Originally from Massachusetts, but it has been about a decade since I have seen the fall. I have two vacation weeks to choose from, 09/28-10/05 or 10/11-10/18, and was wondering which would be the best to get a good fall experience. I will be traveling to visit family from central MA through northern VT. Any suggestions are appreciated! Thanks

Since you are covering a large part of New England, either dates would work. The earlier dates would put you at peak in the far north, the later dates would be peak for southern VT, NH, and central Mass. Of course every year is a little different.

The October dates will be better for foliage. Although in the far northern part of VT it might be just past peak, I think overall mid October will be better. Check out this foliage predictor map to get an idea:
http://www.yankeefoliage.com/peak-foliage-forecast-map/

I'd vote for the first dates if you can start in northern VT. I have had to go to Providence RI for Columbus Day weekend. The colors are usually great along I95 and 495 but after the weekend when I get back to NH, I think the colors have a bit past peak in Concord NH area..

Peak foliage here in Western MA is USUALLY Columbus day weekend, but it very nice for a few weeks before, so I would start in the North in your first window.

I wonder if the damage caused by Irene will impact tourism there?

Vermont is making repairs. NH was able to re-open the famous Kancamagus Hwy this weekend in time for the next weekend's Highland Games. Flooding was serious in some places, some covered bridges were lost and travelers should check road reports but there are still plenty of places to go and beauty to see.

Will you be staying with your family? If not then book hotels very soon and expect prices to be high as its peak season.

Yeah, I'll be with family. I never knew it was such a popular vacation area. Slightly considering the week in between the dates previously listed as well, sucks that its a guessing game.

Columbus Day weekend expect traffic delays in popular areas. We'll see traffic stopped on I93 southbound on a Sunday afternoon since it gets backed up from the Hooksett toll booth and where I89 feeds into I93 south of Concord. But there are plenty of places that don't get heavy traffic.