New England in fall rail journey

Fly to Boston, where you will check into your hotel for the night. Boston is not only the capital of Massachusetts and New England’s largest city; it is also one of the oldest cities in the United States, boasting a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of historic attractions. Famously the birthplace for the War of Independence, today Boston is a delightful mix of futuristic skyscrapers and fascinating history.

Enjoy a guided tour, taking in the main sights of a city known for its ‘old world’ charm with parts of the famed Freedom Trail. Drive through the Back Bay area, past the historic USS Constitution to Copley Square and Beacon Hill. In the afternoon join Amtrak’s Downeaster service for the trip North through beautiful New England to Portland, Maine. Then continue by coach into the White Mountains, one of North America’s most beautiful landscapes. Your journey takes you through Maine and New Hampshire during their golden season, when the trees are stunning shades of red and orange. Arrive in North Conway, where you will spend three nights.

You’re free to relax or explore Cape Cod and the surrounding region. Named for its peculiar shape, Cape Cod offers scenic beauty year-round. Martha’s Vineyard, a famous summer resort popular with New England’s wealthy population, is a short ferry ride away. ‘Vineyarders’, as the island’s residents are known, are fiercely protective of the island’s traditions and heritage; the usual ‘big business’ franchises have yet to make an impression here, so Martha’s Vineyard has the look and feel of a bygone age, making it fascinating to discover.

Discover Rhode Island, a place known for its sandy beaches and Colonial-era seaside towns. Head to fashionable Newport, long since a destination for affluent visitors for a tour of one of its most famous mansions. The Breakers was built in 1895 as a summer home for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a member of the wealthy Vanderbilt family. Today, the Italian Renaissance-style home is a National Historic Landmark. Continue to the Mystic Seaport Museum, an outdoor museum that recreates a 19th century New England whaling village. Strolling along the re-imagined waterfront, enjoy a unique glimpse back in time. 

Enjoy a ferry to Nantucket, home to dune-backed beaches, cedar-shingled buildings, high-end boutiques and steepled churches. Take a walking tour, strolling down the quaint, cobblestoned Main Street and see its most important sights. Nantucket’s Main Street is a place that exemplifies mid-19th century America, with pristine period houses and old-fashioned shops. After the tour, you have a free afternoon. You could pay a visit to the town’s Whaling Museum, where you’ll find over a thousand works of art, artefacts and treasures on display, telling the story of the island’s history.

Return to the city of Boston, where there’s some free time for some final explorations. You could visit the city’s Public Garden, the oldest in the USA and a delight to stroll around. Perhaps enjoy a taste of the USA with a bite to eat. There are some wonderful classically Boston dishes you could sample, including Boston baked beans and Boston cream pie. Typical New England fare like lobster rolls and clam chowder are also popular in the city. In the evening, bid farewell to the city as you board your flight home.

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.

You arrive back in the UK today and your holiday comes to an end.