New England In The Fall: Best Places to Go
New England in the fall is internationally recognized for having among the most spectacular fall foliage displays in the world. One of Mother Nature’s most dazzling displays, a kaleidoscope of vibrant reds, deep oranges and golden yellows transforms the landscape of this charming US state into a picture-perfect paradise.
Charming coastal communities and attractive national parks make New England a popular year-round destination but take a trip in late September and October and it’s even more magical. Whether you’re chasing this legendary foliage, enjoying the great outdoors, dining on fresh catch or cozying up in historic villages, take a look at the best places to experience the unparalleled beauty of New England’s fall season.
When is the best time to visit New England to see fall foliage?
The best time to visit New England to see fall foliage is typically from mid-September to late-October, the shoulder season. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the specific location within New England and the year’s weather patterns.
When is the peak fall foliage in New England?
The peak fall foliage season in New England typically runs from late September to mid-October, with colors moving from north to south. Northern regions, like New Hampshire and Maine, usually reach their peak in late September to early October. Meanwhile, central and southern areas such as southern Vermont, southern New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut see their most vibrant colors from early to mid-October.
What to wear in New England in the fall?
If you are planning a fall vacation to New England, focus on packing versatile clothing suitable for cool, variable. Layering is essential: bring base layers like T-shirts, mid-layers such as long-sleeve shirts and sweaters, and outer layers like waterproof jackets for rain. Breathable pants paired with comfortable, waterproof boots or sneakers are ideal for walking or hiking. Don’t forget your scarf, hat and gloves for those chilly (but beautiful) mornings and evenings.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Maine
Maine is the north easternmost state of the USA and is also known as the Pine Tree State, which gives a good hint to why it is such a beautiful fall destination. Renowned for Acadia National Park’s breathtaking landscapes, picturesque lighthouses and numerous charming coastal communities as well as effervescent foliage and lively festivals, this maritime state is a great destination to experience New England in the fall.
Highlights include the beautiful seaside village of Camden with its world-famous harbor and inviting Camden Hills State Park state park, it’s a perfect leaf peeping spot – we recommend taking the Mount Battie Trail. Another great spot is Kennebunkport, a pretty coastal town situated at the mouth of the Kennebunk River, and Portland, a famed craft beer and wine destination and home to Claude Monet’s iconic Waterlilies canvas, housed in the Portland Museum of Art.
The quaint town of Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island is renowned for its exceptional seafood (you have to try the lobster roll) and, as the crowds lessen and the air turns crisper, it transforms into an autumn wonderland. The town is also the gateway for Acadia National Park. Though it’s among the smallest of national parks by land area, Acadia is also annually in the top ten most visited, especially when the leaves are turning. The best time for peak fall colors is typically the first two to three weeks of October, with displays particularly spectacular along the scenic Park Loop Road, which takes you by many of Acadia’s top sites including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and the iconic Otter Cliffs.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams and is renowned for its early effort to establish religious liberty and democratic principles. It served as a haven for religious dissenters and was officially the first colony to declare independence from Britain in 1776. The smallest US state, it is nicknamed the “Ocean State”, for its a long coastline, and in the fall is blessed with crisp air, the scent of apple cider, and the vibrant hues of changing leaves against a brilliant blue sky.
The historic mansions of Newport are always a draw, with this town being exceptionally pretty in autumn. Founded in the 1600s, Newport eventually became one of the most notable seaports in colonial North America. Enjoy the small-town scenery and farms in Little Compton and waterfronts at Block Island, everywhere you go indulging in fresh seafood, seasonal festivals and bustling farmers’ markets.
Vermont
Vermont offers the quintessential autumn escape, where every turn reveals a postcard-perfect scene. Known as Fall’s Color Capital, the town of Stowe transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, oranges and yellows. Drive through Smugglers Notch, a breathtaking mountain pass for stunning views and for a taste of Vermont’s rich dairy heritage, don’t miss Cabot Creamery, where you can sample some of the finest cheeses and learn about local cheese-making traditions. The charming small town of Montgomery, often called the Covered Bridge Capital of Vermont, is dotted with historic covered bridges, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a nostalgic photo session.
Nature lovers should head to Green Mountain National Forest, a sprawling wilderness offering incredible hiking, leaf-peeping and outdoor activities, and a visit to Equinox Mountain rewards you with panoramic views that stretch for miles, offering a spectacular vantage point of the changing leaves Finally, everyone should discover the Vermont Cheese Trail, an indulgent journey through some of the state’s best cheesemakers. Sample artisanal cheeses, meet passionate local producers, and savor the flavors that make Vermont’s cheese world-famous.
Stowe, Vermont
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is an ideal getaway to connect with the raw beauty of New England in the fall. With a landscape that feels straight out of a dream, it is also renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, typically beginning in mid-September and peaking in the White Mountains around the second week of October. Colors often last on into November.
Drive along the Kancamagus Highway to see the colors everywhere, and a visit to Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast, guarantees breathtaking vistas and an unrivaled sense of achievement. Explore Franconia Notch State Park, a natural marvel carved by glaciers, filled with stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic trails.
The White Mountains and White Mountain National Forest are perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the wild beauty. In the Lakes Region, Lake Winnipesaukee stands as the jewel, its shimmering waters lined with charming towns, boat cruises and lakeside retreats. For a unique adventure, hop aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway for spectacular views and a journey back in time.
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Massachusetts was founded in 1630 and played a pivotal role in American history as home to the Boston Tea Party and the abolitionist movement. One of the most picturesque states, Massachusetts in the fall is a truly enchanting way to experience a slice of US history.
Start your autumn exploration at October Mountain State Forest, where miles of scenic trails wind through colorful woods, then for a touch of whimsical charm, visit Yankee Candle Village in Deerfield, perfect for those who love lovely fragrances, handcrafted gifts, and a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Whale watching along Cape Ann or Cape Cod can be an amazing experience, watching these majestic creatures breaching the waves, and history buffs will appreciate a visit to The Trustees of Reservations, which manage a collection of preserved landscapes, historic sites and gardens.
For art lovers, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston showcases an impressive array of masterpieces from around the world, providing a perfect indoor retreat during cooler fall days. History also comes alive in Salem, renowned for its witch trials of the 1690s. Here you can explore museums, historic sites, and reenactments that tell the gripping story of Salem’s dark past and resilience.
Connecticut
Visiting Connecticut in the fall provides an opportunity to observe some of the most notable autumn foliage on America’s East Coast. Connecticut’s compact size makes it feasible to explore multiple regions within a day, and many towns host fall festivals celebrating harvest season and agricultural fairs, showcasing local produce including pumpkins, apples and cider, and the state’s famous lobster rolls.
The state’s varied landscape includes the Litchfield Hills, the Housatonic River Valley and scenic state parks, all of which offer outstanding views of changing leaves. Areas such as Talcott Mountain State Park and Gillette Castle State Park feature designated hiking trails that take you to panoramic vistas of the fall colors.
To enjoy New England in the Fall, or other superb worldwide destinations, take a look at our collection of premium guided tours.
About Leanne Williams
I'm a writer, editor and interview specialist with a lifetime's love of travel. There’s nothing more inspiring to me than meeting, and writing about, the world's leading destination experts and travel industry insiders. The thing I love most about writing for Insightful is that I'm always learning something new.
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