Experience the Magic of Fall in New England

Fall in New England is the stuff of fairy tales. The sweat of summer is behind you, and the frost of winter is ahead. The transition between the two seasons becomes a vibrant spectacle, with trees changing from emerald green to burnt orange, crimson, amber, and deep purple. It’s a place where holiday cheer is near mandatory from Labor Day through Christmas. By the time fall rolls around, hot apple cider is flowing like a river across the Northeast.

Having grown up in Rhode Island, gone to college in Boston, and learned to ski in Vermont, I am excited to share some expert tips for exploring this glorious region at its best.

What to Know Before You Go to New England in the Fall

New England comprises six states: Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Covering more than 70,000 square miles and home to over 15 million people, there’s a lot to explore. Start your trip planning by deciding whether to explore a specific state or embark on a road trip through multiple New England destinations.

The drive from Hartford, Connecticut, to Augusta, Maine, takes about four hours. However, taking the highway straight through doesn’t allow for the scenic meandering that adds to the experience. Hence, it’s advisable to select a destination, such as Newport, Rhode Island; Salem, Massachusetts; or Stowe, Vermont, or to follow a route that highlights some of the area’s most pristine landscapes, like New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway. Adventurous hikers can explore New England on foot via the Appalachian Trail, which passes through all six states.

It’s also crucial to prepare for the changing weather conditions. Day by day, state by state, temperatures can vary tremendously. Chilly mornings and afternoons can shift to warmer afternoons and cold nights, so packing layers, gloves, and a hat is advisable.

Best Things to Do in New England in the Fall

New England is bursting with activities year-round, yet fall is particularly prime for visiting due to fewer crowds. This semi-shoulder season offers the chance to explore popular spots with reduced foot traffic.

Head to a city like Boston to find fewer crowds at some of its top hotels, like The Newbury, XV Beacon Hotel, and The Langham. While you are there, visit The Freedom Trail to soak in history while exploring a significant part of the city in one trip.

Apple picking is a quintessential New England fall activity. There are numerous orchards across the region, with some of the best located in New Hampshire. Locations like Alyson’s Orchard in Walpole offer expansive grounds for exploration alongside farm animals and game areas, while Riverview Farm in Plainfield provides a similar apple-picking experience complete with a seasonal corn maze.

Fall also presents an excellent opportunity for hiking due to the pleasant weather. The Appalachian Trail can be accessed from numerous entrance points, or consider heading to Acadia National Park in Maine, the only national park in New England. It features more than 150 miles of trails winding through forests, coastlines, and mountains.

Leaf peeping is undoubtedly significant, but we will delve deeper into that topic further along.

Festivals in New England

Fall marks the harvest season in New England, leading to a variety of festivals and fairs. Among these are the New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival in Laconia, Topsfield Fair in Massachusetts, and Deerfield Fair in New Hampshire. Notably, the largest pumpkin in the U.S. was showcased at the Deerfield Fair in 2018.

There are numerous events throughout the region, so it’s likely you’ll discover at least a fair in the state you’re visiting.

New England Fall Foliage

Leaf peeping in New England is a cherished pastime, particularly during late September through early October. This timeframe varies by region; for instance, the foliage in northern Maine transforms more quickly compared to southern Rhode Island. Once you’ve chosen your destination, keep an eye on weekly foliage reports and real-time trackers for updates, or even check social media for insights.

When it comes to locations, a myriad of choices exists. Some favorites include the charming Camden, Maine; bustling Portsmouth, New Hampshire; idyllic Old Lyme, Connecticut; and the beautiful Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, which offers a kaleidoscopic driving experience.

Hotels in New England

New England’s hospitality reflects its charm, with a selection of hotels and bed-and-breakfasts that enhance any travel experience. Below is a small selection of noteworthy accommodations.

Pickering House Inn, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

The Pickering House Inn blends historic charm with modern comforts. Housed in a home built in 1813, it offers guests the warmth typical of a B&B, plus a convenient location near the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and local eateries and shops.

Ocean House, Westerly, Rhode Island

The historic Ocean House is a luxurious retreat, offering fine dining, beachside access, wellness services, and even pet-friendly amenities. Nestled in one of New England’s most picturesque locations, it ensures a royally elegant experience.

The Wauwinet, Nantucket, Massachusetts

For another coastal getaway, consider a stay at The Wauwinet, a Relais & Châteaux property boasting private beach access, tennis courts, fine dining, and complimentary bikes for local exploration.

The Wanderer, Kennebunk, Maine

If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out The Wanderer, where you can stay in your own Instagram-worthy cottage. Each unit is a self-sufficient studio featuring bathroom and wet bar amenities, all with a stylish coastal vibe. Note that The Wanderer operates until the end of October, so plan accordingly.

Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is renowned for its fall and winter activities, particularly for its mountainside accommodations. If you venture just a bit further down the road, the Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the famous family from “The Sound of Music,” invites guests to experience alpine living amid 2,600 acres of breathtaking Vermont landscapes.