Now that the summer heat is behind us and cooler temperatures have arrived, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. Fall offers a wonderful opportunity to visit cider mills, go pumpkin picking for Halloween, or hike in the mountains. The Northeast is approaching peak foliage season, and it’s a fantastic time to see the vibrant colors of autumn leaves. While Maine and parts of northern Vermont and New Hampshire are near their peak, there’s still plenty of time to catch the fall colors in New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
If you’re looking for top spots to view the foliage, two standout areas offer a mix of cultural attractions, fine dining, luxurious lodging, and stunning displays of red, gold, and purple leaves.
**Litchfield Hills, Connecticut**
Located in Northwestern Connecticut, Litchfield Hills is renowned for its fall foliage and is often featured on “best of” lists. The area is dotted with winding rivers and rolling hills that make for breathtaking views. Kent, a popular foliage destination, boasts numerous spots for leaf peeping and is close to two state parks. Macedonia Brook State Park offers 2,300 acres of trails with unobstructed views of the Catskill and Taconic mountains. Kent Falls State Park, part of the Appalachian Trail, features scenic vistas and Kent Falls, the largest waterfall in the state.
Visitors often take day trips to enjoy the autumn scenery, but staying for a weekend allows you to savor the local food and culture. Kent is home to Doc’s Trattoria, a beloved Italian restaurant, and Fife & Drum, a Revolutionary War-themed tavern with continental fare and live music. Be sure to try the homemade Belgian chocolates at Belgique Patisserie and Chocolatier. The area is also known for attracting celebrities.
After exploring the foliage, drive down U.S. Route 7 to Ridgefield for a performance at The Ridgefield Theater Barn, a community theater in a converted barn. The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield features new and emerging artists, while The Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury showcases local artists from the past 200 years.
For lodging, options range from charming bed and breakfasts to the luxurious Mayflower Inn and Spa in Washington. This Relais & Châteaux property offers elegant rooms on 58 acres, with a countryside feel and sumptuous decor, perfect for a relaxing stay.
**Berkshires & Western Mass**
Extending from Vermont’s Green Mountain range, the Berkshires stretch across western Massachusetts and Connecticut. This area is known for its unspoiled views of foliage, rolling hills, and picturesque scenery. Towns like Great Barrington, Richmond, Lenox, and North Adams offer quintessential leaf-peeping experiences. Routes 7, 41, 23, and 57 are particularly known for their beautiful foliage views.
Berkshire.org highlights various scenic driving tours, including one through Mount Greylock.
**Central Vermont**
Central Vermont is another prime spot for autumnal beauty. Montpelier, the state capital, serves as a great base for exploring the region. Hikers often choose Mt. Abraham or Camel’s Hump for their rugged trails and stunning views of the White Mountains and Adirondacks. For the best foliage, visit before the third week of October.
While dining options in the area might be limited, Mary’s at Baldwin Creek in Bristol is a standout, offering farm-fresh cuisine. Simon Pearce’s The Mill in Quechee provides modern American dishes in an elegant setting with views of a small waterfall. The Mill’s award-winning wine list features selections from both the New and Old Worlds.
Central Vermont is also rich in art galleries, including the T.W. Wood Gallery & Arts Center in Montpelier and Studio Place Arts in Barre, where you can meet artists or take classes. The region boasts the highest concentration of historic covered bridges in the nation, making it ideal for leisurely strolls.
For accommodations, options include small chain hotels and B&Bs, but unique stays are available too. The Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee offers championship golf and a fun murder mystery weekend. For more luxurious accommodations, Twin Farms in Barnard provides an exclusive retreat with elegant cottages and a renowned restaurant. The estate’s 300 acres offer a secluded feel, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
