A Scenic 5-Day Fall Foliage Journey in New Hampshire
Thursday, October 5: Arrival and Drive to New Hampshire
Arrive at La Guardia Airport in the evening and rent a car for your journey to New Hampshire. Spend the night at a local hotel near the airport.
La Guardia Airport: The cost of flights and hotels can be checked here
Restaurants
For breakfast, check out the cozy Cafe Blossom located near La Guardia Airport. They offer delicious omelettes, coffee, and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, visit The Lunch Box, a popular spot for sandwiches and wraps. They have a variety of options including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, head over to The Tavern at Rivergate, a charming restaurant near the airport with a great selection of seafood and steak dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Friday, October 6: Franconia Notch State Park
In the morning, drive to Franconia Notch State Park, located in the heart of the White Mountains. Start the day with a scenic hike in the park, taking in the vibrant fall foliage. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Flume Gorge, a natural gorge extending 800 feet. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk around Echo Lake.
Franconia Notch State Park: Free admission, estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
Echo Lake: Free admission, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, start your day at Polly's Pancake Parlor, located just a short drive from Franconia Notch State Park. This charming pancake house offers a variety of mouthwatering pancake flavors with average costs for a meal around $10 per person.
For lunch, visit The Common Man Restaurant, conveniently located near Franconia Notch State Park. This local favorite serves up delicious American cuisine with average costs for a meal around $15 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a memorable dining experience at The Copper Door Restaurant, situated in nearby Bedford. This upscale eatery features a diverse menu of gourmet dishes with average costs for a meal around $40 per person.
Saturday, October 7: Kancamagus Highway and White Mountain National Forest
Embark on a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, known for its breathtaking views of fall foliage. Stop at various viewpoints for photo opportunities and short walks. In the afternoon, continue the journey into the White Mountain National Forest, where you can take a gentle hike and picnic amidst nature. End the day with a visit to the picturesque Sabbaday Falls.
Kancamagus Highway: Free, estimated time spent - full day
White Mountain National Forest: Free admission, estimated time spent - afternoon
Sabbaday Falls: Free admission, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Polly's Pancake Parlor, famous for its fluffy pancakes and homemade maple syrup. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head to the Woodstock Inn Brewery, where you can enjoy a variety of handcrafted beers and delicious pub fare. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at the White Mountain Cider Company, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and extensive wine list. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Sunday, October 8: White Mountains and Mount Washington
Start the morning by driving up the scenic Mount Washington Auto Road, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the summit. After descending, visit the Mount Washington Cog Railway, one of the oldest mountain-climbing cog railways in the world. In the afternoon, explore the quaint town of North Conway and indulge in some shopping or relax at a local café.
Mount Washington Auto Road: Vehicle fee $42, estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Mount Washington Cog Railway: Round trip adult ticket $68, estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
North Conway: Shopping and dining costs vary, estimated time spent - afternoon
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sunrise Shack. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes and savory egg dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try The Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub. This casual eatery offers a wide range of lunch options including sandwiches, burgers, and salads. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, visit The White Mountain Cider Company. Known for their farm-to-table fare, this restaurant serves up creative and seasonal dishes using local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, October 9: Berlin and Jericho Mountain State Park
On your last day, explore the town of Berlin, where your stay is booked. In the morning, visit the Moffett House Museum, which showcases the history of the region. Afterward, head to Jericho Mountain State Park for a beautiful hike and enjoy the fall colors reflecting in the crystal-clear lakes. End your trip with a scenic drive back to La Guardia Airport for departure.
Moffett House Museum: Admission fee $5, estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Jericho Mountain State Park: Free admission, estimated time spent - morning
Return to La Guardia Airport: Travel costs depend on gas and distance
Restaurants
Breakfast: Try the delicious homemade pancakes and omelettes at Polly's Pancake Parlor located in Sugar Hill. Rise and shine with a hearty meal and enjoy the stunning fall foliage views. Average cost for a meal is about $10-15 per person.
Lunch: Stop by Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton for a tasty lunch paired with their craft beers. They offer a diverse menu with options like burgers, sandwiches, and wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about $12-18 per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at The Mountain View Grand Resort's Harvest Tavern in Whitefield. Enjoy elegant dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients while immersing in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fall foliage. Average cost for a meal is about $30-45 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and nature experiences, consider venturing into Bear Brook State Park. This hidden gem offers numerous hiking trails, beautiful ponds, and an archery range. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic amidst nature. Another local favorite is the Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves, an enchanting network of caves and waterfalls. Embark on a guided tour to explore the fascinating geological formations of this stunning natural wonder.