A New England Fall Bucket List: 5 Iconic Activities to Embrace the Season
As summer gives way to the crisp, cool days of autumn, New England undergoes a breathtaking transformation that captures the essence of the season.
There’s a certain magic in the air as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, blanketing the landscape in a warm, golden glow.
The region’s charming small towns, historic villages, and picturesque countryside come alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of fall, making it the perfect destination to embrace the season.
For many, autumn in New England is not just a time of year; it’s a cherished tradition, a time to reconnect with nature, celebrate the harvest, and indulge in the simple pleasures of life.
Whether you’re a lifelong New Englander or a first-time visitor, the region offers an abundance of activities that showcase the best of what fall has to offer.
From scenic drives through the rolling hills to savoring fresh apple cider at a local orchard, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the season in all its glory.
In this article, I’ll guide you through five iconic activities that should be on every New England fall bucket list.
These experiences capture the essence of autumn in the region, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and seasonal delights.
1. Leaf Peeping on the Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Leaf peeping is synonymous with fall in New England, and there’s no better place to witness the stunning display of autumn foliage than on the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire.
Often referred to simply as “The Kanc,” this 34.5-mile stretch of road winds through the White Mountain National Forest, offering some of the most spectacular views of fall colors in the region.
The Kancamagus Highway is a designated American Scenic Byway, and for good reason.
The route takes you through a diverse landscape of mountains, rivers, and forests, with countless opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.
Along the way, you’ll find scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic areas where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
Must-See Highlight: The Sabbaday Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, is a popular stop along the highway.
A short hike leads you to the falls, where you can enjoy the soothing sound of rushing water amid the colorful backdrop.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-September to early October, when the foliage is at its peak.
2. Apple Picking at Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Massachusetts
Autumn in New England wouldn’t be complete without a trip to an apple orchard, and Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow, Massachusetts, is one of the best spots to indulge in this classic fall activity.
With over 200 acres of apple trees, Honey Pot Hill offers a quintessential apple-picking experience that’s perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
The orchard grows a wide variety of apples, including popular favorites like McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and Cortland.
As you wander through the rows of trees, you can pick your own apples, filling your bag with the freshest fruit straight from the branch.
In addition to apple picking, Honey Pot Hill offers a range of other activities, including hayrides, hedge mazes, and a farm store where you can stock up on fresh cider, apple cider donuts, and other seasonal treats.
Must-See Highlight: Don’t miss the chance to try Honey Pot Hill’s famous apple cider donuts, freshly made and bursting with the flavors of fall.
Pair them with a cup of warm apple cider for the perfect autumn treat.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to October, when the apple harvest is in full swing.
3. Exploring the Covered Bridges of Vermont
Vermont is known for its charming covered bridges, and fall is the ideal time to explore these historic structures.
With their rustic wooden frames and scenic surroundings, Vermont’s covered bridges are a symbol of the state’s rural heritage and a favorite subject for photographers and history enthusiasts.
There are over 100 covered bridges scattered across Vermont, each with its own unique story and architectural style.
Some of the most famous include the Cornish-Windsor Bridge, one of the longest wooden bridges in the United States, and the beautiful Quechee Gorge Bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As you drive through the countryside, you’ll discover that many of these bridges are located in picturesque settings, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, rolling hills, and babbling brooks.
Must-See Highlight: The Woodstock Middle Bridge in Woodstock, Vermont, is one of the most photographed covered bridges in the state.
Its idyllic location near the town center and its classic New England charm make it a must-see during your fall travels.
Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-October, when the fall foliage is at its most vibrant.
4. Attending the Deerfield Fair, New Hampshire
The Deerfield Fair, held annually in Deerfield, New Hampshire, is one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States, dating back to 1876.
This iconic fall event is a celebration of New England’s agricultural heritage, offering a delightful mix of entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities.
At the Deerfield Fair, you can experience a variety of traditional fair attractions, including livestock shows, horse pulls, and tractor displays.
The fair also features a large midway with rides and games, as well as an array of food vendors offering everything from fried dough to apple pie.
One of the highlights of the fair is the giant pumpkin contest, where local farmers compete to see who can grow the biggest pumpkin—a true spectacle of fall.
Must-See Highlight: The giant pumpkin contest is a must-see event at the Deerfield Fair, where you can marvel at pumpkins weighing over a thousand pounds.
It’s a fun and impressive display of New England’s farming prowess.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October, when the fair is in full swing and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
5. Taking a Scenic Train Ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, New Hampshire
For a truly memorable fall experience, hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, New Hampshire.
This historic train ride offers a unique way to enjoy the stunning fall foliage of the White Mountains, with routes that take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in New England.
The Conway Scenic Railroad offers several different excursions, ranging from short scenic trips to full-day adventures.
One of the most popular routes is the “Notch Train,” which travels through Crawford Notch, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, ravines, and waterfalls, all set against a backdrop of vibrant fall colors.
The vintage train cars and friendly staff add to the charm of the experience, making it a perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of the season.
Must-See Highlight: The Notch Train’s journey over the Frankenstein Trestle, a historic railway bridge that offers dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October, when the fall foliage is at its peak and the weather is crisp and clear.
Conclusion
Autumn in New England is a season like no other, filled with natural beauty, rich traditions, and unforgettable experiences.
From the vibrant fall foliage of the Kancamagus Highway to the charming covered bridges of Vermont and the festive atmosphere of the Deerfield Fair, there are countless ways to embrace the magic of the season.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these five iconic activities should be at the top of your New England fall bucket list.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
