Fall Foliage Family Road Trip with Children

New England is a charming region with endless wonders waiting to be explored. Picture driving along scenic coastal highways with your family as the salty breeze blows through your hair and the smell of fresh seafood lingers in the air. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant autumn foliage that blankets the landscape, creating a picturesque masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated to take a long trip with kids in the car. It’s doable, and kids love adventure! We’ve included some fun things to do during autumn with kids down below. In addition, we share some of the best road trip hacks to keep the children and adults happy!

Boston, Massachusetts

Photo: reverehotel.com

Start your family vacation by exploring the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that takes you through 16 historical sites. This interactive journey provides a fun learning experience for the kids as they see important landmarks such as the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution. After immersing yourselves in Boston’s rich history, head to the Boston Common to enjoy a picnic and let the kids burn off some energy at the playground.

In the afternoon, drive to nearby apple orchards or pumpkin patches where the family can participate in traditional fall activities like apple picking and hayrides. Finally, end your day in Boston with kids with a visit to the Boston Public Garden, where you can take a peaceful stroll amidst the stunning fall colors and even ride on the famous Swan Boats.

Salem, Massachusetts

Photo: oldsalem.org

With the fall foliage painting the town in vibrant colors, there is a sense of magic and mystery that surrounds Salem during this time of the year. The kids will be captivated by the history of the Salem Witch Trials and will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of this historical town. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the events of 1692 and engage in interactive exhibits that will transport you back in time. Stroll through the picturesque streets with quaint shops and restaurants offering delicious autumnal treats, like warm apple cider and freshly baked pumpkin pie. Don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful parks and gardens, where the toddlers can run around and enjoy the crisp autumn air.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Photo: upsidelane.com

With its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns, Cape Cod offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Start by exploring the Cape Cod National Seashore, with its sandy beaches and scenic hiking trails. Kids will love collecting seashells and building sandcastles on the beach. Drive along Route 6A, the Old King’s Highway, to admire the historic Cape Cod architecture and quaint shops.

Don’t forget to stop at one of the many pumpkin patches and apple orchards to pick the perfect pumpkin or go apple picking. Another must-visit attraction is the Cape Cod Children’s Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and educational activities for children of all ages. And for a memorable experience, take a whale-watching tour to see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Portland, Maine

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As you drive through the colorful New England foliage, the kids will be mesmerized by the vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Start your journey by visiting the Portland Head Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. The kids can explore the rocky shores and learn about the lighthouse’s history.

Next, head to the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, where your little ones can engage in hands-on exhibits and interactive performances. Don’t forget to stop by the Portland Observatory, a historic tower offering stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. In the evenings, stroll through the Old Port district and enjoy delicious seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

Photo: tripadvisor.com

New Hampshire’s foliage provides a breathtaking backdrop as you wind through the scenic roads. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the beauty of nature, whether it be at overlooks, hiking trails, or picnic areas. The kids will be delighted to see the changing colors and may even have a chance to collect colorful leaves for crafts or souvenirs.

Make sure to plan a visit to popular attractions like the Flume Gorge or the Mount Washington Cog Railway, where the little ones can learn about the region’s natural history and take in stunning views from the mountaintop. Fall also brings festive activities such as pumpkin picking and corn mazes, which the entire family can enjoy together.

Vermont

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Stop by charming towns like Stowe and Manchester, where you can explore local boutiques, enjoy delicious maple treats, and visit unique craft galleries. Drive through the scenic Green Mountains, where you can hike to breathtaking waterfalls and witness the stunning fall foliage up close. The kids will be mesmerized by the beauty of nature surrounding them.

Make a visit to the Shelburne Museum, a fascinating open-air museum that showcases Americana art and history. The kids will love exploring the diverse exhibits and learning about the rich culture of Vermont. Additionally, indulge in fun activities like apple picking, hayrides, and corn mazes at the numerous orchards and farms in the area. End each day snuggled up around a cozy campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the starry autumn sky.

Mystic, Connecticut

Photo: mysticseaport.com

Next on your family vacation itinerary is the Mystic Aquarium, where kids can marvel at various marine life, including beluga whales and penguins. Next, explore the Mystic Seaport Museum, a living history museum that allows families to step back in time and experience what life was like in a 19th-century coastal village. Stroll along the picturesque streets with charming shops and eateries, where you can savor local delicacies.

Don’t miss a cruise on the historic Mystic River, where the whole family can relax and admire the stunning autumn foliage. Complete the trip with a visit to The Dinosaur Place, where children can unleash their inner paleontologist while exploring life-size dinosaur replicas in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Newport, Rhode Island

Photo: tripadvisor.com

When visiting Newport, explore the famous Newport Cliff Walk, a scenic path that winds along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the mansions that line the shore. Kids will love the opportunity to explore these grand homes and imagine life during the Gilded Age. Afterward, head to the Newport Restoration Foundation’s Rough Point, which offers a unique glimpse into the life of Doris Duke, an American heiress and philanthropist. The extensive collection of art and artifacts will enthrall the kids.

For a bit of adventure, take a drive to the nearby Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, where families can hike along the trails and spot various bird species. Wrap up the day with a visit to Newport’s charming downtown area, filled with quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and stunning architecture.

Taking a Family Road Trip with Kids: Travel Tips

Photo: Tabea Schimpf

Planning on taking a long road trip together as a family? You’ll probably hear, “Are we there yet?” or “I’m hungry,” or “I have to use the bathroom,” sooner rather than later. Hopefully, you won’t hear your child retching in the backseat, but we know that can happen with car sickness. To help prevent boredom, keep your little ones from getting ‘hangry,’ and make your trip enjoyable and fun without a million stops for the bathroom, we have a few suggestions that cover snacks, car sickness, potty breaks, and activities.

Road Trip Snacks

To keep everyone’s spirits up and bellies full, packing snacks is a must. The key to a successful road trip snack selection is to have various options that appeal to different taste buds. A mix of sweet and savory treats is essential. Some popular choices include:

• Pretzels
• Popcorn
• Granola bars
• Trail mix
• Fruit (can be kept fresh in a small cooler)
• Dark chocolate
• Special treats

It’s also important to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences within the family. Having an assortment of snacks that cater to everyone’s needs ensures that no one is left hungry or unsatisfied during the journey. Family road trip snacks not only provide sustenance but also play a role in creating memorable moments together. Sharing and enjoying tasty treats can bring the family closer, making the road trip more enjoyable.

Dealing with Car Sickness

Dealing with car sickness in kids can be a challenging task for parents. It can make even short trips a nightmare, with children feeling nauseous, dizzy, and desperate to escape the car. The first step in managing this issue is identifying the triggers that may be causing the car sickness. These can range from motion to the smell inside the car to the type of food consumed before the trip. Once identified, parents can take proactive measures to avoid these triggers. Here are some tips to help prevent car sickness:

• Open a window or turn the AC on
• Provide ginger candies or saltine crackers
• Drive when kids are well-rested
• Drive when kids have an empty stomach
• Distract kids with books, music, or tablets

By understanding and addressing the triggers, parents can help their kids overcome car sickness and make traveling a more enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Road Trip Activities for Kids

Going on a road trip with kids can be challenging, but several activities can keep the kids entertained along the way. One option is to bring a portable DVD player or tablet loaded with family apps or shows. Just don’t forget the headphones! This way, they can easily pass the time by watching their favorite characters on screen. Another good activity is playing classic car games like “I Spy” or the license plate game. These road trip games not only keep kids engaged but also encourage them to be observant of their surroundings.

Coloring books and activity packs are also a great option, providing a creative outlet for kids during the journey. You can hit the dollar store beforehand to pack inexpensive yet fun items. Additionally, you can make the trip educational by listening to audiobooks or podcasts that cover topics they are interested in.

Bathroom Breaks

Kids often have smaller bladders and different bathroom habits than adults, so it’s important to be prepared. Before hitting the open road for a long road trip with kids, it’s best for everyone to use the bathroom. Additionally, pack of travel-sized toilet paper and baby wipes on hand (also helpful for sticky hands). Watch for rest stops or gas stations where the kids can use the restroom. It’s also helpful to have a portable potty or a foldable toilet seat, especially for younger children who may be fearful of unfamiliar restrooms.

If you have a child who is out of diapers but not completely potty trained, it’s a good idea to keep them in a pull-up for the road trip, just in case. Lastly, be patient and understanding during the breaks. It’s important to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for the kids to use the bathroom so they can fully enjoy the road trip experience.

Conclusion

Remember to plan your trip around the peak foliage season, typically from late September to mid-October. You’ll want to book your accommodations in advance as the autumn season in New England is quite busy! If you’re anticipating a long car ride with multiple hours in the car, plan places to stop to let your kids enjoy some fresh air and playtime occasionally, especially if they ride in a car seat. With some planning and knowledge of road trip hacks, adults can keep their sanity, and kids can make new memories. Your next family travel escapade might be the best road trip with children yet!