North Conway, New Hampshire in the fall

My Favorite Places for Fall Foliage in New England

While the fall season doesn’t last long (enough), it is spectacular and there are so many amazing places to see fall foliage in New England. Aside from the stunning show nature puts on, there’s just something in the air in New England in the fall. It’s hard to describe but it’s a magical experience. I’m used to experiencing fall foliage much later in the season having lived in Rhode Island for most of my life. Now that we’re in Vermont during fall we’re treated to a vibrant display even sooner. The nice thing is you can experience fall foliage at so many different times from September-November depending on where you go throughout New England.

If you’re thinking about coming to New England in the fall, trust me when I say, it’s worth it. Here are some of my favorite places to see fall foliage in New England, I promise you can’t go wrong with any of them.

My Favorite Places for Fall Foliage in New England

Woodstock, Vermont

Jess Ann Kirby picks Woodstock, Vermont as one of her favorite places in New England for fall foliage.
Fall foliage from above in woodstock, vermont

I had to start with the most charming town we get to call home, Woodstock, VT. It’s beautiful, it’s charming, it’s quaint, and it’s conveniently located from Boston and New York City. We love it so much we literally moved here in 2020! From winding country roads to beautiful old farmhouses and charming country stores, Woodstock is quintessential New England. They also have a great food scene and plenty of activities. Peak foliage varies depending on the weather but this year is happening now (late September/early October).

while you’re there

A stop into Farmhouse Pottery is a must. There’s something for everyone at FH Gillingham & Sons. Check out Simon Pearce and see glass blowing in action, they also have a restaurant. Go for a hike at Mt. Tom, you can’t beat the view. Grab lunch at one of the newer spots in town Santé for the most incredible farm to table plates. After grab a drink and small bites at the chicest cocktail bar Au Comptoir. For the full Woodstock experience check out my Woodstock Guide!


Camden, Maine

Jess Ann Kirby recommends visiting Camden, Maine for some of the best fall foliage in New England.
morning view of the harbor in camden, maine

Craig and I went to Camden a few years ago in early October and it did not disappoint. The charming seaside town is just under 2 hours from Portland. It was surprisingly quiet during our visit, I think it’s more a summer destination, so it was even more special because we felt like we had it to ourselves. Peak foliage typically starts around early October.

while you’re there

Hike around Camden Hills State Park or you can drive right up to the top for views of Camden harbor. Grab breakfast at Boynton McKay and if you can get a reservation or eat early, Long Grain is the most amazing Thai fusion restaurant for dinner.

My Favorite Places for Fall Foliage in New England
sunrise in the harbor in camden maine

North Conway, New Hampshire

Jess Ann Kirby ranks North Conway, New Hampshire as one of the best places for viewing foliage.
kancamangus highway in new hampshire

There’s nothing quite like a drive down the Kancamangus during peak foliage in New Hampshire. It is a sight that will take your breath away. North Conway is a charming New Hampshire town in Mount Washington Valley. If you’re looking for a laid back, low key vibe, New Hampshire is the spot. There’s tons of hiking and scenic destinations around North Conway and the White Mountains.

While you’re there

Take the scenic drive on Highway 112 from North Conway to Lincoln. For an easy but stunning walk head to Echo Lake State Park. If you’re looking for more of a hike check out Cathedral Ledge (this is also a popular rock climbing spot, my Dad and brothers have done it a few times). There’s incredible views from the top of North Conway and the White Mountains. Grab breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor (this is actually in Sugar Hill). If you worked up an appetite hiking, check out Barley & Salt. Peak foliage is typically early-mid October.

Jess Ann Kirby enjoys the country roads of North Conway, New Hampshire for seeing fall foliage in New England.
a country road in north conway, nh

Newport, RI

Jess Ann Kirby visits Storer Park in Newport for the best fall foliage in New England.
storer park, newport ri, in the fall

You didn’t think I’d leave out my hometown did you? Our foliage season in Newport is a bit later than other destinations up north, usually mid-late October and into November, but it’s definitely beautiful. One of my favorite things about fall here is it’s usually still mild weather, so you get perfect temps and stunning landscapes.

while you’re here

Walk around the Point neighborhood to see charming colonials decorated for fall. Stunning foliage is on display all around the island, walk down Bellevue Ave or take a cruise along Ocean Drive. Pick your own at Sweet Berry Farm and Rocky Brook Orchard. An annual tradition, the Harvest Fair has lots of local food vendors and is very kid friendly. Trinity Church in town has an annual pumpkin patch, check their website for dates. Nitro has some yummy seasonal coffee drinks and bites. For the best of what to see, do and eat in Newport check out The Newport Guide.

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9 responses

  1. Jessica Camerata

    The colors are INSANE here. This is what I love about fall. But sadly, in the south, we do not have those gorgeous maple trees and get those rich yellows and reds. It’s such a northern thing and reminds me so much of my childhood! Must make a visit to Rhode Island.

    xo Jessica
    My Style Vita

    1. Jess

      Yes you need to!

  2. Alan

    Beautiful photos

  3. Rachel

    So many good places to enjoy the foliage!! I haven’t driven along the Kancamangus in years and will definitely be making a point to drive it this fall.

    Rachel
    http://www.hello-her.com

    1. Jess

      It is just magic in the fall. xx

  4. Don

    U left out jeffersonville vt. Up to smugglers notch for beauty over into Stowe vt

  5. Ellen Gilbert Bacigalupi

    Been following you and Craig now for 4 years. Love all your content. Lived in New England for 12 years! Your channel has brought me much joy. So happy for you and your family to be happy in your life. Will continue to follow your journey.

  6. FoodDoz

    Thanks for the adventures post. http://www.fooddoz.com

  7. Janelle

    I am trying to figure out what is best time in 2023 to visit Rhode Island for fall folliage? We are thinking if oct 7-12.

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