7 Best Places to Visit in New England in the Fall for Stunning Foliage and Local Charm

New England offers a unique experience in the fall when the leaves change color and the weather turns crisp. Many travelers look for the best spots to enjoy this seasonal beauty and plan trips around the stunning autumn scenery.

A colorful autumn landscape in New England showing trees with red, orange, and yellow leaves, colonial houses, a covered bridge, a lighthouse by the coast, and a winding road.

The 7 best places to visit in New England in the fall highlight locations where nature, culture, and local events come together to create memorable autumn experiences. These destinations attract visitors who want to see vibrant foliage, explore charming towns, and enjoy outdoor activities.

1) Stowe, Vermont for vibrant foliage and quaint village charm

A small village street in Stowe, Vermont, surrounded by colorful autumn trees and historic buildings under a clear blue sky.

Stowe offers colorful fall leaves set against the Green Mountains. It is known for a charming village with shops and restaurants. Visitors enjoy scenic bike paths and peaceful hiking trails during autumn.

The town is popular for outdoor activities and classic New England fall experiences. For more details, see this guide to Stowe’s fall attractions.

2) Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire for scenic fall drives

A winding road through a forest with colorful red, orange, and yellow autumn leaves under a clear blue sky.

The Kancamagus Highway is a 34-mile drive through New Hampshire’s White Mountains. It offers clear views of colorful fall leaves and mountain landscapes. Many travelers choose this route for a peaceful, scenic fall drive. It is known for easy access to photo spots and nature stops.

More details can be found at the Kancamagus Highway fall foliage guide.

3) Camden, Maine for coastal views and autumn colors

Coastal view of Camden, Maine with colorful autumn trees, rocky shoreline, boats in the harbor, and clear blue sky.

Camden offers a unique mix of coastal scenery and vibrant fall foliage. Visitors can hike Camden Hills State Park to enjoy both ocean views and colorful leaves. The town also has fresh seafood and small-town charm that suit the autumn season well. More details are available at Camden Maine in Fall.

4) Woodstock, Vermont for covered bridges and apple orchards

A covered wooden bridge over a river surrounded by colorful autumn trees and apple orchards with ripe apples in a rural landscape.

Woodstock is known for its charming covered bridges, offering a glimpse into Vermont’s history. Visitors can explore these wooden structures while enjoying the colorful fall scenery. Nearby apple orchards add to the autumn experience, with fresh apples and local cider available. Woodstock’s small-town charm makes it a great fall destination.

Find more on things to do in Woodstock VT.

5) Salem, Massachusetts for historic sites and fall festivals

Historic Salem, Massachusetts town square in autumn with colorful fall leaves, colonial buildings, pumpkins, and visitors enjoying the season.

Salem is known for its rich history and well-preserved historic sites. Visitors can explore museums and landmarks related to the witch trials and maritime past. In the fall, Salem hosts festivals that celebrate the season with cultural events and family activities. More details can be found at Destination Salem.

6) The Berkshires, Massachusetts for hiking and arts events

A hiking trail surrounded by colorful fall trees in the Berkshires with hills in the background and people enjoying an outdoor arts event.

The Berkshires offer many hiking trails with beautiful fall colors. Visitors can explore mountains, waterfalls, and quiet forests.

The region also hosts arts events and museums, attracting those interested in culture and nature. The mix makes it a strong fall destination.

Learn more about hiking and events in the Berkshires at Berkshires Outside.

7) Acadia National Park, Maine for rugged coastal landscapes

Rocky coastline with autumn-colored trees and ocean waves under a clear sky at Acadia National Park.

Acadia National Park features rocky shores and dense forests along Maine’s coast. Visitors can explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and visit Cadillac Mountain. The park offers a mix of sea views and mountain terrain, making it a notable destination for fall colors and outdoor activities.

Learn more about Acadia National Park’s landscapes here.

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