Crisp Air & Stunning Views: A Guide to New England in Fall

There’s no place quite like Salem in the fall. Here, history, mystery, and Halloween magic collide as the leaves turn and this famously witchy town comes alive for spooky season. From haunted tours and Hocus Pocus filming spots to tarot readings, witch shops, and cozy cafés, Salem is the ultimate fall destination for those who love autumn adventures and the supernatural. Just be sure to book early, October in Salem is no secret. 

Wondering where to stay? We recommend The Merchant, The Hotel Salem, Hawthorne Hotel (ask them about their ghost stories), or The Coach House (also haunted!).  

Your New England road trip this autumn isn’t complete without apple picking—and New Hampshire practically screams mountain summit, crisp Pink Lady. This season, venture to Applecrest Farm, New Hampshire’s oldest and largest apple orchard. Four generations of the founder’s family have worked the farms, dedicated to their simple mission of sustainably growing the finest fruit and vegetables available. Not only do they have over 40 varieties of apples, sweet corn, pumpkins, and beyond, they also have jugs of their all-natural apple cider, famous made-from-scratch hot cider donuts, and an array of other locally produced farm goods beneath the timbers of their 200 year-old barn. 

Stay the night nearby at Lamie's Inn and The Old Salt Restaurant before venturing to Lake Winnipesaukee (stay at Ames Farm Inn & Resort here!) to enjoy the foggy mornings, cozy cabins, and sunset boat rides. It’s simple, stunning, and peak fall. 

Like Salem, Connecticut is also a great place to dive into your spooky side. Explore the various haunted houses like The Enigmatic Huguenot House in East Hartford or learn about the duel haunting at The Glebe House in Woodbury if you’re looking for a thrill. There’s so much history in this state that the stories don’t get scarier than here. 

Looking for a place to stay while ghost hunting? In East Harford, stay at The Goodwin or DELAMAR West Hartford and when it comes to Woodbury, it’s got to be 1754 House. 

Maine in the fall is the perfect mix of misty mornings, knit sweaters, and the kind of fresh air that makes you understand what John Denver was singing about. Start with a road trip along the coast via rocky shorelines, lighthouses, and lobster rolls. Venture to a seaside town like Camden (stay at Blue Harbor House Inn or 16 Bay View) or Kennebunkport (stay at Kennebunkport Inn), where every bookstore, bakery, and boutique looks like it was designed for autumn before arriving in York for their Harvestfest, a free family festival that features live music by local bands, homegrown food vendors, craft and market vendors from all over New England, and even storytelling, interactive activities, and a roaming railroad for the kids.

When it comes to fall getaways New England, Rhode Island is where crisp sea breezes meet crunchy leaves and sweater weather. Think autumn beach walks in Newport and gallery hopping in Providence—can you imagine a better combination? While you’re in town, add in the Jack-o-lantern Spectacular at the Roger Williams Park Zoo and you’ll be as golden as the leaves. This second annual trivia event is sure to bring pumpkin vibes and some spooky surprises. 

Need a recommendation when it comes to where to stay? We got you covered. In Newport, we love Gilded, Island House Newport, and Gardiner House. Our Providence favorites are The Beatrice and Edgewood Manor Inn.

This fall, spend a weekend wandering through a quaint town like Stowe or Woodstock, popping into general stores, sipping cider, and exploring weekend farmers’ markets before taking on the iconic Great Vermont Maze. Tucked away in the hills of Danville, this maze is not your average fall activity. As the largest corn maze in New England, this massive, family-run labyrinth spans over 24 acres and takes around 2–3 hours to complete. With twists, turns, dead ends, and stunning mountain views, it’s the perfect mix of challenge and charm. 

Here’s where to stay while you’re in the area: Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge (Stowe), Brass Lantern Inn (Stowe), The Shire Woodstock (Woodstock), On the River Inn (Woodstock), Cherry House Bed and Breakfast (Danville), and Rabbit Hill Inn (Danville). 

There’s no topping New England in fall. Happy exploring!

New England Inns and Resorts was founded in 1907 and has been devoted to providing unforgettable experiences ever since. With over 300 hotels, inns, and resorts located across New England, we support exceptional hospitality with a dedication to keeping it local at every location.