare Finder tool, a round trip between Brunswick and Boston costs around $60.00. One-way trips between Brunswick and Boston cost around $30.00.

Round trips between Brunswick and Saco only cost around $12.00, and one-way trips cost around $6.00. Tourists hoping to estimate the cost of their trip should use the Fare Finder tool on Amtrak's website .

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Use a checklist to avoid forgetting important items, like a photo ID.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Visit Bowdoin College near Brunswick's station.

How Do You Buy Tickets For Amtrak Downeaster?

Buying tickets directly from Downeaster's website is the easiest way to buy tickets for Amtrak. The website also lists their trains, train departure times, and estimated arrival times. They also have online specials and discounts, which travelers can apply at checkout. This includes a 50% discount for senior tourists, BOGO discounts for multiple travelers, and 50% off for children.

• Tips for Riding Amtrak: Limit carry-on bags to avoid making leg space cramped and uncomfortable.
• Places to See When Riding Amtrak, Downeaster: Merrimack River sits close to Haverhill's station and is a great location to see wildlife.

Amtrak offers some fantastic routes and can take adventurers to dozens of locations . The Downeaster routes cut through New England's gorgeous mountains and woodlands, making it one of the best trips for sightseers. This is especially true for autumn when the fall foliage paints the landscape orange, yellow, and red.

Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A $12 billion passenger bullet train linking Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area was dubbed the first true high-speed rail line in the nation on Monday, with the private company building it predicting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg before taking a stage with union representatives and company officials at the future site of a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s really happening this time.”

Buttigieg cited Biden administration support for the project that he said will bring thousands of union jobs, boost local economies and cut traffic and air pollution.

Brightline West, whose sister company  already operates a fast train  between Miami and Orlando in Florida, aims to lay 218 miles (351 kilometers) of new track almost all in the median of Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. It would link there with a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. A station also is planned in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

Company officials say the goal is to have trains exceeding speeds of 186 mph (300 kph) — comparable to  Japan’s Shinkansen  bullet trains — operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

“I believe we’ll look back at today and say, ‘This was the birth of an industry of high-speed rail,’” Brightline Holdings founder Wes Edens said Monday.

The company aims to link U.S. cities that are too near each other for air travel to make sense and too far for people to drive.

Las Vegas has no Amtrak service. The idea of a bullet train to Los Angeles dates back decades under various names including DesertXpress. Brightline West acquired the project in 2019, and company and public officials say it has all required right-of-way and environmental approvals, along with labor agreements.

Brightline received Biden administration backing including a  $3 billion grant  from federal infrastructure funds and recent  approval to sell  another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

Brightline West says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. It projects 11 million one-way passengers per year, with fares that Edens said will be comparable to airline ticket costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where drivers often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home to Southern California from a Las Vegas weekend. An average of more than  44,000 automobiles per day  crossed the California-Nevada state line on I-15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings’  Miami-line debuted  in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It offers 16 round-trips per day with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak’s Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) between Boston and Washington, D.C. But fast train connections for other U.S. cities have been floated, including  Dallas to Houston ;  Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ;  Chicago to St. Louis ; and  Seattle to Portland, Oregon.  Most have faced delays.

In California, a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco was approved by voters in 2008, but has been beset by  rising costs and routing disputes . A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the  cost had more than tripled  to $105 billion.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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A ride across passages of history - Moscow Metro rolls on

Click on the map to enlarge it

Lying at a depth of 5 (Pechatniki station) to 80 metres (Park Pobedy station), the history of the last eight decades unfold before your eyes, carved out of marble and granite and built in iron and glass – revealing the tastes, ideas, dreams, hopes and disappointments of the previous generations and contemporaries. The Moscow Metro dates back to 1931, when its construction first began, although engineers Pyotr Balinsky and Evgeny Knorre submitted their first designs to the Moscow City Duma as far back as 1902. “His speeches carried a strong temptation: like a true demon, he would promise to cast Moscow down to the bottom of the sea and raise it above the clouds”, a journalist for the Russkoye Slovo newspaper commented on Balinsky’s idea. Yet the Duma, made up of rich people, did not bite the bait: after all, they all lived in the centre of the city and never rode overcrowded trams.

After five failed proposals before the Duma, the Moscow Metro finally threw open its doors on May 15, 1935, 18 years after the revolution, and carried the first passengers on its moving staircases, escalators, and the padded seats of its new wagons (unlike the wooden seats in trams). The first metro line – from Sokolniki to Dvorets Sovetov (now known as Kropotkinskaya) -- was 11 km long and had 13 stations. Now, the Moscow Metro has a track of over 300 km with 12 lines and 182 stations. The city’s development outline for 2020 envisages that, by then, another 120 km will have been added to the existing routes.

For the first 20 years of its history, the Moscow Metro was named after Lazar Kaganovich, the “iron commissar” and Stalin’s right hand man, who was in-charge of construction of the first stage of the metro (incidentally, he personally blew up the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in December 1931 as a part of the Proletarian Capital project). In 1955, however, the Metro was renamed after Vladimir Lenin. Although Russia has long since changed its political track, you can still find the images of the former leader at over 10 stations, including, for instance, busts of Lenin at Belorusskaya and Komsomolskaya stations, impressive mosaics at Baumanskaya and Kievskaya stations, a tile panel in the passage between the Borovitskaya and Biblioteka Imeni Lenina stations. By a bitter irony of fate, Lenin’s full-face and side-face images decorate the Tsaritsyno (translated as the Tsarina’s Estate) station (dubbed Lenino up until 1990) – images of the very person who ordered the shooting of the royal family. You will not, however, find any images of Stalin in Moscow’s underground. A symbol of Russia's victory, he was omnipresent in the late 1940s. After his death in 1953 and the denunciation of Stalin’s personality cult, his images were gradually withdrawn from the Moscow Metro.

“Architecture developed along the same lines, both above and below the surface. Anything that emerged above ground had a reflection underground. It is equally true that vice versa never occurred: good architecture underground but bad architecture above the ground,” says Nikolay Shumakov, chief architect of the Moscow Metro. The first metro stations, up until the mid-1950s, were conceived and built as luxurious “palaces for the people”, great architecture for a great state. Art historians insist that the richly-decorated underground was a deliberate ideological move to eulogise the young Soviet country. Stations built between 1937 and 1955 are characteristic of the first architectural period. Everything completed at this time is worthy of special attention. For instance, look at the ceiling at Mayakovskaya and Novokuznetskaya stations to see mosaic panels based on designs by artist Alexander Deineka – 24-Hour Soviet Sky and Heroic Labour of the Soviet People on the Home Front. The mosaics were assembled by famous mosaic artist Vladimir Frolov, author of the mosaic icons in St. Petersburg’s Church of the Saviour on Blood. The Ploshchad Revolutsii station was decorated with 76 bronze sculptures of workers, soldiers, farmers, students and other Soviet people. You can even find a frontier guard with a dog and rub its nose for good luck. You may also note that all the figures (except pioneers) are either sitting or bent, which engendered the sad joke – “Any Soviet man is either in jail or on his knees.”

 Elements of decoration in Moscow's metro.   Photos by Alexandr Ganyushin

1955 heralded the end of the good times for Russian architecture – both underground and above ground – after the Communist Party issued a decree "On elimination of extravagance in design and construction.” Dull stations, without any stucco work, mosaics, original columns or other “unjustified” elements, were built under the slogan “Kilometres at the expense of architecture”. Things were the same above the ground, where entire cities were built of commonplace five-storey apartment blocks, all looking the same, nicknamed ‘Khrushchevkas’ after the then leader, Nikita Khrushchev. To get a sense of this period’s architecture, see the few stations built in the 1960s-1980s like Tverskaya, Kitay-Gorod and Kolomenskaya. In 2002, with the reconstruction of the Vorobyovy Gory station, the development of the Moscow Metro entered a third stage, which could be defined as ‘renaissance’. The platform of the station offers a splendid view of the Moskva River, the Luzhniki Olympic Complex and the Academy of Sciences building. Architectural canons of the 1930s-1940s were once again in use in the design of underground stations. By the same token, artists once again become involved in decorating the stations. As such, the Sretensky Bulvar station boasts silhouettes of Pushkin, Gogol, and Timiryazev and Moscow sights; the Dostoevskaya station is decorated with black-and-white panels featuring the main characters from Dostoyevsky’s novels The Idiot, Demons, Crime and Punishment, The Brothers Karamazov, and the Maryina Roshcha station flaunts its pastoral mosaic landscapes. In 2004, Russia's first monorail transport system was launched into service – an elevated track (running 6 to 12 metres above the ground) in the northern part of Moscow, linking the All-Russian Exhibition Centre and the Timiryazevskaya metro station. The evolution of the Moscow Metro goes on. It’s still a work in progress, with ambitious plans to move the Moscow Metro even closer to passengers over the next ten years, not just by adding an extra 120 km to its total track. “We want to strip the stations of everything we can,” says Nikolai Shumakov. “We are trying to show the passengers their very framework, what the metro is made of. Cast iron and concrete are beautiful.”

Joy ride: Read Gogol, Dante or savour art

The Aquarelle Train.   Source: Reuters/Vostock-Photo

With any luck, you can ride in a retro train, a moving art gallery or a library. The trains are actually a part of the general traffic (i.e., they do not run to any special schedule) and are used on certain lines. The Reading Moscow Train , an ordinary train on the face of it, features extracts from literary works for adults and children. Each wagon has its own selection, from children’s fairy tales to Gogol. Circle Line. The Poetry in Metro Train carries an exposition, updated this year, dedicated to Italian poets Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarch, Giacomo Leopardi, etc. All the poems are featured in two languages, Russian and Italian. Filevskaya Line. The Sokolniki Retro Train looks exactly like the first Moscow Metro train, both inside and out. Painted brown, it has padded seats, typical wall decorations and retro lamps. Sokolnicheskaya Line. The Aquarelle Train looks like a cabinet painted with flowers and fruit on the outside. Inside, it is an art gallery featuring art reproductions from the Vyatka Apollinary and Viktor Vasnetsov Art Museum. Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line.

Revolution Square station (built in 1938) is close to the Red Square area. There are 72 sculptures in the station, depicting the people of the Soviet Union, including soldiers, farmers, athletes, writers, industrial workers and school children.

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Moscow Metro 2019

Will it be easy to find my way in the Moscow Metro? It is a question many visitors ask themselves before hitting the streets of the Russian capital. As metro is the main means of transport in Moscow – fast, reliable and safe – having some skills in using it will help make your visit more successful and smooth. On top of this, it is the most beautiful metro in the world !

. There are over 220 stations and 15 lines in the Moscow Metro. It is open from 6 am to 1 am. Trains come very frequently: during the rush hour you won't wait for more than 90 seconds! Distances between stations are quite long – 1,5 to 2 or even 3 kilometers. Metro runs inside the city borders only. To get to the airport you will need to take an onground train - Aeroexpress.

RATES AND TICKETS

Paper ticket A fee is fixed and does not depend on how far you go. There are tickets for a number of trips: 1, 2 or 60 trips; or for a number of days: 1, 3 days or a month. Your trips are recorded on a paper ticket. Ifyou buy a ticket for several trips you can share it with your traveling partner passing it from one to the other at the turnstile.

On every station there is cashier and machines (you can switch it to English). Cards and cash are accepted. 1 trip - 55 RUB 2 trips - 110 RUB

Tickets for 60 trips and day passes are available only at the cashier's.

60 rides - 1900 RUB

1 day - 230 RUB 3 days - 438 RUB 30 days - 2170 RUB.

The cheapest way to travel is buying Troyka card . It is a plastic card you can top up for any amount at the machine or at the ticket office. With it every trip costs 38 RUB in the metro and 21 RUB in a bus. You can get the card in any ticket office. Be prepared to leave a deposit of 50 RUB. You can get it back returning the card to the cashier.

SamsungPay, ApplePay and PayPass cards.

One turnstile at every station accept PayPass and payments with phones. It has a sticker with the logos and located next to the security's cabin.

GETTING ORIENTED

At the platfrom you will see one of these signs.

It indicates the line you are at now (line 6), shows the direction train run and the final stations. Numbers below there are of those lines you can change from this line.

In trains, stations are announced in Russian and English. In newer trains there are also visual indication of there you are on the line.

To change lines look for these signs. This one shows the way to line 2.

There are also signs on the platfrom. They will help you to havigate yourself. (To the lines 3 and 5 in this case). 

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New-Home Sales Surge as Buyers Seek Options in Tight Housing Market

New-home sales surged last month, as buyers increasingly turned to fresh construction in a housing market plagued by few homes for sale.

Sales of new single-family houses jumped 8.8% in March from the prior month, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 693,000, the U.S. Census Bureau and Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly reported on Tuesday. March sales were up 8.3% from one year ago and were at their highest levels since last September.

The median sales price of new homes was $430,700 in March. That was good news for buyers as the price was down 1.8% from one year ago. This is a result of homebuilders increasingly pivoting to smaller and more affordable homes to appeal to buyers pinched by high mortgage rates.

“The willingness of the major homebuilders to utilize incentives such as price reductions, mortgage rate buy-downs, and paying buyers’ closings costs continues to support a healthy pace of new-home sales,” said Gregg Logan , managing director of RCLCO Real Estate Consulting, in a note on the new report.

The surge in new-home sales comes after the National Association of Realtors® last week reported that sales of previously owned homes slumped in March. Total existing-home sales dropped 4.3% from February, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.19 million in March.

Northeast leads monthly surge in new-home sales

The number of new homes sold in the Northeast jumped 27.8% from February to March on a seasonally adjusted basis. That was the largest increase in the nation. However, sales dropped 13.2% compared with March of the previous year.

Monthly new-homes sales rose 8.6% in the West, 7.7% in the South, and 5.3% in the Midwest.

Rising mortgage rates didn't appear to slow down new-home sales like they did for sales in the existing-home market. The number of sales in the resale market dropped 3.7% year over year in March, according to NAR.

Mortgage rates averaged 6.82% in March, according to Freddie Mac . But they rose to 7.1% for 30-year fixed loans in the week ending April 18. This was the first time they topped 7%, an increase that is expected to squeeze the budgets of prospective homebuyers.

"Although consumer demand has been somewhat dampened due to higher interest rates, builders continue to supply new homes to the market to lift inventory to make up for the low resale supply," Carl Harris , chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, said in a statement. "Rates moving above 7% however, will move some home buyers to the sidelines as the spring progresses ."

New-home prices remain robust despite affordability push

To lure homebuyers discouraged by high mortgage rates, homebuilders have pivoted to more affordable floor plans and offered a range of incentives, including mortgage rate subsidies.

"Although home prices and mortgage rates remain high, prices have been rising more slowly, and homebuilders have been introducing a broader mix of smaller homes in order to bring prices in reach of more home buyers," said Logan.

Still, new-home prices remain well above those seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, with March's median sales price up 31% from four years ago. The March price was also a 6% gain from the three-year low reached in February .

March's new-home median sales price of $430,700 is also nearly 10% higher than the existing-home price of $393,500 that NAR reported for March, noted Bright MLS Chief Economist Lisa Sturtevant .

"Homebuilder confidence continues to be high despite elevated mortgage rates," she said in a statement. "The new home market has been an outsized share of the housing inventory, so homebuilders have been able to attract prospective homebuyers who are seeing very limited supply in the existing home market."

Keith Griffith is a journalist at Realtor.com. He covers the housing market and real estate trends.

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