If you name a place in the U.S., odds are that I’ve been there – but this ultimate New England autumn road trip my dad and I did has got to be my favorite trip in the U.S. of all time.

Out of all the regions of the States that I’ve seen – I’ve got to say, that New England’s got a soft spot in my book.

Acadia National Park in Maine; October 2016

It does not have the free-spirited vibe of California that so eloquently matches my own persona (according to all of the people I’ve met around the world), but in terms of the scenic views – the things I saw in New England were much more my style. '

When is the Best Time to Visit New England?

Without a doubt, autumn is the best time of year to visit New England, as the foliage allows for incredible photo opportunities and this region of the U.S. shines when you can cozy up with a warm cup of coffee and a pastry from a local bakery. Also, all the tourists will have left –making fall a calmer time of year to discover hidden gems in New England like Bar Harbor, Mystic, and Providence.

When Should I Go to New England to See the Fall Foliage?

I’ll tell you right away, that if you want to do it during peak foliage season – that you can’t plan it too far in advance. You’ll have to keep yourself posted on the weeks where the fall colors are supposed to be most prominent.

My dad and I went in the middle of October with hopes we’d luck out…

… and we did.

However, this is subject to change year by year – so just keep your eyes open to what the forecasts are saying.

So, you’re thinking of taking a road trip through New England?

While it’s smaller than other regions of the U.S., there are a lot of options when it comes to where to choose to go.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are all the places my dad and I went on our trip:

How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip in New England: Our Itinerary

1. Mystic, Connecticut

As we were looking for something besides New Haven, which is mostly a college town – my dad picked out Mystic…

… possibly because of the movie, ‘Mystic Pizza’, but no worries – it all turned out to be worth it.

It’s a small town on a river with a homey feel to it.

painting of mystic conneticut new engalnd inside an ice cream shop — Inside Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream in Connecticut; October 2016

Where Can I Go in Mystic Connecticut for a Cup of Coffee or Ice Cream?

If you’re craving a sweet cup of coffee or ice cream cone while in Mystic, you must go to Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream and get one of their candy bar inspired lattes. They also have vegan ice cream flavors!

Mystic has some of the best lattes I’ve ever had! — Mystic has some of *the best* lattes I’ve *ever* had!

2. Newport, Rhode Island

Having been to Providence already, my dad and I wanted to see something different.

Essentially, Newport is a city on water with some really nice houses.

What Can I Do in Newport Rhode Island?

If you hop on one of the sightseeing buses in Newport, they’ll take you for a ride that’ll hug the coast – and even let you off for photo stops.

There’s also a boardwalk in Newport called Bowen’s Wharf with all the seafood you could ever imagine that you should walk down.

Walking down the boardwalk in Newport off of America’s Cup Avenue; October 2016

3. Portland, Maine

Portland may be a small town, but don’t be fooled by its size – it’s thoroughly stuffed with charm and enough hipster, quirky bakeries to be deemed as a distinct city, in my book.

Discovering Portland, Maine; October 2016

What Can I Do in Portland?

Here’s what I recommend doing while in Portland, Maine:

Check out The Holy Donut, which is a family-owned dount shop where they make donuts out of potatoes!
Stop by Two Fat Cats for their amazing pastries and coffees
Wander down to Back Cove Park for pictures or to have a picnic in Portland

4. Bar Harbor, Maine

This was one of the highlights of our New England trip, and it was absolutely worth the drive out there.

Is Bar Harbor Maine Overrated?

Bar Harbor is not overrated at all, as this amazing place in Maine can be enjoyed in both the summer and the fall – from fun water activities, seafood restaurants, to stunning places to take photos of the fall foliage.

What Should I See in Bar Harbor?

The number one thing you must do when in Bar Harbor is take a drive to Acadia National Park, as it has some of the most underrated and majestic scenery I have ever seen in the United States.

Be sure to visit Acadia National Park while you’re in Bar Harbor… because if you don’t…

Jordan’s Pond at Acadia National Park; October 2016

… you’re missing out.

5. Burlington, Vermont

Like Portland, the city center of Burlington is small but screams character.

Walking down Church street in the rain in Burlington, Vermont; October 2016

While you’re there, take a walk down Church Street and sit down for a hot apple cider at Muddy Waters for the ultimate autumn-in-New-England experience.

Be sure to read my full article about Burlington for everything you need to know before visiting this New England city!

Want to see all of these places in action?

Watch my New England Vlog below!

I hope this gave you some ideas for your upcoming road trip through New England! If you’re looking for more things to do in the U.S., click here.

Last updated: June 10, 2025

Your Ultimate Itinerary for New England in the Fall