Massachusetts • New Hampshire • Vermont • New York

This trip was everything I wanted fall to be..winding drives, crisp mornings, and postcard-perfect scenery everywhere we turned. We started in Boston, where every street feels like a piece of history, and then made our way through Salem, Manchester, Woodstock, Montpelier,Stowe, Waterbury, and Burlington before crossing into New York. We followed the changing leaves through theAdirondack Mountains, stopped at Lake George, wandered through Saratoga Springs, and ended in Albany.

Each place had its own personality — Boston was bold and busy, Woodstock was pure small-town magic, and Stowe looked exactly like a snow globe even without the snow. The drives between towns were as beautiful as the destinations. The mountain views, covered bridges, and roadside farm stands made every mile feel intentional.

I will say, eating gluten-free was challenging. Vermont especially tested my patience — menus leaned heavily on bread, pancakes, and pastries, and even “gluten-friendly”spots didn’t always feel safe. I managed by sticking to the basics: grilled meats, plain rice, fruit, and the occasional salad I trusted. It reminded me how much planning and awareness this lifestyle takes, especially while traveling.

Still, despite the food stress, it was one of those trips that fills you up in a different way — with beauty, connection, and perspective. We hit four states in total, logged a lot of miles, and made memories I’ll keep with me forever.

✨ What This Trip Taught Me

Travel always finds a way to reveal where you’ve grown. For me, this trip was about resilience and presence — learning to adapt when things weren’t ideal, slowing down when my body needed it, and remembering that beauty doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. There were moments when I felt frustrated by food limitations or tired from long drives, but each stop reminded me how lucky I am to be healing, mobile, and able to explore new corners of the world.

Sometimes, the biggest joy comes from simply noticing — the way the morning fog sits on the trees, or how the air smells different after crossing into another state.

🥗 Gluten-Free Travel Lessons

Pack your non-negotiables. I brought my teas, collagen, and a few safe snacks, and I was grateful for every one of them.

Don’t assume “gluten-friendly” means safe. Always double-check how food is prepared — Vermont bakeries in particular love shared surfaces.

Simplify your meals. When in doubt, order plain proteins and safe sides. Some of my best meals were the simplest ones.

Map grocery stops. Whole Foods, Target, and local co-ops often saved the day.

Be kind to your body. Travel isn’t the time to test limits — it’s a time to stay steady and grounded so you can