Vermont vs New Hampshire - The Ultimate Fall Brawl Weekend! (In my Sunday, Sunday, Sunday Voice)

Sleepy Hollow Farm, Woodstock, VT.

One of the most wonderful marks of autumn is the sight of leaves changing color. Last week we took some time to welcome and appreciate the impending fall foliage on our first ever “leaf-peeping” pilgrimage to Vermont and New Hampshire (and by munching on all the freshly baked apple cider donuts we could find). So, now, there's just one question we need to answer: Which is best, Vermont or New Hampshire?

Ding Ding Ding! First up, Vermont. This place in the fall is like something straight out of a picture book. We chose Woodstock, VT., as our base. Sure, you hear “Woodstock,” and fall foliage isn’t the first thing that comes to mind but this is a different Woodstock in a different state. This Woodstock is actually one of the best destinations to view peak foliage and has been dubbed the "quintessential New England village." Expect classic American charm; colorful, lush foliage; and a quaint town bustling with shops and restaurants.

Woodstock Inn, Woodstock VT.

Suggested activities: Go for a hike through the woodlands of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to take in the foliage firsthand. Then, after working up an appetite, sample fresh local cheese from the Billings Farm & Museum. Don’t miss right outside of town, the idyllic Sleepy Hollow Farm, which is located a few miles north of Woodstock in the town of Pomfret. Simply the most beautiful property I have ever seen. At the right time of year, you will spot mist in the valley and around the barn. The hillside behind the barn usually has wonderful fall foliage and by visiting before the birds awake, you can catch the rising sun peeking up over the ridge for that magical WOW moment.

Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith NH.

Knowing our time was limited, we headed east to seek out the competitor. Welcome to New Hampshire! We kicked off our tour at Lake Winnipesaukee. Road tripping around the state’s biggest lake, we took in the waterfront views and bright autumn foliage. Seriously though, it’s a large lake–the loop amounts to 97 miles of premium New England sights. I recommend stopping for lunch and taking a stroll in one of the quaint towns along the route, like Meredith, or add in some time for outdoor activities (think boating, fishing, and hiking) to your itinerary.

Tamworth Distilling, Tamworth NH.

Along the mountain-lined highways and lake-speckled back roads of New Hampshire, tucked below towering Mount Chocorua, and just a few miles away from the Lake lies the charming town of Tamworth. So sweet and small, if you blinked, you might miss it. But, you definitely don’t want to! Tamworth is an idyllic destination for a one-day jaunt or an overnight stay. (Insider tip: be sure to visit wilderness-to bottle-distillery, Tamworth Distilling, for picturesque spirit tastings right by the river). After a restful sleep, we hit the road and headed home, ready to plan for our next adventure.

Road Dogs of Interstate 91

So which destination won you ask? I would ever so slightly give the win to Vermont - the rolling hills and idyllic farmland really helped this beloved state pull ahead. To be fair, we just focused on the Green Mountain region of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

WHERE TO EAT:

• Hartland Diner, Hartland, VT. - a wonderfully quirky diner serving up delicious breakfast and some great veggie options, too

• The Village Butcher, Woodstock, VT. - a quaint store with delicious sandwiches and carefully curated selection of charcuterie, wines, and snacks perfect for a fall picnic

• Marsh Brothers Deli at the Little Store, Lebanon, NH - we stopped by for their daily special, a Thanksgiving sandwich that is somehow better than all of the Thanksgiving dinners combined

• Winnipesaukee Bay Gulls, Moultonborough, NH - no nonsense bagel shop

• Cup & Crumb, Moultonborough, NH - a small coffee shop and bakery specializing in scratch-made goodies and freshly-ground coffee. Kick start your day with a breakfast pastry and a latte

Marsh Brothers Deli at the Little Store, Lebanon, NH

WHERE TO STAY :

• Woodstock Inn, Woodstock, VT. - Boasts an inspirational setting in the heart of town. Plan early for this one as they sell out fast. Expensive but worth it.

• Highland House B&B, Tamworth, NH. - Set on a hill above picturesque Tamworth, Highland House looms large. In 1792 retired Salem sea captain, George Dodge, chose this delightful spot to build his beloved home.

• Mill Falls at the Lake, Meredith, NH. - Located along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in the quaint town of Meredith, there are four adorable inns to choose from, all with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We selected pet-friendly, Mills Falls, and were pleased with the pet amenities and friendly check-in service!