As late September bids farewell to hot summer days and October welcomes sweater weather, each region of the country experiences fall differently. Synonymous with pumpkins, apple cider, changing leaves, and fall foliage road trips, a New England road trip undoubtedly boasts the most magical fall scenery that the United States has to offer, and what’s the best way to the New England fall foliage? Road trip time!
If you’ve ever thought about embarking on a New England road trip, fall is undoubtedly the best time of year to go. Cruising along Interstate 95 is the perfect way to take advantage of the vibrant fall foliage happening during the autumnal months. With impressive forests, charming small towns, and peaceful terrain, each state has something special to offer road-trippers making their way through New England. Keep reading to find out where the best places to see fall foliage are and start planning your own New England fall foliage road trips.
Start your New England road trip in New York
Start your New England fall road trip in New York. In the fall, you’ll discover that New York State is much more than just the Big Apple, and in just a matter of a few hours, you can trade sterling skyscrapers views for vibrant, chromatic vistas on your upstate New York getaways, and be marveling at the stunning New York fall foliage. The mountains of the Catskills and the Adirondacks are famous for their lush woodlands and nature escapes, especially in the fall. Whether you’re spending the weekend in one of our amazing cabins to rent or just passing through, a stay in secluded vacation rentals in New York state will certainly be an unforgettable first stop.
Massachusetts fall foliage and getaways
Home of the perfect summer getaway, Massachusetts also beautifully embodies cozy in the fall months. College campuses are filled to the brim, and cities are preparing for the winter ahead. From the hills of the Berkshires to the shores of Cape Cod, spending a day on the road embracing the best of what autumn has to offer can be experienced best in Massachusetts. Fall foliage in Massachusetts has to be seen to be believed, and once you’ve seen the secluded cabin rentals that get you right into the heart of the New England fall foliage, it’ll leave wanting to visit Massachusetts in the fall next year as well.
Stop off and see the New England fall foliage in Vermont
Mostly known for motifs like winter sports and ice cream, the state of Vermont boasts a lesser-known secret: stunning watercolor vistas from late September to winter’s commencement and some of the best New England fall foliage. An afternoon hike through the Green Mountain National Forest or a picnic along Lake Champlain will be accompanied by striking, fragrant foliage, allowing the perfect backdrop for a photograph or oil painting.
Stop off and see the beautiful New Hampshire fall colors
Travelers who are reluctant to leave Vermont will regain their enthusiasm when crossing the state line into New Hampshire. With similar topography to lush forests, rolling hills, and peaceful farmland, it’s the ideal place for a relaxing afternoon drive to absorb all of the scenery of the New Hampshire fall colors. Whether you simply drive through or stop off and stay in cabins in New Hampshire, the stunning palette of fall colors will take your breath away. The White Mountain National Forest stretches across the northern part of the state, while the south is sprinkled with lakes and meadows, so there is something to suit everyone.
Enjoy the New England fall foliage in Maine
The northernmost state in the continental US is the final—and perhaps most picturesque—stop on this New England road trip! Maine’s idyllic landscape is covered by thick woodlands dotted with crystal clear lakes and sleepy, coastal fishing towns. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the crisp, cool autumn air perfumed with the nostalgic aroma of a new season patiently waiting.
Planning a fall foliage getaway? Check out all of New England’s best glamping sites here!
