Fall Season, Vermont Maple Fall Foliage 2-Day Tour from New York

If you’re dreaming about seeing the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds of Vermont in autumn, this Fall Season, Vermont Maple Fall Foliage 2-Day Tour from New York might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken it myself, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This experience promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, interesting historical stops, and the kind of small-group attention that can make a trip feel special.

One thing I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with a touch of history and local flavor. Plus, the inclusion of guided commentary in both English and Chinese is a nice touch for diverse groups. On the flip side, it’s a fairly packed itinerary for just two days, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, some stops might feel rushed. This tour seems ideal for those who want a quick, well-organized glimpse of Vermont’s fall colors, especially if you value engaging guides and a variety of viewpoints.

Here’s my honest take: If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Vermont’s iconic foliage along with some key cultural and scenic highlights, this tour offers solid value. Just be prepared for early mornings, and keep an eye on the weather if you want the best leaf-viewing experience. Great for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive snapshot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Vermont’s famous fall colors are the star, especially with stops at iconic spots like Stratton Mountain.
• Historical Highlights: Visits to the Lincoln family estate and Fort Ticonderoga add a rich layer of history to the trip.
• Guided Experience: The bilingual guides offer lively stories, making the journey more engaging.
• Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door transportation, hotel stays, and included snacks help make the trip smooth.
• Value for Money: For around $316, you get multiple attractions, scenic drives, and a memorable experience.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Limited to 55 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, but expect a fairly full schedule.

A Closer Look: What the Tour Offers

This 2-day journey from Brooklyn to Vermont offers a well-rounded look at the region’s natural beauty, history, and culture. It’s designed for travelers who want a taste of everything — stunning landscapes, historic sites, and mountain panoramas — all wrapped into a manageable two-day trip.

Day 1: Scenic Sights and Historic Sites

Starting early at 6:30 am (so be prepared for an early start), you’ll hop on a comfortable vehicle with a professional driver and guide. The goal is to maximize your sightseeing time while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable.

Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is your first stop. This is a favorite for many visitors, mainly because of its sweeping views of the Hudson River. It’s a free, one-hour walk across one of the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridges — an impressive feat of engineering with fantastic photo ops. The guide will likely share stories about the bridge’s history, making it more than just a walk.

Next, you’ll visit Fort Ticonderoga, an 18th-century star-shaped fort built by the French. While the admission is not included, the site itself offers a glimpse into early American and French colonial history. The 1.5-hour visit (or so) provides a chance to explore the grounds and imagine life in those times. From what reviews suggest, travelers find the stop worthwhile, especially if they enjoy historical sites and scenic lake views.

Day 2: Vermont’s Rich Heritage and Mountain Vistas

The second day begins with a visit to Robert Todd Lincoln’s residence, which houses a museum of historical exhibitions. It’s a free stop, lasting about 1.5 hours, that offers insights into the Lincoln family’s life and legacy.

Then, you’ll visit Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, in Manchester. This grand estate, once the summer residence of Robert Todd Lincoln, offers a glimpse into 19th-century luxurious life. For those interested in history and architecture, this stop is a highlight, and although the admission fee isn’t included, the experience is often valued for its scenic gardens and preserved interiors.

The crown jewel of the trip is the Stratton Mountain Resort. Riding the gondola to the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views stretching across four states, including the White Mountains and Adirondacks. This part of the tour is perfect for photography lovers and those who appreciate mountain vistas, especially during peak foliage season. With about 1.5 hours allocated, it’s a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air and take in the sweeping scenery.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $316 per person, the package includes transportation, a guide, overnight accommodation in a boutique or scenic hotel, bottled water, snacks, and certain attraction admissions—specifically Fort Ticonderoga, the Lincoln sites, and the gondola ride if you choose that package. The inclusion of a travel passport with stamps adds a fun, collectible element that might appeal to seasoned travelers or those who enjoy unique keepsakes.

You’ll want to budget extra for meals, as food isn’t included, and for any additional attractions or souvenirs. The tour guide mentions that they can help arrange meals, which is helpful if you’re not familiar with the area.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Beautiful fall scenery at prime spots like Stratton Mountain and along the lake views.
– Interesting historical stops that add depth to the trip, especially if you like American history.
– Bilingual guides make the experience accessible to more travelers and add lively storytelling.
– Comfortable transportation and hotel stays ensure a relaxed journey.
– Good value for a packed itinerary, especially considering the included attractions.

Cons:
– The schedule can feel a bit rushed, with many stops packed into just two days.
– Some reviews indicate that the guide’s timing may be strict, and being late could cause issues.
– Since some attractions’ admission fees are not included, you might want to prepare for extra costs.
– Weather can impact the foliage viewing, so timing and forecast checks are recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a comprehensive, organized way to see Vermont’s fall colors without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a great fit for first-timers, couples, or small groups who enjoy history, scenic views, and a bit of adventure. If you’re someone who appreciates guides who tell stories and share insights, you’ll likely enjoy the lively commentary.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, unstructured travel or want to explore at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy mixing nature with history and don’t mind early mornings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically highlight family-friendly features, children over 6 who can sit comfortably on a bus should be fine. For very young kids, it’s best to check with the company about booster seat policies, especially if using different vehicles.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there will be some walking. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, along with sun protection like hats and sunglasses. The tour provides bottled water and snacks, but bringing extra cash or a card for meals or souvenirs is wise.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Are the attractions’ admission fees included?
Some, like Fort Ticonderoga, the Lincoln site, and the gondola ride, are included if you choose that option. Other attractions may require separate admission, which you should be prepared for.

Is the tour worth the price?
Considering the sightseeing, guides, hotel stay, and included attractions, many find the value fair. The experience offers a good mix of natural beauty and history for the cost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a quick escape to see Vermont’s iconic fall foliage, this 2-day tour from New York offers an efficient and enjoyable way to do it. The focus on scenic views, historical sites, and guided storytelling makes it especially appealing for those who want a blend of nature and culture without the stress of planning.

The tour’s highlights — especially Stratton Mountain’s panoramic vistas and the historic sites — are likely to leave lasting impressions. While the schedule can be tight, most travelers seem satisfied with the overall experience. Just remember to bring your camera, dress warmly, and stay flexible with timing.

This tour is a solid pick if you appreciate well-organized trips that pack a lot into a short timeframe, making it easier to tick Vermont’s fall colors off your bucket list.

Happy leaf-peeping!