vermont day trips from albany ny

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15 Best Day Trips from Albany, New York

The state capital is a thriving example of New York’s wealthy history and an absolute pleasure to explore.

Albany is home to various architectural wonders, most prominently the Empire State Plaza, but you’ll also find various fine collections of public art dotted around the city.

However, the capital is also famous for being the gateway to The Hudson Valley and The Adirondacks, two of the most popular regions in Upstate New York on account of their beauty and the diversity of activities that take place there.

From whitewater rafting in the Hudson River, to climbing mountain peaks, to immersing yourself in the colonial history of former fur trade towns, Albany is an ideal location from which to take some truly spectacular day trips.

1. Lake Placid

Just over two hours away from the city streets of Albany is one of the United State’s long-time favourite vacation spots, the irresistibly beautiful Lake Placid.

The enormous lake is surrounded by long swathes of wildflower fields that shift from purple to orange throughout the year and are simply stunning to observe from the various viewpoints on Whiteface Mountain.

The village here has kept a lot of its 19th Century small-town charm and is a wonderful base from which to plan kayaking outings, hiking routes and even skiing during the winter months.

2. New Paltz

Known as one of the most beautiful towns in Upstate New York and only 70 miles south of Albany, New Paltz is a charming waterside town snugly nestled into a forested area of Ulster County and is home to many boutique shops and restaurants.

The atmosphere here is constantly pleasant and jovial thanks to the buzzing student population, though it’s far from rowdy.

The town’s location in the countryside also means there are countless outdoor activities to partake in including everything from sailing to taking a walk in the woods.

3. Howe Caverns

This natural attraction is second in popularity only to Niagara Falls, which gives you an idea of the amount of people who flock to come and see the underground marvel.

It also happens to be the largest underground cave in the whole of the Northeast of the country, making it a worthwhile visit.

You’ll have the chance to ogle at the various geological formations both by foot and by boat as you embark on tours that take you more than 150 feet below the ground.

The highlight is undoubtedly the vast subterranean lake that was formed over the course of millions of years.

4. Lake George

In the southeast of the huge Adirondacks mountain range, you’ll find one of the most popular lakes in the country, the beautiful Lake George.

Visited frequently by locals and travelers alike, there are countless ways to spend the days here, from ferry cruises, to water theme parks to every kind of water sport imaginable.

Perfect for people looking for a close-by getaway, it’s only an hour from Albany and if you don’t want to pass up on the home comforts of the city, you’ll also find fine-dining restaurants and shops here.

5. Kaaterskill Falls

Wildly popular amongst artists who come to the falls every year to capture its majesty, the Kaaterskill Falls are a truly spectacle to behold.

Cascading down two terrace-like tiers, the formation is actually taller than Niagra Falls, standing at 200 feet.

You can easily reach them by following a picturesque trail from the main road through the dramatic landscape of the Catskill Escarpment.

If you feel like taking on more of a challenge than a visit to the cascades, then you can embark on one of the many world class hiking routes in the surrounding Catskill Mountains.

6. Manchester, Vermont

Nestled into Bennington County in the beautiful Vermont, Manchester has the sophisticated allure of a cultural hub, with everything from artisanal restaurants, coffee shops and bars to galleries and theatrical performances.

With an electric atmosphere thanks to the combination of New Yorkers and New Englanders who visit here, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the pace of life.

The best part is that on your doorstep you also have all the best natural attractions Vermont has to offer and you can indulge in everything from skiing to hiking to your heart’s content.

7. Shawangunk Mountains

Rising dramatically out of the golden and red forests typical of the Northeast, are the Shawangunk Mountains, or “Gunks” as locals refer to them as.

The sheer 300 feet rock faces form one of the best and most prestigious rock climbing sites in the world and it’s easy to see why.

However it’s not only rock climbers who visit here, as there is an abundance of beautiful hiking trails that you can take through any of the adjoining preserve lands that offer excellent views of the mountain.

If you truly want to unwind, then pay a visit to the enormous and opulent Mohonk Mountain House Spa, complete with its own lake and section of cliff face.

8. Saratoga Springs

This 17th Century colonial town is in fact ranked as one of the top 10 places to live in New York and it only takes a few hours exploring it’s picturesque streets to understand why.

Saratoga Springs is renowned for its public springs and historic spa, attracting people from around the country to come and relax.

Most iconic, however, are the variations in water taste, which you can find to be sweet, or bitter depending on its location in town.

There’s also a buzzing shopping area with a range of spectacular restaurants and all only 40 minutes away from Albany.

The Hudson is one of those rivers that quite literally has something to suit every taste and if you follow its route from Albany all the way to New York City, it’ll be impossible for you not to find something either fascinating, exhilarating or both.

Enjoy breathtaking views from the Walkway Over the Hudson – the world’s longest pedestrian bridge, or visit the river’s namesake, the town of Hudson where you’ll find some excellent foodie destinations.

For those looking for something a little more adventurous, head down to Hudson River Park for some world-class kayaking with gorgeous city views.

10. Columbia County

A mere half hour away from Albany, you’ll find one of the densest concentrations of historical sites in the Northeast, featuring everything from ex-Presidential retirement houses to huge museums and libraries.

Columbia County is a region full of old mansions and stately homes in residential areas that are surrounded by farms and country markets that give the town a feel of being disconnected from the city.

During the summer, there is always music to listen to and art to see with pop-up galleries round every corner and jazz festivals occupying the streets.

A wonderful escape to a quintessentially American settlement, Columbia County is an excellent day trip for those looking for a more relaxed pace of life.

11. Adirondack Park Region

This vast region is home to mountains, parkland, woodland and beautiful wildernesses that can be visited for the day, or if they take your fancy you can stay for longer and camp at countless spots.

A true escape from city life, the Adirondacks contain glacial lakes, waterfalls and more, making them popular amongst adventure lovers.

Get back to nature with some canoeing, hiking or cross-country skiing, all only just over two hours away from the bustling center of Albany.

During the winter, there’s even more on offer, with the chance to partake in once-in-a-lifetime activities like ice-climbing, dog-sledding and ice-fishing.

12. Pottersville Caves and Park

The caves at Pottersville are famous for their size, but none more-so than Stone Bridge, the largest marble cave in the entire country.

You can explore the billion year old formation on a guided tour, or if you’d like to discover the area by yourself, you can venture above ground and take advantage of the enormous park, which features over 14 miles of snowshoe trails during the winter, rock climbing and a museum full of the area’s geological history.

13. Catskills Scenic Trail

Less than two hours away from Albany lies the 100 mile-wide Catskills Mountains region, owned by the state but open to campers and hikers.

Ideal for overnight stays due to the gorgeous camping areas but also pleasant to visit for the day, the area has an astonishing amount of different activities on offer.

The Catskills Scenic Trail is a perfect example of this, as it comprises of a 26-mile route that you can hike, ski, cycle or even horseback ride through.

14. Boston Massachusetts

Though it’s one of the oldest cities in the nation, Boston does not have a pompous or stuffy air about it.

In fact, it’s got one of the most diverse and prospering communities in New England and between clam chowder festivals, movie tours and bustling marketplaces, there’s endless enjoyment to be had in the city.

As one of the brainiest cities in the nation however, there’s also ample opportunity to indulge in Boston’s rich history, whether that means a visit to Harvard or to one of its countless museums.

15. Ausable Chasm

Most famously known as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, Ausable Chasm is an astonishingly majestic sandstone gorge that is fed by waterfalls and runs into Lake Champlain.

Here you’ll find endless ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the site, from adventure hikes to rappelling and white water rafting.

One of the highlights is the night tours option where you’ll get the chance to marvel at the natural formations by moonlight.

15 Best Day Trips from Albany, New York:

• Lake Placid
• Howe Caverns
• Lake George
• Kaaterskill Falls
• Manchester, Vermont
• Shawangunk Mountains
• Saratoga Springs
• Columbia County
• Adirondack Park Region
• Pottersville Caves and Park
• Catskills Scenic Trail
• Boston Massachusetts
• Ausable Chasm

• Last Updated On
• October 3, 2023

25 Best Day Trips From Albany — Places Nearby!

Albany is a 400-year-old city in New York with plenty of fun things to do and year-round events.

But some days, it’s nice to branch out and see what wonders its surrounding places hold.

Most places are close enough to each other that you can visit two or more in one day.

Some places have so many cool things to see and do that you need most of the day to do them all.

No matter where you go first, you’ll be having some of the best day trips from Albany, thanks to this list.

Hudson is a city and county seat of Columbia county, known for its scenic and historic treasures.

This city is only a 42-minute drive from Albany, so it’s great for a quick weekend getaway.

Step into a masterpiece at the OlanaState Historic Site, home to the famous landscape artist Frederic Church.

Then wander through Warren Street to admire the colorful and historic buildings there.

You’ll see many mom-and-pop storefronts, dozens of art galleries, antique stores, and charming restaurants.

Finish it by catching a show at the Hudson Hall, where you’ll be transported to musical heavens.

2. Lenox, MA

Lenox, MA 01240 (413) 637-5500

Lenox is a town in Berkshire County known as the home of Shakespeare & Company and Tanglewood.

It should take you about 46 minutes to get to Lenox from Albany.

Have a tour of the Ventfort Hall Mansion for a step back in time to a Victorian-era home.

Then head to a Gilded Age Museum to see fascinating artifacts from the past.

The Lenox Library is a great spot to stop if you’re trying to kill time between tours.

Or visit the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health for a relaxing yoga session.

Then go ahead and be entertained by a Shakespeare & Company Show of classic plays.

Kennedy Park is a fantastic spot for a relaxing stroll, with 15 miles of trails for hiking and biking.

If you’re looking for places to visit near Albany, Boston has plenty of activities and museums.

3. Rochester’s National Museum of Play

1 Manhattan Square Dr Rochester, NY 14607 (585) 263-2700

The National Museum of Play is a museum in Rochester established in 1969 and is based on the personal collection of Margaret Woodbury.

This trip will take 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete from Albany, so we suggest getting started early in the morning.

This is one of the best day trips from Albany for families, especially for kids.

With over 100,000 square feet of interactive fun, this museum is perfect for kids of all ages.

Stroll down Sesame Street to meet your favorite characters or fight crimes with a superhero.

Explore the vibrant indoor garden filled with butterflies.

Then head to the Halls of Fame to see a rich collection of outstanding contributions over the years.

Learn about the history of America’s comics, games, infrastructure, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Rochester University, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Best Day Trips From NYC Day Trips From Rochester

4. Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a city in New York founded in 1776 and is known for its thoroughbred horse racing.

This quirky town is a mere 38-minute drive from Albany, so it’s great for a quick weekend getaway.

Visit Congress Park for a beautiful green space for a quaint picnic.

You can visit a 120-year-old carved carousel that you can ride for just a dollar.

Or you can opt to have breakfast at the Saratoga Race Course, where you’ll see magnificent horses whiz down the race track.

Be rejuvenated at the Spa State Park, where you’ll find mineral springs that date back to the 1600s.

Or take a walk downtown to browse shops and restaurants selling excellent homestyle food, clothes, toys, jewelry, and more.

Finally, see a show at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, where you’ll be entertained by the most amusing musicals and plays.

This is one of the many day trips from Albany for couples with plenty to do.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Saratoga Casino Hotel

5. Adirondack Park Region

Adirondack, NY 12808 (518) 897-1200

Adirondack Park Region is a protected park in New York established in 1892, known for its fall foliage.

The drive will take 3 hours and 45 minutes, so you should get started early in the morning.

Head to the Wild Center to take in the vast beauty of Adirondack Park.

You can stroll down the WIld Walk treetop trail, where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the park.

Have fun at the Extreme Adventure Course, where you can zipline and play with rope swings and slides.

There’s even a tree-top obstacle course the whole family can enjoy.

Walk around the park and see natural beauties like waterfalls and gorges.

It makes this one of the most amazing scenic places near Albany and is perfect for a quick daycation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Blue Ridge Motel

Related: Activities in Albany

6. Catskills Scenic Trail

Arkville, NY 12406 (845) 586-2929

The Catskill Scenic Trail is a multi-use rail trail in rural Delaware County, New York. It runs along the old Ulster and Delaware Railroad right-of-way.

It will take about an hour and 16 minutes to drive there from Albany, with beautiful scenery.

This trail is perfect for when you need to let off some steam with nature.

There are over 24 miles to explore that are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

The green, lush forest offers solitude during the quieter times of the day.

During the winter, it’s an excellent place for a skiing adventure down the hill.

So if you’re looking for Albany trips that will bring you closer to nature, this is one trip you’ll want to take.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Roxbury

7. Columbia County Tourism

401 State St Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-3375

Columbia County Tourism is a municipal department of tourism in Hudson offering tours and recreational activities.

This tourism company can be found if you drive 42 minutes from Albany.

Columbia County is a beautiful destination of unsurpassed rural beauty and fun recreational activities.

This tour will guide you through several historic sites that tell stories of how this town came to be.

If you head downtown, there are plenty of art galleries and breweries you could explore, each an art in itself.

Have a scenic hike through Lake Taghkanic State Park, or visit one of Columbia’s five-star restaurants.

Explore vineyards and taste different wines, or go shopping.

Whatever you feel like doing, this tour will most likely cover it all.

This is one of those Albany day trips you don’t want to miss.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Nest Hudson

Also See: Best Day Trips From Buffalo

8. Cooperstown

Cooperstown, NY 13326

Cooperstown is a village in central New York that’s known for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

The drive to Cooperstown from Albany is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, which gives you plenty of time to explore.

Head to the National Baseball Hall of Fame to learn about the great names that contributed to this sport.

Then, see masterpieces from all over the world at the Fenimore Art Museum.

Cooperstown Distillery offers an unparalleled experience of all things wine and whiskey.

And Cooperstown Farmers’ Market has everything you need and more, whether it comes to cuisine or crafts.

Whether you’re here for a stroll through LakeFront Park or a game at the Leatherstocking Golf Course, there’s something for everybody.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Railroad Inn

9. Corning Museum of Glass

1 Museum Way Corning, NY 14830 (607) 937-5371

Corning Museum of Glass is a non-profit museum established in 1951 dedicated to educating about the art of glasswork.

This trip will take 3 hours and 11 minutes from Albany, so prepare your road tunes.

Watch in awe as artists transform ordinary glass into pieces of vibrant art in one of their Hot Glass Demos.

Then head to the Flameworking Demo to see how fire and glass work together to make art.

Finally, head to the Studio to see professional artists at work and watch as glass is manipulated with fire to form sculptures.

And before you leave, try your hand at making your glass art to take home.

If you’re looking for fun things to do outside Albany that would entertain everyone, we recommend this center.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Corning, an IHG Hotel

10. Fort Ticonderoga

102 Fort Ti Rd Ticonderoga, NY 12883 (518) 585-2821

Fort Ticonderoga is a large 18-century fort built by the French in 1757 during the French and Indian War.

It’s a drive of 1 hour and 54 minutes from Albany, but it’s worth every second.

Dive into the series of Star Trek by taking a tour of the original series set.

Then head to King’s Garden to capture stunning and vibrant flowers and landscapes before your eyes.

Visit Mount Defiance for stellar views of gorges and plains, and even learn a thing or two about history from there.

For the old soul, visit Lonergan’s Antiques for a fun souvenir.

This historical fort is certainly worth a one day trip from Albany.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Ticonderoga

11. Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks

2144 US-9 Ausable Chasm, NY 12911 (518) 834-7454

The Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks is also known as the Ausable Chasm and is a scenic canyon established in 1870.

It’s a drive of 2 hours and 12 minutes from Albany, so you might want to bring some snacks with you.

Ausable Chasm isn’t just a one-trick pony, and you’ll find there’s more to do here than simply admiring the views.

Head to the Visitor’s Center first to pick up your passes and maps of the place and learn more about this gorge.

Take an easy walk to the Ausable Chasm bridge to peer down Rainbow Falls and the gorge beyond.

Then continue on the easy trail to see a gentle forest roll along the gorge rim and craggy rocks.

The Inner Sanctum Trail is an easy trail anyone can do, even toddlers.

There’s a narrow bridge that goes over the gorge there, and it’s a thrill to cross.

For a bit more fun, go River Tubing or Chasm Rafting to experience the waters firsthand.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Plattsburgh, an IHG Hotel

12. Herkimer Diamond Mines

4601 NY-28 Herkimer, NY 13350 (315) 891-3099

The Herkimer Diamond Mines was purchased by the Scialdo family in 1979 and has been mining the quartz crystals to this day.

The drive here will take about 1 hour and 21 minutes from Albany, so it’s perfect for a fun family getaway trip.

You’ll have a blast here touring an ancient mine underground and the tools used for mining gems.

If you stumble across a diamond, you’re free to keep it.

Once you’ve got your gemstone, head to the Artisan Center to create a lasting piece of jewelry out of that gem you found.

It’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family and is one of the most intriguing places to see near Albany.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Utica, an IHG Hotel

13. Howe Caverns

255 Discovery Dr Howes Cave, NY 12092 (518) 296-8900

Howe Caverns is the largest cavern in northeast New York and is the second-most visited natural attraction.

This family-friendly fun is just 45 minutes from Albany, so it’s a relatively quick trip.

Take a tour of the Secret Caverns and see the marvelous underground waterfalls.

Then visit the Cave House Museum of Mining to see what mining was like hundreds of years ago.

The Old Stone Fort Museum is fun to visit for old artifacts and knowledge about Howes Caverns’ rich history.

Take a hike through Vroman’s Nose Hiking Trail, or go birdwatching at the Schoharie County Eagle Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Cobleskill NY

14. Johnstown

Johnstown is a city in Fulton County named after its founder, Sir William Johnson.

You can reach this charming town in just under an hour from Albany.

Visit the Johnson Hall State Historic Site to learn more about this town’s history through fascinating exhibits.

You can also tour the gorgeous landscapes and grounds of this estate.

And try to see what speed is like at the Checkers Out Speedway, which is an off-road race track.

Watch an entertaining musical or show at the Colonial Little Theater Inc.

Or pet a few animals at the Adirondack Animal Land.

You can watch a movie at the Johnstown Movieplex or visit the J&G Arcade for a blast with arcade games.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Johnstown

15. Kaaterskill Falls

Kaaterskill Falls Hunter, NY 12436 (518) 943-3223

Kaaterskill Falls is a two-stage waterfall rising to 70 meters high in Spruce Creek.

It will take you 54 minutes to drive here from Albany, and it is worth the views.

Indulge in relaxation and meditation at the Hunter Mountain Resort.

Then go for a thrilling hike through the Kaaterskill Falls Trail Head to see stunning waterfalls in motion.

For more thrill, try the New York Zipline Adventures, where you’ll see mountains and beautiful forests.

Finally, take in the magnificent views from the MountainTop Arboretum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Saugerties – Hudson Valley, an IHG Hotel

16. Lake Placid

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Lake Placid is a village and lake located in the Adirondack Mountains and is known for hosting Olympic events.

It will take about 2 hours and 19 minutes to get there from Albany.

Check out the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to learn about this great event’s history and see exhibitions.

Then marvel at the heights of the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex.

For a more relaxing tour, try the Lake Placid Marina and Boat Tours to see the calm waves, its marine life, and the beautiful surrounding mountains.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel

17. New Paltz

New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-0604

New Paltz is a village in Ulster County and is best known worldwide for its outdoor attractions.

You can get here from downtown Albany by driving for 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Visit Historic Huguenot Street to see several historic landmarks from hundreds of years ago.

Then admire local and international paintings and sculptures at the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art.

The Mohonk Preserve is an exciting visit to box-like stones, and you’ll have a magnificent view from the top.

Finally, visit the DENIZEN Theatre for a taste of local talents in storytelling.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn by Hilton New Paltz, NY

18. Lake George

Lake George, NY 12845 (518) 668-5722

Lake George is a town and lake that’s located in the Adirondack region and is known as the “Queen of American Lakes.”

This charming town and the stunning lake are located just under an hour’s drive from Albany.

Check out the Fort William Henry Museum to step back in time to the Civil Wars.

Taking a tour of the town and its surrounding beauties is best experienced through the Lake George Steamboat Company.

Have a fantastic parasailing adventure at Lake George, and relax with a glass of wine after at the Adirondack Winery.

Or visit the Magic Forest to see whimsical sculptures and statues throughout a charming forest.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Lake George

Related: Best Restaurants in Lake George

19. Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, VT 05255 (802) 362-1313

Manchester is a charming town located in southern Vermont, with a population of just under 5,000 people.

The drive from Albany will take 1 hour and 19 minutes and is perfect for a weekend getaway.

Indulge in the creativity of the human mind by visiting the Southern Vermont Arts Center and its eye-catching metal sculptures.

Then hike the stunning Equinox Preserve to see the serene pond and Equinox Mountain in the backdrop.

Hildene is a large estate the Lincoln family used to live in and is a charming walk through history.

Then explore charm at the Northshire Bookstore for a cozy read.

This town is where you’ll find the best attractions near Albany.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Palmer House Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection

20. Shawangunk Mountains

Shawangunk Ridge, NY 12588

Shawangunk Mountains, also known as the Shawangunk Ridge or The Gunks, is located on Ulster County’s bedrock.

These beautiful ridges can be visited 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Albany.

Indulge in the beauty of nature with a guide from the Minnewaska State Park Preserve.

This is also where you’ll find plenty of birds and other animals on the way.

Then head to the Mohonk Mountain House to rejuvenate and rest with a cup of water.

Continue your adventure through the Huckleberry Ridge State Forest, and see magnificent views on top of Sam’s Point Preserve.

It’s a fun getaway trip to do with family and kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Rodeway Inn & Suites New Paltz- Hudson Valley

21. Pottersville Caves and Park

535 Stone Bridge Rd Pottersville, NY 12860 (518) 494-2283

Pottersville Caves and Park is also known as Natural Stone Bridge and Caves and is a scenic hiking area with guided tours.

You can reach it from Albany in 1 hour and 18 minutes.

Go for thrilling fun at the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, where you can zipline, swing, and climb obstacle courses.

Have a relaxing kayak at the serene Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, or have a picnic there.

If you visit during winter, Gore Mountain is a fantastic spot for skiing and sledding.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Phoenix Inn Resort

22. Boston Massachusetts

Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts, which was founded in 1630. It’s also the 24th-most populous city in the country.

The drive to Boston from Albany will take 2 hours and 47 minutes, so bring some tunes and snacks for the road.

See some of the most iconic art pieces in the world at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Or cheer for your favorite teams in baseball at Fenway Park.

The Museum of Science is a fantastic outing with the family, with its interactive exhibits and fascinating learning.

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is also a fun exhibit to do with kids.

Then take a romantic stroll through the Public Garden and enjoy the sunset.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Langham, Boston

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in New York

23. Tanglewood, Massachusetts

297 West St Lenox, MA 01240 (413) 637-5180

Tanglewood is a live music venue in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, that hosts live performances and orchestras.

It’s a quick 43-minute drive from Albany and is perfect for music lovers.

Enjoy live concerts, musicals, and entertaining plays at this venue.

You could also set up a picnic blanket and lay out your own snacks and drinks while enjoying the show.

Nearby, the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum make for a fascinating visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Lenox Berkshires

24. Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology

500 S Franklin St Syracuse, NY 13202 (315) 425-9068

The Museum of Science and Technology is a 35,000 science museum located in Syracuse, New York, established in 1981.

It will take 2 hours and 9 minutes to drive there from Albany, but it’s well worth the trip.

Explore hands-on, interactive, and dynamic exhibits here that will never bore you.

This museum features mini versions of iconic landmarks and structures worldwide, such as the Taj Mahal.

There’s also a Science Shop where the kids can learn about science through fun exhibits.

Walk through a giant heart, see fossils and preserved butterflies, or watch a 3D show about astronomy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Syracuse Downtown

25. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, NY 14303 (716) 278-1794

The Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls in South Niagara Gorge that rises to 167 feet.

It’s famous for its stunning water flow rate of 85,000 cubic feet per second.

This iconic beauty will take 4 hours and 33 minutes to drive from Albany, but it’s worth every second.

With its majestic natural beauty, it’s one of the best day trips from Albany for photography enthusiasts.

Apart from seeing the iconic falls from an overlook directly in front of it, you can visit the Niagara Skywheel for more.

The glass-enclosed gondolas reach heights of 175 feet and offer sweeping panoramas of Niagara Falls.

There are also fun dinosaur sculptures and statues at the bottom, a Ferris wheel, and other rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Cadence

Map of Day Trips Near Albany, NY

25 Best Day Trips from Albany, NY for 2024

• Rochester’s National Museum of Play
• Saratoga Springs
• Adirondack Park Region
• Catskills Scenic Trail
• Columbia County Tourism
• Cooperstown
• Corning Museum of Glass
• Fort Ticonderoga
• Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks
• Herkimer Diamond Mines
• Howe Caverns
• Kaaterskill Falls
• Lake Placid
• Lake George
• Manchester, Vermont
• Shawangunk Mountains
• Pottersville Caves and Park
• Boston Massachusetts
• Tanglewood, Massachusetts
• Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology
• Niagara Falls

The Most Beautiful Vermont Scenic Drives: 10 Designated Byways

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: March 20, 2024

Planning a New England vacation and looking for a few beautiful Vermont scenic drives? Want to fill your days with far-reaching vistas, pastoral landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation?

Fill up your gas tank, charge your camera, and pack your sturdy footwear — it’s time for another incredible Vermont road trip!

Whether you want to get away for a week or an afternoon, these 10 incredible byways are the most scenic drives in Vermont, encompassing everything you love about Vermont road trips, no matter what season you choose to take them.

Table of Contents

Connecticut River Byway: Brattleboro to St. Johnsbury

2-3 days, 128 miles

Travel 410 miles along the Connecticut River from one end of Vermont to the other on Vermont’s only designated National Byway.

The Connecticut River Byway is a three-state, 500-mile byway, spanning the west and east shores of the Connecticut River starting in Massachusetts and traveling north through Vermont and New Hampshire to the Canadian border.

A journey on this meandering stretch of pavement includes far-reaching river views, historic river towns and cities, and acres of fertile farmland. We recommend taking a weekend trip and driving 128 miles on Route 5 from Brattleboro to St. Johnsbury, Vermont, but of course, you can drive all the way to Canada if you have time.

The Connecticut River Byway is one of the most scenic drives in Vermont, with ample opportunities for extending your vacation.

Here are some of the stops we’d recommend on this beautiful Vermont road trip:

• Latchis Hotel and Theatre, Brattleboro: The Latchis Hotel opened in 1938 in downtown Brattleboro. It’s Vermont’s only Art Deco Hotel. The Latchis Theatre, right downstairs, is a member of the League of Historic Amerian Theatres and a fun spot to see Hollywood’s latest films.
• Westminster, Vermont: Stop and enjoy Vermont’s oldest town, chartered in 1735. Most of the tiny Westminster Village (population 287) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Mount Ascutney State Park, Windsor: Gorgeous mountain vistas, unique hiking trails, and a beautiful family-friendly campground – Mount Ascutney State Park is a playground for nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers. You can hike one of four trails to the summit or drive to the summit and hike the network of trails at the top.
• Path of Life Sculpture Garden, Windsor: This 14-acre sculpture park is located in Artisans Park in Windsor, Vermont. Meander the paths through the garden and then relax with a beer at Harpoon Brewery .
• Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, Windsor: This is the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States and the longest two-span covered bridge in the world.
• King Arthur Baking Company, Norwich: King Arthur Baking Company got its start more than 200 years ago as the first flour company in the United States. You can visit King Arthur’s flagship store in Norwich, Vermont. Stock up on baking supplies, have a fantastic lunch, and sign up for a class at the   King Arthur Baking School.
• Dog Mountain, St. Johnsbury: Dog Mountain is set on 150 acres on a private mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The grounds are always open to people and their dogs. Be sure to visit the Dog Chapel, where people from all over the world come to pay tribute to dogs they have loved and lost.

Where to Stay on the Connecticut River Scenic Byway

• Latchis Hotel , Brattleboro
• Mount Ascutney State Park (camping) or Fat Sheep Farm and Cabins , Windsor
• Cherry House Bed and Breakfast , St. Johnsbury

Read Next: Paddle the Connecticut River in Windsor, Vermont

Crossroads of Vermont Byway: Rutland to Quechee

1-2 days, 41 miles

This 41-mile Vermont road trip travels from east to west through the middle of the state, traversing the Green Mountains. It can be completed in a single day, or you can stretch it out and make a weekend of it.

Start your adventure in Rutland, which got its start as a working-class city and a leading producer of marble, but has quickly become a premier destination for art lovers.

As you head east, you’ll travel through the mountain towns of Mendon, Killington, and Bridgwater before descending into Woodstock and Quechee.

You can easily do this trip in a single day, spending the morning in Rutland and arriving in Woodstock in time for a late dinner. If you choose to spend the night in Woodstock, you should spend another full day there exploring and adventuring.

Recommended stops on this Vermont road trip:

• Rutland, Vermont: Walk around town and enjoy the 15+ murals , an outdoor sculpture trail , and five art galleries.
• Killington, Vermont: Killington is an outdoor lover’s paradise, where you can hike miles of trails , swim in a mountain lake, or take a gondola to the top of Killington Peak (4,241 feet).
• Long Trail Brewing, Bridgwater Corners: Relax with a beer at one of Vermont’s oldest breweries, Long Trail Brewing Co.
• Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock : Located just outside of the village of Woodstock, Billings Farm & Museum combines an award-winning Jersey dairy farm with one of the finest outdoor history museums in the country.
• Quechee Gorge, Quechee: Quechee Gorge is known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon” and at 165 feet, is the deepest gorge in Vermont.

Where to Stay in Woodstock

We just couldn’t narrow it down, so here are a few choices!

• Woodstock Inn & Resort : For a luxury experience.
• The Shire Hotel, Woodstock, VT : Dog-friendly lodging right in town.
• Log Cabin Apartment in Woodstock:  Walk to everything from this beautiful apartment.
• Historic Cottage on a Vineyard:   A beautiful, 900-square-foot cottage on Gilbert’s Hill.

Read Next: 10 Perfect Things to do in Woodstock in the Fall

Green Mountain Byway: Waterbury to Cambridge (loop)

2-3 days, 71 miles

This 71-mile scenic Vermont road trip is part of the larger Route 100 corridor, which in my opinion is one of the most scenic drives in New England.

The Northern Green Mountains are home to both jagged peaks and open farmland. Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, as well as the stately Worcester Range, make this a dramatic landscape to explore.

The many historic towns that dot the landscape may seem isolated, but they have worked together to create communities that are as unique as they are welcoming to visitors.

The Green Mountain Byway starts in Waterbury and travels north through Stowe, Morrisville, Johnson, and Cambridge. You’ll drive through the famous Smuggler’s Notch, visit gorgeous waterfalls, and stop for a sampling of Vermont’s best ice cream, beer, cheese, and donuts. It’s quintessential Vermont in a weekend-long adventure!

While the Green Mountain Byway is a short loop, we recommend giving yourself a full weekend (or longer) to check out these sites:

• Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury: Visit the flavor graveyard, tour the factory (closed 2022), and grab a scoop from Vermont’s most famous ice cream shop.
• Cabot Farmers’ Store, Waterbury: You can never have too much Vermont cheese!
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Waterbury: Learn how cider is made, indulge in a donut (or two), and visit the hard cider tasting room.
• Waterbury Center State Park, Waterbury: Go for a walk around Waterbury Reservoir, rent a kayak, or take a dip in the clear mountain water.
• Auto Toll Road, Stowe: Drive to the top of Mount Mansfield and then hike along the ridge from the nose to the chin.z
• The Alchemist Brewery, Stowe: Pick up a four-pack of Vermont’s most famous beer, Heady Topper, or relax on the lawn with a pint.
• Bingham Falls, Stowe: A short hike leads to the beautiful Bingham Falls off of Route 108 in Smuggler’s Notch. It’s a nice swimming hole too!

Where to Stay in Stowe/Waterbury

• Trapp Family Lodge , Stowe
• Field Guide Lodge , Stowe
• Little River State Park , Waterbury (camping)

Read Next: The Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

Lake Champlain Byway: Addison to Alburgh

2-3 days, 67 miles

In its entirety, the Lake Champlain Byway totals 185 miles, hugging the length of Lake Champlain all the way to the Canadian Border.

Traveling through fertile farmland with both the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains as a distant backdrop, this scenic Vermont drive has something for everyone, whether you want to get out on Vermont’s biggest lake, explore Vermont’s biggest city, or get lost on a back road.

Start in Vergennes, Vermont’s smallest city (by area), and drive north on picturesque Route 7 into the relative metropolis of Burlington for a day of shopping and culture, and a night on the town.

Finally, spend some time exploring the Lake Champlain Islands, including Vermont’s first commercial winery and an ancient coral reef.

We recommend taking two to three days to see the following sites on this beautiful Vermont road trip:

• Lake Champlain Maritime Musem, Vergennes: Learn about Lake Champlain’s fascinating maritime history with indoor and outdoor exhibits.
• Mount Philo State Park, Charlotte: Climb (or drive) to the top of Mount Philo in Vermont’s oldest state park (1924).
• Shelburne Museum, Shelburne: This sprawling museum features multiple historic buildings, indoor and outdoor exhibits, and more than 150,000 objects in its collection of art, design, and American. Don’t miss this one!
• Church Street Marketplace, Burlington: A pedestrian-only outdoor shopping and dining area in downtown Burlington.
• ECHO Center, Burlington: Learn about the natural history, geology, and ecology of Lake Champlain right on the waterfront.
• Snow Farm Vineyard, South Hero: Vermont’s first commercial winery offers tastings in a gorgeous setting.
• Alburgh Dunes State Park, Alburgh: A beautiful expanse of sandy beach for swimming (rare on Lake Champlain).
• Chazy Reef, Isle La Motte: Visit the remnants of the oldest fossil reef in the world. Explore 85 acres of protected land and fossils that are 480 million years old!

Where to Stay on the Lake Champlain Byway

• Mount Philo State Park , Charlotte (camping)
• Hilton Lake Champlain, Burlington
• Guesthouse with Lake Champlain access (vacation rental), South Hero

Read Next: The Best Things to do in Burlington, Vermont this Summer

Mad River Byway: Warren, Waitsfield, and Middlesex

1 day , 36 miles

The Mad River Byway is another short Vermont road trip that covers a small section of Route 100 and 100B, from Warren to Middlesex. If you have a few extra days, you should add this section to the Green Mountain Byway or Scenic Route 100 Byway.

If you are looking for a fantastic day trip, the Mad River Byway is ideal. We recommend doing it in the summer, so you can take advantage of all the swimming holes and hiking in the area, but the leaf-peeping is spectacular here too.

Here are some of our favorite stops on this Vermont road trip:

• Warren Falls, Warren: One of the best swimming holes in Vermont , Warren Falls is located right off Route 100. There are shallow spots for kiddos, deep spots for cliff jumping, and gorgeous waterfalls to check out when the water is too cold to swim.
• Mad River Taste Place, Waitsfield : A specialty grocery store with delightful Vermont products, including cheese, meats, maple syrup, and gourmet foods. It’s a great stop for road trip picnic supplies and gifts!
• Mad River Path: Mad River Path is an organization dedicated to creating a system of continuous public pathways and trails connecting Warren, Waitsfield, Fayston, and Moretown. Choose from numerous trails of varying levels of difficulty.
• Red Hen Baking, Middlesex: This is our favorite bread in the state, and we have been known to embark on long car rides to get our hands on it. Since you’re in the area, you have to stop for lunch and an extra loaf for the journey!

Where to Stay on the Mad River Byway

Seeing as this is a short road trip, you probably won’t require an overnight in the area. If you are planning for a special occasion, though, I do have to mention this luxurious treehouse rental near Waterbury at the northern end of the Mad River Byway and the southern end of the Green Mountain Byway.

We stayed at Moose Meadow Treehouse for our anniversary a few years ago and loved every minute of it. Moose Meadow Lodge also offers more traditional lodging. Visitors have access to a hot tub, a delightful breakfast, and hiking trails.

Molly Stark Byway: Bennington to Brattleboro

3 days, 48 miles

The Molly Stark Byway is another short road trip that you can easily do over a long weekend. It begins in Bennington and travels through the Green Mountains on Route 9 through Woodford (the highest village in Vermont at 2,215 feet), Wilmington, ending in Brattleboro.

In case you are curious about Molly Stark – she was the wife of General John Stark, who led a Colonial militia to victory at the Battle of Bennington in 1777.

The region provides the perfect mix of history, art, and outdoor recreation, and we recommend giving yourself three days to explore the following sites:

• Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington: Vermont’s tallest man-made structure and most visited historic site, the Bennington Monument commemorates the Battle of Bennington in 1777.
• Bennington Museum, Bennington: A celebration of Vermont artists and history with the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings in the world.
• Woodford State Park, Woodford: Rent a kayak, go for a swim, or hike around the lake.
• Wilmington, Vermont: Walk the small downtown area, eat at Dot’s Diner, and explore Lake Whitingham.
• Hogback Mountain, Marlboro: Stop for the 100-mile view. Stay for pizza and a beer at Beer Naked Brewery.
• Brattleboro Museum and Art Center, Brattleboro: A non-collecting museum that focuses on new exhibits by regional artists.

Where to Stay on the Molly Stark Byway

• Harwood Hill Motel , Bennington
• Woodford State Park, Woodford (camping)
• The Willmington Inn , Wilmington
• Latchis Hotel, Brattleboro

Read Next: Explore Woodford State Park in Four Seasons

Northeast Kingdom Byway: St. Johnsbury to Newport

2 days, 51 miles

The Northeast Kingdom is one of the wildest places in Vermont and has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

Featuring lush, impenetrable forests, hidden lakes, and enduring farmsteads, the Northeast Kingdom is special. You do have to look beyond the lousy cell service and unpredictable weather, but what you’ll discover is a little piece of paradise.

The Northeast Kingdom Byway covers 51 miles between St. Johnsbury and Newport, as well as the small towns of Lyndon, East and West Burke, Westmore, Charleston, and Derby. This Vermont road trip is for nature lovers – be on the lookout for moose and deer as you drive – slowly.

Give yourself two days to explore the Northeast Kingdom.

Here are the must-visit sites and attractions on this special Vermont road trip:

• Chamberlin Mill Covered Bridge, Lyndonville: Built in 1881.
• Schoolhouse Covered Bridge, Lyndonville: Built in 1879.
• Kingdom Trails, East Burke: 100+ miles of non-motorized trails have become a premier mountain biking destination.
• Lake Willoughby, Westmore: This is Vermont’s deepest lake (312 feet), and one of the prettiest. Two steep mountains on either side give it a fjord-like appearance. Climb to the top of Mt. Hor for stunning views of Lake Willoughby and beyond.
• Lake Memprhemagog, Newport: Newport is the largest city in the area, with a thriving downtown and waterfront area.

Where to Stay on the Northeast Kingdom Byway

There are few hotels in the area, but plenty of campgrounds and cottages for rent. Check out Mountain Lake Cottages on the shore of Lake Willoughby to unplug and relax while exploring the Northeast Kingdom.

Scenic Route 100 Byway: Wilmington to Granville

2-3 days, 103 miles

If you can only choose one road trip through Vermont during your vacation, drive Route 100 from Wilmington north to Granville. Yankee Magazine called this route the best foliage drive in New England, and we couldn’t agree more.

Start in Wilmington (mentioned in the Molly Stark Byway) and head north on a leisurely journey through the mountains. Two days should be sufficient, but take three if you want to explore more of the trails and natural areas.

The northern end of the Scenic Route 100 Byway connects with the Mad River Byway in Warren.

Here are the stops you won’t want to miss on this spectacular Vermont road trip:

• Mount Snow, West Dover: In the summer and fall, you can take the Bluebird Express gondola to the top of the mountain. In the winter, Mount Snow is a popular ski resort.
• Jamaica State Park, Jamaica: Swim in the river, ride your bike on the West River Rail Trail, and hike to Hamilton Falls.
• Vermont Country Store, Weston: Vermont’s most iconic country store. Come sample Vermont cheeses, buy some penny candy, and outfit yourself in Vermont flannel!
• Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow : Located in Okemo State Forest, this lovely waterfall is also a popular spot for swimming in the summer.
• President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site: Explore the birthplace and childhood home of our 30th president. The historic village appears much as it was during Coolidge’s lifetime.
• Hike Killington : There are numerous trails in the Killington area. Here are our favorite day hikes, from easy to strenuous.
• Moss Glen Falls, Granville: One of Vermont’s prettiest waterfalls is right off Route 100.

We cover the whole 217 miles of Route 100 in our 5-day fall-foliage itinerary.

Where to Stay on the Scenic Route 100 Byway

• The Wilmington Inn , Wilmington
• Jamaica State Park, Jamaica (camping)
• Main + Mountain, Ludlow

Read Next: The Best Things to Do in Wilmington, Vermont

Shires of Vermont Byway

2 days, 23 miles

Welcome to my home turf! The Shires of Vermont Byway is named for the scenic region it passes through in southwestern Vermont.

This pastoral road trip takes through a narrow valley between the Taconic Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east.

Start your journey in Bennington, which is also the start of the Molly Stark Bway mentioned above. Drive north on Route 7A through historic towns and farms. Dirt and gravel side roads will undoubtedly tempt you, so be sure to give in a few times.

You never know what you’ll see on the back roads of southwestern Vermont!

Spend a night in Bennington and a night in Manchester to discover this 23-mile road trip.

Here are a few spots you won’t want to miss on the Shires of Vermont Byway:

• Old Bennington: Take a self-guided walking tour to explore the Bennington Monument, Old First Church, and the Bennington Museum, as well as numerous historic homes.
• Covered Bridges of Bennington County: Before leaving Bennington, check out three covered bridges. Two more can be seen in Arlington, farther north.
• Lake Shaftsbury State Park, Shaftsbury: This is a small park with a lake for swimming and a one-mile trail around the lake.
• Hildene, Manchester: This was the former summer estate of Robert Todd Lincoln, son of President Abraham Lincoln. The grounds of Hildene are worth a visit, and you can also take a tour of the house, visit a restored Pullman Car, walk the trails, and tour the working farm.
• Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester: Home of the largest outdoor sculpture park in Vermont, as well as large indoor galleries with rotating exhibits.

Where to Stay on the Shires of Vermont Byway

• The Harwood Hill, Bennington: An eclectic, artsy motel next door to a restaurant.
• The Barnstead Inn, Manchester : Modern rooms and suites on beautiful grounds within walking distance to the downtown area.

Read Next: 95+ of the Absolute Best Things to do in Vermont

Stone Valley Byway: Manchester to Hubbardton

2 days, 43 miles

Starting in Manchester, where the Shires of Vermont Scenic Byway leaves off, hop on the Stone Valley Byway, where you will learn about America’s most noted marble and slate quarries on your way to the historic town of Hubbardton.

Some of the abandoned quarries, like the Dorset Quarry, have been repurposed into popular swimming holes. Others, like the Gettysburg Quarry (pictured above), are abandoned and can be accessed via hiking trails.

Winding through fertile farmland along Route 30 for 43 miles, this is one of the loveliest Vermont scenic drives, and it makes a perfect weekend adventure. This is also a spectacular bicycle route for those of you who enjoy traveling best on two wheels.

Here are the sites you won’t want to miss on the Stone Val ley Byway :

• American Museum of Fly Fishing, Manchester: The Battenkill River, which flows through this region, is a world-class fly-fishing river, so it’s only fitting that Manchester is the home to the American Museum of Fly Fishing.
• Dorset Quarry, Dorset: If you’re driving Route 30 in the summer, you’ll find the Dorset Quarry hard to resist. Stop for a dip before continuing on your journey.
• Gilbert’s Lookout Hike, Dorset: The Town of Dorset maintains a fabulous network of hikes in the Dorset Town Forest. Our favorite is the hike to Gilbert’s Lookout, which features far-reaching views and several abandoned marble quarries.
• Lake St. Catherine State Park, Poultney: Rent a kayak or canoe, hike the short nature trail, or take a dip in the beautiful waters of Lake St. Catherine.
• Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site, Hubbardton : Site of the only Revolutionary War battle fought on Vermont soil. The Battle of Hubbardton took place on July 7, 1777.
• Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park, Hubbardton: This day-use park features hiking trails through meadows and forests, a Japanese Garden for your road trip picnic, and lots of songbirds. The mountain views are stunning!

Where to Stay on the Stone Valley Byway

• Barrows House Inn, Dorset: High-end bed and breakfast with an outdoor pool, full restaurant, and beautiful decor.
• Lake St. Catherine State Park, Poultney (camping)

Read Next: Discover Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park

For more information about these Vermont scenic drives, as well as a downloadable map and brochure, visit Vermont Vacation.

Which one of these incredible Vermont scenic drives do you want to explore first? Leave a comment and let us know!

Follow us on social media for more Vermont inspiration!

Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers , an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.

Day trips from Albany: 9 places to visit outside of New York's capital

• Published: May. 12, 2016, 4:00 p.m.
• Douglass Dowty | [email protected]

Jim McKnight | The Associated Press

Day trips from Albany

With remote mountains, the Baseball Hall of Fame , high-caliber music and a world-class resort lake nearby, there's plenty to do while staying in Albany . You'll hit the  Adirondack Mountains to the north and the  Catskill Mountains to the south. Head into the Mohawk Valley or cross over into Vermont. Here's a tour of nine places worth seeing while in Albany.

Dennis Nett | [email protected]

Cooperstown

For the better part of a century, the best players from our National Pastime have been enshrined here in the National Baseball Hall of Fame . But there's more to Cooperstown: from the  Ommegang Brewery to the  Glimmerglass Opera to shopping along the main drag, it's not just baseball. It's all about an hour and a half from Albany.

Tanglewood, Mass.

In the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, Tanglewood is the summer home to the Boston Symphony and boasts  a music festival with pop, rock and jazz. The music center is located 45 minutes from Albany, just over the border.

Stephen D. Cannerelli

Howe Caverns

This underground marvel is the second-most visited natural attraction in New York (after Niagara Falls ). It's also the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast. Go more than 150 feet below ground and explore stunning geological formations and an underground lake millions of years in the making.

Mike Groll | The Associated Press

Lake George

Cruise boats, water-themed amusement parks, fine dining and golf courses and stunning beauty are hallmarks of this tourist lake in the southeast corner of the Adirondacks. There's plenty for everyone here, whether looking for an outdoors experience or all the comforts of home. It's about an hour from Albany.

Becky Krystal | Washington Post

Kaaterskill Falls

Kaaterskill Falls, long a favorite of artists and painters, is a two-tiered waterfall taller than Niagara Falls . It's 200-foot cascade is in the forest along a moderate path from the main road. Parking is on a winding mountain road so be careful! Nearby are some of the highest  Catskills mountains and the falls are nestled into the dramatic Catskills Escarpment. The falls are an hour from Albany.

Provided photo

Manchester, Vermont

In the scenic Greene Mountains, Manchester, Vermont features all the old-town Northeast charm while providing shopping, dining and recreation. There are designer outlets, two ski mountains and arts-and-crafts shops in the bucolic village. Soak in the charm in this town dating from the mid-1700s.

Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway

Shawangunk Mountains

The Shawangunks, or Gunks, are one of the premier rock-climbing sites in the world. The mountains are a collection of private and public lands, just south of the  Catskills along the state Thruway. Visit the prestigious  Mohonk Mountain House spa or take a trek through the adjoining preserve lands. The cliffs rise up to 300 feet above the forest, providing spectacular vistas.

David Lassman | [email protected]

Saragota Springs

This tourist city north of Albany is renowned for its horse racing, historic spa and, of course, dozens of public springs. The springs bubble to the surface in various locations around town, each presenting a distinct-tasting water, from sweet to incredibly bitter. There's also a bustling shopping district downtown and plenty of places to eat. It's all about 40 minutes away from Albany.

Courtesy of gotohudson.net

Hudson, New York

This is the quintessential  Hudson Valley village, with independent coffee shops, farm-to-table restaurants and a shopping district. You can visit one of the local farms -- try Hawthorne Valley -- or visit one of the unique dining establishments. It's just a 45 minute trip down the Hudson River from Albany.

Photo provided by Albany County CVB

More to do in the Capital Region

Live theater in Albany: Where to see concerts, musicals and comedy shows

Good food on the go: 10 locally-owned fast casual restaurants in Capital Region

13 free things to do in Albany, NY

Albany on a budget: Where to go with $10, $15 and $20

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Vermont Road Trip — Fall in the Green Mountains

10+ Things to do in Odessa, Texas (and in Midland)

It’s hot outside, brutally hot. However, it’s never too soon to start planning your Fall road trip when the temperatures will cool down and the leaves turn vibrant colors. The Green Mountains’ of Vermont are a perfect Fall getaway to view the best of New England’s foliage. In Fall, the Maple trees lining the Green Mountain Highway explode with brilliant colors. As Robert Frost said that Vermont is “a state in a natural state.”  Another great thing about Vermont? It can be explored year-round, with cooling water holes in the summer and plentiful skiing the winter.

This road trip starts in Albany, New York. Why New York? Because it’s the closest major airport (read, cheaper flights) to Wilmington, Vermont. If you are planning on driving up from Boston, drive the two-and-a-half-hour drive to Wilmington, Vermont. Wilmington has a small, regional airport for those local to New England. The ride from Albany into Wilmington also takes you through the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests. It’s a beautiful introduction to Vermont.

Tips Before You Hit the Road

• You will be heading up and down some steep mountains (not hills) so check your vehicle’s air pressure and make sure they are perfectly inflated. Also, perform basic car maintenance to ensure that your brake and transmission fluids are filled.
• Speaking of mountains, check your speed while going downhill. Try not to go down any faster than you went up and try not to ride your brakes.
• Don’t hug the center line when driving around a curve. The mountain roads are narrower than the highways and some of these roads are simple two-lane roads.
• Before going off-road or into some of the regions, check the local weather for road conditions or flash flood warnings.
• Higher elevations can lead to dehydration, thus leading to altitude sickness. Carry plenty of water for each person and keep hydrated.
• Don’t wear flip-flops, sandals, or other simple shoes. You never know when you might want to take a quick walk or hike up to see the vistas. Wear hiking boots, tennis shoes, or other durable shoes that cover your entire feet.

How long? Depending upon when you start, and if you like to take hikes, it can vary from a few hours to a weekend trip. I would recommend two days to fully take in all that the area has to offer. Spend the night at one of the area’s hotels or go camping at any of the nearby parks. Montpelier, Vermont’s capital city, is about half-way through the tour, so that might be a great place to stop for the evening. If you plan on just driving through, then you could do it in a day quite easily. Just remember that you will be navigating mountain roads, so you will be (or should be) going slower and it can get tiring navigating the twists and turns. Plan for 35 mph in some of the local areas.

Time of Year? Late September into October is when the area is at its most beautiful, with color lighting up the Green Mountains to fiery shades of orange, gold, and red. The summer months are also good for finding cool spots in the heat by visiting numerous waterfalls and hidden swimming holes. Some of New England’s largest ski resorts are here, so it is also a great winter getaway. Maybe I should change the answer to “year-round?”

Map not working on your phone? Try this one.

Vermont Fall in the Green Mountains Itinerary

Start in albany, new york.

From Albany, follow I-787 N to NY-7 E. Once you enter into Vermont, take VT-9 E to Wilmington, Vermont. On your path, you will cross the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forest for some spectacular views on your way to your first stop.

Mount Olga Fire Lookout Tower inside Molly Stark State Park

Mt. Olga Trailhead Parking, Guilford, VT 05301

Continue on Route 9 past Wilmington, Vermont to Molly Stark State Park. The Mount Olga Fire Lookout Tower is a moderately easy hike that provides a cool overlook of the area. This tower, constructed in 1930, is used as a popular hiking destination and viewpoint within the mountain. The rolling hills of New Hampshire are viewable to the east. The crimson maples and canary-yellow birch trees are visible in early Fall and make an impressive start to a Fall road trip. Note that the first half of the hike up to the tower is all uphill and you don’t have much of a view. Heading downhill is easy, and the view’s worth it. If you don’t feel like hiking up to the tower, visit the park’s recreational area along Route 9 (Molly Stark State Park, 705 VT-9, Wilmington, VT 05363). A path also leads to the summit of 2,415-foot Mount Olga.

Townshend State Park

2755 State Forest Rd, Townshend, VT 05353

As you drive into Townshend, Hemlocks and Hemlock-Northern Hardwood trees cover the nearby mountains. Townshend State Park, in the tiny village of Townshend and Townshend State Forest, provides stunning views of Bald Mountain and the nearby river valley. At the park, access one of Vermont’s most beautiful bridges—the Scott Covered Bridge. The Bald Mountain Trail passes various waterfalls, pools, and wooded ravines lead to the 1,680-foot summit of Bald Mountain. From the overlook, you can view the farms and forests along the West River valley.  Additional trails are available that are less strenuous that still provide spectacular vistas.

Jamaica State Park

48 Salmon Hole Ln, Jamaica, VT 05343

In the 772-acre Jamaica State Park, The West River loops eastward toward the bulk of Ball Mountain. In the Fall, the trail leading from the park along the water is an unbeatable walk with a wide variety of trees. Cobb Brook plunges 125-foot plunge at Hamilton Falls. The path is relatively flat for over two miles and then becomes rocky for a couple of more miles. No swimming is allowed (or recommended) at the Falls due to the rocky environment and swift currents. If In the summer months, you can also go swimming at the Salmon Hole (but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it in the fall). If you are not interested in a nature hike to the Falls, then continue driving West into the Winhall Municipal Forest.

Stratton Village (Stratton Mountain Resort)

Stratton Mountain, 5781 Mountain Road, South Londonderry, VT 05155

During the winter months, Stratton Village is like a Swiss village located in the Alps with the magnificent ski slopes of Stratton Mountain Resort looming nearby. In the Fall months, you can still visit the village and the resort, but the forest around you is alive with colors of red, orange, and yellow trees that dot the landscape. The village has a variety of shopping centers and places to eat, similar to Estes Park in Colorado. Stratton Mountain is Vermont’s highest peak and plentiful hiking is nearby. Visit the Stratton Fire towner from a .75-mile beginner route from the gondola tower.  After taking in the view from the peak, we’ll head back down to visit the 18 th -century town of Weston, Vermont.

Old Mill Museum

4 Park St, Weston, VT 05161

The Mill Museum is an 18 th -century grist mill that evokes the Vermont of yesteryear. The museum is also within walking distances of the village of Weston’s shops and stores. Next to the museum is a colonial-era residence that dates from 1795 with time-period furniture, kitchen tools, and toys. The trees, millpond, and waterfall of the Mill is also a great place for photography. While in Weston, visit the Vermont Country Store (657 Main Street, Weston, Vermont 05161) for everything from antiques to practical goods. The Weston Village Christmas Shop (660 Main Street, Weston, Vermont 05161) is also a popular place to purchase some Christmas ornaments from around the world.

Okemo Mountain Resort

Mountain Lodge at Okemo, 318 Mountain Rd, Ludlow, VT 05149

Okemo Mountain Resort is a year-round attraction that has everything from a zip line to downhill mountain biking. The best part of this trip is simply the drive up to the resort, where you will pass the beautiful forests up to stunning views. You can also ride the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster, which takes you on 1,600-foot climb followed by a 375 vertical-foot descent along 3,100 feet of track that follows the contours of the mountain (think Six Flags roller coaster). You can also follow a paved road to Okemo’s 3,343-foot summit or take a hike from the resort itself.

The Plymouth Notch Historic District ( President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site )

3780 VT-100A, Plymouth, VT 05056

The village of Plymouth Notice is a tiny hamlet where time has stood still. Surrounded by hills, the 19 th -century settlement is where President Calvin College was born and raised. Similar to the Lincoln Home national park , the little crossroads settlement called the Plymouth Historic District remains virtually the same as it did during Coolidge’s time. Visit the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, a 19 th century home with original period furnishings. Along with the house, you can also see the little one-room schoolhouse, the Union Christian Church built in 1840, the Florence Cilley General store, the Wilder Barnes and house, and the cheese factory where the president’s father once worked.

Gifford Woods State Park

34 Gifford Woods Acc, Killington, VT 05751

This 113-acre park is known for the Gifford Woods Natural Area. One of the few remaining old growth forests in the northeastern United States, the 7-acre old-growth northern hardwood forest is perfect for viewing Fall foliage. The Kent Brook Trail is a one-mile loop that goes through the hardwood forests of the park and the Gifford Woods Interpretive Trail is a shorter loop at .3 miles.

Montpelier, Vermont’s Capital City

115 State St, Montpelier, VT 05633-0004

This tour winds down in Montpelier, the capital city of Vermont. The gold-domed Greek Revival State House was built in 1859. The design of the building is reflective of the style of the nation’s capital building. The dome is currently under renovation, but you can still tour the grounds and the building for free. Self-guided tours are available, or you can take a half-hour tour. One additional site that I would suggest is the Bragg Farm Sugar House & Gift Shop (1005 Vt Route 14 S, Montpelier, VT 05651-9765) for a true taste of Vermont. The Maple syrup season in Vermont is late February through April, so if you want to experience the maple sugaring process, Fall isn’t the best time to go. However, the town is lit up with the brilliance of Fall colors, so you’re not missing out on much by visiting this capital city.

Elmore State Park

56 Patch Ln, Wolcott, VT 05680

The blaze of color fully ignites the Green Mountains as you begin heading into the colder valley and temperate lowlands. Stop at Elmore State Park to hike up to Elmore Mountain to view the abandoned fire tower at the summit. From the summit, you have a perfect view of the fall foliage below. The foliage is also reflected in the waters of Lake Elmore, which has a swimming beach and picnic area.

Stowe, Vermont | Stowe Community Church

137 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

Charted in 1763, Stowe is a classic New England village in the Green Mountains. The narrow spire of Stowe’s Community Church is most recognizable of Vermont’s Route 100s many country villages. The church was plotted in 1818 and is still one of the most recognizable structures in the mountains. From the 10-mile drive up from Waterbury, you’ll also see a magnificent view of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield. Mount Mansfield State Forest rises from the west and CC Putnam State Forest is visible to the east.

Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory Tour & Ice Cream Shop

1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

While it may seem strange to go on a tour of an ice cream shop in the Fall months, the Waterbury Factory tour on Route 100 is a must see. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield set an ice cream shop in a converted gas station in 1978, and this area has been known for Ben and Jerry’s ever since. The thirty-minute tour is a great place to get out and stretch your legs. It’s also a beautiful area, especially during the Fall foliage season.

Texas Falls Recreation Area (Middlebury gap)

Hancock, VT 05748

After passing by the college town of Middlebury Gap, take time for a small picnic at the Texas Falls Recreation Area. Take a one-mile hike up to where the Hancock Branch of the White River into one of New England’s most beautiful waterfalls. A viewing area and small suspension bridge leads to a trail at the bottom of the stream. The walk down to the stream can be a little tricky (especially after rain), but the toilet facilities and picnic beaches make for a great stop to enjoy lunch in all of nature’s beauty.

Deer Leap Trail (Rutland, VT)

139 U.S. 4, Killington, VT 05751

Finish off the final part of the tour in beautiful Rutland, Vermont on Route 7. Rutland is the third largest city in Vermont and the site of the Vermont State Fair. The city’s downtown is listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. Places to see include Wilson Castle and Hildene-The Lincoln Family Home. Outside the town near the Pico Mountain Ski Resort is Deer Leap Trail. Take the 2-mile hike to an outlook with an absolutely incredible view. The trail can be steep in places, but you can go to certain points and still have an amazing view.

Afterward, follow the route back down south on US-7 to VT-279 into Bennington. Then take the VT-279 exit from US-7 and follow it into Troy, New York. Then take I-787 into Albany, New York.

Recommended Items

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High-Protein Snack Food

Hiking Shoes

Atlas & Compass

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The Perfect Vermont Route 7 Road Trip: A 5-Day Itinerary

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: March 6, 2023

Categories Vermont , Destinations , New England USA , road trips , United States

Historic New England towns. Awesome swimming holes. Cute farm stands. And cows – lots and lots of cows. Vermont’s Route 7 travels 176 miles from Pownal in the south to Highgate on the Canadian border in the north.

This mostly rural stretch of pavement makes for a fabulous and scenic road trip, full of natural beauty, fun towns, and interesting attractions. We’ll start in the historic town of Bennington and bring you north as far as Burlington. 

If you have more than five days to spend on your road trip, I highly suggest continuing on and heading north to the Lake Champlain Islands, which are worthy of their very own weekend getaway!

If you’ve got five days, you can take a leisurely journey up Route 7 in Vermont, but you can also do this trip over a long weekend. We’re proponents of slow travel, when possible, but three days in Vermont is better than zero! 

Our Vermont Route 7 itinerary covers all of our favorite things: lovely walks and rambles, fun historic sites, local food and drink, and even a few awesome places to take a summer dip. 

So, start making your Vermont road trip playlist and packing the car, because this is a road trip you won’t want to miss.

We’re going to begin our Route 7 road trip in Bennington and head north on Route 7 to Burlington. Feel free to flip this itinerary around if you want to start in Burlington and head south. Not only is Bennington my hometown, but it’s just an hour from Albany International Airport and within four hours of both Boston and NYC. That makes this road trip a great getaway for just about anyone living in the Northeast!

Table of Contents

Day 1: Explore Bennington, Vermont

Today you’re exploring the beautiful and historic town of Bennington, Vermont. In Bennington, you can tour Vermont’s tallest building, visit the grave of a famous poet, and enjoy a fabulous meal on Main Street before turning in for the night. Driving time: Depends on where you’re coming from.

Explore the Old Bennington Historic District

Bennington is a small town (population 15,000) with a walkable downtown and historic sites dating back to the Revolution. Start by exploring the village of Old Bennington, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

If you park your car at the Bennington Battle Monument , you can explore the rest of Old Bennington on foot. Not only is the Bennington Battle Monument Vermont’s tallest man-made building, but it is also our most-visited state historic site. 

The Monument was completed in 1889 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington, which took place on August 16, 1777, during the Revolutionary War. 

Between May 1st and October 31st, you can ride to the top of the Monument in an elevator for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The Bennington Monument and gift shop are currently open between Thursday and Monday, from  9 am to 5 pm. 

Next, stroll down Monument Avenue past many Revolutionary War Era homes and on to the Old First Church , which was the first gathered church in Vermont. Although the lovely church that stands there now isn’t the original, it’s been around since 1805.

Behind the Old First Church, you’ll discover one of the oldest cemeteries in Vermont. Many of the gravestones here provide stellar examples of historic death imagery that was popular during the late 1700s. Robert Frost, Vermont’s most famous poet, is buried here, along with his family. Follow the signs to his grave, you can’t miss it.

Read Next: 7 Beautiful Spots to Visit in Bennington, Vermont

Lunch: Madison Brewing Company

428 Main Street, Bennington, Vermont

When we want casual fare and locally crafted beer at decent prices, we head to Madison Brewing Company on Main Street in Bennington. The food is reliably good, the atmosphere is friendly, and the service is great. They have several vegetarian options, which I appreciate, and good burgers, which Eric loves. 

The beer menu changes with the season, but you can always get our favorite, Old 76, which is an English Yorkshire-style ale. It’s very malty and strong – perfect for a fall road trip. In the summer, I almost always get the IPA.

Bennington Museum

With a strong focus on Vermont history and art, Bennington Museum includes a huge treasury of cultural artifacts and works of art, including the largest public collection of Grandma Moses paintings in the world.

Grandma Moses lived just over the border in New York and was a self-taught folk artist who began her painting career when she was 78 years old. She is a local legend in these parts and experienced critical acclaim across the country during her lifetime and beyond.

Permanent collections include several galleries of fine and modern art, a textile gallery including one of the oldest American flags in existence, and an eclectic mix of special exhibitions.

Bennington Museum has variable hours, depending on when you visit. Between June and October, it is open every day except Wednesday , from 10 am to 4 pm.

Dinner: The Miller’s Toll

716 Main Street, Bennington, Vermont

We have never had a bad meal at The Miller’s Toll , although we wish that they were open more often! The Miller’s Toll offers the best cocktails around, as well as small plates, wood-fired flatbread, and lots of vegetarian options. It’s small, dark, and bistro-like, with outdoor dining in the summer.

The Miller’s Toll is open Thursday – Saturday, from 5-9 pm.

Where to stay in Bennington, Vermont

You’ve got several choices for lodging in Bennington, depending on what you’re looking for. Here are our top picks from budget to luxury:

• Upscale:   South Shire  has nine delightful rooms housed in a beautiful Victorian home within walking distance of town.
• Budget: The Harwood Hill . This lovely motel boasts one of the best views in Bennington. The rooms and the grounds are decorated with art from local artists, and they host an artist-in-residence each season. The rooms are comfy and beautifully decorated.
• Camping: If you want to pitch your tent or park your RV, definitely head east on Route 9 to Woodford State Park, where you’ll find waterfront camping, swimming, and kayak rentals. 
• Vacation rental: Need more room to spread out? Our extended family rented this renovated barn just outside of Bennington one winter and loved it. It’s very Vermonty, with lots of room for the whole family. 

Day 2: Bennington to Manchester

This section of Route 7 is only 23 miles, so take your time. There are actually two Route 7s between Bennington and Manchester. Route 7A was the original Route 7, traveling through several small towns en route to Manchester.

A larger two-lane freeway was eventually built so vehicles could travel at 55 mph and those small towns were bypassed. We call the two roads Big 7 and Little 7. For this trip, we’re hopping on Little 7 (7A) so you get the full Vermont experience. Driving distance: 23 miles

Breakfast: The Blue Benn

314 North Street, Bennington, Vermont

The Blue Benn Diner is an institution in Vermont and a must-visit when you’re in Bennington. The diner closed for a brief spell in 2020, and for a while, we all worried that it was done for. Fortunately, new owners quickly stepped in to keep it running.

This is a classic diner car, built in 1948, and complete with table-top jukeboxes and lots of items on the menu. Get there early so you don’t have to wait!

I recommend any of the creative omelets, especially the Mexican, but you also can’t go wrong with blueberry pancakes and real Vermont maple syrup!

The Blue Benn is open seven days a week from 6 am – 2 pm .

Covered Bridge Tour of Bennington County

As you head north on Route 7A through Bennington’s shopping strip, take a detour onto Route 67A to visit three covered bridges in Bennington and North Bennington. All three covered bridges cross the Walloomsac River, and they are all within a few miles of each other. You can easily view all three covered bridges in less than an hour. Here’s a quick overview. 

Silk Road Covered Bridge, Bennington, Vermont

The Silk Road Covered Bridge carries Silk Road over the Walloomsac River in Bennington. It is the first in a series of Walloomsac River bridges that are all located within two miles of each other in Bennington and North Bennington.

A bridge has spanned the Walloomsac in this location since 1790, but the current Silk Road covered bridge was built in 1840. It is the oldest covered bridge still standing in Bennington County. This is a single-span Town Lattice Truss built by Benjamin Sears, who was a prominent builder at the time.

There is a small pull-off on both the north and south side of the bridge, with short trails down to the river for better views.

Paper Mill Village Bridge, Bennington, Vermont

The current Paper Mill Covered Bridge was built in 2000 and is a replacement of the original that was built in 1889. This is a Town lattice truss spanning 122 feet along Murphy Road. The Paper Mill Covered Bridge is similar in design to the Silk Road Bridge and is the longest covered bridge in Bennington County.

The site was home to one of Vermont’s first paper mills, and the dam below the bridge provided hydroelectric power to fuel industry in the community.

The area to the north of the Paper Mill Covered Bridge is private property. On the south end of the bridge, there is a small parking area. A short trail on the west side leads to multiple viewing sites with good views of the dam and the bridge. This is also a great spot to go fishing!

Burt Henry Covered Bridge, North Bennington, Vermont

The location where the Burt Henry Covered Bridge spans the Walloomsac River has been an important crossing since early colonial times. The original covered bridge was a double-span, built in 1840, but was entirely replaced as a single-span in 1989. This is a Town lattice truss bridge that carries River Road for 121 feet across the Walloomsac.

Park in the small parking area just north of the entrance to the bridge. Of the three covered bridges in Bennington, the Burt Henry Covered Bridge provides the best access. It’s a great spot for picnicking, fishing, and cooling off (but it’s still not deep enough for swimming).

Arlington Green Covered Bridge, Arlington, Vermont

Now it’s time to leave Bennington behind and head north. Continue on Route 67A and then turn left on Route 67 until you get to the junction of 7A. From here, you will drive north through Shaftsbury and into the town of Arlington.

The painter Norman Rockwell, who is famous for so many scenes of New England life, made a home with his family in Arlington for 14 years. Take a short detour off of 7A and head east on Route 313 when you get to Arlington. In about four miles, you’ll come to the Arlington Green Covered Bridge. 

Drive through the bridge and park your car on the other side. The Arlington Green Covered Bridge is the most photographed bridge in Vermont. This is also a great spot to take a dip underneath if the weather is cooperating. After taking in the pastoral views, stroll down the road a piece to Rockwell’s Retreat, a historic inn that was built in 1792.

The view of the bridge from in front of the inn is the very same that Norman Rockwell enjoyed in the decade he lived here from 1938 to 1953.

Read Next: Explore the Covered Bridges of Bennington County, Vermont

Lunch: Amy’s on the Road

4361 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont

Amy’s on the Road is a food truck sensation, serving locally sourced meals out of an Airstream. Find Amy’s next to Mother Myrick’s Confectionery (perfect for dessert) on Main Street. Sit outdoors, enjoy some live music (if you’re lucky), and indulge in a fried chicken sandwich or a homemade veggie burger.  

Amy’s on the Road is open Monday – Saturday 8 am – 2:30 pm and closed on Sundays.

Northshire Bookstore

4869 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont

You can’t visit Manchester without popping into my favorite bookstore! The Northshire Bookstore on Main Street is an institution, with enough books to make your head spin, including a great used book section, a music section, and a fabulous floor dedicated to children’s books, games, and puzzles.

If you’re a book lover, a visit to Northshire Bookstore is an absolute must! And if you love shopping, you should probably spend the rest of the day meandering around Manchester, which is known for its outlet stores and boutique shopping.

Northshire Bookstore is open daily from 10 am – 7 pm.

Two Options for an Afternoon in Manchester, Vermont

Because there’s a lot to do in this little town, I’m giving you two options for spending your afternoon in Manchester, Vermont. 

Option One: Explore Mt. Equinox

Want to work up a sweat and get outdoors? I recommend hiking to the top of Mt. Equinox in the Equinox Preserve. The Equinox Preserve consists of over 914 acres on the slopes of Mt Equinox, and there are numerous hikes for all abilities.

If you want a leisurely stroll in the woods, hike the loop around Equinox Pond (.75 miles). For a serious workout to the summit of Mt. Equinox, hike 6.2 miles (round-trip) up a steep trail with 2,840 feet of elevation change. Mt. Equinox is the tallest mountain in the Taconic Range at 3,855 feet. Find trail descriptions and a trail map at Equinox Preserve Trust . 

If you want the amazing view from the summit of Mt. Equinox, but don’t want to put in the work, you can also drive to the top on Mount Equinox Skyline Drive . So many choices!

Option Two: Southern Vermont Arts Center

93 SVAC Drive, Manchester, Vermont

Located on 120 acres on the side of Mt. Equinox, Southern Vermont Arts Center includes numerous galleries that feature more than 1,000 works from regional artists in their permanent collection, as well as a rotating collection of special exhibitions and the largest outdoor sculpture park in Vermont. 

A tour of the grounds and galleries is an inspiring way to spend the afternoon, and there’s even a cafe if you need some extra nourishment. We especially love the woodland trails and outdoor sculptures!

Southern Vermont Arts Center is open Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm.

Dinner: Seasons

4566 main street, manchester center, vermont.

We love the outdoor seating area at Seasons in Manchester, so if you’re traveling during the summer or fall, we definitely recommend it! The maple-roasted pear and arugula salad is great if you want something light, and they also have a unique selection of sandwiches and burgers. I hear the fish tacos are awesome too!

Seasons is open Tuesday to Thursday from 5 pm – 8:30 pm, Friday and Saturday from 5 pm – 9 pm , and Sunday from 12 pm – 4 pm.

Where to Stay in Manchester

• Luxurious : Built in the 1880s, the Inn at Manchester is a historic bed and breakfast on four landscaped acres, but within walking distance to the town’s historic district. Beautifully appointed guest rooms all have modern comforts and luxurious linens. Children over 13 are welcome. 
• Budget: Manchester View is a cozy motel-style inn with an outdoor pool, farmhouse decor, and rooms with fireplaces. Breakfast is included.
• Camping: I f you plan on camping, head north out of Manchester to Emerald Lake State Park . This beautiful lake provides some of the west swimming in Southern Vermont, and there’s a nice hiking trail around the lake as well. 
• Vacation rental: Need more room to spread out? This historic, dog-friendly vacation rental is located right in town and sleeps four at an affordable price. 

Day 3: Manchester to Middlebury

Continuing north on Route 7, today takes you on a few outdoor adventures and an exploration of the historic city of Rutland and its fabulous murals. Total driving time: 78 miles

Breakfast: Up for Breakfast

4935 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont

Start the day off right at the bustling Up for Breakfast (cash only) on Main Street in Manchester. Treat yourself to the french toast with real maple syrup and a side of local sausage. Might as well overdose on the maple goodness with maple lattes too!

Up for Breakfast is open from Monday through Friday from 7 am – 12:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 7 am – 1:30 pm.

Check out the Incredible Murals in Rutland, Vermont

For years, Rutland has been known as a no-nonsense, working-class city with a cute historic district and a history as one of the world’s leading producers of marble. But, Rutland has an up-and-coming art scene that is worth checking out.

Not only is the downtown area home to five unique art galleries, but downtown Rutland has also commissioned 15 larger-than-life murals that have been painted on historic buildings and walls throughout the city.

Park your car in downtown Rutland to explore the murals and the downtown area.

Lunch: Roots Rutland

55 Washington Street, Rutland, Vermont

Roots is a gem of a restaurant in Rutland with an eclectic menu from minimally processed, locally grown food. Although the menu changes with the seasons, we’ve always had the good fortune of a stellar dining experience. There are a lot of amazing vegetarian options too! Current favorites include fried Brussels sprouts, which I can never turn down, and the pan-seared tofu served over Chermulla beet & potato hash with spinach & roasted garlic aioli. Yum! 

Roots Rutland is currently open from 11:30 pm to 8 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park

After lunch, take a quick detour off of Vermont Route 7 to one of my all-time favorite Vermont State Parks. Vermont’s newest state park is appropriately named — Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park is a unique collection of hiking trails meandering over 204 acres of fields, forests, gorges, cliffs, and gardens. 

This is an undeveloped park with no amenities, but it is worth visiting for the stellar views, the cool Japanese gardens, and the fun/challenging trails. Find out why we love Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park and then put it on your itinerary! Give yourself a few hours to explore here.

Dinner: Fire and Ice

26 Seymour Street, Middlebury, Vermont

From Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park, drive north on Route 30 for about 25 miles until you get to Middlebury, which you’ll be exploring tomorrow.

Fire and Ice is a uniquely decorated restaurant with delicious food – mostly steak and seafood, but there are a few nice vegetarian options as well. They’ve been a Middlebury institution for almost four decades! Eat in the cozy dining room or outdoors on the patio, but be sure to make reservations ahead of time. Oh, and for dessert, get the Vermont Mud Pie!

If you are looking for more casual fare, the attached Big Moose Pub has a tavern menu and bar seating. Fire and Ice is open for dinner Wednesday through Friday from 4 – 8 pm, and lunch on Saturdays and Sundays starting at noon.

Where to Stay in Middlebury, Vermont

• Luxurious: Swift House Inn is located just two blocks from downtown in a former governor’s mansion on four acres of land. The upscale rooms are spread across three historic homes.
• Budget: I have always wanted to stay at Middlebury Sweets Motel , which is a budget-friendly motel with a candy theme! You’ll find Middlebury Sweets on the property – the largest candy store in Vermont! 
• Camping: Rivers Bend Campground provides waterfront camping with full hook-ups and an outdoor pool in nearby New Haven. It’s one of the very few private campgrounds we recommend. 
• Vacation rental: Need more space? Rent this three-bedroom home within walking distance to downtown Middlebury. It’s pet-friendly and includes a fully-stocked kitchen.

Day 4: Middlebury to Shelburne

Today you’ll explore Middlebury and then drive north to Shelburne. As you drive north on Route 7, you’ll finally get a glimpse of our beautiful Lake Champlain, which is 124 miles long and covers 490 square miles! Lake Champlain is the sixth largest lake in the US, after the five Great Lakes.

Be on the lookout for our loveable lake monster, Champ, who is said to be a cousin of the Loch Ness Monster. Total driving time: 29 miles

Breakfast: Otter Creek Bakery

14 College Street, Middlebury, Vermont

Whether you want to relax with a croissant and a cup of coffee or go all out with a breakfast pizza, you can do it at Otter Creek Bakery. Great outdoor seating, and delightful coffee drinks. It’s centrally located on College Street.

Otter Creek Bakery is open from 7 am – 2:30 pm from Monday through Saturday, 7 am – 4:00 pm

After breakfast, take some time to stroll around downtown. Pop into a few shops and check out the view of Middlebury Falls. 

UVM Morgan Horse Farm, Weybridge, Vermont

Did you know that the Morgan horse is one of the earliest horse breeds developed in the United States and that it is the state animal of Vermont? I’ve been visiting the Morgan Horse Farm ever since I was a kid and read Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry. This is a working horse farm that was created in 1907 to improve the breed. In 1951, it was transferred to the University of Vermont. 

Take a tour of this beautiful farm and learn about the history of the Morgan horse. The views alone are worth the trip, but the horses make it extra special! Advanced registration for tours is currently required. 

Read Next: 95+ of the Best Things to Do in Vermont

Lunch: 3 Squares Cafe

141 Main Street, Vergennes, Vermont

3 Squares Cafe is a casual, eclectic cafe in Vergennes Vermont, which you’ll drive through on your way to Shelburne.

Follow the signs to Vergennes as you’re driving on Route 7 and make the left-hand turn into town. You can’t miss it! While you won’t have time to explore Vergennes with this itinerary, I recommend giving more than a drive-by if you have time.

3 Squares has been around for at least a decade, and it’s one of our favorite stops when we’re road-tripping on Route 7. They’ve got a fun selection of hot sandwiches, burgers, and vegetarian options, and a great atmosphere inside and out. 

3 Squares is open Thursday to Monday, from 8 am to 3 pm.

Relax and Rejuvenate at Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms is one of my favorite places in the world.

Not only is it a beautiful working farm, but the views are beyond incredible, there are lots of walking trails, and you can spend the night! We have visited Shelburne Farms for kids’ programs and for lots of special events, but it’s such a great destination to just unplug and soak up the Vermont vibes. 

Your next few days will be very busy exploring Shelburne and Burlington, so for this afternoon, I’m advocating that you take it easy and spend the rest of the day, dinner, and night at Shelburne Farms.

Dinner: Folino’s Wood-Fired Pizza

6305 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, Vermont

Folino’s makes the best wood-fired pizza we’ve ever had in Vermont. The slightly charred, crispy crust is so yummy, and you can get fun combinations of toppings.

Another bonus: Folino’s is BYOB, and is located right next door to Fiddlehead Brewing Company, making this a great stop for craft beer lovers! 

Folino’s is open Sunday through Thursday from 12 pm – 8 pm , and Friday and Saturday from 12 pm – 9 pm.

Where to Stay in Shelburne, Vermont

• Luxurious: The Inn at Shelburne Farms is a special treat if you can get a room. Be sure to watch the sunset over Lake Champlain!
• Budget: Days Inn Shelburne is a budget-friendly motel with clean rooms and a nice outdoor pool. It is just north of the village. 
• Camping: Mt. Philo State Park is such a gem! It’s about eight miles south of Shelburne with just a handful of sites. This is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset and the campsites are really quiet. 

Day 5: Shelburne To Burlington

Today you’ll be exploring the renowned Shelburne Museum and then heading north to Vermont’s biggest city. Total driving time: 8 miles

Breakfast: Rustic Roots 195 Falls Road, Shelburne, Vermont

Ready to fill up on some seriously good eats before today’s adventures? Rustic Roots is a chef-owned restaurant serving delectable breakfast and lunch on the village green in Shelburne. Patio seating is available and breakfast and lunch are both served all day. The breakfast sandwiches and popovers are my two favorites, but the menu has all kinds of goodies, so bring a big appetite!

Rustic Roots is open from Wednesday through Sundayy from 9 am – 2 pm.

Explore the Shelburne Museum

I’ve been visiting Shelburne Museum since I was a kid so there’s a lot of nostalgia attached to my visits, but I’ve also brought first-time visitors and everyone agrees that it is one of the best museums in Vermont. 

The collections at Shelburne Museum are an eclectic mix of historical artifacts, folk art, circus pieces, textiles, and other interesting bits of Americana. Galleries are spread across 39 historic buildings on 45 beautifully landscaped acres.

As a kid, I especially loved hopping aboard the Ticonderoga steamboat, which roamed Lake Champlain from 1906 until 1953. I loved that such a huge boat was parked on the museum lawn and that I could actually climb on board to see what it would have been like in 1923. 

While the Ticonderoga will surely be a favorite for you too, you can also visit a covered bridge, a jailhouse, a locomotive, a huge round barn, a blacksmith shop, and a lighthouse. You can spend a full day at the Shelburne Museum, and we wouldn’t blame you a bit if that’s what you decide to do! 

Insider tip: If you do decide to spend the day at the museum, you can get window take-out service at Weathervane Cafe. The menu is pretty basic, but they do have soup, sandwiches, and ice cream, which is more than enough. 

Rent Bikes and Explore the Bike Path in Burlington

Assuming you had lunch at the museum, your next stop will be Local Motion to rent bikes for the afternoon.

If you haven’t eaten, you will find lots of eateries on Church Street, which is a pedestrian-only shopping area. Public parking is available on the street or at a number of parking garages around town (just follow the parking signs).

Local Motion is a nonprofit organization that advocates for active transportation and safe streets. It’s located right on the Burlington bike path along Lake Champlain. At Local Motion, you can rent regular bikes, tandem bikes, child bikes and trailers, and E-bikes. You should reserve your bikes ahead of time so that you don’t miss out. 

Once you have your bike rental, head north on the Burlington Greenway (bike path), which runs for 14 miles along Lake Champlain. You will see lots of places to stop and explore on your journey, including the Burlington waterfront and a few small beaches.

Here’s a trail map to help with planning.

Anywhere along the bike path makes the perfect sunset spot, so if you have your bike rental for more than a single day, definitely take advantage!

Dinner: Honey Road

156 Church Street, Burlington, Vermont 

There are a lot of great restaurants in Burlington, and it was so hard to choose a favorite spot to recommend, but I’m going with Honey Road because I’ve been craving their small plates and cocktails for months. If you can’t get a table at Honey Road, reach out and I’ll try and recommend something else. 

I’ve been pretty much obsessed with Honey Road since they opened a few years ago. Featuring Eastern Mediterranean cuisine in a small, but bustling restaurant, Honey Road is one of the top-rated restaurants in Burlington and 100% worth the effort it takes to get a table.

If you think of it, reserve several days in advance, so you don’t miss out. Small plates make it easy to mix and match your meal with your travel companions, which also means you can try more food!

Honey Road is open for lunch and dinner between Sunday and Thursday, 4 – 9 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 4- 10 pm.

Enjoy Nightlife in Burlington

Up until now, you’ve been driving through rural Vermont and enjoying small villages and outdoor recreation, but Burlington is our big city and it has real nightlife! If you’re craving a night on the town, tonight is your chance!

While I can’t predict what the music scene will look like during your trip, here are some great spots to imbibe. Pick up a copy of Seven Days when you get into town for a taste of what’s happening while you’re there. Here are some of the local hot spots.

• The Archives: Beer, cocktails, and vintage arcade games are exactly what you’ve been looking for. 
• ArtsRiot: Indoor/outdoor seating, great cocktails, a robust food menu, and art. What more could you ask for?
• Red Square: Known for its robust drink menu, live music, and DJs, Red Square is perfect for late-night adventures!
• Three Needs Taproom: A Burlington staple for decades now, the Three Needs is the place to go for craft beer and cocktails, a game of pool, and cozy outdoor seating. This gem of a place is not to be missed!

Where to Stay in Burlington, Vermont

You have a lot of choices for lodging in Burlington. While I recommend staying somewhere within walking distance of downtown, those choices are a bit on the pricey side. I’ve included a favorite motel in Colchester if you want a budget option.

• Luxurious: Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain has gorgeous views of the lake and is within walking distance of Church Street, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Budget: Starlight Inn is actually in Colchester, a few miles outside of Burlington, but it’s right next to the drive-in movie theater and all the rooms have a movie theme. We are huge fans of quirky motels and this one is awesome!
• Camping: You can actually camp right in the city at North Beach, right on the bike path. Sites are not secluded, but this is a great way to stay on the water for an affordable price. 
• Vacation rental: Need more room to spread out? This historic home on VRBO sleeps six and is within walking distance of downtown. It’s got three bedrooms, a full kitchen, and two parking spots. 

Read Next: The Best Things to do in Burlington, Vermont in the Summer

Day 6: More of Burlington

Got an extra day? Explore more of Burlington! On your bonus day, you’ll explore more of Lake Champlain and learn more about its ecology and history. There will be time for ice cream, shopping, and great food as well! Total driving distance: 0 miles

Breakfast: The Grey Jay

135 Pearl Street, Burlington, Vermont

This is not your ordinary breakfast joint! The Grey Jay on Pearl Street makes the most delectable baked goods and fantastic Mediterranean-inspired breakfast and lunch items. The menu is an eclectic mix of breakfast and lunch specialties with lots of vegetarian options.

The Grey Jay is open every day from 9 am-2 pm.

Get Out on the Water at the Community Sailing Center

Explore Burlington Bay in a human-powered watercraft. At the Community Sailing Center, you can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards, and even book a private lesson if you need it. Want to try sailing? You can book a private lesson for you and your family aboard a boat from their fleet of sailing vessels.

This is a great way to see Burlington from a whole new perspective, and it’s the perfect way to get out on the water, especially in the summer! Learn more about renting a boat at the Community Sailing Center. 

Lunch: August First

149 S. Champlain Street, Burlington, Vermont

August First, located on the corner of S. Champlain and Main Street, is known for its crazy-delicious baked goods, especially maple biscuits! I have had many a relaxing cup of coffee at August First, but I’ve only recently discovered their lunch menu.

There are lots of vegetarian options, including my current favorite, the ramen noodle salad, which consists of chilled noodles, a jammy egg, and veggies with the yummiest sesame tamari dressing. The space is a renovated garage and the atmosphere is very cozy-industrial. 

August First is open seven days a week from 7:30 am – 3 pm.

Spirit of Ethan Allen

You’ve already done a bit of exploring on Lake Champlain, but hopping aboard a cruise ship for a narrated boat ride is a great way to learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the lake. The Spirit of Ethan Allen provides fun narrated cruises, and you can buy beer and refreshments for relaxing on the deck. Dinner cruises and sunset cruises are offered too. 

In my opinion, this is one of the most relaxing ways to spend your last afternoon on Lake Champlain. You’ll be treated to fantastic views of the Burlington waterfront as well as the Adirondack Mountains in New York and the Green Mountains east of Burlington.

Dinner: A Single Pebble

133 Bank Street, Burlington, Vermont

Tonight’s dinner is upscale authentic Chinese made with the freshest ingredients served family-style. A Single Pebble is a treat, whether you’re in the mood for seafood, beef, or a completely vegetarian meal, a Single Pebble prepares everything from scratch for a delectable meal like you’ve never experienced.

A Single Pebble is currently open from Tuesday through Saturday, starting at 4:30 pm. Reservations are suggested

Vermont Route 7 Road Trip FAQs

We get a lot of questions about traveling through Vermont, so we just wanted to take some time to answer the ones we get most often. If you have any other questions about road-tripping in Vermont, simply leave a comment and we’ll answer ASAP.

Should we drive Route 7 in Vermont from south to north or north to south?

Honestly, for this particular road trip on Vermont Route 7, it doesn’t really matter which direction you choose. If you are flying to the area and renting a car, you may want to base your decision on where you can get the cheapest, or easiest flight. 

If you fly into Albany International Airport (ALB) in New York State, you will be an hour from Bennington in Southern Vermont. We find lots of great flight deals in and out of Albany, which is the closest major airport from home. If you’re a fan of Southwest Airlines, like we are, then Albany Airport is a great choice.  

Burlington International Airport (BTV) also has good flight deals and car rentals too! Want to compare flights and car rental prices? Kayak is a great resource for finding the cheapest flights and car rentals to help you plan and budget for your trip.

When is the best time to travel on Route 7 in Vermont?

Route 7 is a well-maintained US highway, so technically, you can drive it during all four seasons. We recommend taking this Vermont road trip between May and October so you can take full advantage of farm stands, hiking, and swimming (okay, you may not want to swim in October, but you get the idea). 

The speed limit on Route 7 varies from 25 mph in towns and villages to 55 mph on certain stretches between towns, so no matter what time of year you plan to drive it, plan on taking your time!

When should we drive on Route 7 to see Vermont’s fall foliage?

That’s the million-dollar question! Instead of mountains along the Route 7 corridor, you’ll mostly get rolling hills and farmland. Because of the lower elevation, the trees tend to change a bit later than in the mountains. Fall foliage is reliably beautiful during mid-October. 

Will we have access to amenities while driving on Route 7?

Definitely! Route 7 connects a number of small towns, plus the relative metropolises of Rutland, Burlington, and St. Albans. In just about every town, you will find gas and groceries, and many towns also have numerous hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Yes, Route 7 in Vermont is mostly rural, but you’re never very far from civilization. 

What to Pack for Your Vermont Route 7 Road Trip

Wondering what to pack for your Route 7 road trip? I recommend keeping it casual. This part of Vermont includes lots of opportunities for outdoor exploration, and very few opportunities for nightlife unless you count chasing fireflies and relaxing under the stars. 

One exception is Burlington, which is a hip college town with live music happening somewhere every night of the week. One outfit for “going out” should be enough. Here are some more packing must-haves to help you make the most of your trip.

Activewear – Since you’ll be spending plenty of time outdoors, you’ll want to pack comfy clothes that are suitable for hiking. Opt for sturdy non-cotton pants ( like these ) and a breathable, moisture-wicking shirt. Merino wool shirts will keep you cool when it’s hot out and warm when it’s cold out, plus they don’t stink like polyester blends and they dry quickly.

Sturdy shoes – In summer, sandals that can double as water shoes are awesome for the lakeshore and rocky swimming holes. A pair of rugged hikers will be great for everything from walking in the woods to strolling through town.

Swimwear – Do not come to Vermont in the summer without a swimsuit! There are just so many great places to cool off! We use these quick-dry towels when traveling because the heavy cotton ones take too long to dry.

Jackets – Yes, the weather in Vermont is fickle, even in the summer. Between late May and August, you will be fine with a fleece and a rain jacket. For early spring and fall travel, add a down puffy jacket and a wool hat. These down jackets pack down really small and are perfect for travel.

Your Camera – Perhaps your phone doubles as your camera. Awesome! If your phone camera leaves something to be desired, consider bringing a separate camera to capture all the beautiful scenery. If you want a dedicated point-and-shoot camera that packs neatly into a backpack, check out the Canon PowerShot SX740 . Overall, this little camera takes better photos than the best smartphone with a powerful zoom and 4K video. I love traveling with mine!

Where to Next?

After traveling along Vermont’s eastern border and the shoreline of Lake Champlain, you can continue north into the Lake Champlain Islands, or head east into the Green Mountains. A Route 100 road trip would bring you south again, and we have another 5-day road trip itinerary for Route 100 if you want to extend your trip.  

If this is the end of your Vermont vacation, you can easily hop on Interstate 89 south toward Boston, or cross into New York and drive south on Interstate 87 to Albany International Airport. 

Planning a trip to Vermont? Be sure to check out our sister site, Vermont Explored , which covers all the best things to do in our home state!

Follow us on social media for more road trip ideas!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

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17 Wonderful Winter Road Trips Within Driving Distance Of The Capital Region

The January 2020 issue of saratoga living ‘s sister publication,  Capital Region Living , marked the magazine’s 17th birthday. To help celebrate the milestone, CRL put together a list of 17 winter road trips within driving distance of Albany. So, the next time you find yourself in the area for a spell, dust off this post. Thank our friends at  CRL later.

1. Killington, VT

2 Hours 15 Minutes from Albany

Killington, VT, is certainly a no‐brainer for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, and it’s also a hot spot for cold winter lovers of all types. Dogsledding, tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing and fat biking all await in the Central Vermont town.

2. Lake Placid, NY

Forty years ago this February, Lake Placid played host to the triumph of the US men’s ice hockey team over the Soviet Union in the 1980 Winter Olympics. Travel back to that historic day by way of the “Miracle on Ice” exhibit at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum.

4 Hours 10 Minutes from Albany

A stone’s throw from Canada, Jay, VT is home to some of the snowiest winters in the east. Averaging 354 inches of snow per year, Jay Peak is about the closest skiers and snowboarders get to West Coast skiing this side of the Mississippi.

4. Montréal

3 Hours 30 Minutes from Albany

Who said music festivals had to happen only during the summer months? The Old Port of Montréal will host a range of acts at Igloofest, the city’s annual outdoor music festival, which takes place January 16‐February 8.

5. Burlington, VT

3 Hours from Albany

Take a walk down scenic Church Street, the foot‐traffic‐only main street in Burlington, VT, which each winter transforms into a spectacle of holiday lights. Don’t forget to stop at the flagship Ben & Jerry’s store: The ice cream company opened its first in Burlington in 1978!

6. Niagara Falls, ON

4 Hours 45 Minutes from Albany

A winter wonderland awaits where New York meets Canada. See Niagara Falls in all its icy glory from the climate‐controlled gondolas of the Niagara SkyWheel, a Ferris wheel overlooking the falls.

7. New York City

What better way to celebrate the new year than ice skating at Rockefeller Center? If you make the journey to NYC early enough in 2020, you’ll still be skating by the light of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The rink is open all the way through April.

8. Syracuse, NY

Beat the winter blues at Syracuse Winterfest, a massive, 11‐day, city‐wide festival, featuring dance parties, outdoor activities, concerts, competitions and plenty of food and drink, going on February 13‐23.

9. Manchester, VT

1 Hour 20 Minutes from Albany

Experience the historic luxury of The Equinox Resort on a weekend getaway to Manchester, VT. Relax in the Equinox’s award‐winning spa, dine at one of its five eateries and take advantage of those after‐Christmas sales with a shopping spree in picturesque Downtown Manchester.

10. Bretton Woods, NH

4 Hours from Albany

For a more remote, equally luxurious Northeast vacation destination, head to Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH. Hit the slopes at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire’s largest ski area, then return to your hotel room overlooking a snow‐covered Mount Washington, New England’s largest mountain.

11. Saranac Lake, NY

2 Hours 30 Minutes from Albany

Enjoy the outdoors in the Great White North at the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, a ten‐day festival of sports, performances, parades and fireworks that’s been held every year since 1897. The carnival is highlighted by a magnificent ice palace built by volunteers on the shores of Lake Flower.

12. Hudson, NY

45 Minutes from Albany

For a small Upstate New York city, Hudson has quite the arts scene. Explore the many galleries along charming Warren Street, dine in one of the city’s award‐winning restaurants or catch a show at Club Helsinki. It’s all a mere 45 minutes from Albany.

13. Mystic, CT

2 Hours 50 Minutes from Albany

Head to the seashore this winter with a trip to scenic Mystic, CT, home of the Mystic Aquarium, a historic downtown and, of course, Mystic Pizza, the setting of the eponymous 1988 film.

14. Newport, RI

3 Hours 15 Minutes from Albany

Another coastal destination that’s great for a winter trip is Newport, RI, whose 3.5‐mile Cliff Walk offers panoramic views. It’s as beautiful in the colder months as it is in the summer (and it’s less crowded!).

15. Stowe, VT

Luxury awaits at the base of Vermont’s premier ski mountain. TopNotch Resort at Stowe is home to two to‐die‐for restaurants, an impressive spa, the TopNotch Tennis Academy and the Equestrian Center, which offers horse‐drawn sleigh rides throughout the winter.

16. North Adams, MA

1 Hour 10 Minutes from Albany

The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (a.k.a. Mass MoCA), located in North Adams, MA, is home to some of the Northeast’s finest modern art exhibits (it also doubles as a music venue). Be one of the first to experience Gamaliel Rodríguez’s La Traveía / Le Voyage exhibit, opening on January 25.

Boston sports are heating up as the temperature cools. Head to Beantown this January to catch a Celtics or Bruins home game. Oh, and an unforgettable trip to Faneuil Hall is certainly in order!

This story originally published in Capital Region Living ‘s January 2020 issue.

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101 family day trips and staycation ideas around the capital district.

Remember, it's always best to follow each link to get details about your visit directly from your destination, since some places operate seasonally or by reservation, as well as to check each venue's COVID requirements (masks, limits, social distancing).

Looking for a new place to explore that's still close to home? Kids Out And About has tons of staycation ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun! We've collected the coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga.

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and day trips for less than a tank of gas. KidsOutAndAbout has tons of ideas for places to explore, learn, and have fun!

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Explore Gardens & Sculpture Gardens 

Get wild on a hike    , time travel today, make life a beach, splash into some water fun, spend the day at a museum, explore these cities and villages, all aboard planes, trains, and automobiles (and boats), grow some fun at the farm, connect with nature, amuse yourself at these amusement parks, talk to the animals, get active indoors, challenge yourself to outdoor adventure.

Limiting our list to 101 ideas meant some great destinations may have been left off the list - if there is something you’d like to see added, share it with us on Facebook !

Most of these destinations are within an hour from downtown Albany. For those that are a bit farther away:

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Day trips from albany county.

Albany is more than just a city, it’s the hub of the Capital Region and a gateway to the Northeast. While visiting Albany County, consider spending one of your days on the road exploring the sites and attractions beyond the Albany County borders. Discover the charming village of Cooperstown, explore the scenic Hudson Valley in Chatham, soak up lakeside views in Lake George, learn about the fascinating history of the Shakers in Lebanon Valley or tour one of the many welcoming regions in Upstate New York. 

Your home base may be at the heart of it all at a hotel in Albany County, but there are many sites and attractions that are worth the drive.  

Albany County Day Trip Ideas

Visiting Albany County for a day trip? From the City of Albany's rich history, to the scenic Helderberg Hilltowns, there is plenty to discover on a day trip to Albany County. 

Dad's Day Out in and Around Albany County

9 attractions within walking distance of parkalbany's riverfront garage, albany county day trip itinerary: city of albany, albany county day trip itinerary: helderberg hilltowns, worth the drive: cooperstown, ny.

Albany is more than just a city, it’s the hub of the Capital Region and a gateway to the Northeast. More 

Worth The Drive: Lebanon Valley, NY

Worth the drive: schenectady, ny, worth the drive: chatham, ny, worth the drive: hudson, worth the drive: lake george, ny.

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Explore Albany's unique and historical attractions.

Attractions

Spend A Day Away From Albany On One Of These Perfect Day Trips

Explore the gems of upstate New York just a short trip away from the state's capital city, Albany.

New York state's capital city, Albany, has been having a tourism renaissance in the last decade. From museums to the performing arts, this former railroad and banking center is now bustling with activities that are definitely worth visiting the capital.

But just a short drive away, so many picture-perfect day trips will complete a visitor's dream upstate New York vacation. Hit the road with these ideal day trips throughout the greater Albany area!

10 A Tour Of The Hudson River School Artists' Lives

Less than an hour away from Albany, the Hudson River School--an iconic movement of American landscape artists in the 19th century--thrived in the idyllic towns around the Hudson.

Two of these prominent artists, Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, established grand homes that visitors can now tour today.

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill, NY , and Olana, Frederic Edwin Church's home in Hudson, NY both offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the artists and appreciate the landscape of the Hudson River Valley.

9 Mini Route 66 In The Adirondacks

While Route 66 is an iconic cross-country journey, Mini Route 66 in Speculator, NY is a quick one-hour jaunt from Albany.

While the town of Speculator is home to only a few hundred residents, it's also home to a mini-model of the actual Route 66 with buildings to explore and a real road that visitors can drive down.

Spend the day experiencing this abridged version of a classic road trip, taking the best Instagram-worthy fun photos!

Related: Flying Into Upstate New York? Here's Where To Fly Into

8 Hop Over To Western Massachusetts

Looking to state-hop for a change of scenery? Western Massachusetts is only a quick 45 minutes away, and the Berkshires is another mountain paradise filled with quintessentially New England small towns.

There are so many things to do in the Berkshires (with plenty of luxe options ), that visitors may even want to extend their day trip to a weekend trip !

7 Get Blown Away At The Corning Museum Of Glass

Netflix's show Blown Away gave watchers a new appreciation for glassware, and winners from the show were awarded a residency with the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY.

Located a little over three hours away from Albany, this museum features mind-blowing (not just glass-blowing!) exhibitions on this impressive art form.

6 Explore The Herkimer Diamond Mines

Don't be fooled by the name of the mines! Herkimer Diamonds are not actually diamonds at all but in fact quartz crystals! Don't be disappointed though, the mines in Herkimer, NY are a unique place to tour, and visitors can keep any of the quartz they find there—for free!

Nearby, visitors will enjoy a selection of unique gift shops, jewelry stores, and tasty dining options.

5 Visit Fort Ticonderoga, A Turning Point In The American Revolution

A two-hour drive away from Albany, Fort Ticonderoga is the famed American Revolutionary War site that changed the tide in America's history. Visitors today can watch reenactments, take history and boat tours around the site, and try to escape the "Heroic Corn Maze."

Related: Fort Ticonderoga: What To Do At One Of Upstate New York's Most Famed Historical Landmarks

4 Cave Tours At Howe Caverns

Only an hour outside of Albany, one of New York's largest natural attractions is a fantastic day trip for the entire family. Howe Caverns offers various tours and activities to entertain visitors throughout their stay, including rock and mineral collection and mining at sluice troughs.

3 Kaaterskill Falls, A Perfectly Instagrammable Destination

Another Hudson River Valley gem, Kaaterskill Falls is a beautiful almost-300 foot waterfall (the highest cascading waterfall in the state!) located an hour and 15 minutes away from Albany by car.

Visitors can hike, bike, or run along the Hudson River Valley (on a nicely paved trail) to take in this natural wonder. For centuries, this two-tiered cascading waterfall has fascinated artists, writers, and naturalists, and today it's a popular, stunning photo spot.

2 Wine Tasting And Art In New Paltz

A little over an hour south of Albany, this historic town is home to the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art , SUNY New Paltz's famous art gallery that features an impressive schedule of rotating exhibits.

Spend the morning exploring everything from textiles to paintings, then spend the afternoon wine tasting at the local in-town wineries while enjoying the beautiful bucolic environment of New Paltz.

1 Niagara Falls, A Natural Wonder Of The World

The oldest state park in the country, Niagara Falls has been open to visitors every day of the year for over a century. While a bigger trek from Albany—it'll take visitors about 4 hours to get there from the city—it is well worth it to spend a few hours exploring this awe-inspiring natural attraction.

The park has impressive trails around the falls that one can hike to get different perspectives of the waterway ; visitors can also participate in other activities offered in and around the park like the Maid of the Mist Boat tour or the Niagara Aquarium.

The Best New England Fall Foliage Road Trip Itineraries

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New England is a charming region in the northeastern United States, beloved for its quaint villages, history, and breathtaking autumn foliage. It is the most beautiful area in the world for a fall foliage road trip. It took me a while to finally make it to New England during fall, but once I did, the colors completely blew me away!

There’s a lot to see in New England, but of course, the major highlight is the autumn leaves that paint the landscape in many hues. The colors only pop for a few weeks every year based on several factors. Make sure to look at the fall foliage reports in each state to get an idea of when the colors will be at peak. Usually, the end of September through Mid October will see the best colors, but each state and region are different. Higher altitudes change first, and too much rain or wind will affect how and when the leaves change.

In this post, I’m sharing some of the best fall things to do in each New England State and three epic itineraries for the best New England fall foliage road trips that can easily be altered to accommodate any trip length. Along the way, expect to see a breathtaking array of colors as the leaves change, ranging from deep reds and oranges to bright yellows and golds. You’ll stop at small towns and charming villages, sample local cuisine, and enjoy cultural activities.

A New England fall road trip is a must-do for any nature lover or adventure seeker. It is one road trip I look forward to every year. While there are many areas in the United States for fall foliage, New England is the epicenter of all things fall, from pumpkin patches and foliage-lined streets to fall festivals and freshly baked goodies.

There are so many fun fall things and unique neighborhoods to experience on every New England road trip, so buckle up and get ready for a road trip of a lifetime!

Table of Contents: Jump to

The New England States

The charming states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut make up the New England region. Each New England state has its own unique flavor, making a fall foliage road trip through this beautiful part of the US an unforgettable experience.

Here’s an overview of each New England state and what you’ll find there in autumn. 

Bonus State; New York: While New York isn’t technically in New England, it’s super close and offers an equally dreamy autumn road trip experience. Head to Upstate New York , the Finger Lakes region, or the stunning Adirondack mountains for some epic New York fall foliage road trips. The road trip itinerary section includes parts of New York on Route 2’s road trip.

Maine 

Besides visiting in summer to enjoy the beaches, autumn is the best time to visit Maine. This coastal state is a quintessential New England leaf-peeping destination, with a plethora of must-see highlights in the fall. 

You absolutely can’t miss a scenic drive through Acadia National Park. This serene park offers colorful hiking trails along Park Loop Road, and magnificent vistas from Cadillac Mountain. 

Or swing through the small town of Kennebunkport, with postcard-worthy historic homes and stunning fall foliage lining Kennebunk River.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers some of the best New England fall foliage road trips in the entire country! This New England state has many gorgeous natural features and quaint towns with the best fall atmospheres.

The Kancamagus Highway is perhaps the most popular scenic drive on a New England fall road trip. Drive this switchback-filled route for awe-inspiring views of the White Mountains bursting with vivid foliage colors. 

While adventuring along the Kancamagus, you can’t miss exploring summit trails or the magical Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. 

Looking for more of a charming cultural experience with good foliage views? Definitely check out the town of North Conway in the White Mountains. 

There are a unique variety of local shops, eateries, and historical landmarks to explore here, with colorful mountains in the backdrop. Hitch a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad to get up close and personal with the deep red, yellow, and orange forests.

Vermont is a state that closely borders New Hampshire to the left with a huge reputation for showcasing the best New England fall villages. Vermont is an idyllic spot for a fall foliage road trip with verdant pastures, beautiful mountain ranges, and a quintessential small-town feel.

One highlight of Vermont in autumn is the charming town of Stowe at the base of Mount Mansfield. Visit to enjoy scenic drives, hikes, or bike rides in the surrounding area, taking in the stunning views of the colorful foliage along the way. 

Hiking is a fantastic activity to do when visiting Vermont to leaf-peep. The Green Mountains offer an awesome range of hikes, from easy family-friendly strolls to challenging climbs. 

Hike the Camel’s Hump Trail or Mount Mansfield Trail for breathtaking panoramic views. The Stowe Pinnacle Trail is another great option for beginners, with rewarding views of the valleys below.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a New England state esteemed for its U.S. historical landmarks, world-class universities, cultural cities, and picturesque seaside towns. 

There are many memorable things to see here on a fall foliage road trip, including brilliant foliage and unique towns. 

North Adams in the scenic Berkshire Mountains is a perfect example. Admire the stunning foliage while exploring its museums and shops. 

The Berkshires themselves is an enchanting region to visit in autumn. Don’t miss scenic Berkshire drives and trail hikes around its network of beautiful agricultural towns. 

In the town of Stockbridge is the Norman Rockwell Museum, an iconic token of New England’s visual beauty.

Connecticut 

Connecticut is another excellent state to visit on an unforgettable fall foliage road trip, with state parks that look stunning in autumn with colors that last longer than the other New England States with fewer crowds.

One of the top Connecticut highlights in autumn is the Connecticut River Valley, which offers some of the most beautiful leaf-peeping views in the state. 

From early October to early November, you can take a scenic drive along the Connecticut River, explore the small towns as you go, and hike to the abandoned fire towers for great views.

Another must-visit in the fall is Kent Falls State Park, with its series of waterfalls framed by colorful leaves. Embark on one of the many hiking trails, bundle up to enjoy a picnic lunch, and soak in the area’s natural beauty.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest US state, but it is certainly a mighty fall foliage destination! If you’re visiting in autumn, definitely add the gorgeous seaside town of Newport to your list. 

Its historic mansions, coastal drives, and cliff-walk strolls will wow you with framed foliage scenes around every corner.

You can also explore Block Island or take advantage of the hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities at the colorful Norman Bird Sanctuary.

The Best New England Fall Foliage Road Trip Itineraries: 

No matter how much time you have, you can soak up the magic of fall with these 3-10 day fall road trip itineraries. They are easily customizable and can be done with any amount of time. There is much to see and do within these fall road trip itineraries, but make sure to plan some relaxing time into your day to take in all the scenery and the small towns with gigantic personalities.

These three itineraries are all loop routes. Each originates in different areas of New England from different airports, giving you the most variety when choosing the best New England road trip route itinerary.

Route 1: Round Trip from Boston, MA  | 3-10 days | New Hampshire + Maine

3 Days Overnight Stops: Plymouth (NH), Lincoln (NH), Conway (NH)

5 Days or More Optional Add-Ons:

• Alton, Wolfeboro, Meredith (NH, Lake Winnipesaukee Loop)
• Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park (ME), Portland (ME), Portsmouth (NH), Salem (MA)

Route Details:

• Closest International Airport: Boston Logan International (BOS) Airport (110 miles to first overnight stop)
• Driving time: 6-11 hours
• Must See Stops: Concord, Plymouth, Welch-Dickey Loop Trail, Squam Lake and covered bridge, Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge, Clark’s Covered Bridge, North Conway, Diana’s Baths, Alton Bay, Wolfeboro Art Walk, Wright Museum of World War II, Black’s Paper Shop, the Old Country Store, Castle in the Clouds, Mill Falls Marketplace, Weirs Beach, Gunstock Resort, Old Port, Cape Elizabeth, Portland Head Light, Two Lights Lighthouse, Tate House Museum, Portland Observatory, USS Albacore, U.S. Navy submarine (Portsmouth), Market Square,

The first half of this gorgeous fall road trip in New Hampshire is all about the White Mountains, scenic highways, and historic towns, perfect for 3-day trip. It’s hands-down one of the best New England fall foliage road trips for its sheer visual beauty. 

For historic charm and a coastal New England fall vibe, add on some coastal towns, such as Bar Harbor (ME), Portland (ME) and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. If you love Halloween, stop in Salem on the way back to Boston. October is a great time to visit the town known for the witch trials of 1692. 

For an even longer trip, including the beloved Lake Winnipesaukee with overnight stops in Alton, Meredith or Wolfeboro.

First Night in Plymouth

Head to Concord, New Hampshire’s capital city, and travel along forest-lined Route 93 up to the colonial college town of Plymouth, NH. You can spend the night here. 

As one of the best places in NH for foliage, you’ll want time to explore its quaint downtown, stroll around colorful Squam Lake, or summit the Welch-Dickey Loop for a breathtaking perspective.  

Optional Add-On: Lake Winnipesaukee loop

From here take the optional Lake Winnipesaukee loop through Meredith, Wolfeboro and Alton. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive around the lake but spending a few nights along New Hampshire’s largest lake is ideal.

As you drive around the lake, visit Alton, NH, a historic bay town with forest-framed bay views. 

Then make your way to Wolfeboro, a year-round lakefront town with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Explore the colorful rail trail and outdoor Wolfeboro Art Walk. Then continue on to the historic Moultonborough to wander the 1700s Old Country Store and buy fun penny candy. 

Next up is Meredith, replete with upscale lake living and fun cultural activities. Shop and dine overlooking the water at Mill Falls Marketplace and go for a crisp Weirs Beach walk. Meredith is a great area to spend a night or two. 

Wrapping up the loop, you’ll continue on to Gilford, home of Gunstock Resort. This spot is excellent for a moderate hike with rewarding leaf-peeping vistas. Finally, finish back where you started in Alton and continue north to Lincoln, New Hampshire, for more scenic leaf-peeping views.

2nd night in Lincoln, NH

After enjoying Lake Winnipesaukee, head to Lincoln, NH, a beautiful town in the White Mountains. While here, don’t miss a visit to Franconia Notch State Park right off the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. A hike up to Artists Bluff is a great way to start the day for scenic views, or walk through Flume Gorge, an area with hiking trails and a path through a natural gorge and waterfalls with a red-covered bridge and many scenic views.

Third Night in Conway, NH

For your final night on a shorter road trip, head to North Conway along the famous scenic route “the Kanc.” 

The Kancamagus route weaves through the White Mountains National Forest, revealing magnificent fall foliage views, peaceful streams, and hiking trails along the way.

While in Conway, take a scenic drive along Crawford Notch Road, an autumn train ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad , or wander to Diana’s Baths to see waterfalls. 

For a three-day road trip, Conway will be your final stop. It is a 2.5-hour drive back to Boston’s Logan Airport.

Optional Add-On: The Coast

For a 5 to 10-day New England fall road trip, consider heading back to Boston along the coast with additional stops at some fantastic charming towns, including Portland, ME, Bar Harbor, ME, Portsmouth, NH, and Salem, MA. This will add a few hours to your journey, but with an overnight stop or two, you will be able to wander through these quaint towns, explore their downtown shops, restaurants, and museums, learn about the local history, and try delicious cuisine. You can even take a trip to the east coast’s most beautiful National park in Bal Harbor, Maine, Acadia National Park.

Portland, ME

Portland is a popular stop along the coast of Maine known for its working waterfront lined with fishing wharves, lighthouses, and Victorian Architecture. It downtown shows off local cultural and culinary treats with cobblestone streets and authentic New England Charm. Portland offers many outdoor opportunities, from biking along its scenic shores or kayaking through its many islands. Enjoy downtown shopping, maritime history, and historical landmarks in this vibrant New England Town.

Bar Harbor, ME

With a few more days, head to Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor for its stunning fall beauty and iconic coastal views. Just under 3 hours from Portland, it’s worth an extra night to see the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak in the eastern United States’. Look out for wildlife, including moose, bears and whales.

Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth is New Hampshire’s oldest settlement, only an hour north of Boston it’s a great road trip stop on your way back to where your road trip started. It is known for its historic small-town charm, lush history, and 17th-century architecture. It is a fantastic walkable town with a downtown Market Square filled with excellent restaurants, boutique shops, pleasant water views, and a fun atmosphere.

During fall opt for a river cruise down the Piscataqua River to enjoy the foliage views from the water or take a stroll in Prescott Park’s tree-lined brick pathways.

This is a small historic town that really pays homage to the heinous witchcraft trials of 1692. There are some historic homes and landmarks to see, and they go all out for Halloween. You can explore the town in a few hours with a self-guided walking tour, explore a museum and go window shopping through the main town square.

Route 2: Round Trip from Albany, NY | 3-10 days | Vermont and New York

3 Days Overnight Stops: North Adams (MA), Wilmington (VT), Albany (NY), or spend 3 nights in the nearby Catskills soaking in the best of mother nature.

5 or More Days Optional Add-ons:

• Plymouth (VT), Stowe (VT), Burlington (VT)
• Adirondacks Mountains (NY)
• Lake George (NY), Saratoga Springs (NY)
• Catskills (NY)
• Closest International Airport: Albany International (ALB / KALB) Airport (60 miles from the first overnight stop)  
• Driving time: 4-11 hours
• Must See Stops: Norman Rockwell Museum , Jacob Ladder’s Scenic Drive, Downtown Wilmington, Vermont Country Store, Bartonsville Covered Bridge, Granville, Mohawk Scenic Route, President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Gifford Woods State Park, Killington Ski Area, Sleepy Hollow Farm in Woodstock, Mount Mansfield, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, Smuggler’s Notch, Lake Placid, Keene Valley, Prospect Veterans Memorial Highways, New York State Capitol Building, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Saratoga Race Track, Kaaterskill Falls, Giant Ledge

Ready for the quintessential autumn in New England experience of a lifetime? Embark on this multi-day road trip through iconic fall in the beautiful Berkshires up through Vermont’s Scenic Route 100 before looping back south through lively Lake George with optional add-ons in New York’s famous Adirondacks Mountains or the Catskills, known for its deep valleys, ski resorts, and vast hiking trails.

First night in the Berkshires, MA (North Adams)

From Albany, take I-90 towards Lee in the southern Berkshires to journey out on the Jacob’s Ladder Road (Route 20), one of the best scenic routes in Massachusetts, before heading north along Route 112 and picking up the famous Mohawk Trail, known for its Native American origins, historic towns, and rolling hills.

Spend some time hiking and enjoying the historic towns and scenic drives along the way.

Head west along Route 2 (Mohawk Trail) into North Adams for your first night.

From Adams, you will head north to Wilmington, VT, for your last night on a 3-day road trip before returning to Albany the next day.

Second Night in Wilmington, VT

Wilmington is your stereotypical New England small town that makes a great stop on a fall foliage road trip. Its main street is saturated with specialty shops, boutiques, and art galleries with scenic mountain views nearby. After exploring Wilmington’s historic downtown and admiring the roads lined with fields and cute gazebos, head north toward Stowe, VT. If you only have three days, Wilmington is a good point to head back to Albany, NY.

On your way back to Albany along Route 9, you will pass through Bennington, one of Vermont’s most historically charming towns. Spend some time walking downtown, enjoying the tree-lined streets, and visiting a museum or two for insight into Vermont’s history.

Optional Add on for 5+ days

After your second night in Wilmington, take the state roads or I-91 north. You will be heading a little more northwest towards Plymouth and Killington before heading up to Stowe along Vermont’s scenic Route 100.

While headed north, add the Vermont Country Store in Bellow Falls, VT, as a must-see along the way. It makes a great pit stop for snacks and goodies to devour along your road trip. It is also only 4 mins from the Bartonsville Covered Bridge, another New England road trip highlight.

Stowe is a fantastic area to stay for a few nights enjoying the town’s iconic landmarks and fall foliage. If you are running out of daylight, stay the night in Plymouth, another charming New England town rich in American history.

In Plymouth, tour the historic Calvin Coolidge Homestead and quaint downtown. The Coolidge Forest is a fantastic area for leaf peeping and a picnic lunch.

More north, you’ll pass Granville’s colorful, dense forests before arriving in Killington, a beloved region for nature and recreation lovers known for its fall foliage.

Here you can mountain bike in Killington’s Bike Park, enjoy tree-lined hiking trails or golf at Killington Golf Course. Another thing that might entice you on your way to Stowe is, a stop at the famous Ben & Jerry’s factory. Their campus in Waterbury is the birthplace of this famed ice cream. Enjoy samples, tours, a gift shop and the clever Flavor Graveyard.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is another nature lover’s paradise with all the classic hallmarks of a magical Vermont town. Savor slow living, vibrant back roads beaming with colorful foliage and charming farms, covered bridges, and fresh farm-to-table restaurants. 

From Stowe, you won’t be very far from the Adirondacks, another amazing fall foliage destination .

Optional Add-on: Adirondacks

A road trip through the northern Adirondacks could add another 3 or more days to your road trip. You could take a quick day trip through the Keene Valley, but I recommend spending at least a few days exploring one of New York’s most sought-after destinations, especially during peak fall.

If you don’t have 10+ days and must fly out of Albany, I’d skip the northern Adirondacks, so you are not so rushed. There are some great spots to explore along your way south through Lake George, which is also part of the Adirondacks.

The Adirondack Park encompasses over 6 million acres of wooded land in northern New York. The Adirondacks are a nature lover’s paradise where hiking and biking trails, lakes, rivers, valleys, and many mountains offering fantastic fall foliage views are found. Plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities exist, from fishing and water sports to hiking and biking trails through gorges and along waterfalls. It is the largest park in the continental US and is a top choice for exploring the northeast in the fall. Although not a part of the New England region, the leaf peeping in the Adirondacks is out of this world. The small towns with quaint downtown streets and local boutiques with a cozy rustic feel are some of my favorites to enjoy. If you have some extra time, I highly recommend a few nights enjoying the area around Lake Placid and take a few scenic hikes for the best foliage views. Indian Head (11 miles return) is my ultimate favorite (requires an advanced permit) day hike, with Roaring Brook Falls a close second.

From Stowe, head toward Burlington, Vermont.

This crunchy, cultural town represents the best of Vermont’s undeniably charming personality. 

Browse the local shops and eateries of the beloved Church Street Marketplace. 

And don’t miss a breezy picnic, bike, or stroll along the Burlington Bike Path. This long pedestrian path trails the shores of pristine Lake Champlain, a breathtaking spot framed by vivid autumn colors.

Here you can take a quick car ferry across Lake Champlain to port Kent in NY if you have time to explore the northern Adirondacks, which includes the world-famous Lake Placid and the cozy small town Saranac Lake.

Your next overnight will be in Lake George, about 2 hours south of Burlington.

Ticonderoga is a lovely hamlet to stop through along the way to Lake George. Its Bicentennial Park is always popping with fall trees surrounding the waterfall, Falls of the La Chute. There is not too much going on in town, but it makes a great stop to stretch your legs and enjoy some crisp autumn air before arriving in Lake George and returning to Albany.

Lake George, NY

Apart of the southern Adirondacks, Lake George is a popular tourist area known for its old-growth forests, glistening lakes, and many outdoor activities perfect for the entire family. Many other smaller lakes, islands, and villages in the area light up with colors every fall. The Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway is a must-see, offering a scenic drive to the summit of Prospect Mountain with hiking trails, campsites, and many overlook with sprawling views of the lakes, forests, and towns below.

From Lake George, you are about one from Albany, where you started this road trip. You will go through Saratoga Springs, which makes a great road trip stop, especially if you are into horseracing.

Saratoga Springs, NY

Best known for horse racing and the world-famous Saratoga Springs Race Course, Saratoga Springs is also known for mineral hot springs and a charming downtown with plenty of unique boutiques and restaurants. Enjoy leaf-peeping among the many parks and area preserves, including Saratoga Springs State Park and the 150 acres of North Woods near Skidmore College.

New York’s capital city, Albany, is filled with cultural landmarks, such as the Egg, a performing arts venue; Schuyler Mansion, the New York State Capitol Building; and the Historic Cherry Hill home. Albany is home to a hearty art scene with over two dozen commissioned murals in the downtown area. Nearby is Lark Street a must-see when visiting Albany for its historic buildings, funky art galleries and museums, and the overwhelming variety of delicious world cuisine. The best leaf peeping is found in downtown Washington Park and iconic John Boyd Thacher State Park, 30 mins outside of downtown.

Albany has a great base for leaf peeping and an International airport offering many domestic flight options.

Optional Add-on Catskills :

Another stunning wooded area perfect for leaf peeping is the Catskill Mountains between New York City and Albany in southern New York. Although considered mountains, the Catskills is a dissected plateau area encompassing around 700,000 acres. Its valleys, gorges, flowing rivers, and streams offer hiking, biking, skiing, and rock climbing opportunities for the many nature lovers who escape to this serene area just a short drive from the bustling city. Leaf peeping here is world-class, and the many historic towns known for their new-world charm offer the perfect fall oasis.

Make sure to hike to some iconic areas, including Red Hill, a fire lookout that stands 60 ft tall; the stunning two-tiered waterfall of Kaaterskill Falls and Giant Ledge, often considered the Catskill’s best views.

Route 3: Round Trip from Hartford, CT | 3-10 days | Connecticut and Rhode Island

3 Days Overnight Stops: For a three-day fall road trip, base yourself in western Connecticut, Kent, Norfolk, or even Hartford. These areas are an hour’s drive or less from many state parks, making a great day trip for hiking and enjoying the foliage from one of the many fire towers or historic castles.

If coastal vibes are more your thing, head east through Providence to Newport and New London along the coast to enjoy the gilded age mansions, museums, galleries, unique boutique shopping, and quaint neighborhoods nestled between tree-lined streets. It is about a 4-hour round trip drive from Hartford to Newport and New London.

5 or More Days: Kent (CT), Stockbridge (MA), Providence (RI), Newport (RI), New London (CT), Hartford (CT)

• Closest International Airport: Bradley International Airport (BDL) near Hartford, CT.
• Driving time: 2-7 hours
• Must See Stops: The Chauncey Peak, Bulls Bridge, Norman Rockwell Museum, Haystack Mountain Tower, Mount Tom State Park Tower, Talcott Mountain State Park, Macedonia Brook State Park, West Cornwall Covered Bridge, Dennis Hill State ParkTrail, Peoples State Forest, St Mary Roman Catholic Church (where Jackie and JFK were married), Cliff Walk, The Breakers Mansion, Watch Hill Lighthouse, Mystic Seaport Museum, Mark Twain House & Museum.

This fall foliage road trip loop starts in Hartford, CT and continues through some of New England’s most celebrated small towns with plenty of opportunities for leaf peeping, scenic drives, cultural immersion, and delicious cuisine.

First Night in Kent, CT

On your first day, head towards west Connecticut, the best area in the state for changing colors with plenty of rolling hills, state parks, and perfect foliage views.

Head towards New Milford and then north along Route 7 to Kent for your first night. Check out Chauncey Peak, Mount Tom Tower Trail, Kent Falls State Park or Lovers Leap State Park along the way.

The Bulls covered bridge, and West Cornwall Covered Bridge (north of Kent) are two fun stops serving up some New England charm.

It is only an hour to your next overnight stop, so enjoy the surrounding areas and more state parks on day 2 before driving along US 7 up towards Canaan. Route 7 is one of Connecticut’s most scenic routes taking you through rolling hills and picturesque farms and boutique towns surrounded in foliage.

Second night in Stockbridge, MA

Visit Haystack Mountain Tower and Macedonia Brook State Park to soak in those autumn colors and scenic views. The People’s State Forest is a little out of the way but constantly voted a top place to see foliage in Connecticut. The Jessie Gerard Trail is one of the most popular trails for panoramic foliage views from Chaugham Lookout.

Next up on this New England fall road trip itinerary is the famous Berkshires, another iconic leaf-peeping destination in New England. The cozy small town of Stockbridge, Massachusetts, makes a great base to explore the many museums, galleries, and historical homes nearby and is only a 2-hour drive to your next stop in Providence, RI.

Arriving in Stockbridge, you’ll be in the heart of the Berkshires. This scenic region is replete with pastoral recreation and cultural sophistication. 

During your Stockbridge stay, stroll through the colorful Berkshire Botanical Garden. If the weather’s crummy, the Norman Rockwell Museum is a can’t-miss. And if you’re taking this road trip in October, definitely attend the autumnal Stockbridge Harvest Festiva l .

Third night in Providence, RI, or continue to Newport, RI

Once in Providence, enjoy this charming, historical city in the Connecticut River Valley, which transforms with vibrant autumn foliage in late September through early October.

Explore Waterplace Park and enjoy a cozy picnic, or experience the dynamic Italian personality of Federal Hill.

Heading towards the coast, enjoy the beautiful seaside town of Newport, RI. Enjoy a scenic drive down Ocean Drive, stroll the Cliff Walk to see autumn foliage lining the ocean, or enjoy a sunset cruise. 

Newport hosts the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Gilded age mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and many charming streets perfect for strolling on a fall day.

Taking this road trip in September? Immerse in local culture in an opulent setting at the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival .

Continue your coastal journey from Newport back to Hartford through the small seaside towns of Westerly, Mystic and New London to finish your New England fall foliage road trip.

This epic drive is chock-full of scenic ocean-side strolls, opulent mansions, cobblestoned neighborhoods, and harbor-front magic. 

Westerly, RI

A predominate beach community along Rhode Island’s coast, Westerly is known for its exciting downtown scene with trendy shops, delicious restaurants, and beautiful seaside homes. Enjoy fall foliage in Wilcox park or hike through the Napatree Point Conservation Area. Enjoy miles of beaches and visit the iconic Watch Hill Lighthouse.

This small village is a fantastic road trip stop along Rhode Island’s coast. Once known as a key shipbuilding destination, its rich Maritime history comes together at the popular Mystic Seaport Museum and Village, the largest maritime museum in the United States. Its downtown is a joy to explore with popular eateries such as Ford’s Lobster and French Bakery, Sift. Enjoy quintessential New England villages nearby, including Stonington and Old Mystic for their charming old-world streets, local wines, casual boutiques, and delicious restaurants. If you are a fan of the movie Mystic Pizza, take a tour of town to spot some famous shooting locations.

New London, CT

Another Rhode Island coastal town, New London, was once a mecca for the whaling and sealing industry. It is saturated with maritime history and has a delicious Waterfront Historic District named to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s. With more of a city vibe, it shows off a unique New England perspective with historic buildings, cultural centers, and a bustling beach boardwalk.

Hartford, CT

Your starting and ending point on this New England Road Trip, Hartford, is Connecticut’s capital city and worth exploring even for half a day. Its one of the oldest cities in the United States and has a beautiful Victorian Gothic capital building, thriving arts and cultural centers with the museum and historic homes, including the Mark Twain House, and beautiful parks and gardens perfect for enjoying the best of fall.

As some of the best New England fall foliage road trips, these 3-10 day options will lead you from the most iconic fall destinations through rolling hills, covered bridges, charming farm stays, and cozy neighborhoods flanked with unique boutiques, tree-lined streets, and delicious eateries to vibrant coastal cities filled with opulent charm and historic mansions.

Whether you wind up in upstate New York or cruising through the Berkshires or beautiful Vermont on your New England fall road trip, be prepared for iconic fall personalities and even bigger fall views that will absolutely blow you away.

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Albany, NY

Last Updated By VI on April 23, 2024 in New York Day Trips

Rochester’s National Museum of Play

Saratoga springs.

• Complete List & Map

Take a walking tour with historical experts, explore an old factory now used as a multi-art studio, check out the theater. Hudson is only about a 45-minute drive from Albany.

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One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY, 14607, Phone: 585-263-2700

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1704 Lake Ozonia Rd, St. Regis Falls, NY 12980

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Columbia County Tourism

401 State Street, Hudson, NY 12534, Phone: 518-828-3375

Cooperstown

20 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, Phone: 607-322-4046

Corning Museum of Glass

One Museum Way - Corning, NY 14830, Phone: 800-732-6845 or 607-937-5371 More Day Trips from Rochester, NY

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102 Fort TI Road, Ticonderoga, NY 12883, Phone: 518-585-2821

Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks

2144 Route 9, Ausable Chasm, NY 12911, Phone: 518-834-7454

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Howe Caverns

255 Discovery Drive Howes Cave, NY 12092, Phone: 518-296-8900

Johnstown is a place with a lot of history and a ton of great attractions, unique dining, and fantastic people who love to have fun. Wildlife Sports and Education Museum is an exciting place to learn and explore fishing, hunting, trapping, and other outdoor sports activities and the history behind them. Relax with a game of golf at Fox Run. For animal lovers, the Adirondack Animal Land is open for people to come and see over five hundred animals and to hang out with some of them up close in the biggest petting zoo in the area. If you need a place to stay, the Olde Knox Mansion offers respite with bed and breakfast services while you immerse yourself in grandiose Victorian-style architecture. Johnstown is about one hour away from Albany.

Kaaterskill Falls

These gorgeous falls are located in the Hudson Valley near Hunter, NY. The waterfall is a part of the lower trailhead that stretches along the valley where many people from all over come to walk, hike, run, and bike. The path is paved and provides a good amount of shade for the hotter months. The waterfall is just over 260 ft. tall and cascades down over two sections of rock. The water that flows down is Spruce Creek, which hugs the entire trail and travels with you downhill into the valley. On the same trail, just a bit further is Bastion Falls, which is a multi-level waterfall about 120 ft. tall. The Kaaterskill Falls is about an hour and 15-minute drive from Albany.

Lake George

1340 State Route 9 Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 800-95-VISIT

Lake Placid

Activities are alive and well in every month of the year with lake and exploration activities in the summer and skiing, ice fishing, and even winter Olympic sports venues open to the public in the colder months. Among the active attractions, there are plenty of historical sites, museums, and learning centers both indoors and outdoors that are great for the whole family. This beautiful lake is about 2 ½ hours away from Albany and offers many great accommodation options too.

Manchester, VT

Manchester has historic mansions, 16th-century bed and breakfast homes, great affordable hotels, and some fancier lodging for the ultimate relaxing getaway. The mountains surrounding Manchester provide many outdoor activities for the nature enthusiast. This beautiful town is located only 1 ½ hour from Albany. More day trips in Vermont

Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology

500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse , NY 13202, Phone: 315-425-9068

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

535 Stone Bridge Road, Pottersville, NY, 12860, Phone: 58-494-2283

More ideas: Trips from NYC Without a Car

Niagara Falls

10 Rainbow Boulevard, Niagara Falls , NY, 14303, Phone: 877-FALLSUS

Shawangunk Mountains

Adventure seekers love the gunks for their incredible climbing and rappelling opportunities. Visitors that want a leisurely experience in the Shawangunk Mountains and drive the scenic byway.

More Day Trips from Long Island

Woodlawn Beach State Park

S-3580 Lakeshore Road, Blasdell NY, 14219, Phone: 716-826-1930

• 2. Lenox, MA
• 3. Rochester’s National Museum of Play
• 4. Saratoga Springs
• 5. Adirondack Park Region
• 6. Catskills Scenic Trail
• 7. Columbia County Tourism
• 8. Cooperstown
• 9. Corning Museum of Glass
• 10. Fort Ticonderoga
• 11. Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks
• 12. Herkimer Diamond Mines
• 13. Howe Caverns
• 14. Johnstown
• 15. Kaaterskill Falls
• 16. Lake George
• 17. Lake Placid
• 18. Manchester, VT
• 19. Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology
• 20. Natural Stone Bridge & Caves
• 21. New Paltz
• 22. Niagara Falls
• 23. Shawangunk Mountains
• 24. West Point
• 25. Woodlawn Beach State Park

Albany , NY is an amazing city located within the beautiful northern part of New York’s countryside. There are many places within a day’s drive that will make you want to get in the car and go on a day trip . Most of the places are close enough to explore two or more per day. Some require most of the day to get through all the awesome events and things to do.

More Features

16 Most Beautiful Resort Spa Baths and Pools

25 Best New York Lakes

25 Best Day Trips in New York State (Including Upstate)

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Perfect New England Fall Road Trip: 10, 5, 3 Day Itinerary 2024

May 31, 2023

Your Influencer Coach & Fellow Content Creator

I'm a travel creator and influencer coach based out of Arizona. This blog is where I share the best itineraries for US & beyond, 63 US National Parks , and influencer tips . Read More About Me ⟶

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What do fiery oranges, sultry yellows, candy-apple reds, quaint cabins, and Gilmore Girl towns all have in common? New England in the fall.

The best way to experience all that and more is with a New England fall road trip itinerary.

So in this post, we’re going to spill all the tea (or pumpkin spice?) on how to pull off the best NE itinerary including information I’ve gathered from three separate New England fall trips I’ve taken over the years.

We’ll cover multiple itineraries: 10 days, 5 days, and 3 days—mainly focused on Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (maps included).

To start, we need to cover some must-know planning details before you embark on your trip!

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Disclaimer: Hey, pumpkin spice lover! This blog contains affiliate links which means I earn a v small percentage of every purchase at no additional cost to you. These affiliate links help support me and my blog, but there is absolutely no pressure to use them!

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Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip

Let’s start with a quick peep at some planning 101’s.

Where is New England📍 — New England is a compilation of US states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

States with the Best Foliage🍁 — New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont—all covered in this post.

When to Go❓ — Late September, Mid-October—First week of October is usually a good ballpark.

Trip Length⏰ — 10 days is ideal—5 to 7 is great too (all covered in this post)

Fly✈️ — Start in Boston or Albany, New York. Check KAYAK for flights starting at $53.

Rental Car🚗 — Also check KAYAK for the best prices in Albany or Boston !

Now, we need to dive into my top “need to knows” for planning your trip.

When is the Best Time to See Fall Colors in New England in 2024?

The best time to see fall colors in New England is beginning to mid-October.

After three years of experience, I have always had the best luck exploring the first week of October.

The peak time to see colors can change depending on how much water the trees receive leading up to the fall season. A dry season can result in less vibrant leaves!

Insider Tip: As you plan, keep a daily eye on the New England peak fall foliage map —which leads us to the next must-know.

Fall Colors Are (Semi) Unpredictable

Planning fall trips to New England can be a tricky business. You see, you’re playing with a season, and seasons can be unpredictable. 

My advice: be as flexible as possible with your New England fall trips.

Daily, you’ll want to keep an eye on the leaf monitors to ensure you’re getting the most accurate reading of colors.

During my trips, I found that sometimes the leaves would change color overnight! 

Insider Tip: Don’t get tied up in going to a single spot for New England fall foliage. Instead, have a general list of places you want to see and go from there. This blog will provide you with plenty of options!

Choosing Your Starting Point

From experience, starting your New England fall road trip itinerary in Albany, NY or Boston, MA (Boston-Logan International) will give you the best flexibility and EPIC itineraries .

My favorite trips have always been a loop, beginning in NY, heading North, and ending in New York’s Adirondacks .

I want to make sure you have options, though.

So first, we’ll cover a 10-day itinerary from Albany, NY. Then as a bonus, we’ll cover starting from Boston (in case you want to do that instead).

Let’s start with the Albany itinerary.

Insider Tip: Leaves tend to change north first and gradually work their way south. When in doubt, hit your northern fall foliage destinations first and move down! 

10-Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary Starting in New York

• Day 1 — Arrive in Albany, NY ; Berkshires
• Day 2 — White Mountains ; Kancamagus Highway
• Day 3 — Franconia Notch State Park
• Day 4 — Crawford Notch State Park
• Day 5 — Acadia National Park
• Day 6 — Acadia National Park
• Day 7 — Dixville Notch State Park
• Day 8 — Stowe, VT ; Smuggler’s Notch
• Day 9 — Lake Placid, NY ; Adirondacks
• Day 10 — Head to Albany, NY

Below is a map that includes all the destinations I listed for the ten-day New England fall road trip and the bonus locations we’ll cover later. 

The map has layers for our alternative itineraries (coverd later), recommended things to do, and places to eat we’ll cover in this post!

Click here for a live version of the map!

You can thank me later ;).

Let’s dive in! Each day has its own list of things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.

Day 1 — Berkshires, MA

Day 1 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Arrive in New York and pick up car
• Afternoon: Drive to Berkshires, ~2hrs
• Evening: Visit Mount Greylock
• Stay: Tourists , The Williams Inn

Now let’s look at the details!

After flying into New York and picking up your car , your New England foliage adventure will begin in the Berkshires, MA. 

I suggest arriving to Albany the evening before day one OR early to late afternoon on day 1 .

This way, you have enough time to drive to the Berkshires and explore the area.

Insider Tip: I love this itinerary so much because starting in Albany allows you to explore the NY Adirondacks too (we discuss this in the post)!

Your drive to the Berkshires from Albany, NY, will be about 1 hour and 20 minutes—it’s a great place to start the fall fun!

Start by heading to Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, which stands at 3,489ft.

Don’t worry; I’m not making you hike the very first day you get here.

Drive up to the top of Mount Greylock and admire the fall views from above!

For food in the area, Korean Garden is the place for tasty Asian dishes!

Another option is Pera Bistro which offers a Mediterranean menu.

Insider Tip: To and from Mount Greylock, you’ll have stores like Walmart available in case you need supplies and snacks!

Where to Stay Near The Berkshires

Adams and Williamstown are where you’ll find amazing mountain resorts tucked away in the woods—perfect for fall.

Here’s a quick list of places you’d like:

Tourists ($$$) — Luxury accommodations that will make you think you’ve just entered the mountain escape of your dreams. Pet friendly, great food, great music, even BETTER vibes.

The Williams Inn ($$$) — Luxury hotel nestled in the mountains that will make you feel like east coast royalty. Great for couples with spacious, clean rooms and super cozy beds—check out the bar and The Log restaurant!

If camping is more your vibe, you’ll be a bit out of the way, but the Savoy Mountain State Forest has options for tent camping, car camping, and log cabins.

You must reserve a spot ahead of time, though before choosing to camp here during your fall road trip in New England.

Insider Tip: Tomorrow will be one of the longer driving days because you’ll want to head to the White Mountains from here, so rest up!

Day 2 — White Mountains, New Hampshire

Day 2 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~5 hours)

• Morning: Drive the Mohawk Trail Scenic Drive
• Afternoon: Drive to White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Late Afternoon: Explore Kancamagus Highway
• Stay: The Stonehurst Manor , Ledge & Lake Chalet , North Conway Grand Hotel

If day one didn’t satisfy your hunger for pumpkin spice and fall vibes, day two will!

Drive the Mohawk Trail

Before leaving Massachusetts, you’ll drive the Mohawk Trail —one of the most scenic New England foliage drives! 

The entire trail stretches about 69 miles.

The drive includes plenty of mountainside vistas that’ll make you fall in love with MA—see what I did there ;).

Insider Tip: Make sure you bring something like a Sony a6400 and 24-70mm f/2.8 lens for some pictures!

Lincoln, NH

After 4 hours, you’ll arrive in Lincoln, NH — a town in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and a well-known hub for visitors.

Once there, grab something to eat at Gypsy Cafe or a coffee at Half Baked & Fully Brewed ( The Moon Cafe & Bakery is a great alternative)!

Alternative: None of that your vibe? Black Mtn Burger Co is another popular place to eat in Lincoln, NH!

Explore the Kancamagus Highway

Today, you’ll explore some popular attractions along the Kancamagus Highway !

Driving the entire Kancamagus Highway takes about an hour.

The Highway goes 37 miles through the White Mountains, starting in Lincoln, NH, and ending in Conway , NH (where you’ll be staying next). 

Unfortunately, there are no gas stations or food options along the Highway, so bring snacks!

All vehicles must pay a $5 entrance fee. You can read more online at KancamagusHighway.com

Here are a couple of my favorite stops:

Hancock Overlook —Located along the Kancamagus Hairpin Turn, Hancock Overlook will seriously leave you in awe with its view of rolling hills and mountains COVERED in vibrant fall foliage.

Sabbaday Falls —One of New Hampshire’s most visited waterfalls!

Click here to grab a Kancamagus audio tour!

Insider Tip: Lincoln, NH is pretty small, so you’ll be better off driving the entire Highway and staying in the Conway, NH, area.

Flume Gorge

A MUST on your drive is to stop at what’s called Flume Gorge.

It’s famous for its red covered bridge which makes a great photo spot.

To enter Flume Gorge , you’ll have to pay $18 (if you grab your pass online).

In-person passes are $21.  Click here for more details !

Fun Fact: covered bridges are known as “kissing bridges” because of their privacy. Make your way through the Highway until you reach Conway.

Where to Stay in Conway, NH

Conway, NH is a fairly big city and you’ll probably find more things to do in the North Conway area.

So when considering accommodations, try to stay there!

Here are some places to consider:

The Stonehurst Manor ($$$) —A glorious mansion in North Conway where you’ll enjoy a romantic-style room complete with a fireplace! With your stay you can enjoy free dinner and breakfast.

Ledge & Lake Chalet ($$) —A cozy chalet nestled in the White Mountains. Enjoy a fall foliage view from your windows before taking a short walk to Echo Lake!

North Conway Grand Hotel ($$) —A great hotel with everything you could ask for! Enjoy the spa, pool, and proximity to outdoor adventures. You can even cozy up in a king room complete with a personal hot tub (if that’s your style).

Insider Tip: Want a cabin getaway? Check out this guide: Cozy Cabin Rentals in North Conway, NH

Day 3 — Franconia Notch State Park (Amazing New England Fall Road Trip Sunrise)

Day 3 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Artist Bluff
• Afternoon : Explore Franconia Notch State Park
• Evening: Check out more of North Conway

On Day 3 of your New England fall road trip itinerary you’ll get to see the popular Franconia Notch State Park and explore one of my favorite New Hampshire towns: Conway—woohoo!

Hiking Artist Bluff Trail

First stop: Artist Bluff Trail for some leaf peeping in New England this morning!

I’ve gone here for sunrise in the past, but a mid-morning hike is a great choice too!

The drive here from Conway will be about 1 hour, but it’s worth it!

The trail is about 1.9 miles round trip with very minimal elevation gain.

Artist Bluff is where you will get the famous New England foliage view of Echo Lake — prepare for your jaw to DROP . I mean, just look at the pictures.

Insider Tip: The trail gets SO windy at the top, so don’t wear anything that can fly away. 

Franconia Notch State Park

After your hike, take some time to explore the rest of the park!

Below are some attractions to consider:

Echo Lake Beach —You already saw the lake from above. Now go explore the fall-covered shoreline! Click here to book parking reservations —parking is limited.

Hike More Trails —Lonesome Lake Trail, Mt. Pemigewasset Trail, and the Appalachian Trail are more fall hikes you can enjoy.

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway —Enjoy fall views from 4,000 feet in the sky! Taking the sky tram up Cannon Mountain will give you views of New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, AND Canada.

This is a pretty scenic area of New Hampshire—I enjoyed just driving around!

Insider Tip: If you don’t have time to see too much, I at least recommend exploring Echo Lake — it’s just too pretty!

North Conway, NH

After your adventures, head to North Conway . 

Since you already explored the Highway yesterday, you can go straight through!

North Conway, New Hampshire like the New England mountain town of your dreams, complete with a little railroad *choo choo* and boutique shops.

It’s a gem nestled in the White Mountains.

Surrounded by endless trees that go orange in the fall, North Conway is the perfect place to snack on pumpkin spice everything while you cozy up in oversized knit scarves and sweaters.

So, duhhhhhh, it has to be a stop on your itinerary.

You can shop, eat, or hang out at Schouler Park —a large grassy area perfect for a picnic.

Make time to check out the Conway Scenic Railroad. 

If you didn’t get coffee earlier,  The Met  is the place to be! Want something sweet to end your day?

I also recommend you check out the  White Mountain Cupcakery ! Chocolate peanut butter cupcakes— SIGN ME UP.

Insider Tip: Popular food spots for when you arrive in Conway include Chef’s Bistro , Vito Marcello’s Italian Bistro , and Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub .

Black Cap Trail (Optional)

If you’re in the mood for another hike, Black Cap Trail is great for fall foliage!

Black Cap Trail is about 610ft in elevation gain and a 2.3 miles round trip .

At the top, you’ll have sweeping mountain views of the Presidential Range .

You’ll stay in Conway again— tomorrow will be your last night here!

Insider Tip: Black Cap is a pretty easy hike, so if you didn’t feel like doing Artist Bluff Earlier, this is a great alternative.

Day 4—Crawford Notch State Park (My Fave New England Fall Foliage Stop)

Day 4 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~1.5 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Crawford Notch State Park
• Afternoon: Visit Mount Willard Trail
• Late Afternoon: Frankenstein Cliffs & other major attractions

Today we’re heading a little bit north and going to Crawford Notch State Park where you’ll be deep in the White Mountains—prime spot for fall colors!

Crawford Notch State Park Hiking

Crawford Notch makes up a large pass that carves straight through the White Mountains.

In New Hampshire’s smallest town, Hart’s Location , Crawford Notch State Park, is the hidden mountain gem you didn’t know you needed in your life.

If everything aligns, you could see peak fall colors here, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fall will paint the trees with the most intense red color, leaving any fall lover speechless!

One of the best parts about Crawford is that you can bring your furry friends there!

On my last trip to NE, I brought my pup along, and he LOVED this portion of the White Mountain National Forest.

And if you’re heading to Crawford Notch, you must do at least one hike !

That’s the best way to see the colors.

Here are a couple of trails to consider:

Mount Willard Trail —Hike for a jaw-dropping valley full of fall colors. The trail is approximately 3.2 miles round trip with 950ft of elevation gain. 

Frankenstein Cliffs —A more challenging trail that will take you to Arethusa Falls. Some parts of the trail will take you close to parts of the park’s railroad (Frankenstein Trestle)! 

Insider Tip: Since the park lines a small section of the White Mountain Highway, it’s pretty easy to get around.

Crawford Notch Scenic Stops

If hiking isn’t your thing, though, there are plenty of other neat fall experiences you can enjoy here:

Enjoy a Scenic Overlook —You can enjoy tons of overlooks and pullouts as you drive around Crawford. Some have views of fall foliage along the Saco Rover (the river that lines the whole park).

Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad —From Crawford Station, you can ride the Conway Scenic Railroad’s Mountaineer route, which is a ridiculously scenic fall ride through the mountains.

Go Back in Time at Willey House —Visit the historical Willey House and look at old park photographs, eat ice cream, or enjoy the surrounding outdoor scenery.

Saco River —Enjoy exploring the Saco River and the gorgeous foliage around it!

Insider Tip: For the night, you’ll stay in   Conway   again before we continue on your New England fall road trip itinerary—Maine is up next and it’ll be a longer drive!

Day 5—Acadia National Park, Maine

Day 5 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~4 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Acadia National Park
• Afternoon: Bar Harbor
• Evening: Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse for sunset
• Stay: The Primrose , The Inn on Mount Desert , Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

Today’s leg of the road trip will take you all the way up to Maine!

Bar Harbor, Maine

Maine has to be one of my favorite states for New England fall foliage because you get a unique mix of autumn colors and ocean views.

While this is a 4-hour drive, you don’t have to be anywhere until sunset hits. 

So if you have some time to spare, grab some food in Conway and some snacks for the road before continuing your leaf-peeping New England adventures!

And the drive up to Acadia will be beautiful!

You’ll be in the mountains LITTERED with fall colors—ooo la laaa!

Bar Harbor is a town on Mount Desert Island, surrounded by gorgeous cliffs and the ocean.

Known for its stunning coastal vibes and boating, Bar Harbor is the perfect place to enjoy a lobster roll after a full day of exploring the park.

If that sounds like your vibe, you must check out  The Travelin Lobster !

You’ll spend two nights in Bar Harbor—the gateway to Acadia National Park.

Insider Tip: While you’re here, I recommend you take a tour around Bar Harbor and Acadia NP !

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

For your first sunset in Acadia National Park, I suggest visiting the classic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse . 

Bass Harbor Head was constructed in 1858 and was considered significant for its aid, making transportation possible in Maine.

You may not see much New England fall foliage here, but it’s the easiest way to enjoy your first evening in Acadia National Park.

Expect parking to be limited and hectic! 

For dinner, I recommend checking out  Cafe This Way !

They have something for everyone, from fresh lobster to a vegan burger!

Cafe This Way also has a great breakfast menu, just saying.

Insider Tip: Bass Harbor Head is a popular photography spot but a must-see for visiting the park—plan to get here almost an hour before sunset.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

The hotels in Bar Harbor are just as dreamy as the views—check them out:

The Primrose ($$) —An elegant hotel where you’ll be just a mile from Acadia! The Victorian-style rooms will leave you in awe, but so will the fluffy pumpkin pancakes!

The Inn on Mount Desert ($$) —A charming guest home is an adorable Bar Harbor neighborhood. You’ll love staying here for its proximity to downtown and cozy beds that practically hug you to sleep.

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel ($$) —A gorgeous hotel property modeled after the elegant 19th century Bar Harbor homes that used to line the city. It’s centrally located to the beach, park, and downtown—everything is within walking distance!

You’ll start tomorrow with a sunrise mission, so get plenty of rest!

Day 6—Acadia National Park

Day 6 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~1 hour)

• Morning: Adventure through Acadia National Park
• Afternoon: Cadillac Mountain, Jesup Path
• Evening: Beehive Trail for sunset

Today will be your time to see as many things to do in Acadia National Park as possible!

Cadillac Mountain

While exploring Acadia National Park in the fall, you may as well see the first sunrise in the USA!

During October, the sun rises over Cadillac Mountain before anywhere else in the country, so it’s a popular park attraction! 

Staying in Bar Harbor will put you about 15 minutes away. 

After sunrise, I suggest driving 15 minutes back into Bar Harbor for some breakfast! Try  Jordan’s Restaurant !

Insider Tip: To ensure you get parking, head there about an hour before sunrise. 

Hiking Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop

In the afternoon, head to  Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop !

It’s an AMAZING trail for seeing New England fall foliage.

The trail is only 1.5 miles round trip and pretty much flat the entire time. 

The loop takes about 30-60 minutes to complete, and you’ll walk along tall trees covered in color the entire time.

If you’re not up for going on Jesup, try one of these awesome things to do:

3-Hour Private Tour —Take a private tour that’ll bring you through the best of what the park has to offer including Park Loop Road, Cadillac Mountain, and Sand Beach!

Foodie Tour —Spend the afternoon exploring Bar Harbor and eat your heart out! This highly rated foodie tour will have you eating lobster rolls, crab cakes and more.

Bike Around —See all of Acadia’s best views by biking around! Rent an e-bike and you’ll get to explore the entire park on your own time all while enjoying a breezy ride through fall colors.

You can also just explore more of Bar Harbor!

Insider Tip: You don’t have to hike the entire Jesup Path if you don’t want to— turn around at any point!

Beehive Trail for Sunset

And now it’s time for sunset—hit that  Beehive Trail ! Make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots !

Beehive Trail is relatively short, sitting at about 1.5 miles round trip , and will take you up a cliffside where you’ll see coastal views and an ocean of fall colors .

You can make a loop out of the hike or turn around at the top of the main cliff.

When I hiked Beehive Trail, rather than making a loop out of it, I went to the top of the cliff and then back down the same way.

It was easier to navigate back to the car since the trail was pretty dark after the sun went down.

So pro tip, bring a headlamp for your sunset excursion! 

Insider Tip: I should also note that this hike includes ladders , which adds to the adventure, hehehehe, but if that scares you, then skip this trail.

Jordan Pond (Alternative)

An alternative would be to head to Jordan Pond and hike a 3.3-mile moderate loop around it.

You can get there by parking at the Jordan Pond parking lot on Park Loop Road.

Parking can get busy, so you’ll still have to get there early.

At Jordan Pond, you’ll get views of The Bubbles , two identical mountain formations that (you guessed it) look like bubbles—they’ll be covered in fall foliage!

Insider Tip: Tomorrow you won’t have to be anywhere until sunset for your leaf peeping New England adventure, BUT this will be a long driving day since you’ll be heading back to New Hampshire.

Day 7—Dixville Notch State Park (Best New England Fall Foliage Sunset Hike)

Day 7 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~4 hours)

• Morning: Relax and eat in Bar Harbor, Maine
• Afternoon: Drive to Dixville Notch State Park
• Evening: Visit Dixville Notch, hike Table Rock
• Stay: Northwoods House , Home with a View , Private Cabin

Dixville Notch is pretty out of the way, but trust me when I say the trail you’ll be exploring is a once-in-a-lifetime hike.

Colebrook, NH

Tonight, you’ll be staying in Colebrook, NH.

There isn’t a whole lot going on in this part of New Hampshire, but Colebrook will have everything you need to fuel up for the next leg of the trip.

Since you don’t have to be anywhere until sunset, you could take your time getting here .

However, you also could drive to Colebrook early (about 15min from Dixville Notch), check into your stay, get something to eat, then make your way towards your sunset hike: Table Rock.

Colebrook is a small town. Some shops and restaurants close early, so this may be a good time to stop at a grocery store for snacks or food you can eat in your hotel room!

Hiking Table Rock New Hampshire

It’s one of the best hikes for New Hampshire fall foliage, and it’s easy to see why—look at the pics! 

The view sits above Lake Gloriette and is a short 1.5-mile trail . 

The only downside to this hike is that it is relatively steep in a very short distance (about 750ft in elevation gain). If you’re weak on the knees, bring trekking poles .

The parking lot for Table Rock is SMALL—plan to be there about 1 to 1.5 hours before sunset. 

Getting to the trailhead early will give you more time to relax at the top! 

When you finish your hike, I suggest going to Colebrook and grabbing some dinner;  House of Pizza  is a popular food option.

Not in the mood for a hike? You can also make a pit stop at Lake Gloriette to have a shoreline view of the colors.

Insider Tip: I imagine Table Rock would look equally great for sunrise, so if that works out better for your New England fall road trip itinerary, you could go that route. 

Where to Stay in Colebrook

For accommodations, Vrbo could be your best bet. Check out these rentals:

Northwoods House ($$) —Stay in this cozy, updated home nestled in the woods! After you explore for the day, you can come back to this home away from home and watch Netflix while you snuggle up on your extra comfy king bed. Pet-friendly.

Home with a View ($$$) —Breakfast and panoramic views of fall colors? Sign me up! Enjoy incredible views of NH from above while you make breakfast, sit on the patio, or look out your window—pictures don’t do it justice.

Private Cabin ($$) —Escape to the woods in this private cabin. A great property to stay for the night while you fall asleep to the sounds of the running stream.

Insider Tip: Tomorrow you’ll be heading into Stowe, Vermont, which will be about a 2 hour drive, so you won’t have to be up super early to continue your leaf peeping New England adventure!

Day 8—Stowe, VT and Smugglers Notch

Day 8 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~3 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Stowe
• Afternoon: Explore Stowe, VT attractions
• Evening: Smugglers Notch
• Stay: The Stowehof Hotel , Timberholm Inn , Green Mountain Inn

I know I’ve talked about pumpkin spice, Gilmore Girls, and fall vibes a lot, but this place feels like it is meant to celebrate fall and ONLY FALL. You’ll see.

Things to do in Stowe, Vermont for Fall

There are plenty of things to do in Stowe, VT in the fall ! So let’s talk about ’em:

Eat —If you’re a veggie lover like me, then give Green Goddess Cafe a try! Not feelin’ in? Head to Piecasso pizza ! They even have vegan cheese you can sub with.

Get Lost in a Maze —The Percy Farm Corn Maze is the place to be if you want some spooooooooky fall vibes—ooooooo, enter if you daaaaAAAre.

Grab a Coffee — Black Cap Coffee and Beer is hipster AF, and we love it, but PK Coffee is where you’ll find a bomb @$$ apple crumble that tastes like an explosion of fall in your mouth—I will NEVER FORGET IT.

Sip on Some Cider —Did I mention you can drive to an APPLE CIDER MILL WHERE YOU CAN HAVE APPLE CIDER? Scott and I love Cold Hollow Cider Mill and would recommend it to anyone as a stop on their New England fall road trip itinerary.

Hop on a Zipline —get up close and personal with the fall foliage by hopping on one of the longest ziplines in the country!

Take a Brewery Tour —Enjoy some hard cider and locally brewed beers on a 5 hour, small group tour!

Click here to book your Stowe day tour!

Insider Tip: Want to see it all? Book an epic day tour that will take you to Smuggler’s Notch, the Cider Mill, Ben & Jerry’s, downtown Stowe, and the Outdoor Center at the Trapp Family Lodge for some epic views of the Green Mountains!

Smugglers’ Notch State Park

Most folks come here to explore Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

Smuggler’s Notch Pass goes through Vermont and has some fantastic New England views!

It’s well-known for its extremely windy road that bobs and weaves through endless fall colors in Vermont’s Green Mountains —don’t skip the drive!

You can spend a chill day in nature enjoying one of the Smuggler’s picnic areas.

To learn more about the park, visit  VTStateParks.com .

Insider Tip: If you want to hike around, check out Hellbrook Trail, Sterling Pond Trail, or Long Trail.

Where to Stay in Stowe, VT

Stowe is the place to book a BOUJIE hotel. This is a bucket list type town, and there are some beautiful resorts!

Check them out:

Timberholm Inn ($$) —The Timberholm Inn is tucked away in the Stowe mountains. This is the perfect place to get your cabin fix in a cozy environment that’ll put you in the middle of prime fall foliage! 

The Stowehof Hotel ($$) —Staying at The Stowehof will make you feel like you’re in a European country. The views here are spectacular, but the interior is extra special. The beautiful fireplaces and library you can enjoy will be the perfect places to rest up after a long day of exploring! Fab location too.

Green Mountain Inn ($$) —Located in Stowe’s Historic Center is this magical inn with an ornate lobby, romantic rooms, and a heated pool you’ll love! Being in the center of town will put you in the middle of all the action.

Insider Tip: If you want a shorter trip, check out my guide on a fall weekend in Vermont !

Day 9—Lake Placid and the Adirondacks

Day 9 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~3 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Adirondacks
• Afternoon: Explore Heart Lake or Indian Head
• Evening: See Lake Placid
• Stay: Crowne Plaza Lake Placid , Mirror Lake Inn , High Peaks Resort

The drive from Stowe, VT to the Lake Placid, NY area will be about 2 hours! This is outside of New England but it’s worth the drive.

Adirondacks

When you arrive, head into the High Peaks Wilderness and hike  Indian Pass and Heart Lake Loop Trail .

Heart Lake Loop is a little over a mile and is a GORGEOUS fall foliage hike! 

You can read about parking for the trailhead on the  Lake Placid website .

Another hike I highly recommend you do is  Indian Head and Rainbow Falls . It’s an easy 11mi hike that will lead to a stunning fjord-type formation surrounded by fall colors! 

After your hike, grab a caffeine fix at  Old Mountain Coffee Company  in Keene, NY. 

They sell chocolate bars there, and I have never had better chocolate—grab one!

Insider Tip: Alternatively, you can go to Mirror Lake and walk the shoreline—another popular destination in the area.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid, New York, is known for its access to the outdoors and, more notably, the winter Olympics—and it’s where you’ll stay for the night!

Mirror Lake sits in the town center.

When you get here, I recommend taking a walk in the downtown area.

It is quaint, cute, and ADORABLE in the fall and has lake views everywhere.

You can shop along Main Street, grab a pastry, or  rent a canoe  and coast along Mirror Lake.

OR, if you want an authentic New England fall foliage adventure, you can get a view of the foliage from above by booking a scenic flight with Payne’s Air Service.

Insider Tip: For food, I suggest capping off your last official day in your fall road trip in New England with a drink and some food at  Lisa G’s !

Woodstock, Vermont (Alternative)

If seeing the Adirondacks doesn’t feel like your vibe, I recommend staying in Stowe, VT, another night and taking a day trip to Woodstock, Vermont .

The drive will be about an hour.

You can enjoy more of Vermont’s fall foliage when you’re there and explore the quaint Woodstock area.

We’ll talk more about Woodstock, VT in our “BONUS” stops section—keep reading!

Insider Tip: Woodstock is also home to the Sleepy Hollow Farm—a must-see for spooky fall vibes!

Where to Stay in Lake Placid, NY

Like Stowe, Lake Placid has some amazing places to stay.

Here are my recommendations based on previous trips I took here:

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid ($$) —This amazing hotel includes all the amenities you need for an extra comfortable stay and has a GORGEOUS view overlooking Mirror Lake.

Mirror Lake Inn ($$$) —A fantastic property overlooking Mirror Lake that has the perfect spa to end your trip with. The entire time you’re there, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Adirondacks!

High Peaks Resort ($$) —Located right in the middle of all the action, this gorgeous resort has private beach access you can use to enjoy Mirror Lake and the surrounding foliage. Pet-friendly too!

Insider Tip: Tomorrow will be a travel day back to Albany, New York!

Day 10—Drive to Albany, NY

Day 10 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Albany, NY
• Stay: Albany, NY, or depart

Now it’s time to wrap up our New England fall road trip!

Drive to Albany

This day is short and sweet.

You’ll be driving the 2-hour drive back to Albany, New York, where you might be departing, or you will stay the night and leave the next day. 

Either way, plan your travel accordingly!

If you have time to grab coffee before leaving Lake Placid, I suggest trying  The Coffee Bar !

The lake views here are *chef’s kiss* and will be a great way to cap off your leaf-peeping New England adventure.

Otherwise, that’s a wrap!

Let’s quickly discuss what this trip would look like if you started in Boston, MA.

Insider Tip: Additionally, you can head to the New York Catskills to see more fall foliage (covered in the bonus sections).

BONUS New England Fall Road Trip Itineraries

Let’s quickly go over the other ways you call pull this trip off.

After this, we’ll talk about bonus stops!

10-Day Fall Road Trip in New England Starting in Boston

Alternatively, you can arrive at the Boston-Logan International Airport and drive 2 hours to Conway, NH. 

This would mean your first night would be in Conway, NH. 

You would then proceed with days: 2 through 8 from the Albany itinerary.

Then, on day 9, head towards Boston and stop in Woodstock, VT.

Woodstock, VT is where you can see the Sleepy Hollow Farm. 

Finally, on day 10, you can explore Boston, MA, and prepare to depart!

The map below illustrates what your route would look like.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Only have five days?

I recommend flying into Manchester, NH, and focusing your time and efforts on seeing New Hampshire and Vermont.

In that case, fly into Manchester, NH, and drive about 2 hours to Conway, NH.

With Conway as your hub, you can have a BLAST exploring the White Mountains (days 2 through 4) AND make a stop in Stowe, VT (day 8).

If you end in Stowe, you’ll have a 2.5-hour drive back to the Manchester area. 

3 Day Fall Foliage Trip

If you only have three days to work with, I suggest exploring New Hampshire fall foliage.

You can spend three days going around the White Mountains and have a fantastic time!

A road trip like this would look similar to days 2 through 4 on our extensive itinerary.

You’d fly into Manchester, NH, and stay in Conway, NH.

If you’re up for it, take a day trip to Stowe from Conway (about a 2.5-hour drive).

New England Fall Foliage Bonus Stops

Regardless of where you start your trip, you should know that there are plenty of unique places we didn’t cover!

Want to switch things up or add additional destinations to your fall road trips in New England?

This section is for you.

Sleepy Hollow Farm in Woodstock, VT

Spend an extra night in Stowe and take a day trip to Woodstock’s Sleepy Hollow Farm. It’s possibly one of the most photogenic farms in Vermont. The best part?

The farm is less than an hour from Stowe, so you don’t have to drive too far! 

If you can, I recommend exploring Woodstock during the day.

You’ll enjoy some hella New England vibes and great coffee (like at Soulfully Good Cafe ). 

Connecticut

If you’re looking to  switch it up , add Connecticut to your list!

During your East Coast fall road trip, you can opt to take Route 9 through the Connecticut River Valley. 

And if you want a unique way to see fall colors, ride on the historic  Essex Steam Train ! 

The Essex will take you on a scenic journey through some of Connecticut’s most beautiful fall views. 

For an authentic leaf-peeping New England experience,  try a fall foliage cruise  (available in other New England states too).

Portland, Maine

There is so much to do in Portland, Maine !

You can go apple picking or even take a tour of a Sugar House where a farmer will let you try some of their fresh maple syrup. 

For example, Merrifield Farm and Sugar Shack have maple cotton candy and fresh vanilla ice cream with maple syrup visitors can buy.

Of course, you can get pancakes here too!

AND…AND, if you want to have a real Portland, Maine experience, you can  book a fall foliage private sightseeing cruise . 

Honestly, I don’t think it gets any more New England than that.

Make sure you grab a lobster roll and head to Portland Head Light too!

Catskills, New York

This region ended up being one of my favorite spots during my fall road trips in New England!

The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway is a great place to end your fall foliage adventure. 

Minnewaska State Park will make all your leaf-peeping dreams come true! For some of the better foliage views,  hike to Kaaterskill Falls . 

If you’re into cabin vibes, I suggest booking a stay in a luxe country home like this for the night.

It is spacious and has a hot tub, one of my favorite ways to end a long trip. 

The Lake Minnewaska area is about 2 hours from Albany airport.

Finger Lakes Area

In New York, I suggest visiting Taughannock Falls State Park or Watkins Glen at some point on your New England fall road trip itinerary. 

Both of these stops are in the Finger Lakes National Forest area.

It’s a bit out of the way, but it could be worth the visit if you want to explore more of New York.

You can also opt to visit the Seneca Lake area and do a whole  Seneca Lake Wine Tasting Tour . 

I have PACKED this New England fall road trip itinerary with some of my best fall color recommendations.

Whether you’re a fellow PSL lover or just a fan of autumn, I genuinely hope you enjoy your East Coast fall road trip! If you want to see more epic fall adventures, I recommend checking out my New England blogs!

If you enjoyed this blog, please share it on Pinterest !

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When is a great time to go in the fall?

Very helpful. Thanks a lot for posting this!

Amazing recommendations! Thank you so much for doing this!

Amazing post…Thanks for sharing…

Hi Dani, Help ,,, need your clarification please, is table rock – Dixville notch state park, is it located in New Hampshire or Vermont ? By any chance if you could remember what state highway or Interstate freeway you took, your help will be greatly appreciated and thank you in advance Sally

Your itinerary is a great help, we’ll follow your suggestion. Thanks for sharing and greatly appreciated !

Hi Dani, this is the best new england trip suggestion I’ve read. Thank you so much for sharing and appreciate every detail you put in!

I have used your New England itinerary for our upcoming fall color tour. However I am having a hard time printing it out. We are arriving inAlbany, New York via Amtrak and continuing on for your 10 day trip starting at the Berkshires and ending in Lake Placid. If you can would you be so kind as to email it to me so I can print it off. I want to follow most of your recommended places to visit and would like a printed copy( seniors, lol) to take along with us. We are leaving on 10-1 21 from Chicago. Any additional tips would be appreciated. Thanks so much.

Sandra Loerop

Sent from my iPad

I watched about 10 traveling videos this week trying decide where to go. And this post the best one by far best. Shows pics and personal videos, didn’t spend to much time on each place

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I'm a burrito loving explorer who got fired from corporate America and turned that into my dream career as a photographer and blogger. Now I'm here to help you explore life's magic. Thanks for stopping by!

Best Day Trips From Albany Ny

Are you ready for an adventure? Join us as we explore the best day trips from Albany, NY.

From the charming city of Hudson to the cultural haven of Lenox, MA, there's something for everyone.

Get ready to discover the wonders of the Rochester's National Museum of Play and experience the thrill of horse racing in Saratoga Springs.

And for all you nature lovers, the Adirondack Park Region awaits with its breathtaking scenery.

So, let's pack our bags and embark on an unforgettable journey right in our own backyard.

Key Takeaways

• Hudson is a city and county seat of Columbia county, located about a 42-minute drive from Albany. It offers attractions such as the Olana State Historic Site, Warren Street with its colorful and historic buildings, and Hudson Hall for musical shows.
• Lenox, MA is a town in Berkshire County, about a 46-minute drive from Albany. It is home to attractions like Ventfort Hall Mansion for a Victorian-era tour, the Gilded Age Museum for fascinating artifacts, and the Lenox Library for a relaxing stop. Visitors can also enjoy yoga sessions at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health and classic plays at the Shakespeare & Company Show.
• Rochester's National Museum of Play, located about 3 hours and 15 minutes drive from Albany, is a perfect day trip for families. It features exhibits related to Sesame Street, superheroes, comics, games, and infrastructure. Visitors can also explore an indoor garden with butterflies and halls of fame showcasing various contributions.
• Saratoga Springs, a city known for thoroughbred horse racing, is only a 38-minute drive from Albany. Visitors can enjoy green spaces and picnics at Congress Park, experience a 120-year-old carved carousel, and watch horse races at the Saratoga Race Course. The city also offers mineral springs at the Spa State Park, downtown shops and restaurants, and shows at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Hudson: City and County Seat of Columbia County

We can explore the historic sites and art galleries in Hudson, which is the city and county seat of Columbia County. Hudson offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the highlights of Hudson is its local cuisine. The city is home to numerous restaurants that showcase the region's farm-to-table approach, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes. From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, there's something to suit every palate in Hudson.

If you're looking for outdoor activities, Lenox, just a short drive from Hudson, is the perfect destination. Lenox is a charming town located in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. Here, you can explore the beautiful outdoor spaces, such as Ventfort Hall Mansion and the Gilded Age Museum. Lenox also offers a variety of cultural experiences, including the Lenox Library and the Shakespeare & Company Show. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Lenox has something for everyone.

Lenox, MA: Town in Berkshire County

Let's explore the charming town of Lenox, MA, located in Berkshire County, and discover its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

Lenox is home to Ventfort Hall Mansion, where you can take a Victorian era tour and step back in time to the opulence of the Gilded Age. The Gilded Age Museum is another must-visit attraction, showcasing fascinating artifacts from this extravagant period in history.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Lenox offers the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health. Here, you can participate in yoga and health sessions, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Berkshires. The center provides a serene retreat for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

In addition to its historical and wellness offerings, Lenox is also home to the Lenox Library, a tranquil spot to unwind and enjoy a good book. And for theater enthusiasts, Shakespeare & Company puts on captivating shows of classic plays.

With its charming architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque landscapes, Lenox, MA is a destination that offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're interested in Victorian era tours, yoga and health sessions, or simply immersing yourself in the town's natural beauty, Lenox is sure to enchant and delight.

Rochester's National Museum of Play: Museum in Rochester

There are numerous exhibits and interactive displays at Rochester's National Museum of Play, making it the perfect destination for a family-friendly day trip. The museum offers a wide range of activities that are both educational and entertaining for children of all ages.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Sesame Street exhibit, where kids can meet their favorite characters and explore the iconic street. Additionally, there's a superhero exhibit that allows children to step into the shoes of their favorite heroes and learn about their superpowers.

In addition to these interactive exhibits, the National Museum of Play also features an indoor garden filled with beautiful butterflies, providing a unique and enchanting experience. The museum also has halls of fame that celebrate the contributions of individuals in various fields, including comics, games, and infrastructure. Visitors can learn about the history and development of these industries through engaging displays and interactive activities.

As we transition into the subsequent section about Saratoga Springs, a city known for thoroughbred horse racing, we invite you to explore another exciting destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures.

Saratoga Springs: City Known for Thoroughbred Horse Racing

Saratoga Springs, known for its thoroughbred horse racing, offers a vibrant horse racing culture that attracts visitors from all over.

In addition to the races, the city is home to historical attractions like the Saratoga Race Course and the 120-year-old carved carousel in Congress Park.

For those seeking outdoor activities, Saratoga Springs boasts beautiful parks like Spa State Park and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for shows and concerts.

Horse Racing Culture

We can learn a lot about the horse racing culture by exploring the history and traditions of this beloved sport. Horse racing events have been a part of human civilization for centuries, attracting spectators and participants from all walks of life.

From the famous jockeys who've become legends in the sport to the thrill and excitement of the races themselves, horse racing has captured the imaginations of people around the world. It's a sport that combines athleticism, strategy, and a deep connection between horse and rider.

The traditions that surround horse racing, such as the pageantry and elegance of the Kentucky Derby, further enhance the overall experience. As we delve into the horse racing culture, we can gain a greater appreciation for the historical attractions and parks that have become synonymous with this sport.

Historical Attractions and Parks

Let's explore some of the fascinating historical attractions and parks in Saratoga Springs, such as the 120-year-old carved carousel and Spa State Park with its mineral springs.

Saratoga Springs, known for its thoroughbred horse racing, offers so much more than just the racetrack.

In the fall, you can witness the breathtaking fall foliage in Adirondack Park, just a short drive away. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a picturesque backdrop for hiking or simply enjoying nature's beauty.

And when winter comes, the Catskills Scenic Trail becomes a playground for adventure seekers. Whether you're a seasoned skier or just starting out, the trail offers a winter skiing adventure that will leave you exhilarated.

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

When attending a show at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, we can enjoy the lively atmosphere and the incredible performances.

The outdoor concerts at the center provide a unique and immersive experience, allowing us to enjoy music under the open sky while surrounded by the beauty of nature. From classical symphonies to popular bands, the variety of performances cater to different musical tastes and preferences.

In addition to the concerts, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center is also known for its breathtaking ballet performances. We're able to witness the grace, elegance, and artistry of talented dancers as they bring stories to life through their movements.

Whether it's the energetic beats of a concert or the enchanting performances of ballet, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center offers a vibrant and captivating experience for all.

Adirondack Park Region: Protected Park Known for Fall Foliage

The Adirondack Park Region, located approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes drive from Albany, is a protected park known for its stunning fall foliage. This beautiful region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes, it's no wonder that fall foliage photography is a popular activity in the Adirondacks.

In addition to capturing the beauty of the changing leaves, there are many other outdoor activities to enjoy in this region. Hiking trails can be found throughout the park, offering opportunities to explore the diverse terrain and discover hidden waterfalls and gorges. For those seeking a thrill, the Extreme Adventure Course provides ziplining and rope swings amidst the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.

The Adirondack Park Region is also home to the Wild Center, where visitors can learn about the unique wildlife and ecosystems that inhabit the park. The Wild Walk treetop trail offers a birds-eye view of the surrounding area, providing a unique perspective on the fall foliage.

Whether you're an avid photographer or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, the Adirondack Park Region is a must-visit destination for fall foliage and outdoor activities.

Catskills Scenic Trail: Multi-Use Rail Trail in Rural Delaware County

The Catskills Scenic Trail is a fantastic multi-use rail trail located in rural Delaware County, just a 1 hour and 16 minutes drive from Albany. This trail offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the green, lush forest and enjoy a close-to-nature experience.

Additionally, there are plenty of nearby attractions and dining options to explore, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Scenic Trail Activities

We often enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the Catskills Scenic Trail in rural Delaware County. It's a fantastic trail that offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Here are some of the scenic trail activities we can partake in:

• Hiking:
• Explore the lush forest and enjoy the solitude.
• Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
• Spot wildlife along the way, such as deer and birds.
• Biking:
• Feel the wind in your hair as you pedal through the scenic trail.
• Enjoy the smooth and well-maintained path.
• Take breaks to admire the beautiful landscapes.

In addition to the trail activities, there are plenty of nearby attractions and dining options to explore. Whether it's visiting historic sites, art galleries, or enjoying a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants, there's something for everyone.

The Catskills Scenic Trail truly offers a perfect combination of outdoor adventure and nearby amenities.

Nearby Attractions and Dining?

There are plenty of historic sites and art galleries, as well as delicious dining options, to explore near the Catskills Scenic Trail.

When it comes to nearby attractions, Hudson is a city that offers a vibrant cultural scene with its Olana State Historic Site and Warren Street's colorful buildings.

Lenox, MA is another great option, with its Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum for those interested in history.

If you're looking for a fun day trip for the family, Rochester's National Museum of Play is the perfect destination with its Sesame Street and superhero exhibits.

For some relaxation, Saratoga Springs is known for its horse racing and offers Congress Park and the Saratoga Race Course.

And of course, don't miss out on the local cuisine in each of these destinations, with their unique flavors and farm-to-table restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions How Can I Get to Hudson From Albany?

To get to Hudson from Albany, there are a few transportation options available.

The best route is a 42-minute drive along I-90 E.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Albany to Hudson, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

If you prefer a scenic option, you can also take a train from Albany-Rensselaer to Hudson, which typically takes 30 minutes.

Both the bus and train offer convenient and comfortable travel options for visiting Hudson.

What Are Some Popular Attractions in Lenox, Ma?

Lenox, MA offers a delightful day trip with its enchanting attractions. Immerse yourself in the magic of Tanglewood Concerts, where world-class musicians captivate audiences.

Explore Edith Wharton's Home, a stunning mansion that transports you to the Gilded Age. Lenox also boasts the Ventfort Hall Mansion for Victorian-era elegance, the Lenox Library for a peaceful retreat, and the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health for rejuvenation.

With its rich history and cultural treasures, Lenox is a must-visit destination.

What Are the Operating Hours of Rochester's National Museum of Play?

The operating hours of Rochester's National Museum of Play can be found on their website. It's a great day trip option from Albany, NY.

To reach Hudson from Albany, it's just a 42-minute drive. Hudson offers attractions like the Olana State Historic Site and Warren Street with its colorful and historic buildings. Plus, there's the Hudson Hall for musical shows.

It's a wonderful destination for a day trip filled with culture and entertainment.

Are There Any Hotels or Accommodations Available in Saratoga Springs?

There are plenty of hotels and accommodations available in Saratoga Springs. Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, Saratoga Springs has something to offer.

You can choose from a variety of options that suit your preferences and budget. From charming historic inns to modern hotels with all the amenities, you'll find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Saratoga Springs.

Can You Recommend Any Guided Tours or Activities in the Adirondack Park Region?

When it comes to the Adirondack Park Region, there are plenty of guided tours and outdoor adventure activities to choose from. Whether you're looking for guided hiking tours or thrilling outdoor adventures, this region has it all.

Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Adirondack Park with knowledgeable guides who can show you the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable exploration of nature's wonders.

In conclusion, the Albany, NY area offers an array of exciting day trip options. Whether you're interested in history, culture, family fun, or nature, there's something for everyone.

From exploring the charming city of Hudson to immersing yourself in the Victorian-era charm of Lenox, MA, or enjoying a day of horse racing in Saratoga Springs, the possibilities are endless.

So, don't wait any longer – start planning your unforgettable adventure today!

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