Four Fall Experiences in New England

New England is beautiful at any time of year – but can any season top fall? Bright leaves exploding in a thousand colors, apple picking, fresh produce, apple cider, long hikes, and beautiful landscapes – no other region in the US can top New England.

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Why Cambridge and not Boston? Well, any household that received a stream of college brochures in the mail can attest that college campuses seem to perpetually be photographed in the autumn months. You might as well go to Harvard and see the most famous campus of all in full autumnal glory, characterized by its brick architecture and students gathering beneath trees.

Harvard Yard is a wonderful place for a stroll throughout the year, but something just takes over when fall hits. Enjoy America's most famous college campus and unwind with the fun bars and cheap eats of Harvard Square, one of Cambridge's most vibrant neighborhoods.

Brattleboro, Vermont

Most Vermont fall getaways center around seeing the foliage at its best and doing little more than enjoying the outdoors – but Brattleboro gives you the opportunity to do something more. If you're the kind of traveler who needs activities and entertainment on your trip, Brattleboro is the perfect destination for you.

Brattleboro is home to lots of quirky shops, art galleries, live music and a theater. The town may also be one of the best places in Vermont to have a culinary fall getaway, with top-rated breweries and coffee shops, as well as plenty of cheese shops stocked up with Vermont cheddar. Don’t forget to grab a few bottles of maple syrup!

Block Island, Rhode Island

This small island off the coast of Rhode Island is a popular summer destination, thanks to its beautiful beaches, bird watching, and laid-back atmosphere. But visiting during the fall means you'll get all of the perks with a fraction of the tourists, making it a perfect quiet weekend getaway for recharging your batteries.

The best way to enjoy the fall foliage on Block Island is to take in the Greenway Trails – a series of hiking trails that crisscross along the island. The island's small size makes it easy for all levels of hikers to enjoy the beautiful scenery without working too hard. This is an island designed for relaxation, after all!

New Hampshire by Train

It's hard to go wrong anywhere in New Hampshire in the fall – whether you’re looking for mountains or lakes, fun cities or a tiny sliver of seashore, you'll love this state in the autumn months.

But what most people don't know is that New Hampshire is covered in scenic railways. While most run in all but the snowiest months, fall is the ultimate time to take these journeys and enjoy the fall colors.

The Conway Scenic Railroad takes in the best of the White Mountains, while the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is a brilliant journey around New Hampshire’s most famous lake. For a more hardcore train ride, take the Mount Washington Cog Railway up New England's highest mountain. Either way, there are few better ways to see the New Hampshire foliage than while gliding through the countryside.

Have you been to New England in the fall?

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.