12-Day Canada & New England Fall Foliage

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Bar Harbor, Maine, offers a quintessential New England experience, combining stunning natural beauty with charming coastal appeal. Nestled on Mount Desert Island, the town serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the park's rugged coastline, picturesque lakes, and the iconic Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast where you can witness breathtaking sunrises.

Bar Harbor itself is a delightful blend of history and modernity. Stroll through its quaint streets lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants. The Abbe Museum, dedicated to the indigenous Wabanaki people, provides an insightful look into the region's rich cultural heritage. For a unique experience, take a scenic boat tour around Frenchman Bay, where you might spot seals and puffins while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a captivating destination known for its scenic beauty and charming coastal villages. Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod offers a quintessential New England experience with its pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and quaint towns. A visit to the Cape Cod National Seashore is a must, where visitors can explore miles of sandy shores, salt marshes, and tidal flats. The seashore also features iconic landmarks like the Nauset Light and the Highland Light, perfect for those who enjoy coastal history.

For a taste of local culture, the town of Provincetown at the tip of the Cape is renowned for its vibrant arts scene and welcoming atmosphere. Provincetown’s Commercial Street is lined with galleries, shops, and restaurants where you can savor fresh seafood and enjoy eclectic art. The town is also known for its rich history as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals and artists. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a whale-watching tour from Provincetown Harbor, where you might spot humpback and minke whales.

Cape Cod's natural beauty extends beyond the beaches to its scenic bike paths and nature trails. The Cape Cod Rail Trail offers a picturesque route for cyclists and walkers, winding through forests, wetlands, and small towns. The trail provides access to charming spots like Chatham and Harwich, where you can explore local shops and enjoy the serene landscape.

A fun fact about Cape Cod is that it was the site of the first successful transplant of a human heart in 1984 at Cape Cod Hospital. This historic medical achievement underscores the Cape’s unique place in American history.

With its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and charming towns, Cape Cod offers a memorable getaway for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

Newport, Rhode Island, is a charming coastal city steeped in history and elegance. Often referred to as the "Sailing Capital of the World," Newport offers stunning seaside views, rich colonial heritage, and Gilded Age grandeur. Stroll along the famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that weaves between the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the opulent Newport mansions on the other. These "summer cottages," such as The Breakers and Marble House, were built by American industrialist families like the Vanderbilts and Astors and serve as a testament to America's Gilded Age extravagance. Today, visitors can tour these meticulously preserved estates and marvel at their architectural splendor and lavish interiors.

Newport's historic Thames Street, lined with quaint shops, seafood restaurants, and cobblestone paths, provides a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Newport was founded in 1639 and quickly became a significant trading port. Its history can be explored further at the Newport Historical Society Museum or the Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, built in 1763. For those interested in military history, the nearby Fort Adams State Park offers guided tours of one of America's largest coastal fortresses, along with panoramic views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

For maritime enthusiasts, Newport's allure is unparalleled. The city has hosted America's Cup, the renowned yacht race, for over 50 years. The Newport Yacht Club and the International Yacht Restoration School provide a fascinating look into this enduring tradition. During the summer months, visitors can experience the excitement of Newport Harbor on a sailing cruise or explore the annual Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival, both of which attract top global artists and music lovers from around the world.

Fun fact: Newport is home to one of the oldest continuously operating taverns in the United States, the White Horse Tavern. Opened in 1673, this historic landmark has served meals to countless guests over the centuries, including George Washington himself! Today, the White Horse Tavern continues to offer New England classics in a setting that feels like a step back in time.