New England Fall Foliage

Day 1 – Welcome to Massachusetts! (Monday, October 5)

Optional transfers from our departure points will have us at LAX this morning for a scheduled nonstop flight arriving in Boston this afternoon. Those guests making their own flight arrangements can request the group’s flight schedule (subject to change) to coordinate a flight arrival time that would allow them to be included on the complimentary transfer to the hotel. In Boston, we’ll board a deluxe motorcoach and continue to Sturbridge, Massachusetts where we’ll enjoy dinner on own followed by an overnight stay.

Day 2 – Vermont (Tuesday, October 6)

This morning we’ll continue north through the scenic Pioneer Valley as we enter Vermont, the “Green Mountain State.” During autumn, this region transforms into the fall foliage capital of the world, with rolling forests awash in vibrant crimsons, burnt oranges, and brilliant golds. We’ll visit Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home – the magnificent 1905 Georgian Revival estate of Robert Todd Lincoln who was the oldest child of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln. Exploring the 412-acre grounds, you’ll find a preserved 1903 Pullman railcar, a celestial observatory, and exquisite formal gardens. Enjoy time at leisure for lunch on your own in downtown Manchester – a quintessential New England town. This afternoon we’ll browse the nostalgic aisles of the Vermont Country Store, a family-run landmark packed with “bygone era” treasures. After an included dinner at a locals’ favorite, we’ll begin a two-night stay at a premier mountain resort in Killington, Vermont. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 3 – Vermont (Wednesday, October 7)

This morning, we’re joined by a local guide for an immersive journey through Vermont’s winding backroads and historic landmarks. We’ll visit President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site at Plymouth Notch, remarkably preserved as a time capsule of 1920s American life. Explore the humble birthplace of our 30th president, the family homestead where he took the oath of office by lamplight, and the quiet hillside cemetery where he now rests. We’ll visit a local sugar house to see firsthand how maple sap is transformed into Vermont’s legendary “liquid gold.” Enjoy an included boxed lunch and time at leisure in Woodstock, a quintessential New England town famous for its iconic covered bridge. We’ll visit the breathtaking Quechee Gorge – often called Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” – before returning to the resort for a relaxing evening at leisure. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 4 – Vermont, New Hampshire’s Lakes Region (Thursday, October 8)

This morning, we’ll be joined by a local guide as we cross into the “Granite State” of New Hampshire to explore the picturesque Lakes Region. After time at leisure for lunch on your own in the lakeside town of Meredith, we’ll take to the water for a narrated cruise on Squam Lake. Famous as the filming location for the classic movie On Golden Pond, the lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, scenic mountain views, celebrated islands, historic summer estates, and abundant wildlife. Then it’s all aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for a nostalgic journey featuring a traditional roasted turkey dinner while rolling past the stunning shoreline of Lake Winnipesaukee. We’ll stay overnight in nearby Plymouth, known as the ”Gateway to the White Mountains.” (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 5 – White Mountains of New Hampshire, Kennebunkport (Friday, October 9)

This morning, we’ll venture into New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountains for a drive along the legendary Kancamagus Highway, a National Scenic Byway considered to be one of the best fall foliage viewing areas in the world! Later this morning we’ll cross into the “Pine Tree State” of Maine and arrive in the coastal gem of Kennebunkport with time at leisure to browse the charming boutiques and artisan galleries of Dock Square. This afternoon we’ll be joined by a local guide for a driving tour showcasing historic sea captain mansions, sandy beaches, the rocky Atlantic coast, and Walker’s Point – the long-time summer estate of the Bush family. Learn the history of this shipbuilding town and the legend of the ornate Wedding Cake House. We’ll visit St. Anthony’s Franciscan Monastery Estate, featuring English-style gardens and outdoor chapels. Later we’ll arrive in the seaside village of Ogunquit, a quintessential New England town. We’ll savor a two-night stay at a resort perfectly situated next to the Marginal Way, a stunning cliffside walking path overlooking tranquil coves and beaches. Enjoy dinner on your own at the resort. (Breakfast)

Day 6 – Portland, Maine (Saturday, October 10)

This morning we’ll experience a traditional lobstering cruise that provides stunning views of Maine’s rugged shoreline and a firsthand look at Maine’s most famous industry as we watch authentic lobster traps being hauled from the Atlantic floor. We’ll travel north to Portland, where a local guide will join us for an insightful tour through the city’s historic districts. We’ll pass the boyhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, stately sea captain mansions, the opulent Victoria Mansion and take in panoramic views of the Casco Bay Islands. Later, we’ll visit the legendary Portland Head Light – commissioned by George Washington, it stands as Maine’s oldest lighthouse and remains the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Enjoy time at leisure this afternoon exploring Portland’s Old Port Historic District, a restored waterfront district featuring charming cobblestone streets, gas-lit storefronts and a variety of eateries. This evening we’ll enjoy a quintessential Maine experience: an included lobster feast (with alternate entrée available) at a locals’ favorite. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 7 – Boston, Journey Home (Sunday, October 11)

This morning, we’ll travel south to Boston and join a local guide for a driving tour of the “Capital of New England.” We’ll trace the roots of American independence along the famous Freedom Trail, passing Boston Common and the Public Garden, and catching a glimpse of the iconic gold-domed Massachusetts State House. Our journey continues through the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods, from the elegant brownstones of Back Bay to the gas-lit cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill. Enjoy time at leisure at Quincy Market, a bustling historic landmark filled with local flavors and eclectic shops. This afternoon we arrive at Boston Logan Airport for our scheduled nonstop flight to Los Angeles. Those guests making their own flight arrangements can request the group’s flight schedule (subject to change) to coordinate a similar flight departure time that would allow them to be included on the complimentary transfer to the airport. Back in Los Angeles, those guests with pre-arranged transfers will be returned to their respective drop-offs. (Breakfast)

While we make every effort to operate our tours as outlined in the itinerary, we ask for your patience, understanding and flexibility and to retain a sense of adventure while traveling with us. Situations may arise that necessitate changes to the itinerary. Should we need to adjust the itinerary either prior to or while on tour, these changes will be communicated to you and only done when absolutely necessary.