best time to visit new england for fall colors

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Fall in new england: when & where to go in 2024.

Time your New England fall getaway with prime leaf peeping.

Fall in New England

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New England is a popular destination for fall vacations , with its crisp, cool weather; the pick-your-own produce and fresh-pressed cider at family-owned farms; some of the country's best harvest festivals ; and – the main attraction – stunning foliage.

Perhaps the only challenge of visiting New England (or any destination known for its fall foliage ) this time of year is figuring out exactly when to go for prime leaf peeping. Visit too soon and the fall colors may not have peaked; visit too late and the trees may be bare. So when (and where) should you go?

The Best Time to Visit New England in the Fall

For peak (or close to peak) fall foliage in 2024, plan to visit New England the first week of October.

"We are looking at a 'normal' slow-burn year, where we should not expect any early peak color," explains Jeff "Foliage" Folger , a New England resident, photographer and former fall foliage blogger for Yankee Magazine. "Meaningful colors should begin to show around Oct. 1 to 3."

He also notes that prime leaf-peeping times vary by location. "Two valleys on different sides of Mount Washington, New Hampshire, can have much different levels of fall colors. It all depends on the temps in those valleys and how much sun they get, etc."

10 Scenic Places to See New England Fall Foliage

Folger, other New England natives and our editorial staff recommend the following New England destinations for a fall visit.

Cabot, Vermont

Yes, this is the town where the famous cheese company got its start, and you can tour the processing plant (for free) before shopping at the Cabot Creamery co-op. You can also explore downtown Cabot, pick your own apples at Burtt's Apple Orchard and, just outside of town, visit the historic AM Foster Covered Bridge.

Montgomery, Vermont

Folger prefers going off the beaten path in Vermont. "A drive on Route 58 in Hazen's Notch near Montgomery means you will almost be alone (usually)," he says. You'll also spot as many as seven covered bridges – the perfect backdrop for fall foliage photos – as Montgomery is considered the "Covered Bridge Capital" of Vermont.

Stowe, Vermont

Before the first snowfall descends upon this famous ski town , Stowe touts another reason to visit: the stunning fall foliage. Nicknamed "Fall's Color Capital," Stowe offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from biking and zip lining amid the changing leaves to strolling through downtown Stowe, a quintessential Vermont experience .

There's no shortage of scenic drives, either. Folger recommends heading north on state Route 108 (also known as the Smugglers' Notch Pass Scenic Highway) toward Smugglers' Notch. For the ultimate experience, book a stay at the dog-friendly Topnotch Resort , located in the foothills of Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont.

Lakes Region of New Hampshire

Courtesy of New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism

"There are many little towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro to visit, shop, and grab a bite to eat," says Folger. "Also on the East side of Lake Winnipesaukee in Moultonborough, you will find the Castle in the Clouds ." For optimal leaf-peeping conditions in the lakes region, he recommends visiting between Oct. 10 and 17.

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

One of the most scenic drives in New England, the Kancamagus Highway bursts with color in the fall. The roughly 35-mile remote route takes travelers through White Mountain National Forest, with views of the White Mountains in the distance and the smell of fresh pine up close.

"The Kanc" is also convenient for another epic experience in New Hampshire : the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Opened in 1869, it is the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway.

The state tourism board recommends starting your journey in Lincoln. Drive along the Kancamagus Highway (state Route 112) to Conway, then take state Route 16 north through North Conway. From there, you'll carry on along U.S. Route 302 through Crawford Notch to the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Then, from the Cog, you can take U.S. Route 3 to Interstate 93 through Franconia Notch State Park back to Lincoln. Or, you might consider spending the night at the famous Omni Mount Washington Resort – the perfect spot for a romantic New Hampshire getaway .

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Camden, Maine

Courtesy of Maine Office of Tourism

While Acadia National Park and the neighboring town of Bar Harbor are undeniably stunning (and particularly popular) in the fall, don't overlook the charming town of Camden, about 80 miles southwest.

One of the best places to visit in Maine , this coastal village offers more than 30 miles of hiking trails – including plenty of easy-to-moderate paths – at Camden Hills State Park. If you're up for a challenge, take the famous Mount Battie Trail, which rewards hikers with stunning views of Penobscot Bay. Afterward, head into town for a bite to eat by the water and some shopping.

Deerfield, Massachusetts

"I love the Pioneer Valley, which follows Route 91 and Route 5 south from Vermont into Massachusetts," says Folger. He recommends Deerfield, in particular. "Historic Deerfield is full of old-period homes and many are open for tours. You can visit the shops and wander the streets. Then you can head over to the Yankee Candle Factory, which as most people know is a feast for your nose." He also recommends exploring state conservation areas like Mount Tom and Sunderland. "You can either drive up or hike up and get great panoramic views."

Lenox, Massachusetts

A stunning rural region in the mountains of western Massachusetts, the Berkshires are known for breathtaking scenery, especially in the fall. Leaf-peeping experiences include hiking, scenic drives, hot air balloon rides and the Hoosac Valley Train Rides in Adams.

Travel editor and New England native Ashley Rossi particularly likes the town of Lenox. "Lenox is home to historic museums, world-class spas, farms, and of course, incredible mountainous landscapes come fall," she says. After you see the foliage up close on foot at October Mountain State Forest, Rossi recommends heading to Edith Wharton's estate (The Mount) or the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum for a history lesson. You can also tour the grounds of Tanglewood (for free), the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. For unique, luxury accommodations, check into the Life House, Berkshires.

Essex, Connecticut

For a later fall getaway (Oct. 15 to Nov. 5), Folger recommends Essex, Connecticut, for a scenic ride along the Essex Steam Train. Downtown Essex is downright adorable in the fall as well.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Courtesy of Visit Rhode Island

Folger also likes Narragansett, where you can visit the Point Judith Lighthouse, enjoy a quiet stroll on one of the local beaches and visit the iconic Narraganssett Brewery, which hosts seasonal events. While you're in the area, you can also visit Newport, Rhode Island , and its historic mansions , about 15 miles away.

For more recommendations, browse the Best Weekend Getaways in New England .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Fall Family Vacation Ideas
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways
• Packing List: Road Trip Essentials
• The Best Winter Vacations

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Tags: Travel , Fall Vacations , Travel Tips , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Best One Week Fall Foliage Itinerary for New England (Plus More Options!)

Here’s my guide to the best one week fall foliage itinerary in New England. New England is a classic American destination, the perfect place for a road trip.

As a born/bred/educated New England girl myself, I think New England is arguably one of the world’s most beautiful places in the fall.

Country roads wind through dense forests, stone walls, covered bridges, and idyllic farm properties.

Orange, red, and gold colors explode, rippling across the mountains. It’s the stuff of dreams.

If you want to escape the crowds and fall back into nature, I recommend adding a New England road trip to your USA bucket list .

Here’s my sample one week fall foliage itinerary, taking in the best fall colors in New England. I also give you plenty of options for extending your New England road trip if you have more vacation time.

In this 7 day New England itinerary, I spill the beans on the must see scenic spots in New England to experience the festival of colors, where to stay and eat, the top hikes, and photography inspiration.

You’ll start in the historic New England city of Boston and then head to the Berkshires, Vermont, and New Hampshire. I think New Hampshire and Vermont are the best place to see fall foliage, though I may be a tad biased.

If you have more than one week for your New England fall road trip, I give you some other options in Connecticut and Rhode Island to extend your time in this rural playground.

You can easily turn a 7 day fall foliage road trip into a 10-14 day itinerary for New England and stay longer in each place.

Overview Of One Week Fall Foliage Itinerary In New England

• Day 1 : Boston MA
• Day 2 : Berkshires MA
• Day 3 : Dixville Notch State Park NH
• Day 4 : Stowe Vermont
• Day 5 : Smugglers Notch NH
• Day 6 : White Moutains NH
• Day 7 : White Mountains NH
• Extra Time? Add Burlington Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island

One Week Fall Foliage Itinerary For New England

Let’s begin the leaf peeping! Here’s where to go for fall foliage with one week in New England.

Day 1: Boston, Massachusetts

Begin your 7 day fall foliage road trip by flying (or driving) into Boston . Beautiful Boston Massachusetts is one of my favorite city in the United States. And fall is the perfect time to visit.

The country’s oldest city, Boston is steeped in American history. Boston played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War.

Boston’s sometimes called the “hub of the world” or the “cradle of liberty.” The city was the source and inspiration for key ideas that shaped America.

READ : 3 Day Itinerary for Boston

Boston has a great foodie scene, wide open green spaces, quaint neighborhoods, and first rate museums. The prettiest neighborhoods, lit in colors in the fall, is Beacon Hill .

And Boston’s got loads of gorgeous fall foliage. To see the colors, head to Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, the Boston Esplanade along the Charles River, Beacon Hill, and Back Bay.

You can book a historic walking tour . The hop on hop off trolley bus takes you to Boston’s top attractions. You can also see check out the colors on a fall foliage lunch cruise .

After touring the city, pick up your rental car. Now, it’s time for some classic new England fall foliage. If you want to skip the big city altogether on this fall foliage trip, just add in one of my bonus destinations instead.

Where To Stay In Boston:

If you opt for downtown, I like the small  XV Beacon  or the  Klimpton Nine Zero Hotel. You could also splurge at the  Ritz Carlton  or the  Four Seasons .

The  Inn at St. Botolph , the  Lenox Hotel , and the  Hilton  in Back Bay are also nice options and central too.

If you can’t resist historic Beacon Hill, check out  The Boxer ,  Liberty , or the elegant  Whitney Hotel .

Where To Eat In Boston:

Barcelona Wine Bar, SVR, Yvonne’s, Beehive, Giacomo’s, Sarma, and o ya

Day 2: The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires are a beautiful rural region of western Massachusetts that’s made up of 30 bucolic villages with some top tier leaf peeping, museums, and restaurants.

It’s a place of fall foliage glory In New England. The Berkshires are full of winding roads with rolling meadows and trees ablaze.

For some of the best fall foliage scenery in the Berkshires, take Route 7 and 8 from Great Barrington to North Adams (1:10 hours without stops).

You’ll go past storybook farms, wooden barns, and stone walls. And through the cute towns of Stockbridge, Lee, Lennox, and Pittsfield.

Stockbridge and Lenox are the two prettiest towns in the Berkshires, and make a great base for exploring. Stockbridge is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum and some of the Berkshires’ beautiful Gilded Age castle-cottages.

Lenox is home to The Mount , Edith Wharton’s home, more iconic properties, and fantastic restaurants.

The quaint town of North Adams is an arty town with an eye catching row of multi-colored Victorians called The Porches. If you’re in the mood for a museum after some leaf peeping, there are couple really good ones.

Try the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum (in nearby Adams) or the spectacular Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art .

The Notch Road leads to Mt. Greylock State Reservation . You can drive up to the summit for Massachusetts’ highest viewing point.

There are plenty of marked hiking trails that start from the parking lot. Click here for the online trail map.

Then descend back down, exit the park, and take Route 7. This will take you to the small town of Lanesborough, where you’ll see pastures and horse farms. You can pick your own apples at Lakeview Orchard .

Near Route 7, you can also visit the home of Edith Wharton in Stockbridge. On your way back to North Adams, you can stop in Cheshire at the Whitney’s Farm Market.

Here’s my complete guide to the Berkshires .

Where To Stay In The Berkshires :

In Lenox, you can check out the intimate Wheatleigh resort fashioned as a Florentine palazzo. The Seven Hills Inn is a historic property on beautifully landscapes grounds with cottages.

In Stockbridge, you can stay at the historic Red Lion Inn or the Inn at Stockbridge , a charming B&B.

Where To Eat in the Berkshires:

Gramercy Bistro, Nuedel, Grazie, Mezze, Bistro Zinc, or The Portico at the Wheatleigh

Day 3: Dixville Notch State Park, New Hampshire

On day 3 of your 7 day fall foliage itinerary, get up early and drive 4.5 hours north to Dixville Notch State Park to venture into New Hampshire. Dixville Notch is a very small area. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in unadulterated beauty.

The main road through Dixville features rolling hills and stunning scenery, including beautiful Lake Gloriette. Once there, hike the famed Table Rock Trail. You’ll need to pull off the shoulder and park on Route 26.

Table Rock Trail is a 1.5 mile out and back trail, with a relatively steep 700 feet climb. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over gorgeous Dixville Notch from above. If you’ve timed it right, you can even enjoy the sunset from your perch.

Another trail leaves from the parking lot of the Whittemore Family Cemetery on Google Maps. The trail winds its way through a vibrant forest, leading to a cute little bridge and stream. When you’re done hiking, head back to the nearby town of Colebrook for dinner and shut eye.

Where to stay : La Maison Bleue du Lac, Mohawk Cottages

Where to eat : Black Bear Tavern, Parsons Street, Wilderness

Day 4: Stowe, Vermont

Wake up early, grab some breakfast at Mostly Muffins in Colebrook. Then drive 2 hours west towards Stowe Vermont.

Along the way, you’ll pass scads of beautiful fall foliage and adorable rural towns, like the memorable Island Pond in Brighton.

Spend the day exploring the charming town. Where mountainous Stowe really shines is its hiking trails, with a range of options to suit every level of experience. Some take you to towering peaks, others end in waterfalls.

For beautiful fall views of Vermont’s Green Mountains, you can ride the ferry across Lake Champlain.

Another option is taking the Gondola Sky Ride at the Stowe Mountain Resort, for more beautiful aerial mountain views.

When you’re done hiking, snack on some apple cider donuts. Stowe also has a romantic and picture perfect downtown.

Its white steepled church is the focal point. Tiny Main Street is filled with boutiques, crafts stores, and antique shops. There are libraries, museums, theaters, and cultural organizations to keep your entertained.

Where To Stay In Stowe:

Stowe has some very nice hotels. The best option is the Topnotch Resort , with pools, a spa, and saunas. The Lodge at Spruce Peak is another good option. It’s at the base of Stowe Mountain and has awe inspiring views of the area’s lakes and peaks.

You can also check out the Trapp Family Lodge , with old world Austrian charm.

Where To Eat In Stowe :

Plate, Cliff House, Bistro at Ten Acres, Green Goddess Cafe

>> Click here to book a brewery tour in Stowe

Day 5: Smuggler’s Notch, Vermont

Day 5 of your one week New England fall foliage itinerary will be a busy one.

Wake up early and head 20+ minutes to the famed Smuggler’s Notch, detouring off Route 100 to Route 108. This magnificent area has a road that goes through a gap between two mountains (termed a “notch”).

Smuggler’s Notch is similar to Dixville Notch. But it’s even more stunning. The mountains on either side are massive.

There are many beautiful twists, hairpin turns, and massive boulders in the road. Unfortunately, there aren’t many places to stop and take photos. But there are two parking lots, at the Welcome Center and upper end of the notch.

From Smuggler’s Notch, drive south to Pomfret, Vermont. Take Cloudland Road south from Pomfret to Woodstock. You’ll drive along cute dirt roads lined with fall colors, rolling hills, and quaint farms.

If you’re hungry, stop in Woodstock for lunch at Mangalitsa or the Prince and the Pauper Restaurant.

Stop for a photography break at Sleepy Hollow Farm in Woodstock Vermont. It’s a great little stop that captures one of New England’s most photogenic farm properties now Instagram famous.

Sugarbush Farm is another local farm property that you can visit. Their maple syrup is famous.

Now, it’s time to head back to New Hampshire. At the base of the White Mountains, the town of Lincoln makes a good base for touring this area.

Then you don’t have to move every night. Lincoln is a creative foodie town, so plan on some fine dining there after your days of hiking and leaf peeping.

Where To Stay Near Lincoln: Omni Mt. Washington , Sugar Hill Inn , Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain , Red Sleigh Inn B&B

Where to eat : The Common Man, Gypsy Cafe, La Vista Italian Cuisine

Day 6: White Mountains, New Hamsphire

On day 6 of your one weeks fall foliage tour of New England, you’ll drive the sinuous Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains.

It’s one of the most beautiful fall foliage drives in New Hampshire . You can drive the road with this self guided audio tour .

Be prepared to pump the brakes frequently. You’ll be dazzled by the incredibly epic roadside views on this 34 mile stretch of highway.

There a few places to pull over, providing great photo opportunities. Continue east until you hit the Rocky Gorge Parking Lot. Here, you can take a walk along the Swift River and get views of the beautiful Falls Pond.

From Rocky Gorge, backtrack a short distance to drive up Bear Notch Road. Bear Notch features a scenic drive along a mountainside and more roadside pullouts for gorgeous photo opportunities.

At the end of Bear Notch Road, drive north to Crawford Notch State Park .

Here, you can explore the backroads and revel in the beautiful fall colors. If you’d like to do some hiking, there are 35 hiking trails of varying difficulty.

The best hike in this area is the Mount Willard Trail . It’s a relatively steep, but short, 3.2 mile out and back hike to a clifftop vista overlooking Crawford Notch. The views are surreal.

Next, continue driving north where you can detour to the Mt Washington Cog Railway . Here, you can ride a historic train to the summit of Mt. Washington.

The mountain is the tallest one in the northeastern United States at 6,289 feet. At night, head back to your base in Lincoln.

Day 7: White Mountains | Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

On day 7 of your New England fall foliage itinerary, you’ll head to Franconia Notch State Park. The park is a lovely spot nestled in the White Mountains, just 7 minutes from Lincoln.

Start your day with a sunrise hike up to Artist’s Bluff . This is a short 1.4 mile long loop trail up to a hilltop overlooking Echo Lake. The fall foliage here is simply breathtaking.

Continue on to Flume Gorge . This is one of the best stops on a New England road trip. The natural chasm stretches 800 feet along the base of Mt. Liberty.

A boardwalk provides a relatively easy 2 mile loop hike. Waterfalls, streams, and covered bridges keep the eyes riveted the entire way.

You can also be whisked away on the 80 person Canon Mountain Aerial Tramway , which takes you to the top of majestic Cannon Mountain for an “oh wow” view. Cannon Cliff is the northeast’s largest vertical rock face. Trails meander on the mountain.

You can also hike the Falling Waters Trail to beautiful waterfalls. Or bike or hike the 8.7 mile Franconia Notch Recreation Path.

The paved trail offer spectacular views of the White Mountains and access to Echo Lake. More adventurous travelers should pull in at Loon Mountain and zipline 700 feet across the Pemigewasset River.

Where to eat : Polly’s Pancake Parlor, Lovette’s Inn & Restaurant

Extra Time On Your One Week New England Road Trip?

It may be time to head back to Boston or home after your one week New England fall foliage road trip.

But if you have extra time on your hands, there are several places you can easily add to create a longer New England fall foliage itinerary.

1. Burlington Vermont

While you’re in Vermont, after Stowe, add a day in the lovely town of Burlington. As the largest town in a state of small hamlets, Burlington has developed a wonderful art scene.

To some, Burlington is akin to a mini Seattle — a politically and socially progressive enclave of college students, regional power brokers, and creative minds.

The city’s popular waterfront bike path includes miles of paths, many along Lake Champlain. Stop at Ethan Allen Park, with a 40 foot tower providing mountain views.

If you’re a foodie, Burlington will suit. It outshines much of the US with a bounty of locally grown food. Farm to table eating is a well established tradition. There’s even excellent street food at Farmers and Foragers Food Truck.

Where to stay : Willard Street Inn, Made INN Vermont

Where to eat : Bleu Northeast Seafood, Hen of the Wood, Juniper

2. Connecticut

If you want to venture south of Boston, Rhode Island and Connecticut also offer excellent fall foliage drives, with rolling foothills ablaze in color.

The best fall drive in Connecticut is the tree-lined State Route 169. This two lane scenic road connects picture perfect towns in a still rural corner of the state, often called New England’s “Last Green Valley.”

Along this relaxing and uncrowded drive, you’ll pass classic churches, orchards, stone walls, and 19th century homes. The pink neo-Gothic  Roseland Cottage operates as a museum.

It’s open for tours June through mid-October. For a break, stop at Mrs. Bridge’s Pantry for some tea and scones.

Another popular fall drive in Connecticut is from Milford to Litchfield. Along the way, you can stop at Hunt Hill Farm, with a gallery, shop, and cafe.

Continue to New Preston, where can you do some antique shopping at Dawn Hill Antiques . Then take the 8 mile drive around Lake Waramaug. In fall, it’s encircled with red maples, rusty oaks, and yellow birches.

Where to stay : Winvian, Grace Mayflower Inn & Spa, Inn at Stonington

Where to eat : Arethusa Farm, Schoolhouse at Cannondale

3. Rhode Island

The state of Rhode Island is the home of the red maple, which turns a glorious gold, purple, and scarlet come fall.

Start your tour of tiny Rhode Island in the amazing town of Providence. Providence combines big city sophistication with small town charm, vibrant culture with hot restaurants. Here’s may one day itinerary for Providence .

For leaf peeping in Providence, the tree lined vista from Prospect Terrace is stunning. There are beautiful trees along the downtown River Walk and on historic Benefit Street.

Drive north from Providence to the Diamond Hill Vineyards, which specializes in pinot noir. Then drive west to the village of Chepachet, where you’ll find Victorian homes and antique shops. A classic stop is at Brown & Hopkins Country Store .

Then hit the road and drive another 40 miles to Exeter. It’s lined with pristine hardwood forests with an abundance of red maple, white oak, elm, and poplar trees.

If time allows, you can continue on to the Colonial seaport town of Wickford, opening to Narragansett Bay.

Where to stay : Renaissance Providence , Graduate Providence

Where to eat : Gracie’s, Al Forno, Bacaro, Birch, Chez Pascal

When Is The Best Time To Take Fall Foliage Road Trip In New England?

The best time to see New England fall foliage is typically from mid September to late October. Even until early November in some places.

But it varies somewhat by state, fall coming earlier the further north you go. Some states have foliage trackers you can check to determine when peak fall foliage occurs: New Hampshire , Vermont , Massachusetts , and Connecticut .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week fall foliage itinerary in New England. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 25 Prettiest Towns in New England
• Must See Places in the Berkshires MA
• 1 Week Road Trip for Vermont
• 10 Day Road Trip in Coastal Maine
• Flexible 10-14 Day Itinerary for Southwest US
• 10 Day Southern California Itinerary
• 21 Less Touristy Towns on the East Coast
• Best Art Towns on the East Coast
• Best Art Towns in California
• Famous Landmarks in Boston

If you’d like to take a fall foliage road trip in New England, pin it for later.

10 thoughts on “The Best One Week Fall Foliage Itinerary for New England (Plus More Options!)”

I like the sound and feel of your one week foliage road trip. When would you recommend doing that trip in the fall?

Thanks Eddie! Generally, mid September to late October is the best time.

Hi Leslie, do you do custom trip itineraries? We would like to fly into Maine and make a triangle Fall tour of Maine, NH and Vermont.

Thanks for your reply!

Hi Steve, I just don’t have time at the moment. I’m about to leave the country for travel again. But there is nothing better than fall in New England!

Thank you so much for this wonderful itinerary. It’s my first trip to the New England states. I am mapping things out now. Question: if I am driving to my final destination of Toronto, Canada, should I drive in the reverse order and go from Boston to the White Mountains to Stowe to Dixvill Notch, etc….?

Yes, that makes sense to me. Enjoy your trip!

Hi. Thanks for your lovely articles and suggestions. We are going on a NE Cruise in September and have available 5 extra days after the cruise in the NE area, we will be driving from Boston. We do not want to move around every night, and after reading your article I am thinking of just going to the Berkshires (maybe Lenox) and Stowe, then touring around those areas in the time we have. My question is where would you spend more time, Berkshires or Stowe? We will do 2 nights at one, and 3 nights at the other.

Definitely the Berkshires. I have a whole article on what to do in the Berkshires, if you use the search bar. I think Stowe is a one day visit unless you’re skiing.

This is awesome information. Thanks for putting this all together. Where would you suggest to stay on Day 6 & 7 ? There are no suggested places to stay in the article. Thanks so much !

There are lots of places to stay in the White Mountains. I should probably update the article. The nicest place is the Omni Mount Washington. You can also check out the Mountain View Grand resort and the White Mountain Hotel and Resort. Or opt for booking an Air Bnb.

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Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

15 Incredible Spots to See Fall Foliage Across New England

Consider this your guide to every leaf peeping hotspot in the northeast.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

That sweet spot between the dizzy dog days of summer and the looming chill of winter, fall is a time to be cherished–a time where coziness is of the utmost importance, and change is in the air. One of the most wonderful marks of autumn is the sight of leaves turning from summery green to a riot of orange, red, and gold. This season, take the time to appreciate the brilliant fall foliage by “leaf-peeping,” (and maybe by munching on freshly baked apple cider donuts—is there anything better?).

Here are 15 scenic routes to drive, hike, and experience across New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway

This scenic, tree-lined drive spans 34.5-miles and allows travelers to tour some of the most picturesque spots the region has to offer. Beginning in Lincoln and ascending through the White Mountain National Forest, there’s no shortage of stunning overlooks and stops along “the Kanc,” so be prepared to put it in park. Be sure to stop at the C.L. Graham Overlook just below the summit of Kancamagus Pass, then picnic at Sabbaday Falls in Conway, a half-mile walk from the trail head, before heading north to Bretton Woods on 302. There, you’ll be treated to blazing views of Mount Washington.

Stay: South Mountain Resort in Lincoln READ REVIEWS Stay: River Walk Resort at Loon Mountain in Lincoln READ REVIEWS Stay: Omni Mount Washington in Bretton Woods READ REVIEWS

Lake Winnipesaukee Loop in New Hampshire

Road trip around New Hampshire’s biggest lake (we're talking 97 miles of premium New England sights) and take in the waterfront views and bright autumn foliage. Stop for lunch and a stroll in any one of the quaint towns along the route, like Meredith, or even stop for some outdoor activities (think: boating, fishing, and hiking).

Stay: Center Harbor Inn in Center Harbor READ REVIEWS Stay: The Wolfeboro Inn in Wolfeboro READ REVIEWS

Vermont’s Route 100

Vermont in the fall is like something straight out of a picture book. The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessential villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores your heart desires. Hike to the top of Mount Killington for some seriously impressive views before continuing to the 11-mile Green Mountain Byway. Spend a weekend in Stowe or Mad River Valley and indulge in farm-to-table dining, craft beer, and maybe even a trip through those beautiful autumn trees on a zipline tour at Arbortrek Canopy Adventures or the Stow Mountain Resort (home to the second longest zipline tour in the US)

Stay: Field Guide Lodge in Stowe READ REVIEWS Stay: The Inn at Round Barn in Waitsfield READ REVIEWS

The Shires of Vermont Byway

This historic route 7A runs through the southwest corner of the state, known as the Shires of Vermont. It's home to seventeen charming towns that line the route, including Bennington and Manchester. In Bennington, climb to the top of the 306-foot-tall monument built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington ; it offers an unparalleled bird's eye view of the surroundings.

Stay: Four Chimneys Inn in Bennington READ REVIEWS Stay: The Kimpton Taconic Hotel in Manchester READ REVIEWS

Montgomery, Vermont

Some of the northeast’s prettiest foliage views can be found in this tiny town in northern Vermont. Montgomery also happens to be "Vermont's Covered Bridge Capital," so you can supplement your foliage pics with some bridge content for the Instagram feed. There are six of these covered bridges in the town, and each one is just waiting for you to take a leisurely stroll across it, warm beverage in hand. After touring the bridges, consider hiking through the 15 miles of trails preserved by the Hazen's Notch Association . Maybe not all 15 miles…

Stay: The Inn in Montgomery READ REVIEWS

Woodstock, Vermont

Sure, "fall foliage" isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think "Woodstock." That’s understandable. But this is a different Woodstock in different state. This Woodstock is actually one of the best destinations to see foliage and has been called the "quintessential New England village." Expect classic American charm; colorful, lush foliage; and a quaint town bustling with shops and restaurants. Go for a hike through the woodlands of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to take in the foliage firsthand. Then, after working up an appetite, sample fresh local cheese from the Billings Farm & Museum.

Stay: Twin Farms in Barnard READ REVIEWS

Stay: The Woodstock Inn & Resort READ REVIEWS

Maine’s Coastal Route 1

Start in Portland and head north on “Old Route 1” for one of New England’s most scenic coastal drives. Stop along the way in Brunswick, Bath, or Rockport (you can’t go wrong with any) for seaside mansions, lighthouses, and late-season lobster rolls. Need new boots or to stock up on flannel for the season? Hit up Freeport for the L.L. Bean flagship store. End your trip in the quaint town of Camden, where you can capitalize on prime leaf-peeping spots like Merryspring , a 66-acre park and nature center.

Stay: Portland Harbor Hotel in Portland READ REVIEWS

Stay: Whitehall in Camden READ REVIEWS

Maine's Acadia National Park

Northeast of Camden, the 47,000-acre Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island is a nature lover's paradise and truly the epitome of foliage destinations. Its 27-mile Park Loop Road is filled with spots to observe and photograph the foliage. Take in the sweeping views from Cadillac Mountain. Stay in a nearby town (charming all on their own) and get day passes into the park or gear up and plan to camp inside the park. Mid-October is the best time to leaf-peep, but the surroundings are beautiful year-round.

Stay: The Bayview Hotel in Bar Harbor READ REVIEWS Stay: Balance Rock Inn in Bar Harbor READ REVIEWS

Bethel, Maine

In this mountain village, the best way to see the changing leaves is on foot. Bethel offers hiking access to multiple well-known trails situated in some standout conservation lands, including the White Mountain National Forest, Grafton Notch State Park, and the Appalachian Trail. Be sure to check out the Androscoggin River Recreation Trail, home to some unique wildlife and gorgeous foliage.

Stay: Sunday River READ REVIEWS Stay: The Bethel Inn and Resort READ REVIEWS

Connecticut’s Route 7

Northwestern Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills region is filled with village greens, rolling hills, and Housatonic river views. Begin in the coastal town of Norwalk, trail through Kent Falls State Park (there are waterfalls!), and pass through Woodbury, the “antiques capital of Connecticut.” End in Litchfield Hills for a classic New England aesthetic explorable on foot, horseback–or hot air balloon . While you're in the area, treat yourself to a lavish meal at what OpenTable named one of the best restaurants in America: Arethusa al tavolo in Bantam.

Stay: Mayflower Inn & Spa , Auberge Resorts Collection in Washington READ REVIEWS

Connecticut's Route 9

The Lower Connecticut River Valley has more than enough activities to keep anyone busy in the charming region. Essex, for example, was named "The Perfect Small American Town" in 1,000 Places to See Before You Die . Located just across the Connecticut River, the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme is a boarding house-turned-museum where American Impressionist painters like Childe Hassam, Willard Metcalf, and Henry Ward Ranger once lived and worked. Today it's a National Historic Landmark with a separate 9,500-square-foot gallery building.

Stay: Boardman House in East Haddam READ REVIEWS Stay: The Griswold Inn in Essex READ REVIEWS

Massachusetts’s Mohawk Trail

The 63-mile-long Mohawk Trail follows what was once a Native American trade route. Located in northwest Massachusetts, it straddles the Berkshire Mountains between the Hudson and Connecticut River valleys. There are mountain streams and plenty of pit stops along the way, like the Golden Eagle restaurant on the trail’s famous Hairpin Turn (the view is unbeatable). End in North Adams and visit MassMoCA, the Massachusetts Musuem of Contemporary Art—one of the biggest museums in the country.

Stay: Porches READ REVIEWS Stay: Blantyre READ REVIEWS

Massachusetts’s Route 6A

Luckily, the beauty and charm of Cape Cod villages persevere passed the summer, making the postcard-perfect towns along route 6A a fantastic fall destination. Start just after the Sagamore Bridge and follow the road through scenic Sandwich, the Cape’s oldest town. From there, roll on to Yarmouth Port, through Dennis and finally Brewster. There, find Nickerson State Park , where the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail offers no shortage of views to be seen on foot. Peak season hits late here, so it’s perfect if you find yourself looking for leaves come mid-October or even later.

Stay: Sandwich Inn & Suites in Sandwich READ REVIEWS Stay: Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Brewster READ REVIEWS

Boston, Massachusetts

If small towns or rural hikes aren’t your cup of tea, Boston offers easily accessible views from the bustling historic city. Stroll through the trees in Boston Common and the Public Garden . Walk or bike along the Charles River Esplanade . And head to the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard, an outdoor museum of trees and the oldest public arboretum in North America. Rent a car and drive to Walden Pond , where you'll see Henry David Thoreau's (surprisingly tiny) cabin, along with beautiful fall foliage reflected in the pond. After you’ve gotten your share of sights, explore the city’s incredible cultural scene, dining and shopping options. You won’t be disappointed.

Stay: The Four Seasons Boston READ REVIEWS Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Boston READ REVIEWS

Rhode Island’s Ocean Drive

It may be the smallest state in the country, but every square mile of Rhode Island offers a beautiful sight to take in. Ideally, enjoy Ocean Drive by bike. Start out on the Bellevue Avenue side of the Ocean Drive Loop , an 11-mile waterfront route passing through the colorful American yellowwoods, European beeches, and stately mansions of Bellevue before opening onto Ocean Drive. Its offers dual views of the Rhode Island Sound on your left and jaw-dropping colors on your right. End at the equally scenic Newport Harbor, where you might pull up to Belle’s Café in the Shipyard for coffee and yacht views.

Stay: Gilded in Newport READ REVIEWS Stay: Ocean House in Watch Hill READ REVIEWS Stay: Gurney’s Newport READ REVIEWS

Meg (she/her) is the associate fashion commerce editor at ELLE.com , where she specializes in shopping stories spanning the fashion, home, and lifestyle categories. Over the past three years, she has devoted countless hours to researching brands, testing hundreds (maybe even thousands!) of products, and deep-diving into market and consumer trends. Her favorite job responsibilities consist of co-writing the monthly series Same Same But Different and curating the fashion market for ELLE Escapes . Meg graduated magna cum laude from the Missouri School of Journalism with an emphasis on magazine editing. In 2020, one of her feature stories in the service article category was recognized by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. The year prior, the Society of Professional Journalists named voxmagazine.com “Best Affiliated Magazine” in its Mark of Excellence Awards, when she was on staff. Meg’s stories have appeared on Cosmopolitan, Town & Country, Harper’s Bazaar , and Good Housekeeping , among many other outlets. Her personal passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and gardening. You can find her in New York, where she lives, or on Instagram , where she also lives. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour. 

Sam Dangremond is a Contributing Digital Editor at Town & Country, where he covers men's style, cocktails, travel, and the social scene.

Maggie Maloney is the Site Director of Oprah Daily. She previously worked at Town & Country, Elle DECOR, and Marie Claire.

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The perfect New England fall-foliage road trip for 2023

Oct 2, 2023 • 8 min read

On this 424-mile drive through New England, the foliage will dazzle © Chun Chen / 500px / Getty Images

Touring New England in search of autumn’s changing colors has become so popular it has grenerated its own subculture of “leaf-peepers.”

While admiring the leaves during foliage season is possible everywhere in the the region, here’s one road trip that will immerse you in the best of those glorious colors.

New England’s best fall-foliage road trip

Trip length : 5– 7 days; 424 miles (682km) Best time to go : Late September to mid-October Essential photo : Kent Falls set against a backdrop of autumnal colors Top experience : Zip-lining through the tree canopy in Bretton Woods

Scarlet and sugar maples, ashes, birches, beeches, dogwoods, tulip trees, oaks and sassafras all contribute to the carnival of autumn color in New England. But this trip is about much more than just flora and fauna: expect to embrace the harvest spirit makes at family outings at pick-your-own farms, leisurely walks along dappled trails and tables groaning beneath delicious seasonal produce.

1. Lake Candlewood, Connecticut 

With a surface area of 8.4 sq miles, Candlewood is the largest lake in  Connecticut . On its western shore,  Squantz Pond State Park is popular with leaf-peepers who come to amble along the pretty shoreline. In Brookfield and Sherman, quiet vineyards with acres of gnarled grapevines line the hillsides; at  White Silo Farm Winery , the focus is on specialty wines made from farm-grown fruit. For the ultimate bird’s-eye view of the foliage, consider a late afternoon hot-air balloon ride with GONE Ballooning  in nearby Southbury.

The drive: From Danbury at the southern tip of the lake, you have a choice of heading north via US 7, taking in Brookfield and New Milford (or trailing the scenic eastern shoreline along Candlewood Lake Rd S); or heading north along CT 37 and CT 39 via New Fairfield, Squantz Pond and Sherman, before reconnecting with US 7 to Kent.

2. Kent,  Connecticut

Picturesque Kent ranks among the top spots for fall foliage in all of New England. Situated in the Litchfield Hills on the banks of the Housatonic River, the village is surrounded by dense woodlands. For a sweeping view, hike up Cobble Mountain in Macedonia Brook State Park , a wooded oasis two miles north of town. The steep climb to the rocky ridge affords panoramic views of the foliage against a backdrop of the Taconic and Catskill mountain ranges.

The 2175-mile (3500km) Georgia-to-Maine  Appalachian National Scenic Trail  also runs through Kent and up to Salisbury, on the Massachusetts  border. Unlike much of the trail, the Kent section offers a mostly flat five-mile walk alongside the Housatonic, the longest river walk of the entire trail. The trailhead is accessed on River Rd, off CT 341.

The drive:  The 15-mile drive from Kent to Housatonic Meadows State Park along US 7 is one of the most scenic drives in Connecticut. The single-lane road dips and weaves between thick forests, past Kent Falls State Park  (with its tumbling waterfall, visible from the road) and over West Cornwall’s picturesque covered bridge, which spans the Housatonic.

3. Housatonic Meadows State Park, Connecticut

During the spring thaw, the churning waters of the Housatonic challenge kayakers and canoers. By summer, the scenic waterway transforms into a lazy, flat river perfect for fly-fishing. In the Housatonic Meadows State Park, campers vie for a spot on the banks of the river while hikers take to the hills on the Appalachian Trail. Housatonic River Outfitters runs guided fishing trips with gourmet picnics.

Popular with artists and photographers, one of the most photographed fall spots is the Cornwall Bridge (West Cornwall), an antique span that stretches across the broad river, framed by vibrantly colored foliage.

The drive:  Continue north along US 7 toward the Massachusetts border and Great Barrington. After a few miles, you’ll leave the forested slopes of the park behind you and enter expansive rolling countryside dotted with large red-and-white barns. Look out for hand-painted signs advertising farm produce – and consider stopping overnight in Falls Village, which has an excellent B&B.

4. The Berkshires,  Massachusetts

Blanketing the westernmost part of Massachusetts, the rounded mountains of the Berkshires turn crimson and gold as early as mid-September. The effective capital of the Berkshires is Great Barrington, a formerly industrial town whose streets are now lined with art galleries and upscale restaurants.

It’s the perfect place to pack your picnic or rest your legs before or after a hike in the nearby Beartown State Forest . Crisscrossing its 12,000 acres, hiking trails yield spectacular views of wooded hillsides and pretty Benedict Pond. Further north, October Mountain State Forest is the state’s largest tract of green space (16,127 acres), also with ample hiking trails. The name – attributed to Herman Melville – gives a good indication of when this park is at its loveliest, with its multicolored tapestry of hemlocks, birches and oaks.

The drive:  Drive north on US 7, the spine of the Berkshires, cruising through Great Barrington and Stockbridge. In Lee, the highway merges with scenic US 20, from where you can access October Mtn. Continue 16 miles north through Lenox and Pittsfield to Lanesborough. Turn right on N Main St and follow the signs to the park entrance.

5. Mt Greylock State Forest,  Massachusetts

Massachusetts’ highest peak is not so high (only 3491ft / 1064m) – yet a climb up the 92ft-high War Veterans Memorial Tower rewards you with a forested panorama stretching up to 100 miles across the Taconic, Housatonic and Catskill ranges and over five states. Even if the weather seems drab, driving up to the summit may well lift you above the gray blanket, and the view with a layer of cloud floating between tree line and sky is simply magical.

Mt Greylock State Reservation has some 45 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Frequent trail pull-offs on the road up – including some that lead to waterfalls – make it easy to get at least a little hiking in before reaching the summit.

The drive:  Return to US 7 and continue north through the quintessential college town of Williamstown. Cross the Vermont border and continue north through the historic village of Bennington. Just north of Bennington, turn left on Rte 7A and continue north to Manchester.

6. Manchester, Vermont

Stylish Manchester is known for its charming architecture. For fall-foliage views, head south of the center to 3828ft-high  Mt Equinox , the highest mountain accessible by car in the Taconic Range. Wind up the 5.2 miles – with gasp-inducing scenery at every hairpin turn – seemingly to the top of the world, where the 360-degree panorama unfolds, offering views of the Adirondacks , the lush Battenkill Valley and even Montréal ’s Mt Royal . 

If early snow makes Mt Equinox inaccessible, visit 412-acre Hildene , a Georgian Revival mansion once home to the Lincoln family. It’s filled with presidential memorabilia and sits nestled at the edge of the Green Mountains, with access to eight miles of wooded walking trails.

The drive:  Take US 7 north to Burlington. Three miles past Middlebury in New Haven, stop off at Lincoln Peak Vineyard for wine tasting or a picnic lunch on the wraparound porch.

7. Lake Champlain, Vermont

With a surface area of 490 sq miles and straddling  New York , Vermont and  Québec , Lake Champlain is the largest freshwater lake in the US after the  Great Lakes . On its northeastern side, Burlington is a gorgeous base from which enjoy the lake. Explore the lively city by foot, then scoot down to the wooden waterfront promenade, take a swing on the four-person rocking benches and consider a bike ride along the 7.5-mile lakeside path.

For the best off-shore foliage views, we love the  Friend Ship sailboat at  Whistling Man Schooner Company , a 43ft-sloop that accommodates a mere 13 passengers. Next door, ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center explores the history and ecosystem of the lake, including a famous snapshot of Champ, Lake Champlain’s mythical sea creature.

The drive:  Take I-89 southeast to Montpelier, passing  Camels Hump State Park and  CC Putnam State Forest . At Montpelier, pick up US 2 heading east to St Johnsbury, where you can hop on I-91 south to I-93 south. Just after Littleton, take US 302 east to Bretton Woods.

8. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Unbuckle your seat belts and step away from the car. You’re not just peeping at leaves today: you’ll be swooping past them on zip lines that drop 1000ft at 30mph. The four-season Bretton Woods Canopy Tour includes a hike through the woods, a stroll over sky bridges and a swoosh down 10 cables to tree platforms.

If this leaves you craving even higher views, cross US 302 and drive six miles on Base Rd to the coal-burning, steam-powered Mount Washington Cog Railway  at the western base of Mt Washington , the highest peak in New England. This historic railway has been hauling sightseers to the mountain’s 6288ft (1916m) summit since 1869.

The drive:  Continue driving east on US 302, a route that parallels the Saco River and the Conway Scenic Railroad, traversing Crawford Notch State Park . At the junction of NH 16 and US 302, continue east on US 302 into North Conway.

9. North Conway, New Hampshire

Many of the best restaurants, pubs and inns in North Conway come with expansive views of the nearby mountains, making it an ideal place to wrap up a fall-foliage road trip. If you’re traveling with kids or skipped the cog railway ride up Mt Washington, consider an excursion on the antique Valley Train with the Conway Scenic Railroad , a short but sweet round-trip ride through the Mt Washington Valley from North Conway to Conway, 11 miles south. The Moat Mountains and the Saco River will be your scenic backdrop. First-class seats are usually in a restored Pullman observation car.

This article was first published Sep 3, 2019 and updated Oct 2, 2023.

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10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in New England

Here’s where to savor the season.

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

As a kid, I measured my summers in corn. Each year, at the beginning of June, my friends and I would ride our bikes to the neighborhood farm in my small New England hometown and watch the tractor methodically place the seedlings into the ground. By July, those seedlings would be hip-high, and by late August, they'd tower over us. That's how we knew it was once again time for school. The thought of heading back to geometry class wasn't exactly exciting, but there was one natural phenomenon worth looking forward to: the leaves changing color.

By October, the trees in my backyard in Rhode Island were a picturesque mix of burnt orange, red, brown, magenta, and yellow. And while the years have gone by, those trees still turn the same hues each fall. I never knew how lucky I was to have this view until I realized millions of people flock to New England just to see the fall foliage every year. With a bit of planning and some good luck with the weather, you can experience it, too.

Here are the best New England fall foliage destinations to visit.

Camden, Maine

This former mill town hugging Penobscot Bay is one of Maine's best spots for fall foliage . Leaf peepers will see some of the most vibrant color in Camden Hills State Park , home of Mount Battie. The half-mile hike up to the summit is beautiful on its own, but the views get even better at the top. On the peak, a 26-foot-tall stone World War I memorial completes the picure-perfect scene. While in Camden, stay at the charming Hartstone Inn and Hideaway , a bed-and-breakfast in the heart of town.

Stowe, Vermont

Come fall, the Green Mountain State goes from verdant to variegated. Located at the base of Vermont's highest peak, Mount Mansfield, the town of Stowe prides itself on being the state's "color capital." Leaf peepers can hike, mountain bike, or ride horseback through the polychromatic forest and stay at the Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa , which offers special fall tours by car, boat, or zip line. The best time to see foliage in Stowe is usually during the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. Come November, the town turns into a skier and snowboarder's paradise.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

This coastal New Hampshire city has a downtown so charming that it could easily double as a Norman Rockwell painting. Visit in late October and take a stroll around Market Square as the trees that line the streets change color. Or leaf peep from the Great Bay or the Cocheco River on an inland excursion from Portsmouth Harbor Cruises . Book a night at The Hotel Portsmouth , where New England's old-world style meets modern amenities.

Mohawk Trail Region, Massachusetts

Most of Massachusetts abounds with stunning foliage each fall, but the Mohawk Trail Region may have the best in the state. You can explore it by car along the namesake scenic byway , but for an up-close view of the changing leaves, take a hike through the forest along the Mohican-Mohawk Trail . There are dozens of attractions — from zip lines to museums to historic covered bridges — to take in along the way.

Stop off in picture-postcard Shelburne Falls for a stroll across the Bridge of Flowers , an old trolley viaduct repurposed into a vibrant botanical garden that spans the Deerfield River. Book a stay at the Cavalier Cottage , a pet-friendly bed-and-breakfast, for the ultimate New England getaway.

Newport, Rhode Island

There's no wrong time to visit Newport, but perhaps the best time is when the leaves change. Come at the end of October to see the iconic Newport Mansions cloaked in color. Ride along Ocean Drive, a glorious coastal stretch that will leave you in awe. Sightseeing this time of year is best done at dawn or dusk to avoid large crowds of leaf peepers. Stay at the Chanler at Cliff Walk, a meticulously restored 19 th -century mansion with commanding views of the Atlantic and a perfect location from which to explore.

White Mountains Region, New Hampshire

For a relaxing drive through a kaleidoscope of autumnal color, make your way to Lincoln, New Hampshire in early October. From there, the 35-mile Kancamagus Highway snakes through White Mountain National Forest before ending in Conway, near the Maine border. Take in the amazing view at Hancock Overlook, then stop off at Sabbaday Falls for a brisk hike down and up the scenic stairway.

A drive this idyllic calls for equally idyllic accommodations. Check in at the Kancamagus Swift River Inn , which offers easy access to hiking trails so you can enjoy the views at your leisure.

Old Lyme, Connecticut

In summer, this coastal town is a trendy vacation spot. Come late October, it’s a top spot for foliage. One of the best ways to view it is from the water. Rent a kayak from Black Hall Outfitters and explore the Great Island Wildlife Management Area or the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail for foliage and potential bald eagle sightings. Stay the night at the nearby Copper Beech Inn , home to a restaurant serving delicious modern American fare.

Montgomery, Vermont

Make your way to this tiny town — the "Covered Bridge Capital of Vermont" — to admire and photograph its six most famous landmarks against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage. Peak foliage occurs here in late September, so plan a fall getaway to Montgomery early in the season. If you want to stay in a boutique hotel resembling a quintessential Vermont mountain chalet, opt for The Inn .

Acadia National Park, Maine

Famed for its cliffside panoramas of the Atlantic and for its first-in-the-nation sunrises, Acadia also has some of the best fall foliage in Maine. Here, the fall colors generally peak around mid-October. Go for a hike up Cadillac Mountain to see a sprawling autumnal scene, or seize the opportunity to camp in the park before its campgrounds close for the winter. For a little more luxury, though, there's The Claremont Hotel . Its spa is the perfect place to rest and recover after a day on foot or on a bike.

Boston, Massachusetts

Not all fall foliage destinations need to be rural. Leaf peepers can also head to the Hub to see the leaves change on Boston Common, in the Back Bay Fens, and in tree-lined neighborhoods like the South End and Beacon Hill. Foliage around the city gets more colorful throughout the month of October, with its most vivid hues appearing around Halloween.

One benefit of a leaf-peeping trip to the city is that you're spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston often offers fall foliage packages to help guests make the most of their stays.

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The Perfect 7 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary (+Scenic Drives!)🍁2024

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A New England fall road trip is the best way to experience the magical season of fall. The fall foliage in the region is some of the best on earth, and everyone should see fall in New England at least once in their life. In my opinion, a New England fall road trip is a true bucket list item .

Besides the picture-perfect autumn leaves in every direction, the orchards, fairs, and fall events create a cozy and memorable atmosphere you just won’t find elsewhere.

I’ve spent dozens of fall seasons in New England, both living and visiting, and if you’re looking for the ultimate New England fall road trip itinerary, I can help! I’d love to share with you my favorite spots where you’ll see incredible views, find the most colorful of leaves, and feel entirely like you’ve stepped into an autumn storybook.

PS: Don’t feel like planning your own road trip through New England? Consider joining one of these guided New England fall foliage tours which will do all the heavy lifting for you.

Table of Contents

Where Should You Go on a New England Fall Road Trip?

I want to start by saying that this itinerary is not comprehensive for all six New England states. 

If you want to see ALL of New England, you’ll need more time than what I’ve included here.

For a comprehensive regional journey, I suggest checking out my complete New England Road Trip Itinerary . This flexible road trip is designed for any time of year, not just to highlight the fall foliage, and includes every single state in New England.

In this post, I’ve included options for a 10, 7, and 5 day New England fall road trip. The itineraries I’ve put together focus largely on Vermont and New Hampshire . Both Vermont and New Hampshire are famous for their outstanding fall colors, which is why the trip focuses on this area.

But the southern New England states experience their share of gorgeous fall color as well. If time allows, I absolutely recommend venturing further into New England. Autumn’s glory is found in every single corner of this region.

New England Fall Foliage Road Trip: Essential Info

Let’s talk planning your fall road trip in New England.

You may be wondering: what is the best month for a New England fall road trip? When is the best time to visit New England for fall colors? When do the fall colors in New England peak?

Quick note about fall foliage in New England:

Foliage conditions vary each year due to that year’s temperature, rainfall, and other factors.  Some years have an earlier or later peak, or a more dramatic show of colors. Some foliage seasons are short, and some last a bit longer.

However, even with some variation, you can typically expect to see fall foliage in New England from early/mid-September through the end of October.

Peak foliage, when the leaves are at their best and brightest of the season, typically hits in early to mid October .

The foliage develops from north to south, with northern spots like Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire generally experiencing “peak” before Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Yankee Magazine’s Peak Foliage Map is a perfect visual representation of the fall foliage progression in the region, and you can follow this real time fall foliage tracker for the northeast here and plan your best driving route for fall foliage colors that way, too!

Planning Your Trip

Now that you know approximately when to road trip through New England, you’ll have to decide how long your trip will be.

In my experience, 7 days is the perfect amount of time to explore. It gives you enough time to stop and visit a few destinations, while also allowing for flexibility as you go.

After all, driving is a big part of any road trip. You want to have plenty of time to take it slow, head off the beaten path, or even change your route.

It’s a good idea to stay flexible on a trip like this, as you can’t predict where the absolute best places for foliage will be, and sometimes, just heading a few miles over can make all the difference!

I’ve also created a 5 day itinerary as well as a 10 day itinerary, so you can easily customize your adventure to your needs.

Want to make your trip even longer? Go for it! You can use this northeast fall road trip itinerary as a starting point and expand as desired!

And if you only have a day or two, consider taking one of these scenic fall foliage drives . These shorter fall road trips around New England can be found in every single state.

🚗 Renting a Car: If you’re flying into New England, you’ll need to rent a car for this autumn road trip! I suggest checking out the best rates at Discover Cars.

Tips for Your New England Fall Road Trip

To have the best experience possible, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Make reservations for accommodations and popular attractions well in advance, as this is one of New England’s busiest times of the year.
• The best advice for what to pack for fall in New England is to bring layers. Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, and you’ll likely work up a sweat during any hikes or walks.
• It goes without saying that you should always drive carefully, but be aware that this busy tourist season often creates crowds and may even cause slowdowns on roads along popular “leaf-peeping” routes.
• Bring a quality camera to capture the stunning autumn landscapes, and maybe even binoculars for spotting wildlife. If you primarily use your phone for photos, like I do, don’t forget a car charger!
• Don’t leave New England without indulging in its fall culinary delights, including apple cider donuts, pumpkin pie, and hearty clam chowder.
• Consider downloading your road trip routes onto your phone with Google Maps to be used offline, as cell service can be spotty, especially in the mountains.
• Admire the scenery while being mindful of the environment; practice leave no trace principles and respect wildlife habitats.
• Pack a first aid kit, flashlight, extra water, blanket, and snacks in case of unforeseen circumstances. It’s always smart to be extra prepared for a road trip.

7 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Now let’s dive into the details: where will this New England fall foliage road trip take you?

The main itinerary I’m going to share in this post is this: a one week New England fall road trip. Later, you can read my variations, which offer options for both shorter and longer road trips. We’re going to start this road trip in Boston, which, with its massive Logan International Airport, is the most logical starting point for someone visiting New England from elsewhere.

But don’t skip Boston, if you have time! It’s a classic, deeply historic New England destination that is absolutely worth a visit at any time of year.

I highly recommend spending a few days exploring Boston before or after your road trip.

Resources for Exploring Boston: ⚓Essential Things to Do in Boston for First Timers ⚓One Day in Boston: An Itinerary ⚓ Fall in Boston : Where to Go and What to Do

Day 1: Boston MA to North Conway NH

Jump in your car and head out of Boston north toward New Hampshire. Your road trip has begun!

After your scenic drive, arrive in North Conway and check into your cozy lodging. I suggest any of these charming cabins in the White Mountains , many of which are near North Conway, or these Airbnb options .

Drop off your bags and head straight downtown for some exploring.

Check out the charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores that make up North Conway Village. Don’t miss Zeb’s General Store , a local institution since 1990, where you’ll find a classic, old-fashioned general store bursting with unique souvenirs and gourmet goodies.

When hunger strikes, hit up Moat Mountain Smoke House & Brewing Co . for some hearty comfort food and a refreshing craft brew. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and live music as you unwind from your journey.

Then hit the hay and get ready for another busy day tomorrow.

Resources for exploring North Conway & Nearby: 🍁 15+ Best Things to Do in North Conway NH 🍁 Best Restaurants in North Conway 🍁 15 Fun Things to do in Jackson, New Hampshire

Day 2: North Conway NH

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Peach’s Family Restaurant , where the portions are as generous as the smiles.

Of course, it’s fall in the White Mountains: this place is likely to be packed! Go as early as possible to avoid the crowds of other hungry travelers. Now, it’s time to conquer the outdoors! You have a few options today for adventuring in North Conway and the surrounding areas.

• Cathedral Ledge: Consider a hike up Cathedral Ledge in Echo Lake State Park. It’s a relatively short hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and White Mountains.
• Diana’s Baths: Alternatively, opt for the enchanting Diana’s Baths , a series of cascading waterfalls and pools accessible via a family-friendly hike. These look especially lovely surrounded by the New Hampshire foliage
• Black Cap Trail: If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenging hike, tackle the Black Cap Trail , offering panoramic views from the summit.

Later, hop on board on the Conway Scenic Railroad . This vintage-style train offers a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes, perfect for enjoying the fall foliage from a unique perspective.

The Conway Valley Train is a 55-minute scenic ride, so is ideal for those traveling with kids or who want a quick and cool experience. The railroad also offers longer more extensive fall foliage train journeys. Definitely worth checking out!

In the evening, treat yourself to another delightful dinner at a local favorite or try a new spot for some diverse flavors.

On a past trip to North Conway, my husband and I really enjoyed May Kelly’s Cottage , a tavern serving traditional Irish dishes.

Day 3: Kancamagus Highway to Franconia Notch State Park

Another amazing fall day in the White Mountains awaits you!

Today, you’ll depart North Conway westward along one of New Hampshire’s most iconic roads: the scenic Kancamagus Highway.

Known locally as “the Kanc”, this 56 mile, 2-lane mountain highway (also known as the Kancamagus Scenic Byway ) is particularly breathtaking in the autumn, as the leaves transform into their vibrant splendor.

While you could easily drive the entirety of the Kancamagus in approximately an hour (allow more time in fall), you will absolutely want to take your time.

There are numerous places to stop along the way, including scenic overlooks where you can grab a quick photo or trailheads where you can embark on a hike.

One of the first spots you’ll come across heading out of Conway is Albany Covered Bridge . There is a parking area here (a great opportunity to pay for your $5 White Mountain National Forest day use pass ).

Take one of the trails along the sides of the river to view the bridge, or if you desire, you can climb out onto the large rocks in the river to grab an iconic NH covered bridge photo.

You’ll also definitely will want to stop to check out Sabbaday Falls .

This pretty waterfall can be reached via an easy, flat, well-trodden 0.5 mile hike. It should take about 15 minutes, which makes it a small effort for a big payoff.

After all, there’s nothing like a gorgeous New Hampshire waterfall at the height of fall foliage.

Tips for Driving the Kancamagus in Fall: 🍁This route is popular for good reason, so expect crowds. Take your time driving and watch carefully for pedestrians. 🍁When you stop for photos, etc, make sure you’re in designated parking areas safely off the road. Be aware of the many cars on the highway and stay off the roads when on foot. 🍁Fuel up before leaving North Conway (or Lincoln, if coming from the opposite direction) as there are no gas stations or other amenities along this route.

You’ll have reached the end of the Kancamagus Highway when you arrive in the town of Lincoln . This is a smart place to stop for lunch before continuing on to explore in Franconia Notch State Park.

Franconia Notch State Park

Franconia Notch State Park is one of the crown jewels of the White Mountains. This destination is a testament to the diverse beauty of the Granite State, where rugged peaks, serene lakes, and dense forests come together to create an awe-inspiring landscape that draws thousands of visitors each year.

Head first to the Flume Gorge , an other-wordly natural gorge that features a boardwalk path through towering granite walls and past cascading waterfalls. Add to the scene fall foliage, and you’ve basically entered Tolkien’s Rivendell.

You should allow around 2 hours to explore Flume Gorge in all its winding angles.

Please note there is an entry fee for Flume Gorge, and you’ll save a couple bucks if you book in advance here .

After this busy and active day, you deserve a good meal! I’ve got lots of suggestions in my list of best Lincoln restaurants.

Then it’s time to rest your head.

You will probably love this amazing spot: Lumen Nature Retreat . This is a new glamping site located in nearby North Woodstock, and it’s an ideal place to stay in the fall, right in the heart of nature.

Some of their cozy cabins offer massive windows to look out onto the surrounding trees. Or, you can go even more rustic with tent glamping.

I’ll be staying at Lumen this fall for the first time, and I can’t wait to come back and tell you about it! I’ll definitely be sharing my thoughts here.

Day 4: Franconia Notch to Stowe VT

Get an early start today as you’re off to see Artist’s Bluff, a popular hike that ends in an absolutely spectacular view.

The trail starts in the large dirt parking lot off Rt 18 across the street from Cannon Mountain Ski Resort and heads steeply uphill. While the moderately-rated trail is relatively short, it is steep and robust, with some spots being a bit rocky.

You can expect to be a bit breathless by the time you reach the viewpoint overlooking Echo Lake.

Most hikers recommend starting the trail heading towards Bald Mountain, so tackling the trail clockwise. In the busy fall season, this may be a good option for avoiding the throngs that are heading straight up to the lookout counterclockwise.

Continue to Stowe

Let your GPS guide you on the road trip to Stowe, but try to avoid highways if you can. In my experience, it’s those slower, back roads that give you unexpected, amazing foliage views.

In fact, I’ve seen some incredible foliage along Route 2 near Danville while driving between these two destinations. That is an excellent road to consider taking.

All told, your drive to Stowe will take approximately an hour and a half, without including stops.

Check into your Stowe hotel ( Field Guide is great) and get ready to explore a bit of Stowe’s adorable Main Street.

Welcome to a quintessential New England town, the kind whose image is the subject of countless Vermont postcards and paintings. (In fact, Stowe’s white-steepled Community Church is among the most photographed buildings in Vermont).

As you explore the small, walkable Main Street and side streets, you’ll discover a terrific blend of local businesses that showcase the heart and soul of this picturesque town.

Small art galleries, a cozy coffee shop, an old-fashioned mercantile, and a well-stocked independent bookstore are among the shops you’ll want to visit as you explore downtown Stowe.

Don’t miss Shaw’s General Store, which not only epitomizes the classic New England general store but has done so since 1895!

When dinner hour approaches, head to Doc Pond’s . It’s a laidback restaurant with friendly vibes that is loved by locals and tourists alike. And if you’re staying at Field Guide, it’s just down the road.

Day 5: Stowe VT & Waterbury VT

It’s a beautiful day to take a hike in Stowe! There are numerous hiking trails in the Stowe area to choose from, but for this itinerary I recommend the Sterling Pond trail for a moderate 2 mile hike that ends at a glistening lake.

To get to the trailhead for this hike, you’ll have to drive up Mountain Road and into Smuggler’s Notch. This road becomes very narrow and extremely windy in the heart of the Notch, so while it’s absolutely awesome to check out, be sure to drive slowly and with caution.

And don’t try it with any kind of motorhome or RV!

After your hike, head back in the direction of town and stop at Stowe Mountain Resort. Although there’s no snow this time of year, so skiing is out, you can still enjoy the peaks on a gondola ride!

The famous bright red Stowe Gondola SkyRide takes you to the top of Mount Mansfield, which is the highest peak in Vermont.

The ride up offers splendid views over the colorful trees. Once you’re at the top, grab lunch at The Cliff House or The Waffle, two eatery options.

Now, it wouldn’t be fall in New England if you didn’t add some spookiness into the trip! in the Stowe area, you can visit one of Vermont’s classic covered bridges with a possibly haunted history! Emily’s Bridge, also known as Gold Brook Covered Bridge, is a small covered bridge located on Gold Brook Road, off of Route 100, just south of Stowe village.

According to legend, Emily was supposed to meet her lover at this bridge so they could run away together. But he never showed, and Emily sadly took her own life that night at the bridge. Rumor has it that Emily’s spirit may still haunt the bridge today, and reports of scratches on cars, lights flashing, and other weird happenings just might support that theory. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, this is still a beautiful example of Vermont’s covered bridges and well worth seeing-especially in the fall.

Wind up the rest of your day with a sampling of craft brews and dinner at the Trapp Brewery & Bierhall after enjoying views of Stowe from the grounds at The Trapp Family Lodge. Not in the mood for pretzels, spaetzle, and schnitzel? You might prefer to cozy up at family-owned, classic Italian restaurant Trattoria La Festa . Find more of the top-rated Stowe restaurants here .

More Resources for Exploring Stowe: 🍁 20 Best Things to Do in Stowe Vermont: Local Recs for All Seasons 🍁 15 Gorgeous VRBO & Airbnb Stowe VT Vacation Rentals 🍁 11 Best Hotels in Stowe Vermont: Where to Stay in Stowe

Day 6: Stowe VT to Woodstock VT

Today you’re leaving one gorgeous Vermont small town for another. These two destinations are definitely my top recommendations for visitors to the Green Mountain State. The road trip from Stowe to Woodstock is a fairly short one distance-wise, but you can make sure to capture the best possible foliage views by taking Route 100 south. There are also 2 essential places to stop along the way.

The first stop is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill , a Vermont fall necessity that you’re going to absolutely love.

This is THE spot for apple cider donuts, the best food on the planet, and truly the staple of my autumn diet. But not only is Cold Hollow the go-to for apple treats, it’s also a well-stocked, adorable country store, a tasty restaurant, and a hard cider tasting room.

Your second stop is the Ben & Jerry’s Factory . Their ice cream is world famous. Not only because it is delicious but because the company is known for championing progressive causes.

The factory tour is quite fun and it smells amazing in there! After you learn how Cherry Garcia and other favorite flavors are made, you can pay homage to flavors long gone in the “Flavor Graveyard” on a nearby hill. Does anyone remember Magic Brownies?

If you’ve got room left for lunch, grab some, and then continue on to Woodstock.

Once in Woodstock, check into your lodging. The Woodstock Inn is the perfect luxury choice, while The Shire is a solid mid-range option. Both are right downtown. Next, get ready for some pleasant exploring.

Stroll the downtown and the wide village green, which has a covered bridge just steps away. Browse the collection of shops with a wide variety of goods, and don’t miss Gillingham’s, the oldest general store in Vermont. As the afternoon continues, choose a local farm to visit. Billings Farm is a historic working dairy farm where you can learn a lot about the animals and enjoy the surrounding property. Sugarbush Farm is a 4-generation family farm specializing in cheese and maple syrup.

Both farms are terrific, and fortunately, Woodstock is small enough that you can likely squeeze both into your itinerary!

Dinner in Woodstock ends your day, and there are so many great restaurant options .

If you schedule well in advance, Cloudland Farm , is a true farm-to-table experience out of this world. The menu changes daily and everything is crafted completely from scratch for the most memorable Vermont culinary journey.

More Resources for Exploring Woodstock: 🍁 20 Best Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont 🍁 10 Best Hotels in Woodstock VT: Where to Stay in 2023 🍁 These 12 Restaurants in Woodstock Vermont NEED to Be on Your List

Day 7: Woodstock VT to Boston MA

It’s the final day of your incredible fall road trip around New England. The last leg of the journey takes you back to Boston.

Before departing Woodstock, grab coffee and a scrumptious breakfast at Mon Vert Cafe. I recommend my personal go-to: the maple latte.

Need some suggestions for road trip entertainment? You could grab one of these New England books in audio format on Audible and listen to something oh-so-appropriate for the journey.

8 or 9 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

If you’ve got an extra day or two to explore New England, you should add Salem, Massachusetts to your trip.

Because it’s such an awesome town, it’s incredibly busy in the fall. I repeat, incredibly busy .

But if you’re on a once-in-a-lifetime New England trip, you don’t want to miss this iconic spot. I get it.

Visiting Salem in the month of October is classic and so very atmospheric. My best tip for traveling to Salem is to book your lodging well in advance of this popular season and also start each day as early as possible.

The crowds can get crazy in Salem in the fall, but a 7am start gives you an hour or two for some quiet exploring (and some nice photos of the town!)

10 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

This 10 day itinerary for New England in the fall contains all of the same destinations as the 7 day itinerary, but your first stop instead will be Acadia National Park in Maine .

If you’ve got 10 days to spend exploring New England, adding a coastal stop is an absolute must. Not only is fall a fabulous and beautiful time to visit Acadia, it also tends to be somewhat less busy during this time than in the summer months. Check out all of our resources on things to do in Acadia and nearby Bar Harbor here:

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Need to shorten your road trip? For a 5 day trip, consider removing either Stowe or Woodstock from the itinerary. While both are spectacular destinations, this is the easiest way to shorten your trip.

Best Fall Foliage Drives in New England

Looking for some shorter New England fall road trip routes? There are a number of scenic fall foliage drives to consider, that can be done in just a few hours or stretched into several days.

Newport’s Ocean Drive – Rhode Island

• Distance: 10 miles
• Start and End: Fort Adams Park to Bellevue Ave
• Best Time to Go: September to Early November

I love Newport , period. This charming seaside city, located on Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island, is like an extravagant window to the past. Gilded Age mansions such as The Breakers are found all over this town, and the 19th century echoes of wealthy, lavish resort living are as strong today as they were then. 

Fall in Newport provides some great opportunities.

The summer’s peak of tourism has passed, and with it comes a refreshing ocean breeze among the colorful trees that surround mansion estates and scenic parks.

Since the fall foliage is nice, but not the primary factor for your fall road trip to Rhode Island, you can enjoy Newport anytime between September and early November.

Ocean Drive is a 10-mile seaside drive that follows the southern shore of Newport. It is not only one of the loveliest New England scenic drives as it follows along the ocean, but it’s also the perfect route for accessing all the best of Newport.

We think Fort Adams Park is a great place to start your trip! Continue from here to Brenton Cove Shore, where you’ll find the New York Yacht Club. After this, you’ll want to check out Castle Hill’s historical lighthouse in the East Passage of Narragansett Bay. 

Then spend some time relaxing at Brenton Point State Park , one of the major highlights on Ocean Drive. This wide-open green space on the south end of the island, with vast ocean views, is the perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or go fishing.

Continue past various beaches and scenic outlooks to Bellevue Ave, where you will discover a majority of the lavish 19th century mansions. The Breakers , Marble House , Rough Point , and the Elms are a few of the best. Take a walking tour and learn all about the history of these extravagant homes.

Points of Interest:

• New York Yacht Club
• Castle Hill Lighthouse
• Brenton Point State Park
• Fort Adams Park
• The Breakers
• Marble House
• Rough Point
• The Red Parrot Restaurant

Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park – Maine

• Distance: 27 miles
• Start and End: Hulls Cove Visitor Center to Cadillac Mountain
• Best Time to Go: September to Early October

Acadia National Park in Maine is somewhat of an unsung national park hero.

While people are busy praising the glory of Yellowstone and Yosemite, Acadia continues to stand its ground on the list of top 10 most visited national parks in the U.S!

And for good reason. Camping in the forest by wetlands near the craggy seaside, extensive biking and hiking trails, large ponds and lakes, rocky beaches, and all the best fall foliage is right at your fingertips.

Seaside towns like Bar Harbor also bring a lot of ease and convenience to an adventure-driven destination. 

To get the most enjoyment out of your fall trip, we’d recommend going in September before the temperatures drop significantly; the leaves will be changing, and the crowds will be light at this time!

We think Park Loop Road is the prime route to explore all of Acadia’s best adventures and natural beauty, especially during fall.

This 27-mile, mostly one-way scenic road takes you around the east side of Mount Desert Island. Get oriented at Hulls Cove Visitor Center near Bar Harbor with a map of the island.

Then drive on at your own pace, hitting Sand Beach, the uber-popular Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs. A major highlight you will also not want to miss is Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse .

Further along the route is Sieur-de-Monts , where you can explore the Nature Center and Wild Gardens of Acadia.

Then head to Jordan Pond and Jordan Pond House , where you can learn the history of its important cultural legacy and hike the pond’s loop along meandering boardwalks and native wildlife.

End your national park road trip in Maine by driving to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the perfect spot to catch an amazing autumn sunset.

Points of Interest: 

• Hulls Cove Visitor Center – Bar Harbor 
• Shore Path – Bar Harbor
• Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse – Bass Harbor
• Sand Beach – Bar Harbor
• Thunder Hole – Bar Harbor
• Otter Cliffs – Mount Desert Island
• Sieur-de-Monts – Bar Harbor
• Jordan Pond, Jordan Pond House – Seal Harbor
• Cadillac Mountain – Mount Desert Island

Vermont’s Scenic Route 100 – Vermont

• Distance: 150 miles
• Start and End: Wilmington to Stowe
• Best Time to Go: September to Mid-October

Looking for that quintessential “fall in New England” experience?

You know, the one you see in movies with red barns and grazing cows, an endless expanse of green hills, orange and yellow maple trees, and locally owned shops and artisan fairs?

Well, you’re going to want to put on some cozy plaid, a beanie, and take a cruise up Vermont’s Scenic Route 100 , undoubtedly one of the best fall foliage drives in New England.

In fact, it’s one of my favorite Vermont fall road trip routes!

Vermont’s Route 100 is a winding, scenic road that traverses north for 200 miles from the border of Massachusetts to Lake Memphremagog, along the east side of Green Mountain National Forest.

Dubbed by Yankee Magazine as the best foliage drive in VT (and definitely one of the best in New England!), the variety of landscapes, points of interest, and peak foliage views are unbeatable. 

Start your journey in Wilmington , a quaint farming community with a historical downtown.

Then move north toward Weston, a stretch of highway featuring wildflower fields and cute gazebos.

Stop at the Vermont Country Store for one-of-a-kind handmade goods.

Continuing north, you will pass by beloved local landmarks like Echo Lake State Park and Lake Rescue.

And just above Amherst Lake is Plymouth, the perfect place for history buffs to explore the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site , the homestead Coolidge grew up on. 

Further north still, you’ll enjoy a 10-mile stretch of densely forested highway along the Granville Gulf State Reservation. Keep an eye out for moose and rushing rivers as you carry on toward the Mad River Valley.

This region has become a popular destination due to the area’s chic vibe, killer ski resorts like Killington and Sugarbush, and craft fairs, music festivals, and covered bridges abound.

You’ve almost arrived at the end, so why not indulge in a little Ben & Jerry’s ? Waterbury is home to the Vermont-based ice cream company we all know and love. Take a factory tour and sample some of the quirky flavors!

Last but not least, end your road trip in Stowe, a Vermont town classic with all the fixings. It’s a white-steeple church, ski bum, beer brewing, local artisan kind of village, and the perfect place to lay your head after a long New England fall foliage drive!

• Downtown Wilmington – Wilmington
• Vermont Country Store – Weston 
• Echo Lake, Lake Rescue, Amherst Lake 
• President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site – Plymouth
• Granville Gulf State Reservation – Granville
• Killington Ski Area – Killington
• Sugarbush Resort – Warren
• Ben & Jerry’s Factory – Waterbury
• Stowe Village – Stowe

The Lake Winnipesaukee Loop – New Hampshire

• Distance: 100 miles
• Start and End: Alton

Who doesn’t love a good loop route? There’s just something satisfying about perpetually seeing new sights for the entire adventure, without the backtracking.

The route around Lake Winnipesaukee in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire is the perfect New England fall road trip itinerary. With 8 unique towns bordering NH’s largest and most popular body of water, you’ll discover the ideal blend of outdoor activities and luxury lake living during the cooler, slower months. 

In reality, you can start your journey in any one of these towns and follow the lake’s edge in whichever direction your heart desires. But we think Alton – a historical bay town with a beautiful 4-mile cove – is a great place to begin (and end!).

After taking in the views from their cozy cove, head on to Wolfeboro , a crunchy lake town with its own rail trail and an outdoor art walk. In addition, Wolfeboro’s Wright Museum of World War II is a fantastic educational institution dedicated to World War II history.

And if you’re looking for a souvenir to remember your trip, stop by Black’s Paper Shop for a special gift. 

From Wolfeboro, drive on to Moultonborough, one of the oldest incorporated towns in the U.S. This charming town was founded in 1777 and has some amazing gems, especially the Old Country Store , which is considered the oldest surviving business and general store in the country!

Waste all your pennies at the candy counter, sample unique local foods, or buy some handcrafted home goods. Another gem in Moultonborough is Castle in the Clouds , a magnificent mansion high up in the hills where you can tour the grand estate and learn about the history of its original owners.

Next stop on the loop is Meredith , a central hub of the tourism, luxury lake living, and resort leisure that Lake Winni attracts. In this scenic town, you might find yourself ogling at the grand lake houses and stylish hotels lining the bay.

Pull off the highway and shop your heart out at Mill Falls Marketplace , an open-air shopping center with restaurants, a bookshop, Ben & Jerry’s, and chic indie businesses.

Meredith is a great halfway point to spend the night if the 100-mile loop is too much.

If not, carry on to Laconia while the sun is still shining. If the weather permits, visit Weirs Beach .

If not, visit Funspot , a massive entertainment center that boasts the record for Largest Arcade in the World.

Then Gilford comes next on the loop.

The biggest draw this town sees is to Gunstock Resort , which can be hiked during the off-ski season. And finally, you will arrive back in Alton to complete your epic Lake Winnipesaukee road trip.

We love the lake life, especially on a scenic fall foliage drive!

• Alton Bay – Alton
• Wolfeboro Art Walk – Wolfeboro
• The Wright Museum of World War II – Wolfeboro
• Black’s Paper Shop – Wolfeboro
• The Old Country Store – Moultonborough
• Castle in the Clouds – Moultonborough
• Mill Falls Marketplace – Meredith
• Weirs Beach – Laconia
• Funspot – Laconia
• Gunstock Resort – Gilford

U.S. Coastal Route 1 – Maine

• Distance: 200 miles
• Start and End: Kennebunkport to Bar Harbor
• Best Time to Go: Mid-September to Early November

We all need a little more Maine in our lives, and that’s why we felt like our Acadia Loop road trip wasn’t quite enough – so we’re throwing U.S. Coastal Route 1 into the mix!

This incredible, north-south coastal highway actually starts all the way down in Key West, and traverses 2,390 miles up the east coast to Fort Kent in Maine. 

Maine’s portion of the U.S.’ very first north-south highway system is over 200 miles of pure natural beauty. Crossing through peaceful boating towns, beachside cities, and craggy coastal landmarks, you’ll have the best of Maine’s attractions and fall foliage without all the summer traffic. 

A great place to kick things off is in Kennebunkport , a charming southern Maine beach town.

Walk around the sandy Goose Rocks Beach, then get a good look at a collection of historical streetcars at the Seashore Trolley Museum .

As you continue north through Biddeford and Old Orchard Beach, stop at one of New England’s most iconic landmarks: the Portland Head Light on Cape Elizabeth. This iconic white lighthouse was built in 1791, making it the oldest lighthouse in Maine. 

From here, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from Portland , one of the friendliest, “foodiest,” artsiest towns on the East Coast. If you spent an extra day or five here, you wouldn’t regret it. Well, you might regret gorging on copious amounts of Holy Donuts and Duckfat French fries, but that’s a different story. 

Beyond Portland, you’ll pass through Georgetown, Brunswick, and arrive in Rockland .

This small seaside town has lovely harbor views, a charming downtown, and great food to boot. Check out the Farnsworth Art Museum or Archipelago to satisfy your craving for fine art. And if you are in the mood for brunch, dine at the cheerful Home Kitchen Cafe . 

We are on the home stretch now!

A great destination to end your Coastal Route 1 road trip is none other than Bar Harbor, situated on Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park. Bar Harbor is insanely busy in the summer months but gets a bit sleepier and much more relaxing in September and October. Bar Harbor is a souvenir-hunter’s haven, as well as an adorable, quaint town to walk around and enjoy harbor views from Shore Path.

Not to mention, Bar Harbor gives you incredible access to everything Acadia National Park has to offer.

• Goose Rocks Beach – Kennebunkport
• Seashore Trolley Museum – Kennebunkport
• Portland Head Light – Cape Elizabeth
• The Holy Donut – Portland
• Duckfat – Portland
• Farnsworth Art Museum – Rockland
• Archipelago – Rockland
• Home Kitchen Cafe – Rockland

The Berkshires – Massachusetts

• Distance: 35 miles
• Start and End: Stockbridge to Williamstown
• Best Time to Go: Early September to Late October

Our list of fantastic road trips in New England wouldn’t be complete without including New England’s most historical, highly educated, and diverse state: Massachusetts .

While there are many wonderful regions to explore in MA – from the Cape Cod coastline to bustling Boston – we think there is something so special about the Berkshires.

The Berkshires is a collection of towns in the rolling highlands of western MA.

The area’s pastoral beauty is matched only by its cultural and artistic sophistication. If you are looking for a scenic countryside retreat with plenty of opportunities for historical exploration, leisurely driving, and prime New England fall foliage drives, this is the destination for you.

Start off strong in the town of Stockbridge , where you will find some incredible natural and historical gems.

Explore the Norman Rockwell Museum , housing works by this famous American painter in the very place he spent the last 25 years of his life.

Then pop over to the Berkshire Botanical Garden , which highlights native plants that thrive in the Berkshires. Then continue north for 10 minutes on Route 7 to arrive in Lenox, a town best known for being the former home of author Edith Wharton. 

After touring The Mount , Wharton’s gorgeous estate, head to Pittsfield, yet another town known as the home of a reputable author (seriously – we should just call this the legendary American authors tour).

If you appreciate literature, take a tour of Arrowhead House , the home where novelist Herman Melville wrote Moby Dick. While you are still in Pittsfield, check out the Berkshire Museum , which exhibits a cool mishmash of art, natural history, and ancient civilization.

From Pittsfield, another historical institution awaits you in Hancock at the Hancock Shaker Village .

And after you move along from Hancock and pass through Lanesborough, you’ll end up in North Adams , a historic college and mill town with a strong arts vibe and hiking access to Mount Greylock, the highest peak in MA.

Check out the Mass Museum of Contemporary Art while you’re here. 

Finally, end your Berkshires road trip in Williamstown, a cultural and educational hub in the Berkshires.

This beautiful, “quintessential Berkshire village” is surrounded by mountains, biking and hiking trails, and farmlands. Williams College is the heart of the town, imbuing it with a flourishing arts and culture scene.

Fall in Massachusetts is heavenly, so you’ll find plenty to do and see during a Bay State fall foliage road trip!

• Norman Rockwell Museum – Stockbridge
• Berkshire Botanical Garden – Stockbridge
• The Mount, Edith Wharton House – Lenox
• Arrowhead House – Pittsfield
• Berkshire Museum – Pittsfield
• Hancock Shaker Village – Hancock
• Mount Greylock – North Adams
• Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art – North Adams
• Williams College – Williamstown

Connecticut State Route 169 – Connecticut

• Distance: 47.3 miles
• Start and End: Lisbon to Woodstock

We’re topping off our list of New England fall road trips with Connecticut State Route 169 , a National Scenic Byway featuring all the historic buildings, charming communities, and autumn colors that make New England so memorable.

Connecticut is the third smallest state in the nation, but it’s got a lot going for it as the home of Mystic Seaport, the Mark Twain house, the mighty Connecticut River, and Yale University. 

Starting in eastern Connecticut in the town of Lisbon and moving north to Woodstock near the border of Massachusetts,

Route 169 offers a drive through living history. Start your tour in Lisbon with a foliage stroll through Lisbon Meadows Park.

Then head north on 169 to Waterbury, where you can visit the Prudence Crandall Museum or chill on the Waterbury Green at the city’s center. 

Not much further north you will hit the town of Brooklyn, home to the New England Center of Contemporary Art.

Pay attention to the unique architecture as you meander onward to Pomfret, a town with incredible history that you can observe in the beautiful 19th century churches, homes, and libraries.

Your final destination on the Route 169 tour is the town of Woodstock, a mere 10 minutes north of Pomfret. While here, you can’t miss out on the Roseland Cottage , a historic 1846 house-turned-museum.

This signature Gothic Revival home with its bold pink exterior was once the summer home of the Bowens, one of Connecticut’s prominent Victorian Era families. Explore its ornate, patterned, vibrant rooms and learn about a unique piece of Connecticut history.

• Lisbon Meadows Park – Lisbon
• Prudence Crandall Museum – Waterbury
• Waterbury Green – Waterbury
• New England Center of Contemporary Art – Brooklyn
• Roseland Cottage – Woodstock

No matter how long you explore New England’s 6 amazing states for, I hope you have an incredible adventure in this region I love so much!

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Helene in Between

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The Ultimate Guide to New England’s Best Fall Foliage Spots: 20 Places and Hidden Gems You Must Visit

By Helene Sula

New England's fall foliage is legendary, attracting visitors worldwide. While popular spots are well-known, this guide highlights 20 hidden gems that offer stunning autumn landscapes.

New England's breathtaking fall foliage draws visitors from around the world, with its vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow transforming the region into a natural masterpiece. While popular spots are certainly worth visiting, we've compiled an ultimate guide of 20 hidden gems that will take your fall foliage experience to new heights.

So grab your camera and a warm drink, and let's embark on a colorful journey through the best-kept secrets of New England's fall foliage.

I'll never forget my first trip to New England in search of the legendary fall foliage. You see, as a native Texan, I had spent my entire life surrounded by sprawling plains and sweltering heat. Autumn in the South typically meant a subtle shift in temperature, with foliage that made the modest transition from green to brown before falling to the ground. So, when my friends regaled me with tales of vibrant reds, fiery oranges, and bright yellows that adorned the New England landscape every year, I couldn't help but be skeptical. How could leaves possibly be that colorful?

I arrived in New England with cautious optimism, not quite knowing what to expect. My destination was a quaint bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Exhausted from a day of travel, I fell into a deep sleep, dreaming of the technicolor landscapes I hoped to find the next morning.

As the sun began to rise, I groggily stumbled out of bed and pushed open the curtains, expecting to be greeted by the same muted hues I'd known all my life. But what lay before me was a sight so astonishing that I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't still dreaming.

The White Mountains had been transformed into a canvas of spectacular colors, as if an artist had dipped their brush into the most vibrant of paints and generously applied it to every leaf in sight. I stood there, mouth agape, as a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows stretched out before me, their hues intensified by the morning light.

With the same excitement as a kid in a candy store, I threw on my clothes, grabbed my camera, and raced out the door, eager to explore this enchanting world of color. I had become an instant believer in the magic of New England's fall foliage, and I couldn't wait to discover more.

In this guide, I'll be sharing my top picks, the 10 best places, along with hidden gems for the best places to see fall foliage in New England, so you too can be mesmerized by the vibrant tapestry of colors that awaits. From coastal towns to mountain peaks and bustling cities, there's a breathtaking view around every corner. Trust me, it's a sight you won't want to miss.

20 Places to See Fall Foliage in New England

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I've got 20 amazing places mapped out to make the most of your leaf peeping adventure! If you're looking for a guide and itinerary, check it out, here: The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary . Or, check out the best places in New Hampshire here or Vermont here !

Dixville Notch State Park is a lesser-traveled destination that boasts beautiful fall foliage. Home to the striking Flume Brook Falls, the park provides a serene setting to enjoy autumn's vibrant colors.

Pro Tip: Drive along Route 26 for a picturesque foliage tour.

The Kancamagus Highway, or “The Kanc,” is a 34.5-mile scenic byway that winds through the White Mountain National Forest. This famous drive offers some of the best fall foliage views in New England.

Pro Tip: Stop at the numerous overlooks and picnic areas along the route to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

Conway, a quintessential New England town nestled in the heart of the Mount Washington Valley, offers some of the most picturesque fall foliage in the region. With the majestic White Mountains as its backdrop, the town is surrounded by spectacular landscapes that come alive with brilliant hues each autumn. Wander through the charming streets of North Conway Village, explore the nearby Kancamagus Highway, or hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad for a leisurely journey through the vibrant countryside.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic covered bridges in the area, such as the Albany Covered Bridge and the Honeymoon Bridge, which provide a perfect setting for capturing memorable fall foliage photos.

See the best places for Fall in New Hampshire here .

The charming town of Woodstock is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring the fall foliage. Wander through the historic town center or venture into the nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

Pro Tip: Visit nearby Sugarbush Farm for a quintessential Vermont experience, complete with maple syrup and cheese tasting.

Stowe is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, with the surrounding Green Mountains offering a breathtaking backdrop. Drive along the scenic Route 100 or explore the numerous hiking trails to experience the vibrant colors.

Of course, make a stop at the famous Cold Hollow Cider for some hot and fresh cider donuts!

Pro Tip: Take a ride on the Stowe Mountain Resort gondola for an aerial view of the foliage.

This narrow mountain pass, nestled between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, offers striking views of the fall foliage. Drive along Route 108 or hike the numerous trails in the area to experience the vibrant colors up close.

Pro Tip: Check out the nearby Sterling Pond Trail for a picturesque hike with a stunning pond view.

See the best places for Fall in Vermont here.

Franconia Notch State Park is home to the famous Flume Gorge, a natural granite canyon surrounded by vibrant foliage. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Artist's Bluff Trail, which provides panoramic views of the fall colors.

Pro Tip: Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for a breathtaking foliage experience.

Crawford Notch State Park, already mentioned in our guide as the location of Mount Willard, offers additional opportunities to explore the fall foliage. Drive along Route 302 or hike to the scenic Arethusa Falls for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

Pro Tip: Visit the historic Willey House for a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Acadia National Park is famous for its striking coastal scenery, but it's also a fantastic destination for fall foliage. Located in Northern Maine, this park is one of America's smallest National Parks and offers the highest views on the East Coast. Drive along the Park Loop Road or explore the park's extensive trail network to witness the colors against a backdrop of granite cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.

Pro Tip: Hike the Jordan Pond Path for a leisurely walk with stunning foliage and pond views.

Read more: One week Fall Foliage itinerary for New England.

Camden, known as the “Jewel of the Coast,” is a picturesque coastal town in Maine that offers a unique combination of charming architecture, a bustling harbor, and stunning fall foliage. The surrounding Camden Hills State Park provides an excellent opportunity to witness the vibrant autumn colors against a backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

Pro Tip: Hike to the top of Mount Battie within Camden Hills State Park for a panoramic view of the town, the harbor, and the breathtaking fall foliage.

With Camden, Maine, added to our list, you'll have a diverse range of destinations to explore throughout New England, ensuring a memorable and awe-inspiring autumn experience. From coastal towns to mountain peaks, the fall foliage in this region offers something for everyone.

The historic Mohawk Trail, also known as Route 2, is one of the oldest scenic byways in New England. Stretching over 60 miles through the Berkshire Mountains, this picturesque drive offers stunning views of the vibrant fall foliage, quaint towns, and historic landmarks.

Pro Tip: Stop at the famous Hairpin Turn, just east of North Adams, for a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and foliage.

Newport, a coastal city known for its opulent mansions and rich maritime history, offers an unexpected fall foliage experience. Stroll along the famous Cliff Walk or explore the tree-lined streets of the historic district to take in the brilliant autumn colors.

Pro Tip: Visit the Fort Adams State Park for a combination of fall foliage, history, and coastal views.

Read more: The ultimate Fall foliage road trip in New England.

Old Lyme, situated on the banks of the Connecticut River, is a charming New England town with a rich artistic heritage. The town's picturesque landscape, adorned with fall foliage, has inspired generations of artists. Wander through the historic district or visit the nearby wildlife preserves for a glimpse of the vibrant colors.

Pro Tip: Check out the Florence Griswold Museum to learn about the town's artistic history and enjoy the beautiful grounds, which come alive with color in the fall.

Boston, a bustling city steeped in history, also offers an urban fall foliage experience. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Beacon Hill and Back Bay, or take a walk through the iconic Boston Common and Public Garden to witness the autumn colors.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a scenic ride on the Swan Boats in the Public Garden or embark on a fall foliage cruise along the Charles River for a unique perspective of the city's foliage.

Tucked away in the heart of the White Mountains, Hart's Location is a hidden gem that offers some of the most stunning fall foliage in New Hampshire. This tiny, picturesque town is surrounded by dense forests and dramatic landscapes that come alive with vibrant colors each autumn. Hart's Location is also located near Crawford Notch State Park, which boasts an array of scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites that only enhance the overall leaf-peeping experience.

If you're searching for an exceptional photo location to capture the essence of New England's fall foliage, look no further than the Fourth Iron Campground. Situated near the Saco River in the White Mountain National Forest, this picturesque campground provides ample opportunities for photographers to snap stunning shots of the vibrant autumn colors.

The Fourth Iron Campground is also conveniently located near the Fourth Iron Trestle, a historic railroad bridge that crosses the Saco River. This trestle offers a unique and visually striking contrast to the surrounding fall foliage, making it an ideal subject for photographers looking to create compelling compositions. The combination of the trestle, the river, and the radiant colors of the leaves creates a truly captivating scene that you'll want to capture and share with others.

Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, the picturesque village of Tamworth is another must-visit destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. This charming New Hampshire town, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, is surrounded by lush forests that burst into a dazzling array of colors each autumn. The serene beauty of Tamworth's countryside, coupled with its quaint village atmosphere, makes it a perfect location for a peaceful and relaxing leaf-peeping getaway.

Pro Tip: While exploring Tamworth, be sure to visit the Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, which offers a glimpse into the town's past and provides a unique backdrop for your fall foliage photos. Additionally, take a scenic drive along Route 113A, also known as the Chocorua Lake Loop, for stunning views of the surrounding foliage and the iconic Mount Chocorua.

Mount Willard offers a moderate 3.2-mile round-trip hike with breathtaking panoramic views of Crawford Notch. The summit showcases a vibrant tapestry of fall colors, making it an ideal spot for leaf peeping and photography.

Pro Tip: Hike during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a serene experience.

This lesser-known park is home to Katahdin, Maine's tallest peak, and offers a stunning array of fall foliage. Explore the park's diverse hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging climbs, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.

Pro Tip: Drive along the Park Tote Road for an unforgettable foliage-viewing experience.

Located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, the serene and pristine Lake Willoughby is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking breathtaking fall foliage. The lake is nestled between Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, creating a dramatic backdrop for the vibrant colors that adorn the surrounding forests each autumn. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the stunning hues of the leaves, creating an almost surreal atmosphere that is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Pro Tip: For an unforgettable leaf-peeping experience, hike one of the many trails that wind through the nearby Willoughby State Forest, such as the Mount Pisgah or Mount Hor trails. Both trails offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding foliage, as well as opportunities to spot local wildlife. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider taking a scenic drive along Route 5A, which follows the western shore of the lake and offers multiple viewpoints for admiring the fall colors.

For a truly immersive fall experience, visit the family-owned Cayford Orchard in Skowhegan, Maine. This picturesque farm, nestled amidst rolling hills and scenic landscapes, offers more than just a stunning backdrop for leaf-peeping. With over 1,200 apple trees spread across 18 acres, Cayford Orchard provides visitors the opportunity to pick their own apples while soaking in the vibrant colors of the surrounding foliage.

Pro Tip: Be sure to plan your visit on a weekend when the farm's charming country store is open. Here, you can sample and purchase their delicious homemade cider, apple butter, and other tasty treats that are sure to enhance your fall foliage adventure. Cayford Orchard is the perfect destination for families and couples alike, combining quintessential New England charm with a fun, hands-on experience.

Located along the picturesque shoreline of Connecticut, the historic town of Guilford is a delightful destination for those in search of New England's fall foliage. Known for its well-preserved Colonial architecture and charming town green, Guilford offers a delightful combination of coastal charm and vibrant autumn colors. As you stroll through the quaint town center, the dazzling hues of the surrounding foliage create a striking contrast against the backdrop of historic homes and buildings.

Pro Tip: While in Guilford, be sure to visit the nearby Strawberry Hollow Farm, a family-owned farm situated amidst the beautiful Connecticut countryside. Here, you can pick your own apples and pumpkins, explore the corn maze, and even take a scenic hayride through the property. The farm's picturesque setting, surrounded by the brilliant colors of autumn, provides a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the essence of New England's fall charm.

Situated in the western part of Maine, the charming town of Bethel is another fantastic destination for experiencing New England's fall foliage. Surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest and the Mahoosuc Range, Bethel offers an idyllic setting for admiring the vibrant autumn colors. The quaint town center, with its historic architecture and welcoming atmosphere, only adds to the appeal of this picturesque locale.

Pro Tip: For an unforgettable leaf-peeping experience, take a scenic drive along Route 2, which offers stunning views of the surrounding foliage and nearby Grafton Notch State Park. Alternatively, explore the numerous hiking trails in the area, such as the Table Rock Trail or the Eyebrow Loop Trail, both of which provide panoramic views of the breathtaking fall colors. And for those looking to combine their love for fall foliage with a bit of adventure, consider taking a scenic chairlift ride at the Sunday River Resort, where you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the magnificent autumn landscape.

The quaint village of Weston, Vermont, is yet another enchanting destination for those seeking the quintessential New England fall foliage experience. Nestled in the Green Mountains, this charming village is steeped in history and boasts a delightful town center, complete with a village green, historic buildings, and a picturesque millpond – all surrounded by the dazzling hues of autumn.

Insider Tip: While in Weston, be sure to visit the famous Weston Village Store, which has been serving the community since 1891. This historic general store offers a wide variety of local products, making it the perfect spot to find unique souvenirs or gifts. For a truly memorable leaf-peeping adventure, explore the nearby Green Mountain National Forest, which offers numerous hiking trails and scenic drives that showcase the region's breathtaking fall colors. Another great option is to take a leisurely stroll around the village, soaking in the charm and beauty of this idyllic New England destination.

Nestled in the picturesque Litchfield Hills, the charming town of Litchfield, Connecticut, is yet another fantastic destination for experiencing New England's spectacular fall foliage. Known for its rich history, elegant architecture, and vibrant arts scene, Litchfield offers visitors a quintessential New England experience, complete with breathtaking autumn colors that transform the landscape into a veritable wonderland.

Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the stunning fall foliage in Litchfield, take a scenic drive along Route 63, which meanders through the rolling hills and quaint villages of the area. Alternatively, explore the numerous hiking trails in the nearby White Memorial Conservation Center, where you can wander through the woods and immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of the season. Don't forget to stop by the Litchfield Town Green, where you can admire the historic buildings adorned with the striking colors of autumn leaves.

For a truly authentic New England experience, a visit to Hogan's Cider Mill in Burlington, Connecticut, is a must during the fall foliage season. Established in 1912, this historic cider mill produces some of the finest apple cider in the region, making it a favorite stop for both locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by the brilliant hues of autumn leaves, Hogan's Cider Mill offers a picturesque setting for savoring the flavors of the season.

Pro Tip: While at the mill, be sure to sample their delicious, freshly-pressed cider and indulge in their famous cider donuts – a perfect treat to enjoy amidst the stunning fall foliage. You can also browse their selection of local products, such as honey, maple syrup, and apple butter, making for unique souvenirs or gifts.

Set along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, Burlington is Vermont's largest city and a vibrant destination for experiencing the region's fall foliage. With its bustling downtown, historic architecture, and stunning waterfront, Burlington offers a diverse array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy against a backdrop of vibrant autumn colors.

Pro Tip: To make the most of your leaf-peeping adventure in Burlington, take a stroll along the waterfront at Waterfront Park, where you can admire the stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, framed by the brilliant hues of the fall foliage. Another great option is to explore the scenic trails at Mount Philo State Park, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape adorned in autumn colors.

Nestled between the Taconic and Green Mountains, Manchester, Vermont, is a picturesque and vibrant destination for experiencing New England's fall foliage. Known for its charming downtown, upscale shopping, and historic architecture, Manchester offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it an ideal location for a leaf-peeping getaway.

Insider Tip: For an unforgettable autumn experience in Manchester, take a scenic drive along Route 7A, which offers stunning views of the surrounding foliage and the majestic Green Mountains. Alternatively, hike the trails at Equinox Preservation Trust, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the vibrant fall colors while exploring over 914 acres of protected land. Don't forget to visit Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, a stunning Georgian Revival mansion that offers a unique glimpse into history against the backdrop of the magnificent autumn landscape.

New England's fall foliage offers an unparalleled experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring these hidden gems, you'll discover a side of New England that few have seen. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant colors of New England's best fall foliage spots.

Before embarking on your fall foliage adventure in New England, it's essential to be well-prepared to make the most of your experience. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Timing: The peak foliage season varies depending on the location and weather conditions. Generally, it begins in late September in northern New England and gradually progresses southward through October. Keep an eye on foliage prediction maps and local updates to ensure you visit during the prime viewing window.

Weather: New England's autumn weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to dress in layers and be prepared for varying temperatures and conditions. Rain is not uncommon, so bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable while exploring.

Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the fall foliage in New England, as it allows you to access remote areas and travel at your own pace. Be prepared for increased traffic on popular routes during peak season, and remember that some mountain passes may close during inclement weather.

Accommodations: Book your accommodations well in advance, as popular destinations can fill up quickly during the fall season. Consider staying in smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path locations for a more peaceful and authentic experience.

Outdoor Safety: When hiking or exploring natural areas, always stick to marked trails and follow local guidelines to protect the environment and ensure your safety. Bring a map, adequate water, and snacks, and let someone know your planned route and expected return time.

By taking these factors into account, you'll be well-prepared to chase the fall foliage and enjoy a memorable New England experience.

The best time to visit New England for incredible fall foliage depends on several factors, including location, elevation, and weather conditions. In general, the fall foliage season begins in late September and extends through October. Here's a rough guide to help you plan your trip:

Late September: The peak foliage season typically starts in late September in the northernmost parts of New England, including the higher elevations of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. This is the time to visit areas such as Baxter State Park in Maine, Mount Washington in New Hampshire, and the Northeast Kingdom in Vermont.

Early October: As the season progresses, the vibrant colors spread southward and lower in elevation. In early October, prime foliage viewing can be found in central Vermont, New Hampshire's White Mountains, and Maine's Acadia National Park.

Mid-October: By mid-October, the fall colors reach their peak in southern Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. This is an excellent time to explore destinations such as the Berkshires in Massachusetts, the Litchfield Hills in Connecticut, and the Blackstone River Valley in Rhode Island.

Late October: The fall foliage season typically winds down in late October, with the last of the vibrant colors visible in the coastal and lowland areas of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

It's important to note that the timing of peak foliage can vary from year to year due to factors such as temperature, rainfall, and sunlight. To ensure you visit at the optimal time, consult local resources and foliage prediction maps, which provide up-to-date information on the progression of the fall colors.

There are several websites that provide foliage predictions and updates to help you plan your fall foliage trip. Some popular options include:

Yankee Magazine's Foliage Network (New England Today) : Yankee Magazine's foliage network provides regular updates, foliage maps, and peak color predictions for the New England region. Their website also features articles, tips, and recommendations for fall travel in the area.

The Foliage Network : The Foliage Network offers regional reports on the progress of fall foliage across the United States, including the New England area. They provide foliage maps, percentage of color change, and peak color predictions based on data collected from their network of spotters.

Weather.com : The Weather Channel's website provides a fall foliage map that tracks the progression of fall colors across the United States. The map is regularly updated, providing a visual guide to help you determine the best time to visit a specific location.

SmokyMountains.com Fall Foliage Prediction Map : Although focused primarily on the Great Smoky Mountains, this interactive map also provides fall foliage predictions for the entire United States, including New England. The map allows you to slide through the dates to see the predicted progression of foliage colors.

State tourism websites: State tourism websites for the New England states ( Maine , New Hampshire , Vermont , Massachusetts , Rhode Island , and Connecticut ) often provide fall foliage reports, updates, and resources. Be sure to check the official websites for each state to find region-specific information and recommendations.

By planning your trip according to the typical foliage timeline and staying informed about current conditions, you can experience the best of New England's fall foliage and create unforgettable memories.

New England's fall foliage is a breathtaking sight to behold, but it's important to plan your trip carefully to ensure you get the most out of this seasonal spectacle. To make the most of your trip, consider taking a scenic drive through one of the many popular foliage routes, such as the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire or the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts. You might also want to go hiking, biking, or boating to enjoy the scenery up close and personal.

If you are looking to experience the vibrant colors of autumn in New England, a fall foliage road trip is the perfect way to do it. Here's my full guide with maps! The beautiful region in the northeastern United States is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and stunning foliage displays during the fall season. Here are some suggested routes for a fall foliage road trip in New England:

1. Vermont Route 100

Vermont Route 100 is one of the most popular routes for experiencing fall foliage in New England. The scenic byway runs through the entire length of Vermont and offers stunning views of the Green Mountains, rolling hills, and quaint villages. The best time to take this route is in mid-October when the colors are at their peak.

2. Kancamagus Highway

Kancamagus Highway is a 34-mile scenic drive located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The road winds through the forested mountains and offers breathtaking views of the colorful foliage, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rivers. The best time to visit is from late September to mid-October.

3. Acadia National Park Loop Road

Acadia National Park is located on the coast of Maine and offers some of the most spectacular views of the fall colors. The 27-mile Loop Road takes visitors through the park's most scenic areas, including Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and Thunder Hole. The best time to visit is from late September to mid-October.

4. Mohawk Trail

The Mohawk Trail isa historic route that spans from the Berkshires to the Connecticut River Valley in Massachusetts. The scenic drive offers stunning views of the changing foliage, rolling hills, and picturesque towns. The best time to visit is from mid-September to mid-October.

No matter which route you choose, be sure to plan ahead and check for peak foliage times in the area. Additionally, consider taking side trips to explore charming small towns, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. With its breathtaking views and charming culture, a fall foliage road trip in New England is an unforgettable experience.

When choosing your accommodations, be sure to book early, as fall is a popular time for tourists in the New England region. Whether you prefer a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious hotel, or a rustic cabin, there are plenty of options to choose from. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the week instead of on weekends. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can experience the beauty of New England's fall foliage and create memories that will last a lifetime.

And there you have it, dear leaf peepers! A veritable treasure trove of New England's most enchanting fall foliage destinations, just waiting for you to grab your coziest sweater and embark on a kaleidoscopic adventure. From the rugged coastlines to the quaint villages and majestic mountains, there's a world of vibrant color tucked into every corner of this charming region.

Go forth and frolic amidst the fiery hues of autumn, as you create memories that will warm your heart long after the last leaf has fallen. Just don't forget to take a moment, breathe in the crisp air, and let the magic of New England's fall foliage weave its spell over you.

More to read:

The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Ultimate One Week Fall Foliage Itinerary for New England

Best Places for Fall Foliage: Towns, Farms, and Festivals

Best Places for Fall in New Hampshire

Best Places for Fall in Vermont

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Road Trip: New England Fall Foliage + Best Time to Visit

The experience of a fall foliage road trip in New England is nothing short of magical. As summer gives way to autumn, the landscape transforms dramatically, with forests donning a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and golds. 

Each twist and turn of the road reveals a new tapestry of colors from the tranquil hues reflected in quiet lakes and rivers. This seasonal event eagerly awaited and deeply cherished, transcends mere sightseeing—it’s an annual rite of passage, making a New England road trip a quintessential American experience in the fall.

Below are some of the most popular New England fall foliage drives. 

Kancamagus Scenic Byway (New Hampshire)

Peak Fall Foliage: First Two Weeks of October

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway , often called “The Kanc,” is a 56-mile route that winds through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. One of the best places in the United States to witness fall foliage, the drive offers unforgettable colors, from vibrant reds to golden yellows and deep oranges. Numerous overlooks, such as the famous Sabbaday Falls, provide panoramic views and opportunities to take short hikes deeper into the wilderness.

Route 100 (Vermont)

Peak Fall Foliage: Late September – October

Route 100 in Vermont is often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in New England, particularly stunning during the fall foliage season. The road stretches approximately 216 miles from the Massachusetts border to Canada, passing through charming villages and farms. Covered bridges, waterfalls, and local farmers’ markets along the route offer delightful stops to fully absorb the splendor of Vermont’s fall foliage.

Scenic Route 7A (Vermont)

Peak Fall Foliage: Early October

Scenic Route 7A in Vermont is a picturesque byway that traverses the state’s southwestern region, offering a beautiful backdrop of New England’s fall foliage. This drive, a quieter alternative to the main U.S. Route 7, takes you through quaint towns like Manchester and Arlington, where colonial architecture is beautifully set against hillsides. Covered bridges, antique shops, and historic landmarks pepper the drive, allowing you to combine your love for fall foliage with a bit of exploring.

Acadia National Park Loop (Maine)

Peak Fall Foliage: October 13th – 22nd

Acadia National Park in Maine offers a unique blend of coastal and forested landscapes, making its 27-mile Park Loop Road a must-see destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. The rich tapestry of colors includes vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges that contrast strikingly against the deep blue backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. 

The route provides plenty of overlooks and stops, such as the iconic Cadillac Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and forest enveloped in autumn’s embrace. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or driving, the changing leaves of the park’s varied tree species—ranging from maple and birch to oak and pine—create a display that makes Acadia National Park a unique and unforgettable fall destination.

Old Canada Road – U.S. Route 201 (Maine)

Peak Fall Foliage: Late September – Early October

Old Canada Road , or U.S. Route 201, offers a compelling journey through the heart of Maine’s stunning wilderness, particularly captivating during the fall foliage. This 78-mile stretch of road winds alongside the Kennebec River, creating a vibrant panorama where autumn leaves’ golden and russet hues reflect off the water’s surface. 

The route takes you through historic towns, past old logging camps, and offers numerous scenic overlooks perfect for capturing the splendor of Maine’s fall foliage.

Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts) 

Peak Fall Foliage: Mid-to-Late September – Early October

The Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts is one of the oldest auto-touring roads in the country and offers an exceptional showcase of New England’s autumn colors. Spanning about 69 miles from Greenfield to Williamstown, the trail winds through the scenic Berkshires, offering a range of vistas from towering cliffs to sprawling valleys, all adorned in vivid shades of orange, red, and gold. 

Popular stops along the route, like the “Hairpin Turn,” provide panoramic views that capture the essence of fall at a glance. Rich in natural beauty and cultural history, including Native American and colonial sites, the Mohawk Trail offers a complete and enriching fall foliage experience in Massachusetts.

Route 6A, Old King’s Highway (Massachusetts)

Route 6A in Massachusetts, known as the Old King’s Highway , offers a unique fall foliage experience as it winds through Cape Cod. Unlike the mountainous terrains often associated with autumn colors, this coastal route features a blend of salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and deciduous trees that don vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues. 

Historic homes, some dating back to the 17th century, charming inns, and quaint shops line the road, creating a picturesque backdrop accentuated by fall colors. While the ocean views are a constant allure, the changing leaves add a seasonal charm that makes Route 6A a special place to explore during autumn.

Catskill Scenic Byway (New York)

Peak Fall Foliage: Mid-October

The Catskill Scenic Byway in New York is a 52-mile route that takes you through the heart of the Catskill Mountains, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, valleys, and waterways adorned in autumn’s vibrant colors. As the leaves turn, the route becomes a panorama of brilliant reds, golds, and oranges punctuated by the evergreen pines and spruces that make up the Catskill forest. The byway offers numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and historic sites, such as the Catskill Interpretive Center, providing opportunities to stretch your legs and soak in the scenic views. 

Taconic State Parkway (New York)

Peak Fall Foliage: Mid-September – October

The Taconic State Parkway in New York offers one of the most scenic drives in the Hudson Valley, particularly beautiful when autumn rolls around. Stretching over 90 miles, this parkway is flanked by deciduous trees that transform into a riot of red, orange, and yellow colors.

Numerous overlooks and pull-offs along the way offer opportunities to pause and take in the grandeur of the season, capturing photos or simply enjoying a moment in nature’s spectacle. With its gentle curves and hilly terrain, the Taconic State Parkway offers a drive as engaging as it is visually stunning, making it a perfect route for fall foliage viewing in New York.

Delaware Water Gap (Pennsylvania)

Peak Fall Foliage: Mid-to-Late October

A Delaware Water Gap fall foliage road trip in Pennsylvania is like a scenic journey through a natural gallery of colors. As you traverse the roads that curve around the Delaware River and cut through the Pocono Mountains, you’re treated to a stunning display of Mother Nature’s autumnal beauty.

The Water Gap offers more than just a visual spectacle; numerous pull-offs, overlooks, and trailheads along the way beckon you to stop, explore, and fully immerse yourself in the autumn scenery. If you’re keen on hiking, trails like Mount Minsi offer more challenging climbs with rewarding views. For a more relaxed experience, Dingmans Falls Visitor Center provides easy walking trails that lead to gorgeous waterfalls. 

Route 6 (Pennsylvania)

Peak Fall Foliage: Late September – Early November

A fall foliage road trip along Pennsylvania’s historic Route 6 is a journey through a corridor of seasonal splendor. This highway stretches across the state’s northern tier and is often referred to as one of America’s most scenic drives.

Route 6 is also rich with opportunities for adventure and exploration. In the Allegheny National Forest, you can go hiking, fishing, or camping amidst fall foliage. Visit the Kinzua Sky Walk for a panoramic view that lets you look down through a glass-floored observation deck to the forest below, cloaked in its autumnal glory. Further east, you could stop at the charming town of Wellsboro, often described as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” for some local dining and shopping. 

Merritt Parkway (Connecticut)

Navigating the Merritt Parkway during Connecticut’s autumn season offers a compelling synthesis of historic architecture and natural splendor. Designed in the late 1930s, this historic scenic byway is renowned for its Art Deco and neo-classical bridges.

Adjacent municipalities like Greenwich, Stamford, and Fairfield offer attractions ranging from upscale shopping districts to art galleries and museums. Outdoor enthusiasts may consider detouring to state parks such as the Sleeping Giant State Park for hiking opportunities that provide panoramic views of the fall foliage.

Connecticut River Loop (Connecticut)

The Connecticut River Loop is an exceptional scenic byway for observing the spectacle of New England’s fall foliage—the loop traverses along the Connecticut River, from farmlands to rolling hills and riverfronts. The route meanders through several historic towns, such as Essex, Old Lyme, and East Haddam.

For those inclined towards the arts, the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme is a cultural landmark, showcasing American Impressionist paintings that often capture the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts may explore the Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, where hiking trails offer commanding views of the river and surrounding foliage. The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat is another popular attraction; it provides a unique opportunity to view the fall scenery from a vintage train and a riverboat.

Ocean Drive, Newport (Rhode Island)

Peak Fall Foliage: October

Ocean Drive in Newport, Rhode Island , offers a blend of coastal beauty and historic elegance, incredibly captivating during the fall foliage season. This scenic route, the Ten-Mile Drive, skirts the Atlantic Ocean and weaves through some of Newport’s most storied neighborhoods.

Several famed Newport Mansions, such as The Breakers and Marble House, are open for public tours and provide a fascinating look into the Gilded Age. For those interested in maritime history, a detour to the Museum of Yachting at Fort Adams State Park is highly recommended. The park offers hiking and picnicking opportunities amidst fall foliage and panoramic views of Narragansett Bay. For those inclined towards gastronomy, the drive is near Newport’s downtown, where an array of restaurants offer fresh seafood.

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park (New Jersey)

The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park in New Jersey offers an idyllic setting for a fall foliage road trip, combining natural splendor and historical significance. Stretching for more than 70 miles, this linear park encompasses the Delaware and Raritan Canal and the adjacent towpath and runs parallel to the scenic Delaware River.

The towpath along the canal is ideal for various recreational activities, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, all set against the vibrant fall foliage. For those interested in angling, the canal is stocked with fish and offers a peaceful setting for fishing. History enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s historical markers and 19th-century bridges and lock-tender houses, which provide insight into the canal’s role in shaping regional commerce. Moreover, nearby towns such as Lambertville and Princeton offer boutique shopping, art galleries, and restaurants ranging from quaint cafes to fine dining.

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Featured Photo Credit: [@jovannig/DepositPhotos]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

Where to View the Best Fall Colors in New England

Posted by Sarah Lamagna November 03, 2021 Updated January 16, 2024

Fall colors – Leaf peepin’ is a cultural pastime in the Northeast. So grab your flannel and your Dunkin’ coffee, and head up to New England for a classic autumn experience.

One of the best things about autumn in New England is how long fall foliage lasts. Unlike with the Pacific Northwest’s larch trees or Colorado’s famed aspens, New England’s trees change over the course of six weeks, or sometimes longer depending on weather and rainfall. Colors usually start changing in northern Maine by late September and last — at least in the southern coastal areas — through mid-November.

Fortunately, there are hundreds of drives and hikes for guests who want to view the region’s famous fall colors. And as a bonus, many of those hikes and drives pass jaw-dropping mountain backdrops and travel through picturesque covered-bridges and quaint small towns.

I’ve lived in many places throughout my 30-something years, including British Columbia, the Adirondacks, and Colorado, all destinations unique and incredible in their own way come fall. But nothing can compare to New England’s fall colors and the endless hues of reds, oranges, purples, and yellows. For the best fall foliage in New England, read on.

Related Read:   12 Best Spots to See New York’s Fall Foliage

New England Fall Foliage: Where and When

What is the best time to see fall colors in New England?

Folks, climate change is real and unfortunately brings with it droughts and extreme weather. That can drastically change when the peak viewing times are each year, as well as how vibrant the colors are. If it’s an unusually dry summer, fall colors will peak earlier than normal. So book those quaint B&Bs with that in mind.

What are the best places to see fall colors in New England?

As far as where to begin your journey through New England’s best fall foliage, go with Maine. Northern Maine (and New Hampshire’s Great North Woods) are where fall colors first start to appear in early October. From Maine, head inland to central Vermont and the Green Mountains, the Lakes Region in New Hampshire, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts. Late-season fall colors are usually in the more southern states including Connecticut and Rhode Island, but also in coastal areas of Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

Related Read:   12 Best Spots to See Pennsylvania’s Fall Foliage

There is no right or wrong way to view the autumn foliage of Maine. Here are some of our top picks. For more ideas, check our article on the best places to see foliage in Maine .

1. Baxter State Park

Why you should go: To view an endless sea of colors from the top of Maine.

• Location: Millinocket
• Peak foliage: Mid-September to early October

There are over 200,000 acres of pure wilderness within Baxter State Park, including Maine’s highest peak. Mount Katahdin might signal the end of the Appalachian Trail, but it also marks the beginning of your fall foliage marathon throughout New England. The trail isn’t for the faint of heart and is known for being steep and challenging. Autumn is notorious for quickly-changing weather conditions and potential snowstorms, so keep an eye out and pack a rain layer if you go. But from the top, the views are incredible.

If your legs aren’t up for the trek to the top, you won’t be hurting for hiking options at lower elevations within the park, which also pass some of New England’s best fall foliage.

Related Read:   9 Must-See Waterfalls in Maine You Can Hike To

2. Town of Bethel

Why you should go: For the best secret spots to see fall colors on foot.  

• Location: Bethel
• Peak foliage: Late September to early October

The western interior of Maine is quite close to White Mountain National Forest , which is usually overrun with visitors from out of town. The small town of Bethel, however, has fabulous views of Whites without the hordes of tourists.

The town is a great basecamp as it’s easy to access to several perfect fall foliage spots within Grafton Notch State Park . To make it easy on you: the best ones are Gulf Hagas , Mother Walker Falls , Screw Auger Falls , and Moose Cave.

Related Read: The 14 Best Places to Visit in October in the U.S.

3. Acadia National Park

Why you should go: For rocky cliffs and stormy seas against a backdrop of brilliant colors.

• Location: Bar Harbor
• Peak foliage: Mid-to-late October

Nowhere represents the Maine aesthetic more than Acadia National Park . There’s a reason the region was snatched up by the U.S. Park Service, forever protecting it for future generations. The visuals are stunning: imagine the windblown Atlantic Ocean crashing into rugged and unforgiving cliffs. It’s lovely in photos, but nothing compares to seeing it in real life.

And fortunately, Acadia is also home to some of the best fall foliage in New England. Seeing the bright colors of autumn foliage against the already striking landscape is truly something to behold. For the best views from the best hikes , head out on the Precipice Trail or watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain .

Related Read:  12 Best National Parks to Visit in October

New Hampshire

There’s nothing like the striking assortment of colors in the Granite State specifically. Even as a writer, I struggle to find the right words to describe the New Hampshire fall colors . Here are some top picks.

4. The Great North Woods

Why you should go: For the best chances at viewing amazing fall colors and amazingly large moose.

• Location: Colebrook, Columbia, or Pittsburg (among others)

If wildlife is what you’re after, look no further than New Hampshire’s Great North Woods . The woods’ remoteness both keeps the crowds at bay and encourages wildlife to freely roam. Unlike the White Mountains’ rocky terrain, the Great North Woods encompasses hundreds of thousands of acres of forests with wetlands dotted between.

It’s an ideal habitat for moose and other wildlife, which thrive in the area. Due to its size, you might not get a chance to see the entirety of the Great North Woods, so if you’re limited on time, prioritize the route along Moose Alley .

Related Read:   Fall Foliage 101: Why Do Leaves Change Colors in the Fall?

5. The Kancamagus Highway

Why you should go: For unique, fun pit stops through the beautiful White Mountain National Forest.

• Location: North Conway to Lincoln
• Peak foliage: Early to mid-October

Don’t expect a secluded drive on the Kancamagus Highway, especially on weekends. The Kank, as the locals call it, attracts thousands of visitors and hundreds of tour buses annually. And for good reason: the drive itself is absolutely stunning and the pull-offs along the way are even better. Some of the best spots to stop are Sabbaday Falls , Lower Falls , Rocky Gorge , or the Pemigewasset and Sugar Hill overlooks.

Related Read: 10 Best Places to Visit in the Fall Across the U.S.

6. The Lakes Region

Why you should go: For twice the color: fall foliage on land and reflected in the water.

• Location: Meredith and Wolfeboro (among others)

Say farewell to kayaking and canoe season in the best way possible: with a float along one of central New Hampshire’s many lakes. The lakes are an easy subject for novice or expert photographers, thanks in part to the vibrancy of the leaves on the still water. Early mornings usually bring a crisp fog that never quite hits the water’s surface, creating an eerily beautiful sensation across the ripples. But even the fog can’t drown out the saturated hues of the hardwood trees that circle most of the lakes in the region. Bring a wide-angle lens (and a warm jacket if you’re doing a morning paddle).

Related read:   10 Things to Do in the Fall in New Hampshire

The Best Fall Foliage in Vermont

7. town of montgomery.

Why you should go: More covered bridges than you can count on one hand.

• Location: Montgomery
• Peak foliage: Mid-to-late September

Okay — maybe there aren’t more covered bridges than you can count  technically, but the town of Montgomery is the Covered Bridge capital of Vermont, so you’ll at least need two hands. The town earns the title due to the six covered bridges within city limits, plus the one the border with nearby Enosburg.

Decades ago, there were actually 13 covered bridges, built over the town’s many streams and rivers, but some have been replaced with more modern bridges. Montgomery also tops many of the lists of best fall foliage towns in New England, so don’t skip this one — and don’t forget to grab some apple cider (or an apple cider donut) from the Montgomery Place Orchards farm stand.

Related Read:   6 Free Camping Spots in Vermont

8. Mad River Byway

Why you should go: To cruise through quaint villages and experience the definition of small-town charm.

• Location: Middlesex to Warren

The Mad River Byway is one of the most scenic byways in the Green Mountain State and shouldn’t be missed if passing through in the fall. As you follow the Mad River along Route 100, you’ll pass cute towns like Waitsfield, Warren, Moretown, and more. Come fall, each town turns into a beautiful autumnal wonderland, with stunning backdrops of foliage against churches, memorials, historic buildings, and red barns. Give yourself plenty of time to make pit stops since it’ll take you the whole day to complete the 39 miles. It’s not a drive you want to rush.

9. The Shires of Vermont Byway

Why you should go: To search for hobbits fall foliage in southern Vermont.

• Location: Manchester to Bennington

No, this isn’t that Shire (any “Lord of the Rings” fans out there?), but it might as well be. The surrounding forest along the drive looks like it may be hiding a hobbit or two, but one thing it won’t be hiding is fall foliage. The vibrant autumn colors are easy to spot.

The Shires region is in southwestern Vermont along the historic route 7A. You’ll pass through 17 towns along the way, and each is worthy of a stop over. Be sure to make a stop at Bennington’s 306-foot-tall Bennington Battle Monument . You can see views for miles of the Green Mountain National Forest from the top.

The Best Fall Foliage in Massachusetts

10. mohawk trail.

Why you should go: A relaxing drive through the heart of the Berkshire Mountains.

• Location: North Adams
• Peak foliage: Early-to-mid October

The road along the Mohawk Trail used to be a busy trade route for the Indigenous communities that called this area home. It’s now a 63-mile scenic route through the Berkshire counties of Massachusetts. The best place to get out of your car is at the Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charlemont. It’s where you’ll find the state’s largest old-growth forest, filled with maple, birch, beech, and ash trees. It’s the perfect recipe for a New England fall foliage-viewing roadtrip.

11. Route 6A

Why you should go: Tour fall foliage in beachside towns without the summer crowds.

• Location: Sagamore to Brewster

Cape Cod is a tourist destination in the summer, but it’s a seaside dream in the fall. Take Route 6A from the Sagamore Bridge (which crosses over the Cape Code Canal) to reach some of New England’s best fall foliage towns, including the Cape’s oldest: Sandwich. When you get to Brewster, make sure to check out Nickerson State Park . You can bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail or take an easy walk along one of the many trails past the area’s ponds.

The Best Fall Foliage in Connecticut

12. gillette castle state park.

Why you should go: See fall foliage against the backdrop of a legitimate historical castle.

• Location: Lyme
• Peak foliage: Mid-October to early November

It might be the birthplace of a tick-borne disease, but the town of Lyme also has some good things going for it, including the historic Gillette Castle . The medieval-looking marvel sits atop the “Seventh Sister” hill (there are six others along the mountain chain). It was built by the actor, director, and playwright William Hooker Gillette.

The state purchased the estate in 1943 as Gillette himself wanted. He knew how beautiful the grounds and home were and even put in his will that he didn’t want the land controlled by “some blithering saphead who has no conception of where he is or with what surrounded.”  And it’s true. The land surrounding the castle is quite beautiful, especially when the surrounding acreage turns orange and red. You can tour the castle on select weekends in the fall, which is a nice offering for non-hikers or history buffs. Just make sure you’re not one of those “blithering sapheads” that doesn’t know true beauty when you see it.

13. Litchfield Hills Region

Why you should go: It’s where you’ll find the “mountains” of Connecticut (and a pretty nice waterfall).

• Location: New Milford to North Canaan

Take a drive along Route 7 in Connecticut’s northwestern region along the Housatonic River. The road is lined with rolling hills and dense, hardwood forests. You can stop and stretch your legs at one of the many natural wonders along the route including Pond Mountain Natural Area or Kent Falls State Park, neither of which is ever too crowded (at least by New England fall foliage standards).

The route is also somewhat known for it’s quirky antique shops, so consider making a few stops if you like vintage items. It’s actually part of the Connecticut Antique Trail , which has maps and suggested routes passing the best stores.

The Best Fall Foliage in Rhode Island

14. blithewold mansion, gardens, and arboretum.

Why you should go: Massive gardens in a tiny state not exactly known for endless forests.

• Location: Bristol

Built by the Van Wickles, a wealthy Rhode Island couple who were both born into money and made even more money in coal, the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum is a perfect place to take in the fall colors. The historical home dates to the 1890s and is open for tours.

Be sure to spend time in the arboretum. It’s incredible year-round, but especially in the fall. The former owners planted exotic trees well-loved by visitors for decades. Stone fountains dot the grounds and the incredible architecture will make you feel as if you’re in a Jane Austen novel. The bright fall foliage scattered across the property’s 33 acres is just the icing on the cake.

15. Blackstone Valley

Why you should go: Take your pick between hiking, biking, and kayaking beneath fall foliage.

• Location: North of Providence

There are no shortages of natural areas offering spectacular fall colors in and around Blackstone Valley , in the northern part Rhode Island. There isn’t an exact route to take; it’s more of a region you can explore at your leisure. The region is recognized as the “birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution” but is now known for its plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Lincoln Woods State Park has 627 acres of forests and trails ranging from family-friendly to heart-pumping. You can look for wildlife in the 2,000-acre reserve at Buck Hill Management Area, or kayak along the Blackstone River in the Canal Heritage State Park . There are plenty of ways to see fall foliage in the area without having to do any long road trips.

Explore More in New England

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Posted by Sarah Lamagna

Sarah is an ecologist-turned-freelance writer specializing in the ecotourism and slow/sustainable travel industry. Her bylines include The Denver Post, 5280 magazine, VeryWellFamily, Matador Network, and was an expert on NPR’s The Takeaway for her work on the wildfires in Colorado.

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• 2024 Fall Foliage Color Map: When is Peak Foliage?

When Do the Fall Leaf Colors Change?

Prepare for leaf-peeping season! When will the fall colors reach their peak? Find out with our 2024 fall foliage map! Plus, here’s a list of 21 great places to see autumn’s colors.

When Do Fall Leaves Change Color?

Leaves can change their color from as early as mid-September all the way through early November. Typically, the second and third week of October are the peak times, but it shifts depending on where you live and your local weather conditions.

• Foliage starts to change in the northern-tier states out West and in the Midwest by late September. By October 4, the leaves in some areas will be past their prime. 
• Much of New England as well as the Pacific Northwest, will be at or near peak fall color by October 11. 
• A little further south in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it looks like mid-October is your best bet.

Fall Foliage Color Map

Below is an animated map showing the progression of fall colors across the U.S. based on foliage reports from Almanac readers. Of course, past results do not necessarily indicate what will happen this year, but it should give you a fairly good idea of how fall leaves typically progress. In this depiction, yellow marks the beginning of foliage season, orange and red are peak season, and brown is past peak.

Read Next

Why do leaves change color in the fall, the month of october 2024: holidays, fun facts, folklore, glacier national park, where do the fall leaves change color.

Here are some of the best places to see fall foliage in the United States. Perhaps some of these destinations are near you! We welcome your tips on other great places to see fall’s colors. Please comment below.

• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Ozark Mountains, Arkansas
• Adirondack and Catskill Mountains, New York
• Traverse City, Michigan
• Black Hills, South Dakota
• Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
• Kancamagus Highway, White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Pere Marquette State Park, Illinois
• Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Connecticut River Valley, S.E.  Connecticut
• Logan Canyon Scenic Byway, Utah
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Buckhorn Lake State Park, Kentucky
• Vogel State Park and Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia
• Door County, Wisconsin
• Poconos, Pennsylvania
• Green Mountain Byway, Vermont
• Gatlinburg & Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
• The Berkshires, Massachusetts
• Taos, New Mexico

What is Fall Foliage?

“Foliage” simply refers to the leaves of a tree or plant. “Fall,” of course, refers to the  Autumnal Equinox when the day length shortens (marking toward the shortest day of the year: the Winter Solstice ).

“Fall foliage” is the time when the leaves start changing colors from green to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. However, here are a couple of surprises:

• Those vivid leaf colors were actually hidden underneath the green all along! As sunlight decreases and cold increases, tree growth slows, and the production of green chlorophyll in their leaves begins to slow, revealing fall leaves’ brilliant yellow, orange, and red.
• Not all tree leaves change color. It’s “deciduous trees” (oak, birch, beech) with broad leaves that show off those gorgeous reds, yellows, oranges, and even purples.

Want to read more about fall leaves? Check out this article: Why Do Leaves Change Color?  

How Weather Affects Leaf Color

Another important part of leaf-peeping is knowing the right time to go! For the best experience, not only should leaves be near their peak colors, but the weather should be agreeable, too. 

• Avoid rainy, windy days, when the leaves (and you) will be soggy. Strong wind in late fall can even result in prematurely bare trees, so keep that in mind while planning.
• Some say that a lightly overcast day actually improves the colors of the leaves , making them pop against the somber skies. 
• Others prefer to bask in autumn’s brilliance under blue skies and full sun—and we can’t say we blame them!

Now, you’re ready to enjoy the fall colors. Share your leaf-peeping tips in the comments!

Catherine Boeckmann

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I strongly believe you should add Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is way too beautiful

Do not travel to the Ozarks in Missouri unless dried up brown leaves from drought appeals to your taste best? As of the 25th of Oct, rain has reached us and soon in a few days colder weather. Winds have increased. This is kind of typical annual weather, and with early leaf falls from drought and now windy conditions, I would venture to say Leaves will be over after this weekend, largely so in Missouri. Another disappointing season for color enthusiast, maybe the jet stream won't dip ? Best bets in Missouri are in and around sheltered by steep hills wooded areas, low lying and near water Hickory Canyons, probably a mix of colors like few places ...but it too extremely dry

It just finished raining here in Southeastern Connecticut...

This Monday through Thursday October 16th through the 19th should be a great time to visit the "Quiet Corner" of Connecticut and South... Coming in on Route 169 from Massachusetts (Southbound and off the major highway...) will take you through Sturbridge, MA, Woodstock CT, past Thompson and North Grosvenordale, into Pomfret, which will have the best Foliage for the week. If you're antiquing or an architecture buff... these will be "must stops"... If you just want foliage... keep going south and get on country Route 44 (East) to connect with historic Route 12 in Putnam.

Route 12 will take you through the small New England towns of Brooklyn, Canterbury and Lisbon. Then, continuing on rural Route 12, it will take you into Norwich, Ledyard, Gales Ferry then Groton (Where they make the Submarines... This last leg takes you down the rural highway the runs along the east side of the Thames River and into New London.

Southern New England offers some great foliage peeking and once you are on the shore... Terrific New England Seafood...! Worcester Mass to New London Connecticut, only takes about two and a half hours to travel on the back roads via Rts. 169, Rt. 44 and Rt. 12... It's the best way to see the Foliage and Old New England!

Then, for your ride back North, you could head over to Rhode Island and Back North on

We just went to Acadia in Maine. I can assure you the fall foliage was underwhelming to say the least. No brilliant colors, lots of trees that had 1/2 the leaves gone and what was left was brown or drab green. Pretty disappointing for most of Maine this year due to all the rain

Brockway Mountain in Copper Harbor Michigan. Half Lake Superior and Half Trees....it is breathtaking!!

Brown County State Park in Brown County, Indiana is unbelievably beautiful in the fall.

Letchworth State Park in Western New York. Basically my backyard, beautiful waterfalls and fall foliage!

LOVE THIS PARK. I LIVE IN BUFFALO AND TRY TO VISIT A FEW TIMES A YEAR.

In Vermont, as I live there, There are so many tour busses from the heavy populated places, are something to watch out for. See many in restaurants. It's a money season for the state and local businesses. Usually the rule of thumb is Columbus Day Oct 10 is the peak time, but northern VT, is about past prime. Also not mentioned, there is a certain smell in the air of the foliage season that's electrifying, beautiful. It's predictable, around mid October, it's the changing of the season dictated by high winds and heavy rains stripping the trees of the dead leaves. Followed shortly by snow.

You left out The Fourth of July Canyon outside of Albuquerque NM. It was named that because of the beautiful colors from the big tooth maples that grow in this micro climate. Not to be missed! Pack up your picnic baskets and go!

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New England Fall Foliage: When and Where to Follow the Leaves

While springtime brings blossoms and summer has its day in the sun, New England fall foliage is the region’s true culminating event. Every fall, the hills, valleys and coastlines explode into a resplendent kingdom of mellow gold, deep red, and bright orange foliage. As the air gets crisper and the leaves start to change, New Englanders celebrate their harvest and come together in preparation for winter. Fall is perhaps the most festive time to visit New England and join in the celebration while marveling at the vibrant grand finale on display by Mother Nature. Fall foliage in New England doesn’t develop in every corner of the region at once, however, so it’s important to know what areas make for the best leaf peeping at a given time. Read on for our guide on where to go and when to go to experience the best of New England fall foliage.

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Late September Fall Foliage - Burlington and the Champlain Valley

As you might expect, the leaves change colors earlier in colder climates and in the mountains. If you’re looking to head to New England in late September, aim for the northern reaches of the area for the best fall foliage. The colors really pop in late September in Burlington, Vermont, and the surrounding area. Spend a few nights based in Burlington, taking time to enjoy sunsets over Lake Champlain and hikes up Mount Mansfield or Camel’s Hump. Country roads make for amazing bike rides and a trip to bucolic Shelburne Farm is a chance to take part in fall harvest traditions. Burlington hotels  abound, but it’s best to book early as Vermont fall foliage is no secret. If you've got the time, make your way down the I-89 corridor for a stay in Stowe, following the peak season on its pilgrimage south.

Early October Fall Foliage - Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Vermont’s least developed corner swells in size each autumn with a five-town fall foliage festival circuit. This moveable feast lasts through the first week in October, moving from Cabot to Plainfield to Peacham to Barnet, before capping it all off with a famous Chicken Pie Supper in Groton. Reservations for the supper are a must. Choose one or two towns where the dates and locations work for you, and enjoy activities like hayrides, group hikes, wine tastings, foliage tours, and an Old Fashion Hymn Sing. Spend your nights at the Inn at Mountain View Farm in East Burke, the Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville, or the Rabbit Hill Inn near Saint Johnsbury. You’ll soon see why the New York Times named the Northeast Kingdom one of the “1,000 Places to See Before You Die."

New Hampshire’s White Mountains are also a great choice for leaf peeping in late September and early October. The high altitudes of this northern region makes for an early season foliage peak, and North Conway or Jackson, NH, are colorful places to take it all in. Hike or drive up to the top of Mount Washington for seemingly endless views of mountains blanketed in color. Stay at the Omni Mount Washington Resort  or at one of the many other lodging options in Jackson, New Hampshire.

Mid-October Fall Foliage - Massachusetts Route 2 and The Berkshires

As the season progresses, the autumnal color show comes down from the mountains and into the geographic center of New England. Just a quick trip from Boston or New York, fall foliage in Western Massachusetts peaks in mid-October. Those arriving from Boston can meander along the scenic Route 2 highway all the way to the western reaches of Massachusetts. Get away to North Adams for a stay at The Porches Inn , the perfect launching point for taking in modern art at Mass MoCA or exploring the famous flowering bridge and surrounding scenery of Shelburne Falls.

South of the Route 2 corridor you'll find a string of quaint New England towns whose charm shines brightly in the hues of golden October. In addition to rolling hills and long views, window shoppers will love the buzzing downtowns replete with antique shops, artisan crafts, and autumn harvest farmers markets. Stay in  historic Lenox, MA , or try the Red Lion Inn in downtown Stockbridge. Spend mornings strolling the town centers and afternoons in the foliage flanked October Mountain State Forest .

Late October Fall Foliage: Southern Connecticut

Late October may be past peak in some places, but it’s the perfect time for a New England fall foliage adventure in the southeastern corner of the region. East Haddam, Connecticut, was recently named a Top Foliage Town by Yankee Magazine for its splendid colors that surround Bashan Lake and the Moodus Reservoir. Spend a day taking in the late October foliage at Devil’s Hopyard State Park, then take in an evening show at the Goodspeed Opera House. This historic opera house is an architectural marvel with sweeping views of the Connecticut River. Take in musicals like Fiddler on the Roof or Damn Yankees and stay at the Griswold Inn in nearby Essex or the Old Lyme Inn in Old Lyme, CT.

Regardless of the week, there are incredible fall foliage experiences to be had in New England. Choose one spot and target a peak week, or follow the season around like your favorite band on tour. No matter how you do it, take time to get out into the woods, take a deep breath of crisp autumn air, and marvel in the majesty of this treasured New England season.

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New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  January 9, 2024

The Best Time To Visit New England In 2024 + A Month By Month Guide

Planning a trip to New England and overwhelmed by when to visit? I totally get it, and you’ve come to the absolute right place to help you decide! Between stunning and dramatic coastal landscapes, mountain regions, and exciting cities, this region of the country really has it all during every season, and choosing a time to visit can seem, well … daunting.

Hi! My name is Sam, and I’ve been traveling throughout New England for over 15 years, and I’ve been all over this region during all of the seasons. So, I’m here to guide you on what the best time to visit New England is for your trip. Throughout the post, I’ll be sharing some tips for visiting, too, like the cheapest and most expensive times to visit, when to visit for seasonal activities, and lots more.

With that, let’s help you decide when you’re coming to New England!

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So, When Is The Best Time To Visit New England? A Quick Guide

Okay, here’s the deal: there’s no one time that’s best for visiting New England, and that’s because the four-season climate makes it pretty great year-round. Picking the best time to visit will depend entirely on what you want to focus on during your visit , the weather you’re hoping for, your budget, and the regions you want to visit.

Here are some general breakdowns to give you an idea of when to visit:

Generally, May – September is the best time to visit overall if you’re looking for mild or warm weather. These are also great months to take a road trip through the entire region, or along the coastline.

July and August are the best times to visit the coastal or summery destinations, including Cape Cod, Maine’s coastline, Rhode Island, and pretty much any beach town if you’re wanting the most authentic summer experience. July and August have the best and warmest weather for beach days, and all seasonal businesses will open.

June and September are shoulder months for the popular beach and coastal regions. They’re not quite as crowded as July and August, but are gaining popularity and not as quiet as they used to be – especially late June and early September. But if you’re hoping for a mix of summery weather and want to avoid some crowds, this is an ideal time to visit.

October is when you want to visit for fall foliage throughout most of New England, especially popular places in Vermont, Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. Expect to pay top-dollar to travel to foliage hot-spots in October, and brace for the crowds. Is it worth it? Oh yes! There’s a reason New England is famous for its foliage!

December is, of course, the best time to visit for all things Christmas and the holidays.

January-March is the best time to visit for a winter wonderland or ski vacation. While ski resorts open as early as November in some areas, I recommend not booking a winter trip until after the New Year when it’s snowing more consistently, and you’re more likely to get that idyllic, wintery scenery.

My Personal Favorite Months To Suggest A Visit

May, early June , and September if you’re looking for nice, mild weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds, especially at top coastal and beach destinations. May will be the chillier of these times to visit, but usually the least crowded of these suggestions. I often travel around the area in May to save some money, and enjoy places with fewer people.

But, I really do love July and August for a beach-focused trip like Cape Cod, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, or coastal Maine. I honestly think summer in New England is such a cool experience and worth braving the crowds for (and this is coming from someone who doesn’t like crowds!).

October for fall foliage is hard to beat!

Honorable mention : I really love New England in November ! Because the region is transitioning from fall to winter, many hotels and resorts offer amazing deals, and this is not a super busy month for tourists. In fact, it’s usually rather quiet in November before Thanksgiving, and a lot of places will offer super discounted hotel rates during Thanksgiving week/weekend.

Visiting New England: Seasonal & Month-By-Month Guide

Okay, now that you have a general idea of when to visit, let’s get into a month-by-month breakdown. In this section, I’ll share what to expect each month in terms of weather and general activities, as well as budget considerations.

New England In The Winter

Overall, winter in New England is typically what you’d expect, with one recent exception. Over the last few years, especially, this region has been impacted by global warming and the temperatures have slowly begun to trend higher. In fact, the winter season has seen the biggest jump in rising temperatures than any other season in New England.

So, I feel it’s important to be honest about what to expect during a winter trip, as experts are saying this is the new norm for the region. While there’s still a good chance it’ll be beautiful and snowy, there’s also a chance it could be warmer than you’re expecting. For example, the last three years during my own winter trips and getaways in New England, I’ve experienced a lot of days where it was cold and snowy, and other trips, it was almost 50°F and sunny in February.

Another example is the 2023-2024 ski season. Much of New England didn’t see a lot of snow (or any snow!) in December 2023, and it wasn’t until January that we started to see regular snow falls. With this trend of more extreme weather that can swing in either direction in the winter months, it’s good to set expectations and plan accordingly.

Okay, now that that’s out of the way, winter is obviously the perfect time to visit if you’re looking for a cold-weather getaway, and places up in the mountains are often a winter wonderland this time of the year.

Driving around New England in the winter is also a concern, but generally, safe . If you’re traveling in from another region, you’ll just want to be aware of weather reports, and choose to not drive during a significant snow fall or blizzard. However, snow plows run and lay down salt often, so driving is still pretty safe, even in the winter.

Where to go in New England in the winter:

• Any ski resort, with Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine having the best ones.
• Stowe, VT for an especially idyllic and quaint New England charm at a top ski resort in New England.
• White Mountains in New Hampshire for outdoor fun, cozy cabins, and stunning drives through the mountains.
• Kennebunkport, Maine for their Paint The Town Red festivities, cozy winter dining, and historic hotels.

Off-season winter recommendations for lower prices and fun things to do:

• Boston, MA for low hotel prices, and to visit the aquarium, take in a show, and enjoy the history.
• Portland, ME for low hotel prices, enjoy the museums, and dive into the culinary scene.
• Cape Cod – this region tends to have more mild weather compared to the rest of New England, and you’ll enjoy low hotel rates, stunning coastline, and scenic trails all to yourself.

New England In January

Average January Temperatures : 30°F during the day, 10-13°F at night*

January is a great month for outdoor winter sports, including skiing, and is usually the first month of the winter season that sees consistent, fresh snow on the slopes. January also has some of the shortest days of the year, but usually offers the most snow fall of the winter months. Snow fall changes from year to year, though, so it’s always good to check weather reports beforehand.

New England In February

Average February Temperatures: 33°F during the day, 14°F at night*

February starts to see longer days, but is still a great month for a winter wonderland vacation. Typically, the snow continues to fall, and ski resorts and winter activities are still in full swing.

With the Valentine’s Day holiday during this month, it’s also a great time to visit a fancy resort, spa, or book a cozy cabin in the mountains to celebrate.

In February, these are some of my favorite places for a romantic getaway:

• Kennbunkport, Maine
• Portland, Maine
• Chatham, MA to stay at the Chatham Bars Inn

New England In March

Average March Temperatures: 35-40°F during the day, 25°F at night*

March offers the warmest temperatures and the longest days of all the winter months, so if you’re looking to be outside as long as possible, March may be the best option for you. Higher elevation destinations in the mountains continue to see snow falls in March, but the lower elevations tend to see a decline in snow fall this month.

Mountain destinations will usually start to lower hotel rates later in the month, and many other places around New England are usually very reasonable around this time, too.

Here are some of my winter guides you may find helpful:

• Best New England Winter Getaways (Even If You Don’t Ski)
• Winter In Massachusetts
• Winter In New Hampshire
• Winter In Maine
• Winter In Vermont
• Winter On Cape Cod
• New England In The Spring

Spring in New England usually comes with finicky weather, but mid-May through mid-June are some of the best times to visit this region if you’re looking to avoid crowds, and are on more of a budget.

Generally, the first part of the season feels a lot like winter, especially late March. Once April hits, mud season is usually in full swing, which is the aftermath of all our winter snow melting for the year. But keep in mind, April can bring some snow, too! Once mud season is over in early-mid May, though, that’s when most places in the region are worth visiting.

Starting in April, spring flowers like daffodils are in bloom around New England (with a few places celebrating with spring festivals!), and u-pick tulip fields begin to open in May. More and more gardens also begin to open, and this is a great season to travel and avoid crowds.

Where to go in New England in the spring:

• Nantucket for the Daffodil Festival
• Newport, RI for Daffodil Day
• Woodstock, VT for their Baby Animal Days
• Brewster on Cape Cod for their Brewster in Bloom festival
• Boston for the tulips at the Public Gardens and cherry blossom trees
• Coastal Maine to beat summer crowds, and to see the lupines in bloom in June

New England In April

Average April Temperatures: 55°F during the day, 35°F at night*

April is much like November in that it’s a month of transition, and it’s one of the lowest tourist seasons in New England. Many ski resorts have, or plan to, close up for the season, but the weather isn’t quite nice enough for exploring a lot of outdoor attractions, depending on the day. The general scenery tends to still be pretty gray, especially early in the month.

That said, with the daffodils beginning to bloom in April, there are pockets of life and color around, and the odd nice day with warm, sunny weather. Generally, this is one of the cheapest times to visit the region.

April is also known as cherry blossom season in New England, and Boston and New Haven, CT are two wonderful places to see them. Boston also puts on a fantastic display of magnolia and pear trees that bloom in April, making it especially gorgeous this time of the year.

New England In May

May brings longer days and nicer weather after a usually rainy April season. While May does usually have some rain, there are often more days of sun and warm weather this month. This is also when the general scenery begins to really come back to life, with trees in bloom, flowers growing, and the grass turning back to green.

If you’re looking to travel to popular places around New England, especially the coastline or beaches, but you’re trying to save some money and don’t care about the weather or ocean water being super warm, I usually recommend booking a trip starting in mid May. You’ll save a good amount on hotel rates compared to the summer months, and prices continue to rise in June.

The one things to keep in mind is that some seasonal businesses along the coast and in beach towns, like seafood shacks, ice cream stands, and boat tour companies, may not open until Memorial Day weekend. But having traveled along the New England coastline a lot in May, I can tell you that you’ll always be able to find places that are open, so don’t let that worry you!

Average May Temperatures: 65°F during the day, 45°F at night*

New England In June

Average June Temperatures: 70-75°F during the day, 55-60°F at night*

June in New England is the first month of the year that it really feels like summer, and it tends to have perfect weather. While there’s still a chance of rain, there are usually more sunny and warm days than there were in May, but it’s not as hot as July and August. This is another great time to explore the coast and beach towns before the biggest crowds settle in.

One thing to keep in mind is that the later in June you book travel, the more expensive it will be. The first two weeks of June will have cheaper hotel rates than the last two weekends, since that’s about when summer tourism officially begins in popular coastal areas.

Here are some of my spring guides you may find helpful:

• Spring In Vermont
• Maine In The Spring
• Spring In Massachusetts
• Best Places To See Cherry Blossoms In Boston
• My Guide & Tips For The Nantucket Daffodil Festival

New England In The Summer

Summer is peak season for pretty much any destination along the coastline in New England, and this is when you can expect the most crowds and highest prices in these areas.

That said, I think it’s worth it! As much as I’m not usually one to travel anywhere in peak season, I actually love the New England coastline in the summer! I love how the cool Atlantic ocean water feels on a hot summer day, getting an ice cream cone, and enjoying the lively buzz these areas have this time of the year.

I’ve traveled to Cape Cod for at least a week every summer for the last 10+ years, and also used to go there as a kid in the summers. The entire coastline in this region just feels so special in the summer because of how long our winter season is.

The summer along the coast is also when all the seasonal business are open, so you’ll have the most options when it comes to seafood and lobster shacks, ice cream, and boat tours.

In the summer, you’ll want to prepare for hot and humid weather. Humidity averages around 75% in July and August, so it often feels warmer than it actually is. In recent years, the humidity has been even higher than that due to the impacts of global warming. And while the summer season offers the best weather, there is still a chance of rain – this is New England, after all!

Where to go in New England in the summer:

• Cape Cod, Nantucket & Martha’s Vineyard
• Massachusetts North Shore (Gloucester, Rockport, Newburyport/Plum Island)
• Ogunquit, Maine
• Westerly, RI
• Newport, RI
• Madison, CT

Fun destinations that are usually less expensive to visit than the coastline in the summer:

• White Mountains, NH
• The Berkshires in MA
• Litchfield Hills, CT

New England In July

Average July Temperatures: 80°F during the day, 60°F at night*

July is a fantastic summer month to visit New England because you’ll likely have great weather, and the hydrangeas are in bloom. New England is, of course, famous for its hydrangeas, and you’ll see them in places all over, especially in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard happen to be especially great for seeing hydrangeas.

New England In August

Average August Temperatures: 80-85°F during the day, 60-65°F at night*

August is the hottest month of the year in New England, and another perfect month to visit the coastline. The cool Atlantic ocean water will feel especially great on hot August days, and everything is still very much abuzz this month.

Hydrangeas usually begin to fade for the season at the end of July, but they will still be alive in August – they’ll just likely have lost some of their color.

New England In September

Average September Temperatures: 70°F during the day, 50°F at night*

September has become one of the more popular months to visit New England in the last five years or so because it’s a great shoulder season. Children are back at school once Labor Day is over, so many people aren’t traveling this time of the year. This usually means fewer crowds at popular places, and prices begin to drop.

That said, I’ve noticed that September continues to be a popular month for travel along the New England coast. It’s definitely been busier than it was than five years ago, so keep in mind that it won’t feel deserted. The first two weeks are more busy than the last two weeks, usually. But you definitely won’t see the crowds that July and August bring.

September weather the first half of the month tends to feel a lot like summer, and many locals refer to it as “second summer.” It often begins to cool down later in the month when you can enjoy more mild weather, but this varies from year to year.

The very end of September begins peak foliage season in New England in the northern regions, too. While I usually recommend that people plan their foliage trips in the first half of October, places in northern Vermont and northern New Hampshire begin to peak the last week in September. So, if you can’t make it in October, this is a good time to visit.

Here are some of my summer guides you may find helpful:

• Summer In New England
• Summer In Connecticut
• Summer In Maine
• Best Beach Towns In New England

New England In The Fall

I’m just gonna say it – fall in New England is magical , and it’s definitely one of my favorite seasons to travel around this region! Peak foliage typically happens the first two weeks of October, depending on where you are, but foliage season can also last through November in some parts, so there’s a lot of opportunity to see fall color throughout fall.

But because the fall foliage is so stunning, it attracts a lot of tourists. I won’t sugarcoat it for you – the hotel rates are high, and the crowds are intense at the most popular foliage destinations. But honestly, it’s so worth it.

A note on the crowds – I’ve been to the top foliage spots right at peak time, and while there are a lot people around, it’s always possible to avoid them. So, I don’t want to deter people when I talk about how crowded foliage locations can be. I just want to allow you to adjust expectations, while also being excited to go. It’s a bucket list trip for many people for a very good reason!

Where to go to New England in the fall:

• Stowe, VT (peaks around Indigenous People’s weekend)
• Woodstock, VT (peaks around Indigenous People’s weekend)
• White Mountains, NH (peaks in early October)
• The Berkshires, MA (peaks early-mid October)
• Boston, MA (peaks late October)
• Salem, MA (peaks late October)

New England In October

Average October Temperatures: 55-60°F during the day, 40°F at night*

October is the best month to visit for fall foliage in most locations around New England, as the best spots will peak during this month.

As far as weather goes, it’s also good to know that the fall season has been trending warmer the last few years with the impacts of global warming, so while you can (and should!) anticipate chillier weather in October, you could also have some warm, sunny days that feel a bit more like spring or summer.

The higher elevations in the mountains, like Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire, will also usually see their first snow fall in October. But most other regions won’t see their first snow until November or December.

Generally speaking, October is a season of magic and coziness in New England – you’ll find idyllic foliage scenery at every turn, including amazing apple cider donuts, farm stands, fall decorations, and restaurants highlighting the seasonal ingredients. And it’s just so exciting to see all the fall landscapes ablaze with color. It truly feels like stepping into a postcard.

• New England In November

Average November Temperatures: 45°F during the day, 30°F at night*

I think November is such an underrated month to visit New England, and I often plan at least one getaway this time of the year. November is a transitional season in this region because fall foliage is pretty much over is most areas, but winter has yet to arrive.

If you’re looking for fall foliage in November, your best chance at catching it is the first week of the moth along the Massachusetts coast – specifically Plymouth and possibly Boston. Other places where it may linger into early November are southeast Connecticut, and the southern coast of Maine. But usually all foliage has fallen off the trees by November in most places.

There’s also a good chance for a light snow fall in November, and the higher elevations, as mentioned, have likely already had snow once November rolls around. You’ll want to prepare for chillier weather and more bland scenery as leaves have fallen from the trees, but the upside is cheaper hotel rates and far fewer crowds everywhere.

I always like to suggest booking more expensive places in November because you’ll save the most money – this is the month I’ll usually splurge on a fancier resort or a spa stay.

New England In December

Average December Temperatures: 35°F during the day, 20°F at night*

I know it seems weird to include December under my fall section, but since winter doesn’t officially begin until December 21st, it seemed like this was the right place for it!

December in New England is all about holiday festivities, and this is one of the best places in the country to visit those charming small towns Hallmark movies are made of! I have an entire post on all the best Christmas towns in New England if you’re looking to plan a holiday getaway.

Weather in December has also fallen victim to global warming over the last few years, and snowy Christmas seasons have become less likely – especially in the last couple of years. While a white Christmas had been the norm in years past, the last few years have been either rainy or sunny.

So, when visiting New England for Christmas festivities, keep in mind that you may not experience snow. While it’s possible, and likely in some higher elevation areas, it’s not guaranteed. However, it’s still usually pretty chilly in December, so you’ll want to pack warm sweaters, coats, and boots.

Overall, expect crowds and high prices in popular Christmas towns like Kennebunkport, Nantucket, and Stockbridge. But you can also book mid-week travel, or travel closer to the Christmas holiday to save some money.

Most Christmas festivals in New England take place the first two weeks in December, which is why hotel rates will start to drop later in the month.

Here are some of my fall guides you may find helpful:

• New Hampshire In The Fall
• Maine In October
• Best Times & Places To See Fall Foliage In Vermont
• The PERFECT New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Fall In New England
• Boston In The Fall
• Vermont In The Fall
• Fall In Massachusetts
• New England Thanksgiving Getaway Ideas

* Please keep in mind that these averages are based on historical data, and with the new weather and temperature patterns emerging in the last few years due to global warming, temperatures could fluctuate a lot more, and/or trend warmer. I always suggest you check weather forecasts a few days prior to your visit to see what the weather is predicted to be like when you’ll be there.

Most Expensive Times To Visit New England

This will depend on where you’re planning to travel to, but here’s a guideline on the most expensive times and places in New England:

July & August : Coastal and beach towns are the most expensive these months, with late June and early September also having high prices (not as high as July/August, though). Boston and Portland, Maine also usually see high hotel prices around this time.

October : Top fall foliage destinations are most expensive, including the White Mountains, Vermont, The Berkshires, Boston, and Salem.

January – Mid March : Top ski and winter getaway destinations are most expensive, including Vermont, White Mountains, and Maine ski areas.

Cheapest Times To Visit New England

This will also depend on where you plan to visit, but here’s a guideline on the least expensive times and places in New England:

Late March – April: Tends to be one of the cheapest time to visit most of New England as we transition from winter to spring.

November : Also tends to be a cheap time to visit because the ski resorts aren’t in full swing yet, and fall foliage season is pretty much over.

Early May : Another affordable time to visit. Prices will be higher than April, but still much less than peak summer and fall foliage pricing.

January – March : Along the coastline, you’ll find amazing hotel deals in the winter, especially in places like Cape Cod and coastal Maine.

Editor’s Note on Pricing in New England : It’s good to keep in mind that New England, in general, is a more expensive region to visit compared to other parts of the country. Prices trend higher, and even affordable times of the year can bring a little sticker shock. I just like to make folks aware of this as they’re pricing out hotels and accommodations!

Best Time To Visit For Fall Foliage

As mentioned, October the best month to visit for fall foliage. While some parts of the region will begin to peak the last week in September, October is the month where almost all of New England will begin to peak.

Popular places like the White Mountains, The Berkshires, and much of Vermont will peak the first half of October, central New Hampshire peaks mid October, and places like Boston, Salem, and the Massachusetts coastline peak toward the end of October. So really, you could spend the entire month in New England and chase the foliage the whole time!

Best Time To Visit The New England Coast

As mentioned, I really love the coastal destinations in July and August. July will put on a show of the blooming hydrangeas, which is really special to see!

But the best weather is in July and August. The tradeoff is that this is the most expensive time to visit the coastal areas, and also when you’ll see the most crowds. However, because all the seasonal businesses like seafood and lobster shacks, ice cream places, and tour companies are open, I think it’s definitely worth it.

When To Visit For Skiing & Winter Fun

While ski resorts will begin to open in November, I think the best time to visit New England for skiing is January-early March. This is when the region will see the most snow fall, and feel like a true winter wonderland.

For non-skiers, places offering sleigh rides, ice skating, and snow tubing will also be fully open during this time.

When To Visit New England For The Best Weather

July and August have the best weather in New England. These are the months you’ll see the most warm and sunny days, and the fewest rain days.

That said, keep in mind that New England does experience rain year-round, so while July and August are the driest months, there will likely still be a few days of rain.

Best Time To Visit For Whale Watching

Whale watching season in New England is between May and October, but some companies will begin to offer tours toward the end of April, and through early November. Whale watching tours are not offered in the winter months in New England.

The most common types of whales to see in New England on a tour are humpback, finback, and minke. Most tours guarantee a whale sighting, or you’ll receive a voucher for another tour.

Off the coast of Massachusetts is the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary , and this is regarded as one of the top whale watching destinations in the entire world. Yep, you read that right – the world! So when you visit New England, a whale watching tour is always one of my top suggestions.

Best Time To Visit New England For Seafood & Lobster

Coastal New England is famous for its incredible seafood, so this is something you’ll definitely want to try during your visit. And good news! You can get fresh seafood year-round in this region.

When it comes to lobsters, they’re harvested year-round, but since they’re most active in the summer and fall seasons, they tend to be less expensive abundant around this time. The hauls are a bit smaller in the winter and very early spring months, so you’ll usually see higher prices for them these times of the year.

It’s also good to be aware that a lot of the best and most popular seafood and lobster shacks along the coastline are seasonal, and only open late spring through Labor Day, or sometimes Indigenous People’s weekend. So if your primary goal when visiting New England is to get a lobster roll or lobster dinner at the best seafood shacks along the coast, you’ll want to visit in the summer.

That said, tons of restaurants around New England are open in the winter and serving up awesome seafood year-round. It’s really just the casual shacks that close down off-season.

Other seafood that’s local to the area like clams, oysters, cod, and hallock are also available year-round.

If you happen to visit in the winter, scallops are harvested this time of the year, and are especially fresh and delicious in the winter months! When you order, remember to pronounce them as “SKAHL-ups” so that you’ll fit right in 😉

More of my New England travel guides you may find helpful:

• The BEST 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary (Plus 5 & 10 Day Options)
• Best New England Resorts & Spas
• Must-See Towns On The New England Coast
• Most Incredible Things To Do In New England For Your Bucket List
• Fun New England Day Trips
• Best New England Islands Worth Visiting
• Best Time To Visit Vermont
• Best Time To Visit Salem, MA
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Places To Visit In New England

That’s A Wrap On The Best Time To Visit New England

And there you have it! Now you’ve got the inside scoop on the best time to visit New England. The thing is, there’s really no bad time to visit because there’s truly something exciting to check out year-round with the changing seasons. But based on your plans, priorities, and budget, I hope this guide has been helpful. Happy planning!

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Where to See the Best Fall Colors in the Northeast USA

W hen I was a child growing up in New York, my family regularly traveled Interstate 84 to Connecticut. The blazing colors of fall made the trip magical. Since then, I’ve lived in Connecticut and Maine and have visited all the New England states in autumn. Here’s my guide to leaf peeping in the Northeast USA.

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Fall Colors in Maine

I might be biased, but I believe Maine has some of the best fall foliage in New England. I recommend that wanna-be leaf peepers take a drive down either Route 1 or Route 1A for some prime fall colors viewing. I learned this when my kids and I first lived in Maine. We were traveling Route 1A to the coast to Damariscotta, when I gazed out the window and was struck by the stunning autumn colors.

It happened to be the same weekend as the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest , held annually in mid-October. (The Pumpkinfest, which features exquisitely carved pumpkins, a pumpkin regatta and more, is worth a trip!) And while you are on the drive, stop at a lobster shack or small restaurant for a bite. You won’t be disappointed.

You can get the latest tips for where and when to see the best of Maine’s fall colors, check the state’s fall foliage report .

These are my other favorite spots to see fall leaves in Maine.

Acadia National Park

Perhaps one of the best-known places to see leaves in Maine is Acadia National Park , where you can do a little hiking and enjoy the scenery. As you drive along Park Loop Road, for instance, stop at one of the many vistas to gaze out at the Instagram-worthy fall colors.

Acadia also has many, many options for hiking, from easy trails like Wonderland and Ship’s Harbor to challenging mountain hikes with awesome views.

When you’re done hiking, take a short drive to Bar Harbor for a bite to eat. My go-to is Geddy’s, but there are many great restaurants there.

Baxter State Park and the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument

Farther north in Maine, Baxter State Park and the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument also offer stunning views for daring hikers.

With several hiking trails available in both areas, there are plenty of options (and difficulty levels) to choose from.

If biking is more your thing, the Katahdin region also has bike trails on nearby Hammond Ridge, just north of Millinocket.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in October

Fall Colors in New York

In a normal year, most of New York hits peak foliage season in early October.

Before you go, check the Fall Foliage Report  for New York from the Department of Economic Development to find the ideal spots and timing for your trip. Although peak season can be estimated, fall foliage reports will have more current information accounting for the weather and other factors.

Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain

As you drive down the Palisades Parkway, take time to see the rusty colors outside your car window. Then take a hike or bike ride through the park. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.

Overlook Mountain Wild Forest, Woodstock

This is the place for a lovely fall hike. There are several trails to choose from including the Overlook Mountain Spur Trail, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson River Valley at the summit. If you have younger kids, the easier and shorter Meads Meadow Trail and Overloop Trail might be a better choice.

When you’re done with your hike, head into town. Woodstock isn’t actually where the famed 1969 music festival was held. But it is a fun, artsy town with good food and cute shops. I loved visiting Woodstock as a child because the fanciful stores offered something different and whimsical.

Letchworth State Park

Fall is magical here with its dramatic 600-foot cliffs and waterfalls in full fall foliage glory.

Voted the No. 1 State Park in the United States in 2015, Letchworth is called the Grand Canyon of the East. Fall is peak season at the park, so plan to visit early to get a parking spot near one of the gorgeous overlooks. Read more about Letchworth State Park .

Mount Utsayantha, Stamford

Another hiking spot, Mount Utsayantha offers sweeping views at its summit. While you’re there, take a moment to check out the old building that was once a tourist center and the fire tower (but don’t climb it — that’s not allowed). This is located southwest of Albany.

Connecticut Fall Colors

Connecticut hits peak foliage season in mid-October. This is the best time for a day trip or getaway through the Nutmeg State.

Connecticut’s tourism department maintains a  Fall Foliage Report  as well. It’s worth a look before you go.

Litchfield Hills

When I was fresh out of college and working in Connecticut, an assignment sent a photographer and me driving around the backroads of the Litchfield Hills. It was there that I learned how fun a scenic drive can be.

The northwest corridor of Connecticut remains one of my favorite places to experience autumn. Encompassing towns including Litchfield, Torrington, Canaan and Kent, there are so many opportunities to take in the fall colors — and have some fun too.

Kent Falls State Park, Kent

For hiking, picnicking and enjoying fall foliage, I love Kent Falls. In addition to the lovely falls, the park has a classic covered footbridge, a majestic hike and plenty of space to run around. The hike is steep but short, just a quarter mile up. My kids were able to do this hike with ease at ages 4 and 6 — and they loved it, too.

Park entrance is free for state residents, but out-of-staters pay a fee ($15/car on the weekends and holidays; $10 on weekdays) that goes to support the park.

While in Kent, also check out Bull’s Bridge, a 19th-century covered bridge.

Also in the northwestern part of Connecticut, a trip to Cornwall is a lovely drive through scenic hills.

When you get there, head to the Cornwall Bridge, a covered bridge that crosses the Housatonic River. It’s an Inst-worthy stop. Records indicate that a bridge may have been in place in this location as early as 1762. While it’s not the original one, this covered bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and still carries traffic on Route 128 over the river.

Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor

The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is a scenic drive through 35 small towns in northeastern Connecticut and south-central Massachusetts.

Although it spans a greater area, you could take a drive down Route 169 from Norwich to Woodstock (both in the Connecticut portion of the Last Green Valley), stopping in the towns as you go.

Perhaps you’ll find one of Connecticut’s ubiquitous country stores for lunch.

Fall in Massachusetts

The best time for peak color in Massachusetts is in early October through the middle of the month. These are the best spots for fall colors in Massachusetts:

Route 2 in Massachusetts

This is a historic road that winds its ways through the Berkshires, Lexington and Concord. It takes about three hours to drive the entire road, but you can do shorter trips to take in the foliage — and the history.

Route 1A Near Boston

If you’re near Boston, try heading up 1A between Beverly and the quaint town of Newburyport. Once in Newburyport, park downtown and walk around. There are lovely stores including indie toy and bookstores.

The crowds are gone and some Cape Cod restaurants and attractions close in the fall. But there’s still plenty to see, do and eat. And the fall colors cannot be beat. While you’re there try one of the many family-friendly Cape Cod restaurants.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island also hits peak colors in early to mid-October. Plan a trip to this tiny East Coast state then.

Roger Williams Park, Providence

Located on more than 435 acres, Roger Williams Park is a great place to visit for leaf-peeping. Stroll through the park, have a picnic, go boating and enjoy the fall colors. There’s much to do in this park that was established in the 1870s.

Cliff Walk, Newport

If you haven’t done the Newport Cliff Walk, that’s another good possibility for seeing fall colors — and taking a good stroll. It’s about 3.5 miles long and winds past the ocean and breathtaking estates.

You can also tour the mansions while you’re at it. This area is pretty any time of year, but with fall foliage, it has an extra-special view.

Fall Colors Northeast: New Hampshire

The foliage hits prime colors in New Hampshire in late September through early October. That’s the best time to plan a trip through this New England state.

White Mountains

For good colors and good fun, head to the White Mountains region for a scenic drive on Route 112 between Lincoln and North Conway. The drive itself is beautiful, and you’ll end up in an area known for its tourist-friendly offerings.

In North Conway, consider taking the Cog Railway up Mount Washington to see the stunning views at the top. You can hike it if you’re adventurous, but read these tips first . Or just head to the outlets for tax-free shopping.

Lake Winnepesaukee

This is the state’s largest lake and a favorite spot for summer vacationers. Some businesses may be closed for the season by the time fall arrives, so phone ahead if there are any you particularly want to visit.

But mostly, enjoy the fall foliage reflected in the beautiful lake. This is perfect for a weekend trip to relax and enjoy autumn.

Vermont Fall Colors

Is there a bad place in Vermont to see fall colors? Perhaps not. In this state, peak foliage colors can be found in late September and early October, with some good coloring found later in the month too.

Head to the Mountains for Fall Colors in the Northeast

Head to the mountains to take it all in. At Stowe Ski Resort, for instance, you can take the Gondola Skyride — used in-season to transport skiers up the mountain — to see the colors from above. At Mount Snow, take a ride on the chair lift to take in the views. Killington Ski Area has a Brewfest event that happens each fall, so you can combine leaf peeping with enjoying good food and beer.

While in Vermont, you can also tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury and see how the famed ice cream is made.

The post Where to See the Best Fall Colors in the Northeast USA appeared first on She Buys Travel .

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These Are New England’s Most Scenic Fall Foliage Destinations, From Coastal Cities to National Forests

Whether you’re coming from the South, Midwest, or elsewhere on the East Coast, the riches of autumn in New England are always worth the easy drive or quick flight. You can’t go wrong in this neighborhood of the Northeast—each of the region’s six states has its own unique take on fall bliss, with multi-hued leaves, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and so much more to choose from. Here, we offer a state-by-state rundown of fall's best region to help you decide where to get the most out of this year’s leaf peeping—whether by road, bike, foot, or even boat—plus sublime menus full of fall ingredients, and the cozy and luxe accommodations from which to base your adventures.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products are independently selected by our editors. However, if you buy something through our affiliate links, we may earn a commission.

New Hampshire

Mountainous and woodsy, New Hampshire is blessed with seemingly endless parklands for experiencing fall foliage, both on foot and behind the wheel. Make a beeline for the White Mountain National Forest, hopping on the Kancamagus Highway (or the “Kanc” as locals call it). Northern New Hampshire’s claim to fame is this highly scenic 35-mile stretch of Route 112, which erupts with vibrant, changing leaves over multiple elevations. There are no gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and the like—nature takes center stage. Breathe in the fresh air and work on your landscape photography game . Enjoy your picnic lunch at one of the route’s many waterfalls, like "Sabbaday Falls" or "Rocky Gorge."

Next, beyond the White Mountain National Forest, embark on an oh-so-fall adventure: a cider donut crawl. In Loudon, savor piping-hot cider doughnuts at Meadow Ledge Farm —they’re so good they often command a 45-minute line. In Meredith, get lost in a mega-corn maze, pick your own pumpkins, and try “flavored” cider doughnuts (with various toppings like chocolate drizzle and sprinkles) at Moulton Farm . Alternatively, balance town and forest with overnights in the hip town of Portsmouth, just an hour's drive from most of the region's best hiking trails. For starters, summit Mount Kearsage in Wilmot, or explore a portion of the 40-plus miles of trails in nearby Bear Brook State Park.

Where to stay

It should come as no surprise that the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has ample views of the White Mountains. A fun throwback to the age of New England’s grand hotels that catered to city slickers from Boston and New York (not unlike today), this charming, historic property is this fall undergoing a total renovation of the guest rooms.

If you’re driving to New Hampshire or points further north, check in to the Great Island Inn , an “apart-hotel” occupying a restored historic home just a few minutes from downtown Portsmouth. Sure there’s no pool, no concierge, not even a front desk to speak of, but what you skip in amenities you more than make up for in value, at a time of year when many hotels like to jack up room rates to take advantage of leaf-peepers. It’s cute, it’s cozy, and it’s centrally located for all of your coastal New Hampshire adventures.

Where to eat

In Mount Washington, gorge on breakfasts of maple syrup-drenched buttermilk pancakes and apple betty French toast at the Glen House. Consider a trek up to White Mountain Cider Company for dinner and dessert of warm cider doughnuts and ice cream.

In Portsmouth, book ahead for dinner at Row 34 Portsmouth where you’ll find briny local oysters (don’t miss the umami-rich Row 34 oysters, the most mature bivalves from Island Creek Oyster Farm, Duxbury Bay in neighboring Massachusetts) and the best lobster roll in all New England (yes, you read that correctly).

New England leaf peeping is at its finest in Vermont, where wilderness covers 75 percent of the land. Surrounded by more maple trees than anywhere else in the region, you'll find the brightest of yellows, oranges, and reds on nearly every highway and country road. (Considering this is the best-of-the-best foliage, we’ve even created an entire guide of 15 ways to find fall in the Green Mountain State.)

Since most colors pop early October in northern Vermont, mid- to late-October visitors should consider central or southern Vermont. Visit Manchester and climb Equinox Mountain, taking in colorful panoramas that stretch from New York to New Hampshire. Or go to Woodstock, one of the most beautiful towns in the U.S., from where you can be up and down 1,250-foot Mount Tom in about 90 minutes.

In the heart of Manchester Village within Green Mountain National Forest, check into Kimpton Taconic Hotel . Expect a mind-blowing explosion of colors all around this unpretentious, yet elegant hotel. Also, look forward to a lot of happy doggies rolling around in the leaves: like all pet-friendly Kimpton hotels, this outpost caters as much to pets as it does to humans.

Looking for a hidden gem, in Southern Vermont just a quick drive from New York and Boston? Consider the award-winning Hermitage Inn , which just changed hands and underwent a fabulous renovation during the pandemic. Country roads, plenty of vibrant sugar maple trees, and all the Vermont charm you can handle is within reach from this tranquil West Dover hideaway. There’s even a covered bridge on the property for all your sight-seeing and Instagramming needs.

For a bucolic countryside escape, head to Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont—an all-inclusive Relais & Chateaux spot and the highlight of New England’s rural retreats—where the food and design often take center stage, but the spa services (for an additional fee) also deserve consideration. They offer cozy in-room fireside massages (which conclude with your therapist drawing you a hot bath), as well as high-potency facials using products from Biologique Recherche.

Rhode Island

Since it’s more about the coast than the forest in the country’s smallest state, Rhode Island may not be an obvious choice for fall—but it's prime time to experience "locals' summer." Split your days between walks on vast, near-empty beaches and drives along colorful, canopied country roads. Head down the oceanfront Scenic Route 1A from Westerly to Wickford—it’s 39.6 miles, a long distance in Rhode Island terms—for the ultimate juxtaposition of seaside backdrops and changing leaves. Connect to Route 102, which passes through the best of the state’s quiet two-lane roads, featuring quintessential New England architecture, towering red maple trees, country stores, and some supposedly haunted taverns (pop into the early-18th century Tavern on Main in Chapeacet to amp up your pre-Halloween jitters).

Where to stay and eat

Base yourself at Ocean House , overlooking an exquisite swathe of beach and Block Island Sound. The hotel sports a fresh take on coastal New England glam as envisioned by noted designer Peter Neimitz. After watching an amazing sunset from the hotel’s private Ocean House beach (and waving to Taylor Swift, whose mansion is next door), savor a multi-course tasting menu at the hotel’s locavore flagship restaurant, Coast . The menu changes nightly, based on seasonal produce from neighboring farms and the catch of the day.

Take advantage of Newport’s shoulder season rates at the Cliffside Inn , an adorable, fully restored 1876 Victorian mansion in the heart of Newport’s Historic District. In the fall, the streets grow wonderfully quiet, making it a rewarding time of year to go on long, ambling walks through Newport’s cobblestoned streets. With just 16 rooms, each with a unique layout and furnishings, this inn feels more like your glamorous, eccentric friend’s weekend escape than a “historic Newport hotel.” For dinner, stroll over to downtown and book a table at Giusto , where the “Freestyle Italian” cuisine uses Italian influences on local and seasonal ingredients.

Massachusetts

There are two ways to love fall in Massachusetts. One is heading out west through the Berkshire Mountains and leaf peeping along the 63-mile Mohawk Trail, New England’s original scenic drive (and arguably Massachusetts’s most picturesque). The two-lane highway follows a Native American trade route as it passes through 50,000 acres of parklands and forests (especially well-preserved around the Mohawk Trail State Forest, where bears and bobcats have been known to cross the trail). For a good hike, detour in North Adams to climb Mount Greylock, the highest peak in the state at 3,489 feet.

The second option is sticking to New England’s capital, Boston , and taking in autumn at easy-to-reach and easier-to-photograph spots while eating your way through the season. Get your fix of fall bliss strolling the Public Garden , the Charles River Esplanade , the Arnold Arboretum and tree-lined Harvard campus. Better yet, consider taking a ride out to the trails around Walden Pond or Middlesex Fells Reservation, and blow up your Instagram feed with shots of the foliage reflecting off the water. Pack in as many steps as possible, since you’ll also be feasting on the seasonal harvest at Boston’s best restaurants.

Take in the best of the northern Berkshires from the Williams Inn –an adorable, refined property just minutes from MASS MoCA , the Clark Institute, and gorgeous New England forest as far as the eye can see. New for this fall is the “An Apple A Day” package, which includes a four-pack of fresh cider donuts, a bottle of local pressed apple cider, and a keepsake wooden basket in addition to your stay.

Get the foliage experience from the comfort of The Newbury at one of the best addresses in Boston: 1 Newbury Street, overlooking the splendid Public Gardens. With rooms designed by international hospitality legend Alexandra Champalimaud and a rooftop Major Food Group restaurant, Contessa, designed by the greatest showman Ken Fulk, there’s little reason to leave throughout your stay (although you should).

Not every dinner needs to be a chef-driven, fancy affair. Embrace the motor lodge, grassroots history of this part of Massachusetts with a bite at Jack’s Hot Dog Stand , which first opened its doors in 1917. You can still get a plain hot dog for and impressive $1.95. That leaves you with plenty of gas money for a long, winding road trip through taking in that Berkshires foliage.

For a more refined take on the Berkshires, and a sampling of all the flavors this region has to offer, make a reservation at farm-to-table Mezze Bistro & Bar , perched on the outskirts of Williamstown in an historic 19th century building on three idyllic acres overlooking Sheep Hill.

If you’re going to really do Boston, you might as well indulge in a little fine dining, right? The food at local favorite Bistro du Midi is just as classic and spectacular as the views over the Public Garden. Be sure to splurge on chef Robert Sisca’s Ora King Salmon Crudo (which comes finished with shiitake mushrooms, cherries and sea beans), and the truly unique bouillabaisse flatbread.

Connecticut

Admittedly, Connecticut isn’t the first state that comes to mind for a New England fall getaway. But the leaf-strewn parks and forests of the state’s northwest reaches should easily change that. Trek through the landscapes of Mt. Tom State Park and Talcott Mountain State Park, ascending moderate trails to reach stone towers on their respective summits. Or walk some of the 20 miles of walking trails at the Audubon-designated Deer Pond Farm Sanctuary in the town of Sherman.

Also, if you’re really late in finding fall, consider coastal Connecticut—the leaves change color here about two weeks later than up north. Hike and photograph patches of 27,000-acre Pachaug State Forest, the state’s largest forest system. Check out the short-but-sweet Mount Misery trail, which contrary to its name, is incredibly delightful and rewarding with its views. For the most relaxing way to take in the multi-colored splendor, take a one-hour fall foliage-themed cruise down the Connecticut River with River Quest, which leaves out of Haddam.

A foliage escape needn’t include an arduous road trip to the furthest reaches of Maine–the charming, the luxe Graybarns is tucked away on a quiet street in Norwalk, Connecticut just over an hour from Manhattan. Easy peasy. And since Graybarns doesn’t have the pesky two- or three-night minimums you’ll find at many of comparable hotels in the Hudson Valley, escaping for as little as one night is entirely possible. Perched on a quiet stretch of the Silvermine River–with plenty of Design Within Reach Adirondack chairs from which to take in the view–the hotel has just six enormous rooms, each with king beds, Frette linens, Flamingo Estate amenities, and a complimentary minibar decked out with drinks and treats for your stay. There’s also an adorable on-site mercantile so you can gather picnic supplies, and the staff can easily direct you to numerous walks and scenic drives in the area.

Along the coast, rest comfortably in downtown Mystic at Spicer Mansion , a 19th-century estate that has been meticulously transformed into an elegant, eight-room hotel, championing a new take on Victorian glamour. 

If you find yourself leaf-peeping in the bucolic hillsides of Litchfield County, book a table at Arethusa e Tavolo , an iconic dairy- and seed-to-table experience that offers an inventive take on farm-fresh fare such as tempura squash blossoms with red pepper ricotta, or pork tenderloin with braised leeks and peach fondant.

We hope you like carbs. Closer to the coast down in charming Chester, Grano Arso chef Joel Gargano mills native New England grains for his house-made pastas and breads. There’s also a great drinks list of Italian wines and locally made New England beers.

Maine is home to vast stretches of breathtaking coastline, which this time of year is where all your Coastal Grandma dreams can come true. If it’s a good meal, a brisk walk by the ocean and a sunset glass of Chardonnay followed by an early bedtime you’re after, the sleepy, seaside towns like Kennebunkport are where it’s at. You’ll get a taste of foliage by the coast, but true immersionin the Pine Tree State's wild crimson, pumpkin, and amber-hued woods, however, requires heading deeper inland. For superlative fall foliage, go hiking in northern Maine in early October. Explore Baxter State Park and the forests to itsthe southwest, the contiguous Nahmakanta Public Reserved Land and Appalachian Mountain Club 100-Mile Wilderness Conservation Area. There are enough hiking trails to keep all skill levels happy, and regardless of which you choose you'll find paths lined with deciduous trees and towering evergreens, and punctuated by boulder-strewn streams, lakes, and ponds. (Bonus: This is prime moose-spotting territory.)

Kennebunkport in the summer? Idyllic, albeit a bit crowded. Kennebunkport in the fall? Cozy seaside heaven, with just a fraction of the visitors. Many of the town’s best hotels start closing for the season at this time of year, but the Cape Arundel Inn & Resort remains open year-round. The location offers the best of both worlds: a quick walk or bike ride into town, but a secluded location directly on posh Ocean Avenue so you can fall asleep to the serene music of gently ebbing waves. And come nightfall, its restaurant Ocean offers sweeping views of the water from a dining room illuminated by votive candlelight, and a tasting menu with wine pairings that’s one of the better fine dining experiences you can have in Maine. Book a room in the main house so you can gently Coastal Grandma your way upstairs to bed after dinner.

Camp out at this rustic yet comfortable Appalachian Mountain Club–backed Medawisla Lodge and Cabins in Greenville, Maine. Accommodations include hilltop cabins with private baths, cabins with shared bath, and a main lodge, where you can also pick your level of frills. The luxury here is the location: Smack in the center of wild Maine, you have immediate access to fly fishing , hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddling, all with surreal autumnal backdrops. Opt for a meal package at Medawisla, which includes a fresh-cooked breakfast and dinner, plus packed trail lunch daily. And just keep in mind that they close for the season this year on October 15th, so it’s better to book sooner than later.

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The Best Places to See Fall Colors in New England

With all of New England at your fingertips, you can enjoy the fall season near a lake, on the ocean, up in the mountains, or find yourself a nice cabin in a secluded forest. In between scenic hikes or memorable drives, fill your days with visits to historical sites, museums, lighthouses, and harvest festivals , which are happening in almost every town across the region throughout September and October.

If you hope to see peak colors when you visit, you'll want to go further north earlier in the season—around late September—or stay south if you'd rather go later in mid-October. New England is full of leaf-peeping hotspots with travelers flocking from all over to see the colors change in these picture-perfect New England landscapes.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is one of New England’s most popular national parks and a rare coastal destination where dense forests set atop seaside cliffs turn brilliant colors in the fall. The contrast of leaves against a backdrop of sea and sky makes for stunning visuals, and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park will allow you to admire the scenery at an ideal pace. Even though Maine is one of the northern states, the coastal region of Acadia National Park is the last part to reach fall colors , usually around the second week of October.

Entrance to the national park costs $30 per vehicle, which allows for up to seven days in the park. You can pre-purchase and print the pass online in order to skip the tickets booths and head straight to your destination. While you’re on the Maine coast, try the lobster at Thurston’s Lobster Pound for this area’s ultimate lobster-eating experience.

Bethel, Maine

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During fall foliage season, this ski town in western Maine makes an excellent home base for travelers seeking to experience all of the wonders of autumn in northern New England. With a line-up of fun fall festivals and activities and easy proximity to scenic drives, hikes, and other attractions in Maine's Western Lakes and Mountains region and New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Bethel can be your launchpad for many autumn adventures.

Don't miss the drive north from Bethel to Rangeley, Maine, past the Height of Land Overlook , which is an incredible photo opportunity for a stunning fall vista. The fall colors in western Maine usually reach their peak a week or two earlier than the coastal region, around the end of September or very beginning of October. The state's Department of Agriculture updates a weekly report so you can time your trip just right.

Stowe, Vermont

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Stowe is world-famous for four-season outdoor recreation, and fall’s vibrant colors are an added thrill in this forest-clad mountain town. Here you can hike, kayak, rock climb, go horseback riding, or soar above the foliage on a gondola ride. The scenic route known as Smuggler's Notch—named for the people who used the route to smuggle alcohol during Prohibition days—begins in Stowe and continues along VT-108 to the town of Jefferson. This is one of the earliest places to experience fall foliage in New England, and the leaves have usually already fallen by the second week of October.

Spend the evenings enjoying the village’s diverse dining options and toasting your exploits with a Vermont craft brew . While you’re in northern Vermont, be sure to tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory just nine miles from Stowe and visit Cold Hollow Cider for fresh-pressed apple cider and hot cider doughnuts made by a doughnut robot.

Jackson, New Hampshire

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The White Mountains can’t be beaten for dramatic fall scenery, and the quintessential New England village of Jackson is convenient to everything including the famously scenic Kancamagus Highway , yet it’s tucked enough away to feel like a romantic retreat. Once you cross Honeymoon Bridge—the red-painted covered bridge at the entrance to the village—you’ll feel like you're in a world all your own. Jackson is at its most charming in October when it is invaded each year by Pumpkin People , decorative scarecrow-like characters with pumpkins heads. To enjoy the fall festivities along with peak fall foliage, aim to be in Jackson during the first two weeks of October and use the state's foliage tracker for the most up-to-date reports.

Woodstock, Vermont

With cute shops, working farms, and historic sites like Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park , Woodstock is your place to explore Vermont’s agricultural traditions in a surprisingly sophisticated setting. Embark on day trips in all directions, or be perfectly content snuggling in front of a fire as chilly nights bring on the fall color parade. The scenic Quechee Gorge and New England’s most photographed farm are both nearby and at their most photogenic in the fall.

Weekly updated foliage reports can help you pick the right moment to see the most vibrant fall colors, which usually happens around the first or second week of October.

Bennington, Vermont

Tucked away in the Green Mountain State's southwest corner, Bennington is a perfect destination as New England begins to don autumn hues thanks to its central location in the region. And because it's in the southern part of the state, it's one of the last places in Vermont to lose its leaves —perfect for late-season travelers and reaching peak fall colors around mid-October

It's the final resting place of New England’s best-known poet, Robert Frost, and is home to some of the state's most idyllic covered bridges. While in town you can also take a moment to learn about history at the Bennington Battle Monument , which marks a battle site from the Revolutionary War, or visit the Bennington Museum , which houses the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings in the world.

Concord, Massachusetts

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If you’re flying into Boston , consider Concord for the first stop on your New England autumn itinerary. Here, you can step back in time to the formative chapters of American history while experiencing all of the charm of this colonial town. It's here where the first battle of the American Revolution was fought and classic writers like Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson found inspiration for much of the work. It's also remarkably bike-friendly, which is a fantastic way to spend a crisp autumn day peeping the changing leaves.

The route from Concord to Lincoln to Lexington is only 6 miles long, but it's one of the best scenic drives you can take in Massachusetts—and most convenient since it's so close to Boston. The trees around the Greater Boston area typically reach their peak foliage in mid-October.

Lenox, Massachusetts

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In western Massachusetts , the Berkshires are a beloved destination for scenery-seekers, outdoorsy types, history buffs, and art-lovers, and the town of Lenox just so happens to be in the center of this storied mountain region. With so many fabulous estates nearby like Chesterwood , The Mount , and Naumkeag , you can spend every day of your fall getaway strolling dreamy pathways and immersing yourself in beauty. If you're feeling up for an adventure, don’t miss the chance to drive The Mohawk Trail , America's first scenic byway, and take a hike to Bash Bish Falls , a scene that has inspired artists since the 19th century.

Because the trees in the Berkshires are at a higher elevation, they are the first ones to start changing colors in Massachusetts. If you plan to explore this part of the state in autumn, plan to be there the first week of October to see the best of fall foliage.

Litchfield, Connecticut

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Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills—just a two-hour drive from New York City—make an ideal home base for travelers who want to see autumn's glory in western New England. Mt. Tom State Park is right in town and a short one-mile hike brings visitors to a lookout tower with unbeatable views of the fiery landscape below. Connecticut's trees are typically the last ones in New England to reach peak colors, so it's an ideal location for people who are planning to visit in the second half of October.

In Litchfield, you can visit wineries and breweries, shop for antiques, and dine on farm-fresh fare. You’re within easy driving distance of the Berkshires and New York’s Hudson Valley, too, so book several nights and enjoy all there is to do in this scenic town and the surrounding area.

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17 Best Places to See New England Fall Foliage

If you’re looking to find the best places to see New England fall foliage, I can promise you that the list you’ll get here will more than suffice.

When it comes to seeing fall foliage in New England and the 6 states that compose it, it’s hard to say that there’s any other area in the states can beat their autumn views and alongside the specific spots below, I’ll also be including separate articles to each of the 6 states in New England and where you can also see even more fall foliage areas there. 

Here are the 17 best places to see New England fall foliage:

• Franconia Notch State Park (New Hampshire)
• Crawford Notch State Park (New Hampshire)
• Sleeping Giant State Park (Connecticut)
• Smugglers Notch and Stowe (Vermont)
• Green Mountain National Forest (Vermont)
• Acadia National Park (Maine)
• Baxter State Park (Maine)
• Moosepath Trail and scenic drive (New Hampshire)
• Bish Bash Falls State Park (Massachusetts)
• Beaver Pond (New Hampshire)
• Lake Champlain (Vermont side)
• Snake Den State Park (Rhode Island)
• Monument Mountain (Massachusetts)
• Bigelow Preserve (Maine)
• Town of Kent (Connecticut)
• Camel’s Hump State Park (Vermont)
• Railroad Truss Bridge (New Hampshire)

In addition to this, I strongly recommend visiting every major town (not city) in New England. I only included one on this list because the truth is any town in the north eastern United States is great to see fall foliage in, which would make this an easy (and lazy) list to make. I’m focused much more on amazing mountain regions where you can get the more natural, wide open fall foliage experience in the region.

Franconia Notch State Park (New Hampshire):

The White Mountains of New Hampshire are probably the best place to see fall foliage in the state and Franconia Notch State Park will arguably give you the best experience of that. It rests basically in the heart of the White Mountains and has a lot of incredible overlooks, access to popular mountains like Cannon Mountain , Mount Lafayette and each of those places offer their own experiences to explore.

In Cannon Mountain for example, you can take a gondola ride up to the top and get some really nice views of the fall foliage from there. But anyway, Franconia Notch State Park which is the place to see in this is where you’ll want to make your road trip to see New England’s top fall colors. But there are also other places to see New Hampshire fall foliage besides this area too (I included a post with over 10 additional spots to add to your list).

Best time to see fall foliage in Franconia Notch State Park: Early-mid October.

Crawford Notch State Park:

For as long as I can remember, one of the most iconic photos of fall foliage I ever saw was of a train bridge cross mountain areas in the fall and the views were just breathtaking (the train ride you’ll want to take here is called Conway Scenic Railroad). It took me many year (and Instagram) to discover that this area is in New Hampshire, but only recently did I learn that its actually in Crawford Notch State Park. Now to be clear, all of New England has great train tours you can take to see the fall foliage, but this is one the most famous/iconic ones and since this location is a park, here’s specifics on what to do:

• Explore the trails in the area, which are great for hiking near the train bridge and a trestle (called Frankenstein Trestle) to see the great views.
• Take the famous Crawford train tour across the area (great for more passive but very scenic adventures).

Best time to see fall foliage in Crawford Notch State Park: Also early-mid October (maybe end of it).

Sleeping Giant State Park (Connecticut):

I never really explored as much of Connecticut as I would like, but for fall foliage if there’s one place worth visiting for great mountain views, fall colors and more, then it’s Sleeping Giant State Park. Aside from having many mountain trails there and a giant tower to explore for great views, this park is amazing to see fall foliage at.

The area is very close to New Haven and if you enjoy hiking, Mt. Carmel is where you’ll want to go (inside the park) to get the best views of the park and of course all the colors. And any town in this state is great for this too, but this is where you’ll get most out of it.

Best time to see fall foliage in Sleeping Giant State Park: Late October usually.

Smugglers Notch and Stowe (Vermont):

Fall foliage in this area of Vermont is something you have to see. Smugglers Notch itself is an amazing place to explore not just for that but the incredible hiking trails, the scenic drive through the heart of that area and more and when I say the heart of fall foliage, I’m not kidding. Stowe itself is a town I strongly recommend staying at and exploring during fall foliage as well and it’s close to Smugglers Notch too.

One other thing I want to mention is that there is a short period towards the end of October where the leaves in Smugglers Notch turn red and that is usually the last 2 weeks of October. That is something I personally have sought to see over the years, but often miss. I also want to recommend reading my White Mountains vs Green Mountains article because aside from visiting these areas in the fall, there’s great spots throughout the year to see in both spots.

Best time to see fall foliage in Smugglers Notch and Stowe: Early October

Green Mountain National Forest (Vermont):

The Green Mountain National Forest area of Vermont is an entire gem for fall foliage and that is not me exaggerating. I’m actually being serious about this region in New England. It doesn’t matter where in this region you go, you will always have access to tons of hikes, beautiful waterfalls, swimming holes, overlooks, scenic drives and much more to see all of this (trust me on that, I’ve been through this area several times and it’s amazing, as well as hard to miss amazing gems).

Generally speaking if you take any part of the Long Trail in the area, you’ll have great hikes to see the colors from but just as well, any small town in this area is also worth stopping and staying at for the fall colors.

Best time to see fall foliage in Green Mountain National Forest: Mid through late October.

Acadia National Park (Maine):

It’s hard to argue that Acadia National Park isn’t just one of the best national parks on the east coast , but it’s also the most beautiful area to visit in Maine and during fall foliage, it’s just that much better there. The national park itself is one of the most beautiful in the entire eastern region of the states (maybe even the whole US), but aside from generalities, here’s what I would recommend you do in Acadia National Park to see fall foliage at it’s best:

• Do any of the main hiking trails there to get you to see the overlooks of the park and ocean. It’s a wonderful mix of great adventures, fall colors everywhere, great sunset views and way more.
• Stay in Bar Harbor if you can. That is basically the area within which the national park is in and there’s actually several close airports to Acadia National Park to consider coming through. There’s a nice town, restaurants and more of a “sea level” experience of the park and fall colors in general.
• Do the drive around the park too. Scenic drives in Acadia are something else!

Best time to see fall foliage in Acadia National Park: Early through mid October.

Baxter State Park (Maine):

Baxter State Park is an excellent place to see fall colors in especially since you get access to the highest mountain range in the state there. There’s Mount Katadhin to check out and hike to see the highest views there.

There’s also hikes like Gulf Hagas to explore (be careful for moose) and one thing I would recommend doing during fall here which I wouldn’t in any other season is the “scenic drive” around the park (New River Road, Part Tote Rd and Grand Lake Road all of which are actually one road around it). I did that drive in the summer and didn’t enjoy it because it’s hard to see the mountains because of the thick woods everywhere but during fall foliage, that scenery is actually worth checking out. Furthermore, this scenic drive provides access to many campsites across Baxter State Park too.

Best time to see fall foliage in Baxter State Park: Also early October.

Moose Path trail and scenic byway (New Hampshire):

Moose Path Trail is one of New Hampshire’s best scenic drives, and for the best places fall foliage in New England, it’s a perfect drive. The “trail” which is really just a long drive is over 120 miles and I’ve included a map that shows you how to do it. There are several roads you will want to take to do this trail and I’ve included a map:

One of the most scenic parts of the drive (most iconic) is when you pass Dixville Notch State Park (marked with an X on the map above). Another major hike (if you’re into that) which I recommend taking in that area is called Table Rock which will take you to the top of mountain in this park to get a great view of the mountains and road (excellent for fall foliage pictures).

Best time to see fall foliage in Moose Path trail: Early through mid October.

Bish Bash Falls State Park (Massachusetts):

This is an incredible and highly underrated park I’ve been to a few times, just not during fall foliage (yet). This area besides having an amazing waterfall and incredible fall foliage to behold also crosses into 2 other states, one of which is New York where it becomes Taconic State Park . Other than this, the hikes there are pretty beginner friendly and the fall foliage colors (based on what I have seen from other sources) are stunning (there’s also swimming holes here). Overall, you can spend an entire day in this park or even a few days and still not finish everything possible to do there.

Best time to see fall foliage in Bish Bash Falls State Park: Mid through late October.

Beaver Pond (New Hampshire):

The first time I ever drove into New Hampshire on my first road trip, I crossed this incredible place in the White Mountains. The fall foliage at Beaver Pond is unbelievable and aside from this, the area is beautiful for many other reasons.

I strongly recommend visiting Beaver Pond if you’re driving through the White Mountains and want to see fall foliage (or just in general since it’s very nice here all year). Another “gem” nearby is Lost River Gorge (10 minutes away) and this is a popular tourist area that I personally do not recommend visiting any other season other than fall, because it’s beautiful fall colors mixed with nice gorge trails and waterfalls.

Best time to see fall foliage in Beaver Pond: Mid October generally.

Lake Champlain (Vermont Side):

Lake Champlain is underrated for it’s beauty but if you are on the Vermont side of it (basically west of the Green Mountains and up to the Canadian Border), be sure to check it out. All over the shoreline there you will find amazing fall foliage and a lot of different towns to stay at to also enjoy it.

But the best parts of this park is seeing the Adirondack Mountains in New York. And speaking of which, I also have a post on the best places to see fall foliage in New York (not part of the New England states, but they have amazing spots to explore for this specific season too). In this case though, you’ll be on the Vermont side of Lake Champlain enjoying and exploring the area. One thing you may want to also see is Sand Bar State Park (in between NY and Vermont). It’s a small area, but very neat and the views of the states and mountains around there are spectacular! Also I’ve compiled a list with more specific spots to see Vermont Fall foliage in as well.

Best time to see fall foliage throughout Lake Champlain: 2nd-3rd week of October.

Snake Den State Park (Rhode Island):

Even though it’s a small area, Rhode Island has a lot of towns to see great fall foliage in, but what I’m specifically suggesting you check out if you go to this state during fall foliage is Snake Den State Park, the area where you’ll likely get the most out of the state for autumn views.

The park is a nice mix of simple trails, farms, a few decent boulder hikes to pretty nice overlooks in general and some nice bridges that cross streams making for very nice photogenic fall photos. Snake Den State Park is basically a 5-10 minute drive outside the city of Providence so you can easily stay in the town and visit this place for a day or more if you want. You can also find some nice views from this park overlooking the area of Providence as well.

Best time to see fall foliage in Snake Den State Park: Last 2 weeks of October (usually).

Monument Mountain (Massachusetts):

This hike isn’t far from Bish Bash Falls and is awesome for family hikes and awesome overlooks of the Catskills in the distance and other mountain ranges around the Massachusetts area. There is an iconic part of that hike that takes you to a beautiful summit to see all of this and for fall foliage, it’s a must see.

Unfortunately I don’t have a good photo of fall foliage in Monument Mountain but having personally done the hike here, I can tell you that there are incredible views, the hike is very nice (moderate in a few parts) and when I went there during the summer, I already saw yellow and red leaves in parts of it, making for an awesome visual experience.

Best time to see fall foliage at Monument Mountain: Mid October.

Bigelow Preserve (Maine):

A major Maine gem worth exploring year round and of course during fall foliage is Bigelow Preserve. It’s a decent sized park with an amazing lake called Flaggstaff lake as well as islands on it to explore, but the area itself has beautiful hikes to take you to overlooks of those areas and every mountain range around it.

For all foliage this is one of the top 3 places to check out in all of Maine if you ask me. Whether it be taking boat rides on Flaggstaff lake of hiking to the top of one of the peaks there, it’s well worth it. The main mountain in this area is Mount Bigelow which has hiking trails that take you to the summit. I have not visited this place yet and like with Monument Mountain don’t have a good picture of fall foliage here, but I can promise you it’s amazing (just look at any photo of this place if you want proof).

Best time to see peak fall foliage at Bigelow Preserve: Early through mid October usually.

Town of Kent (Connecticut):

I’m including Kent as the only town to see fall foliage in on this list for a simple reason:

The town itself is just a small portion of what you can see around it where the true gems are at. There are farmlands, plains, lakes, rivers, streams, decent sized mountains and trails to explore and that mix is what makes coming to this area so worth it for fall foliage. Like I said before, you should see as many towns as you can for fall foliage across New England, but the town of Kent should be on your list if you are in the Connecticut area.

Best time to see peak fall foliage at Kent: Last 3 weeks of October.

Camel’s Hump State Park (Vermont):

Camel’s Hump State Park is just below Smugglers Notch and Stowe (mentioned earlier in this list for great fall foliage locations) and yes, this is another Vermont gem to see for fall colors (and any season other than winter!).

This park is amazing to explore for a number of reasons:

• If you’re into more “wild” hiking and exploring, this is a great place for that.
• There are awesome hiking trails but you may want to check out my how to find easy trails near me post to see specific options.
• The overlooks and summit hikes here are incredible and while there’s mountain ranges everywhere, you are basically in between Smugglers Notch and the mountains there (north of the park) and Green Mountain National Forest and the peaks there (south of this).
• And of course, need I add how beautiful this place looks during the fall?

Best time to see peak fall foliage at Camel’s Hump State Park: Early through mid October.

Railroad Truss Bridge (New Hampshire):

The last option on this list takes us back to New Hampshire and another major gem I’ve seen many times across social media. It’s a famous train bridge where peak fall foliage is absolutely stunning to check out. Very recently I finally discovered that this place is called Railroad Truss Bridge and it’s a short “hike” from the road to reach.

The railroad is active so I would be careful, but this is a very famous spot to explore and it’s actually close to Crawford Notch State Park where the other train ride for fall foliage is located at (as well as a nice looking trestle). I’m not sure if the railroads between that park and this area intersect, but it doesn’t matter. What matters is that for fall foliage, this is one of the best spots to explore in New Hampshire and New England and it’s a great spot to conclude this list with!

Best time to see peak fall foliage at Camel’s Hump State Park: Early October through 3rd week of it.

Quick questions about checking out fall foliage leaves across New England:

What is the best time for fall foliage in new england.

It all depends on which New England state you visit. Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island have peak fall foliage early October while Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine are late September through mid October.

Where is the best fall foliage in New England?

Generally speaking New Hampshire has the best fall foliage in all of New England, although every state in this region has tons of beautiful spots to see it at as well.

Would love to hear your thoughts on the spots I listed in this post on the best places to see fall foliage in New England and if you also have any of your own personal suggestions!

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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12 comments.

Been scouring a ton of sources for the best places to see the transition to the fall season in/around New Hampshire, gotta say, it’s great to see these different parks and whatnot – it’s a blast to read through!

The Crawford train tour is what we’ve got our eyes on, do you know if the stops along the way or the main stop would allow for getting on some of the different trails easily? Like, are the main ones by the train bridge then? I assume it’s one main stop after the tour and it’d be cake to get to the different trails, just wondered if you knew anything specific about the route to elaborate on.

Awesome showcase, Vitaliy! Went ahead and got into your newsletter! 👍

Hi Colton, my guess is that the train ride makes several stops, like a shuttle allowing you to get out in different spots that may have hikes nearby, but overall it travels in a loop fashion so people can get the full experience if they choose to. I’ll have to personally check it out to see if that is the case, but at this point I’ll have to wait another year before that opportunity pops up!

Being an ex-New Yorker the one thing my wife and I miss are long drives upstate NY and New England. Reading this article brought back a lot of memories for us. It also made us want to go back and visit since we miss this time of year so much up in New England. Your article gives us a lot of great ideas. We are planning to go back soon so we can catch the fall foliage. Thank you for all your wonderful suggestions. Love your site with your articles!

Thanks Mike!

Hey Vitaliy,

My wife and I love to go hiking and to travel, and the upstate US area has some of the most beautiful places to see in the country. 

I’m sad to say I haven’t heard about any of the places you mentioned in your site until now, and I appreciate the education of those areas (Making travel plans already.) We love nature so much, and some of the views you posted are truly breathtaking.

I also appreciate your use of maps to find these locations easier, and I GREALY appreciate your use of links to reach more information about each area. Thank you so much for sharing!

Happy that this post helps your travel adventures further Mark! Let me know if you find any other awesome places you think about be a good addition to this list or in general worth exploring 🙂

This is a wonderful and informative article. It was especially helpful that you included the times of the year to best see the foliage. I had no idea there were so many state parks. These pictures are beautiful. 

My husband and I were trying to decide where to go on vacation next fall, and you helped us decide. Rhode Island, here we come! Have you traveled to all of these places yourself? Is there any particular place you prefer? I am on my way to check out your article on Texas next.

Hi Brandy, I’ve been to every state and many places on this list on this list except Rhode Island ironically. However I have yet to explore these places during the fall. Next week I have a weekend trip up to Vermont (Smugglers Notch) to hopefully still catch some great fall foliage views.

I was just talking with my friend/colleague the other day about her next travel destination this fall. She loves to travel and she usually does it during the fall season mainly because it’s her favorite season of the year. But what she loves the most about fall is foliage.

She has been to different places that have the best fall foliage in the US such as Colorado, Montana, and Michigan, and she is wondering where to go this fall. New England seems like a great place for my friend to visit. 

Looking at these beautiful pictures of fall foliage in New England, I am pretty sure my friend will have a great time no matter which state she would choose. 

But if I were to choose even just two places for her, I would go with Crawford Notch State Park in New Hampshire and Acadia National Park in Maine.

Very informative post, thank you, Vitaliy.

Yeah those other places your friend has been to have amazing fall foliage too Alice and I plan to visit them too someday but she can’t go wrong with any spot in New England (or New York for that matter). Give her this list and it’ll further enhance her already already huge fall foliage experiences 🙂

I have seen the fall foliage in Massachusetts while living there. While traveling from PA to Boston, the car ride gives a spectacular view of New England’s fall. 

However, I have never stayed anywhere just to see the fall foliage. From your list, I like all these places and especially feel attracted to Vermont. In the future, we may plan something to stay in Vermont during the fall. It is useful to know so many places one can visit in one place so the planning will be easier.

Any state in New England has several amazing places to view fall foliage but certainly a car drive on any road there will also deliver! 

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21 Fall Foliage Trips in New England You Need to Take

• August 2024

Crisp air, fiery leaves, and the magic of New England in fall—who wouldn’t want to capture that?

But picking the perfect spot can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack of golden leaves. Whether you're after a peaceful nature retreat, explore local history or a family-friendly adventure, we've got you covered.

Explore 21 handpicked destinations that offer the best of autumn—from Vermont’s colorful mountains to Rhode Island’s scenic coastlines. Get ready to make this fall unforgettable!

1. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a charming mountain town known as the "Ski Capital of the East." In fall, the ski slopes turn into a colorful canvas.

Drive along the winding Route 100, nicknamed the "Skiers' Highway," to see golden maples and red oaks. The Stowe Recreation Path offers a car-free way to enjoy nature.

It follows the West Branch River past old farms and covered bridges. Don't miss the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival in early October.

Here, you can watch local artists work and try Vermont treats like maple syrup and cider donuts.

2. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is famous for its fancy old mansions and beautiful ocean views. In the fall, the weather is perfect for exploring.

Take a walk on the Cliff Walk, a path that goes along the edge of the ocean. You'll see big waves on one side and huge, fancy houses on the other.

Newport loves sailing. You might see colorful sailboats in the harbor. In October, visit the Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival.

Here, you can try fresh seafood and listen to live music right by the water.

3. Salem, Connecticut

Salem is a small town with lots of history. The Salem Historic District shows what life was like long ago.

Visit Gardner Lake State Park to see pretty fall colors reflected in the lake. You can have a picnic or go fishing here.

At Devil's Hopyard State Park, see a waterfall surrounded by colorful trees. In October, don't miss the Salem Apple Festival.

You can taste different kinds of apples, watch people make apple cider, and enjoy fun games.

4. Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit means "beautiful place by the sea" in the Native American language. In fall, it lives up to its name.

Walk along Marginal Way, a path on the cliffs above the ocean. The blue water and colorful trees make a pretty picture.

Visit Perkins Cove, a tiny fishing village with cute shops and restaurants. Ogunquit Beach is still nice in fall for long walks.

All month long, enjoy "Fall for Ogunquit" events. Later in October, OgunquitFest has pumpkin decorating and a costume parade.

5. Warren, New Hampshire

Warren is a quiet town in the White Mountains. It's perfect for people who love nature and want to avoid crowds.

Hike up to Wachipauka Pond for amazing views of fall colors. The pond sits high in the mountains and reflects the trees.

For an easier walk, try the Moosilauke Carriage Road. This old road was built for horses and carriages long ago.

Visit the Warren Historical Society to learn about the town's past. The building itself is from 1808 and has interesting artifacts.

6. Glastonbury, Connecticut

Glastonbury sits along the Connecticut River. Riverfront Park is a great place to enjoy fall colors and river views.

Visit the Connecticut Audubon Society Center to learn about local birds. You might see birds getting ready to fly south for winter.

Walk around the Glastonbury Historic District to see old houses and buildings. Some are from the 1600s and 1700s.

In mid-October, don't miss the Glastonbury Apple Harvest & Music Festival. You can try apple pies, listen to music, and go on carnival rides.

7. Princeton, Massachusetts (Wachusett Mountain)

Wachusett Mountain is the highest point in Massachusetts, east of the Connecticut River. In the fall, the views are amazing.

Take the SkyRide to the top of the mountain without hiking. You'll see colorful trees for miles around.

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation has trails for all skill levels. You can see wild animals and interesting plants.

Visit local farms and orchards to pick apples and pumpkins. In late October, enjoy Applefest at Wachusett Mountain, which features games and treats.

8. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington sits on the shore of Lake Champlain. In fall, the lake reflects the colorful trees on its banks.

Walk down Church Street in downtown Burlington. This car-free area has shops, restaurants, and street performers.

Ride a bike on the Burlington Bike Path. It goes along the lake and through parks with great views.

Visit the farmers' market to try local fall foods. You might find maple products, apple cider, and pumpkin treats.

9. Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Sturbridge is home to Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum. Here, visitors can experience life in the 1830s.

Watch people dressed in old-fashioned clothes do fall activities like harvesting crops and making apple cider.

Visit Wells State Park to see fall colors reflected in Walker Pond. You can hike, fish, or have a picnic here.

In fall, Old Sturbridge Village hosts "Phantoms By Firelight" for 12 nights. You can hear spooky stories and see the village at night.

10. Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly is a beach town that's still fun in fall. Misquamicut State Beach is less crowded but still beautiful.

Walk through Wilcox Park to see pretty trees and plants. The park has a pond and interesting statues.

Visit The United Theatre to see a show or movie. This old theater has been around since 1926.

Join the Columbus Day Parade to see floats and marching bands. You can also go apple picking at nearby orchards.

11. Fryeburg, Maine

Fryeburg is famous for its big fair, which lasts for eight days and features farm animals, rides, and lots of food.

Canoe or kayak on the Saco River to see fall colors from the water. The river is calm and good for beginners.

Climb Jockey Cap Rock for a great view of the White Mountains. It's a short, easy hike with a big reward.

Visit local farms to pick apples and pumpkins. You might even see moose in the fields early in the morning.

12. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is an old seaport with lots of history. Prescott Park has pretty gardens and views of the Piscataqua River.

Visit Strawbery Banke Museum to see houses from the 1600s to the 1900s. People in old-fashioned clothes show how life used to be.

Walk around the old neighborhoods to see beautiful fall trees and historic buildings. Some houses are more than 300 years old.

In mid-October, enjoy the Strawbery Banke Museum Fall Festival. You can learn old-time crafts and taste historic recipes.

13. Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport is a pretty coastal town. Take a drive along Ocean Avenue to see fancy houses and ocean views.

Walk through the town to see trees full of red and orange leaves. The colors look nice next to the white church steeples.

Visit nearby beaches like Goose Rocks Beach. They're quiet in the fall and great for long walks.

Take a short trip to York, Maine, for the HarvestFest. There, you can watch pumpkin carving and attend a parade.

14. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock looks like a picture-perfect New England town. The village green is surrounded by colorful maple trees in fall.

Visit the Billings Farm & Museum to see a working dairy farm. You can watch cows being milked and try fresh cheese.

Take a short drive to see the Quechee Gorge, known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon." The fall colors make it even prettier.

In October, enjoy the Apples & Crafts Fair. You can buy handmade items and taste different kinds of apples grown nearby.

15. North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway is located in the heart of the White Mountains, a great place to see fall colors.

Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad through the countryside. The old-fashioned train gives you great views of the colorful forests.

Drive the Kancamagus Highway, one of the best fall foliage routes in New England. There are lots of spots to stop and take photos.

Visit the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center to learn about the area's famous extreme weather.

16. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park offers some of the most stunning fall scenery in New England. The red and gold leaves contrast with the blue ocean.

Drive or bike up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. On clear days, you can see for miles.

Walk along Ocean Path to see waves crashing against rocky cliffs. The path goes by famous spots like Thunder Hole.

In October, visit nearby Bar Harbor for the Acadia Night Sky Festival. You can stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the East.

17. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

The Litchfield Hills region is full of charming small towns and beautiful countryside. Drive along Route 7 to see covered bridges and farms.

Visit Kent Falls State Park to see a series of waterfalls surrounded by fall colors. There's an easy trail with lookout points.

Stop in the town of Kent to visit art galleries and antique shops. Kent was voted one of the best fall foliage towns in New England.

In October, enjoy the Garlic and Harvest Festival in nearby Bethlehem. You can try all kinds of garlic dishes and buy local crafts.

18. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires are known for fall colors, art, and music. The region has many small towns nestled in beautiful hills.

Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge to see paintings of classic New England scenes.

Take a hike in Mount Greylock State Reservation, home to Massachusetts's highest point. The views from the top are amazing in the fall.

In October, enjoy the Hancock Shaker Village Country Fair. You can see farm animals, try old-fashioned crafts, and eat local food.

19. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

The Mohawk Trail (Route 2) is one of the oldest scenic roads in New England. It runs through the northern Berkshires.

Stop at the famous Hairpin Turn for a great view of the Hoosac Valley. On clear days, you can see three states from here.

Visit the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls. This old trolley bridge is covered with flowers that bloom into the fall.

In October, check out the Mohawk Trail Concerts for classical music in beautiful settings.

20. Franconia Notch, New Hampshire

Franconia Notch is a mountain pass in the White Mountains. It's home to some of New Hampshire's most famous natural wonders.

Take the aerial tramway up Cannon Mountain for amazing views of the surrounding mountains and their fall colors.

Visit the Flume Gorge, a natural granite ravine with waterfalls. The wooden walkways let you get close to the rushing water.

In fall, you might spot moose near Profile Lake. This is also where you can learn about the famous "Old Man of the Mountain" rock formation.

21. Grafton, Vermont

Grafton is a tiny village that looks like it's frozen in time. The entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Walk down Main Street to see restored 19th-century buildings. The red and gold leaves make the white churches and inns look even prettier.

Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company to watch cheesemakers at work. You can taste different kinds of cheddar made right there.

Explore Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center for fall activities. You can go mountain biking, hiking, or canoeing surrounded by colorful trees.

In October, check out the Grafton Ponds Fall Festival. It has pumpkin carving, hay rides, and a chili cook-off with local recipes.

Ready to Fall for New England?

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there's no better time to explore the wonders of New England.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant colors, rich history, or cozy festivals, these 21 destinations offer something for everyone.

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop, it’s time to start planning your perfect fall escape!

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When will fall foliage colors peak in New England? What the Old Farmer's Almanac predicts

School is back in session and pumpkin spice is back in your cup, which means all that's left to make it officially feel like fall is the auburn colors of New England's foliage.

When will fall foliage peak in New England? The Old Farmer's Almanac has released its forecast for leaf-peeping season, and it's shaping up to be a good one.

While the leaves change anytime between mid-September to November, the exact timing depends on where you live. The Old Farmer's Almanac's fall forecast for color changes around the country is out, and it has a prediction for New England.

Here's when the Old Farmer's Almanac expects fall foliage will peak in New England.

When will fall foliage peak in New England?

Peak leaf colors generally show up in October, the Old Farmer's Almanac said.

In New England this year, the publication predicts foliage will be at or near its peak on Oct. 11.

Where can you see the best fall foliage in New England?

The Old Farmer's Almanac's fall foliage forecast also included the publication's recommendations for where to see the best colors this year.

Here's where it suggests visiting in New England:

• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Kancamagus Highway, White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Connecticut River Valley, S.E. Connecticut
• Green Mountain Byway, Vermont
• The Berkshires, Massachusetts

How does the Old Farmer's Almanac make predictions?

The Old Farmer's Almanac says on its website that it makes its predictions by comparing solar activity with weather patterns.

The publication also says it uses multiple academic disciplines to make predictions, including solar science, climatology and meteorology.

The Almanac says its weather forecast methodology is a modern formula based on the one created in 1792 by its founder, Robert B. Thomas.

How accurate is the Old Farmer's Almanac?

The Old Farmer's Almanac, which is slightly different from the Farmers' Almanac,  claims on its website that its predictions are 80% accurate.

The Almanac said in a  report  on its website that its predictions for last winter's weather were 64% accurate, attributing the lower rate to "abnormal recent weather patterns."

This Is The Most Underrated State In New England For Fall

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• This small New England state is underrated for fall foliage due to its lack of mountains and having a later peak season.
• Peak foliage occurs in October due to weather and tree types, unlike other New England states.
• Top places to view colorful fall leaves here include coastal towns and the state's capital.

Autumn is just around the corner, which means plans are being made to enjoy all the activities New England has to offer in the fall . Be it spending time at bed and breakfast inns that help to ring in the season or taking scenic hikes to see the sea of color fall brings , the moment September is flipped on the calendar, the anticipation begins for peak leaf-peeping season for New England.

But there's one underrated state in New England for the fall that is passed over year after year, despite having a beautiful display of colors. Because of this, it may just be one of the best-kept secrets in the region.

New Hampshire, Maine, and Maine are all known for their gorgeous road trips to ring in fall . One state that consistently is off the list of places to visit for the season is Rhode Island. Despite being part of New England, Rhode Island only receives a small fraction of the visitors who come to see the fall foliage that other states in the region do.

But those in the know, know Rhode Island has incredible fall foliage to share with the golden yellows, fiery reds, and vibrant oranges just like other states. What it also offers, is fewer crowds, leading to more opportunities to enjoy the colors of fall in peace.

7 New England Fall Hikes Better Than Acadia

While fall in Maine's Acadia National Park is gorgeous, these other New England hikes have the same great leaf peeping with fewer crowds.

Rhode Island Is The Most Underrated State In New England For Fall

Rhode island has no mountains that allow for different views of the fall foliage.

Rhode Island is the most underrated state in New England when it comes to fall. There are a few reasons why this is the case, but the biggest reasons are that the state is fairly flat and the season for fall foliage is different from the rest of the other New England states.

As a result of Rhode Island not having the mountain ranges that other New England states have , the ability to see the fall colors from a variety of vantage points is non-existent. But with more than half of Rhode Island being forestland , there are plenty of opportunities to be enveloped in all colors of the fall, even if that means having to look at the forests from afar or from the ground up.

Additionally, Rhode Island's peak fall season is different from other New England states. Because of this, when visitors are driving through New England to see the fall colors, Rhode Island doesn't make the list because the leaves are still green. But, for those who want to beat the crowds when it comes to seeing the fall foliage, Rhode Island might just be the best state to do so.

10 New England Cities To Visit This Fall That Actually Feel Like Small Towns

Experience the cozy charm of New England in the fall by exploring these delightful cities with an inviting small-town ambiance.

Rhode Island's Fall Foliage Peaks At A Different Time Than Other New England States

Rhode island's fall foliage peaks in october versus september, like other new england states.

Rhode Island may be incredibly close to other New England states, but it's on its own time when it comes to peak fall colors. This could have something to do with why Rhode Island isn't as popular as other New England states known for their beautiful colors .

States like New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Vermont all have a very similar schedule with their leaves changing colors from green to oranges, red, and yellows. That time frame is generally mid-September after the leaves have begun their process in late August to early September.

Rhode Island, on the other hand, doesn't have peak fall foliage until mid-October. This has to do with two factors, which include the weather and the types of trees in Rhode Island.

Weather In Rhode Island

The weather in Rhode Island doesn't start to get crisp until October, whereas in other New England states the cooldown starts in September. While this bodes well for a fantastic backdrop when out trick-or-treating in Rhode Island, once October rolls around, most people who want to visit the New England area for the fall colors have transitioned into getting prepared for Halloween and future holidays.

Trees Native To Rhode Island Have Been Removed

At some point, many areas, especially coastal towns, decided to take out trees that are native to Rhode Island and replace them with ones from Asia and Europe, according to Professor Keith Killingbeck of the University of Rhode Island. As such, there are fall colors, but they're not as vibrant and the trees aren't all in sync.

Trees from other parts of the world may still have nice fall color but their clock is out of sequence with our native trees and other introduced trees, so you don't have the collective impact that a stand of native birches, maples, and oaks would have. —Professor Keith Killingbeck

Even though there are these challenges, Rhode Island still puts on an incredible show when it comes to fall foliage for those who know where to look.

New England's Finest Foliage: 10 Best New Hampshire State Parks To Visit In The Fall

Admire the beauty of fall foliage in New Hampshire, from famous state parks to less-crowded and more peaceful scenic locations.

Best Places To See The Fall Foliage In Rhode Island

Rhode island offers several different vantage points to see foliage in the fall.

While fall colors can be seen throughout Rhode Island, there are some pockets in the state that are more vibrant than others. By most accounts, the three towns to see the best fall foliage in Rhode Island are Jamestown, Bristol, and Providence.

Jamestown, Rhode Island

It doesn't get much better than Jamestown when it comes to the scenery for taking in the vibrant colors of fall. With a backdrop of Narragansett Bay and seeing the foliage at sunrise or sunset, Jamestown may be one of the top spots in the nation to see the leaf colors pop.

The best locations in Jamestown to see fall foliage include:

In addition to being able to see the vibrant colors from the trees, historic sites can be explored on short hikes as well.

Bristol, Rhode Island

Bristol offers visitors a variety of locations to see the fall foliage when it is at its peak. Be it hiking, biking, or exploring historic sites, fall colors can be found just about everywhere in the town.

The best locations in Bristol to see the fall foliage include:

With the different locales in Bristol to see the fall leaves, there's a perfect picture and adventure for everyone who visits.

Providence, Rhode Island

The entire town of Providence comes alive with color during the fall. But, if you're looking for one location to see the fall foliage, it's Prospect Terrace Park. Not only will visitors get a bit of the city's history, but you'll also be able to see the colors pop during October.

While it may not be the traditional location to see fall foliage, Rhode Island still has glorious fall leaves to offer visitors. With the season being a month later than the rest of New England, it extends the fall beauty of the region and makes the beginning of the holiday season just a bit more vibrant.

Essential Fall Drives in New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region

A leaf peeper’s guide to navigating the prettiest back roads in this part of the Granite State.

By Mel Allen

Aug 25 2024

Rising more than 3,100 feet above the towns, fields, and forests of southwestern New Hampshire, Mount Monadnock is frequently visible on fall foliage drives in its namesake region.

In the September/October issue of Yankee , editor Mel Allen takes readers on a pair of back-road autumn drives in the place he calls home, New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region. Here, he recaps those same routes with turn-by-turn instructions, plus a few extra local gems you’ll find along the way.

Drive #1: Peterborough Loop

Begin with a morning hawk watch at Miller State Park , about 4 miles east of Peterborough on Route 101. (For a sweet refueling stop, Ben’s Sugar Shack and Maple Station Market is less than 2 miles farther east on 101 — time your visit right, and you can pick up some warm, fresh-made maple doughnuts.) 

Now, start your drive:

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• Go west on 101 to downtown Peterborough , where you can explore one of America’s best small towns.

• Go east on 101 for about 1 mile, then turn right onto Route 123. You’ll pass Rosaly’s Garden & Farmstand , the state’s first organic farm stand (open till Oct. 1), and Casalis State Forest , a nature preserve with a 3-mile walking loop.

• After 5 miles, turn left onto Nashua Road. This becomes West Road and leads into the heart of Temple , where highlights include Temple Village Cemetery (with its famous archway dedicated to “The Wives and Mothers of 1776”), and a village green bandstand that’s home to the Temple Town Band , the oldest in the country. A historical sign across from the green gives another hit of history: This is where the Temple Glass Factory , founded in 1780, became the first glassmaker in New Hampshire.

• Go east on General Miller Highway/Temple Road about 3 miles to West Wilton. On this two-lane country road you’ll pass the former home of one of New England’s most distinguished soldiers, General James Miller , who lived here from 1815-1851. (Nathaniel Hawthorne was a frequent visitor.) In West Wilton , another historical sign tells you that this modest spot was once home to thriving mills that made everything from milk can stoppers to knobs and cider. You’ll also see signs for Sheldrick Forest Preserve , a nearby Nature Conservancy property with three miles of trails through old-growth forest.

• Continue briefly on Temple Road to Route 101. Turn right and head east on 101 for about 2 miles. Turn right onto Isaac Frye Highway and head south 1.6 miles. Turn left onto Abbott Hill Road, then proceed 1 mile to Hilltop Café . The drive to Hilltop Café, one of our favorite eateries, is extra-special in autumn, as you meander past farm meadows and century-old farmhouses.

• From Hilltop Café, turn right onto Abbot Hill Road and head north to Route 101. Take a right onto 101, then a quick left onto Route 31 N. At about 1.8 miles veer left onto Burton Highway. Look for the sign for Fryes Measure Mill . A living historical treasure, Fryes Measure Mill makes Colonial- and Shaker-style boxes using much of the same water-powered machinery from its beginnings in the 1850s.

• Return to Route 31 N and turn left. Continue north 9 miles, then turn right onto Route 136E. Continue 5 miles to Francestown. This part of the drive leads through Lyndeborough and Greenfield , where you’ll pass Zephyr Lake (stop at its canoe launch to view foliage reflected in the water). In Francestown , discover streets lined with handsome homes, a stunner of a while church, and the must-visit Francestown Village Store .  

• From Francestown, pick up Route 136 W, which becomes Forest Road and takes you Main Street in Hancock, about 11 miles total. The quintessential New England village, Hancock boasts a pretty downtown lake called Norway Pond, and shares 718-acre Nubanusit Lake with the village of Nelson. Fiddleheads Café is a local dining favorite; a few steps away is Main Street Cheese , whose goats you can visit in the backyard meadow.

• Go west on Main Street and turn left onto Old Dublin Road, then right on Kings Highway, to the Harris Center for Conservation Education , about 2 miles total (be alert for the center’s discreet sign). The tree-lined road will be ablaze in autumn color as you head to the center, whose staff help lead the autumn hawk watches at Miller State Park and have taught thousands of New England schoolchildren to love the natural world. All trails at the center are open to the public: West Side trails take you to gorgeous summit views on two mountains, while East Side trails let you meander along easier forest paths, with fall foliage as your constant companion.

The Harris Center is the last stop of the day before returning to Peterborough, 10 miles south.

Drive #2: Keene Loop

Begin in Keene, on the western edge of the Monadnock Region. With a population about 24,000, it’s one of those small cities that when people discover it, they wonder why they had never known about it before.  Keene’s Central Square, located at the head of one of the widest Main Streets in the country, has been honored as one of America’s best public spaces. You can easily spend hours strolling the streets, visiting shops and restaurants — and perusing thousands of jack-o’-lanterns if you’re there during October’s Keene Pumpkin Festival .

It’s not an easy town to leave on a pretty fall day, but we have some special places to visit.

• Leave Keene on Route 12 and head north to Walpole, 17 miles away. As you near Walpole, stop into Alyson’s Orchard . A long dirt road climbs from the highway to the orchard, and when you get to the top, turn around: The views west to the Connecticut River Valley are among the best views of any orchard in New England. After filling your bags with apples, continue on to downtown Walpole (look for the sign just under 4 miles north of Alyson’s, and turn right). The photogenic town of 3,600 features a town green lined with churches and country homes. If you indulge in some fine dining at The Restaurant at Burdick’s , you may well see local resident and famed documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. Next door is the L.A. Burdick’s Chocolate Shop and Café , where they will gladly warm up that chocolate chip cookie you’re buying.

• Head north on Main Street in Walpole to join Route 123, then turn right on Upper Walpole Road, then right on Whitcomb Road/Route 123 S—and stay with Route 123 S to reach East Alstead, about 13 miles away. This leg of the drive takes you past the lovely 1752 Bellows Walpole Inn & the Potato Barn and, less than a mile north of the inn, the Hungry Diner , which serves farm-to-table food, with many ingredients coming directly from the diner’s farm. (Have a pooch along? On the menu is a beef patty for your dog; outdoor seating is available, too.) From there, a gorgeous country drive follows the Cold River to East Alstead , where you can enjoy fresh-from-the-oven bread and beautiful scenery at Orchard Hill Breadworks .

• Head west from East Alstead on Route 123 S for about 14 miles, veer right onto Route 9 W for about 4.5 miles, then turn right on Granite Lake Road, left on Murdough Hill Road, left on Nelson Road, and straight on into Harrisville, about 7 more miles. As you leave East Alstead on 123 S, you’ll pass pretty Lake Warren , now protected as a wildlife preserve. In Stoddard , look for the 220-acre Pitcher Mountain Farm , which raises and sells pasture-fed bison meat. Harrisville is an exquisitely preserved 19th-century mill village with a glistening lake. Browse the weaving and knitting supplies at Harrisville Designs , and be sure to try the terrific food at Harrisville General Store , where on any given day you’ll find a Yankee staffer lingering over a lunch special before returning to the office.

• Head south from Harrisville on Dublin Road to Route 101, about 4 miles. You’re now in Dublin . Turn left, and you’ll see the headquarters of Yankee and The Old Farmers Almanac . Turn right, and in less than a mile you’ll be rewarded with the sight of Mount Monadnock rising over Dublin Lake. That setting is what has drawn artists and writers to the area for 200 years. The mountain’s pull drew Henry David Thoreau, who climbed it four times and even slept near the summit. “That New Hampshire bluff will longest haunt our dreams,” he wrote.

• Wrapping things up: You can continue west on Route 101 to return to Keene , about 12 miles distant. But there is one little detour I’d urge you to take. Reverse direction on 101, and in less than a minute take a right on Upper Jaffrey Road, which becomes Dublin Road as it leads to Route 124 and Jaffrey Center . There, stop at the historic Jaffrey Meetinghouse and the cemetery where novelist Willa Cather is buried. Then head west on 124 back toward Keene. In about 1.4 miles, on the right-hand side, the trees along the road give way to an open field with a farmhouse and barn, and you may see other cars already pulled over on the shoulder here. Everyone has a favorite view of Mount Monadnock, but the one from this spot is mine: Across the field, the southeastern flank of the mountain seems close enough to touch. There is simply no better way to end a drive through its namesake corner of the world.

Mel Allen is the fifth editor of Yankee Magazine since its beginning in 1935. His first byline in Yankee appeared in 1977 and he joined the staff in 1979 as a senior editor. Eventually he became executive editor and in the summer of 2006 became editor. During his career he has edited and written for every section of the magazine, including home, food, and travel, while his pursuit of long form story telling has always been vital to his mission as well. He has raced a sled dog team, crawled into the dens of black bears, fished with the legendary Ted Williams, profiled astronaut Alan Shephard, and stood beneath a battleship before it was launched. He also once helped author Stephen King round up his pigs for market, but that story is for another day. Mel taught fourth grade in Maine for three years and believes that his education as a writer began when he had to hold the attention of 29 children through months of Maine winters. He learned you had to grab their attention and hold it. After 12 years teaching magazine writing at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, he now teaches in the MFA creative nonfiction program at Bay Path University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Like all editors, his greatest joy is finding new talent and bringing their work to light.