New England is widely regarded as one of the top destinations to visit during the fall season. Its stunning resorts, breathtaking foliage, pleasant weather, and exciting road trips offer an unforgettable experience for travelers. Before embarking on your journey to one of the six states, here is everything you need to go before you travel to New England in the fall.
About New England in the Fall
Fall in New England is a magical time of year. As the heat of summer fades away, and the chill of winter looms on the horizon, the landscape undergoes a stunning transformation. The once lush green trees morph into a vibrant display of colors, ranging from fiery oranges and reds to rich yellows and purples.
Not to mention, to complete the New England fall experience, there are a few activities that are a must-try.
When autumn arrives, pumpkin patches and corn mazes become a popular New England fall activity. These farms usually even have farm animals you can meet. For those who crave a more hands-on experience, apple orchards offer the opportunity to pick your own apples. After a day of apple picking, make sure to try apple cider donuts or some fresh pressed cider.
New England States
New England is a region located in the northeastern part of the United States. The region is known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and distinct cultural identity.
One of the defining characteristics of New England is its colonial history. The area played a significant role in the early days of the United States, with many of the country’s founding fathers hailing from this region.
New England consists of six states:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
New England Weather in the Fall
When it comes to weather, New England in the fall boasts crisp and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. However, it’s important to pack accordingly. Sweaters, jackets, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for enjoying the various attractions and activities.
Weather conditions can change rapidly from day to day and from state to state in New England. It is crucial to be well-prepared for the various temperature shifts throughout the day. Mornings can be quite chilly, requiring you to dress in layers and bundle up. As the day progresses, the temperature rises, resulting in warm and pleasant afternoons. However, the warmth may not last, and the evenings can bring cold nights.
Where Should I Go to New England in the Fall?
Our top picks of where to go in New England in the fall are Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. These five states stand out as the ultimate places to go for a New England fall trip because of their fall festivals, breathtaking scenery, cute shops, fall foliage, and more.
New England Fall Foliage
One of the main attractions of visiting New England in the fall is the mesmerizing foliage. As the leaves change colors, the entire region transforms into a picturesque autumn wonderland. From vibrant reds and oranges to golden yellows, the foliage offers a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and even scenic drives.
Best Places to See the Fall Colors in Every New England State
The national parks, mountains, and forests offered in New England have lots of trees which means the fall foliage is incredible. Here are some of the best places to visit in New England in the fall.
White Mountain National Forest is located in New Hampshire and Maine. The Franconia Notch State Park is a great place on the New Hampshire side of the White Mountains perfect for taking in the fall foliage season.
Maine Acadia National Park, situated in coastal Maine, is a breathtaking destination that should not be missed. This recreational area is primarily located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. With its stunning coastline and diverse natural beauty, Maine Acadia National Park offers visitors a remarkable experience.
For gorgeous fall color in the mountains, the Green Mountains in Vermont are a natural wonder, spanning across the entire length of the state. These majestic mountains form a long chain, consisting of 657 named peaks, each with its unique characteristics and beauty.
Lincoln Woods State Park in Rhode Island is renowned for its breathtaking views of the fall foliage. Nature enthusiasts and photographers flock to this park to witness the vibrant colors. One of the park’s standout features is Olney Pond, a stunning 128-acre reservoir nestled in the heart of Lincoln Woods State Park.
A main attraction in Massachusetts is Mount Greylock, the highest point in the state. This majestic mountain is part of the Taconic Mountains range and offers breathtaking views of fall colors.
Connecticut, known as the “Constitution State,” offers numerous natural attractions for visitors to explore. When it comes to experiencing the vibrant fall foliage, two noteworthy destinations stand out – Sleeping Giant at Hamden State Park and Mt Tom State Park in Litchfield Hills.
When is Peak Foliage Season in New England?
New England fall foliage peaks in late September into early October. However, if you want to visit New England in early September, mid-October, or even early November, you won’t completely miss the fall colors. If you can plan your trip from late September into early October, you will get to experience the best leaf peeping.
Read more: Fall Vacation Ideas For Enjoying Autumn Foliage!
Best Places for a New England Road Trip in the Fall
If you plan to fly to New England, you are going to want to get a rental car because one of the best ways to experience the beauty of New England in the fall is through road trips. The region is known for its scenic drives, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and charming coastal towns.
Popular routes include the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway in Massachusetts, and the Coastal Route 1 in Maine. Whether you take a direct route or want to stop to visit all the small towns along the way, a New England fall road trip won’t disappoint.
Read more: 4 Best Ski Resorts in New England and Where to Stay Nearby!
Best Hiking Trails for a New England Fall Trip
Make sure to pack your hiking boots during your fall trip to New England because there are so many fabulous places to hike. Here are some of the top hiking trails.
Chimney Pond Trail, located in Mount Katahdin, Maine, is a popular hiking trail in Baxter State Park. With a length of approximately 6.3 miles and an elevation gain of around 1,463 feet, this trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to see peak foliage season in northern Maine, Chimney Pond Trail is great.
Artists Bluff is a scenic rocky ledge that offers breathtaking views of Echo Lake and Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire. If you want to take a hike here, Flume Gorge Loop is a moderate loop trail, located within the park. With a length of 2.2 miles and an elevation gain of approximately 482 feet, the trail is perfect for people who want a shorter hike.
Whether you are looking to go on a short walk or try out long hiking trails, New England during fall is the best time to do it no matter which state you visit.
Read more: Best Mountain Vacations for Hikers!
Where to Travel and Stay for a New England Fall Trip
Let’s take a look at the best states to visit for your New England fall trip and where to stay nearby.
Maine in the Fall
The Maine coast is a great place to visit during the fall. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant autumn foliage, it is no wonder that many visitors are drawn to this charming New England state. From biking and boating to fishing and hiking, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to embark on. Of course, no trip to Maine would be complete without savoring a classic lobster roll. Known for its tasty lobster meat wrapped in a buttery roll, this iconic New England dish is a must-try. Bar Harbor, in particular, is renowned for its lobster rolls, which are often hailed as some of the best in the country.
Where to Stay in Maine
Massachusetts in the Fall
The Berkshires, located in the western part of Massachusetts, is a charming rural region that offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Another must-visit destination in Massachusetts is Cape Cod. Located on the eastern coast, Cape Cod is a glorious area known for its stunning beaches, charming lighthouses, and quaint towns. For those seeking a city feel, you should explore Boston for a few nights. As the capital of Massachusetts, Boston is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene. One of the must-do activities in Boston is walking the Freedom Trail, which takes you through 16 historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
Where to Stay in Massachusettes
Read more: Enjoy a Massachusetts Getaway at Vacation Village in The Berkshires!
New Hampshire in the Fall
While it boasts beautiful landscapes all year round, it is during the fall season that the state truly comes alive with vibrant colors and breathtaking scenery. From the iconic Kancamagus Highway to the Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire in the fall offers fun throughout the state. New Hampshire’s White Mountains are home to some of the state’s most iconic peaks, such as Mount Washington and Mount Adams. This region offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and stunning fall scenery.
Where to Stay in New Hampshire
Rhode Island in the Fall
Rhode Island, despite being the smallest state in the United States, offers a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy during the fall season. One of the delightful experiences that awaits visitors is exploring the charming towns scattered throughout the state. Newport, for example, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and historic mansions. Another charming town to check out is Bristol. In Bristol, you can immerse yourself in the town’s rich history by exploring the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, a beautifully preserved estate that showcases stunning gardens and a mansion.
Where to Stay in Rhode Island
Read more: Best Places to Travel in The Fall: Resort Edition!
Vermont in the Fall
Vermont is one of the best places to visit in New England during the fall. As mentioned above, the White Mountain National Forest is fabulous, especially during peak foliage. If you love to be outdoors there are plenty of things to do from biking to hiking. Not to mention, there are stunning lakes and a wide range of wildlife. Montgomery, Vermont is the perfect place to take a road trip. As the “Covered Bridge Capital,” make sure to stop by the covered bridges for a photo.
Where to Stay in Vermont
- Wyndham Vacation Club Smugglers Notch
- Trapp Family Lodge And Guest Houses
- The Season Resort At Sugarbush
Buy a Timeshare and Visit New England Every Fall
Do you want to make an annual tradition to visit New England in the fall? If so, buying a timeshare might be right up your alley. With a timeshare, you get to stay in a fabulous resort with spacious accommodations and fun amenities. To browse our timeshares for sale, click here. Once you find a timeshare that best fits your needs, simply make an offer.
If you have any questions, give us a call at 1 (800) 410-8326. We’d be happy to help.
