Leaf Peeping in New England: Best Fall Foliage Road Trips & Car Care Tips

There’s nothing quite like autumn in New England. As crisp air rolls in and the trees burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, our region becomes the ultimate destination for leaf peeping road trips.

Whether you’re chasing fall foliage in southern New Hampshire or exploring Maine’s backroads, Sullivan Tire is here to keep your car ready for the ride—with convenient locations in Keene, NH; Concord, NH; Auburn, ME; and Augusta, ME (and many more!).

The History of Leaf Peeping in New England

The term “leaf peeping” may sound playful, but it’s a tradition rooted in New England culture. Since the 1950s, travelers have made their way to the region to soak in the fleeting beauty of fall. Today, it’s more than just sightseeing—it’s a seasonal pastime that boosts tourism, supports local businesses, and inspires unforgettable family road trips.

Peak Season Foliage Trips Require Car Prep

October marks peak foliage season in New England, but it also brings seasonal driving challenges:

• Cooler mornings and fog
• Slick roads from fallen leaves
• Sun glare from the lower autumn sun

If you’re planning a drive, make sure your car is road-ready. You can do this by scheduling a Vehicle Health Report at your local Sullivan Tire. Our certified technicians will inspect your vehicle from top to bottom and provide you with a report indicating what needs immediate attention, what may require future work, and what's in good condition. 

Top Leaf Peeping Stops Near Our Locations

Planning your fall foliage adventure? Here’s where to explore—and where you can stop for quick car care along the way:

• Leaf Peeping in Southern New Hampshire
  • Start in Keene, NH, the heart of the Monadnock Region, known for its rolling hills and fiery red maples.
  • Visit Concord, NH, for easy access to both the Lakes Region and White Mountain drives.
  • Stop at our Keene or Concord Sullivan Tire locations for a tire pressure check, brake inspection, or quick oil change before heading out.
• Fall Foliage Drives in Maine
  • From Auburn, ME, take Route 4 toward Rangeley Lake for panoramic mountain views.
  • In Augusta, ME, you’re right by the Kennebec Valley and within reach of the stunning Midcoast.
  • Our Auburn and Augusta Sullivan Tire locations are here to help with new wiper blades, fresh tires, or seasonal maintenance before (or during!) your road trip.

Drive Smart for Fall Foliage Season

The beauty of New England’s foliage only lasts a few weeks, so every trip counts. To make the most of your drive:

• Watch for falling leaves and wet roads
• Check tire pressure as temps drop
• Replace worn wiper blades for clear views in morning fog

At Sullivan Tire in Keene, Concord, Auburn, and Augusta, our teams provide fast, friendly auto service so you can focus on the scenery—not car troubles. If you’d like to find other locations along your driving route, go here: Sullivan Locations. No matter where you're leaf peeping in New England, We're Always Here To Get You There®!