5-Day Family Friendly Fall Foliage Adventure in New Hampshire and Vermont

Day 1: Explore Concord

Concord, NH

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Works Cafe

Kick off your trip with delicious pancakes and fresh coffee at this local favorite that offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for families.
Take a short 5-minute drive from your hotel.
USD40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the New Hampshire State House

Learn about the local history and enjoy a guided tour of the beautifully preserved state capitol building.
Just a 5-minute walk from The Works Cafe.
USD0 (free entry), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Concord Family Restaurant

Enjoy hearty sandwiches and salads in this family-friendly diner known for its warm service.
Drive 10 minutes from the State House.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Adventure at Contoocook River Park

Spend time outdoors exploring this park with trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the river—ideal for a family hike.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD0 (free entry), 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Engage your kids with interactive science exhibits and planetarium shows that are both educational and fun.
5-minute drive from the park.
USD40, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cheers Restaurant & Bar

End the day with great food and a fun atmosphere at this popular location featuring a varied menu.
5-minute drive from the Discovery Center.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: White Mountain Wonders

White Mountains, NH

7:30AM

Breakfast at Polly's Pancake Parlor

Enjoy delightful homemade pancakes in the picturesque setting of Sugar Hill, a perfect start to your adventure-filled day.
Drive 1 hour and 15 minutes from Concord.
USD50, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Scenic Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

Take one of the most scenic drives in North America, with stunning views of vibrant fall leaves and opportunities to stop at beautiful viewpoints.
Start from Polly's Pancake Parlor.
USD0 (just gas), 2 hours (driving with stops)

11:00AM

Hike at Franconia Notch State Park

Explore family-friendly trails like the Flume Gorge that are visually stunning, showcasing cliffs and waterfalls.
Drive 30 minutes from the Kancamagus Highway.
USD30 (entry fee), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Common Man

Have a hearty lunch with locally inspired meals that will refuel you for further adventures.
10-minute drive from the park.
USD60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Take a thrilling ride up the mountain for spectacular views of the fall foliage and surrounding landscapes.
A short 10-minute drive from The Common Man.
USD100 (family ticket), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Woodwards Resort

End the day with a cozy dinner and a warm fireplace in this rustic setting, featuring family-friendly menu options.
Just a 10-minute drive from the tramway.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Stowe Exploration

Stowe, VT

8:00AM

Breakfast at Butternut Inn

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in this charming inn, known for its warm hospitality and delicious homemade dishes.
Drive 1 hour and 30 minutes from White Mountains.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Stowe Pinnacle

Enjoy a scenic family hike with breathtaking views from the summit—perfect for capturing stunning fall colors.
A short 15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD0 (free entry), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stowe Cafe & Bakery

Refuel with freshly made sandwiches, soups, and baked goods in a cozy setting adorning local art.
15-minute drive from the hike.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

Engage with exhibits showcasing the history of skiing and snowboarding in the area—great for winter sports enthusiasts.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Smugglers’ Notch State Park

Discover amazing views, picturesque landscapes, and stroller-friendly trails perfect for family exploration.
A 20-minute scenic drive from the museum.
USD15 (parking fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Alchemist Brewery

Enjoy craft brews and delicious dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating to soak in the autumn air.
30-minute drive from the park.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Montpelier Marvels

Montpelier, VT

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Skinny Pancake

Savor tasty crepes and local ingredients at this popular spot, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Drive 35 minutes from Stowe.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Vermont State House

Explore Vermont's historic state capitol with beautiful gardens and educational tours available for kids.
A short 10-minute walk from breakfast.
USD0 (free entry), 1 hour

11:00AM

Hiking in Hubbard Park

Let the kids run free in this sprawling park with trails and beautiful views—a great spot for a family picnic.
20-minute walk from the State House.
USD0 (free entry), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Green Pepper

Enjoy hearty salads, locally sourced sandwiches, and warm service at this charming cafe.
Drive 5 minutes from Hubbard Park.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

Learn about the maple syrup production process through interactive displays and tastings that kids will love.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
USD10 (tasting fee), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Montpelier Alive Art Walk

Discover curated public art installations while walking the brick sidewalks of Vermont's capital, making it an enjoyable family activity.
A quick 5-minute drive.
USD0 (free entry), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sarducci's

End the day with delightful Italian cuisine in this pizza and pasta haven known for its family-friendly vibe.
5-minute drive from the art walk.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Beautiful Burlington

Burlington, VT

8:00AM

Breakfast at Penny Cluse Cafe

Enjoy a renowned breakfast spot in Burlington, acclaimed for its amazing granola, pancakes, and warm environment.
Drive 30 minutes from Montpelier.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk along the Burlington Waterfront Park

Stroll the scenic waterfront, perfect for enjoying stunning views of Lake Champlain against the backdrop of autumn leaves.
A short 5-minute drive from breakfast.
USD0 (free entry), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Center

Let the kids explore a host of interactive exhibits and view native fish and aquarium creatures, fostering an interest in nature.
Just a 10-minute drive from the waterfront.
USD40, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at American Flatbread

Indulge in organic pizza and craft beers in a lively atmosphere that both kids and adults will enjoy.
A 5-minute drive from the aquarium.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Church Street Marketplace

Support local businesses and enjoy shopping, street performers, and food stalls in this vibrant pedestrian street.
A short 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD0 (shopping varies), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Farmhouse Tap & Grill

Enjoy farm-to-table dining with a focus on local ingredients, perfect for finishing your adventure on a tasty note.
A 10-minute walk from the marketplace.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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