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Home » North America » USA » New England

EPIC New England Road Trip Itineraries (2024)

Going on a New England road trip  has to be one of the best ways to experience the region! With your own vehicle, you’ll be able to go wherever you want, stay where you like, and see whatever you fancy.

New England has been charming visitors for a long time. Of all of the regions in the USA, New England has some the richest history (being the birthplace of the nation and all), some of the most exciting locals, and best seafood, period.

And the fall foliage in New England? What more can be said about this phenomenon that hasn’t be said by dozens of movies – it’s simply one of the most romantic sights in the USA.

New England is by no means cheap nor easy to travel without some guidance. In order to see the best of New England, and not drop a fortune while doing so, you’re going to need a little assistance.

Don’t worry – we have the insider information you need for an EPIC journey. So what are we waiting for?! Let’s get the ball rolling on your New England road trip itinerary!

Best Time of Year to Road Trip New England

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With something always going on, a road trip to New England is possible at any time of the year! In New England, summers are for beach trips, fall is for the foliage, winter is for skiing, and spring is for festivals.

If you can stand the occasional poor weather – the blinding snow and sometimes uncomfortable humidity – then you’ll do just fine in New England.

The climate in New England isn’t always agreeable, a fact that many residents will remind you of when you’re there. Winters are long and can be bitter cold and summers feel unfairly humid and short.

The weather in New England has a habit of being bipolar as well, appearing beautiful one moment only to turn to shit in a moment.

This doesn’t stop New Englanders from having a good time though as they seem to have something to do 365 days of the year. They take the weather with a grain of salt, as they should, and simply say, “if the weather’s no good, just wait 15 minutes (and it’ll be better).”

Outside of the mountainous regions, which can have Arctic qualities, there are no huge climatic swings in New England. Overall, temperatures are relatively cool and precipitation is spread throughout the year.

What makes New England feel so cold is the Canadian winds that come down and wreak havoc. These winds penetrate to the bone and can really ruin your day.

A thermometer may read 30 Fahrenheit but with the wind chill, it could feel like 0. Be sure to bring lots of layers and a windbreaker in the winter.

Fall in New England means changing foliage, the astounding beauty of which attracts every Joe Schmoe and his family to visit. If you’re on a road trip during this time, expect much higher prices and much less availability. Having said that, it’s one of the best places in the world to visit in September and October, so it’s worth it!

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Below is a list of sample New England road trip routes, from East Coast budget adventures to more comprehensive trips that cost a bit more. Varying from 4 to 14 days in length, they cover many of the top destinations in New England. Each itinerary provides day-by-day highlights, which are meant to give you some good New England road trip ideas.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

4-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary: Boston and the Cape

4 Days: Boston and the Cape

Arrive in Boston via Logan International Airport or by other means. Once you’re checked into your lodge and settled in, get ready to see the town!

Our  Boston itinerary  includes a visit to downtown Boston to see:

• Fenway Park
• The Freedom Trail
• Acorn Street
• Trinity Church
• Boston Commons

After that, head to bed because the next day we start again!

Today you’ll be getting off the beaten path in Boston.

• Southend for an authentic Bostonian experience
• Cambridge for Harvard and MIT
• East Boston for good food and views
• Walden Pond for transcendental fans
• Bunker Hill for history

Today we’re officially starting the drive, so have your car organized for a road trip to Cape Cod. Start driving on Highway 6 and then transfer to Highway 3 prior to the Cape Cod Canal. Once you’ve arrived, find your Cape Cod lodge/campsite and get set up.

Next, we’ll explore the Cape. Activities include:

• Lighthouses
• Charming settlements
• Trinket shopping
• Historical landmarks
• Biking and hiking
• Cape Cod Rail Trail

This is the last day of your short road trip from Boston. You can opt for a few different choices today.

Either consider visiting Nantucket Island or Martha’s Vineyard via the ferry. If not though, you can continue exploring the island and seeing what’s around.

When all is said and done, pack your things for a late flight in the evening or a flight the next day.

7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary: New England’s Best Fall Foliage

7 Days: New England’s Best Fall Foliage

• Arrive at Logan International and organize your car; skip this if you’re coming by road from elsewhere.
• Hit the road immediately and head west on the I-90 and I-84 for Hartford, CT.
• Pass Hartford and continue onto the Litchfield Hills in West Connecticut.
• Spend the night in Kent, Cromwell or elsewhere.
• Admire the foliage.
• Depart from your lodge and head north on I-7 through the Housatonic Valley; red and gold foliage in abundance.
• Arrive at the junction between I-7 and Highway 2 near Williamstown.
• Highway 2 is colloquially referred to the Mohawk Trail, which offers some of the best of New England as well as excellent fall colors.
• Stay nearby and drive along the 2 to your heart’s desire.
• Drive on the Mohawk Trail if you haven’t already.
• When ready, head for Green Mountain National Forest of Vermont via I-7 again.
• Drive through the Green Mountains until Burlington.
• Grab a beer and chill for the night.

Today is a long but rewarding day.

• Depart from Burlington and head for Cambridge, VT.
• Hit the 108 and Smuggler’s Notch for excellent mountain views and foliage.
• Make your way east towards Bath, New Hampshire.
• Turn onto Highway 112 before Bath, which is the beginning of the Kancamagus Highway.
• Continue onto Lincoln, admiring the scenery along the way.
• Find a Lincoln Airbnb or stay in North Conway or elsewhere in the White Mountains.
• Finish the Kancamagus Highway (112), which terminates at Conway.
• Head north upon reaching Conway on Highway 16.
• Enjoy Mt Washington and White Mountain National Forest, which is particularly fantastic in fall.
• Turn onto I-2 and then again onto 113 to reach Evans Notch.
• Finish up and head south towards Portland for the night.
• Drive to Acadia National Park , which is one of the best places for fall foliage in New England.
• Make a tour around Mt Desert Island and get a full dose of autumn splendor and coastline.
• Spend the night around Acadia or back in Portland.
• Consider spending the night in Camden as there is excellent foliage here.
• Pack up and head back to Boston.
• Spend the day exploring the city.
• Get ready to depart that evening or the next day.

14-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary: Ultimate New England

14 Days: Ultimate New England Road Trip

Follow the first East Coast itinerary listed here  except  instead of returning to Boston at the end of day 4, relax and stay the night in Cape Cod. We’ll be moving on from there the next day…

• Depart from Cape Cod and hit I-6, which will take you all the way to Providence, Rhode Island.
• Explore the city and its architecture.
• Be sure to drop by one of the many breweries and brewpubs.
• Spend the night in or around Providence.
• Wake up and head directly for Newport via Highway 114.
• Spend the day exploring the opulent town.
• Be sure to visit the many mansions and estates as well as Fort Adams in the south.
• Depart when you’re ready.
• Drop by Narragansett for some beach time if you have time.
• Stop in Old Saybrook for the night or continue onto New Haven.
• Depart from your lodge and make your way north.
• Head to the state capital Hartford.
• Wadsworth Falls
• Buttermilk Falls
• Settle in Hartford for some culture and good partying or…
• Head to Litchfield Hills for a quieter night.
• Make your way up Knowledge Corridor or Housatonic Valley towards Vermont.
• Be sure to drop by the Mohawk Trail in Northwest Massachusetts for some scenery and history.
• Hit highway 7 and make the long drive to Burlington.
• Reward your hard work today with a beer.
• Spend the day exploring the Green Mountains of Vermont.
• Climbing the  Camel’s Hump .
• Hiking around  Mt Mansfield .
• Check out  Smuggler’s Notch .
• Rafting on the  Mad River .
• Spend the night in Burlington again.
• Depart from Burlington and head east towards Lincoln, New Hampshire via I-89.
• Arrive in the White Mountains and settle into whatever lodge/campground you have booked.
• Spend the remainder of the day in the mountains.
• Flume Gorge
• Mt Washington
• Franconia Notch
• Arethusa Falls
• Lonesome Lake
• If you arrived early enough, considering overnighting in a backcountry campsite.
• Wake up and knock off any remaining activities.
• Consider doing the full-day Presidential Traverse but, full-warning, it’s quite arduous.
• Lay your head down for the night, preferably around a campfire with a drink.
• Depart from the White Mountains and travel on Highway 302 to Portland, Maine.
• If you stay in Portland, visit the many maritime landmarks, trinket shops, and breweries.
• Spend the day exploring Acadia National Park.
• Taking a road trip around  Mt Desert Island .
• Climbing  Cadillac Mountain .
• Visiting  Jordan Pond .
• Relaxing on  Sand Beach .
• Walking around  Bar Harbor .
• Head to your lodge for the night.

Below is a list of the best road trip destinations in New England. Study them well and decide which ones you like the most.

Road Trip to Boston

Boston is the largest city in New England and, honestly, one of the coolest cities in the entire United States. With gorgeous architecture, some of America’s most important history, and hugely diverse demographics, there’s little chance you’ll run out of things to do in Boston .

Downtown Boston – the area with all the skyscrapers – is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s attractions. Notable points of interest in Boston Downtown include Fenway Park , the Trinity Church, Boston Commons, Acorn Hill , and the North End. You could easily hit all of these places in a few hours by walking.

North across the Charles River is Cambridge , home to the famously exclusive Harvard College and MIT . Both campuses are worth visiting – the former for traditional architecture and the latter for ultra-modern. The whole of Cambridge is pretty affluent, being inhabited by students and leaders in tech, but thankfully doesn’t suffer from too much snootiness.

South Boston is the home of the “southies” aka those people that sound like Matt Damon from Good Will Hunting . Aside from the impressive JFK Library, there isn’t a whole lot to do here besides people watch, which is, admittedly, awesome.

Finally, across the Boston Channel and next to Logan International is East Boston, which is where most of the immigrants live. These means this is one of the best places in Boston to grab food! The views ain’t bad either.

While you’re travelling around Boston , be sure to also get outside of the city of as well! The historical city of Concord , as well as the hallowed Walden Pond , are both worth a day trip.

Road Trip to Cape Cod and the Islands

Cape Cod is a large, prominent peninsula located south of Boston. It is an immensely popular getaway destination due in part to its extensive coastline and profuseness of quaint coastal towns.

Combined with the ever-enchanting Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island , both located nearby, and you have an assembly of some of the best of New England.

Cape Cod is a very large region, surprisingly so, and is broken into several districts. Because of its size, history, and prosperity, Cape Codians are very proud of their home and consider it more than just a tourist destination. There are loads of great places to stay in Cape Cod , if you fancy extending your trip!

There are several charming towns on Cape Cod that are worth visiting. Hyannis is most notable for the Kennedy Compound , which served as the holiday home for JFK and his family, as well the enormous Beech Tree on Main Street .

Fans of Kurt Vonnegut may also be interested in nearby Barnstable as it was his home for several decades. Affluent Chatham has one of the best lighthouses and local baseball teams on the Cape (Cape Codians are crazy for the sport).

Finally, Provincetown is famous for its artsy and expressive LGBT community.

Most everyone comes to Cape Cod to play in the sea as the peninsula has some of the best beaches in New England. Make no mistake, there are a lot of them too.

Stunning stretches of sand can be found at Nauset Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Sandy Neck Beach, Mayflower Beach, and pretty anywhere else along the Cape Cod National Shoreline Park . You may get lucky and even see a migrating humpback whale!

No road trip to Cape Cod is complete without a trip to Nantucket Island or Martha’s Vineyard – both are among the most desirable places to visit in New England, during summer especially so.

Martha’s Vineyard is full of grand residences for the rich as well as picturesque beaches. Nantucket is similar to Martha’s Vineyard but smaller and quieter. You can catch a ferry to either at Hyannis.

Road Trip to Rhode Island

Rhode Island has a little bit of everything. The largest city, Providence , is often considered a good alternative to Boston, and the surrounding state offers quintessential scenery including rugged coastline, quaint townships, and, of course, the fall foliage New England is so beloved for.

Providence is the third largest city in New England. For a long time, Providence had a bad reputation for being sketchy, crime-ridden, and corrupt but, following massive economic pushes, is currently undergoing an urban renaissance. It’s now a very appealing city thanks to its history with a bustling college scene, solid nightlife, and heaps of stuff to do .

Providence is a small city so getting around on a foot is a very reasonable task. Walk around and take note of the diverse architecture. Be sure to see the State House, the eclectic Brown University, the restored Arcade, and the First Baptist Church , among others, for a lesson in American architectural history.

For a languid afternoon, try visiting one of the many museums and/or parks in Providence. Certain neighborhoods, like Federal Hill, College Hill, and Downcity all offer nice urban panoramas as well. End your day at one of the many breweries in the city.

Rhode Island’s other noteworthy city is Newport . An opulent town, full of mansions and elegant avenues, Newport is a prime example of New England decadence. Rosecliff estate served as a setting in the recent Great Gatsby film and its neighbors – The Beakers and Marble House – are equally grandiose.

There is a thriving art scene in Newport and jazz, in particular, is praised here. There is an awesome jazz festival at Fort Adams. Festival or not, Fort Adams is worth seeing because it is one of the most important historical structures in New England.

Newport has many beautiful city beaches including Bailey’s, Easton, and Gooseberry. To see some real contenders for “best beaches in New England,” head across the Jamestown Verrazano Bridge to Narragansett . If you’re ever wondering where to stay in Newport, you should definitely consider staying in one of the more historic bed and breakfasts in Rhode Island there.

Coastal Connecticut Road Trip

Connecticut is an eclectic state visited often by both New Englanders and New Yorkers, the latter of which only live a short train ride away. It is a popular getaway for city folk who need a break from the grind and some time in rural New England.

With a lovely coastline, romantic countryside, and a number of dynamic cities, Connecticut is a great stop along any New England road trip route USA.

Connecticut can be broken down roughly into three parts: the coast, the “Knowledge Corridor,” and the countryside. This section will cover coastal Connecticut , which is a part of Southern New England.

Driving west along Highway 95 from Rhode Island, you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful beach towns in New England. Stonington is a good place to learn about the maritime history of the state – particularly at the Old Lighthouse Museum .

Old Saybrook is one of the prettiest coastal towns in Connecticut and is also a stone’s throw away from Gillette Castle . On the way to New Haven is Hammonasset Beach , which is the longest and busiest beach in the state. Make sure to stay in one of the stunning cabins in Connecticut to make the most out of all this natural scenery.

New Haven marks the beginning of a long stretch of urban development that spans all the way to New York state.

New Haven is most famous for Yale University , which is arguably the top attraction in the city. Being a college town, New Haven has a great art scene and nightlife. The pizza is also particularly good in this town.

As we continue further west along 95, we’ll pass by many more beautiful New England towns. There’s quiet Milford , which has a great beach called Silver Sands .

Next, you’ll pass through industrial Bridgeport . After that is upscale Stamford , glorified dockyard for millionaires from New York (there are some good beaches as well).

Finally, you’ll end up in Greenwich , which is one of the most admired towns in New England, due in part to its beauty and close proximity to New York.

There are a ton of awesome B&Bs in Connecticut where you can stay in a historical building and enjoy that welcoming East Coast hospitality.

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Road Trip through Connecticut and Massachusetts

The interior of Connecticut is dominated by the Knowledge Corridor , which hosts one of the densest collections of higher learning institutions, not to mention one of the largest populations in New England.

Travel outside this packed area and you’ll find some of some of the best of New England pastoralism including traditional townships, rolling hills, and a distinctive tranquility. Visiting either on a New England road trip provides excellent insight into the region.

Let’s start with the quieter section – the western part of Connecticut referred to as the Litchfield Hills. This part of the state is very rural with few inhabitants and even fewer visitors.

There are a number of beautiful New England towns here, including Kent , Cornwall , and New Milford , as well some lovely natural attractions like Kent Falls, Burr Pond, Candlewood Lake, and Mohawk Mountain . These are also some of the best places to visit in New England in the fall.

Moving along to our main destination, we first make for Hartford , Connecticut’s state capital and the beginning of the Knowledge Corridor. Hartford is considered one of the great culture capitals of the region.

There are several libraries and art collections dedicated to various historical figures, including Mark Twain, spread throughout the city. Reportedly, West Hartford also has a fairly active nightlife.

Outside of Hartford are a number of parks worth visiting. Examples include Enders State Forest/Falls, Buttermilk Falls , and Wadsworth Falls .

We continue our New England road trip north on Highway 91 through the Connecticut River Valley. This is the heart of the Knowledge Corridor, a title that refers to the huge concentration of colleges and universities in the area. This corridor runs all the way into Massachusetts and terminates in Springfield.

Springfield is a great city full of Victorian architecture and some of the coolest museums in New England. Be sure to visit the NBA Hall of Fame , if you’re interested in sports, as well as the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Museum , if you had a childhood.

Vermont Road Trip

True to its nickname, Vermont aka The Green Mountain State is a wild wonderland and a favorite playground for New England outdoors people. With some awesome skiing and hiking in addition to several fall foliage drives, which are among the best in New England, Vermont is a great escape from the more developed CT, MA, and RI. Here is the best opportunity to stay in a cabin in Vermont for a truly off-the-grid experience.

Starting in the south of Vermont, you’ll first arrive at the mountains from which the state gets its name, the Green Mountains . A subrange of the Appalachia, the Green Mountains are home to the state’s highest peaks as well as the best mountain activities.

Some of the best ski resorts in Vermont are Sugarbush, Stowe Mountain, Killington, Mount Snow , and Jay Peak. Though the slopes aren’t as epic as say those in Colorado or Oregon, they still get dumped on with snow and have decent runs.

If skiing isn’t your bag, why not try portions of the Green Mountain Long Trail ? This extension of the Appalachian Trail is noteworthy for hitting all the range’s highest peaks but is, for this reason, difficult at times.

Casual hikers and campers can also take advantage of the many free backcountry campsites and quaint bed and breakfasts in Vermont .

Other natural attractions worth visiting in Vermont are the Mad River, Quechee Gorge, Camel’s Hump , and the many gorgeous lakes – most notably Lake Willoughby and Lake Champlain.

Montpellier is the state capital of Vermont though Burlington is the largest and most exciting in the state.

Burlington is famous for being a hippy town as well as drop dead gorgeous because it lies on the banks of Lake Champlain. Burlington makes for an excellent base for exploring Vermont’s outdoor spaces with many quality bike paths for cycling enthusiasts.

Like any good liberal college town, Burlington has plenty of bars, and the breweries, in particular, are excellent. You ca check out Airbnbs in Vermont for cozy and comfortable stays.

Road Trip to New Hampshire

New Hampshire is very similar to Vermont in that it’s mostly visited for its epic settings and free-spirited culture. With the highest peak in all of New England, Mount Washington , as well as the beautiful White Mountains , New Hampshire is another great New England road trip destination for adventurous travelers.

If you’re on a summer New England road trip, then you’ll obviously want to hit the trails in New Hampshire. This state has some of the best hikes in New England in addition to some decent summits.

As previously mentioned, Mt Washington is the highest peak in New England and can be summitted in a day either by foot or by cog train (that’s cheating though). Be mindful of foul weather.

New Hampshire’s Mt Monadnock is argued to be the second most climbed peak in the world next to Mt Fuji, but many don’t count Monadnock because it has no glacier. (Mt Hood in Oregon is the second most climbed glaciated peak in the world.)

Another rewarding and arduous hike is the Presidential Traverse where you navigate across 11 of the state’s highest peaks. Also consider visiting Lake Winnipesaukee , Franconia Notch, Arethusa Falls, Lonesome Lake , and the Flume Gorge .

Those on a winter or spring New England road trip will be happy to hear the skiing is also quite good in New Hampshire. Popular ski resorts include Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, Cannon Mountain , and Waterville Valley .

New Hampshire is pretty sparsely populated and there aren’t too many bustling urban centers here. There are a couple of little towns worth stopping in still.

Hanover is home to the famous Dartmouth University and is gorgeous in its own right. Jackson is a gorgeous place to stay in the White Mountains and makes for a great base. Finally, Portsmouth is one of the most historically significant towns in New England and, more importantly, has great breweries.

Road Trip on the Maine Coast

Maine will be a highlight for any New England Coast road trip! With epic seascapes and even more epic seafood, Maine has a lot to offer.

Many people have fallen in love with Maine’s coastline, too many perhaps. Coastal Maine isn’t exactly hidden these days and so anyone on a summer road trip in New England will have to deal with large crowds.

You can definitely get off the beaten path in Maine but that is a topic that we will be discussing in the next section .

Driving from Portsmouth, NH, you’ll head north on the 95 to Portland , Maine, catching glimpses of the shoreline along the way. You’ll pass by several of Maine’s best beaches and towns including York, Ogunquit, Cape Elizabeth , and Goose Rocks . Upon arriving in Portland, you may think that it’s a small coastal town but is, in fact, the largest “city” in the state.

Portland is one of the best places in New England, ridiculously charming and full of quaint little attractions. You’ll learn a lot about its maritime history at the Old Port and also be afforded the opportunity to shop for artisanal souvenirs. The seafood is obviously excellent in Portland and the beer is especially delicious if not abundant.

Moving on from Portland, we continue our New England coast road trip deeper into the state. Driving on the 1 you’ll have lots of opportunities to visit the coast. Boothbay is an elegant destination, Camden is gorgeous, and Popham Beach is arguably one of the best beaches in New England.

Our ultimate destination is Acadia National Park , the only national park in New England. It is a superlative place with some astounding scenery, not to mention some of the best hikes in New England.

Spend the night in the charming seaside town of Bar Harbour , where you’ll get to try Maine’s famous cold lobster roll. You’ll find some epic Maine B&Bs here run by friendly locals.

Then go for a drive around Mt Desert Island , the island on which Acadia is located, and then explore local sites like Jordan Pond and Sand Beach . Note that you’ll have to pay an entry fee for Acadia.

Below is an overview of the Great North Woods of New England, arguably the wildest place in the Northeast. Those with the will and proper transport will be rewarded with virgin woods, pristine rivers, and an abundance of local wildlife.

Great North Woods

The Great North Woods is one of the quietest, most underdeveloped, and most beautiful places in New England. It refers to the extremely wild and untouched woodlands of northern New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine that separate New England from Canada.

With little, if any tourist infrastructure, the Great North Woods should be an awesome adventure for anyone looking for a proper USA backcountry experience on their New England road trip.

There are a fair bit of activities in the New Hampshire part of the Great North Woods. Many of New England’s best waterfalls are in this region including the spectacular Beaver Brook Falls . There’s a very complex and thorough network of trails here as well that penetrates deep into the woods.

You can drive to Great North Woods in Maine from New Hampshire via Highway 16 and pass some excellent scenery along the way. This area is one of the best places to visit in New England in the fall because of the spectacular foliage. Be careful of moose though! These giants will run into the road sometimes and seriously ruin your car.

Maine’s North Woods is expansive and is probably the most remote part of New England. It is, in fact, so out-there that certain counties like Aroostook are not even officially incorporated into the state and so have no “official populations.”

Stories of the wood’s frightful and fantastic inhabitants still circulate to this day as well, like that of the vengeful wendigo or of the murderous ding-balls.

Interior locations like Baxter State Park and Mt Katahdin are the most “accessible” places in Maine’s North Woods. Surrounding these is 100 Mile Wilderness , which is often visited by ACT hikers. If you want to travel further than these locations you may need a 4×4 as paved roads are no longer guaranteed.

If you can make it, the Allagash Wilderness is one of the great river adventures in America. Navigable only by canoe or raft, there is nothing out here besides moose, fish, and untouched landscapes.

A road trip through New England ain’t going to be cheap, folks. With the high costs of living and high demand, New England has some of the steepest hotel rates and dining prices in the USA.

That’s no reason not to visit New England in the first place though! You have us, after all. 🙂

We at The Broke Backpacker are constantly looking for new ways to save on travel and have a whole repertoire of useful tips to share with y’all. Even if we are unable to travel for $10/day like in our favorite countries (let’s be real here), we can at least help you minimize expenses to the utmost degree.

The average daily budget for a New England road trip is between $200-$250 – this includes gas, a rental car, lodging, food, drink, and entry fees.

On any road trip, New England or otherwise, the largest cost will be gas . This expense will always sneak up on you because it can be difficult to properly gauge how much you will actually use.

Lodging is also expensive in New England. Try and camp out as much as possible to lower your daily budget significantly. Take advantage of the cheaper public campsites and occasional backcountry site, which are sometimes free. Stay in hostels as well – they’re not so bad in New England.

Food costs are something you can control as you will have the option of cooking cheaply at home or the campsite. Dining is expensive in New England so be picky about how many lobsters you eat and clam bakes you attend.

Below is a breakdown of the average costs of a road trip in New England.

Average Costs of a New England Road Trip

Rental car : $50-$150

RV rental :  $100-$300

Gallon of gas:  $2.74

Private AirBnB home:  $140

Hotel room:  $150

Hostel:  $25-$35

Campground:  $10-30 (sometimes free!)

Sandwich:  $6-$9

Beer at a bar:  $5-$8

Coffee:  $3-$4

Bottle of Whiskey from the market:  $25

Dinner for two:  $35-$60

Best Places to Stay in New England on a Budget

Camping in new england.

Camping in New England is either done on public land, private land or in the backcountry . Each type offers different sorts of amenities and at different prices.

Private campgrounds usually have more amenities and can accommodate more types of campers. RV parks, hookup sites, and other sorts of demanding camping (we hesitate to use the word “glamping”) are usually found at private camps.

Private camps usually have lots of communal facilities like a kitchen and showers. Because of their greater comfort, private campgrounds are usually more expensive.

Camping on public land, run either by the state or the feds, is usually more basic. Electricity is possible as is the occasional shower but don’t expect the resort-like services that private campgrounds have. Fortunately, prices are far more reasonable at public campgrounds.

Both public and private campsites fill up quickly in the fall. Many take reservations though and we suggest you do this if you’re going on a fall foliage road trip in New England.

Backcountry campsites, being located on either private or public land, are harder to access but have the benefit of being extremely cheap if not totally free . These campgrounds usually require a hike or maybe a water taxi to reach, which makes them difficult and unattractive for the average camper.

The backcountry campgrounds are also very primitive, often with no restrooms and maybe running water. For the intrepid, these campgrounds can be very ideal as they’re super quiet, wild, and, as previously mentioned, usually free!

Backcountry campsites are usually found in the mountains, around the lakes, and on the remote islands of New England. Use this search engine for a compendium of free camping in New England .

Always have of plenty of powerful bug spray and mosquito repellent on you. Mosquitoes are a plague in the summer. Be sure to also wear long clothing to protect yourself from ticks when hiking in the backcountry. Local ticks often carry Lyme Disease, which is an autoimmune disorder with no cure.

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Renting a Car or Campervan in New England

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around New England. There are a myriad of car rental agencies here that offer varying deals and varying models.

To find the best rental car deal in the USA, use search engines that compare the prices from individual companies. We personally like using rentalcars.com as they’ve never failed to give us a great price.

You can also rent and travel in a campervan , which means you don’t have to worry about packing camping gear. You will have to empty and refill the various wascampete and water tanks though, which will require a visit to the proper facilities. RVs also cost more to rent, use more gas, and demand higher prices at campgrounds. We suggest booking a campervan with Outdoorsy as they usually have a good selection and good prices.

Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

The roads in the Northeast are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should deliver you to most of New England’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the Great North Woods, will the roads be so bad that you need 4×4 or at least high clearance.

If you’re on a road trip in New England during the winter and want to go to the mountains, you will definitely need all-wheel or 4-wheel drive.

Getting Insured for a Road Trip through New England

Concerned about staying safe in the USA? Well don’t be! Just make sure you’re insured, and you drive carefully.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

New England is no doubt one of the most idyllic regions of the US. Quaint coastal towns and some of the best foliage in the country are but two reasons to take a road trip here–but there are so many more.

Hopefully, you now feel more prepared on where to go and what to do on YOUR New England road trip.

But rest assured that regardless of which spots you’re bound to find beauty, history and a whole lot of delicious seafood.

So what are you waiting for? The open, rural roads of New England awaits!

Updated February 2023 by Samantha Shea

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Wow! great article and suggestions.

thank you for all of the advinces it helps, can t wait to visit New England Vermont Maine, xxx

Lake placid in the Adirondack Mountains also a try while stop. There are several private and New York State campgrounds nearby.

Thank you for mapping this all out. I live in New England and would love to visit many of these places.

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Just a guess but I think you'd find Providence and Newport RI more interesting as far as culture goes.

New Haven is (IMHO) super interesting, and well worth at least a few hours. Of course, it depends upon when you are there, and whether buildings at Yale are open. The museums and the large open spaces on the Yale campus should all be open this weekend. Yale is also famous for its pizza, but just so you know, you'll have to wait in line at the famous places (Pepe's is one . . . and I think the others I recall as Frank's, and "The Spot").

Also, there's a tour of the Yale campus, some lovely museums there as well. Newport is also a great place to stop on the way to Boston. It's a bit out of the way, but not as much as Cape Cod would be.

Other options: Mystic Seaport in CT. The USS Nautilus Museum in Groton CT (the Nautilus was the world's first nuclear submarine. It's on display there and you can tour it). The Connecticut River Museum in Essex, CT. where you can learn about all of New England's rich history, especially as regards Whaling.

https://www.ctrivermuseum.org/

https://www.mysticseaport.org/

http://louislunch.com/

https://visitorcenter.yale.edu/tours

https://artgallery.yale.edu/

http://www.ussnautilus.org/

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38 Best Stops Between Boston and Jersey City

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How long is the drive from Boston to Jersey City?

The direct drive from Boston to Jersey City is 222 mi (357 km) , and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 55 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Boston to Jersey City, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Bronx , Providence , Hartford , New Haven , Concord , Springfield , Worcester , and Flushing , as well as top places to visit like Mine Falls Park and North Bridge, or the ever-popular Minute Man National Historical Park.

Top cities between Boston and Jersey City

Springfield

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along Boston to Jersey City drive

Minute man national historical park.

Mine Falls Park

North bridge, gillette stadium, risd museum, roger williams park zoo, southwick's zoo, great wolf lodge water park | new england, worcester art museum, old sturbridge village, emily dickinson museum, mohegan sun, naismith basketball hall of fame, six flags new england preferred parking.

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Gillette Castle State Park

Essex steam train & riverboat, the mark twain house & museum, gouveia vineyards, lake compounce amusement & water park, long island aquarium, quassy amusement & waterpark, the bridgeport & port jefferson steamboat company, sagamore hill national historic site, jones beach state park.

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Frederic V. Malek West Point Visitors Center

New york botanical garden.

The Met Cloisters

Yankee Stadium

Other popular road trips from boston, explore nearby places.

• Jersey City
• Fort Hancock
• New York City
• West New York
• North Bergen
• Long Island City
• East Newark
• North Arlington
• Cliffside Park
• Jackson Heights

All related maps of Jersey City

• Map of Jersey City
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• Map of Fort Hancock
• Map of New York City
• Map of Brooklyn
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• Map of Weehawken
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• Map of Bayonne
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• Map of Guttenberg
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• Map of Cliffside Park
• Map of Lyndhurst
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Jersey City throughout the year

• Jersey City in January
• Jersey City in February
• Jersey City in March
• Jersey City in April
• Jersey City in May
• Jersey City in June
• Jersey City in July
• Jersey City in August
• Jersey City in September
• Jersey City in October
• Jersey City in November
• Jersey City in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Jersey City?

Get inspired for your trip to Jersey City with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Jersey City Itinerary
• 2-Day Jersey City Itinerary
• 3-Day Jersey City Itinerary
• 4-Day Jersey City Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from boston to jersey city.

Yes! You can drive from Boston to Jersey City.

How far is Jersey City from Boston by car?

The drive from Boston to Jersey City is 222 miles (357 km).

How long does it take to drive from Boston to Jersey City?

Driving from Boston to Jersey City should take you 3 hrs 55 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Boston to Jersey City?

Gas from Boston to Jersey City would cost around $19 to $45 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Boston to Jersey City?

You could check out Mine Falls Park and North Bridge, or the always popular Minute Man National Historical Park!

What are the best cities to visit between Boston and Jersey City?

People love visiting Bronx, Providence, and Hartford, among others.

What's the weather like in Boston?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Boston in January
• Weather in Boston in February
• Weather in Boston in March
• Weather in Boston in April
• Weather in Boston in May
• Weather in Boston in June
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• Weather in Boston in August
• Weather in Boston in September
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• Weather in Boston in November
• Weather in Boston in December

What are some other road trips from Boston?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Boston.

• Boston to New York City drive
• Boston to Washington DC drive
• Boston to Montreal drive
• Boston to Orlando drive
• Boston to Philadelphia drive
• Boston to Toronto drive
• Boston to Chicago drive
• Boston to Niagara Falls drive
• Boston to Newport drive
• Boston to Baltimore drive
• Boston to Quebec City drive
• Boston to New Orleans drive
• Boston to Portland drive
• Boston to Ogunquit drive
• Boston to Nashville drive
• Boston to Conway drive
• Boston to Ottawa drive
• Boston to Gatlinburg drive
• Boston to Atlanta drive
• Boston to Mystic drive
• Boston to Williamsburg drive
• Boston to Pittsburgh drive
• Boston to Savannah drive
• Boston to Cleveland drive
• Boston to Provincetown drive
• Boston to Atlantic City drive
• Boston to Charleston drive
• Boston to St. Augustine drive
• Boston to Gettysburg drive
• Boston to Miami Beach drive

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22 East Coast Destinations for a Road Trip

A summer road trip is always a good idea, and there are so many options to choose from on the East Coast. There are plenty of great destinations within driving distance of Hudson County, with choices for everyone from animal lovers, history buffs , wine aficionados, sports fans, and more. All that’s needed after HG’s recommendations are an excellent road trip playlist and the driver’s choice of road trip snacks. Read on for your guide to East Coast destinations that are ideal for a summer road trip, ordered by state from North to South.

Maine is chock full of things to do and places to explore. It makes sense that the farther North you travel, the more beautiful sweeping landscapes there are to discover.

Portland | 5-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Portland is Maine’s biggest city by population and offers plenty of art, history, and food to experience. We recommend kicking off a Portland tour in Old Port, full of beautiful historic buildings and cobblestone streets, perfect for a stroll and a meal at one of its many restaurants. And speaking of restaurants, you simply cannot cross the state lines of Maine without ordering a lobster roll to devour on the coast. Andy’s Old Port Pub, located at 94 Commercial Street, is arguably the best one in town.

If you’re looking for something to wash that lobster roll down with, head over to Allagash Brewery, a great local spot with plenty of outdoor space to enjoy a flight. If you’re worried about Fido, don’t be — it’s dog-friendly ! Wrap up your time in Portland with a little art and history at the Portland Museum of Art, located at 7 Congress Street. This museum is the largest and oldest public art institution in the entire state so whether you’re into art or just plan on wandering aimlessly around, it’s a can’t-miss destination.

Read More: 16 New Jersey Towns for a Fun Summer Day Trip

Bar Harbor + Acadia National Park | 8-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are two Maine destinations that often go hand-in-hand. If you’re looking for a day full of hiking, Cadillac Mountain’s trails are second to none, with sweeping views of the Maine coastline. However, if you’re more of the laid-back active type, Jordan Pond is for you. The old carriage roads you’ll encounter are beyond charming and *pro tip* — the popovers at Jordan Pond House Restaurant, located at 2928 Park Loop Road, are out of this world. It is definitely worth the stop for these crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, pastries with a side of tea and jam.

Maine is known for killer lobster rolls and, you guessed it, beer. Stop at another Maine brewery, Atlantic Brewing Co., located at 15 Knox Road, for a pint. There you can take a tour of the brewery and then taste the classic beers. For those who prefer vino over beer, Bar Harbor Cellars Winery, located at 854 ME-3 is the place to go. This spot offers wine tasting experiences and be sure to pick up a bottle of your favorite on the way out.

Kennebunkport | 4-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Unlike other Maine beach towns with rock-filled coasts, Kennebunkport offers long, smooth beaches to relax on and soak up the sun. Not only is this town pretty as a postcard, but it also contains the famous compound of President Bush. Walk along the coast and take a peek from afar at the gorgeous development.

Kennebunkport is also home to many artists and galleries that show pieces of art you’ll definitely want to take home as a keepsake. Explore Homeport Pottery and Artisans Gallery, located at 131 Beachwood Avenue, Northlight Gallery located at 33 Ocean Avenue, and more. Make sure your camera is ready as you stroll around because this Maine town will not disappoint.

New Hampshire

The next East Coast destination is New Hampshire. Though much smaller in size than Maine, New Hampshire is bursting with a variety of landscapes to choose from. If you’re looking to get outdoors and stay active, New Hampshire is your state.

Concord + Manchester | 4-hour, 20-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Concord is a charming little town that just so happens to be the capital of New Hampshire and Manchester is the largest city in the state, but the two are so close to one another that the combination offers a perfect blend of the small-town and big-city vibe for a weekend getaway. Concord is often associated with orchards and farms galore so if you visit, Carter Hill Orchard, located at 73 Carter Hill Road; Dimond Hill Farm, located at 314 Hopkinton Road; and Apple Hill Farm, located at 580 Mountain Road, are few of our favorites. Of course, if we’re talking about apple cider, we wouldn’t dare leave out the hard libations. Concord is home to the Concord Craft Brewing Company, located at 117 Storrs Street, and Litherman’s Limited Brewery, located at 126 Hall Street Suite B.

Manchester brings more of the city vibe to balance out Concord’s small-town feel. If you’re feeling artsy, stop by the Currier Museum of Art, located at 150 Ash Street. Wash down your day of culture at Manchester’s 2nd Bridge Brewing Company located at 642 Hilliard Street or Labyrinth Brewing Company located at 148 Forest Street before heading home.

Lake Winnipesaukee | 5-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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This famous NH lake is the sixth-largest in the country. The lake’s beaches are perfect for relaxing in the sun or for the more active, swimming and sailing are a few of the water sports you can take advantage of on Lake Winnipesaukee in the summer.

White Mountain National Forest | 6-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Arguably one of the most popular destinations in all of NH, White Mountain National Forest is home to endless hiking trails , wild species, and views galore. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, it is worth the few hours of driving. Be sure to bring your camera and stop at the ranger station before beginning an excursion because they will fill you in on all of the things to keep an eye out for on your trek.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state that everyone yearns to visit in the summer. With every type of scenery from picturesque islands — think Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket — boasting sailboats and beautiful hydrangea bushes to a city with an old, cobblestone street vibe, you can do and see it all in MA, and you may even consider taking more than just one weekend to do so.

Boston | 3-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Visitors would be remiss to visit Massachusetts without at least passing through the bustling city of Boston . Boston is a city with old-time charm and a lot of history. As you walk through the town you encounter cobblestone streets, old buildings, and the waterfront of the harbor. Be sure not to miss iconic stops like Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox located at 4 Jersey Street; Quincy Market, located 206 South Market Street in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace; and Boston Public Garden located at 4 Charles Street for gorgeous park views.

For a little retail therapy, Newbury Street is bursting with designer shops and quaint brownstones that will have you strolling for hours, not to mention, great brunch spots can be stumbled upon as well. For the history buffs out there, pick up a map of the Freedom Trail for a self-guided history lesson. And speaking of history, Castle Island is an amazing landmark off the coast of South Boston.

Before leaving this incredible city, be sure to check out more incredible New England breweries based in Boston. Of course, the well-known Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, located at 30 Germania Street, is a must-see. If you’re in the mood for incredible craft beers and deliciously fluffy pretzels made from the actual hops of the beer, then Harpoon Brewery located at 306 Northern Avenue is the brewery for you. And finally, if you’re more of a cider-lover, Downeast Cider House, located at 256 Marginal Street #32, is a refreshingly tasty stop to conclude a day of Boston adventure.

Cape Cod | 4-hour, 15-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Known for the beach, this seaside town is the perfect place for fun in the sun. The Cape Cod National Seashore boasts over 40,000 acres of protected shorelines for you to enjoy so lather up on sunscreen, pack up your cooler, and hit the beach.

Martha’s Vineyard | 5-hour, 20-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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While Martha’s Vineyard does offer day trips from Boston, we recommend spending more than just an afternoon for a visit. Grab your camera for snapshots of sights like the Edgartown Lighthouse, located at 121 North Water Street, the Flying Horses Carousel located at 33 Lake Avenue, and even the furry creatures over at the Island Alpaca Company of Martha’s Vineyard, located at 1 Head of the Pond Road, Oak Bluffs. Seafood lovers can dine out on the water at a local favorite like Garde East, located at 52 Beach Road; Lucky Hank’s, located at 218 Upper Main Street; and The Seafood Shanty located at 31 Dock Street.

Nantucket | 6-hour, 30 minute trip from Hoboken + Jersey City

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A ferry ride to this picturesque island makes for a scenic end to the drive. This town is full of talented artists so visit one of its museums like the Whaling Museum at 13 Broad Street.

Of course, since Nantucket is an island, there are beaches galore. Hit the Madaket Beach, Surfside Beach, or Siasconset Beach and stare in awe at the many lighthouses Nantucket has to offer, namely the Brant Point and the Great Point Lighthouses. Conclude your day of beaching it with a cold one at Cisco Brewers at 5 Bartlett Farm Road. Sightsee, beach, beer, repeat.

Rhode Island

Newport | 3-hour, 15-minute drive from hoboken + jersey city.

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Possibly best known for its timeless mansions, the Cliff Walk is a must-see upon entering Newport. Beautiful estates like the Breakers at 44 Ochre Point Avenue; Rosecliff at 584 Bellevue Avenue; The Elms at 367 Bellevue Avenue and more are available for walking tours . You can purchase tickets for one or multiple estates at the Breakers upon arrival and you can walk or drive amongst each one. Along the Cliff Walk, you will also pass the beautiful Salve Regina University.

New York (Upstate)

Yes, we’re a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC but New York is a massive state and when you enter upstate NY, it’s like a whole new world from the concrete jungle we know and love. Full of quaint small towns with boutiques and beautiful scenery, Upstate NY is not a destination to be missed.

New Paltz | 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

New Paltz is a HG  favorite, all starting with the quaint Watergrasshill Bed and Breakfast at 105 Phillies Bridge Road. This B&B, named after an old Irish town, is the perfect place to stay for either a romantic getaway or a fun weekend with pals. While in town, you might consider buying a day pass to hike the Mohonk Preserve trails, all leading up to one breathtaking peak. After a fun-filled day of hiking, visit the famous Angry Orchard Cider House, located at 2241 Albany Post Road in Walden, NY for crisp ciders, tons of outdoor seating space, and food trucks galore. Also, the cider donuts made on-site are unreal.

A trip to New Paltz is not complete without walking the famous Huguenot Street. You can stop for cocktails at Huckleberry, located at 21 Church Street, dine outside, do a little antique shopping, and grab a scoop at Huguenot Creamery at 78 Main Street to end the night.

Saratoga Springs | 3-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Saratoga is most notably known for the Saratoga Race Course, located at 267 Union Avenue. Even if a race isn’t happening during a visit, it’s worth making the trip to walk around the massive grounds. During the summer, the Saratoga Farmer’s Market is in full swing, making for the perfect summer activity. And of course, the sweeping hills of New York contain many well-known wineries and Saratoga is no exception. If you’re feeling in the mood for a glass of vino, wrap your trip up at The Saratoga Winery located at 462 Route 29.

Connecticut

Connecticut is a popular destination as part of the tri-state area because it’s a quick trip from Hudson County and offers a variety of landscapes, things to do, and towns to visit.

New Haven | 1-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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This Connecticut city plays host to the prestigious Yale University, a gorgeous campus to stroll around on. And with the campus comes the Yale University Art Gallery at 1111 Chapel Street to add a touch of culture to your trip. New Haven is bursting with parks and greens to take advantage of in the summer (or fall for the best photo opportunities) and nestled amongst them is the breathtaking Five Mile Point Lighthouse, located at 2 Lighthouse Road, a must-see in town. End the day with a meal at one of New Haven’s finest restaurants. For farm-to-table fare, try ZINC at 964 Chapel Street, for an Italian meal at a wine bar, Skappo at 59 Crown Street; or for an upscale French dinner, Union League Cafe is the way to go at 1032 Chapel Street.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is known for its popular cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh , which contain a ton of historical value and things to do. However, PA is quite a large state so where you end up visiting may depend on how far you’re willing to travel.

Philadelphia | 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Philadelphia is one of the first spots to come to mind when we think of Pennsylvania, and the list of things to do in this city does not disappoint. Philadelphia certainly has no shortage of sports teams to route on from football to hockey to baseball and more. If you enjoy living on the edge, Eastern State Penitentiary at 2124 Fairmount Avenue is a popular tourist attraction, standing hauntingly empty where there once used to be a prison.

And for the Rocky fans out there, the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway plays host to yes, art, but more importantly, the famous steps that debuted in the Rocky films. Whether you’re going for a run-up and down them or actually using them to spend the day in the museum, they are an iconic Philly sight. For lunch or dinner plans, pay a visit to the Reading Terminal Market at 1136 Arch Street, which features over 80 food vendors.

Pittsburgh | 5-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Pittsburgh simply doesn’t get enough credit for living in the limelight of Philadelphia as “the other major city in PA” but this city has a lot to offer. From sports like football and hockey to the famous Pittsburgh Zoo at 7370 Baker Street, there is truly something for everyone. Pittsburgh is also known for its second-to-none food scene. Enjoy dining outdoors at fantastic spots like Noodlehead at 242 South Highland Avenue, Point Brugge Cafe at 401 Hastings Street, and so many more.

Delaware is a tiny state but again, one that is full of culture. Enter Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach — two of Delaware’s most-known cities that are both just a few hours away from Hudson County.

Rehoboth Beach | 3-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean side of the Delmarva Peninsula, Rehoboth Beach provides both fun in the sun (including a boardwalk) as well as city amenities, such as a movie theatre, restaurants, and shopping. Surrounding towns like Lewes and Dewey Beach are also fun to check out. If you’re looking to do some hiking, walking, or biking, head to Cape Henlopen State Park located at 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive in Lewes. For the shopping enthusiasts, there are three Tanger outlet locations located on Coastal Highway in Rehoboth with every store you can imagine. For coffee and breakfast fare, stop by Rise Up Coffee at 502 Rehoboth Avenue or The Point Coffee Shop + Bakery at 37140 Rehoboth Avenue Ext. When it’s time for dinner, head to Crabby Dick’s at 18831 Coastal Highway (we recommend the crab cakes and corn balls), Stop N Go Taco at 37229 Rehoboth Avenue, or Saketumi at 18814 Coastal Highway.

Wilmington | 2-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Wilmington is a city that has never-ending sites to see. For starters, the Nemours Estate at 1600 Rockland Road will transport you to France and make you feel as if you’re standing in the Chateau de Versailles garden. Exercise the cultural part of your brain by visiting the Hagley Museum and Library at 200 Hagley Creek Road, the Delaware Children’s Museum at 550 Justison Street, or the Delaware Art Museum at 2301 Kentmere Parkway. For those who are more active and looking to be outside, explore the Wilmington Riverwalk at 0 North Market Street, Bellevue State Park at 800 Carr Road, or the Brandywine Park and Zoo at 1001 North Park Drive.

Maryland is a very well-known destination for us New Jerseyans. Known not only for its city of Baltimore, home of the Orioles for all you baseball fans or the Ravens for the football fans out there, but Maryland is also full of beaches, which you may not have known before reading this article.

Baltimore | 3-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Baltimore is another city that is full of history and the fact that it’s located right on a harbor is even better. Fort McHenry and Fell’s Point are two locales that offer up historical tidbits around every corner. Baltimore is also known for the National Aquarium at 501 East Pratt Street, which is considered to be one of the best in the world. Conclude your trip to this Maryland town with an outdoor dining reservation at one of the harbor’s favorite restaurants such as McCormick + Schmick’s Seafood + Steaks at 711 Eastern Avenue or Phillips Seafood at 601 East Pratt Street.

Ocean City | 4-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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The Ocean City beach and boardwalk are by far the biggest draw of this Maryland town. Enjoy a beautiful day on the beach riding the waves and end it on the boardwalk where you can eat, play, and stroll. Don’t even think about leaving this beach town without hitting up Thrasher’s Fries on the boardwalk, finished off with an ice cream cone at one of the many creamery destinations. Later on, hit up the Seacrets Distilling Company at 111 49th Street for hand-crafted spirits that will certainly lift yours.

Washington D.C. | 3-hour, 40-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Of course, D.C. is not a state of its own but it is a territory that is quite well-known because, well, it’s the capital of our country . With that comes endless opportunities to brush up on history and politics.

Pretty self-explanatory, this destination is technically not a state but contains just as much to do as anywhere else on this list. Obviously, if you’re in our nation’s capital and have yet to see these sights, stopping by the White House, The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and National WWII Memorial are a must. D.C. also plays host to museums of all types. The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History at 10th Street and Constitution Avenue holds the world’s most extensive collection of natural history specimens, the United States Holocaust Museum at 100 Raoul Wallenberg Plaza SW is a living memorial to the Holocaust. While these are just our recommendations, you could walk around this city all day and never run out of things to do or see.

See More: A Day Trip to Cold Spring, NY: A Hudson River Village

Virginia is the most southern state we’ll be taking you to in this guide and there are plenty of destinations to make the trek worth it. VA is home to a variety of city types but we feel that Williamsburg has it all — history, culture, family fun, and more.

Williamsburg | 5-hour, 50-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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The last stop on the East Coast destination tour, but certainly not the least. While Williamsburg is great for all ages if you have younger kids you really can’t go wrong here. This town is an extremely interactive way to engage your little ones in the rich history of our country. If you don’t already know, Williamsburg served as the capital of the Colony and Commonwealth of Virginia from 1699 to 1780 and acted as the center of political events leading to the American Revolution. That being said, Colonial Williamsburg is a must-see during your trip. You will be transported back in time through “townspeople” willing to tell their stories and include you in interactive experiences that tell a tale of Williamsburg long ago. If you want to stay away from a day full of history, Busch Gardens makes for a great, fun-filled day of amusement for the whole family.

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Alexa Martin

More stories, 10 hoboken + jersey city locals to watch in may 2024, icymi: ‘the hoboken girl’ breakfast sandwich is now permanent on the alessio’s menu, the devan: jersey city’s newest residence building with endless amenities, a guide to authentic mexican restaurants in hoboken + jersey city, this former hoboken resident created a hand-drawn map of the mile square, 147 events in hoboken + jersey city this weekend | may 2-5, 2024.

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New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Stunning Stops

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 23, 2021

There are many places in the world you can see leaves turn in Autumn, but they pale in comparison to one famed and celebrated region in the US northeast where science, nature and climate combine to put on an extraordinary light show each year. We are of course talking about fabled New England and we’re going to show you 10 places you can’t miss when planning your New England fall foliage road trip, with 5 day itinerary, 7 day itinerary and 10 day itinerary examples included to help you nail down the best possible route for your trip.

We will use our first hand experiences from road tripping New England in fall to bring you tips, advice and unmissable stops to take on your visit. This is one of those true bucket list USA road trip experiences in which it pays to be organized, plan effectively and make the most of every day.

So, let’s get stuck into those 10 unmissable stops and planning your perfect New England fall foliage road trip itinerary!

The Science Behind Fall Colors

What do we know about the changing of colors to give ourselves the best chance of being in the right place at the right time?

Well, we know that fall colors peak furthest north and work southward through the latitudes. So for example, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina is gorgeous in fall, but the colors won’t change there until much later in the season.

Also, we know elevation plays an important role in when peak colors will be on display. Colors will change first in mountainous regions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont before they do at lower elevations.

But the most important aspects are weather conditions leading into Autumn, and amount of daylight. It all starts way back in Spring! A late Spring or intense Summer drought can potentially delay peak fall colors by a week or two.

Conditions Affecting Predictions For Peak Fall Colors

In addition to elevation, latitude and weather conditions before fall, there are more specific conditions that can affect peak fall once we actually reach Autumn:

• Soil moisture levels
• Amount of sunlight during the day
• Length of night
• Day and night temperature (important)

So what would constitute as perfect conditions for the best chance at ‘peak’ fall colors being their most radiant and predictable?

• Wet and warm Spring conditions
• Summer without drought or unusually high / low temperatures
• Warm Autumn days and cool but not freezing nights

And what causes the colors to change once conditions are right?

Sunlight pumps leaves full of chlorophyll during Spring and Summer. Once daylight wanes in Autumn, so does the amount of chlorophyll.

That leaves room for other pigments in the leaves, such as anthocyanin and carotenoids to shine.

Why Focus On VT, NH, ME and Even NY

The region of New England technically contains 6 states; Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. In fall, this entire region transforms into an adventure playground for leaf-peeping lovers and passionate photographers.

However, there are three New England states among the six that we feel just have to be prioritized for the very best scenery and most radiant colors; New Hampshire, Maine and in particular Vermont.

But we’re also going to throw a curve ball by including a region not technically part of New England (gasp!) … New York’s Adirondack Mountains are a stone’s throw from the border with Vermont and the colors are just as special.

We want you to see the best places in New England when you take your fall road trip, but we would prefer you to see the best colors. That means skipping the likes of Boston, Portland and Providence on this particular visit to the northeast.

They’re all awesome places and we visited them all on our New England road trip in fall. But they don’t have the colors of rural Vermont and New Hampshire, plus we had days to spare.

Here’s why you should focus on the northern parts of New England for a fall foliage road trip:

Vermont’s rolling hills are overflowing with charming rural towns, barns and covered bridges. But the state is 80% covered in forest and that can only mean one thing; spectacular fall foliage everywhere you look.

Further Reading: The best places to visit in Vermont

New Hampshire

New Hampshire mixes excellent hiking options in stunning mountainous areas with staggeringly beautiful fall foliage colors.

It also has one of the best mini road trip routes in New England during fall – the Kancamagus Highway.

Maine is huge. It is much bigger than the other New England states and that means it’s hard to fit most of the northern parts in to your road trip. Unless you have more than 2 weeks of course.

However, Acadia National Park is one of the very best places you can visit in all of New England in fall so if you have the spare time, it’s hard to skip.

New York’s Adirondack Mountains, including Winter olympic town Lake Placid and its surroundings are beautiful in Autumn. The popular mountainous region is incredibly popular thanks to a host of activities and of course glorious foliage colors.

When Should You Plan Your New England Road Trip For Peak Fall Colors?

It is impossible to plan the perfect ‘peak’ fall road trip itinerary in New England. You would need to be in many places at the same time for that to be possible. We’re not quite there, yet!

Historically, the last 2 weeks of September and the first 2 weeks of October are when the colors change. So that would put October 1st in the middle of that and therefore a ‘peak’ fall foliage target.

Science tells us that colors change in the North and at elevation first, eventually working South and to lower levels.

We’ll get into example itineraries below, but here are some rough dates to use for each itinerary time frame working North to South:

• 5 Day New England Fall Road Trip – We would suggest aiming for September 29 through October 3.
• 7 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day either side, so September 28 through October 4.
• 10 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day before and two after, so September 27 through October 6.
• 14 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day before and three after, so September 26 through October 9.

Should You Book Your Trip In Advance?

Here are two scenarios:

• You don’t book in advance and keep an eye on live fall foliage updates to guarantee hitting peak fall. This also means you have flexibility on bad weather days. However, there are very limited hotels available and those that do have rooms will be more expensive.
• You plan and book your whole trip in advance, getting good value in hotels and can relax. But there’s a chance you won’t time it just right and you will have to deal with whatever weather comes your way.

We can’t offer a ‘better’ solution here because both have pros and cons.

Our trip was mainly booked in advance which meant we spent less but we had to put up with a lot of disappointing rain days, as you will see in the photos below!

Need a hand planning your New England fall road trip? Our popular 40+ page New England Fall Road Trip Guidebook includes the 10 best places to visit, 8 example itineraries ranging from 5-14 days and an extensive interactive map to help you plan a successful leaf-peeping vacation.

Top Tips For Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, before we jump into the 10 unmissable stops and the New England fall road trip itineraries, let’s have a quick look at some important tips to consider when planning your vacation:

• New England is insanely popular in fall.
• Booking accommodation in advance will save you a lot of money.
• Carefully plan where you want to spend each night based around hikes and photography.
• Start in the North and work South through New England.
• Expect frequent rain and clouds in fall and accept that there’s nothing you can do about it!
• Always carry loads of water and snacks in the car.
• Try to find elevated vantage points as often as possible.
• Some of the best and most unique fall photos are along rural country roads.
• You need multiple spare batteries for your camera!
• You can use a drone in many parts of New England for aerial photography.
• Don’t worry if you miss ‘peak’ colors.

Our popular road trip resources:

• Road trip packing list essentials
• How to plan the perfect road trip

10 Places You Can’t Miss On The Best New England Fall Road Trip

Let’s take a closer look at the 10 stops we think are unmissable on a first New England trip to see the fall colors.

1. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid of 1980 Winter Olympics ‘Miracle on Ice’ fame is located at the heart of New York’s revered Adirondack Mountains. It is the perfect base for adventure activities throughout all four seasons, from hiking in Summer to skiing in Winter.

The charming town of Lake Placid is an incredibly popular centralized location for leaf peeping in the Adirondacks. As a result, hotels here are in high demand and not cheap from the end of September until mid October. We know from experience when our bank balance took a mighty hit!

Walk around Mirror Lake in town for the easiest way to soak up gorgeous fall colors. If you have time and enjoy challenging hikes, you can’t miss Mount Marcy. It isn’t the prettiest trail but it is the tallest peak in New York.

Things To Do In Lake Placid, NY

• Take a relaxing walk around serene Mirror Lake.
• Visit the Olympic ski jumping complex.
• Photograph John Brown barn.
• Drive to the summit of Whiteface Mountain.
• Take the Cloud Splitter cable car to Little Whiteface.
• Walk through picturesque High Falls Gorge.
• Hike Mount Marcy, the tallest peak in New York.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Lake Placid, NY

• Mirror Lake in town is gorgeous, walk through residential areas surrounded by colorful trees.
• John Brown barn is a hidden gem for fall colors.
• The top of the ski jump provides sweeping views over the Adirondacks.
• Mount Marcy summit is the highest point in the entire region, providing the best views over rolling hills.
• Whiteface Mountain and Little Whiteface offer more stunning views of fall foliage.

Read our Lake Placid guides for more information:

• 10 best things to do in Lake Placid NY
• Mount Marcy complete hiking walkthrough
• 8 best hotels in Lake Placid NY

2. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington in Vermont might not be the first place you think of for a New England fall foliage road trip destination. However, it is one of the easiest places outside of Boston to fly into the region if you are visiting from further afield.

The small town also happens to be filled with beautiful and radiant foliage colors at every turn. From lakeside bike paths to park towers with stunning views, Burlington is the perfect stop off between Lake Placid and the more famous foliage destination of Stowe.

Hotels in downtown Burlington can be limited and expensive in Autumn, so if you are visiting New England on a budget, try looking for hotels in surrounding villages and towns.

Things To Do In Burlington, VT

• Eat, drink and soak up the atmosphere along Church Street.
• Walk through Waterfront Park alongside Lake Champlain.
• Cycle the Burlington bike path to Grand Isle.
• Explore Ethan Allen Homestead and Museum.
• Stand on top of Ethan Allen Tower for amazing views.
• Taste chocolate at Lake Champlain Chocolates flagship store.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Burlington, VT

• Anywhere along the Lake Champlain waterfront where there are trees.
• Ethan Allen Park and the top of the tower in particular have the best fall foliage views in Burlington.
• Ethan Allen homestead and museum are surrounded by beautifully colorful trees.

Read more about Burlington:

• 10 best things to do in Burlington VT
• 8 best hotels in Burlington VT

3. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is one of the unmissable fall foliage classics on any New England road trip. The white church in town is one of the most photographed churches in the US and almost all of those photographs are taken in fall.

The town is quaint and attractive but be sure to spend the majority of your time up in Stowe Mountain Resort. This is where you will find hikes, Mt Mansfeld, waterfalls and Smugglers Notch.

Colors will change first up in the higher elevations. So, if you’re a little early, head up to the resort. On the other hand, if you’re a little late, stick to the lower elevations around Stowe town for the most vibrant colors.

Personally, we love to hike, we like flying our drone and we enjoy photographing waterfalls. Stowe was one of the best stops on our New England fall road trip circuit for allowing us to do all of those things.

Things To Do In Stowe, VT

• Photograph the famous white church in Stowe town.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield.
• Drive through stunning Smugglers Notch pass.
• Ride a bike along Stowe Rec Path or Lamoille Valley.
• Take the SkyRide Gondola to Mt Mansfield.
• Hike a wide range of awesome trails.
• Visit both Bingham Falls and Moss Glen Falls.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Stowe, VT

• In Stowe town, the iconic white church backed by a hill of fall colors is unmissable on your New England road trip.
• But the best colors are in Stowe Mountain Resort. The drive up from town is gorgeous.
• No matter how you get to the top of Mt Mansfield, you can guarantee spectacular fall foliage views.
• Smugglers Notch is our top recommendation for Stowe. If you have a drone, this is the place to fly.

Read more about Stowe, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Stowe VT
• 12 best hotels in Stowe VT

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock in central Vermont is arguably the most picturesque and charming town you will visit on your New England fall road trip itinerary. It truly is like something out of a fairytale. We had no choice but to include Woodstock in our popular guide to the 50 best places to visit in the USA .

Remarkably pretty farms with golden leaves dancing in sunlight and reddish-brown leaves covering the ground create picture perfect scenes. Sleepy Hollow Farm and Jenne Road Farm are featured on many fall foliage calendars you will see in shops on your visit to New England.

Don’t miss the many stunning historic covered bridges around Woodstock. Middle covered bridge is right in town, Taftsville and Quechee are very close by and Cornish-Windsor is a 30 minute drive. The beautiful bridge in the photo below is a privately owned bridge near South Woodstock on the main road to Jenne Farm.

Woodstock is one of the more expensive places to visit on a road trip through Vermont, but it is worth taking a hit on the extra chunk of budget. Simply driving around the narrow country roads near Woodstock for a few hours would provide enough fall foliage colors to last a week of photography.

Things To Do In Woodstock, VT

• Walk around the charming town and admire diverse architectural styles.
• Photograph two postcard perfect farms – Jenne Road Farm and Sleep Hollow Farm.
• Visit a host of historic and stunning covered bridges.
• Explore Marsh Billings Rockefeller Park and hike to amazing viewpoint overlooking Woodstock.
• Visit nearby Quechee Gorge and village.
• See Jersey dairy cows at Billings Farm and Museum.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Woodstock, VT

• Woodstock is incredibly photogenic during fall throughout the town and immediate surroundings.
• The lookout over Woodstock from Mount Tom hike is iconic fall photography.
• The best two fall photographs in Woodstock are at Jenne Road Farm and Sleepy Hollow Farm. They are two truly unmissable stops on your New England fall road trip itinerary.
• Drive your car around the narrow rural roads near Woodstock for some of the most special colors.

Read more about Woodstock, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Woodstock VT
• 7 best hotels in Woodstock VT

5. Manchester, Vermont

Similarly to Stowe, Manchester is a four season resort with skiing in Winter and hikes during Spring or Summer. In fall, the town located in the heart of Green Mountain National Forest transitions into a colorful paradise for leaf-peepers.

Manchester can be split into the old historic district and the newer modern resort town. The newer part is livelier and closer to amenities but the historic district is quieter, prettier and more colorful.

Use Manchester as a base for one night to explore nearby elevated areas for some of the most expansive views of rolling hills on a New England fall road trip.

Equinox Mountain is the tallest peak in the area. You can hike it or drive it to open up far-reaching views over three US states. But our top tip is to simply stick to the narrow country roads again and you will find more unique fall foliage photographs.

Things To Do In Manchester, VT

• Drive the Skyline Auto Toll Road to Mount Equinox summit.
• Explore Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home.
• Walk around quaint Manchester Historic Village District.
• See the American Museum of Fly Fishing Museum exhibits.
• Buy a book in popular Northshire bookstore.
• Visit nearby covered bridges.
• See the Bennington Battle Monument.
• Visit Robert Frost stone house museum.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Manchester, VT

• Manchester is the heart of the Green Mountains, so the entire area surrounding the town is staggeringly attractive.
• Rolling hills for endless miles covered in glowing fall colors can be seen from any elevated vantage point.
• Equinox Mountain summit provides the best panoramic views over three states.
• Another place you jump in the car and find unique fall photography opportunities on rural roads.
• Manchester Historic Village District is leafy and the church is surrounded by golden yellow leaves.

Read more about Manchester, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Manchester VT
• 9 best hotels in Manchester VT

6. Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

Franconia Notch is one of New Hampshire’s premier tourist regions for hiking, picturesque mountains, skiing and of course fall foliage. A two lane highway mountain pass dissects the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges, with a number of fantastic recreational stops along the way.

Artists Bluff is a very short but steep hike leading to a rocky ledge. Its summit overlooks Echo Lake and is most popular in fall when the colors change. As you can see, we hiked the trail on an incredibly cloudy and grey day, which doesn’t help with highlighting the beauty of this viewpoint. We have included Artists Bluff in our popular guide to the 50 best hikes in the US .

Franconia Notch State Park is where you will find the stunning Flume Gorge hike. A little over 2 miles of waterfalls, narrow gorges and forested paths welcome thousands of visitors each year. For us, the best part of Flume Gorge were the two ultra-photogenic covered bridges; Flume and Sentinel Pine.

Things To Do In Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

• Hike the short but steep trail to Artists Bluff summit for stunning views.
• Walk through impressive and extremely popular Flume Gorge.
• Hike Cannon Mountain or take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
• See a whole host of waterfalls or hike one of a dozen other mountain trails.
• Ski Cannon Mountain Resort in Winter.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

• The single most well known fall foliage photograph in Franconia Notch NH is from the summit of Artists Bluff.
• However, don’t miss the chance to walk through the incredibly picturesque Flume Gorge in fall.
• Not only are the colors vibrant, but waterfalls are attractive and two special covered bridges are incredibly photogenic.
• Anywhere at elevation, which means every hike up a mountain side or the tramway with sweeping valley views.

Read more in our Franconia Notch guides:

• Artists Bluff Trail Fall Foliage Hike
• Flume Gorge Complete Hiking Walkthrough

7. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s supremely scenic Kancamagus Highway is one of the very best parts of New England to road trip in fall foliage season. We would put it firmly in the category of ‘unmissable’.

The road between Lincoln and Conway NH is only 35 miles long, but it 35 miles of pure foliage bliss. You can either drive it in one go and simply soak up the colors roadside. Or you can stop at a multitude of overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes and covered bridges.

If there’s one part of your New England road trip itinerary to time it right for peak foliage colors, you would do well to beat the Kancamagus Highway in its prime.

A note for photographers and videographers – You can use your drone in many parts of the Kancamagus Highway. We captured amazing photographs and videos of endless miles over rolling hills covered in radiant color.

Things To Do On Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

• Stop at various high elevation overlooks with spectacular views over White Mountain National Forest.
• Walk to Sabbaday Falls, Champney Falls and Lower Falls.
• Hike Lincoln Woods or Mount Chocorua.
• Walk out on Rocky Gorge boulders.
• Photograph Russell-Colbath House and the picture perfect Albany Covered Bridge.
• Explore ponds and lakes to your hearts content.

Where To See Fall Foliage On Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

• Views over rolling hills from every overlook are astonishing in fall.
• Once the Kancamagus Highway reaches its highest elevation, you will see an ocean of color in all directions.
• Walk through any forest trail or along any waterfall hike to immerse yourself into those foliage colors.
• Albany covered bridge is one of the most picturesque bridges you will find in New England.
• Rocky Gorge and nearby lake with reflecting fall colors are wonderful.
• Even on both ends of the road in Lincoln (Loon Mountain) and Conway the colors are vibrant.

Read more about the Kancamagus Highway:

• 13 best places to stop along the Kancamagus Highway in fall

8. Mount Washington, New Hampshire

At 6,288 ft tall, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in Northeastern United States. It is renowned for wild and unpredictable weather, including the recording of a world record wind speed over over 230 mph.

As our images indicate, Mount Washington can be very wet and cloudy in Autumn. But if you get slightly more luck on your road trip and time it on a sunny day, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful colors and scenery in the entire region.

Avid hikers can climb to the summit, otherwise you can take a historic cog rail train or drive up an auto toll road to reach the top. Views from almost 2,000 meters high over an ocean of bright colors are incredible.

Things To Do Around Mount Washington, New Hampshire

• Hike a very challenging but rewarding trail to the summit of Mount Washington.
• Consider a night hike, fall colors won’t matter in the dark but it is hugely popular for astro and sunrise photography.
• Alternatively, drive the Mt Washington Auto Road to the summit.
• Or, take the most scenic and historic route to the top – by Cog Railway.
• Conway scenic railroad nearby ventures deep into fall foliage forest.
• Endless miles of hiking, 100 waterfalls and a handful of covered bridges to discover.
• Crawford Notch State Park is close by and features more views, hikes and waterfalls.

Where To See Fall Foliage Around Mount Washington, New Hampshire

• Just gain elevation in the White Mountains and you’ll open up valley views with a sea of foliage colors.
• Mt Washington summit is the iconic NH vantage point for sweeping Autumnal vistas.
• For a unique experience, the Conway Scenic Railroad cuts through some of the best colors in NH.
• Crawford Notch State Park is stunning in fall, with fantastic valley views from hikes.

9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Heading due South of Mt Washington you will find Lake Winnipesaukee encircled by gorgeous fall foliage colors. Unfortunately for us, the rain was back in full swing but you can still see how vibrant the colors are in this area.

You can drive an 81 mile loop road around the entirety of the lake, or take to the waters aboard M/S Mount Washington cruise boat.

Visit Castle in the Clouds for family entertainment and hiking, Weirs Beach for arcades or Wolfeboro for a more relaxing experience. The most popular trail in the area is Mount Major, which we highly recommend for hikers looking for excellent views over the lake.

Things To Do Around Around Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

• Take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington.
• Or rent a boat of your own for the day.
• Ride the Lake Winnipesaukee scenic railroad.
• Try your hand at arcade games in Weirs Beach.
• Hike the popular half day trail to Mount Major summit for fantastic lake views.

Where To See Fall Foliage Around Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

• Elevation is your fall foliage friend around the lake if you want expansive views.
• Mt Major is the perfect moderate hike to include on your New England fall road trip itinerary.
• But nearby Belknap Mountain is also a popular choice for fall hikers.
• Gunstock Mountain Resort has zip lines and ski lifts for easy elevation gain.
• For easier and more close up Autumnal color vistas, simply hire a boat on the lake and explore.
• Or sit back, relax and soak up the views on Lake Winnipesaukee scenic railroad foliage tour.

10. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia finds itself in the list of top 10 most visited and best US National Parks each year. Millions of tourists descend on Bar Harbor annually to enjoy a diverse range of amazing things to do inside the awesome park.

Varied hikes suitable for all ages and abilities, including the famous adrenaline pumping climbs Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail , are a huge draw. But despite being a typical Summer destination in the north of America, Acadia is equally as popular in Autumn and that is purely down to its glowing fall foliage colors.

Sunrises from Cadillac Mountain or Schoodic Point can be extraordinarily beautiful if conditions are right, and sunset at Bass Harbor Head Light is a very highly regarded spectacle. You will need to bring your best hiking gear, spare camera batteries and a lot of energy to the wonderful National Park in Maine.

The only problem you will face with including Acadia on a New England fall foliage road trip is its location. You will have a long drive to and from Acadia from Vermont or New Hampshire. However, if you have the time, it is unquestionably worth the extra effort.

Things To Do In Acadia National Park, Maine

• Hike various amazing trails from easy to hard (to exhilarating!).
• Photograph stunning sunrises, landscapes and Bass Harbor Head Light.
• Drive to Cadillac Mountain summit, the tallest peak on the US east coast.
• Walk or cycle maze-like carriage roads through the park.
• Explore Jordan Pond and swim in Echo Lake.
• Eat and drink in glitzy Bar Harbor, Maine.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Acadia National Park, Maine

• Mountain summits from any hike opens up special views over rolling hills covered in fall colors.
• Carriage roads are the perfect way to explore forested trails which are surrounded by trees.
• Drive the national park loop road for easiest access to fall colors.
• Jordan Pond in particular is encircled by vibrant autumnal hues.
• Cadillac Mountain summit opens up 360 degree views over Maine and the ocean.

Read our Acadia National Park guides to learn more:

• 17 best things to do in Acadia National Park
• 10 hikes you can’t miss in Acadia National Park
• Where to stay in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
• 10 key things to know about visiting Acadia in the fall

Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

New England is an enormous region and choosing exactly where to visit can be challenging. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you begin plotting a route:

• Which places are top of your list? Vermont? New Hampshire? Acadia?
• How many days can you spare on your trip?
• Do you want to book accommodation in advance or take it day by day?
• Are you in New England solely to see and photograph fall colors?
• Or are you focused primarily on hiking with colors as an added bonus?
• Do you want to use small and quaint towns as your main places to stay?
• Or are you more interested in being rural and remote each night?
• What is your budget? Can you afford to splurge on activities?

Once you have an idea about how you see your road trip panning out, use that idea as a guide to make the best decisions based on your travel style.

Next, we will go through a number of potential scenarios for 5 day, 7 day and 10 day road trip examples through New England in fall.

Use the examples as a reference but remember, they are generic and based on how we personally would plan our itineraries with hikes and photography in mind.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Only having 5 days isn’t as much of a negative as it might usually be. Yes, you are going to have to be selective and it is going to be none stop action. But one of the major benefits to a road trip in fall is that all of the best scenery is seen when driving.

Also, the smaller states of Vermont and New Hampshire don’t require a huge amount of drive time between their most scenic places for fall foliage. Include Lake Placid in the Adirondacks and you can easily tick off most of the places in our list in 5 days.

Another consideration is with just 5 days you don’t need to worry as much about ‘following’ peak fall colors. They won’t change too much in that time frame when compared to 10 days.

Example 1 – Lake Placid NY to Manchester VT

D1 – Lake Placid : Walk around Mirror Lake, drive up Whiteface Mountain and explore High Falls Gorge. Stay in Lake Placid.

D2 – Burlington and Stowe : Walk down Church Street, cycle Burlington bike path, explore Smugglers Notch and Stowe Mountain Resort, sunset at Stowe church. Stay in Stowe.

D3 – Franconia Notch and Kancamagus Highway : Hike artists bluff trail, walk around Flume Gorge, drive Kancamagus Highway and down to Wolfeboro. Stay in Wolfeboro on Lake Winnipesaukee.

D4 – Lake Winnipesaukee and Woodstock VT : Spend morning exploring the lake or hike Mt Major, then drive to Woodstock in Vermont via Cornish-Windsor covered bridge, Quechee Gorge and Taftsville covered bridge.

D5 – Woodstock and Manchester : Visit the farms near Woodstock, drive through Green Mountains to Manchester and end at the top of Equinox Mountain.

You could start and end in New York City if flying into Newark or JFK works from your origin and budget. Alternatively, Montreal would be a better place to start for Lake Placid, hire a car and drop it off in NYC or Boston after leaving Manchester, VT.

Example 2 – Lake Winnipesaukee NH to Manchester VT

D1 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Explore the lake, hike Mt Major, take a cruise and stay in Wolfeboro.

D2 – Kancamagus Highway and Franconia Notch : Drive Conway to Lincoln across Kancamagus Highway, hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff. Sleep in Franconia.

D3 – Stowe and Burlington : Stowe church, hike to waterfalls in Stowe Mountain Resort, drive Smugglers Notch and on to Burlington. Ride the bike path for sunset. Stay in Burlington.

D4 – Lake Placid : Whiteface Mountain, High Falls Gorge, Ski Jump and Mirror Lake. Or hike Mount Marcy instead but that is a full day commitment. Stay in Lake Placid.

D5 – Woodstock and Manchester : Visit the farms, covered bridges and drive through Green Mountain countryside to Manchester, finish with Equinox Mountain again.

This version would allow for a round trip loop from Boston, MA airport or Portland, ME airport.

The key to making the most of this shorter trip is to accept that you will be in the car driving a lot but that is where you will see most of the best scenery.

7 Day / One Week New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With a week, you can get more creative, include more places or take things slower. You have more flexibility but still not enough time to add a trip to Acadia, unless you really can’t miss it and don’t mind the driving.

Colors can change a noticeable amount in 7 days, so (if possible!) factor in starting your one week trip just before ‘peak’ begins.

Either of the 5 day examples above would work with 7 days by simply taking more time in certain spots. The alternative is to add in more places to visit. Let’s look at both:

Example 1 – Lake Winnipesaukee NH to Manchester VT

D2 – Kancamagus Highway : Take the awesome road trip slowly, stop at every attraction and stay in Loon Mountain or Lincoln.

D3 – Franconia Notch and Stowe : Hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff before driving to Stowe to photograph the church. Hike the waterfall trails and see Smugglers Notch. Stay in Stowe.

D4 – Burlington and Lake Placid : Church Street and Burlington bike path, then drive to Lake Placid, get stuck into the best bits of Lake Placid and spend the night there.

D5 – Lake Placid and Woodstock : Spend the morning in Lake Placid and drive to Woodstock later in the day. Hike to Mount Tom for amazing views over Woodstock. Stay in Woodstock.

D6 – Woodstock : Sunrise at Sleepy Hollow Farm, Jenne Road Farm, visit the nearby covered bridges and relax in town. Drive to Manchester later in the day to stay over.

D7 – Manchester : Hildene, Manchester old town and stunning Green Mountain country roads, finish at Equinox Mountain.

This variation could begin and end at either Boston, MA or Portland, ME as in the itinerary above. It just gives you more downtime and time to fully explore the places you will visit.

Example 2 – Manchester VT to Lake Winnipesaukee NH

D1 – Manchester : Drive from Boston airport to Manchester, spend the day at Hildene, Equinox Mountain and exploring the town. Stay in Manchester.

D2 – Woodstock : See the best of Woodstock and spend the night.

D3 – Stowe : Hit the top highlights in Stowe and stay there for the night.

D4 – Mount Washington : Take the cog train, drive to the summit or even take on the hike. Sleep in North Conway.

D5 – Kancamagus Highway : Spend a full day on The Kanc. Sleep in Loon Mountain or Lincoln.

D6 – Franconia Notch : Hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff but drive to Lake Winnipesaukee later to spend the night.

D7 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Spend the last day around the lake, cruising, hiking or relaxing.

This loop direction was reversed to give an idea about how you could make it work in a clockwise route. Again this would be starting and ending in Boston or Portland, with JFK or Newark as alternative options.

Instead of driving out to Lake Placid, you could stick to Vermont and New Hampshire, which is where the very best colors are found.

10 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With a full 10 days to spend on your New England fall road trip, you can either max out your itinerary and see all of the best bits or choose to spend more time in fewer places.

Personally, we’re the max out itinerary type and we would definitely include Acadia National Park in our 10 days. It adds in some serious driving time but the journey there is picturesque, rural and most importantly colorful.

Here’s one way you can include each of the places mentioned in this list, including Acadia National Park (this is the way we drove but we spent 14 days doing this route with other non-fall foliage places included in our itinerary):

Example 1 – Lake Placid, NY to Manchester, VT via Acadia National Park, ME

D1 – Lake Placid : Spend the day hiking and surrounded by gorgeous colors. Sleep Lake Placid.

D2 – Burlington : Full day exploring town and cycle the entire bike path to Grand Isle. Stay in or near Burlington.

D3 – Stowe : Smugglers Notch, Mountain Resort, Mt Mansfield and church in town. Stay in Stowe.

D4 – Franconia and Kancamagus Highway : Hike Artists Bluff and Flume Gorge, drive The Kanc and sleep in North Conway.

D5 – Mt Washington and drive to Acadia : Drive to the summit or take the cog train before driving US-2 all the way to Acadia. Sleep in Bar Harbor.

D6 – Acadia : Sunrise Cadillac Mountain, Hike Acadia Mountain and Beech Mountain, sunset at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Stay in Bar Harbor.

D7 – Acadia : Sunrise Schoodic Point, Hike Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail, Walk around Jordan Pond, Great Ocean Path and carriage roads by bike to see the best fall colors. Final night in Bar Harbor.

D8 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Final morning in Acadia, long drive to Wolfeboro and explore Lake Winnipesaukee.

D9 – Woodstock : Photograph Sleepy Hollow and Jenne Road, hike to Mt Tom, see covered bridges.

D10 – Manchester : Hildene, Mount Equinox, nearby Bennington battle monument and covered bridges.

Tips For The 10 Day Itinerary

The only concern with this itinerary is the inclusion of Acadia National Park. It’s a 4 hour drive from Mt Washington to Acadia and 4 hours 20 minutes back from Acadia to Wolfeboro.

However, if you do have more time you can include stops on the way to and from Acadia to break up the longer drives. US-1 and US-2 are picturesque but slow going. If you’re pushed for time, take the less scenic but faster I-95 instead.

Alternatively, if you’re not so bothered by Acadia, plan to spend even more time in each of the other 9 places in this list. That would give you wiggle room in case of bad weather and plenty of time to relax.

Notice how the route starts furthest north and loops around Acadia then comes back further south?

That’s because with 10 days you should try to ‘follow’ the peak colors as they transition southwards over the first two weeks of October.

New England Fall Road Trip Map

Red Markers – Locations of the 10 best places to visit on a New England fall road trip itinerary.

Click or touch the map to activate.

Zoom in and out, move around the map of New England to find locations for the best places to visit in the area.

More From New England

• Best things to do in Burlington Vermont
• Best things to do in Woodstock Vermont
• Driving the Kancamagus Highway in fall
• How to visit Flume Gorge in New Hampshire
• The best things to do in Lake Placid New York
• The best things to do in Stowe Vermont
• Top things to do in Manchester Vermont
• Unmissable things to do in Acadia National Park

We hope this New England fall foliage road trip guide with itinerary ideas helps you plan the perfect leaf-peeping vacation!

Please let us know if you have any questions about New England or need any help planning your visit in the comments below.

Happy Travels,

Mark and Kristen

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Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

29 thoughts on “New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Stunning Stops”

I really appreciate your compressive guide to New England for travel in the Fall. We have enjoyed most of the areas you mention in years past and loved it. My sister is visiting from Australia at perfect Fall Foliage time so we’re planning to do your 10-day roadtrip this year. I was wondering if you have an App you prefer to use to plan each segment of the roadtrip. I used Roadtrippers earlier this year and found it good, but would welcome your suggestions for a roadtrip App. I plan to download your digital guide as well. Thank you and happy travels.

Hi Sharon, we’re happy to hear you will be visiting New England again and this time with your sister. If you are looking for alternatives to Roadtrippers you could check out Wanderlog which is another useful resource. But to be honest we don’t use any apps for our road trips except for the basic and free Google Maps app. We plot points for attractions, restaurants and hotels as we research before visiting a new place, and we plan ahead so we can really get organized. If you download our digital guide and go to the end, you will find a map we created that will open in your Google Maps app and it already contains the locations for top attractions, foliage photo spots, hikes, restaurants and hotels that we discuss throughout the guide. You can of course see more places but we have preloaded the map with the essential spots to visit around New England in fall. Have a fantastic trip!

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, Thank you so very much for your advice. I downloaded the digital guide to use. So looking forward to this trip and having your guide to get organized makes this a lot less daunting. Keep up the great work and happy traveling.

Hi Sharon, Visiting New England in fall is an amazing trip and you will have a wonderful time! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a nice comment and downloading our guide. Just let us know if you have any specific questions as we get closer to fall season 🙂

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I have accommodations booked from Lake Placid to Woodstock. Since we want to add a couple of nights in Boston to walk the Freedom Trail and visit the Boston Tea Party site, would you recommend skipping Manchester, Vermont and going directly to Boston from Woodstock. Or, would we be missing out if we skip Manchester. Appreciate your advice.

Hi Sharon, you will have covered almost all of the best fall spots between Lake Placid and Woodstock. We like Manchester but it isn’t going to ruin your trip if you skip it, especially if you really want to see more of Boston. After 10 days or so you will have had your fill of fall colors anyway, so Boston will be a welcome change of scenery and pace. Have a fantastic time!

I would love a copy of the book as well, to use as we travel Thank you for a wealth of information!

Wow, amazing information, thank you. Have you written it in book form by any chance? I would love to drive with the book on hand for reference.

Hi Helen, you have asked at just the right time. We are currently in the process of creating a digital guidebook filled with key information and itinerary ideas for the New England fall road trip. It will be ready within the next week or so and we will email you once it is live. You will be able to either keep it on your smartphone or print it if you prefer to have a paper copy.

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I’m using this article to plan our New England fall leaves trip and would also be interested in a copy of your digital guidebook, please. The information you provide is outstanding — thank you! ~ Carol

Thank you, Carol! We’re happy to hear you are planning a New England trip this fall. You can follow this link to see more details about our digital guidebook. If you do purchase the guidebook, remember to open up the map on page 45 when you are in each place to see the best hikes, foliage spots, attractions, restaurants and hotels. And if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask away. Have a fantastic trip!

Hello! What a wonderful site you have given us :). Question…do any of the New England fall road trips include the Berkshires? I would love to include a quick visit to The Mount/Edith Wharton’s home. Thanks, Jo

Thank you, Jo! Yes absolutely, you could easily add The Mount / Edith Wharton’s Home to the end of our 10 day New England fall road trip itinerary because it is just 1 hour 30 minutes drive to the south of Manchester VT (which is the last stop in our guide), before heading back to the Boston / NY airports. It wouldn’t be much of a detour and if you are heading that way you might also want to consider including a short drive along scenic highway 2, also known as The Mohawk Trail. Have a fantastic trip later this year!

Hi There! We are flying into Portland, (Sept 23rd) Maine and flying out of Boston, Mass (October 2nd) We have about one full week for our Fall Foliage road trip. Knowing we arrive Portland and depart Boston, what would you map out for itinerary.

Part II question, I prefer staying at one hotel for a few days and taking day trips as opposed to staying one night in several places.

Would it be wise to stay 3 nights near Acadia Nat’l Park and then 3 nights in New Hampshire (near all of the Franconia State Park and Kancamagus Hwy ?

Hi Erin, yes staying 3 nights in Bar Harbor and then 3 nights somewhere near Franconia Notch sounds like the best idea if you would prefer to stay in one hotel for each part of your trip. You can easily visit the most popular fall foliage areas in VT and NH from Franconia. Depending on how much driving you want to do, you could split your days into Vermont and New Hampshire. So one day you do Stowe, Woodstock and Manchester (the driving in between is just as picturesque as the towns), then another day you do Mt Washington, Kancamagus, Artists Bluff and Flume Gorge (which are all much closer together). Then stop at Lake Winnipesaukee on the way down to Boston. Hopefully the peak colors will be in north / central VT and NH early Oct for your trip – have a great time!

Love your site! we are planning a a Fall Foliage trip for 2023 over our 34th Anniversary. thinking any where from 10 – 14 days from the last week in Sept. to the first week of Oct. We are thinking to end our trip in Boston for a few days. If I followed tour 10 day trip guide would it make sense to fly into Albany, NY and out of Boston. Or are we better off to make Boston a long weekend trip?

Hi Randy, thanks for getting in touch and we’re happy to hear you’re planning a trip to New England next year, congrats on the 34th! Absolutely, flying into Albany and out of Boston makes perfect sense. If you make your trip 14 days total, you can follow the 10 day itinerary in our guide and then spend 2 or 3 days in Boston at the end. Something to consider is whether or not you want to see Acadia NP, it is a stunning place but it’s a long way out from the rest of New England’s top foliage spots. If you don’t include Acadia, you can spend longer in the fall color hotspots of Stowe, Woodstock and Manchester in VT, plus Franconia Notch, Kancamagus Highway and Lake Winnipesaukee in NH. Let us know if you have any more questions and best of luck with planning!

We are planning a trip to Maine in the fall of 2023 for our 40th anniversary for a total of 7 days. We would be interested in mainly leaf peeping,Arcadia NP, sight seeing/boat tours, driving the back roads and easy hikes. I really like the coast. Now that I have run across this post, I am rethinking our trip. What city should we fly into? Do you recommend spending 2 days in Arcadia NP? Should we hit some of the areas you mentioned in NH? I don’t think we have time to do your whole itinerary in 7 days. Your thoughts?

Hi Randi, glad to hear you have a trip planned to Maine for your 40th anniversary – congrats! Honestly, 7 days isn’t enough time to be rushing around New England trying to cram in everything. If you like the coast and you want to do Acadia, why not fly into Portland in Maine and slowly drive up to Bar Harbor via the back roads? Acadia is great but it is touristy and expensive, plus you won’t get the best fall colors (when compared to NH or VT). Boothbay Harbor is a nice place to stop between Portland and Bar Harbor, and you can do whale watching tours right out of the small town. If Portland doesn’t work for flight times or prices, Boston will be your best bet. Let us know if you need any more help before you travel next year.

Hi. I’m glad I found this. We are planning our 50th Anniversary to see Vermont and Maine in late September. Is it possible to stay in one place and drive to see the sights? We don’t want to keep changing hotels. This is a lifetime dream for us. Thank you.

Hi Jan, congrats on your 50th anniversary! Without knowing exactly which places in Vermont and Maine you want to see, it is possible to stay in one place but that would mean quite a lot of time spent in the car. If you have a 50/50 split, maybe stay somewhere in New Hampshire in the middle? Or if you plan to spend more time in VT, stay somewhere just inside VT near the NH border? Somewhere near Franconia NH might be a good fit so you are central to most of the fall hot spots and far enough North to see peak colors at the end of September. Have a great time!

Great article! While planning and researching for our New England Fall Foliage Adventure we saw right away that trying to predict “peak” conditions was a difficult proposition, at best. With that in mind and because we have a bit of time on our hands we decided our adventure would be from mid September to mid October 2022. We have booked all of our accommodations and now it’s all about deeply researching the areas and filling in the days. Finding your well written and in depth blog helped confirm our research was spot on and added to our happiness that we are actually going to pull this off. Plus, now we have an excellent study guide to boot! Bring on the trails, the mountains, the breweries, the lobster, cheese, cider donuts, Octoberfests and even the rain! Thank YOU and keep up the fantastic and insightful work!

Hi Jeff, thanks for getting in touch and we are so happy to hear you have planned a full month up in New England! Your list of activities is spot on – hiking, scenery, fall colors, food and beer … recipe for a perfect trip! Good luck filling in the days and hopefully you’ll get optimal weather conditions leading into the peak, just remember to keep an eye on the peak fall colors tracker when you are on site in New England. Have a wonderful trip!

Hello! This post is really very useful! We are planning to go to New England from September 30th to October 8th (we have already booked our flight from Italy). Since we would like to spend a couple of days in Boston too, do you recommend to begin with Boston and then start our road trip or to do the other way round? We would very glad if you could give us more details! Thanks a lot!

Hi Simonetta, thanks for getting in touch and we’re happy to hear you will be visiting New England this fall! This is a tough question because nobody can predict when “peak” fall colors will be in each part of New England. You can keep an eye on a live peak foliage tracker and book everything last minute, but that is risky as accommodation will book up. So, we would suggest starting with Boston and then driving up as far North as you will go on your trip (ie Stowe in VT or Franconia in NH) and then working down South to follow the peak. Please let us know if you have any more questions and you might even see us up there somewhere this year! Have a great time 🙂

I’m so happy to have found your blog post. I know how much time and effort goes into planning these type of trips, so I appreciate you writing about it and sharing it. We are looking at doing a mix of rural/city for both NH, VT, and ME. Looking closer to a 10 day trip and flexible on the dates. Would you say the hikes are fairly easy, medium, or difficult? Do you think looking into Air BNB’s out there would be better vs. hotels?

Hi Ani, thanks for getting in touch and we’re glad to hear you have a trip planned for VT, NH and ME. There are countless hikes spanning the difficulty range on this road trip route, so you do have a lot of flexibility over how long you want to spend hiking and how hard the trails are. Artists Bluff is short but has a steep climb, so we would say it is moderate but well worth it. Flume Gorge is easy and shouldn’t be missed. Acadia (if you make it that far) has a host of easy through hard hikes. Lake Winnipesaukee has plenty of hikes to suit all. If you’re looking for hard hikes take on Mt Washington or Mt Mansfield, tallest in NH and VT. You’ll likely only be spending one night or a maximum of 2 at any given place so we would say go for hotels. AirBnB’s are great for uniqueness and meeting people but for one night they are always more expensive with cleaning fees / service fees etc. By all means check prices and see if you can find any good deals or special places but we will be sticking to hotels ourselves the next time we are in New England. Let us know if you need any more help and have a fantastic trip!

Great information, love your post! We have never been to New England and would like to go see the fall colors in late Sept. or Oct. We also want to spend some time in Boston and Cape area. We are flexible on dates and number of days in itinerary. We would be interested in some hikes. After looking at you post I’m thinking Vermont and New Hampshire might work after seeing Boston. Can you help with an itinerary? We would be flying from San Diego, CA. Would appreciate any information! Thank You!

Thanks for getting in touch, Marilen – we’ll respond through email so we can provide more information.

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Road Trip from New Jersey to Portland, Maine

Uncover the hidden gems of New England on this awe-inspiring road trip driving along the east coast from New Jersey to Portland, Maine, visiting small historic cities, scenic state parks with cliffs, and coastal views.

The 400-mile road trip from New Jersey to Portland, Maine, takes around 10 hours to drive via the east coast, visiting Long Island, Boston, York, and Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, or via Bridgeport, Hartford, and Manchester taking a short route.

If whale watching, hiking, and walking along the shoreline and seaports excite you, keep reading to find the incredible places to see and things to do on this route.

How far is Portland, Maine, from New Jersey, and how long will the road trip take?

The scenic drive to Portland, Maine, from New Jersey via The Coastal Route takes a little over 10 hours to cover 400 miles without any food and gas breaks.

For a quick and easy trip, take The New England Direct Route, covering 400 miles over 8 hours of driving, not considering any stopovers.

While you can cover the journey within a day, we suggest you split the trip over two to four days to avoid exhaustion and explore the coastal route fully.

Looking to extend your road trip to Maine? Here is our ultimate road trip itinerary for an amazing adventure:

READ MORE - Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Best road trip route from New Jersey to Portland, Maine

For anyone wanting to explore the New England coastline, embark on this fantastic journey along The Coastal Route. Encounter some of the first cities in the US packed with history and plenty of nature to explore.

This route also comprises a ferry ride from Orient Point, Long Island, to New London, Connecticut, a beautiful experience.

The New England Direct Route is straightforward, with most of the drive on interstates. You'll meet quaint cities with historical backstories that have shaped the USA.

From the invention of basketball to Mark Twain's writing of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, a trip through New England can be best described as an eclectic experience.

Throughout the drive, you'll find roads surrounded by dense green forests shifting to vibrant brown and red hues in fall.

Whichever route you choose, you'll finish your journey by driving along the east coast, where you can pull over at any point and visit the coastal towns.

The Coastal Route

Exit Newark by taking Interstate 280 (I-280) out of the city and merging into I-95. Take a right on NJ-495 to leave New Jersey and enter Manhattan, New York. Soak in the city life and catch a glimpse of the magnificent Empire State Building.

Cross the East River and follow the road to Long Island, Greenport, and, finally, Orient Point before catching the ferry to New London. Then join I-95 and cross the border to enter Rhode Island.

After crossing Providence, enter Massachusetts, and drive to Boston by switching to I-93 in between. After exploring the happening city, exit on I-93 and join I-95 again to head east to Salem.

Drive along the coast on MA-128 and reach Rockport. To continue your journey along the east coast, head back to Essex and take MA-133/MA-1 to make your way through the lush greenery and gorgeous views.

Once you join I-95 again, continue going North visiting Portsmouth and Kennebunkport before finally reaching Portland.

Here is our ultimate road trip itinerary in Maine if you have more time to spare.

The New England Route

Head to I-95 to get out of Newark. Cross The Hudson River and enter New York. Avoid The Bronx from 6 AM to 10 AM and 1 PM to 7 PM to avoid heavy traffic.

Pass the beautiful green parks across the city and drive along the coast, crossing Bridgeport and New Haven. Then, head on I-91 to continue your northward journey along the Connecticut River, passing Hartford.

Head straight along the breadth of Massachusetts, passing Springfield along the way. After entering Vermont briefly, change your tracks at Brattleboro to head toward New Hampshire, taking NH-9.

Follow the route to Concord, then head to the coast by jumping first on I-93 and then on NH-101. Look for directions to Portsmouth and hop on I-95.

Complete the last lap of your drive along the East Coast, taking a short detour to Kennebunkport before reaching Portland.

To expand further on your adventure, check out the ultimate road trip itinerary to Maine .

Best places to stop between New Jersey and Portland, Maine

The route from New Jersey to Portland is filled with buzzing cities and charming historic towns, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. To enjoy all the exciting things to do along the way, take a break at our favorite cities for an overnight stay.

Explore the bustling city of Boston

Once you cover half the distance on The Coastal Route, you'll arrive in Boston, Massachusetts. Because there are several must-visit sites in and around the city, it is only fair that you spend a night here.

Boston is known worldwide for the significant historical event, The Boston Tea Party. Here, you can jump a full-scale replica ship aboard and watch live actors perform the historical scene. To learn more about that fateful incident, visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

For a slice of nature amidst the city, head to Boston Common, the oldest park in the USA. It is located downtown, and you don't need to travel far to enjoy 50 acres of green space. Or you could also visit Fenway Park and take a guided tour to see "America's Most Beloved Ballpark.”

Located at walking distance from the city's famous tourist attractions, Boston Marriott Long Wharf gets our vote for your stay in Boston. Centrally placed in the Long Wharf, you can easily access the blue subway line across the city.

The hotel has stylish and sophisticated interiors, and you can enjoy harbor views from the comfort of your comfortable rooms. And you can avail of their on-site valet parking at $61 per day.

When hungry, head to the on-site Waterline restaurant serving food made from locally sourced ingredients. And to shed off the holiday weight, take advantage of the fitness center and indoor swimming pool open year-round.

Spend a cultural evening in the vibrant Springfield

Springfield is an ideal overnight stop after covering almost half the distance on The New England Direct Route. Popularly known as the ‘City of Firsts,' it is the birthplace of Basketball, the USA's first military arsenal, and the USA's first automobile.

If you're a Dr. Seuss fan, you already know he was born in Springfield in 1904. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden has bronze sculptures, including the Cat in the Hat, alongside Dr. Seuss.

A visit to Springfield is incomplete without a visit to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. In this museum, you can learn about the game's notable superstars, see exhibitions and try your hand at shooting challenges.

Look no further than centrally placed MGM Springfield for your stay in Springfield. Besides enjoying free on-site private parking, you can also indulge in the on-site entertainment, including casino and bar.

You'll love the hotel's trendy interiors and modern rooms. The hotel has plenty of on-site restaurants to pick from, including TAP Sports Bar and Jack's Lobster Shack.

Start your day with the complimentary continental breakfast and jump on the I-91 in no time.

Where to stay when you reach Portland, Maine

The eclectic city of Portland will welcome you with its buzzing food scene, historic sites, stellar architecture, lovely arts, and exciting outdoor activities. There's no better place than Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port to camp out and soak in the enriching Portland experience.

Located close to Portland Downtown Historic District and the attractions like Wadsworth Longfellow House, Victoria Mansion, Portland Observatory, Fort Allen Park, and Eastern Promenade, the hotel offers free shuttles to places within a mile's distance.

You'll especially love their luxurious amenities like the indoor heated pool, comfy beds, seating area, private parking, and state-of-the-art fitness center. Also, you can chill at their on-site bar that serves happy hour drinks and indulge in delicious meals at the on-site restaurant - Glass Lounge.

Things to see on a road trip from New Jersey to Portland, Maine

On this route, you'll find many iconic cities, coastal towns, and green forests filled with exciting indoor and outdoor attractions.

To help you plan better, we have combined a list of must-visit things to see on both routes.

• Midtown Manhattan, New York – Although a passing visit doesn't do justice to Manhattan, you can admire the famed Manhattan landmarks. Climb up the Empire State Building and gaze at the bright lights of Times Square.
• Long Island, New York – Home to New York's elite, you can find Heckscher State Park on the Great South Bay. Enjoy long walks along the shoreline and find a shaded picnic area.
• New London, Connecticut – Marvel at the white sand beaches at Ocean Beach. Known as 'New England's Finest Beach,' you can walk the trail to Alewife Cove.
• Providence, Rhode Island – Walk the Mile of History. A cobblestone street adorned with Victorian lamp posts that go through the center of Providence is a beautiful sight.
• Blue Hills Reservation, Milton, Massachusetts – Stop at the Blue Hills Reservation before arriving in Boston. Hike up the 635-foot Great Blue Hill and enjoy spectacular views of Boston from a distance.
• Salem, Massachusetts – Famed for its witch trials, Salem is known for its spooky past. Salem offers something unique from the Witch House, Witch Dungeon Museum, and ghost walks.
• Gloucester, Massachusetts – Increase your chances of spotting a whale by going on a tour with Cape Ann Whale Watch. The expert guides guarantee a whale sighting for every tour.
• Rockport, Massachusetts – Halibut Point State Park has hiking trails and picnic tables on cliff edges. It offers a scenic stop for lunch with a view.

The New England Direct Route

• The Bronx, New York – Take a relaxing stroll through the New York Botanical Garden. It is spread over 250 acres, and you can see gorgeous plants and flowers and follow a trail through the Thain Family Forest.
• Bridgeport, Connecticut – Seaside Park is in the South End Neighborhood. You can enjoy long and peaceful walks on pathways running along the coastline. Make sure you don't miss the incredible sunset view.
• New Haven, Connecticut – Home of Yale University, New Haven has a wealth of educational attractions. Try the Yale University Art Gallery, the Yale Peabody Museum, and the Yale Center for British Art.
• Hartford, Connecticut – Visit to Hartford is incomplete without the Mark Twain House and Museum tour. It's where he lived from 1874 to 1974 and wrote the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and the Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
• Northampton, Massachusetts – Considered the hidden gem of Massachusetts, you can find quaint local restaurants on Main Street. Set on the Connecticut River, you can kayak on a sunny day.
• Brattleboro, Vermont – With a small-town spirit yet a thriving downtown, Brattleboro is an artsy stay. For 19th century vibe, head to Main Street.
• Concord, New Hampshire – Another river town on this route, you can hire kayaks and boats from Contoocook River Canoe Company to enjoy boating on Merrimack River and admire the surrounding nature.
• Manchester, New Hampshire – Enjoy the Arms Park on the banks of Merrimack River. You can also visit the nearby SEE Science Center and the vintage Palace Theater.

Both Routes

• Portsmouth, New Hampshire – Coined the 'Crown Jewel' of the New Hampshire coast, Portsmouth is one of the oldest seaports in the US. The Strawbery Banke Museum highlights over 300 years of the area's history.
• York, Maine – Long Sands Beach and York Harbor Beach are tranquil beaches. Although out of town, you can visit Mount Agamenticus for a forest hike leading to the 692-foot peak.
• Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Maine – This popular bird-watching spot is perfect for catching glimpses of peregrine falcons and bald eagles.
• Kennebunkport, Maine – Admire Saint Ann's Church's delicate architecture and stained-glass windows. Watch the waves crash against rocks at the nearby Blowing Cave Park.

Best time to go on a road trip from New Jersey to Portland, Maine

You can visit Portland, Maine, any time of the year. That said, a few months are better suited for planning this road trip. The route is affected by extreme winter and summer weather, with temperatures between 16 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Summer is the peak tourist season, and people will flood the beaches. This causes hotel prices to soar. The temperature averages between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit from June to August. So, this may not be the best option if you're looking for affordable hotel options.

Although winter in Portland is not as cold as in the Northern states, you'll find it freezing. The average temperature from November to February is between 24 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit; you'll see snow often. January is the snowiest time of the year, and you'll have tourists all over the slopes enjoying winter sports.

Spring marks the beginning of blooming flowers and whale watching, and the temperature averages around 40 degrees during March, April, and May.

September is quite warm, with temperatures averaging 69 degrees, and it is perfect for exploring the outdoors. If you wish to enjoy quiet time in the city, you can also plan your visit during Fall.

There aren't many festivals or events that Portland hosts throughout the year. But you might want to earmark a few dates, like the second week of March when the Carnaval Me event occurs or the Bug Light Kite Festival during the third week of May.

Wine lovers, check out the Portland wine week during the second week of June, and if you love delicious lobster meat, catch the Maine Lobster Festival at the beginning of August.

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Related posts

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Distance between Boston and New Jersey

Driving non-stop from boston to new jersey.

How far is New Jersey from Boston? Here's the quick answer if you are able to make this entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 261 miles or 420 km

Driving time: 4 hours, 19 minutes

Realistically, you'll probably want to add a buffer for rest stops, gas, or food along the way. To get a better idea of how long this trip would really be, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would take if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from Boston to New Jersey

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between Boston, Massachusetts and New Jersey (NJ). Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula.

Flight distance: 228 miles or 367 km

Flight time: 1 hour, 1 minute

The straight line flight distance is 33 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.1x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/3th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a relatively short flight in a private plane, but you might be planning to book a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

Boston to New Jersey road trip

Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to New Jersey, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over more than one day.

Road trip: 2 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 6 hours on the road with 1 overnight

Start in Boston .

Drive for about 1.5 hours , then stop at Old Sturbridge Village (Massachusetts) and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 54 minutes then stop in Hartford and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 42 minutes then stop in New Haven . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 47 minutes , then stop in Stamford (Connecticut) and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 45 minutes then stop at Central Park and stay for 2 hours. Drive for 48 minutes then stop in New Brunswick and stay for 1 hour. Finally, drive for about 45 minutes and arrive at New Jersey .

Boston to New Jersey airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Arrival airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 7 minutes

Getting to your destination: 134 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from BOS to JFK and figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway.

Commercial flight time: 1 hour, 38 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from Boston to New Jersey including time spent getting to/from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, and the actual flight itself.

Total travel time: 6 hours

Plan a trip to New Jersey

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to New Jersey (NJ). Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in New Jersey . Check out some of the questions people have asked about New Jersey like Best beach towns in New Jersey? . Click the button below to explore New Jersey in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from New Jersey to Boston , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know Boston, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Boston!

More info on this route: elevation from Boston to New Jersey drive from Boston to New Jersey road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions