As the cool, crisp air of autumn descends upon New England, the region transforms into a picturesque wonderland of vibrant colors and cozy experiences. There's something magical about fall in New England that beckons both locals and visitors to embrace the season's beauty and partake in a variety of activities. Having spent many autumns exploring this charming part of the country, I've cultivated a list of my favorite fall activities that capture the essence of New England. Join me on this personal journey through 15 must-do activities that will make your autumn unforgettable.
One of the quintessential fall activities in New England is leaf-peeping, and there's no better place to start than the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. Known for its stunning foliage, the Kancamagus Highway offers breathtaking views of the White Mountains adorned in red, orange, and yellow hues. As I drove along this scenic byway, I couldn't help but stop at various overlooks to capture the beauty of the changing leaves. The tranquility of the forest, combined with the vibrant colors, made for an unforgettable experience. For more information, check out the Kancamagus Highway (https://kancamagushighway.com/) website.
Another favorite fall activity of mine is visiting apple orchards. There's something nostalgic about wandering through rows of apple trees, picking fresh apples, and savoring the crisp, sweet taste of a just-picked fruit. One of my go-to orchards is Honeypot Hill in Stow, Massachusetts. This family-owned orchard offers a variety of apple types, as well as hayrides, a hedge maze, and delicious apple cider donuts. Every visit feels like a celebration of autumn's bounty. Learn more about the orchard at Honey Pot Hill Orchards (https://www.honeypothill.com/).
Pumpkin picking is another delightful fall tradition, and Smolak Farms, Massachusetts, is one of my favorite spots. The farm's pumpkin patch is brimming with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, perfect for carving or decorating. The farm also offers hayrides, a petting zoo, and a farm stand with seasonal treats. I always leave Smolak Farms with a trunk full of pumpkins and a heart full of joy. Visit Smolak Farms (https://www.smolakfarms.com/) for more details.
Fall wouldn't be complete without experiencing a corn maze, and the Davis Mega Maze in Sterling, Massachusetts, never disappoints. This intricate maze is designed with new themes each year, providing a fun and challenging adventure for all ages. Navigating through the twists and turns of the maze is exhilarating, especially when done with friends or family. The sense of accomplishment upon finding the exit is immensely satisfying. Discover more about this maze at Davis Mega Maze (https://davismegamaze.com/).
For a taste of New England's rich history, I highly recommend visiting Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. This living history museum transports you back to the 1830s, with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and interactive exhibits. During the fall, the village hosts special events like Harvest Days and the annual Apple and Agriculture Days, celebrating the season's traditions. Strolling through the village amidst the autumn foliage feels like stepping into a different era. Learn more at Old Sturbridge Village (https://www.osv.org/).
One of my favorite fall festivals is the Deerfield fair in Deerfield, New Hampshire. This traditional agricultural fair, held annually since 1876, features livestock shows, horse pulls, carnival rides, and a variety of food vendors. The fair's lively atmosphere and diverse activities make it a perfect way to spend a crisp autumn day. Don't miss the chance to try some fair food classics, like fried dough and caramel apples. Check out the Deerfield Fair (https://www.deerfieldfair.com/) for more information.
Exploring covered bridges is another charming fall activity, and Vermont is home to some of the most picturesque ones. The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, spanning the Connecticut River between New Hampshire and Vermont, is one of my favorites. This historic wooden bridge, built in 1866, offers stunning views of the river and surrounding foliage. Walking across the bridge and taking in the serene landscape is a peaceful and reflective experience. For more covered bridges in Vermont, visit Vermont's Covered Bridges (https://www.vermontvacation.com/explore-vermont/covered-bridges).
A fall trip to New England wouldn't be complete without experiencing a harvest festival, and the Wellfleet OysterFest in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, is a standout. Held in mid-October, this festival celebrates the region's rich oyster farming heritage with live music, local crafts, and, of course, plenty of oysters. Enjoying freshly shucked oysters while taking in the lively atmosphere of the festival is a true delight. Learn more about the festival at Wellfleet OysterFest (https://wellfleetspat.org/oysterfest/).
Another must-do activity is taking a scenic train ride, and the Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, New Hampshire, offers some of the best. The train journeys through the heart of the White Mountains, providing panoramic views of the fall foliage. The vintage train cars and the rhythmic chug of the engine add to the nostalgic charm of the ride. It's a relaxing and picturesque way to experience New England's autumn beauty. For schedules and tickets, visit Conway Scenic Railroad (https://www.wellfleetoa.org/).
For those who enjoy hiking, the fall season offers the perfect opportunity to explore New England's trails. One of my favorite hikes is the Franconia Ridge Loop in New Hampshire's White Mountains. This challenging trail rewards hikers with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, especially when the foliage is at its peak. The sense of accomplishment at the summit, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes it a memorable adventure. For trail information, check out Franconia Ridge Loop (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/franconia-ridge-loop).
Visiting a winery during the fall is another delightful experience, and Newport Vineyards in Rhode Island is a top choice. The vineyard's picturesque setting and the crisp autumn air create the perfect backdrop for wine tasting. Newport Vineyards offers a variety of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds, and the knowledgeable staff provides insights into the winemaking process. Enjoying a glass of wine while overlooking the vineyard is a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend a fall afternoon. Learn more at Newport Vineyards (https://www.newportvineyards.com/).
For a spooky fall adventure, I recommend visiting Salem, Massachusetts, famously known for its witch trials. The town embraces its haunted history with various Halloween-themed events, including ghost tours, haunted houses, and the annual Salem Haunted Happenings festival. Exploring the historic streets of Salem, especially in October, is a thrilling and immersive experience. The town's rich history and eerie atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for Halloween enthusiasts. Check out Salem Haunted Happenings (https://www.hauntedhappenings.org/) for event details.
Attending a college football game is another quintessential fall activity in New England. The region is home to several prestigious colleges with passionate fan bases. Watching a game at Harvard Stadium in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a unique experience, combining the excitement of college football with the historic charm of the Ivy League campus. The energy of the crowd and the crisp fall air create an electric atmosphere that's hard to beat. For schedules and tickets, visit Harvard Athletics (https://www.gocrimson.com/).
Exploring a botanical garden in the fall is another wonderful way to enjoy the season's beauty. The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston, Massachusetts, offers a stunning display of autumn foliage and seasonal plants. Walking through the various gardens and taking in the vibrant colors is a peaceful and inspiring experience. The garden also hosts special events and workshops throughout the fall, adding to the allure. Learn more at New England Botanic Garden (https://www.nebg.org/).
Finally, taking a scenic drive along the coast of Maine is a breathtaking way to experience the fall season. The drive from Portland to Bar Harbor offers stunning views of the rocky coastline, charming seaside towns, and vibrant foliage. Stops along the way, such as the iconic Portland Head Light and the picturesque Acadia National Park, provide opportunities for exploration and photography. The combination of coastal beauty and autumn colors makes this drive an unforgettable journey. For more information, visit Visit Maine (https://visitmaine.com/).
Fall in New England offers a wealth of activities that celebrate the season's beauty and charm. From leaf-peeping and apple picking to exploring historic towns and enjoying seasonal festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Each of these activities has become a cherished part of my autumn traditions, and I hope they inspire you to create your own memorable experiences in New England. Happy fall adventures!
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