Back in July (yes, July!) I was already dreading the inevitable seasonal depression that comes with winter. What better way to get ahead of it than to fully immerse myself in the ever changing landscape of the northeast and all the beauty each season has to offer?! I decided I needed some intensely good fall foliage this year, and knew my best bets were upstate NY, VT, NH or ME. Since I went to Maine earlier in the summer (see blog post here) and have been to upstate NY millions of times (blog post here) I narrowed it down to VT and NH and began searching on Airbnb. Usually instead of searching specific dates I’ll go with a wide range to ensure finding the best place, but in this case, I was after one thing, so I used this foliage tracker to help me decide when the best time to come would be.
My criteria: keep it general, search the entire state but vary by filter such as:
- type of place: have the entire place to yourself
- amenities: self check in, indoor fireplace, waterfront
- property type: house, cottage, guest house
Once I get those results, I literally just look through the results and see what catches my eye and has good reviews. Keep in mind, some places have horrible pictures, but the reviews rave about how good the views are! Once I find a place, I google the area (again, read reviews) to see what there is to do around there and if its a place I’d like to go. I think being from NYC gives me an open mind about any other place- a little bit of nature goes a long way for me.
Here is the link to the Airbnb I stayed at in Hew Hampshire. It’s a “tiny house”, built by the friendly owners of the main house. It sits atop the Merrimack River in Hooksett, NH. The house is indeed tiny, 12×12, complete with a double bed, mini fridge, microwave, electric fireplace, outdoor grill, bathtub & shower and lastly, a composting toilet (this was interesting). You have a lovely view on the trees and the river from bed, and can use the grill and back patio area to cook and enjoy a meal. There are steps heading down to the river, and a dock and chairs to hang out on. I really enjoyed my stay here!
Things to do around Hooksett:
- tour the Zimmerman House by Frank Lloyd Wright (advance reservation required)
- visit the Currier Museum (an art Museum in Manchester)
- take a nature walk around the Lake Massabesic trail
- visit the historic home of President Franklin Pierce, the Pierce Manse
- drive over to Concord to have lunch (I went here)
- browse antique shops. I went here and one that just opened so it’s not online yet, but it’s called Antique & Estates located on 208 North Main Street, Concord
- try some breweries
Let me know if you plan to go!
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