If you’re dreaming of an autumn escape that combines scenic views, charming rural spots, and a dash of local history, the Autumn Tour in New England might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty inviting picture. It’s designed as a relaxed, full-day journey through Rhode Island’s picturesque countryside, with plenty of opportunities to capture the season’s vibrant hues and experience some authentic local flavor.
What really caught our eye is how many travelers rave about their guides—they’re described as knowledgeable and engaging, making the stops even more meaningful. Plus, the variety of stops—from a historic covered bridge to a horse-drawn hayride—keeps things interesting. One thing to note, though, is that the tour is quite packed in terms of activities, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of everything and don’t mind a full day out. If you’re after a peaceful, slow-paced nature retreat, this might not be your perfect fit. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded, fun-filled day exploring Rhode Island’s rural charm, this tour could be a great pick.
Key Points
- Scenic Fall Views: The tour offers an opportunity to see Rhode Island’s countryside dressed in autumn’s best colors.
- Variety of Stops: From a historic covered bridge to apple picking, the itinerary covers a lot of ground.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides who are friendly and well-informed about local history and sites.
- Family-Friendly Activities: With farm visits, hayrides, and apple picking, it’s suitable for travelers of all ages.
- Value for Price: At $100 a person, the tour includes nearly all attractions, making it a solid deal for a full day out.
- Flexible Cancellation: You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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Stop 1: Scituate Reservoir
The tour kicks off at the Scituate Reservoir, which supplies most of Rhode Island’s drinking water. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but it’s a nice way to get your first glimpse of the natural landscape. The reservoir is covered with fall foliage, offering some great photo opportunities right from the start. Since there’s no admission fee, it’s a straightforward way to enjoy the scenery and learn a bit about the local water source.
Stop 2: Foster’s Historic Spots and High Points
Next, you’ll visit some of Rhode Island’s most distinctive sites in Foster. The Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge is the last of its kind on a public road in the state, which makes it a charming and historically meaningful stop. It’s perfect for snapping some photos or just soaking in the rustic vibe.
Then, there’s Jerimoth Hill, Rhode Island’s highest point. While it’s just a small elevation, it offers a quiet spot to enjoy panoramic views and breathe in some fresh autumn air. The group typically spends about 15 minutes here, so don’t expect a lengthy hike, but it’s worth the quick stop.
The Groundwater Cafe provides a solid opportunity to stretch and grab a snack or drink. This stop is longer—about an hour—giving you time to walk around, browse local shops, or simply relax and take in the rural atmosphere.
Stop 3: Glocester’s Historic Charm
In Glocester, you’ll explore Chepachet village and visit the Brown & Hopkins Country Store, the oldest such store in Rhode Island. If you enjoy antique shopping or just wandering through a quaint rural town, this is a highlight. The store’s history and charming setting add to the sense of stepping back in time.
Stop 4: Burrillville’s Farm Fun
A highlight for many is the Liberty Farm, where you’ll hop on a horse-drawn hayride through the woodland. The ride is a laid-back way to enjoy the fall colors and the crisp air. Plus, meeting farm animals adds a hands-on element that makes this stop memorable. The guide’s friendly narration and the scenic ride are often praised, making it clear this is a favorite among guests.
Stop 5: Apple Picking at Dame Farm
The tour wraps up with apple picking at Dame Farm in Johnston. It’s a classic New England activity, and if you’re visiting during apple season, it’s a lovely way to end the day. The 45-minute stop lets you get your own fresh apples or simply enjoy the farm’s surroundings.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The guided nature of the tour really helps to elevate the experience. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are—one even described Ted as incredible and very knowledgeable. This makes a difference when you’re learning about local history, scenic spots, or farm life.
Another big plus is the variety packed into a single day. You move through a mix of natural scenery, historic sites, and farm activities, giving you a well-rounded taste of Rhode Island’s rural charm. The horse-drawn hayride and apple picking are particularly well-loved and add a tactile, authentic element to the trip.
The price point is also quite reasonable. For $100, you’re getting nearly all the attractions included, with only lunch purchased separately. Considering the full-day itinerary and numerous stops, many travelers find it to be good value.
Things to Keep in Mind
While many reviews are glowing, there are a couple of things to consider. The tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour depends on good weather, it’s worth planning for a clear day. If the weather turns bad, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
The group size is limited to 28 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable. This is a plus if you prefer a more personal experience, but it’s also good to book in advance (most travelers book about 15 days ahead) to secure your spot.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those curious about Rhode Island’s rural side. If you enjoy seeing fall foliage, historic sites, and farm activities all in one day, it hits the right notes. It’s also a great choice for families or groups of friends looking for a fun, active day out—especially if you appreciate guided commentary.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking a leisurely, slow-paced experience or those looking for a deep dive into Rhode Island’s history or culture—this is more about enjoying a scenic, relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and light activities.
Final Thoughts
The Autumn Tour in New England offers a genuinely charming way to see Rhode Island’s countryside in fall. With friendly guides, a good mix of scenic views, historic sites, and farm fun, it’s a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of a New England autumn. The price is reasonable considering the number of stops and activities included, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.
If you’re after a day of easy exploration with plenty of opportunities for photos and local flavor, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s a wonderful way to embrace the season’s colors and learn about some of Rhode Island’s hidden gems—all with a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Autumn Tour in New England
“Great tour guide, so knowledgeable! Interesting route, many stops, all fun. Liked the horse drawn hay ride”
FAQ
Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a guided bus ride through the Rhode Island countryside, with pickup offered, making it convenient to get from spot to spot.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
All attractions are included in the $100 price, from the stops at historic sites to farm activities and scenic views.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 15 days ahead to secure their spot, as the tour has a maximum of 28 travelers.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time and receive a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the activities like apple picking and hayrides are generally family-friendly and suitable for kids.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your camera to capture the beautiful fall scenery.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is purchased separately. There are stops where you can buy food or snacks along the way.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re looking for a day of relaxed exploration, stunning fall views, and a taste of Rhode Island’s rural life, this tour could be just right. It’s a neat way to experience New England’s autumn charm without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.