Compare New England in the Fall by Great Rail Journeys vs New England's Fall Foliage Small Group by Insight Vacations

DAY 1 - LONDON TO CAPE COD
Cape Cod
We depart London Heathrow for Boston Airport, from where we transfer to the town of Falmouth on Cape Cod. Named for its peculiar shape, Cape Cod is a popular summer resort and offers stunning scenic beauty yearround. Our base for the next three nights is either the family-run Shoreway Acres Inn, or The Inn on the Square. Both are ideally located just a short stroll from the beach in Falmouth's historic district.

DAY 2 - CAPE COD AT LEISURE
Cape Cod harbour
Our first full day in New England is free to explore Cape Cod and the surrounding region at leisure. You could remain in Falmouth itself, enjoying the pristine beaches, historic buildings and green parkland. Alternatively, you could take a bus to nearby Hyannis, which has long been a summer getaway location. Here you can visit the John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum and the John F Kennedy Memorial, or enjoy classic retail therapy in the Main Street Waterfront District. The popular district of Provincetown is also a hive of activity for those interested in the arts as there is an abundance of galleries and exhibits here.

DAY 3 - MARTHA’S VINEYARD
Martha's Vineyard
Today's excursion begins with a morning departure by ferry to Martha's Vineyard, a summer resort for New England's wealthy population. "Vineyarders", as the island's residents are known, are fiercely protective of the island's traditions and heritage, giving Martha's Vineyard the look and feel of a bygone age. The usual 'big business' franchises have yet to make an impression anywhere in the resort. A coach takes us on a tour of the island, introducing us to the main sights. We travel to 'upisland', the sparsely-populated and sleepy towns to the west, and 'down-island', the busy and fashionable eastern half of the Vineyard, where Oak Bluffs, Edgartown and Vineyard Haven lure the rich and famous.

DAY 4 - TO THE WHITE MOUNTAINS
White Mountains
This morning we transfer to Boston, and join Amtrak's Downeaster service for the journey north. Named after the sailing vessels built by Maine's shipbuilders, the Downeaster takes us on a 116-mile journey through beautiful New England to Portland, Maine. From here we continue by coach into the White Mountains, one of North America's most beautiful landscapes. Our journey takes us through Maine and New Hampshire during their golden season, as a breathtaking tapestry of colour, from deep, dark reds to delicate, pale yellows, lines the route. We arrive in North Conway, where we spend three nights at the North Conway Grand Hotel.

DAY 5 - MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILWAY
Mount Washington Cog Railway
This morning we board the Mount Washington Cog Railway - the world's first cog railway. It opened in 1869 and climbs the 6,228ft (1,898m) up Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Eastern States. During the fascinating steam-hauled journey, we enjoy a short stop at the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding White Mountain Range.

DAY 6 - THE NORTH CONWAY SCENIC RAILROAD
North Conway Scenic Railroad
Today we enjoy a round trip on board North Conway's Scenic Railroad 'Notch Train'. We relive the legend written in the annals of railroad history as we follow a route first taken by train over 132 years ago. We pass some of the finest natural scenery in New England as the train takes us through the spectacular scenery of Crawford Notch - past sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and panoramic mountain vistas. The experience is truly breathtaking during the autumn season, as New Hampshire's scenery is covered in a stunning blanket of dark red, yellow and brown. We cross the Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge en route to Crawford Depot. Live commentary during the journey helps to give an insight into the history and folklore of the railroad and its route.

DAY 7 - VIA SALEM TO BOSTON
Quincy Market
This morning we leave North Conway, travelling by coach on a scenic route through New Hampshire to Boston. During the journey we stop in the historic city of Salem, renowned for the infamous Salem Witch Trials, one of America's darker chapters that took place in the seventeenth century. On our arrival in Boston we check in to our hotel for a two-night stay. The rest of your day is free to explore Boston at leisure. The city's Public Gardens are the oldest in the USA and are a delight to stroll around, whilst the New England Aquarium is home to over 2,000 species of aquatic life, including sharks, seals and penguins. The JFK library has several exhibits dedicated to the city's most famous son. The city also has a wealth of museums and art galleries to visit.

DAY 8 - BOSTON SIGHTSEEING TOUR AND WHALE WATCHING
Boston
Today we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Boston, taking in the main sights of a city known for its 'old world' charm. Our tour takes in selected parts of the city's famed Freedom Trail. We travel through the Back Bay past the historic USS Constitution, to Copley Square and Beacon Hill, for an insight into stylish Boston's history. This afternoon we make our way to Boston Harbour for an afternoon whale-watching excursion by high-speed catamaran. The three outside viewing decks offer superb views as we track Humpback, Finback and Minke whales, as well as White Sided Dolphins. An informative commentary is provided throughout by researchers from the Whale Centre of New England.

DAYS 9-10 - BOSTON TO LONDON
Flying home
Our final day of the tour begins with a free morning in Boston before we begin our journey home. We transfer to Logan International Airport, where we board our flight back to London, arriving on Day 10.
Please note that outside of the main fall season (mid September - mid October), the fall foliage is unlikely to be as visible, however the attractions of the area are delightful at any time.

Day 1: Welcome to Boston

Affectionately known as Beantown, this revolutionary city is one of the oldest in the United States. On arrival at Boston Logan International Airport, a transfer will take you to your centrally located hotel, which is situated next to Boston Common, the city's largest park. After settling in, perhaps take a stroll to Downtown Crossing or historic Faneuil Hall. For those looking to shop, Quincy Market offers big brands and local products, set indoors and surrounding the columns of a regal 19th century building. At 18:00, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with wine and an opportunity to mingle with fellow guests at your hotel.

Day 2: Beantown to Saratoga Springs

Today you’ll discover some of Boston’s most famous sights as you delve into the city’s transformative past. You’ll follow part of the red-brick Freedom Trail that brings the story of the American Revolution to life. Sights include Beacon Hill, Newbury Street, Faneuil Hall Marketplace and the Old South Meeting House. This afternoon, explore Stockbridge with an Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum, home to the largest and most significant collection of original Rockwell art. Alternatively, choose to take a guided tour of Chesterwood, the former summer home and studio of renowned 20th century sculptor Daniel Chester French. Travel on through the rolling hills of the Berkshires to your boutique hotel. Tucked away in the heart of Williamstown, this beautiful property is a prime example of timeless elegance.

Day 3: The Legends of the Fall and Stowe

Say goodbye to Massachusetts and journey through the bronze fall foliage of Vermont. Visit the Vermont Country Store for a unique shopping experience - you'll step back into history with their nostalgic assortment of products. Explore the Rockefellers' renowned Billings Farm and Museum, a captivating working dairy and farm life museum, followed by a stop in the quintessential Vermont village of Woodstock with its picturesque, covered bridge. End your day in the northern Vermont town of Stowe, home to the breathtaking alpine setting that attracted the real Von Trapp family of "The Sound of Music." Enjoy Austrian-style lagers during your Highlight Dinner at Bierhall Restaurant, followed by a tour of the on-site microbrewery.

Day 4: A Taste of Vermont Relaxed Start

Enjoy Vermont’s beautiful scenery ablaze with fall’s golden red colours. Experience a guided tour of the Ben and Jerry's Factory and get behind the scenes of their iconic flavours. Return to the enchanting town of Stowe where the rest of the day is yours. From wandering its quaint streets to hiking in the woods or relaxing back at your lodge, make the most of your last evening at this mountain resort.

Day 5: North Conway and the White Mountains

Move on to Vermont’s pretty capital, Montpelier. You'll travel to Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, where maple syrup is "tapped" from the trees. Taste a Vermont tradition, the unusually named ‘sugar on snow’, which is maple syrup drizzled over packed snow. This tasty treat is traditionally served with a doughnut and pickle. Journey to New Hampshire’s White Mountains and enter striking Franconia Notch. Take a scenic ride on the Gondola SkyRide at Loon Mountain Resort. On a clear day, you'll have superb panoramic views of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York and Canada. Later, journey through the dazzling crimson and orange hues of the famed Kancamagus Scenic Byway to North Conway. This spectacular section of Route 112 is unspoiled by industry and boasts 34.5 miles of untouched natural beauty.

Day 6: Sightseeing in the White Mountains Relaxed Start

In the morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you enjoy an insightful talk by a naturalist on the North Woods' wildlife and ecology. Expert Chris Lewey is the Executive Director and Founder of Raven Interpretive Programs. He holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies and will be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Then, more spectacular fall foliage awaits as you journey through Crawford Notch, an arresting pass through the White Mountains. Stop for pictures at the Silver Cascade Waterfall and Bretton Woods, which offers stunning views of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the northeast at 6,288 feet (1,917 metres). Your Travel Director will guide you on a scenic hike to Diana's Baths, which features a series of small cascading waterfalls. Return to your hotel where you can enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 7: The Rugged Maine Coast Relaxed Start

Cross from New Hampshire into Maine this morning as you visit the jagged coastline and Portland Head Light on the spectacular shores of Fort Williams Park. This popular landmark is one of the most visited lighthouses in the country and is the oldest lighthouse in the state. Explore the historic town of Cape Elizabeth, then spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Celebration Dinner featuring Maine lobster with your fellow travellers.

Day 8: Back to Boston

Known for its sandy beaches, Kennebunkport is a year-round coastal destination that houses the rich and famous, even serving as the summer retreat of former President George H.W. Bush. Travel along Ocean Drive with more stunning views of the Maine coastline, before driving back to Boston. Guests departing Boston will arrive at Boston Logan International Airport at 12:30. Those extending their stay will return to the Hyatt Regency Boston hotel.