New England

New England is famous for its breathtaking fall foliage, and the trio of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine offers some of the most vibrant autumn landscapes in the USA. These states attract thousands of visitors each year, eager to witness the stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows that blanket the forests and mountains.

Best Time to Visit New England for Fall Colors

The peak season for fall colors in New England is typically late September to mid-October. However, this can vary slightly depending on the weather each year. To experience the foliage at its best, it’s advisable to monitor local forecasts and foliage trackers for up-to-date information.

Vermont: Classic Fall Landscapes

Vermont is often considered the heart of New England’s fall foliage scene. With its rolling hills, covered bridges, and quaint small towns, Vermont offers a picturesque backdrop for your autumn adventure.

• Top Locations to Visit:
  • Smugglers' Notch – A beautiful mountain pass offering stunning views of fall foliage.
  • Green Mountain Byway – A scenic drive that takes you through charming towns like Stowe and Waterbury, surrounded by autumn colors.
• Nearby Hotels:
  • Topnotch Resort (Stowe) – A luxury mountain resort perfect for a relaxing stay during your foliage tour.
  • Trapp Family Lodge – A European-style resort in Stowe, ideal for families and couples looking for a scenic autumn retreat.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Ben & Jerry’s Factory – A fun stop near Waterbury.
  • Shelburne Museum – A collection of historic buildings and gardens showcasing New England history.
• Business Travel Tip: If you're traveling for work, Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, is home to a thriving corporate community and the University of Vermont.

New Hampshire: The Granite State’s Autumn Wonders

New Hampshire is another fall foliage hotspot, offering scenic drives, mountain views, and peaceful lakes.

• Top Locations to Visit:
  • Kancamagus Highway – This 34-mile scenic byway through the White Mountains is one of the most famous fall drives in the USA.
  • Franconia Notch State Park – A perfect spot for hiking and photographing vibrant fall colors.
• Nearby Hotels:
  • Omni Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods) – A historic and luxurious hotel with spectacular mountain views.
  • RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain (Lincoln) – Ideal for those looking to stay close to the White Mountains and fall foliage trails.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Mount Washington Cog Railway – A unique way to experience the fall scenery while ascending the Northeast's highest peak.
  • Flume Gorge – A stunning natural gorge surrounded by fall colors.
• Business Travel Tip: Manchester is New Hampshire’s business hub, with easy access to corporate offices and universities like Southern New Hampshire University.

Maine: Rugged Coastlines and Colorful Forests

Maine offers a diverse fall experience, from its rocky coastline to its vast forests. The combination of autumn leaves and scenic ocean views is a unique attraction in this region.

• Top Locations to Visit:
  • Acadia National Park – One of the most beautiful national parks in the USA, where mountains meet the ocean, providing a striking backdrop to the fall colors.
  • Rangeley Lakes Region – Known for its beautiful lakes and mountain views, especially stunning in autumn.
• Nearby Hotels:
  • The Claremont Hotel (Southwest Harbor) – A historic seaside hotel located near Acadia National Park.
  • Kennebunkport Inn – A charming inn perfect for those wanting to explore the coast and nearby fall foliage.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Bar Harbor – A charming coastal town offering easy access to Acadia National Park and stunning fall landscapes.
  • Portland Head Light – One of Maine’s most photographed lighthouses, offering views of the Atlantic and nearby fall foliage.
• Business Travel Tip: Portland, Maine’s largest city, is a growing business hub and home to several corporate offices, including WEX Inc. and Unum Group.

Planning Your Trip: Travel Tips and Recommendations

• Stay Close to Nature: Booking accommodations near popular foliage spots like Stowe, Burlington, or Bar Harbor will allow you to enjoy the full splendor of fall without extensive travel.
• Combine Business and Leisure: New England is home to major universities and corporate offices, making it easy for business travelers to mix work with pleasure.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss iconic landmarks like Mount Washington, Acadia National Park, or even small towns like Woodstock, Vermont, where the fall colors are at their peak.

By visiting Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine during the fall, you'll be treated to some of the most magnificent autumn landscapes in the world. Whether you're exploring for leisure or mixing business with pleasure, these states offer plenty of activities, scenic drives, and charming hotels for a memorable experience.