New England Fall Foliage

Start your journey in Portland, where history meets modernity in a perfect blend of the old and the new. Your New England Fall Foliage cruise includes a Hotel Stay, ensuring a smooth transition to boarding the ship and providing time to explore the surrounding locale. At your leisure, discover the charm of working fishing wharves intertwined with converted warehouses that now house the city’s best eclectic restaurants and shops. This area is one of the most well-preserved Victorian-era urban areas in the United States.On the moring or your cruise, gather in the hotel lobby and we will take you to the ship to start your adventure. All your bags will be transferred directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship, making the beginning of your New England cruise experience seamless and worry-free.

Portland, Maine The largest city in Maine, Portland was founded in 1632 on the Casco Bay Peninsula. It quickly prospered through shipbuilding and the export of inland pines which made excellent masts. A long line of wooden wharves stretched along the seafront, with the merchants' houses on the hillside above. From the earliest days it was a cosmopolitan city. When the railroads came, the Canada Trunk Line had its terminal right on Portland's quayside, bringing the produce of Canada and the Great Plains one hundred miles closer to Europe than any other major U.S. port. Some of the wharves are now occupied by new condominium developments, with the exception of the Customs House Wharf, which remains much as it used to be. Grand Trunk Station was torn down in 1966 and a revitalization program of this historic section was spearheaded by a group of committed residents. The result was the revival of the Old Port Exchange District with its redbrick streets built in the 1860s following a disastrous fire. The area today features a wide variety of restaurants, specialty and antique shops, and makes for a pleasant place for a stroll. Congress Street and its many side streets are an engaging mixture of culture, commerce and history. Art is everywhere, from the Portland Museum of Art to the many statues and monuments throughout the city. Other points of interest include the Portland Observatory, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's childhood home, several colonial mansions and Fort Williams Park, with the adjacent Portland Head Light. Farther afield one can visit the charming yachting and fishing village of Kennebunkport, also noted as the locale of the home and summer White House of former President George Bush. Going Ashore in Portland Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at the Portland Ocean Terminal, a very easy walk to the Old Port District located about two blocks away. Taxis are available at the pier. Shopping A wide range of Maine-made clothing, crafts and imported items can be found in shops along the cobblestone streets of the quaint Old Port Exchange. Small boutiques and numerous art galleries feature everything from paintings, crafts and furniture to prints and photographs. Antique lovers will enjoy browsing through area shops. Bargain hunters may want to visit the designer factory outlet shops in Freeport. On Sundays, most shops are open from 12:00 noon to 5:00-6:00 p.m. The local currency is the dollar. Cuisine Portland has the most restaurants per capita, second only to San Francisco. Eating establishments are as diverse as the menus they offer. The fresh catch of the day can be found on most menus, but seafood is only one of many culinary delights. From specialty coffee houses and ethnic restaurants to chowder and lobster houses to elegant dining rooms, Portland makes it easy to please every palate. Other Sights Longfellow's "City by the Sea" Portland is a walkable city, and a good place to start exploring is at the Old Port with its striking buildings comprising a bevy of architectural styles, ranging from Italianate to Mansard, Queen Anne to Greek Revival. The charming streets house an amazing collection of shops, galleries, bookstores and restaurants. Congress Street and the Arts District reflect the changes of 350 years of history, boasting an engaging mixture of culture and commerce. Portland Museum of Art The museum's award-winning building is a blend of 1911 Beaux Arts and 1983 post-modernism. It houses one of New England's finest art collections. Don't miss the museum's indoor Sculpture Garden. Portland Observatory Built in 1807, this is a rare example of a signal tower from which signal flags would be flown to identify incoming vessels. Factory Outlets of Freeport About a 25-minute drive north of Portland (approximately $35 one way for a taxi), this shopping mecca is crammed with serious shoppers who come from as far away as New York. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board.

As we make our way around Maine, we’ll stop in a city that stands as a testament to seafaring grace and architectural dignity, framed by the sprawling waters of the Kennebec River. The city's streets, lined with stately homes and historic buildings, invite leisurely exploration, hinting at its storied past as a shipbuilding hub. High above the riverbanks, the Maine Maritime Museum offers a gateway to the maritime traditions that have shaped this community, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that weave a narrative of oceanic adventures. In the city center, local cafes, and shops bustle with activity, providing a warm welcome to visitors and residents alike. As the day wanes, the river reflects the sunset hues, casting Bath in a soft, enchanting light, marking the end of another day on this dynamic itinerary.

Portsmouth shares its autumn glory as historic Market Square becomes a canvas of fiery maple and oak leaves. Along the scenic Prescott Park, views of the Piscataqua River are framed by golden foliage, providing a picturesque setting for afternoon walks. The city's maritime history is proudly displayed at the bustling seaport, where tugboats and fishing vessels remind visitors of Portsmouth's deep roots in New England's fishing industry. During the fall, the town's numerous cafes spill onto sidewalks beneath awnings, inviting you to enjoy a warm drink surrounded by the vibrant palette of New England's autumn.

One day is not enough in this historic coastal town, where 18th-century brick buildings stand as a testament to its role in the American Revolution and early shipbuilding industry. Stroll through Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor living history museum where centuries-old buildings and costumed interpreters tell the town’s colonial story. With its well-preserved colonial homes and historic sites like the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the town offers a deep connection to America's early history while embracing modern-day culture.

Gloucester, Massachusetts, stands as a proud testament to maritime history on the North Shore, where art and historical narratives blend seamlessly against the Atlantic's expanse. The town's streets are lined with galleries and seafood restaurants that reflect the ongoing vitality of its fishing community. As autumn arrives, the landscape subtly shifts; the ocean's perpetual breeze carries a slightly sharper, cooler whisper, harmonizing with the soft rustle of changing leaves. Trails through Ravenswood Park become corridors of muted yellows and deep reds, offering peaceful walks under a seasonal canopy. Whether strolling along its historic harbor or exploring cultural sites, Gloucester merges natural beauty with its deep-rooted seafaring legacy.

Deeply woven into the fabric of American history, this major city hosts iconic sites pivotal to the nation's early challenges and triumphs. The Freedom Trail links critical landmarks such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere’s House, places central to the American Revolution. As autumn unfolds, Boston’s public spaces, like the Boston Common and the Public Garden, don an array of amber and crimson leaves, presenting a contrast between historic sites and contemporary architecture. Pathways along the Charles River invite peaceful strolls to watch the leaves fall gently, offering striking views that marry the city's natural beauty with its urban energy. Boston continuously celebrates its historical significance through its monuments and museums while engaging in a vibrant cultural dialogue, maintaining a dynamic balance between honoring its past and embracing its future.

There’s history and culture around every bend in Boston—skyscrapers nestle next to historic hotels while modern marketplaces line the antique cobblestone streets. But to Bostonians, living in a city that blends yesterday and today is just another day in beloved Beantown.

With the summer crowds thinning, now is the perfect time to visit this island off the coast of Cape Cod, MA. Made up of only six towns and no bridges connecting to the mainland, Martha’s Vineyard is a secluded paradise. The once thriving whaling industry can be seen in the still standing historic buildings and array of captain’s mansions. Known for its famous Gingerbread Cottages, get ready for a true rainbow of color as the leaves turn bright against the ornate details of these Victorian-style homes. While the waters seem to go on forever as you stand on the sandy shores, know you’re standing on cinema history as the 1975 masterpiece Jaws was filmed right here.

Nantucket Island, a jewel off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and a historic charm that feels timeless. Spanning a modest 105 square miles, the island’s flat terrain is adorned with expansive heathlands and golden sandy stretches that invite leisurely strolls. Once the heart of a bustling 19th-century whaling industry, Nantucket’s downtown area is a living museum, with beautifully preserved buildings whispering tales of yesteryear. Wander through the captivating Whaling Museum, marvel at the iconic Brant Point Light standing as a sentinel since 1746, and embark on a guided tour of the island, choosing from either half-day or full-day adventures. Every summer, Nantucket transforms as the population soars to nearly 50,000, drawing visitors eager to explore its serene shores and enchanting, cobblestoned streets, where every corner holds a piece of history and beauty.

Within Narragansett Bay lies Newport, Rhode Island, renowned as the yachting capital of the world. As you stroll along the shores of its beautiful beaches, historic neighborhoods like The Point and Historic Hill offer a glimpse into Newport's storied past with their cobblestone streets and preserved Colonial-era architecture. Visit one of America’s oldest fortifications at Fort Adams, a now state park, that was active from the War of 1812 through World War II. Constructed between 1824 and 1857, it's one of the largest coastal fortifications in the United States, designed to house over 2,400 troops and equipped with powerful defensive features for coastal defense. Today, Fort Adams is a public historic site, hosting various events including the famous Newport Jazz Festival and offering guided tours that showcase its extensive military history and architectural significance.

Established in 1639 by a small band of religious dissenters led by William Coddington and Nicholas Easton, the city by the sea became a haven for those who believed in religious freedom. Newport’s deepwater harbor at the mouth of Narragansett Bay ensured its success as a leading Colonial port, and a building boom produced hundreds of houses and many landmarks that still survive today. These include the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and the White Horse Tavern, both built during the 17th century, plus Trinity Church, Touro Synagogue, the Colony House, and the Redwood Library, all built in the 18th century.British troops occupied Newport from 1776–1779, causing half the city’s population to flee and ending a golden age of prosperity. The economic downturn that followed may not have been so great for its citizens but it certainly was for preserving Newport’s architectural heritage, as few had the capital to raze buildings and replace them with bigger and better ones. By the mid-19th century the city had gained a reputation as the summer playground for the very wealthy, who built enormous mansions overlooking the Atlantic. These so-called "summer cottages," occupied for only six to eight weeks a year by the Vanderbilts, Berwinds, Astors, and Belmonts, helped establish the best young American architects. The presence of these wealthy families also brought the New York Yacht Club, which made Newport the venue for the America’s Cup races beginning in 1930 until the 1983 loss to the Australians.The Gilded Age mansions of Bellevue Avenue are what many people associate most with Newport. These late-19th-century homes are almost obscenely grand, laden with ornate rococo detail and designed with a determined one-upmanship.Pedestrian-friendly Newport has so much else to offer in a relatively small geographical area— beaches, seafood restaurants, galleries, shopping, and cultural life. Summer can be crowded, but fall and spring are increasingly popular times of the year to visit.

Spend a second day in this city known for its Gilded Age mansions that once served as summer "cottages" for America’s wealthiest families. Explore Newport's fabled history with a visit to the iconic "Avenue of the Mansions," where extravagant seaside estates like The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff allow you to relive the lives of the elite of the Gilded Age.

Established in 1639 by a small band of religious dissenters led by William Coddington and Nicholas Easton, the city by the sea became a haven for those who believed in religious freedom. Newport’s deepwater harbor at the mouth of Narragansett Bay ensured its success as a leading Colonial port, and a building boom produced hundreds of houses and many landmarks that still survive today. These include the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and the White Horse Tavern, both built during the 17th century, plus Trinity Church, Touro Synagogue, the Colony House, and the Redwood Library, all built in the 18th century.British troops occupied Newport from 1776–1779, causing half the city’s population to flee and ending a golden age of prosperity. The economic downturn that followed may not have been so great for its citizens but it certainly was for preserving Newport’s architectural heritage, as few had the capital to raze buildings and replace them with bigger and better ones. By the mid-19th century the city had gained a reputation as the summer playground for the very wealthy, who built enormous mansions overlooking the Atlantic. These so-called "summer cottages," occupied for only six to eight weeks a year by the Vanderbilts, Berwinds, Astors, and Belmonts, helped establish the best young American architects. The presence of these wealthy families also brought the New York Yacht Club, which made Newport the venue for the America’s Cup races beginning in 1930 until the 1983 loss to the Australians.The Gilded Age mansions of Bellevue Avenue are what many people associate most with Newport. These late-19th-century homes are almost obscenely grand, laden with ornate rococo detail and designed with a determined one-upmanship.Pedestrian-friendly Newport has so much else to offer in a relatively small geographical area— beaches, seafood restaurants, galleries, shopping, and cultural life. Summer can be crowded, but fall and spring are increasingly popular times of the year to visit.

Sag Harbor holds a vibrant maritime history as a bustling whaling port in the 18th and 19th centuries, with its harbor once filled with ships hunting whales in the Atlantic. Historic landmarks like the Old Whalers' Church and the Custom House stand as testaments to its past, now housing museums that preserve and share Sag Harbor's history. Literary luminaries like John Steinbeck found inspiration in its quaint streets, penning masterpieces like "The Winter of Our Discontent" amidst its coastal charm. Sag Harbor's picturesque landscapes, with sprawling harbor views and historic architecture among tree-lined streets, evoke a timeless appeal that continues to captivate no matter the season.

New London, CT boasts a significant naval presence with the United States Coast Guard Academy training future officers and the Naval Submarine Base New London serving as a key East Coast submarine base. The city's maritime roots run deep, once thriving as a whaling port during the 19th century, contributing to its economic prosperity. Its vibrant arts and cultural scene enrich the community year-round. In contrast, Mystic, CT, offers a tranquil escape with its renowned maritime attractions, including the Mystic Seaport Museum, an outdoor museum providing insight into the growth of this small town. The village exudes charm with its quaint downtown area featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and unique shops and famous eateries. Don’t miss a chance to stop in for a slice at the famed Mystic Pizza from the titular movie that gave America’s sweetheart, Julia Roberts, her start in 1988. Together, these coastal towns showcase Connecticut's eclectic and profound influence on maritime history and offer diverse experiences.

Fall is the best time to visit this iconic port. In the heart of Westchester County, New York, lies Sleepy Hollow, a village shrouded in American folklore. Immortalized by Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," this historic hamlet beckons visitors to explore its haunted past. Wander through Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where the graves of Washington Irving and other notable figures share their secrets. Against the backdrop of the Old Dutch Church, where the Headless Horseman is said to roam, Sleepy Hollow invites intrepid travelers to uncover its secrets and embrace the enduring legacy of Irving's timeless tale. Some say you can still hear the hooves of the Headless Horseman echoing through the misty night.

The city that never sleeps. The Big Apple. The Concrete Jungle. While New York City goes by many names, this is a place that needs no introduction. As we approach and the iconic skyline comes into view you can trace the outline of the art deco inspired Chrysler Building and the Empire State building. Let Lady Liberty welcome you with her ever-burning torch. Explore on your own or let us take you through the grid system on a guided excursion filled with fun and history at every cross street.

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon of Times Square to Central Park's leafy paths, New York City pulses with an irrepressible energy. History meets hipness in this global center of entertainment, fashion, media, and finance. World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty beckon, but discovering the subtler strains of New York's vast ambition is equally rewarding: ethnic enclaves and shops, historic streets of dignified brownstones, and trendy bars and eateries all add to the urban buzz.

Have one last breakfast on board and begin to say goodbye to this fall foliage adventure. As you make your way home—or extend your stay here in NYC—American Cruise Lines thanks you for choosing us to see the nation with.

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon of Times Square to Central Park's leafy paths, New York City pulses with an irrepressible energy. History meets hipness in this global center of entertainment, fashion, media, and finance. World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty beckon, but discovering the subtler strains of New York's vast ambition is equally rewarding: ethnic enclaves and shops, historic streets of dignified brownstones, and trendy bars and eateries all add to the urban buzz.