The Best New England Towns to Visit on Your Fall Road Trip

As the lazy days of summer end and we find ourselves back in the daily grind of school and work, a rejuvenating road trip through the natural beauty of New England may be just what we need.

There are so many beautiful landscapes, quaint villages, and resort communities nestled within New England (and neighboring Quebec) that the options are truly endless. So we’re here to eliminate some of the decision paralysis and lay out the best New England towns to visit this fall.

In this article, we’ll tell you exactly where to stay and what to do along your journey through the Northeast. Whether you follow our advice to a T or venture off on your own path, here is a little inspiration for your next New England road trip (with a bonus stop in Canada’s Eastern Townships).

Nature awaits – should we have an adventure?

NEW ENGLAND & QUEBEC ROAD TRIP AT A GLANCE

For our New England road trip, we’ve selected towns that are easily driveable from Boston, New York, and other major cities in the Northeast. That way, whether you’re escaping for a full week or just a weekend, you’ll be able to visit these amazing towns.

Here’s a snapshot of the itinerary for our ultimate fall road trip through the Northeast:

Bethel, Maine
Orford, Quebec, Canada
North Woodstock, New Hampshire
Manchester, Vermont

We’ll give you our recommendations for things to do, spots to eat, and places to stay – all with input from local experts – so you can plan the best road trip this fall.

PLANING A NEW ENGLAND TRIP

Before diving into the specifics of our New England towns, here are a few tips to help plan your trip.

When to Go on a New England Road Trip

No matter what time of year you’re planning a New England road trip, there’s something magical about each season.

In the summer, you’ll have long, sunny days to explore every nook and cranny of your destinations. Sparkling lakes and meandering rivers, lots of hiking and biking trails, golf and fishing, and plentiful outdoor activities. In winter, snow-capped mountains provide endless opportunities for Nordic adventures like skiing, sledding, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and more. In the spring, the mountains come to life with so much greenery you’ll be blown away.

But for this road trip, we’d recommend the fall. There is nothing quite like witnessing New England fall foliage in person. The landscape of vibrant autumn hues from crimson to orange to bright yellow, accompanied by crisp fall weather, is something to experience for yourself.

For prime leaf peeping, visit this region in mid-September to mid-October. You can always check a fall foliage tracker for the exact location you’ll be visiting before planning your trip.

How Long to go on a New England Road Trip

We’d suggest at least one week to fully dive into each location on this fall road trip itinerary. Our itinerary allows for two nights in each location to give you time to settle in between drives (and admire the picturesque landscape).

But really, if you choose one location on this itinerary and venture away from the city even for just a weekend, a road trip through the Northeast and Quebec will not disappoint.

What to Pack for Your New England Road Trip

Of course this isn’t a full list, as each person travels differently. But here are a few essentials to consider packing to make your fall road trip easier and more enjoyable:

Comfortable shoes and clothing
Jacket or sweatshirt
sandals or water shoes
Bathing suit (for the Nordic spas along the route!)
Water bottle
Snacks
Sunscreen
Bug repellent
Camera/cell phone
First aid kit
Emergency vehicle kit

STOP 1: BETHEL, MAINE

The first stop on our Northeast road trip is Bethel, Maine. Known as Maine’s most beautiful mountain village, Bethel has a small, walkable downtown with quaint shops and cozy cafes. It also has close proximity to Sunday River ski resort, frequently rated the best skiing in New England. In the fall, the weather is perfect for the unlimited outdoor recreation around Bethel.

Where to Stay in Bethel, Maine

🏡 The Maine Cabins

📍 99 Merriman Road, Bethel, Maine

Designed and hosted by a couple who want nothing more than to share their beautiful Maine homes with those looking to escape city life, The Maine Cabins are luxury accommodations with ideal locations for exploring Bethel and the surrounding area. Their beautiful custom-built A-frame is the most luxurious home in Bethel. Just 3 minutes outside of downtown Bethel, it’s set on a private 6-acre wooded lot with beautiful views, and its thoughtful design and aesthetic will leave you speechless when you walk in.

Things to Do in Bethel, Maine in Autumn

👓 Sunday River Bridge

📍 Sunday River, Newry, ME 04261

One of our favorite spots to visit is the Sunday River Covered Bridge, known locally as the Artists Bridge. Located in the nearby town of Newry, just northeast of the Sunday River Ski Resort, the bridge earned its nickname because it’s widely known as the most photographed and painted of Maine’s covered bridges. It’s worth a stop to be a part of history and take your own picture here.

🎥 Gem Theater

📍 48 Cross St, Bethel, ME 04217

A local independent movie theater, The Gem shows the latest box office hits and independent films as well as hosting events to connect the Bethel community with the arts. Grab some popcorn or pizza and wine or beer (all served at the theater) and enjoy the show.

🥾 Outdoor Recreation

📍 Bethel, ME

If outdoor recreation is your thing, you’ll love the endless hiking and biking trails near Bethel. You can also venture out on horseback, rent an ATV, or go for a scenic drive on your way to your next destination. Fishing, kayaking, and golfing are other great activities to enjoy in the fall.

🛍️ Downtown Bethel

📍 Bethel, ME

Beyond the great outdoors, you’ll love strolling through the quaint downtown, where you can peruse local shops, stop in a museum, or pamper yourself at a spa. In Bethel, you’ll find bowling, a movie theater, and even a casino to keep you entertained.

Where to Eat in Bethel, Maine

🍽️ Gemini Cafe & Bakery

📍 96 Main St, Bethel, ME 04217

While you’re visiting Bethel, start your morning off right with a delicious breakfast from Gemini Cafe & Bakery. Enjoy a tasty breakfast sandwich or super yummy bagel, then grab a pastrami & rye for the road.

🍽️ Le Mu Eats

📍 119 Main St, Bethel, ME 04217

Le Mu Eats is a from-scratch restaurant serving Modern American cuisine with a variety of influences from Southern US to Southeast Asian that’ll keep you guessing as you sample each dish. From cornmeal breaded fish to salmon soba, there’s something totally unique about each item on the menu.

🍽️ Steam Mill Brewing

📍 96 Sunday River Rd, Bethel, ME 04217

A local craft brewery, Steam Mill Brewing serves up small-batch craft beers made with love and local ingredients. But it’s also much more than a brewery. They have a full menu to choose from, including appetizers like giant pretzels, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream. They even serve breakfast!

🍽️ Modern Barn

📍 19 Summer St, Bethel, ME 04217

Another great option in Bethel is the award-winning Modern Barn. Modern Barn is just what it sounds like – a preserved and modernized barn. Inside the renovated space, you’ll find a warm, welcoming environment where top-of-the-catch fish is served alongside an impressive collection of wine, craft beers, and cocktails.

STOP 2: ORFORD, QUEBEC, CANADA

From Bethel, we’ll drive up into Canada to the stunning town of Orford, Quebec. Okay, this one isn’t technically in New England. But just across the border, it’s definitely worth a visit. (Don’t forget your passport!) Dominated by a landscape of mountains and lakes, the views in the Eastern Townships are breathtaking. Wander through charming towns, dine at world-class restaurants, visit the Parc National du Mont-Orford, and enjoy the beauty of Lake Memphremagog. This region offers plentiful outdoor activities including golfing, mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, kayaking, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

(2.5 hour drive from Bethel, ME)

Where to Stay in Orford, Quebec

🏡 Chalets Hygge

📍 11 Rue des Hêtres, Orford, Quebec, Canada, J1X 7A4

Chalets Hygge, located in Quebec’s iconic Cheribourg community in the village of Orford, makes the perfect place to immerse yourself in the charming French-Canadian culture. Chalets Hygge has fully renovated classic Quebec 70’s cabins into warm, cozy Scandinavian-style chalets while preserving the original soul and architecture. Pets are always welcome in their turn-key chalets, which are fully stocked with many amenities and high-speed internet. Cozy outdoor living spaces cocooned in the woods beckon you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, while inviting designs, calming color schemes, and soothing scents inside will blanket you in calm and ease as you enter your chalet.

Things to Do in Orford, Quebec

🌻 Orford Tournesols

📍 1700 13e Rang, Orford, Québec, CA, J1X 7L9

At the Orford Tournesols sunflower farm, discover fields of 1 million sunflowers as you enjoy the most beautiful view of Mont-Orford amidst the majestic scenery. While there, purchase sunflowers (or seeds to grow your own), stop in the local produce store, and take a break at one of the indoor or outdoor picnic areas. When the sunflowers are in bloom, tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children, and free for those under five.

🏔️ Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises

📍 69 Chemin Roy, Magog, QC, J1X 0N4

Right in the heart of Magog, explore several kilometers of footpaths through the marshlands in the Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises, searching for the 165 species of birds found there. Or take in the view of the marsh from the observation tower, the large covered picnic area, or the long raised footbridge just a few minutes from the town center. Depending on when you visit, themed tours are offered on the trails or on the river in a kayak.

🛍️ Downtown Magog

📍Magog, Quebec

After the quiet of the Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises, spend some time in downtown Magog. With Lake Memphremagog as a backdrop, the town of Magog is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, rolling hills, friendly accommodations, and unique culinary experiences. Grab a bite to eat at numerous restaurants, then stroll through the picturesque town’s many boutiques and art galleries.

⛪ Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac

📍 1 rue Principale, Saint-Benoît-du-Lac, QC, CA

For history buffs and their companions, a visit to the Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac is sure to satisfy everyone. Built in 1912 by Benedictine monks from France, the monastery is rich in history, which you can learn about on a guided tour while taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Memphremagog. Before you leave, be sure to grab some abbey-made cheese, cider, or apple products to bring home with you.

💆‍♀️ Spa Nordic Station

📍 285 Chemin des Pères, Magog, QC, CA

The Spa Nordic Station offers a true nature retreat nestled in the heart of the forest on the shores of Castle River. Immerse yourself in the steam crypt, built in the form of a stone grotto, and the Russian banya, exclusive in the Eastern Townships. Or relax in the Californian hot tubs, Finnish saunas, Nordic waterfalls, and Castle River then warm up by the fire. You can even schedule a massage or body treatment during your visit.

🍷Au Vignoble d'Orford

📍 318 Chemin Bbice, Orford, QC, CA

Located in the heart of the region of Orford, Vignoble Orford is a stunning vineyard surrounded by mountains, including Mount Orford, Owl's Head, Mount Elephant, Jay Peak, and the majestic Lake Memphremagog. In addition to being a visual gem, all the splendors of nature contribute to offer Au Vignoble d'Orford a favorable microclimate for the growth of its 10,000 vines. Guests can enjoy a guided walking tour and tastings in an incredibly picturesque setting.

Where to Eat in Orford, Quebec

🍽️ Bistro Koz

📍 1150 Rue Principale Ouest, Magog, Québec, CA

Located on the shores of Lake Memphremagog, Bistro Kóz offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and breathtaking views as far as Vermont from its two-story outdoor terrace. Indulge in aromatic and colorful dishes inspired by Greece, Lebanon, Georgia, and Turkey accompanied by selections from the restaurant’s sommelier and mixologist.

🍽️ La Shop

📍 274 Rue Principale Est, Magog, Québec, CA

Offering delicious coffee, refined grilled cheese sandwiches, and a varied lunch menu, the modern La Shop café-bar is the perfect spot to stop for brunch while visiting downtown Magog. Intriguing artwork graces the walls and large windows flood the cafe with natural light, making for a welcoming atmosphere while you enjoy the best grilled cheese ever, made from locally sourced Quebec cheese.

🍽️ Huit5Quatre

📍 854 Chemin des Diligences, Eastman, Québec, CA, J0E 1P0

For your Friday or Saturday evening, Huit5quatre table d'hôte offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience, with ever-changing seasonal pre-fixe menus offered exclusively, one service per evening, by reservation only. Chef François Lessard infuses the menu with local ingredients and over 25 years of culinary expertise. This just may well be the best meal of your life (and we’re not exaggerating).

☕ Géogène Café

📍 538 Québec 112, Sherbrooke, Québec, CA

Established in Sherbrooke and now in Magog as well, this young micro coffee roasting company has opted for an ethical and conscientious approach at every stage of its coffee production, from the plantation to the cup. Géogène’s selections are seasonal and diverse, with a choice of about ten blends, each offering coffee lovers a unique experience.

STOP 3: NORTH WOODSTOCK, NEW HAMPSHIRE

After our adventure in Quebec, we’ll head back down to the Northeastern US for our next stop in Woodstock, New Hampshire. Set in the beautiful White Mountains, Woodstock is a quintessential small New England town with an idyllic Main Street, where you can explore local shops and restaurants

(2.5 hour drive from Orford, Quebec, Canada)

Where to Stay in North Woodstock, New Hampshire

🏕️ Lumen Nature Retreat

📍 11 Sugar Plum Ln, North Woodstock, NH, 03293

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, surrounded by water, Lumen Nature Retreat is a 20-acre luxury glamping retreat offering Nordic Cabins and Safari and A-Frame Luxury Tents. This isn’t ordinary glamping – every detail is designed to provide all the comforts of a 5-star hotel while allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. With a newly renovated, climate-controlled bathhouse, saunas, smokeless fire pits, and luxurious beds and linens, you’ll come away recharged and in awe of your experience.

Things to Do in North Woodstock, New Hampshire

🥾 Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

📍 1712 Lost River Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262

If you’re looking to explore nature, this is the perfect spot. Located in Kinsman Notch, Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves hosts a one-mile boardwalk trail that will transport you through the gorge and along the Lost River. With 11 rock-strewn glacial boulder caves to explore, cascading waterfalls, a treehouse, a suspension bridge, and a Giant Bird Nest with endless forest views, there is so much to discover here.

🚙 Kancamagus Highway Drive

📍 Kancamagus Highway

As you’re road-tripping through the Northeast, there is no shortage of scenic drives, but the 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway, aka “The Kanc,” is one not to miss. Well known as one of the best fall foliage viewing areas in the country, it cuts through the White Mountain National Forest with views of the White Mountains, the Swift River, Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, and Rocky Gorge.

🥾 Flume Gorge

📍852 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251

The Flume is a picturesque natural gorge extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty. Along the two-mile trail of packed gravel and boardwalks, you’ll traverse a scenic covered bridge, cascading waterfalls and pools, and glacial boulders. The entire loop takes about 1.5 hours and ends at the Flume Building.

Where to Eat in North Woodstock, New Hampshire

🍽️ Str Eatz

📍 942 Eastside Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262

A stationary food trailer and pop-up eatery in North Woodstock, StrEatz has won Best Food Truck in New Hampshire multiple times for its inspired menu of smoked-on-site meats, local veggies, fruits, and herbs, and house made dressings, sauces, and sides. Whether you’re in the mood for a salad, soup, sandwich, or mac-n-cheese, you’ll find something delicious at StrEatz.

🍽️ Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

📍 3 Crossing at River Place, Woodstock, NH 03262

For a unique dining experience, book a seat on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train. Leaving from North Woodstock, the two-hour train ride along the Pemi River Valley includes a 5-course dinner in a 1950s restored vintage rail car. The exquisite views are rivaled only by the delectable seasonal menu. The fall menu includes items like maple pumpkin bisque, bacon-wrapped scallops, butternut squash ravioli, and citrus dill salmon.

🍽️ Woodstock Inn Brewery

📍 135 Main St, North Woodstock, NH 03262

At the award-winning Woodstock Inn Brewery, take a tour of the new 30-barrel brewhouse, sample craft beers that are distinctly New Hampshire, and dine at the restaurant, where an extensive and delicious menu offers plentiful options for everyone in your party.

STOP 4: MANCHESTER, VERMONT

Just an hour and a half from Woodstock, the final stop on our road trip is Manchester, Vermont. Here you’ll find the estate of Abraham Lincoln’s son, the Southern Vermont Arts Center, endless outdoor activities, and incredible opportunities for leaf peeping in the Green Mountains. Downtown Manchester is packed with amazing eateries, cafes, and boutique shops. It’s also a short drive from Woodstock, Vermont, an ideal spot for a fall day trip, and a great place to stop on the way from Woodstock, New Hampshire.

(2.75 hour drive from Woodstock, NH)

Where to Stay in Manchester, Vermont

🏡 The Vermont A-Frame

📍 8 Old Snow Valley Rd Manchester Center, VT 052554

Set on the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest in Manchester, the Vermont A-Frame is a charming two-bedroom, 1.5-bath cabin perfect for those looking to gather, recharge, and enjoy the great outdoors. Cozy, clean, inviting, and bursting with character and charm, it’s filled with nostalgic touches like a record player and vinyl collection, board games, and a reading nook. You’ll love snuggling up in the A-Frame after a day exploring the Green Mountains.

Things to Do in Manchester, Vermont

📖 Northshire Bookstore

📍 4869 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255

Set in a historic building that operated as an inn for over one hundred years, the 10,000-square-foot Northshire Bookstore is a haven for those who love to browse for books. Located right in the center of Manchester, the store has an entire floor dedicated to children’s books, a full line of stationery, magazines, cards, local foods, and fine gifts, and an attached cafe serving coffee and baked goods. Book lovers could easily spend hours here.

🚙 Skyline Drive

📍 42 Skyline Drive, Arlington, VT 05250

Skyline Drive, the longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States, ascends 3,248 feet from historic Route 7A (between Manchester and Arlington) to the peak of Mount Equinox. Stop at the Skyline Drive Welcome Center to purchase your token. Along the five-mile drive, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at several vistas and picnic areas before reaching the summit, where you’ll have panoramic views of the Green Mountains, the Valley of Vermont, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Adirondack Mountains of New York, and the Taconic and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts.

🥾 Griffith Lake Hike

📍Green Mountain National Forest

A 4.5-mile out-and-back trail that ends at Griffith Lake, the Griffith Lake Trail is moderately challenging and takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete. If you enjoy hiking or fishing, this lesser-known trail is perfect for you. Along the old carriage road, you’ll pass a large beaver pond ideal for wildlife viewing, and the scenic glacial lake at the trail’s end is stocked with brook trout. Access the trail at the end of Forest Road 58 in Peru or at the end of Forest Road 30 in Mount Tabor.

🍁 The Maple Reserve

📍 4927 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

A farmer-owned store, maple cafe, and ice cream shop in one, The Maple Reserve is definitely worth a visit. In addition to coffee, hot chocolate, and bubble tea, they also serve gelato, pastries, street waffles, chimney cakes, and maple creemees. What is a maple creemee, you ask? Similar to a creamy soft serve, it’s a frozen treat that combines Vermont maple syrup with dairy, served in a cone or on a waffle. Yum.

Where to Eat in Manchester, Vermont

🍽️ The Crooked Ram

📍 4026 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont

With three unique spaces to find a table, The Crooked Ram offers a seasonal farm-to-table menu showcasing the best ingredients from Vermont and beyond. Their outdoor space, The Yard, serves delicious wood-fired pizzas, oysters, and summer vegetables in the warmer months. Inside, the dining room offers an intimate indoor experience and the bar offers small plates and charcuterie boards.

🍽️ Mystic Restaurant & Bar

📍 4928 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

If you’re in the mood for pasta, reserve a table at Mystic. In a warm, welcoming dining room, indulge in handmade pasta and pasta and inspired dishes from land and sea using locally sourced ingredients.

NORTHEAST ROAD TRIP

Whether you have a full week or just a weekend to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life this fall, a road trip to one or all of the towns we’ve highlighted will grant you access to a beautiful tapestry of nature and a chance to recharge with your favorites.

Be sure to add these to your list of New England towns to visit:

Bethel, Maine
Orford, Quebec, Canada
North Woodstock, New Hampshire
Manchester, Vermont

And check out any of the amazing businesses listed above to help plan the perfect Northeast road trip.

For a glimpse into this itinerary from those who have personally followed it, follow Maddie & Will on social @maddie_brandon and @will_zimm_

Ready to discover the magic of the Eastern Townships?

We’d be thrilled to welcome you to Chalets Hygge for your next getaway. Whether you’re here to explore, unwind, or simply enjoy the beauty of the seasons, our chalets offer the perfect escape. We hope to make your stay as warm and memorable as possible.

BOOK YOUR CHALET HYGGE

À bientôt, Kerri & Philippe 🧡