Vermont Baking & Fall Getaway Overnight Trip
Join us October 9-10, 2026
Experience the beauty, flavors, and charm of Vermont during one of the most spectacular times of the year! Join Kira from the Old Orchard Beach Recreation Department for a two-day, one-night adventure featuring a private hands-on baking class, scenic fall foliage, local food, and plenty of New England charm.
Our journey begins Friday morning as we travel to Norwich, Vermont, home of the renowned King Arthur Baking Company. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at the King Arthur Café (on your own), browse the famous King Arthur Store, and take part in a private hands-on baking class led by the King Arthur Baking School. Whether you're an experienced baker or simply enjoy spending time in the kitchen, this interactive class is sure to be a memorable experience!
Following class, we'll check into our hotel to freshen up before heading out for a group dinner (on your own) and a relaxing evening.
On Saturday morning, we will continue our Vermont adventure with a stop at the breathtaking Quechee Gorge, often referred to as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon." We'll then take some time to explore the Quechee Gorge Village, where we will have time to stop and do some shopping at the Quechee General Store, Vermont Antique Mall, Vermont Alpaca Store, and more!
Before heading home, we'll spend time at the Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch from one of the many food trucks (on your own), shop from over 100 local artisans and crafters, browse seasonal vendors, and soak in the festive atmosphere of a classic fall fair.
Throughout the weekend, enjoy scenic drives through the colorful Vermont countryside as we take in some of New England's most beautiful autumn foliage.
Trip Fee
The base cost of this trip is $415 per person. This is the price for a double room, with a roommate. There is an add-on fee of $150 if you would like a single room, bringing your total fee to $565. If you would like a single room, make sure you select the single room add-on at the time of registration.
Trip Fee Includes:
- Round-trip bus transportation from the Old Orchard Beach Recreation Department
- Bus parking fees
- One-night hotel accommodations
- Private 3-hour King Arthur Baking School class and instructor
- Admission to the Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival
- Recreation Department trip leader
Meals
Included:
Hotel Breakfast on Saturday morning
On Your Own:
Friday lunch at the King Arthur Café
Friday dinner
Saturday lunch at the Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival
**Please feel free to pack snacks or bring breakfast with you to enjoy on the bus on Friday morning.
Activity Level:
This trip includes moderate walking on sidewalks, paved paths, and uneven terrain. Participants should be comfortable walking moderate distances and standing for periods of time while shopping and exploring.
Hotel Information
We will be staying at the Comfort Inn White River Junction. We have a block of rooms together in the same area of the hotel. Amenities include: free Wifi, free hot breakfast, free coffee, elevators, 100% smoke free.
**There is an option for single or double rooms, there are only a few single rooms available. Please let me know immediately if you need a single room, and I will do my best to accommodate you. If you are booking a double room, please list who you would like your roommate to be at time of registration.
Class Information
We will be taking part in their 3-hour Rustic Autumn Tarts class. We will learn how to make their versatile pastry dough, which is the foundation for creating elegant tarts with BIG flavor and little fuss.
We will start by making an apple crostata that is beautifully packed with fresh, local seasonal fruit. Next, we will learn how to make a savory tart filled with a lemony ricotta filling, fig jam, prosciutto, and finished with fresh arugula for the right balance of color and spice!
We will leave with the skills and knowledge to replicate these delicious and approachable tarts at home, and even better, these tarts require no special pans to make!
Apples & Crafts & Food Trucks Festival
This an an annual fall fair that celebrates fall foliage, local artisans, and great food! Featuring more than 100 artisans and producers, visitors can browse jewellery, pottery, clothing, photography, and other handcrafted goods while enjoying delicious bites from local food trucks! Any purchases made here will be on your own.
Additional Important Information:
- Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as several portions of this trip take place outdoors.
- I would recommend packing a small cooler and a reusable water bottle, that way you can keep any purchases cold while on the bus. And have a access to a drink while we are walking and/or driving around.
- The itinerary (other than the cooking class and hotel), is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. We will do our best to have this trip run as planned, however, if there is bad weather and the festival gets cancelled that day, that is out of our control, and we will do our best to find a comparable experience to accommodate everyone.
- This is an adult-only trip! Participants must be 18 or older to register.
- Space is limited to 12 participants, allowing for a personalized, small-group travel experience. Early registration is encouraged as this trip is expected to fill quickly.
Refund Policy
Due to the advance purchase of hotel accommodations, activity reservations, and other pre-paid expenses, no refunds will be issued unless your roster spot can be filled by another participant. If your registration can be filled from a waitlist or by another eligible participant, a refund will be issued less any non-refundable expenses incurred by the Recreation Department.