Experience the Heart of Rhode Island’s Fall Colors with a Thoughtfully Designed Tour
If you’re looking to soak in the vibrant fall scenery of Rhode Island without the hassle of planning, this Autumn Tour in New England offers a delightful mix of nature, history, and local charm. For just $100 per person, you get about six and a half hours of carefully curated stops, including a horse-drawn wagon ride, apple picking, and visits to historic landmarks—all led by knowledgeable guides who love sharing their stories. The tour is designed to showcase Rhode Island’s unique rural character, and the small group size (max 28 travelers) ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd.
What we love most about this experience is the way it balances picturesque scenery with local culture. The stops at the last covered bridge on a public road in Rhode Island and the state’s oldest country store give you authentic glimpses of rural life. Plus, the opportunity to meet farm animals and take a hayride through the woods adds a genuine farm-to-table feel to your day. The tour’s emphasis on storytelling means you’ll leave with a richer understanding of Rhode Island’s landscape and history.
One point to consider is that meals are not included, so you should plan to purchase lunch during the Groundwater Cafe stop. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather might lead to cancellations or adjustments, though you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and small-group experiences—especially those who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Rhode Island’s countryside during peak fall season.
Key Points
- Authentic rural experiences like horse-drawn hayrides and apple picking
- Knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories about local history and people
- Beautiful scenic stops including the last covered bridge on a public road in RI
- Diverse attractions packed into a manageable half-day trip
- Value for money considering all included attractions and personalized attention
- Weather flexibility with options for rescheduling or refunds if conditions aren’t ideal
A Detailed Look at the Autumn in New England Tour
When we set out on this Rhode Island autumn tour, we were immediately struck by its charm and the thoughtful way it covers the highlights of the state’s rural regions. For a modest $100, you’re paying for more than just transportation—you’re investing in a comprehensive experience that reveals Rhode Island’s natural beauty and local traditions. The tour lasts approximately six and a half hours, making it perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, well-paced day that doesn’t cut into your entire vacation.
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Starting Point: Scituate Reservoir
Our journey begins with a quick stop at the Scituate Reservoir, which supplies drinking water for much of Rhode Island. The view here is a peaceful introduction to the landscape—large, tranquil waters framed by fall-colored trees. The best part? It’s a free stop, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the scenic waters and the surrounding foliage. It’s a calming start that sets the tone for the day.
Foster: A Peek into the Past
Next, the tour moves on to Foster, where two highlights await—the Swamp Meadow covered bridge and the Jerimoth Hill, Rhode Island’s highest point. The covered bridge is the last on a public road in the state, making it a rare and photogenic relic of old New England craftsmanship. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that’s lasted generations.
A short drive later, we reached Jerimoth Hill, offering a sweeping view of Rhode Island’s terrain from its highest point. Though only about 295 feet tall, it’s a fun and slightly quirky stop that gives a sense of the landscape’s variability. The tour includes a leisurely hour and a half here, including a break at the Groundwater Cafe, where you can grab a coffee or snack.
Glocester: Historic Charm and Shopping
From Foster, the tour takes us to Glocester, where the highlight is the Chepachet village and the Brown & Hopkins Country Store—the oldest country store in Rhode Island. The store’s vintage charm and selection of gifts and antiques make it a delightful stop for browsing and picking up a unique souvenir. The village itself exudes small-town charm, with historic buildings and friendly local shops that give you a feel for life beyond the urban rush.
Burrillville: Nature and Farm Life
The next stop is Liberty Farm in Burrillville, where a horse-drawn hayride through the woods promises a rustic experience. The ride itself is scenic, with the vibrant fall foliage providing a stunning backdrop. The farm also hosts a collection of farm animals, giving visitors a chance to meet goats, chickens, and maybe even a friendly pig. According to reviews, this stop is a favorite—“Liked the horse-drawn hay ride,” one traveler remarked—highlighting how this simple farm activity leaves a lasting impression.
Johnston: Apple Picking at Dame Farm
Finally, the tour concludes with apple picking at Dame Farm in Johnston. This activity allows visitors to enjoy fresh apples straight from the trees, an authentic farm-to-table experience. The 45-minute stop is short but sweet, offering a tangible taste of rural Rhode Island. It’s a great way to connect with the land and take home a piece of your visit—if you choose to buy some.
What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind
All the attractions listed are included in the $100 fee, making this a great value for a day packed with diverse experiences. Note that lunch is not included, so planning ahead to either bring snacks or buy at the Groundwater Cafe is advised. The tour is designed to be accessible, with pickup offered and proximity to public transportation, making it convenient for many travelers.
The tour operates with a small group maximum of 28 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere and allows the guides to interact personally with each guest. The guides, like Ted, are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the stops more meaningful. As one reviewer put it, “Ted was incredible and very knowledgeable,” which elevates the entire experience.
Weather and Cancellation Policy
Since the tour is weather-dependent, bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling. However, if that happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for changing plans.
Authentic Experiences That Make a Difference
One of the most appreciated aspects, as reflected in reviews, is the personal touch of the guides, who are enthusiastic about sharing stories and answering questions. The stunning views along the route—especially during the hayride and scenic stops—are genuinely memorable, perfect for travelers who love capturing photos or simply absorbing nature’s beauty.
The stops at historic landmarks and local farms provide a window into Rhode Island’s rural life and give you opportunities to engage with local people and traditions. The horse-drawn hayride and apple-picking are not just tourist activities but authentic experiences that help you connect with the land.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a relaxed, small-group experience of Rhode Island’s countryside. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to explore off the beaten path without a lot of walking or complicated logistics. Given the emphasis on storytelling, it also suits those who enjoy learning about local culture and history in an informal setting.
Summary: Why This Tour Is a Great Pick
In essence, this Autumn Tour in New England offers a well-rounded taste of Rhode Island’s rural landscape, history, and farm life. The combination of scenic stops, engaging guides, and authentic experiences makes it a worthwhile addition to your Rhode Island visit—especially during fall when the scenery is at its most breathtaking. For just $100, you receive a full day of discovery, with the added benefit of small-group intimacy and personalized attention.
If you value engaging storytelling, beautiful scenery, and historic charm, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of Rhode Island that many visitors might overlook and to gather stories and photos to cherish long after the leaves have fallen.
FAQ
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, making it a comprehensive yet relaxed day trip.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can buy food during the Groundwater Cafe stop or bring your own snacks.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s easy pace makes it suitable for a wide age range.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour is conducted via tour bus, so you won’t need to worry about driving.
Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic stops and picturesque landscapes make it perfect for capturing memorable photos.
How far in advance should I book?
On average, most travelers book about 15 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure your spot.
Embark on this charming Rhode Island autumn tour and discover a side of New England that’s beautifully scenic, authentically rural, and full of stories worth sharing.