New England is home to stunning fall foliage, and in turn, striking scenic views, often attracting visitors from across the globe. Fall is the perfect time to explore the entirety of New England as well as take a stroll through your own neighborhood. We took our time gathering a few of our favorite fall activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy this season. Keep reading to learn our top picks.
Pumpkin Patch & Apple Picking
In New Hampshire
Mack’s Apples in Londonderry is approximately 400-acres, 100 of which are solely apples. Londonderry is home to numerous family farms, including Mack’s Apples which was started by John Mack and his wife, Isabella Brown, who had immigrated from Ireland to New Hampshire in 1732. Currently picking is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to their website, more details can be found here.
In Massachusetts
Carlson Orchards in Harvard was founded in 1936 and is still owned and operated by the family today. On their 100-acre farm they grow apples, peaches, nectarines, blueberries, raspberries, and sweet cherries. Carlson Orchards is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday according to their website, more details can be found here.
In Vermont
Wellwood Orchards is owned and operated by Roy Mark and his family for over four decades. This year Wellwood is not offering Pick Your Own apples however their store is open and filled with other great products.
See Fall Foliage: Where to Go Leaf Peeping
In Massachusetts
To Hike — Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
Over 3,000-acres the reservation has natural and recreational opportunities for visitors. In the winter, you can ski, but in the fall you can hike and bike all of the trails. Open from 9:00am through sunset, there is a fee for admission and parking. You can also drive your car straight to the summit of Wachusett Mountain instead of hiking! Find more information here.
To Drive — Route 116
This route follows the eastern edge of the Mohawk Trail in Northwestern Massachusetts and right through the Berkshires making this one of the most scenic drives in the state. Just over 68 miles long, the route passes from numerous rural towns and thousands of trees offering places to stop and eat or enjoy the scenes along your drive.
In Vermont
To Hike — Mount Philo Western Loop
This 2-mile loop trail near Charlotte, Vermont is a moderate hike that offers views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. A part of Vermont State Parks, there is an admission price for visitors. This trail is popular all year round, but particularly stunning in the fall with the changing colors and changing weather. Find more information here.
To Drive — Route 100
Following the eastern edge of the Green Mountains Route 100 runs along southern and central Vermont. This popular highway has been dubbed ‘The Skier’s Highway’ and ‘Vermont’s Main Street.’ Along the highway there are lots of shops, restaurants, bakeries and more places to explore. Find more information here.
In Maine
To Hike — Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region
Made up of state, local, and non-profit landowners working together to protect and keep up this area for wildlife, water quality, and sustainable recreation. Over 10,000 acres, this land is critical for many of Maine’s rare plants and animals and its conservation depends on all of us, so be cautious and kind when visiting. With eight different trails to hike of varying lengths and uses, Mount Agamenticus is for everyone. They are open from 7:00am until 4:00pm through November 15 and there is typically a fee to enter the conservation area. You can hike, bike and even use ATVs or ride horses on specific trails. Mount Agamenticus is a great destination for leaf peeping and wildlife viewing. Find more information here.
To Drive — Route 302 Sebago Lake
Route 302 that extends from Portland, is a great leaf peeping highway that stretches through Southern Maine and passes through several lakes including Sebago Lake. The highway continues through into forests and smaller towns with thousands of trees that make a beautiful autumn drive with so much fall foliage.
Go to the Cape
Tour a Cranberry Bog
Fall is harvest season for cranberries on Cape Cod. In Harwich, Cranberry Bog Tours offer guided tours of their farm throughout the fall and you can visit their farm animals while you’re at it. Reservations are required for tours so be sure to plan in advance. Find more information here.
Hiking — Nickerson State Park
Open from sunrise to sunset, this state park is typically packed in the summer with tourists but visiting in the fall is just as optimal and less crowded. Nickerson in Brewster is full of trees, ponds, and paths to walk and bike on. Find more information here.
Tour — Haunted Cape Cod
Operating out of Barnstable Village, this tour visits 10 historically haunted places alongside Old King’s Highway. Running from 7:00pm to 9:00pm through November 15, this spooky stop is a nice end to a fall day in New England. Find more information here.
Commonwealth Avenue Walk
For those who are looking for a small afternoon activity right in the city, you can always walk along Commonwealth Avenue starting on Arlington Street. Many homes decorate for Halloween and the trees covering the street offer another stunning view of fall foliage right at home.
