Autumn is just around the corner and that means that the so-called leaf peepers will be flocking in droves to New England to enjoy the stunning landscapes as they don their vibrant fall colors. Whether you plan a road trip along the coast, hitting various small towns along the way, or you jump from national park to national park, hiking trails and camping under the stars, there is no wrong way to partake in this celebration of nature's artistry. This is a vacation that everyone should take at least once in their lifetime, and it has the benefit of being relatively cheap, since no one is charging to see the leaves! If you are looking to take a budget vacation in New England this coming fall, then we’ve got a few places you may want to check out. Here are 10 perfect spots to see the changing of the leaves in New England.
1. Acadia National Park
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Set along the rugged coastline of Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia National Park offers a real treat for fall foliage enthusiasts. The park's diverse landscape, featuring granite peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and crowded forests, explodes into a kaleidoscope of colors during the autumn months. Take a leisurely drive along the Park Loop Road and behold the fiery maples and golden oaks that decorate this coastal marvel.
2. New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway
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For a gloriously picturesque scenic drive straight through the White Mountains, take a journey down New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway. Called "The Kanc" by locals, this 34.5-mile stretch of road twists and turns through unimpeachable wilderness, offering stunning panoramic views of mountainsides covered in brilliant fall foliage. Make sure to stop at Sabbaday Falls and the Russell-Colbath Historic Site for even more natural and historical eyecandy.
3. The Shires of Vermont
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Vermont is well-known for its autumn aesthetic, and "The Shires," located in the southwestern corner of the state, are a prime example of why it has that reputation. Made up of Bennington and Manchester, this region features a delightful mix of quaint villages, old covered bridges, and rolling hills cloaked in a smorgasbord of vibrant foliage. Visit charming shops, sip on hot cider, and indulge in farm-to-table cooking while surrounded by the majestic colors of the changing season.
4. Montgomery, Vermont
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Another destination up in northern Vermont, just East of the Shires, the picturesque town of Montgomery is a bit of a hidden gem for leaf peepers. The foliage here is nothing short of jaw-dropping, with sugar maples lending their brilliant hues over rolling hills and serene ponds. Take a luxurious drive along Route 242 to Jay Peak and you will find yourself hypnotized by the autumnal magic that unfolds before you.
5. Woodstock, Vermont
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Woodstock, often called "The Prettiest Small Town in America," definitely earns its reputation during the fall season. Walk along the adorable streets lined with historic homes and check out the Billings Farm & Museum for an educational excursion. The vibrant colors of the trees surrounding the town square create a postcard-worthy setting for any fall getaway. If you are looking for a good place to get a good pic for Instagram, this is the spot!
6. Massachusetts's Mohawk Trail
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In western Massachusetts, the Mohawk Trail runs through the Berkshires, providing views of stunning vistas and an abundance of vibrant foliage during the fall months. As you drive along the road, keep your eye out for historic landmarks, quaint and cozy villages, and any opportunity for a hike or picnic among the inspiringly surreal landscape.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
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New England's bustling capital city of Boston isn't just for the history nerds and Red Sox fans. During the changing of summer to winter, the city's parks like Boston Common or the Public Garden burst into a fiery explosion of color. Take a walk along the historic Freedom Trail and witness the stark contrast between sites important to America’s past and the bright colors of the transforming foliage, creating a distinct blend of old-world US charm and the natural beauty of cyclical change.
8. Allegheny National Forest
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The Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania is a bit of a stretch for this list, as it isn’t actually in New England. But it is a little too picturesque for leaf-peeping to not at least get an honorable mention. This well-kept secret for leaf peeping is a serene escape into a wilderness adorned with the brilliant colors of fall. The Kinzua Sky Walk is a wooden bridge that extends to a raised platform with a glass bottom view of the valley below and it is the standout feature here. It provides an absolutely awe-inspiring view of the changing leaves, making it well worth inclusion on this list.
9. Salem, Massachusetts
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Salem, Massachusetts is not only a great place to see the leaves, but a top-tier destination during the Halloween season. In case you’ve been living under a rock, this is the infamous site of the Salem Witch Trials, whereby many women were accused of witchcraft and executed. This gives the town a spooky reputation, perfect for telling scary stories. To learn more about the trials, head to the Witch House Museum to see what the town looked like during that time. The famous Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus was filmed here also, and a walking tour will take you to many iconic filming locations!
10. White Mountain National Forest
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For another iconic National Forest that’s full of deciduous trees, head to the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. The true spectacle of the changing leaves can only really be appreciated in the mountains, as the forests that line rocky landscapes create massive, awe-inspiring scenes. Camping here is a good choice, so that you may catch the sunrise over the vibrant mountainous horizon. Keep an eye out for moose, white tail deer, and ruffed grouse, along with around 200 species of birds!
