Amtrak Vacations is promoting autumn journeys through New England, combining train travel with stays and activities at destinations along the way. For travelers planning a foliage trip, the practical questions are which route to take and what the vacation package includes.
The company, part of Railbookers Group, describes itself as Amtrak's national tour operator. It says its specialists arrange rail tickets, hotels and sightseeing, with options to change departure dates or add nights. Travelers can also request rental cars and other activities when building an itinerary.
One regional route is the Downeaster, which links Boston with Portland and Brunswick, Maine. Amtrak Vacations lists it among its featured rail routes. Amtrak identifies Portland and Brunswick as route destinations, giving travelers the option to plan time in either city rather than spend the entire trip aboard a train.
Boston connections require attention. Downeaster trains use North Station, while other Amtrak services in Boston use South Station and Back Bay. Amtrak says it does not provide connecting transfers to or from North Station, so passengers must arrange that transportation themselves.
For Vermont, the Vermonter runs daily between Washington, D.C., and St. Albans, traveling through Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire before reaching Vermont. Amtrak's route guide includes Brattleboro and Waterbury among its featured stops.
Amtrak Vacations says most of its trips can be arranged in reverse order. It also allows travelers to fly to the first destination, take a train one way and fly home from another city. Those options can change how a traveler organizes a longer New England stay.
On the Downeaster, Amtrak lists coach and business-class seating, along with cafe service and onboard Wi-Fi. The railroad cautions that amenities vary by train and that a preferred seat orientation is not guaranteed. Passengers planning to photograph scenery should check their specific departure rather than assume a particular seat or onboard arrangement.
The fall-foliage page does not provide a single price for a New England trip. Before booking, travelers should request a dated itinerary and confirm which meals, transfers and excursions are included, along with cancellation terms. They should also check current train notices: Amtrak lists a Downeaster service adjustment effective September 26 through October 11, 2026.
Updated October 2: This article has been expanded with additional sourced context.
Sources:
https://www.amtrakvacations.com/travel-styles/fall-foliage
https://www.amtrakvacations.com/about-amtrak-vacations
https://www.amtrakvacations.com/travel-styles/famous-routes
https://www.amtrak.com/downeaster-train