As summer finally draws to a close in September and October and we begin to make our homes cozy for the cold days ahead, a trip to our friends in New England on the other side of the Atlantic is well worth it.
For it is during this exact time that the forests along the East Coast of the USA shine in uniquely autumnal colors, transforming the landscape into a colorful patchwork quilt of deep yellow, orange, and red that seems to reach all the way to the horizon. This is the "Indian Summer," a spectacle that attracts people to the Northeast of the USA along the Atlantic year after year. But at this magical time in late summer and autumn, New England has so much more to offer than just colorful leaves. From enchanted lighthouses and idyllic coastal towns to historic landmarks, wild nature, and, of course, good food – New England truly has something for every traveler.
Join us on a road trip through picturesque New England during what is arguably the most beautiful time of the year, accompanied, of course, by delicious and aromatic culinary guides.
Our journey begins after a long flight across the Atlantic with our touchdown in historic Boston, the largest city in the state of Massachusetts. In our luggage, besides rainproof clothing, hiking boots, and spare batteries, we primarily have a lot of enthusiasm and a good appetite.
Those hit by jet lag should take the opportunity to linger for a while, as our trip will take us over a distance of nearly 1,300 miles (approx. 1,900 km) – which is more than triple the driving distance between Munich and Hamburg – through 6 of America's perhaps most beautiful states. So, even if the anticipation is great, a good night's sleep certainly won't hurt.
We recommend (as we do for the entire trip) a traditional stay in one of the many B&Bs or family-run motels, of course with a typical American Breakfast the next morning. This is your chance to enjoy a classic American breakfast with pancakes, bacon, and waffles, plus some absolute taste classics from New England and the neighboring states – such as maple syrup and blueberry jam – which you absolutely shouldn't miss during a trip to the region.
➡️ Wild Maine Blueberry Jam by Stonewall Kitchen
➡️ Farmhouse Pancake & Waffle Mix by Stonewall Kitchen
Massachusetts Part 1 – Boston, Salem & Co.
Finished breakfast? Then we can get going, because there is much to see.
Boston is perhaps one of the most historically rich cities in the entire USA. Who, for instance, has never heard of the Boston Tea Party? But the city also has plenty of state-of-the-art attractions to offer. It is the seat of the world-famous Harvard University, and sports fans will likely be drawn toward Fenway Park, the home of the Red Sox.
Those who prefer things a bit quieter and more relaxed can stroll along the waterfront before we hop behind the wheel and our journey truly begins.
The first part of our journey takes us just a short way out of Boston heading north. Here, the idyllic, almost sleepy-looking Salem awaits. This name, too, is likely familiar to many. In the 18th century, the Salem Witch Trials took place here, in which many young women were accused of witchcraft and condemned to death at the stake. This spooky history still clings to the city today, and especially in autumn, with Halloween just around the corner, participating in one of the many night and ghost tours through historic (and sometimes allegedly haunted) sites is well worth it.
Salem is likely known to many bookworms through the vampire novel "Salem's Lot" by Stephen King. Indeed, many of King's books are set in the states of New England, even if not all settings are real places like Salem in real life. And King is in good company here, as the unique horror classics of author H.P. Lovecraft are primarily set in and around Boston.
For the perfect spooky atmosphere, just like in Salem, we recommend the fantastic Halloween Limited Edition scented candles by Kringle Candle, also authentically from New England (we'll find a chance to buy them locally later). Included are scents that are sometimes based directly on King's books or show direct parallels, such as "Redrum" or "Black Cat."
➡️ Halloween Limited Edition Scented Candles by Kringle and Country Candle
Instead of heading north directly from the city, a small detour via the Yankee Division Highway to the east to Cape Ann is worthwhile. Here lie a few quiet coastal towns like Rockport, which entice visitors with picturesque beaches and delicious seafood. Our special recommendation for anyone wanting to take the opportunity to try local lobster is "The Lobster Pool" at the northern tip of the peninsula. Not only is the food first-class here, but the view out over Ipswich Bay is definitely worth a stop.
On the way back from our little side trip, one shouldn't miss checking out the towns of Essex and Ipswich. Especially Ipswich, with its many historic town districts, should not be missed. For those who don't care for lobster, try the local clams, the quality of which is celebrated annually at the big Chowderfest. Clam chowder is a clam soup thickened with crackers. An insider tip we certainly wouldn't want to miss on our trip (or at home).
After this short detour, it's slowly time for us to head north. Even though our route follows Highway 95, we recommend taking Route 1 instead from Ipswich. The road is a very special insider tip and, in our opinion, perhaps the most beautiful coastal route in all of New England.
New Hampshire Part 1 – Transit in Portsmouth
After our little literary and culinary detours, our drive continues along the coast toward the north and for a short while through quiet New Hampshire. On our way, we pass through the idyllic Portsmouth, which, with its harbor and vintage-look houses, invites you to linger and stroll.
Although our first stay in New Hampshire is very short, it will not be the last.
Maine – Stonewall Kitchen, Portland & Acadia
Our first destination along the long coasts of Maine lies just about 20 minutes north of Portsmouth. Crossing the bay and simultaneously the state line into Maine and following Route 1, you arrive after a short time in the quiet little town of York. For foodies and fans of Stonewall Kitchen, a visit to the local Company Store is worthwhile. Given our long journey, a little sustenance never hurts, and outdoor fans in particular should take the chance to stock up on some goodies that can be enjoyed quickly and easily on the go with just a few ingredients.
➡️ Everything Blend by Stonewall Kitchen
➡️ Sea Salt Caramel Hot Chocolate by Stonewall Kitchen
From here, we once again leave Route 1 for another short trip east to the coast for a special kind of postcard moment. The Cape Neddick Light is one of the most well-known lighthouses in the Northeast of the USA and one of the classic photo motifs in the area. While you cannot reach the lighthouse itself as a tourist, as it sits enthroned on an offshore island, the view from the eastern end of the Cape Neddick peninsula of the island and the Atlantic stretching endlessly behind it is a magical experience and definitely worth a detour to marvel at and take photos.
Before we travel even deeper into picturesque Maine, a stop in Portland (not to be confused with Portland, Oregon) is worthwhile. The Downtown Arts District and the harbor are especially worth a visit. Those who wish can also take a ferry and make a detour to the islands in Casco Bay. A world-famous photo motif awaits just a little further along the coast. The Portland Breakwater Lighthouse is not only world-famous as a postcard, but also has historical significance. As the first lighthouse in the United States, it was personally commissioned by George Washington.
In general, Portland is ideal as a hub for all lighthouse hunters, as you can reach a multitude of the most beautiful lighthouses on the coast in just a short time from here. Linger for a while, it's definitely worth it.
➡️ Ocracoke Lighthouse Christmas Tree Ornament
For those who prefer heading out into untouched nature rather than visiting lighthouses, our next destination will certainly bring joy, even if we have to take a big detour from our round trip. Our next stop takes us a good 3 hours north out of the city. Don't worry if it feels like we are driving further and further into nowhere. That is by design. Because our destination is nature in its purest form in Acadia National Park.
The national park is located for the most part on the offshore Mount Desert Island and is home to many impressive wild animals such as moose and bears. Along the coast, a multitude of seabirds have their home, and in good weather, with a bit of luck, you might even spot a whale in the distance. Cadillac Mountain in the center of the island may not be the highest mountain on our travel route at 505 meters, but the tree-free view over the whole island is definitely worth it, and experienced hikers can try to climb the mountain early in the morning and greet the new day from the spot from which it is said you can be the first in the USA to admire the sunrise. Those who would like to stay longer can dock in Bar Harbor, a small town on the island, picturesquely situated in a bay at the northeast end of the island.
Those who don't shy away from a significant detour, since we are so far north anyway, should take the opportunity to visit one of the most picturesque (and simultaneously the easternmost) points of the mainland USA. The West Quoddy Head Lighthouse lies another good 2 hours northeast along the Atlantic coast. From this lighthouse, classically striped in red and white, you can look out over the waves of the Quoddy Narrows to Liberty Point in neighboring Canada in good weather. Despite the large detour, definitely worth the trip.
On the way back west toward Augusta, from where we will start our journey into the interior, we should take the time again to try the local specialties. Seafood, caught right in front of the small coastal towns, is an absolute must. Whether lobster, oysters, or delicious fish – everyone who loves seafood simply cannot get around the many restaurants in the coastal towns on the Atlantic.
➡️ Lobster Tea Towel by Stonewall Kitchen (100% Cotton)
New Hampshire Part 2 – Mount Washington
Our travel plan now takes us for the first time truly into the interior and far away from lighthouses and the rugged Atlantic coast. But don't worry – our new destination is at least just as picturesque as the craggy East Coast beaches, if not more so. Our destination on this leg of the journey is picturesque Vermont, but on the way, we cross through New Hampshire again.
All mountaineering and hiking fans should consider taking a detour into the nearby nature from here before we cross the border into Maine. Only about half an hour south of the exit from Route 2 in Gorham lies the White Mountain National Park, an impressive nature reserve that delights every hiker. Here rises Mount Washington, the highest mountain in the Northeastern United States, which towers over the surrounding area by up to 1,400 meters. The summit is also accessible by car via a toll road until October and offers, besides a visitor center and a cafeteria, a unique view over the expanses of New England.
➡️ Mountain Chalet Scented Candle by Country Candle
Vermont Part 1 – Home of Indian Summer
Vermont is the home of the world-famous "Indian Summer." Even those who might not know the name have certainly seen pictures of the impressive natural spectacle, which simply makes one have to marvel. From August to October, the vast forests of Vermont shine in brightly colorful hues. Fiery red, orange, and yellow, broken up in between by the last of the green, immerse the wide valleys and imposing mountain slopes in a special kind of color play. And when the sun slowly sets behind the hills in the evening, the scenery is bathed in a sea of amber colors that literally sets the horizon on fire. A forest walk or a joyride through the winding avenues is therefore especially fun in late summer and autumn.
If you don't want to miss that feeling back home within your own four walls, you can bring the unique atmosphere home with autumnal New England scents from Country and Kringle Candle (more on this opportunity later).
➡️ Crimson Park Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
➡️ Clearwater Creek Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
➡️ Autumn Amber Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
With its magical autumn mood and many small, often secluded vacation homes, Vermont is the ultimate destination for romantic getaways. So, if you have embarked on the journey with your better half, you should treat yourselves to a short break and enjoy the truly unique atmosphere. For the perfect ambiance in your intimate togetherness, you naturally shouldn't miss out on matching aromas and culinary delights here, either.
➡️ Warm & Fuzzy Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
We also recommend the forests of Vermont as great excursion destinations in late autumn and winter. However, you should be prepared for lively snow flurries and plenty of cozy, warm hours indoors. But you can pass the time well here too, e.g., by baking cookies with our cookie cutters from Vermont, available in many great motifs.
➡️ Cookie Cutters from Vermont
Vermont Part 2 – A Paradise for Hikers
For those who would rather get out into nature instead of getting cozy under a warm blanket, the north of Vermont is particularly impressive with its many lakes. Kayaks can be rented almost everywhere here, allowing you to enjoy a quiet autumn evening out on the clear, calm water.
➡️ Lake House Hand Soap by Stonewall Kitchen
After the tranquil lakes in northern Vermont, the hearts of all outdoor enthusiasts will certainly beat faster at our next stop.
After our romantic break, we head off towards the south along Highways 89 and 91, the Connecticut River, and the state border with neighboring New Hampshire. While New Hampshire is primarily dominated by the nearby Atlantic coast, the atmosphere further west in the interior is completely different. Southern Vermont is shaped by the Appalachians and the rain that moves inland from the Atlantic, precipitating against the mountains. Rustic forests and valleys and mountain peaks almost spookily shrouded in fog give the area an almost enchanted atmosphere thanks to this natural weather barrier.
➡️ Balsam Fir Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
A bit off the highways lies the Green Mountains National Forest, a national forest covering over 3,000 km² and home to some of the most well-known and beautiful hiking trails in the world. Among these is a section of the Appalachian Trail, which begins at Springer Mountain in Maine and leads hikers over 3,540 km to Georgia, crossing 14 states in the process. Over 3 million people hike sections of this trail every year, and about 3,000 people attempt to hike the entire distance annually – only 25% make it to the end. And the section through the forests of Vermont is an absolute highlight, especially in late summer.
You just shouldn't forget your waterproof clothing in the car, because the weather can turn quickly here.
➡️ Rainy Days Scented Candle by Stonewall Kitchen
Massachusetts Part 2 – Visiting Kringle Candle
Although we are currently just passing through and will spend time in picturesque Massachusetts again at the end of our trip, there is one stop on our journey south that we definitely shouldn't miss. If we follow Highway 91 from Vermont towards New Haven, we pass right through the small town of Bernardston. Although the tranquil town has just over 2,000 inhabitants, a very special highlight awaits fans of our products here, as our ever-popular Kringle and Country Candles originate from Bernardston.
A stopover here is the perfect opportunity to stock up on souvenirs that will keep the unique atmosphere of our New England trip alive at home for a long time.
➡️ Great Autumn Scents by Kringle Candle (Wax Melt Bundle)
➡️ Exciting Autumn Aromas by Country Candle (Wax Melt Bundle)
Connecticut – Bridges & Maritime Flair
On our way further south, we cross the border into a new state on our tour. Connecticut is versatile, with both maritime and rural influences. The north of the state, in particular, is famous for its picturesque "Covered Bridges", a landmark of New England. Those who don't want to miss perhaps the best-known and most beautiful of these bridges must leave the highway and drive for approx. one hour further into western Connecticut. Here awaits the scarlet West Cornwall Covered Bridge, which, at 52 meters, is second to none. An iconic photo opportunity of the highest order.
➡️ Snowy Bridge Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
Following Highway 91, we reach our next destination in the south of the state: New Haven. The city is primarily known for Yale University, and visitors can let themselves be impressed by the atmosphere of this prestigious institution on-site. For all fans of classical art, the publicly accessible Yale University Art Gallery is located almost hidden on the university grounds, where you can admire over 250,000 originals by famous artists such as Degas, Monet, or Manet.
The south of Connecticut is dominated primarily by the coast and the offshore Long Island Sound, at the other end of which Long Island stretches out. For those who want to add destinations outside of New England to their travel plan and aren't afraid of traffic, a side trip to New York City in the south is recommended. In just under an hour and a half, you can make it from New Haven to downtown Manhattan and snag a souvenir, provided, of course, that traffic cooperates.
➡️ New York Souvenirs by American Heritage
For maritime interests, a stopover on the coast in Mystic is worthwhile as we continue our journey east from New Haven. In addition to shopping and strolling opportunities, the popular Mystic Seaport offers such diverse attractions as a planetarium, a publicly accessible shipyard, and history in the form of traditional vintage-style wooden boats and houses. The Mystic Aquarium is also absolutely worth a side trip, especially for the little travelers.
Rhode Island – Mansions & Beaches
From New Haven, we drive east along the coast and soon reach the last new state on our round trip: Rhode Island. Known as a holiday destination, the state is particularly attractive in summer with its many beaches, even if it might already be too cold for truly hardcore vacationers to dare to venture into the waves in autumn for swimming and surfing.
Before we head north from the picturesque coast towards the interior, a short side trip to Newport is worthwhile. Located on a peninsula, the city is primarily known for its coastal character. The Newport Cliffs in the south of the city are world-famous for their mix of rugged nature and historical architecture. Although Rhode Island is generally popular for its many imposing estates, the most opulent mansions in the entire state can also be found here in the city. Especially in good weather, it is worth taking a few hours off your daily schedule to stroll along the wide streets and green spaces and explore the buildings that are reminiscent of France and England. The best-known, publicly accessible mansion is certainly "The Breakers", a magnificent building with 70 rooms, built in the Renaissance style.
➡️ Gold & Cashmere Scented Candle by Kringle Candle
We leave Newport behind us and set off again towards the north. In fact, it is only about 100 km from here back to Boston, where our journey began. But first, we make a stopover in Providence. For the right holiday mood, we recommend a trip through the canals with one of the many gondolas. You can almost feel as if you were in Venice instead of the USA. Guests in October can also look forward to a special sight with a bit of luck. Every year in May and October, the "Providence WaterFire" takes place, an event where fires placed along the riverfront are lit, bathing the water in a warm orange glow during the evening hours.
All set? Then let's set off for the "last but not least" part of our round trip.
Massachusetts Part 3 – Cape Cod & the Islands
Instead of driving the good 50 miles (approx. 90 km) from Providence further north to Boston, we make one last side trip towards the southeast. Here, a few of the perhaps most beautiful and globally well-known destinations of our entire trip await us.
Our first port of call is the peninsula of Cape Cod. It was at this history-steeped place that the Pilgrim Fathers landed in America in 1620. Provincetown, at the very northern end of the Cape, is a popular destination for tourists. You have the best chances in the whole country to experience whales live on the whale watching tours organized from here. The city is also very popular as an artist stronghold. So, anyone looking for a keepsake will certainly find something, and all golf fans should seize the opportunity to try their luck for a hole-in-one on one of the 15 local golf courses.
Anyone who wants to end the round trip with a few absolute highlights should use the local ferries from Cape Cod to cross over to the offshore islands.
In the south of Cape Cod, you can take a ship from Woods Hole over to legendary Martha’s Vineyard. A stroll along the beach houses and villas, especially in the twilight with the sound of the sea in the background, will make you think back to warm summer days even in autumn. It is not for nothing that the island is a vacation dream destination for many Americans. Beach cultists and lighthouse hunters get their money's worth here. But wildlife enthusiasts also have a day trip destination in a scenically unique setting with the local seabird park.
Alternatively, you can also charter a ferry from Lewis Bay, just a stone's throw from Cape Cod Airport, over to the more remote island of Nantucket. Even though it became famous historically primarily for whaling, the island today is primarily a hotspot for sailors, and the many whales that camp out off the island during the year are also much better off as tourist attractions. Nevertheless, you shouldn't miss the chance for a visit to the local Whaling Museum before we have to slowly occupy ourselves with the thought of the journey home.
On the way back north along the coast of Massachusetts, we take the time once more for one final stopover in Plymouth, the unofficial birthplace of the United States. In addition to Plymouth Rock and the National Monument of the Forefathers (the third-largest statue in the USA, after all), a replica of the "Mayflower", the ship with which the Pilgrim Fathers arrived in America, awaits visitors in the harbor. And south of the current city center, a visit to the replica of the original Pilgrim settlement, which today functions as an interactive open-air museum, is worthwhile.
With the origin of the USA, we unfortunately mark the end of our round trip and the return journey to Boston, where the flight home awaits us. Of course, there is so much more to discover in New England, but unfortunately, our time is also limited and all good things must come to an end. But don't worry. The fact that we couldn't see everything only means one thing at the end of the day:
We will be back.
