Experience New England's Best: Fall Foliage

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Advisor - Nairi Hovsepian
Curated By

Nairi Hovsepian

  • Active Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Wellness Travel

  • New Hampshire

  • Outdoors

  • Entertainment

  • Sightseeing

The image shows a vibrant autumn landscape with a twisted, leafless tree in the foreground and a colorful forest in the background.
Curator’s statement

New England's fall foliage catches the attention of thousands from around the world every year. Warm summer nights slowly turn into brisk fall mornings. The once-green umbrella of branches evolves as they change color and prepare to sleep for the winter. But before they do, the bold colors of red, yellow, orange, and amber blanket the mountains and roadways, making it one of the most sought-after fall destinations. As a fellow New Englander, I'm here to share what's worth visiting, from a local perspective.

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Where to stay in New England

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Things to do in New England

The image shows an aerial view of a curved road with parked cars surrounded by autumn-colored trees.

Scenic drive down the Kancamagus Highway

Explore the famous Kancamagus Scenic Highway by car or bike to immerse yourself in the warm colors of the trees. Start in Lincoln and end in Conway for lunch at one of their local Cafés. Don't miss these stops along the way:

  • Hairpin Turn

  • Hancock Overlook

  • Penigewasset Overlook - the highest elevation of the drive and in my opinion, the best viewpoint

  • C.L. Graham Overlook

  • Sugar Hill Overlook - Views of the Swift River

  • Rocky Gorge & Falls Pond

  • Albany Covered Bridge

Hart's Location, New Hampshire

  • Hike up to the Willey Brook Trestle through the White Mountains to watch the Conway Scenic Railroad cross the bridge through the bright colors.

Conway Scenic Railroad

  • If hiking isn't your preference, take the Mountaineer train on Conway Scenic Railroad through Crawford Notch. There are several options to choose from for a scenic train ride, however, the Mountaineer provides an old-school feel on their streamlined train and provides the best views. Don't forget to wave to those who hiked to the overlook!

Omni Mount Washington Resort

  • Whether you're visiting for the day or staying at this luxurious resort, there is something for everyone. Book at Tee Time and their award-winning 9- or 18-hole course or a spa treatment with mountain views. No matter the choice, you can't go wrong.

Burlington, VT

  • Start by taking a ride on the Car Ferry across Lake Champlain to the Adirondacks of New York. You get the best of both worlds from Vermont to New York, experiencing the leaves at every angle!

  • New England is known for their covered bridges, if you see one, hop out and take a picture under it!

  • Take the Burlington Bike Path around town.

Know Before you Go

  • Lodging in peak foliage season books up quickly, so do not wait if you're considering the adventure.

  • Start early for all hikes and scenic drives. The roadways and trails can become crowded mid-day. If you want the landscape to yourself, it's something to keep in mind.

  • There are no food stops or gas stations on the Kancamagus Highway. Fill your tank and grab some snacks before you start your journey. Conway has an adorable town center with plenty of local eateries to wind down.

Places to eat & drink in New England

The image shows an individual in a red plaid shirt and green beanie, painting on a canvas by a rocky river with autumn foliage in the background.

New Hampshire

  • The Cave: A speakeasy located in the Omni Mount Washington Resort. They're famous for the stone walls and unique cocktails.

  • Sweet Maple Cafe: Excellent coffee and sandwiches

  • Barley & Salt Tap House and Kitchen: Food is delicious and their unique beer selection is a must-try

  • Tuckerman Brewing Company: Named after the infamous Tuckerman Ravine of the White Mountains, this brewery has a lively environment, local draft beers, and bar bites.

Vermont

  • Burlington Bay Market & Cafe: An adorable market & cafe with views of Lake Champlain.

  • The Farmhouse Tap & Grill: Don't miss this indoor/outdoor farm-to-table pub located in downtown Burlington.

Advisor - Nairi Hovsepian

Travel Advisor

Nairi Hovsepian

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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to New Hampshire. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Sarit Rothschild's guide, Taking a Week-Long Break in New England