Where To Go This Fall In New England
This content may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our disclaimer.
New England in the fall is world-famous for its breathtaking foliage, charming small towns, and crisp autumn air. From scenic drives and hiking to seasonal festivals and local harvests, the region offers something for every fall traveler. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best ways to experience New England’s iconic autumn season.
B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill in Connecticut
Tucked away in Mystic, Connecticut, this is the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the U.S. and a must-visit fall destination. From fresh-pressed apple cider to warm cider donuts and hard ciders, it offers a true taste of New England tradition. It’s best to visit during the week if you can because this place does get super crowded.
Learn more about visiting: B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill
Loon Mountain Resort in New Hampshire
Loon Mountain Resort in New Hampshire offers some of the best fall foliage views in the Northeast, paired with outdoor adventures for all ages. From scenic gondola rides to hiking trails and mountain biking, it’s a perfect getaway for leaf-peepers and thrill-seekers alike.
Discover more to do in the area: 11 Fall Weekend Ideas In The White Mountains Of New Hampshire
Lake Willoughby in Vermont
Lake Willoughby in Vermont is a stunning fall destination known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. Surrounded by vibrant foliage and quiet trails, it’s ideal for hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the autumn scenery. When I went, I hiked Mount Pisgah, and it offered great views of the lake from above!
Dog Mountain in Vermont
Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, Vermont is a unique and heartwarming destination that becomes especially beautiful in the fall. With open fields, scenic trails, and vibrant foliage, it’s a peaceful place for both people and their dogs to explore. I stopped here on my way to Quebec for a foliage weekend getaway.
Litchfield County in Connecticut
Litchfield County, Connecticut is a top fall destination known for its rolling hills, charming towns, and vibrant foliage. From scenic drives to farm stands and hiking trails, it offers the perfect blend of outdoor beauty and New England charm. I spent one fall climbing three stone towers that offered great views in the area.
Seaside Sanatorium in Connecticut
This spot in Waterford, Connecticut offers a striking mix of coastal beauty and eerie, abandoned architecture, making it a great spot to visit during spooky season. With cooler weather and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore the grounds, take photos, and enjoy the dramatic shoreline.
Learn more about visiting: Seaside Sanatorium
Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts
Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts offers an authentic look at 19th-century New England life, made even more picturesque by the colors of fall. With seasonal activities, costumed historians, and foliage-covered grounds, it’s a perfect autumn outing for families and history lovers alike. You can easily spend an entire day here!
Historic Wethersfield in Connecticut
Old Wethersfield, Connecticut’s oldest historic district, offers classic New England charm with its colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and small-town feel. In the fall, the vibrant foliage adds to the beauty of its preserved homes, shops, and scenic walking routes. They also have their Scarecrows Along Main event, which is fun to see as you walk through town.
Learn more about visiting Connecticut in the fall: 13 Things To Do In Connecticut This Fall
Historic Deerfield in Massachusetts
Historic Deerfield in Massachusetts is a standout fall destination, combining rich colonial history with vibrant autumn scenery. Visitors can explore preserved homes, walk tree-lined streets, and learn about early American life through engaging exhibits and tours. It really feels like stepping back in time here.
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont comes alive in the fall with colorful foliage, vibrant local markets, and scenic waterfront views. From outdoor adventures to farm-to-table dining, the city offers a perfect mix of nature and culture.
Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation in Massachusetts
Mount Sugarloaf in Massachusetts offers stunning panoramic views of vibrant fall foliage from its summit. Popular for hiking and scenic drives, it’s an ideal spot to experience the colors of autumn up close. You’ll get great views of the Connecticut River, surrounding mountains, and the town of Sunderland, MA from the summit.
Old New-Gate Prison in Connecticut
Old New-Gate Prison in Connecticut offers a unique blend of history. Visitors can explore the site’s underground mine tours and prison exhibits during their visit. In the fall, they have their Jack O’ Lantern Experience down in the mine and it’s a fun and unique experience for families!
Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts is a top fall destination known for its rich history and spooky Halloween spirit. With historic sites, themed events, and vibrant fall foliage, the city offers a unique autumn experience. Since it is a popular fall spot, keep in mind that you will have to deal with crowds if you go.
Newport, vermont
Newport, Vermont shines in the fall with its stunning lake views and colorful foliage. Outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and scenic drives make it a perfect autumn getaway. And since this town is so close to the Canadian border, bring your passport with you and pop into Quebec to enjoy foliage along the lake in Magog.
I live in New England and have been too many of the places you list. I don’t usually go to Connecticut for fall foliage, but your ideas there make me want to explore that area.
I second your recommendation of Lake Willoughby, Newport, and Dog mountain. All stunning in the fall. Your photography is beautiful.
I might be biased because I live here in Connecticut, but really there are so many great spots to go for foliage. In the fall, I spend a lot of time just driving around the state to look at foliage and it’s so magical. I’ll usually do a long, scenic drive to the northeastern corner of the state or the northwestern corner.
New England is high on my list! I would love to visit it in autumn. The foliage is gorgeous, and it seems like there are plenty of places to explore. I had only heard of a few like Salem.
There are so many different places to see foliage around New England that are off the beaten path. I’m very lucky to have lived here my entire life. In the fall, driving anywhere feels magical with the foliage. It’s my favorite time of the year.
This is such a great post! Seeing the fall foliage in New England is on my bucket list. Thank you for sharing!
I hope you’re able to make it to New England to experience the magic of the foliage in the future!!
New England is the ultimate travel trip for the fall. I got to visit in early fall on a cruise and what I got to see, esp in Boston, was beautiful.
Sounds like I need to try and make it Boston this fall! I tend to escape to the mountains, but I’m sure Boston is so charming in the fall.
The photos are spectacular. New England has so much charm…and obviously a lot to see! I’m particularly keen to see the leaves changing colour!
The foliage is part of what makes fall my favorite season here in New England!