A Local’s Guide to a Weeklong NH Getaway for Leaf Peeping 🍁

If you’ve been dreaming of crisp fall air, colorful leaves, and small-town charm, this New Hampshire fall road trip is for you. Over six days, you’ll wind through scenic highways, explore mountain trails, cozy up at local inns, and stop in some of the prettiest spots in the state—all at the perfect time for peak foliage.

From the White Mountains to the North Country and down to the coast, there’s something beautiful around every corner. Think pancake breakfasts, covered bridges, moose sightings (if you’re lucky!), and views that are straight out of a postcard.

You'll find peak foliage in the following regions during the following dates

• Great North Woods (incl. Dixville & Errol): Late September to early October

• The White Mountains: First 1–2 weeks of October

• Lakes Region: Mid October

• Southern & Coastal New Hampshire: Mid to late October

Details

*Prices below are based on double occupancy

Round-Trip Flights to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)

Dates: 09/29 - 10/06

Weeklong Self-Drive Itinerary in New Hampshire

🍁 Day One & Two (September 29–30): Pick Up the Rental & Head North to North Conway, NH

Begin your adventure with a scenic 2-hour and 15-minute drive north to the lively mountain town of North Conway. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, this charming hub offers an abundance of local shops, cozy cafés, and delicious restaurants.

Don’t miss:

• A scenic meal at Ledges Restaurant with panoramic views of the fall colors.

• A ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which climbs to the tallest peak in the Northeast along the Appalachian Trail.

• A visit to Crawford Notch, where dramatic cliffs and vibrant foliage await.

Traveling with little ones? Make a detour to Story Land, a whimsical amusement park perfect for a fun-filled family day.

🏨 Accommodation:

Green Granite Inn – from $166 per night

(Estimated $166 per person for two nights)

🍂 Day Three (October 1): Venture Further North to New Hampshire’s North Country

Hit the road for a stunning 1-hour and 45-minute drive through Grafton Notch and the scenic 13 Mile Woods, where moose sightings are common. Your destination: the peaceful town of Errol, NH.

Highlights:

• Check into the warm and welcoming Damm House Inn

• Grab a casual bite at the on-site café

• Take a short 10-minute drive to Dixville Notch for a hike up Table Rock, where panoramic views stretch across the notches

🏨 Accommodation:

Damm House Inn – from $125 per night

(Approximately $75 per person)

🏞️ Day Four & Five (October 2–3): Explore Sugar Hill, Littleton & the White Mountains

Head 1 hour and 40 minutes southwest to the postcard-perfect village of Sugar Hill. Start your morning at the beloved Polly’s Pancake Parlor, renowned for, of course, its pancakes and stunning mountain views.

After fueling up, venture into the White Mountain National Forest for a hike to Artist Bluff, an iconic overlook offering panoramic fall views. Later, take the short 14-minute drive north to Littleton, where a vibrant main street is lined with local boutiques, eateries, and the famous Chutters Candy Counter—home to the world's longest candy display!

This area offers plenty of things to see and do, making it an ideal base for a two-night stay.

🏨 Accommodation:

Sunset Hill House – from $184 per night

(Approx. $184 per person for two nights)

🚗 Day Six (October 4): Lakes Region & the Iconic Kancamagus Highway

Begin your journey south with a 1-hour and 25-minute drive to Laconia, passing through the legendary Kancamagus Highway—a highlight of any New England fall road trip.

Along the way:

• Visit the majestic Flume Gorge, where towering granite walls and waterfalls

• Discover charming covered bridges dotting the landscape

🏨 Accommodation:

Windrifter Resort – from $165 per night

(Approx. $83 per person)

🌊 Day Seven (October 5): Finish at the Coast in Portsmouth, NH

Wrap up your journey with a 1-hour and 20-minute drive southeast to the coastal gem of Portsmouth. This picturesque harbor town is bursting with colonial charm, lively restaurants, and boutique shops.

Must-do experiences:

• Feast on fresh New England chowder at Geno’s Chowder & Sandwich Shop

• Grab a flaky popover and artisan coffee at Popovers on the Square

• Step back in time at the Strawbery Banke Museum, featuring preserved colonial homes and immersive exhibits

🏨 Accommodation:

Best Western Plus Portsmouth – from $102 per night

(Approx. $51 per person)

Additional Information

All of our deals are available at the time of publishing, but prices are subject to fluctuations and changes at any time.

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