Anyone who knows New England knows the best weather comes in the fall. Sunny skies, crisp dry air and a clean, vibrant feel to the season make for great excursions. You may not want to go to the most popular leaf-peeping locations - it can get crowded out there - but a trip to Newport, or the North Shore or even, perhaps, around the Quabbin might be in order. This year, do it in style with our Speedster or Mustang convertible! We still have several dates available in October. Weather permitting, we'll probably stay available as late as mid-November. For an eclectic list of suggestions see our "must-dos" below.

 

Welcome the New Kid on the Block
There's a new place to rent your favorite classic car! Capital Connoisseur Cars, based in the Washington DC metro area, is now open for business. Jimmy McArdle is the owner - a certified car nut and inheritor from his Dad of a truly wide-ranging and unique collection of vintage sports cars, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles. Jimmy will soon be taking the same "starting a classic car hire business" from Tony Merrygold in the UK as we took 18 months ago. We wish Jimmy the best of luck with the course and with his new venture. Visit his website and make a reservation for the next time you're in the DC area!

 

Must-Do Events during September and October
September 11
Take a tour of Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich. A National Historic Landmark, this magnificent mansion was the Crane family's summer "cottage" during the 1920-40s. Tours feature historically furnished rooms, ornate woodcarvings, sterling silver bathroom fixtures, stunning ocean views, and important architectural details.

 

September 19-20
The British Invasion in Stowe, Vermont. A complete weekend (and more) devoted to the best of British motoring in a stunning setting. Driving tours, judging, great fun!

 

September 26-27
Two stellar events to choose from this weekend - or do both!
On both days enjoy the Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival. What could be better? Classic architecture, great food and great wine. On Sunday, enjoy the annual Bonham's Auction at Larz Anderson Auto Museum. Even if you're not in the market for a classic car, you can enjoy the action as scores of beautiful classics change hands. Exciting!

October 4
Take in a vintage baseball double-header at the Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm in Newbury, Mass. The Essex Baseball Club will be playing old-fashioned baseball against the Lynn Live Oaks, Fitchburg Rollstones, and Ipswich Brewers, using 1861 rules. Players pitch underhand, no gloves are allowed, and a ball bounced once and caught counts as an out. Beer samples provided by Ipswich Ale.
- or -
Take a trip up to Owl's Head Maine for foreign auto and antique aeroplane show. A unique event with lot's of special cars to see with the added attraction of a vintage plane show.

 

October 10-12 Columbus Day Weekend
October 11
The annual Drive for Wishes car show in Burlington takes place to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation. In its third year, this show has already become a "must-go" for all aficionados. European and American, pre-war and contemporary, this show has it all.

 

Well, it's October, so what better time for an Oktoberfest? There are at least two for all beer lovers -- one is the Harpoon Brewery's famous festival in Windsor, Vermont. A great location for fall color as well as fresh Harpoon Oktoberfest beer, German food, and German Oompah music.
-- or --
Enjoy Biergartens, bratwurst, and Bavarian music at the 17th Annual International Oktoberfest!, in Newport, RI. There will be Bavarian bands, yodelers and dance troupes direct from Germany, international food and beverage, and the ever-expanding International Biergarten, featuring a staggering selection of domestic and international brews!

 

October 18
An unusual combination, so sure to please. The Shaker Village at Canterbury, NH is the venue for Thunderama, a national car show exclusively for Thunderbirds! Canterbury is a favorite spot - you can immediately step back 100 years in time and savor the tranquility of a special county spot. Add the best of one of America's favorite cars and you'll be guaranteed a good time.

 

October 24
Head to the North Shore for the Essex Clam Fest. All you can eat and all you can savor of the salty air! While in the vicinity, visit Salem - the city spends all October getting ready for Halloween. Enjoy some witches' brew!
 
 

Have FUN out there!