With the leaf-peeping season right around the corner, New England offers some of the Country’s most spectacular fall foliage viewing opportunities, and here are just a few of our favorite destinations showcasing the best of autumn in the Northeast.
Newport, Rhode Island:
Located in picturesque Narragansett Bay, the colonial town of Newport is a fantastic fall destination. Newport offers a multitude of seasonal festivals set amongst stunning scenery, and there is plenty to do for everyone. Famous for its iconic gilded mansions, autumn brings less crowds and cooler weather. Stroll the Cliff Walk with breathtaking bay views, or visit Fort Adams State Park for a pop of fall colors. Explore the town’s quaint streets lined with perfectly preserved examples of historic colonial architecture, many adorned with corn husks, pumpkins, and other seasonal bounty. Plan a stay when Newport hosts one of its many fall festivals, such as The Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival. It is a great place to savor the region’s freshest seafood specialties while enjoying live music and other entertainment. For wine lovers, the Newport Vineyards Harvest Fest boasts two days of wine and beer tastings paired with locally prepared bites, and for a taste of Europe, do not miss a visit to Newport’s annual Oktoberfest or the three-week-long Newport Festa Italiana. For family fun, visit Trinity Church’s pumpkin patch for pumpkin picking, cider donuts, and entertainment. Newport is also a renowned foodie destination; from food trucks and small cafes to fine dining options, Newport has something for everyone.
Litchfield County, Connecticut:
This quiet and quaint area in northwestern Connecticut flawlessly combines natural wonder and historic charm. Nestled at the foot of the Berkshire Mountains, Litchfield County is home to some of the state’s prettiest covered bridges and towns. To name a few, Kent, New Milford, Litchfield, and Cornwall vie for the coveted title. You will find boutiques, antique shops, delicious dining options, and some of Connecticut’s most luxurious inns and spas. To take full advantage of Mother Nature, drive Route 7 to Kent Falls State Park for an amazing explosion of color. Other terrific options for colorful foliage are the Lake Waramaug or Litchfield Hills Ramble scenic drives. For outdoor enthusiasts, Litchfield County has an abundance of hiking trails for all levels, or hire a local outfitter for a guided e-bike tour of the county. For fun for the whole family, stop at the Annual Garlic and Harvest Festival or visit one of the many “u-pick” farms for fresh apples and pumpkins.
Boston, Massachusetts:
The most urban of our picks, Boston will not disappoint for an autumn escape. With the sticky summer in the rearview mirror, the City bursts to life, hosting annual events such as the Head of the Charles Regatta, the largest rowing event in the world. With so many green spaces and picturesque neighborhoods, Boston is an incredible place for fall foliage. Visit Boston Common, America’s oldest park, where over 200 oak, beech, chestnut, and elm trees burst into yellow, orange, and red hues. Boston Public Garden and the Boston Esplanade along the Charles River are also beautiful this time of year. Follow the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail to learn about the nation’s history, visit the Copley Square Farmers Market for seasonal goods, or get up close and personal with some local wildlife on a whale-watching excursion. A visit to Boston is incomplete without grabbing a pint at one of its popular beer gardens, particularly during Oktoberfest, or visiting a world-class museum or two.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts:
Whether you call Lenox, Great Barrington, or Stockbridge home base, The Berkshires are an extraordinary place to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy some of the best fall colors. For a truly spectacular display of fall hues, drive the scenic Mohawk Trail or hike a stretch of the Appalachian Trail in Mount Greylock State Reservation. The entire region is renowned for its antique shops and local farm stands, where you will find fresh produce, jams, and other treats. The area’s lakes, such as Stockbridge Bowl, offer a serene retreat to rejuvenate and spend a leisurely afternoon. The Berkshires also pack a big punch when it comes to culture, from the famed Tanglewood concert venue to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, with over 250,000 square feet of exhibition space. Visit The Mount, the home of Edith Wharton, where there is a rotating schedule of exhibitions, and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, housing the most extensive collection of his works.
Stowe, Vermont:
Visit the Green Mountain State and immerse yourself in dazzling natural landscapes, jaw-dropping mountain vistas, and charming small towns. Stowe stands out with its distinctive white steepled church and cute main street with unique shops and cafes. With abundant historical, cultural, and recreational activities, fall is an ideal time to explore Vermont. Nestled at the base of Mount Mansfield, Stowe provides easy access to its summit, Vermont’s highest peak. Hike, drive, or take the gondola to the top for awe-inspiring views of the valley and beyond, showcasing autumn’s unmatched vibrant colors. From here, you can enjoy a peaceful lunch at the mountaintop restaurant and access several hiking trails. October brings the annual Stowe Foliage Art Festival, where artisan crafts, specialty foods, and local beer and wine are aplenty. Drive along Route 108 through Smuggler’s Notch for outstanding views and colors, and visit the area’s hiking trails and waterfalls. Visit the idyllic town of Woodstock, a short one-and-a-half-hour drive from Stowe. Visit its downtown with a unique mix of architectural styles and independently run shops. Do not miss visiting the nearby historic covered bridges and indulge in a local syrup or cheese tasting.
Bursting with historic charm, cozy inns and restaurants, fresh air and outdoor adventures, and unbelievable scenery, New England is a magical place to escape and recharge. To help plan your memorable fall getaway, contact The Destination Designer today.
