New England is known for its beautiful fall season, attracting many visitors each year. The region offers a variety of destinations where people can enjoy colorful leaves, crisp air, and charming small towns. Travelers often look for the best spots to experience this seasonal change.
The 12 best places to visit in New England in the fall highlight a mix of scenic views, outdoor activities, and local culture that make the season special. These destinations provide a range of options, from peaceful nature spots to lively festivals, making it easy for anyone to find something enjoyable.
1) Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is known for its bright fall colors. It offers views of colorful trees, rocky coastline, and mountains. Visitors enjoy short hikes, scenic drives, and nearby Bar Harbor’s shops and restaurants. Acadia is popular in autumn for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
See more about Acadia National Park autumn activities here.
2) Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
The Kancamagus Highway is a 35-mile scenic road through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. It offers clear views of fall foliage, waterfalls, and hiking spots. Visitors often stop at overlooks and covered bridges along the route for photos and short walks. Learn more about this route at Kancamagus Highway fall drive.
3) Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is known for its bright fall leaves and peaceful mountain views. Visitors enjoy hiking, apple picking, and visiting pumpkin patches. The town offers classic New England charm all autumn long. See more about Stowe’s fall attractions here.
4) Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock offers classic New England fall views with colorful foliage and scenic drives. Visitors enjoy hiking, farm tours, and charming shops. The town is known for places like Billings Farm and nearby Quechee Gorge, which are great for fall activities and photos.
More details about Woodstock’s fall attractions can be found at The New England Guide.
5) Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport is a quiet coastal town that shows its true charm in the fall. Visitors enjoy walking along Bearskin Neck, where shops and seafood spots line cobblestone streets. The peaceful harbor and colorful leaves create a calm atmosphere perfect for a relaxing trip. Learn more about Rockport’s fall appeal here.
6) Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport offers calm fall days with colorful leaves and cool temperatures. Visitors enjoy quiet walks along Ocean Avenue or relaxing by a fire in cozy inns. The town combines natural beauty with historic charm for a peaceful autumn visit.
Explore local beaches or take a kayak trip to see the fall colors from the water.
Kennebunkport fall activities showcase its unique seasonal appeal.
7) Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires offer vibrant fall foliage, especially in early to mid-October. Visitors can drive scenic routes like the Mohawk Trail for colorful views. Outdoor activities include hiking trails such as Mount Greylock, with panoramic vistas of the region. For more details, see Berkshires fall travel information.
8) Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is known for its rich history and fall charm. Visitors can explore historic sites and enjoy spooky tours. The town also offers free activities and a lively arts scene that make autumn visits interesting. More details are available in this guide to Salem Massachusetts.
9) White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains offer stunning fall colors and scenic drives. Visitors can explore the Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile route through vibrant forests. The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway provides easy access to panoramic views of the region and beyond. Mount Washington also stands out for its breathtaking outlooks during autumn. Learn more about activities in the White Mountains.
10) Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts
The Mohawk Trail is a historic scenic route in Massachusetts, known for its beautiful fall colors. It stretches about 60 miles through forests, small towns, and parks.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, dining, and stops at local shops. The trail is especially popular for its vibrant autumn foliage and diverse outdoor activities. See more about the Mohawk Trail drive here.
11) Mount Washington, New Hampshire
Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet. It offers scenic drives, hikes, and a train ride to the summit. Visitors enjoy the crisp fall air and colorful foliage views around the area. See more about activities near Mount Washington.
12) Sleepy Hollow, Connecticut
Sleepy Hollow is known for its colorful fall foliage. The town offers a peaceful setting with scenic views. It also hosts Halloween events in October, drawing visitors who enjoy the seasonal atmosphere. It is a good choice for a quiet autumn visit.
More details can be found in the best things to do in Sleepy Hollow guide.
