New England Leaf-Peeping Custom Adventure Tour
Fall Foliage Through Historic New England
- Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
- Activity: Level 2
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels
Highlights
- Explore the carriage roads and Maine coast in Acadia National Park and travel scenic byways ablaze in fall color
- Uncover New England history on cultural tours in Boston, Bar Harbor, Portland, and charming small towns
- Savor regional specialties, from fresh Maine lobster to seasonal cuisine sourced from organic local farms
Itinerary
Arrive in Boston & Take a History Tour on the Freedom Trail
Day 1
Arrive in Boston, pick up your rental car, and settle into your centrally located downtown hotel, where valet parking makes for an easy start to your New England adventure. This afternoon, take a guided walk along Boston’s famed Freedom Trail, tracing the red-brick path to all 16 historic landmarks. Hear vivid stories of Revolutionary icons Paul Revere, John Hancock, and the often-overlooked women, African Americans, and immigrants whose contributions shaped the nation. Your guide brings to life Boston’s pivotal role in the Revolution, abolition, and education reform. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace—stroll Beacon Hill’s charming streets, dine in the North End, or visit nearby Cambridge, home to Harvard University and MIT.
Accommodation: Fairmont Copley Plaza
Activity: Shared Guided History Tour
Transportation: Self-drive
Drive to Bar Harbor, Maine & Enjoy a Portland City Tour
Day 2
Drive north toward Bar Harbor, stopping to savor Maine’s coastal character along the way. If time permits, stop in the charming seaside town of Kennebunkport for a taste of classic New England charm. This afternoon, discover Portland on a guided city tour, exploring its lively downtown, vibrant Arts District, and historic Old Port lined with excellent restaurants and waterfront energy. Admire rows of brownstones and elegant Victorian in residential neighborhoods, watch lobstermen at work, and take in sweeping coastal views across Casco Bay. A highlight is iconic Portland Head Light, where dramatic ocean scenery meets rich maritime history. After your tour, continue along the scenic coast to Bar Harbor, gateway to Maine’s rugged island landscapes.
Accommodation: The Harborside Hotel
Activity: Shared Portland City Tour
Transportation: 5-Hour Self-Drive Road Trip
Meals: Breakfast
Explore Acadia National Park with a Private Guide
Day 3
This morning, set out with your private guide and driver for a full-day exploration of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island, tailored to your interests and pace. Pause for easy scenic walks at highlights such as Sand Beach, a striking crescent of golden sand tucked between granite headlands, and Thunder Hole, where surf crashes dramatically into a narrow rock inlet. Admire the sheer granite wall at Otter Cliff, stroll the rocky shores of Otter Cove, and enjoy the serene beauty of Jordan Pond, famed for its crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrop. Weather permitting, ascend Cadillac Mountain for sweeping coastal vistas from Acadia’s highest peak. Return to Bar Harbor with the evening free to explore at leisure.
Accommodation: The Harborside Hotel
Activity: Full Day Private Guided Park Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Savor a Bar Harbor Culinary Tour & Drive to New Hampshire
Day 4
Check out of your hotel and meet your private guide for a flavorful walking tour through historic Bar Harbor. Stroll less than a mile along charming village streets as you sample classic local specialties—buttery lobster rolls, creamy New England clam chowder, fresh oyster tastings, wild blueberry pie, and whoopie pies beloved across Maine—are all possibilities! Between bites, hear stories of Bar Harbor’s maritime heritage, Gilded Age grandeur, and enduring connection to the sea. After your culinary adventure, enjoy a scenic drive inland to North Conway, nestled amid the White Mountains and rich with small-town New England charm.
In spring and summer, other options for this day, such as whale-watching cruises, private catamaran sails, and traditional clambakes, offer another memorable taste of the coast.Accommodation: Stonehurst Manor
Activity: Shared 3-hour tour
Transportation: 3.5 Hours Self-Drive Road Trip
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive through New Hampshire's White Mountains & Ride Horses in Vermont
Day 5
Drive west toward Burlington along the legendary Kancamagus Highway, one of New England’s finest fall foliage routes, where mountainsides glow with brilliant reds, golds, and oranges. Passing through White Mountain National Forest, Rocky Gorge, Lower Falls, or Lost River Gorge for waterfalls, easy walks, and remarkable geology. Cross into Vermont and take time to stroll through charming Stowe, a picture-perfect village of steeples, shops, and classic New England charm. This afternoon, saddle up for a private guided horseback ride from Franconia Stables, following forest and meadow trails ablaze with autumn color, with mountain views and possible sightings of deer, moose, and wild turkeys.In spring and summer kayaking or canoeing are options and make a great way to experience the White Mountain region.
Accommodation: Hotel Vermont
Activity: 1-hour Private Guided Horseback Ride
Transportation: 3 Hour Self-Drive Road Trip
Meals: Breakfast
Experience Burlington's Charm Your Way
Day 6
There are many ways to experience Burlington, with a menu of memorable adventures. Glide along the shores of Lake Champlain on a guided e-bike ride or take to the water for a scenic cruise with wide-open mountain views. Food lovers may choose a visit to the famous Ben & Jerry's factory for a behind-the-scenes taste of Vermont’s sweetest icon, while history and nature enthusiasts can explore the pastoral beauty of Shelburne Farms. Another tempting option is a guided craft brewery tour through Burlington’s lively downtown, sampling inventive local brews. Whatever you have planned for the day, Burlington’s lakeside charm and creative spirit shine through.
Accommodation: Hotel Vermont
Activity: Private or Shared Tours
Meals: Breakfast
Follow Vermont's Route 100 to Woodstock
Day 7
Set out on scenic Route 100, one of Vermont’s most beautiful byways, winding south through rolling hills, vibrant villages, and classic autumn landscapes. Head for Woodstock, stopping for self-guided exploration at Vermont gems such as Quechee Gorge’s dramatic river-carved views and charming towns like Warren. Meet up with your guide for a private organic farm experience in the rolling hills of Vermont. Pop a sweet cherry tomato in your mouth and pick some blueberries or even put your hands in the warm soil and plant a seedling. During the tour, you'll harvest produce for your lunch and learn about sustainable gardening and farming methods before enjoying an outdoor picnic with your fresh-picked ingredients—a delicious hands-on taste of Vermont’s agricultural heart.
Accommodation: 506 on the River
Activity: Private Guided Tour
Transportation: 3-hour self-drive road trip
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore the Heart of Vermont with a Private Guide
Day 8
This morning, meet your MT Sobek guide for a private exploration of central Vermont's most charming backroads and hidden treasures. Travel through a landscape of green hills, winding country lanes, and postcard-perfect villages, stopping to admire classic covered bridges and scenic state parks. In the Warren and Woodstock region, discover the authentic rhythm of small-town Vermont, where white church steeples, village greens, and historic inns create timeless New England appeal. Enjoy leisurely walks at scenic overlooks and tucked-away local spots known best to insiders, with opportunities to browse artisan shops, sample regional specialties, and soak in the peaceful beauty of the countryside. It is a day rich in quiet discoveries, local flavor, and the unmistakable charm that makes Vermont so beloved.
Accommodation: 506 on the River
Activity: Full Day Private Guided Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Boston & Depart
Day 9
Today, enjoy a final scenic drive back to Boston, reflecting on the landscapes and experiences of your New England journey. As you travel south, consider taking a stroll in the lively town of Brattleboro, known for its welcoming town square, and excellent local farmers market, perhaps picking up a last Vermont treat for the road. Return your rental car in Boston before boarding your flight home. With memories of coastal villages, mountain drives, farm-fresh flavors, and brilliant fall landscapes, your adventure comes to a rewarding close.
Transportation: Self-drive 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Why Travel With Us?
Expertly crafted adventures—thoughtfully designed itineraries shaped by deep destination knowledge and led by trusted local guides.
Personalized, seamless travel—custom trips tailored to your interests, pace, and style, with expert planning and smooth logistics handled every step of the way.
Authentic, unforgettable experiences—meaningful outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, and insider access that bring each destination to life.
Know Before You Book
Itinerary: Please review your personalized itinerary carefully, as activities, accommodations, and included meals may vary from the sample itinerary shown online. Depending on your program, some experiences may be self-drive, with expert guides available along the way, while others are fully escorted and have the same driver/guide throughout.
Custom journeys are thoughtfully designed for a personalized experience, and adjustments may occur due to availability, logistics, seasonal considerations, or other factors. If you have any questions at any point, please don't hesitate to reach out—we're always happy to help.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Local Tour Guide .
We work with only the most experienced and knowledgeable local guides on our trips. You will be in excellent hands with a fully licensed and accredited local guide who will share their expertise in everything from history and architecture, to culture and traditions, the best local cuisine, activities and crafts, or even shopping. Local guides live, breathe, and love their trips because as locals they are an integral part of their communities. Their connections run deep and pride in their piece of the world is contagious.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 2. Guests can expect a moderately active adventure with a mix of guided walking tours, hiking, scenic drives, horseback riding, and culinary adventures. You should be comfortable walking on riverside trails, rural roads, and city streets to get the most out of this adventure.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
Shared Guided History Tour
Day 2
Shared Portland City Tour
Day 3
Full Day Private Guided Park Tour
Day 4
Shared 3-hour tour
Day 5
1-hour Private Guided Horseback Ride
Day 6
Private or Shared Tours
Day 7
Private Guided Tour
Day 8
Full Day Private Guided Tour
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Curated accommodations offering a diverse range of stays, moving from the historic city hotels, refined coastal seaside resorts to the sleek, boutique retreats.
Weather
Variable and unpredictable. Expect daytime temps in the mid-60's and colder at night. Be prepared for rain any time of the year.
FAQs
After picking up your self-secured rental car in Boston, MA or Portland, ME, you'll be provided with everything you need to set off on your road trip through beautiful New England. Prefer to leave the driving to someone else? Ask us about designing a trip with a through guide.
There’s no single “best” month—New England shines year round. The best time to go depends on whether you’re dreaming of coastal summers, colorful autumns, festive winters, or peaceful springtime exploration.
Fall is famous for crisp air, harvest festivals, and spectacular foliage that transforms the countryside into postcard perfect scenery. Best for: fall colors, scenic drives, hiking, photography, and cozy inns.
Winter offers a quieter, atmospheric side of New England with snowy villages, holiday charm, and excellent skiing in the mountains. Best for: skiing, winter scenery, festive escapes, and crowd free sightseeing.
Spring is fresh and uncrowded, with blooming gardens, lively historic towns, and cooler temperatures that are ideal for walking cities and scenic drives. Best for: history lovers, gardens, city exploration, and shoulder season travel.
Summer delivers classic New England energy with warm weather, long days, seaside dining, sailing, and peak season on Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. Best for: beaches, islands, family travel, and iconic coastal experiences.
Pack lightweight layers, sturdy walking shoes, and a light jacket or winter coat for cooler evenings and high-elevation activities. A detailed packing list will be supplied prior to travel.
Boston Harbor Sunset Sail
Culinary Walking Tours
Lobster Boat Experience
Sea Kayaking
Whale watching cruise
Photography Tours
Biking or eBiking Tours
Private Clam Bake
Additional Guided Hiking
Scenic Gondola Rides
Fly Fishing
Cheese & maple syrup artisan tour
Falconry experience




