New England is the quintessential fall destination and a visit during this season will take you on a cosy, romantic and heart warming journey. The region is dotted with small towns that are effortlessly charming, where pumpkin-strewn farm stands line the roads, maple trees turn shades of crimson and gold and every corner smells like cinnamon and apples. It is in many ways just perfect. In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 of the most beloved New England towns, as well as lesser known gems that we found to be magical during the fall.
If you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, you’ll want to work in some or all of these towns. To help, we have an 11-day road trip itinerary across New England that incorporates visits to all of these towns and more. Or check out our 3-day Vermont fall itinerary or 3-day New Hampshire fall itinerary.
And if you are looking for the best places to see fall foliage across New England, this is your guide.
Top 10 best New England towns to visit in fall
1. Woodstock, Vermont
Go here if you want: A smart, classic New England small town complete with gift shops, cosy cafes, historic homes, and streets lined with pumpkins, scarecrows and brilliant fall foliage.
Why visit: Woodstock is one of the most popular towns to visit in New England. The town embodies everything you imagine a Vermont fall town to look like. Lying amidst mountains and rivers, it is a beautiful destination. The streets are lined with boutiques, galleries and cafes, and during the fall the town fully embraces the season as porches overflow with pumpkins, and businesses dress up with charming harvest decorations. The historic town is known for its well preserved 19th Century Victorian mansions like the Woodstock Inn & Resort. This is the Inn to stay at in New England, if budget allows. Elsewhere in town, historical landmarks like the Middle Covered Bridge and Ebenezer Fitch House are beautiful sights during the fall. Grab a sandwich from one of the local cafes or deli’s and find a bench in the village green to watch the world go by.
Top things to do:
- Stroll around the town including Central Street and Elm Street where you’ll find many boutiques, gift shops, and cafes.
- See photogenic fall spots like the Woodstock Inn, Middle Covered Bridge and Ebenezer Fitch House.
- Relax and watch the world go by on the village green.
- Visit Sleepy Hollow Farm for one of the most photographed fall scenes in New England – located on the outskirts of the town.
Where to stay:
- The Woodstock Inn & Resort: A grand 19th century inn known for luxury and charm. If budget allows, this is the ultimate New England fall experience.
- Other options: There are many inns and AirBnbs located throughout the town.
2. Waitsfield, Vermont
Go here if you want: A quieter, laid-back Vermont town with a strong sense of community, an excellent farmers market, unique boutiques, and a historic covered bridge, as well as access to outdoor adventure opportunities.
Why visit: Tucked into the heart of the Mad River Valley, a beautiful corner of Vermont close to the Green Mountains and known for outdoor pursuits such as hiking, skiing and biking, Waitsfield is a peaceful and low-key alternative to Vermont’s more tourist-heavy fall destinations. The town sits along Route 100, one of the most scenic drives in New England during foliage season. It’s divided into two distinct areas: one features charming historic buildings converted into restaurants, galleries and shops, plus the Great Eddy Covered Bridge. The other section is more modern and is home to the region’s Saturday Farmers Market.
Top things to do:
- See the Great Eddy Covered Bridge, one of Vermont’s oldest covered bridges.
- Visit the Saturday Farmers Market which features fresh produce from Vermont farmers, artisan goods and live music.
- Shop in the small independent shops including All Things Bright & Beautiful, a magical Christmas store with an incredible selection of European vintage ornaments.
- Drive Route 100 for fall foliage and countryside scenes.
Where to stay:
- The Yellow Farmhouse Inn: A cosy and welcoming inn just outside town with delicious breakfasts.
- Other options: Waitsfield is surrounded by rustic inns, farm stays and charming B&Bs that offer views of the valley.
3. Stowe, Vermont
Go here if you want: Classic New England charm with a bustling atmosphere, stunning fall foliage, boutique shopping, outdoor activities and local cuisine.
Why visit: While it’s more popular (and crowded) than some of Vermont’s other towns, Stowe still delivers that storybook New England look, especially in the fall when the town is wrapped in vibrant reds and golds. Surrounded by mountains, Stowe is a hub for outdoor recreation, leaf-peeping drives and local food experiences. It’s also a great base if you’re planning to explore Smugglers Notch State Park, Mount Mansfield, or other parts of northern Vermont.
Top things to do:
- Photograph the town at the iconic Stowe Community Church View Point, where its white church is framed by fall colours.
- Stroll through downtown Stowe and pop into locally owned boutiques, galleries and cafes along Maine Street.
- Visit Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily’s Bridge), just 10-minutes from town. This historic and supposedly haunted bridge is one of the prettiest, especially in fall.
- Take the Gondola or Drive the Auto Toll Road up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak for panoramic foliage views.
- Drive Smuggler’s Notch State Park pass for more foliage.
- Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill 10-minutes out outside of town for fresh-pressed apple cider, legendary cider donuts and Vermont made treats.
Where to stay:
- The Green Mountain Inn: A historic inn in the heart of downtown, with classic rooms and a cosy atmosphere.
- Other options: There are many beautiful AirBnbs and mountain cabins near Stowe with foliage views.
4. Peacham, Vermont
Go here if you want: A storybook town surrounded by rolling farmland and fall foliage, with a strong sense of community and a classic small-town fall festival.
Why visit: More of a village than a town, Peacham might just be the prettiest place in Vermont. Nestled in the rolling hills of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, this tiny village is a photographer’s dream with its white-steepled church, historic homes and fields that roll into hills. While there are no big attractions or tourist crowds, that’s exactly the point, this is New England’d simplicity at its finest. Chat with locals in the village cafe or take a peaceful walk through the streets and fields.
Top things to do:
- Photograph the town including its steepled church and classic red barn surrounded by green fields and colourful hills. The photo spot can be reached from the field behind the Peacham Fire Department.
- Attend the North East Kingdom Fall Foliage Festival. Peacham plays host to one of the festival days, usually held in late September or early October. Don’t expect too much, but there will certainly be a community feel. Check Peacham’s events for the updated schedule.
- Visit the local gift shop and community-run cafe serving homemade baked goods.
- Explore the backroads by taking a scenic drive or leisurely walk for views of barns, silos and sugar maples.
Where to stay:
- The Inn on Sunset Hill (nearby in St. Johnsbury): A charming option just a short drive from Peacham, with sweeping views and cosy rooms.
- Local B&Bs and farm stays: while Peacham itself has limited accommodations, nearby towns offer quiet inns and Airbnb stays that provide the same rural charm.
5. Jackson, New Hampshire
Go here if you want: A small mountain town surrounded by White Mountain fall foliage, scenic drives, hiking trails and one of New England’s most charming autumn festivals.
Why visit: Surrounded by the White Mountains, Jackson is a classic New England fall getaway that offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. The surrounding mountains and valleys are blanketed in brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange, making this one of the best places to see fall foliage in New England. Hike colourful trails, take in sweeping mountain views, or simply wander the village centre, where you’ll find a historic covered bridge, a deli, tavern and a cute jigsaw shop. Fall in Jackson also means festival season. Throughout October, the town hosts Return of the Pumpkin People, a month-long celebration where businesses display imaginative pumpkin-themed creations. It’s quirky, fun and pure New England. And if you’re looking for spectacular fall scenery, the nearby Kancamagus Highway is one of the most famous fall foliage drives in America. You can also explore Mount Washington, Crawford Notch State Park, and Franconia Notch State Park for even more stunning leaf-peeping.
Top things to do:
- See Honeymoon Covered Bridge at the entrance to Jackson.
- Take a self-guided walking tour of the creative Return of the Pumpkin People displays scattered throughout town during October.
- Drive the Kancamagus Highway stopping at sights like the Albany Covered Bridge, Lower Falls and Sugar Hill Overlook for prime foliage views.
- Visit Mount Washington via the Auto Road or Cog Railway for incredible views.
- Explore Crawford Notch or Franconia Notch state parks for hikes, waterfalls and mountain views.
- Enjoy the local scene by popping into the town’s deli or tavern.
Where to stay:
- The Wentworth Inn: A historic inn with elegant rooms and a romantic atmosphere.
- Eagle Mountain House & Golf Club: A charming mountain hotel with panoramic views and classic New England style.
- Other options: For more privacy, book a cabin or Airbnb surrounded by fall foliage.
6. Bar Harbor, Maine
Go here if you want: A lively coastal town filled with restaurants, bars, gift shops, and art galleries, plus scenic ocean walks and easy access to Acadia National Park.
Why visit: Perched on the eastern shore of Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is Maine’s famous coastal town and the gateway to Acadia National Park. In fall, the combination of foliage, rocky coastlines, and cool ocean breezes makes this destination the perfect place to spend a few autumnal days. You can start your day with a crisp, salty-aired stroll along the Shore Path, then pick up a pumpkin spiced latte from the local coffee shop and relax in the golden-leafed shade of Agamont Park, and then explore the charming downtown lined with independent boutiques, bookstores, and antique shops. Another day can be spent in Acadia National Park. In fall, the park’s forests blaze with red maples, golden birches, and deep orange oaks, set against dramatic cliffs and Atlantic waves. Hike one of the many trails in the park or take a scenic loop drive to experience the fall foliage.
Top things to do:
- Stroll along the Shore Path for beautiful views of Frenchman Bay and nearby islands.
- Walk across the natural land bridge to Bar Island at low tide.
- Browse boutiques for Maine-made goods, artisan crafts and cosy fall decor.
- Visit Acadia National Park for fall foliage, hiking, beaches and incredible views.
Where to stay:
- Bar Harbor Inn & Spa: A waterfront hotel with stunning bay views, perfect for a romantic fall getaway.
- Other options: There are many inns located in town to take your pick of. Alternatively, just outside of town you’ll find budget friendly hotels and motels.
7. Camden, Maine
Go here if you want: A charming harbour town with boutique shops, fresh seafood, ocean and mountain views.
Why visit: Situated along Maine’s Midcoast, Camden offers coastal beauty and fall foliage. Enjoy a crisp fall morning walking the harbourfront, spend the afternoon hiking for sweeping foliage views, and finish the day with a lobster dinner overlooking Penobscot Bay. In fall, the surrounding Camden Hills are a favourite for leaf peepers who want both foliage and ocean vistas. For the best panoramic view, head up Mount Battie either by a short hike or by car to see the patchwork of autumn colours spilling down to the deep blue waters of the bay. The historic downtown is lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés, many of which decorate their storefronts with pumpkins and chrysanthemums in October. And if you’re visiting in early fall, you might catch the Camden International Film Festival, which brings a lively arts crowd to town.
Top things to do:
- Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Bettie for fall foliage and ocean views.
- Stroll the waterfront and watch the busy harbour.
- Browse boutique shops in downtown for handmade goods and enjoy fresh seafood at harbour side restaurants.
- Take a schooner sail or harbor cruise to see the coastline in its autumn glory.
Where to stay:
- Camden Harbour Inn: An elegant and historic inn, with stunning harbour views.
- Other options: Charming B&Bs throughout town, many offer ocean views and hearty New England breakfasts.
8. Bath, Maine
Go here if you want: An off the beaten path Maine town with quiet charm, a historic downtown, an excellent farmers market and gift shops.
Why visit: Bath has a rich maritime history and a calm, small-town feel that makes it perfect for a relaxing fall getaway. Located in Midcoast Maine along the Kennebec River, Bath was once a bustling hub for shipbuilding. In the fall, the streets of Bath are lined with colourful foliage and historic brick buildings, giving the town an old-world New England atmosphere. Stroll the walkable downtown, where you’ll find locally owned boutiques, cozy cafés, and antique stores. Many of the grand sea captains’ homes have been restored and converted into elegant bed-and-breakfast inns, offering that quintessential New England hospitality. And as the town is off the beaten path, the inns are more affordable than in other, more popular New England towns. One of the highlights of visiting in autumn is the Bath Farmers Market, held on the scenic waterfront under colourful maple trees every Saturday through the end of October. You’ll find freshly caught seafood, seasonal vegetables, homemade breads, local honey, artisanal cheeses, and unique handmade crafts, making it a perfect spot to pick up both picnic supplies and souvenirs. For history lovers, Bath is also home to the Maine Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the region’s shipbuilding heritage and even take a cruise on the river for beautiful fall foliage views.
Top things to do:
- Explore the historic downtown where you can browse boutiques, gift shops and galleries housed in 19th century brick buildings.
- Visit the Bath Farmers Market held Saturdays along the waterfront.
- Tour the Maritime Museum to learn about Bath’s shipbuilding history.
- Enjoy local dining to try Maine seafood classics like lobster rolls or clam chowder.
Where to stay:
- Pryor House B&B: A beautifully restored 1820s home with elegant rooms, warm hospitality and a fantastic breakfast serving treats like homemade pumpkin muffins.
- Benjamin F. Packard House: Another historic inn with period charm and easy access to downtown.
9. Perkins Cove, Maine
Go here if you want: A quintessential New England seaside village with charming fall and Halloween displays, ocean walks, cosy seafood restaurants and boutique shopping.
Why visit: While Perkins Cove isn’t technically a town itself as it is located within the town of Ogunquit, it deserves a place on this list for its pretty fishing village centre. The cove combines rugged coastal scenery with classic New England charm. In fall, clapboard cottages and storefronts are adorned with pumpkins, cornstalks, and festive Halloween displays, making it one of the most atmospheric coastal spots to visit this time of year. At the heart of Perkins Cove is its working fishing harbour. The small streets are lined with art galleries, gift shops, and local cafés, making it an ideal place to spend a slow afternoon. The highlight for many visitors is the Marginal Way, a stunning mile-long cliffside path that winds along the Atlantic Ocean, offering panoramic views, benches for quiet moments and plenty of photo opportunities. Perkins Cove is also a fantastic place to sample fresh Maine seafood, with lobster rolls, chowder and crab cakes all on offer at restaurants overlooking the water.
Top things to do:
- Walk the Marginal Way ocean path for views along the Maine coast.
- Enjoy fresh seafood including lobster rolls or a warm bowl of clam chowder at one of the harbour front restaurants.
- Browse the shops from nautical theme boutiques to an excellent Christmas store.
- Capture fall decorations at the homes and storefronts which go all out with pumpkins and festive displays.
Where to stay:
- The Beachmere Inn: An inn overlooking the Marginal Way with rooms that have ocean views.
- Other options: Airbnb’s and vacation rentals, many of which offer views of the cove.
10. Salem, Massachusetts
Go here if you want: All things fall and halloween, deep witchcraft history, immersive seasonal festivals, and one-of-a-kind shopping.
Why visit: If there’s one town in New England to visit during the fall, it’s Salem. While it may not have the small town charm and beauty of the other places on this list, it more than makes up for with its atmosphere, history and energy that peaks every October. Salem’s fame comes from the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, when a wave of hysteria led to accusations, interrogations, and the tragic execution of 20 people, most of them women. Today, Salem embraces its history, blending colonial heritage, maritime traditions, and modern-day witch culture into an unforgettable fall experience. During the Halloween season, the town bursts into life with Haunted Happenings, a month-long celebration filled with costume parades, psychic fairs, haunted houses, ghost tours, and street performers. Visitors can explore the Salem Witch Trials Memorial for a moving historical perspective, tour the Witch House (the only building still standing with direct ties to the trials), or wander through Salem’s historic waterfront for a taste of its maritime past. Shopping here is an experience in itself where you can pick up spell books, crystals, tarot decks, and locally made curiosities.
Top things to do:
- Visit the 17th Century Witch House, home of Judge Jonathan Corwin for an authentic glimpse into the witch trials.
- See the Salem Witch Trials Memorial to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the trials.
- Stroll down Essex Street which is lined with historic mansions.
- Go shopping to find everything from handmade spell candles to witchcraft decor.
- Explore Salem’s maritime waterfront to learn about its seafaring history and enjoy the harbour views.
- Join in on haunted happenings including ghost walks and pumpkin-lit parades.
Where to stay:
- Hawthorne Hotel: An elegant and rumored to be haunted hotel, perfect for Halloween enthusiasts.
- Other options: Many Airbnb’s and vacation rentals that offer historic charm and prime locations for festival events.
Let us know if you have any questions about the towns on this list in the comments section below. Happy exploring!
