We have traveled extensively in the western half of the USA over the last 7 years and have just returned from an Alaskan Land/Cruise tour. The one place we have never been is the NE part of the USA. Specifically; Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Conneticut.
We do not want to drive the RV (5th wheel) all the way from Seattle, especially with $4 gas prices. Also we have been to all the other 46 states (not RV ing). Not real crazy about flying, but we're considering flying to the area and renting a Class C.
Looking for suggestions as to renting, costs, time needed, and things to see. It would be in Sept 09.
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The biggest problem with that date is many state parks are closed already. The prime time for that area is July and August. That would give you open campgrounds and more activities. Things shut right after Labor day, as schools open usually the first week of September. The only week to see Maine is the third week in August, then maybe the ocean is warm enough to swim in. It may not even be warm enough for Rving.
Most of the RV parks close late October and some in Early November. Not many parks are closing in Sept. the weather is very nice in Sept. OF course the campgrounds won't close in Sept and miss the leave watchers.
THings to see an do...
1. Niagara Falls.
2. Catskills.
3. Leaf changing in NY/Vermont Area.
4. Lobster trail in Maine.
5. Lake George.
6. Herkimer Diamond Mines.
7. NYC
8. Boston
9 Acadia National Park
10. Any small town in Vermont.
11. Rt 2 through Mass.
12. Ferry over to Novia Scotia.
13. Nantucket
14. Cape Cod.
15. Martha's Vineyard
16. Erie Canal
17. Baseball Hall of Fame.
Just to Name a few. Have dozens more. How much time do you have.
Quote: The biggest problem with that date is many state parks are closed already
I suspect this isn't exactly right - after all, "leafpeeping" season is in late Sept/early October in New England. I think you'll find some, if not most, CGs still open at least until mid-October. Definitely you will want to consider making reservations well in advance, however.
And I don't recommend driving in Boston. You may want to look into renting something far out in the suburbs if you fly into/out of Boston.
We live here in New England and all the campgrounds are open until Columbus Day. We have camped as late as Halloween weekend. In fact, September is one of the best times to be here!
Must see: Boston, Cape Cod, Newport, RI, Towns along the Maine Cost (Kennebunkport, Camden), Bar Harbor / Acadia National Park, White Mountains/ Lakes Region of NH. A lot depends on what you want to do. Many will say go to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. It's a lot of money to go over.
We swam in the ocean last year on Columbus Day. Wouldn't want to do it in Bar Harbor, but southern Maine and the Cape are still mild.
I agree--if you have never driven in Boston, don't attempt an RV through the city.
PM me if you need more info.
Cara
2 Parrotheads and 2 Parakeets
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Go where your body and soul want to go. When you have the feeling, then stay with it, and don’t let anyone throw you off --Joseph Campbell
husker 2 wrote: ... The one place we have never been is the NE part of the USA. Specifically; Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut.... It would be in Sept 09.
What perfect timing; late September is usually prime "leaf-peeping" season in NH and VT, though it varies from year to year.
I can't think of anyplace that closes before Columbus Day. But do make your reservations early; those are the peak weeks in a short season, and many hotels have minimum stays. Several airlines fly into Manchester, NH.
The White Mountains of NH are especially wonderful for camping; it's a major state industry. The coastline of Maine is beautiful, with Acadia National Park high on many tourists' lists. Be sure to see some lighthouses!
I'd add another interesting place to visit: Mystic Seaport in s.e. CT. It's an old whaling town, with some interesting displays and some sailing ships you can tour. Decent enough CGs nearby. If you're interested in more modern seafaring, you can visit the USS Nautilus at the Navy submarine base in Groton, a few miles west of Mystic.
We live in Maine - September is a lovely time to visit! Often the best time of the year - very few mosquitoes, if any, and often Indian summer weather. As others mentioned, the area is very busy during leaf-peeping time - the colors of the fall leaves are stunning.
The parks and campgrounds are open until October - some until the end of the month, some close after Columbus Day. Here's Acadia's link
http://www.nps.gov/acad/
Driving your way up the Maine coast is fun- Freeport for shopping (LLBean and all) Boothbay Harbor, Camden, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park...
Enjoy planning your trip!
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If you looking for Rv Rental you could try Fuller RV Rental in W. Boylston, MA., Fly into Logan and take Worcester Airport Limo service right to Fuller's RV Rental. From there you would be in Central Massachusetts good leaping off spot for any point in New England.
INHO , come the first week in October, Start up North and see the colorful foliage of Northern New England, as you head back south the color will follow!
Jay
Good Luck and Happy Trails
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I think Jay has a good idea. Start in NH/ Maine and work your way south. You can fly into Manchester, NH and rent from Campers Inn in Merrimack, NH (not too far from the airport.)
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