Fall Season, Vermont Maple Fall Foliage 2-Day Tour from New York

Traveling from Brooklyn to Vermont for a fall foliage adventure offers a wonderful chance to see some of New England’s most iconic autumn landscapes. This 2-day Vermont Maple Fall Foliage tour promises vibrant leaves, historic sites, and scenic vistas—all with the comfort of guided transport and thoughtful planning. But is it worth the price, and what makes it stand out?

We’ve looked into the experience, and here’s what excites us: the beautiful scenery, especially the views from Stratton Mountain; the insider knowledge from engaging guides; and the chance to explore historic landmarks like Fort Ticonderoga and Hildene. The only consideration might be the pace—if you prefer a relaxed, unstructured trip, this tour’s packed itinerary could feel a bit rushed. Still, for those craving a well-organized snapshot of Vermont’s charm in just two days, it could be a perfect choice.

This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, guided experience filled with iconic sights and colorful landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s particularly good for first-timers to Vermont, or those short on time but eager for authentic, scenic adventures.

Good To Know

• Comfortable group size (maximum of 55 travelers) ensures a personable experience.
• Includes transportation, guide, and hotel stay, delivering good value for the price.
• Highlights: stunning mountain views, historic sites, and seasonal attractions.
• Flexible options for attractions — some admission fees are included, others are optional.
• Guides are bilingual (English & Chinese), adding an inclusive touch.
• Unique keepsakes like a custom travel passport make memories more tangible.

The Scenic Route: What to Expect on This Vermont Foliage Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your fall experience in just two days, balancing scenic drives with enriching stops and cultural insights. The journey begins early in Brooklyn, leaving at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start. But once on the road, you’ll enjoy the comfort of a professional vehicle, driven by a knowledgeable guide who is keen on sharing stories and local tips.

Day 1: From New York to the Heart of Vermont’s Beauty

Your first stop is the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, an impressive pedestrian bridge spanning the Hudson River. Opened in 2009, this site offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding valley. It’s a brief, one-hour visit—just enough to soak in the scenery and snap some photos. The fact that it’s free makes it a great first taste of the landscape.

Next, the group heads to Fort Ticonderoga, a significant 18th-century star fort built by the French. Here, you’ll get about 1.5 hours to explore military structures, exhibits, and enjoy the picturesque setting near Lake Champlain. While admission isn’t included, many find the historical context and scenic location well worth a visit. One reviewer mentioned that the fort offers “an experience of a lifetime,” especially for history buffs or those craving more than just leaf peeping.

The day continues with a drive through Vermont’s lush forests—covering about 60% of the state—in search of vibrant leaves. The guides take care to point out the best vistas, and you’ll learn about the region’s natural environment, making every stop both picturesque and informative.

Day 2: Deep Dive into Vermont’s Heritage and Mountain Views

The second day begins with a visit to Robert Todd Lincoln’s residence, offering a glimpse into American history. The museum displays exhibits, including Lincoln’s top hat, giving travelers a personal touch to the nation’s 16th president’s legacy. The 1.5-hour stop is free, and guides often share engaging stories to bring the place to life.

Following that, Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, awaits. This historic mansion provides a scenic setting with well-preserved furnishings and extensive grounds, perfect for a leisurely walk. While the admission isn’t included, the setting alone makes it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Lincoln’s family life. Over two hours are allocated, giving plenty of time to explore and enjoy the gardens.

The afternoon is dedicated to Stratton Mountain Resort, where a gondola ride elevates visitors to Vermont’s highest peak. From this vantage point, you get 360-degree views across four states—Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New York. The experience is especially popular among those who love panoramic scenery and mountain landscapes. The guides emphasize that this is among the most memorable parts of the trip, with some reviewers noting the stunning vistas that “stretch across four states.”

What’s Included, and What’s Not?

The package covers transportation, a professional guide, one night in a boutique or scenic hotel, and some attraction admissions (Fort Ticonderoga, Lincoln sites, Gondola ride). Unlimited bottled water and treats are provided, ensuring you stay refreshed during the long day of sightseeing.

However, travelers should budget extra for meals, as these are not included. Some reviews mention that the tour guide is helpful in arranging food, but it’s wise to carry snacks or plan meal stops ahead. Gratuities aren’t included but are generally appreciated in such guided tours.

Transport and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable vehicle suited to the group size, capped at 55 travelers. This size strikes a good balance—large enough for social interaction but small enough to keep the experience intimate. The departure time of 6:30 am means an early start, but it also provides maximum daylight for sightseeing.

The Guides: Bilingual and Engaging

One of the tour’s standout features is the bilingual guide service—English and Chinese—which adds a welcoming touch for international travelers. The guides are noted for sharing lively stories, spontaneous insights, and tips for snapping social media-worthy photos. Some reviews pointed out that guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, although one mentioned feeling somewhat singled out, which can happen in group settings.

The Experience’s Value

At $316 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive Vermont experience in just two days. It includes several key attractions, scenic drives, and comfortable accommodations. While some attractions’ admission fees are extra, the overall package provides a good deal for those wanting a guided, organized trip with a mix of history, nature, and mountain views.

Some travelers felt the trip was well planned and felt satisfied with the variety of scenery and cultural insights. The inclusion of keepsakes like a travel passport adds a fun, collectible element that encourages engagement and memory-making.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer mentioned, “The tour was comprehensive to cover several places. There were many warm people on the tour,” highlighting the social aspect. Others appreciated the guides’ efforts, noting they “delivered treats with a smile” and shared interesting stories about Vermont’s natural beauty and history.

However, a point worth considering is the timing—since the tour is scheduled for October, it aligns perfectly with peak fall foliage, but weather can sometimes impact visibility. Good planning and checking the forecast are recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an organized, scenic, and historically enriching trip to Vermont, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, fall foliage lovers, and those wanting a hassle-free journey with comfortable transportation and expert guidance. The bilingual guides add value for international travelers, and the inclusion of notable sites makes it a well-rounded experience.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have specific dietary needs, you might want to supplement the tour with extra planning. The early start and packed schedule aren’t suited to everyone, but for many, they ensure you see Vermont’s best in a short time.

The Sum Up

This Vermont Maple Fall Foliage tour combines scenic vistas, historic landmarks, and mountain adventure into a neat package perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience the best of New England fall. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully selected stops make it a worthwhile option for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural insights.

The value is clear when considering the price includes multiple attractions, a night in cozy accommodations, and a memorable guided experience. It’s best suited for first-timers, fall foliage enthusiasts, and those wanting a guided escape from the city hustle.

While it’s fast-paced, the variety and quality of sights ensure you leave with stunning photographs, new knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for Vermont’s seasonal charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour departs at 6:30 am, ensuring an early start to maximize sightseeing time.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, meals are not included. The tour guide can assist in arranging food, but travelers should plan to bring snacks or buy meals separately.

What attractions are included in the price?
Admission to Fort Ticonderoga, The Lincoln Family Home at Hildene, and the Stratton Gondola ride are included if you select the appropriate package.

Can I join if I speak only English?
Yes, the guides offer bilingual narration in English and Chinese, but English-only speakers will have no trouble understanding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but children under 6 may need a booster seat depending on the vehicle used. The tour is family-friendly but best suited for those able to handle early mornings and full days of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, cash for personal expenses, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum group size is 55 travelers, which balances social interaction with personal attention.

In summary, this Vermont fall foliage tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and historically enriched experience perfect for travelers eager to see the stunning colors of autumn in New England without the hassle of planning every detail. With careful consideration of your pace and preferences, it can be an unforgettable way to celebrate fall’s beauty.