Fall Weekend Getaways on the East Coast
Nothing is like the crisp air during the fall season, especially on the East Coast! When planning your next autumn vacation, there’s no better location for experiencing fall than on the East Coast of the USA.
In this part of the United States, you’ll discover picture-perfect views of vibrant colors, charming hotels and inns, delicious seasonal cuisine and incredible outdoor activities, especially if you plan a fall road trip!
Growing up in New Jersey, I’ve experienced beautiful falls in my own state and the Northeast. Even though you can see beautiful autumn colors around the country, the most stunning fall foliage I’ve witnessed was during my 7-day New England road trip. Don’t worry, though; you don’t have only to visit New England to enjoy the best fall vacation spots on the East Coast!
In this article, discover the best fall vacations on the East Coast of the United States, from the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee!
Here are the best small towns in New England to visit in the fall.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.
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East Coast Fall Vacation Ideas:
There is nothing better than traveling during the shoulder season. The summer crowds are gone, which allows you to enjoy all the popular spots and activities to the fullest.
Below are the best East Coast fall vacations you must experience in America! These destinations are great for vacations on the East Coast from late September through early November.
Best Fall Vacations in New England:
New England always comes to mind when I dream about the best fall vacations on the East Coast. From the charming small towns to the historic sites, there isn’t a more perfect time to visit the Northeast! Here are great New England spots to visit on the East Coast in the fall:
Portland, Maine:
Portland, Maine is one of the world’s most charming cities and is the perfect place for fall weekend getaways in the northeast in the U.S.
In Portland, you will experience incredible seafood, natural beauty and stunning coastal architecture. My favorite places to dine and drink in this charming city are Eventide Oyster Co., Gilbert’s Chowder House, The Holy Donut and Shipyard Brewing Company.
During an East Coast autumn getaway to Portland, ME, stay at Blind Tiger by Lark Hotels. It’s a 19th-Century luxurious guest house in the West End of Portland, within walking distance to downtown. The living areas are peaceful for reading; there are modern amenities to watch your favorite Halloween films, food and drinks to make comforting fall beverages and treats, a pool table for making memories with friends, spacious and uniquely decorated bedrooms to make you feel at home, an excellent breakfast to fuel you for the day and a Peloton bike to keep you in shape.
A fall trip to Portland also wouldn’t be complete without viewing the area’s historic lighthouses. I recommend seeing the Spring Point Ledge Light in South Portland and the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth!
After savoring some of the best lobster you’ll ever taste at Bite Into Maine or The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, you must stroll along Portland’s southern beaches, such as Old Orchard Beach. Next, take the scenic fall walk along the Eastern Promenade trail. At this picturesque spot, you’ll find breathtaking views of the harbor and Casco Bay, full of vibrant autumn colors.
If you’re looking for a fun adventure from Portland, head north to Acadia National Park for excellent fall hiking, crisp weather, scenic views and wonderful memories. During a trip to this National Park, visiting Bar Harbor is a must.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts:
No matter the time of the year, I’m constantly dreaming about the autumn streets of the Berkshires. If you are looking for a lovely, quaint and laid-back area to travel to for one of the best fall East Coast trips, you must visit the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts!
Overall, experiencing fall in the Berkshires is the perfect place for wellness and well-being. I recommend staying at Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa to renew and relax. You can enjoy great hiking, yoga, biking, equestrian riding and archery.
Since New England has charming inns and bed and breakfasts, I suggest booking a cozy stay at the Red Lion Inn. Located in Stockbridge, MA, the Red Lion Inn was established in the 1700s but burnt down in a fire during the 1800s and has been rebuilt and renovated a few times. This lovely inn has spacious, cozy rooms, wonderful restaurants and a heated pool.
One of the best things to do in the Berkshires in the fall is to enjoy miles of hiking trails. A great hiking option is to the highest point in Massachusetts – Mount Greylock, near North Adams. Monument Mountain, a short drive from Stockbridge, is also a scenic hike during autumn.
In addition, the Berkshires also have great dining opportunities and numerous cocktail bars and breweries to check out, like District Kitchen & Lounge in Pittsfield. There is no better way to embrace fall vibes than visiting Balderdash Cellars near Pittsfield, too!
Boston, Massachusetts:
Another one of the best cities to visit during a fall vacation on the East Coast is Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is one of the top fall getaways on the East Coast because it is filled with fun bars, beautiful parks, charming neighborhoods and great eateries.
Boston is a popular destination during the fall months, but there are great things to do for all ages!
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is one of the best places to stay during a fall trip. It’s a stylish luxury hotel with comfortable and spacious rooms with harbor views. It also has a few restaurants, including Lifted, at the rooftop pool and the Sporting Club to enjoy Game Day.
If you’re looking for more places to get a drink or a delicious bite, Boston has many trendy speakeasies, like Drink, and iconic restaurants, like Pauli’s. I also love grabbing a drink at Fairmont Copley Plaza and enjoying brick oven pizza at State Street Provisions. Don’t forget to enjoy some great beer at Harpoon Brewery!
The lovely Beacon Hill neighborhood is one of the best places for a fall stroll in Boston, Massachusetts. This area of Boston is one of the most desirable places to live as the houses are gorgeous and the sidewalks are elegantly paved with bricks.
Other wonderful spots to enjoy fall foliage in Boston are the Boston Common, Boston Public Garden and the Harvard University campus in Cambridge. For fall sports lovers, become completely emerged into Boston culture at a New England Patriots game.
Salem, Massachusetts:
For those looking to get into the Halloween spirit this fall, you must add Salem, Massachusetts to your East Coast vacation bucket list!
Salem is famous for the 1692 Salem Witch Trials and was the filming location for the 1993 film Hocus Pocus. During a stay at this fun Halloween city, you must book The Merchant by Lark Hotels, located in the downtown area, or Harbor Light Inn in the charming town of Marblehead.
Overall, October is a great time to be in Salem! The best places to eat and drink in the city that contribute to its fall fun are Gulu-Gulu Café for breakfast, which has excellent decorations; Bambolina for lunch, which has delicious Neapolitan pizza and Ledger Restaurant for dinner, located in an old bank. You must also enjoy a refreshing craft beer, cider or cocktail at Notch Brewery, Far from the Tree cidery and The Flying Saucer.
One of the best things to do in Salem during a fall vacation on the East Coast is to learn about the witches at the Salem Witch Museum, The Witch House or on a walking tour. You must also visit the House of the Seven Gables, the 17th-Century mansion home to Nathaniel Hawthorne, writer of “The Scarlett Letter”.
A perfect way to spend a beautiful early October day in Salem is also by seeing the Hocus Pocus filming locations such as The Ropes Mansion (Allison’s House), the residential home of Max and Dani’s house, Old Town Hall (where the Halloween party took place), Pioneer Village in Forest River Park, Phillips Elementary School on Salem Common and Old Burial Hill in Marblehead.
You must also stroll around the city and admire the spooky decorations, do a ghost tour, participate in a Salem Haunted Happenings event and stop in one of the many shops like Wynott’s Wands, Wicked Good Books, Haus Witch, The Covens Cottage and ASCEND Get Lifted.
White Mountains, New Hampshire:
New Hampshire’s White Mountains is one of the best places to visit in the fall to view foliage on the east coast.
The White Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, full of bright colors and breathtaking views. Some hiking highlights include seeing Franconia Notch State Park’s waterfalls, lakes and rivers. Artist Bluff is also an easy 1.5-mile hike with fall foliage and scenic mountain views.
After hiking, ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and view nature from above. You also can’t pass up visiting Crawford Notch State Park to enjoy its nature, wildlife and camping opportunities!
Additionally, the White Mountains are one of the best fall vacation destinations on the East Coast for dining and drinks. There are a lot of epic breweries in this area, but some great spots for food are Covered Bridge Farm Table and Polly’s Pancake Parlor.
One of the best fall resorts on the East Coast is the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods. It features comforting rooms, spectacular views of the highest peak in New Hampshire and local wildlife and cozy fire pits for the cooler weather.
Newport, Rhode Island:
In addition to being a summer destination, Newport, Rhode Island is one of the most exciting fall getaways on the east coast. It is also noted as one of the most romantic spots in America, making it a fantastic East Coast vacation for couples!
The best place to stay during a fall trip to Newport is the Hammetts Hotel, located in the heart of the city, on the wharf. It boasts modern rooms with lovely views, great restaurants and bars and is within walking distance of the shops and activities of Newport.
Full of poetic coastal neighborhoods and scenic views with fall foliage, nature lovers will adore exploring Newport during the autumn months. The main reason why Newport makes for one of the best fall vacations on the East Coast is because it has the Cliff Walk! The Newport Cliff Walk is a gorgeous trail along the coastline where you can hike, fish, surf or relax on the beach.
Newport is also home to the most glamorous mansions on the East Coast! Bellevue Avenue has lavish and jaw-dropping Gilded Age “cottages” to tour, such as The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House.
Additionally, Newport, Rhode Island has a lot of great restaurants to enjoy, such as The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, The Red Parrot and Pasta Beach. It also boasts outstanding wineries like Greenvale Vineyards!
Woodstock & Stowe, Vermont:
Vermont is one of the best places to visit in the fall. It’s a great fall vacation on the East Coast because of its foliage, charming villages and the beautiful Green Mountains! In Vermont, you must do a mini road trip to visit Woodstock and Stowe.
During a trip to Woodstock and Stowe, you cannot miss visiting or staying at the Woodstock Inn, which gorgeous mums and other fall blooms surround. It’s one of the most beautiful fall resorts on the East Coast. You can also attend a wine or cooking class at this magnificent property and enjoy a drink by one of the cozy fireplaces. For a relaxing experience, you can book a service at the Inn’s spa.
Downtown Woodstock, Vermont is also the perfect location to experience all the fall vibes. There are cute cafés, boutique shops and historic buildings to keep you entertained! Woodstock is famous for its unique covered bridges and the iconic Sleepy Hollow Farm.
A couple hours north of Woodstock is Stowe. At this stunning location, you can get a taste of fall at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, which has freshly baked apple cider donuts at their onsite bakery, a cidery to taste local ciders as well as a country store and lunch spot to enjoy some goodies. Not too far from Cold Hollow Cider Mill is the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory!
If you’re looking for an epic bird’s eye view of Vermont’s fall colors, you can ride Stowe’s Gondola Skyride, or if you’d rather stay closer to the ground, Smuggler’s Notch is a beautiful, wooded area with hiking trails.
East Coast Fall Vacations in the Tri-State Area:
Another beautiful part of the country that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life coloring book is the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. The Tri-State area consists of New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.
Finger Lakes, New York:
One of my favorite fall vacations on the East Coast is the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York. It is one of the best fall weekend getaways, especially if you are 21 or older because it boasts some of the country’s most renowned wineries and vineyards!
Overall, there are a total of 11 lakes in the Finger Lakes wine region – Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco. The lake areas I recommend exploring are Seneca, Cayuga and Skaneateles.
A fall trip to the Finger Lakes must include staying at a cozy inn or bed and breakfast. Two great choices are the Inns of Aurora and The Bond 1835! For those staying at Inns of Aurora, two great wineries to visit are Long Point Winery and Bright Leaf Vineyard. A great restaurant to enjoy is Fargo Bar & Grill in Aurora.
In addition to wine, the Finger Lakes also has a lot of breathtaking hiking and nature trails! An epic spot to visit in this area is Watkins Glen. The geology behind Watkins Glen goes back to the Pleistocene era when the area was covered by ice. The movement of glaciers from the Laurentide and Wisconsin ice sheets shaped the Finger Lakes region.
Catskills, New York:
Are you looking for a relaxing and peaceful fall destination? The Catskills of New York are the perfect New York City getaway to renew and unwind.
The Catskills are among the best fall weekend getaways on the East Coast because they boast some of the most incredible foliage in the Tri-State area. During a trip to the Catskills, I recommend staying at a cabin through Getaway housing for a nature escape.
When you stay at a Getaway House in New York, you can enjoy a fall glamping retreat with plenty of hiking trails and endless outdoor activities. Some of the most memorable hiking trails are Kaaterskill Falls, Overlook Mountain Trail and one of the Catskill’s 35 peaks!
Also, the Catskills boasts some great wineries and breweries such as Hudson-Chatham Winery and Rip Van Winkle Brewing.
Hudson Valley, New York:
The Hudson Valley is a beautiful region located in Southern New York State. This area is full of great fall adventures, which makes it one of the top fall vacations on the East Coast and weekend getaways from New Jersey.
One of the best activities to do in the Hudson Valley during the fall is to go for a hike! You must hike at Harriman State Park, Bear Mountain State Park, Mount Beacon Park, Breakneck Ridge and around Mohonk Mountain House for incredible views.
This underrated location, around an hour outside of New York City, is also known for its local wineries! Some of the best Hudson Valley wineries and cideries to visit are Warwick Valley Winery, Pennings Orchard and Cidery, Angry Orchard, Benmarl Winery and Brotherhood Winery.
Another reason the Hudson Valley is a great fall destination is because there are plenty of apple orchards to pick local produce. There are also a lot of farms with great pumpkin picking and hayrides!
During a fall escape to the Hudson Valley, you must attend the annual Oktoberfest at Krucker’s in Pomona and the Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park! Overall, the Hudson Valley is one of the best and most memorable fall weekend getaways on the East Coast.
The best hotel in the Hudson Valley is Hotel Nyack in Nyack, New York. This trendy chic hotel was once a warehouse transformed into a place for creative souls and business travelers alike. Hotel Nyack has loft-style guest rooms, a pool, a bar and a restaurant called FARM at Nyack, which offers delicious seafood, pasta and steaks.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania:
The Pocono Mountains, better known as the Poconos, are among the best getaways to add to your East Coast fall vacation bucket list! The exciting outdoor activities here are endless and even more incredible during autumn.
The activities at Pocono Manor Resort are fantastic! You can enjoy archery, horseback riding, golf and more! For hikers, the Pocono Mountains are famous for the Appalachian Trail. Additionally, Bushkill Falls is a scenic hike for you to visit in Eastern Pennsylvania!
The best accommodation in the Poconos during an autumn trip is the Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, Pennsylvania. This all-inclusive luxury resort has impressive spa packages, fire pits to enjoy a fall bonfire, great restaurants and wonderful activities.
Lambertville and Manalapan, New Jersey:
New Jersey is one of the prettiest places to road trip during September and October. In addition to fun cities like Hoboken and Jersey City, along with the Jersey Shore beaches, New Jersey is also recognized for its stunning farms and gardens. (New Jersey is called the Garden State for a reason!)
One of the quaintest cities along the Delaware River is Lambertville. It has one of the most charming downtown areas with historic buildings and fun antique shopping opportunities. The restaurants and bars in Lambertville are awesome and a great place to stay is Woolverton Inn in the nearby town of Stockton.
What is great about Lambertville is that it allows locals and visitors alike to walk from New Jersey to Pennsylvania. New Hope, Pennsylvania is located on the other side of the Delaware River. It is also charming, like Lambertville and boasts a great downtown area.
Another fun fall spot in New Jersey is Happy Day Farm in Manalapan! Known for its “Instagrammable” pumpkin house, sunflower fields, pumpkin picking, corn mazes, tractor rides and food trucks. This farm should not be missed during a visit to New Jersey in the fall.
Fall Vacations on the East Coast in the Mid-Atlantic:
The Mid-Atlantic states in the USA also boast a lot of beautiful autumn locations! From the mountains of West Virginia to the Shenandoah Valley, there are reasons why this area makes for one of the leading fall vacations on the East Coast!
Shenandoah Valley, Virginia:
Home of the Blue Ridge Mountains, scenic nature, beautiful farmland and historic cities, the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia is a must-see fall destination and one of the most perfect fall vacations in the U.S.
One of my favorite east coast fall vacation ideas is wine tasting and the Shenandoah is one of the best wine-producing regions in Eastern America. I suggest visiting Crosskeys Vineyards and Bluestone Vineyard for the freshest local wine and incredible countryside and mountain views! In addition to wine, the city of Harrisonburg boasts excellent local breweries to check out!
Located two hours southwest of Washington, D.C., the Shenandoah Valley has breathtaking hiking opportunities during autumn. I recommend visiting Shenandoah National Park for some of the best fall foliage in the region, along with renowned hiking!
The top hotel to stay at in Harrisonburg, VA is Hotel Madison. It’s a modern luxury hotel located on the beautiful campus of James Madison University and is within walking distance of downtown.
Best Fall Vacations in the South:
In case you’re wondering, yes, the American South has some great fall destinations you must visit! From Asheville to Pigeon Forge, learn more about these unforgettable autumn destinations.
The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee:
The Smoky Mountains are perfect for a nature-filled east coast autumn vacation.
When looking for the best place to stay in The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, I recommend booking one of the best weekend getaways on the East Coast at Yourcation Awaits. The Yourcation Awaits house in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is cozy, scenic and overlooks the famous Dollywood amusement park.
If you’re looking for a dreamy autumn hike, you must explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which features fantastic fall foliage.
After a hike, make your way into the fun town of Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy moonshine tasting, play fun games and make countless memories. You can also take a gondola ride in Gatlinburg that overlooks the Smokies!
Asheville, North Carolina:
Lastly, another tremendous Southern fall location is the Blue Ridge Mountain city of Asheville, North Carolina! When enjoying a fall weekend in Asheville, you must explore the city’s foodie and beer scene, hike, and see the famous Biltmore Estate!
Recognized as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive along the Appalachian Mountains. It’s one of the most magical spots to enjoy fall foliage in Asheville!
In addition, a trip to Asheville is not complete without touring the Biltmore Estate, which is famous for being America’s Largest Home. It is a 250-room French Renaissance chateau that will leave you dreaming. You must also go to the winery during a visit to the Biltmore Estate!
Regarding food in Asheville, I recommend enjoying tapas at Cúrate, donuts at Vortex Donuts, beer at Wicked Weed Brewing and Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey. A great hotel to stay at is the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown, which also boasts the Montford Rooftop Bar.
Here are other great fall destinations on the East Coast:
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best fall vacations on the east coast of the United States. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
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Fall Weekend Getaways on the East Coast
Nothing is like the crisp air during the fall season, especially on the East Coast! When planning your next autumn vacation, there’s no better location for experiencing fall than on the East Coast of the USA.
In this part of the United States, you’ll discover picture-perfect views of vibrant colors, charming hotels and inns, delicious seasonal cuisine and incredible outdoor activities, especially if you plan a fall road trip!
Growing up in New Jersey, I’ve experienced beautiful falls in my own state and the Northeast. Even though you can see beautiful autumn colors around the country, the most stunning fall foliage I’ve witnessed was during my 7-day New England road trip. Don’t worry, though; you don’t have only to visit New England to enjoy the best fall vacation spots on the East Coast!
In this article, discover the best fall vacations on the East Coast of the United States, from the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee!
Here are the best small towns in New England to visit in the fall.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy
East Coast Fall Vacation Ideas:
There is nothing better than traveling during the shoulder season. The summer crowds are gone, which allows you to enjoy all the popular spots and activities to the fullest.
Below are the best East Coast fall vacations you must experience in America! These destinations are great for vacations on the East Coast from late September through early November.
Best Fall Vacations in New England:
New England always comes to mind when I dream about the best fall vacations on the East Coast. From the charming small towns to the historic sites, there isn’t a more perfect time to visit the Northeast! Here are great New England spots to visit on the East Coast in the fall:
Portland, Maine:
Portland, Maine is one of the world’s most charming cities and is the perfect place for fall weekend getaways in the northeast in the U.S.
In Portland, you will experience incredible seafood, natural beauty and stunning coastal architecture. My favorite places to dine and drink in this charming city are Eventide Oyster Co., Gilbert’s Chowder House, The Holy Donut and Shipyard Brewing Company.
During an East Coast autumn getaway to Portland, ME, stay at Blind Tiger by Lark Hotels. It’s a 19th-Century luxurious guest house in the West End of Portland, within walking distance to downtown. The living areas are peaceful for reading; there are modern amenities to watch your favorite Halloween films, food and drinks to make comforting fall beverages and treats, a pool table for making memories with friends, spacious and uniquely decorated bedrooms to make you feel at home, an excellent breakfast to fuel you for the day and a Peloton bike to keep you in shape.
A fall trip to Portland also wouldn’t be complete without viewing the area’s historic lighthouses. I recommend seeing the Spring Point Ledge Light in South Portland and the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth!
After savoring some of the best lobster you’ll ever taste at Bite Into Maine or The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, you must stroll along Portland’s southern beaches, such as Old Orchard Beach. Next, take the scenic fall walk along the Eastern Promenade trail. At this picturesque spot, you’ll find breathtaking views of the harbor and Casco Bay, full of vibrant autumn colors.
If you’re looking for a fun adventure from Portland, head north to Acadia National Park for excellent fall hiking, crisp weather, scenic views and wonderful memories. During a trip to this National Park, visiting Bar Harbor is a must.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts:
No matter the time of the year, I’m constantly dreaming about the autumn streets of the Berkshires. If you are looking for a lovely, quaint and laid-back area to travel to for one of the best fall East Coast trips, you must visit the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts!
Overall, experiencing fall in the Berkshires is the perfect place for wellness and well-being. I recommend staying at Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa to renew and relax. You can enjoy great hiking, yoga, biking, equestrian riding and archery.
Since New England has charming inns and bed and breakfasts, I suggest booking a cozy stay at the Red Lion Inn. Located in Stockbridge, MA, the Red Lion Inn was established in the 1700s but burnt down in a fire during the 1800s and has been rebuilt and renovated a few times. This lovely inn has spacious, cozy rooms, wonderful restaurants and a heated pool.
One of the best things to do in the Berkshires in the fall is to enjoy miles of hiking trails. A great hiking option is to the highest point in Massachusetts – Mount Greylock, near North Adams. Monument Mountain, a short drive from Stockbridge, is also a scenic hike during autumn.
In addition, the Berkshires also have great dining opportunities and numerous cocktail bars and breweries to check out, like District Kitchen & Lounge in Pittsfield. There is no better way to embrace fall vibes than visiting Balderdash Cellars near Pittsfield, too!
Boston, Massachusetts:
Another one of the best cities to visit during a fall vacation on the East Coast is Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is one of the top fall getaways on the East Coast because it is filled with fun bars, beautiful parks, charming neighborhoods and great eateries.
Boston is a popular destination during the fall months, but there are great things to do for all ages!
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is one of the best places to stay during a fall trip. It’s a stylish luxury hotel with comfortable and spacious rooms with harbor views. It also has a few restaurants, including Lifted, at the rooftop pool and the Sporting Club to enjoy Game Day.
If you’re looking for more places to get a drink or a delicious bite, Boston has many trendy speakeasies, like Drink, and iconic restaurants, like Pauli’s. I also love grabbing a drink at Fairmont Copley Plaza and enjoying brick oven pizza at State Street Provisions. Don’t forget to enjoy some great beer at Harpoon Brewery!
The lovely Beacon Hill neighborhood is one of the best places for a fall stroll in Boston, Massachusetts. This area of Boston is one of the most desirable places to live as the houses are gorgeous and the sidewalks are elegantly paved with bricks.
Other wonderful spots to enjoy fall foliage in Boston are the Boston Common, Boston Public Garden and the Harvard University campus in Cambridge. For fall sports lovers, become completely emerged into Boston culture at a New England Patriots game.
Salem, Massachusetts:
For those looking to get into the Halloween spirit this fall, you must add Salem, Massachusetts to your East Coast vacation bucket list!
Salem is famous for the 1692 Salem Witch Trials and was the filming location for the 1993 film Hocus Pocus. During a stay at this fun Halloween city, you must book The Merchant by Lark Hotels, located in the downtown area, or Harbor Light Inn in the charming town of Marblehead.
Overall, October is a great time to be in Salem! The best places to eat and drink in the city that contribute to its fall fun are Gulu-Gulu Café for breakfast, which has excellent decorations; Bambolina for lunch, which has delicious Neapolitan pizza and Ledger Restaurant for dinner, located in an old bank. You must also enjoy a refreshing craft beer, cider or cocktail at Notch Brewery, Far from the Tree cidery and The Flying Saucer.
One of the best things to do in Salem during a fall vacation on the East Coast is to learn about the witches at the Salem Witch Museum, The Witch House or on a walking tour. You must also visit the House of the Seven Gables, the 17th-Century mansion home to Nathaniel Hawthorne, writer of “The Scarlett Letter”.
A perfect way to spend a beautiful early October day in Salem is also by seeing the Hocus Pocus filming locations such as The Ropes Mansion (Allison’s House), the residential home of Max and Dani’s house, Old Town Hall (where the Halloween party took place), Pioneer Village in Forest River Park, Phillips Elementary School on Salem Common and Old Burial Hill in Marblehead.
You must also stroll around the city and admire the spooky decorations, do a ghost tour, participate in a Salem Haunted Happenings event and stop in one of the many shops like Wynott’s Wands, Wicked Good Books, Haus Witch, The Covens Cottage and ASCEND Get Lifted.
White Mountains, New Hampshire:
New Hampshire’s White Mountains is one of the best places to visit in the fall to view foliage on the east coast.
The White Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, full of bright colors and breathtaking views. Some hiking highlights include seeing Franconia Notch State Park’s waterfalls, lakes and rivers. Artist Bluff is also an easy 1.5-mile hike with fall foliage and scenic mountain views.
After hiking, ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and view nature from above. You also can’t pass up visiting Crawford Notch State Park to enjoy its nature, wildlife and camping opportunities!
Additionally, the White Mountains are one of the best fall vacation destinations on the East Coast for dining and drinks. There are a lot of epic breweries in this area, but some great spots for food are Covered Bridge Farm Table and Polly’s Pancake Parlor.
One of the best fall resorts on the East Coast is the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods. It features comforting rooms, spectacular views of the highest peak in New Hampshire and local wildlife and cozy fire pits for the cooler weather.
Newport, Rhode Island:
In addition to being a summer destination, Newport, Rhode Island is one of the most exciting fall getaways on the east coast. It is also noted as one of the most romantic spots in America, making it a fantastic East Coast vacation for couples!
The best place to stay during a fall trip to Newport is the Hammetts Hotel, located in the heart of the city, on the wharf. It boasts modern rooms with lovely views, great restaurants and bars and is within walking distance of the shops and activities of Newport.
Full of poetic coastal neighborhoods and scenic views with fall foliage, nature lovers will adore exploring Newport during the autumn months. The main reason why Newport makes for one of the best fall vacations on the East Coast is because it has the Cliff Walk! The Newport Cliff Walk is a gorgeous trail along the coastline where you can hike, fish, surf or relax on the beach.
Newport is also home to the most glamorous mansions on the East Coast! Bellevue Avenue has lavish and jaw-dropping Gilded Age “cottages” to tour, such as The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House.
Additionally, Newport, Rhode Island has a lot of great restaurants to enjoy, such as The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, The Red Parrot and Pasta Beach. It also boasts outstanding wineries like Greenvale Vineyards!
Woodstock & Stowe, Vermont:
Vermont is one of the best places to visit in the fall. It’s a great fall vacation on the East Coast because of its foliage, charming villages and the beautiful Green Mountains! In Vermont, you must do a mini road trip to visit Woodstock and Stowe.
During a trip to Woodstock and Stowe, you cannot miss visiting or staying at the Woodstock Inn, which gorgeous mums and other fall blooms surround. It’s one of the most beautiful fall resorts on the East Coast. You can also attend a wine or cooking class at this magnificent property and enjoy a drink by one of the cozy fireplaces. For a relaxing experience, you can book a service at the Inn’s spa.
Downtown Woodstock, Vermont is also the perfect location to experience all the fall vibes. There are cute cafés, boutique shops and historic buildings to keep you entertained! Woodstock is famous for its unique covered bridges and the iconic Sleepy Hollow Farm.
A couple hours north of Woodstock is Stowe. At this stunning location, you can get a taste of fall at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, which has freshly baked apple cider donuts at their onsite bakery, a cidery to taste local ciders as well as a country store and lunch spot to enjoy some goodies. Not too far from Cold Hollow Cider Mill is the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory!
If you’re looking for an epic bird’s eye view of Vermont’s fall colors, you can ride Stowe’s Gondola Skyride, or if you’d rather stay closer to the ground, Smuggler’s Notch is a beautiful, wooded area with hiking trails.
East Coast Fall Vacations in the Tri-State Area:
Another beautiful part of the country that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life coloring book is the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. The Tri-State area consists of New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.
Finger Lakes, New York:
One of my favorite fall vacations on the East Coast is the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York. It is one of the best fall weekend getaways, especially if you are 21 or older because it boasts some of the country’s most renowned wineries and vineyards!
Overall, there are a total of 11 lakes in the Finger Lakes wine region – Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco. The lake areas I recommend exploring are Seneca, Cayuga and Skaneateles.
A fall trip to the Finger Lakes must include staying at a cozy inn or bed and breakfast. Two great choices are the Inns of Aurora and The Bond 1835! For those staying at Inns of Aurora, two great wineries to visit are Long Point Winery and Bright Leaf Vineyard. A great restaurant to enjoy is Fargo Bar & Grill in Aurora.
In addition to wine, the Finger Lakes also has a lot of breathtaking hiking and nature trails! An epic spot to visit in this area is Watkins Glen. The geology behind Watkins Glen goes back to the Pleistocene era when the area was covered by ice. The movement of glaciers from the Laurentide and Wisconsin ice sheets shaped the Finger Lakes region.
Catskills, New York:
Are you looking for a relaxing and peaceful fall destination? The Catskills of New York are the perfect New York City getaway to renew and unwind.
The Catskills are among the best fall weekend getaways on the East Coast because they boast some of the most incredible foliage in the Tri-State area. During a trip to the Catskills, I recommend staying at a cabin through Getaway housing for a nature escape.
When you stay at a Getaway House in New York, you can enjoy a fall glamping retreat with plenty of hiking trails and endless outdoor activities. Some of the most memorable hiking trails are Kaaterskill Falls, Overlook Mountain Trail and one of the Catskill’s 35 peaks!
Also, the Catskills boasts some great wineries and breweries such as Hudson-Chatham Winery and Rip Van Winkle Brewing.
Hudson Valley, New York:
The Hudson Valley is a beautiful region located in Southern New York State. This area is full of great fall adventures, which makes it one of the top fall vacations on the East Coast and weekend getaways from New Jersey.
One of the best activities to do in the Hudson Valley during the fall is to go for a hike! You must hike at Harriman State Park, Bear Mountain State Park, Mount Beacon Park, Breakneck Ridge and around Mohonk Mountain House for incredible views.
This underrated location, around an hour outside of New York City, is also known for its local wineries! Some of the best Hudson Valley wineries and cideries to visit are Warwick Valley Winery, Pennings Orchard and Cidery, Angry Orchard, Benmarl Winery and Brotherhood Winery.
Another reason the Hudson Valley is a great fall destination is because there are plenty of apple orchards to pick local produce. There are also a lot of farms with great pumpkin picking and hayrides!
During a fall escape to the Hudson Valley, you must attend the annual Oktoberfest at Krucker’s in Pomona and the Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park! Overall, the Hudson Valley is one of the best and most memorable fall weekend getaways on the East Coast.
The best hotel in the Hudson Valley is Hotel Nyack in Nyack, New York. This trendy chic hotel was once a warehouse transformed into a place for creative souls and business travelers alike. Hotel Nyack has loft-style guest rooms, a pool, a bar and a restaurant called FARM at Nyack, which offers delicious seafood, pasta and steaks.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania:
The Pocono Mountains, better known as the Poconos, are among the best getaways to add to your East Coast fall vacation bucket list! The exciting outdoor activities here are endless and even more incredible during autumn.
The activities at Pocono Manor Resort are fantastic! You can enjoy archery, horseback riding, golf and more! For hikers, the Pocono Mountains are famous for the Appalachian Trail. Additionally, Bushkill Falls is a scenic hike for you to visit in Eastern Pennsylvania!
The best accommodation in the Poconos during an autumn trip is the Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, Pennsylvania. This all-inclusive luxury resort has impressive spa packages, fire pits to enjoy a fall bonfire, great restaurants and wonderful activities.
Lambertville and Manalapan, New Jersey:
New Jersey is one of the prettiest places to road trip during September and October. In addition to fun cities like Hoboken and Jersey City, along with the Jersey Shore beaches, New Jersey is also recognized for its stunning farms and gardens. (New Jersey is called the Garden State for a reason!)
One of the quaintest cities along the Delaware River is Lambertville. It has one of the most charming downtown areas with historic buildings and fun antique shopping opportunities. The restaurants and bars in Lambertville are awesome and a great place to stay is Woolverton Inn in the nearby town of Stockton.
What is great about Lambertville is that it allows locals and visitors alike to walk from New Jersey to Pennsylvania. New Hope, Pennsylvania is located on the other side of the Delaware River. It is also charming, like Lambertville and boasts a great downtown area.
Another fun fall spot in New Jersey is Happy Day Farm in Manalapan! Known for its “Instagrammable” pumpkin house, sunflower fields, pumpkin picking, corn mazes, tractor rides and food trucks. This farm should not be missed during a visit to New Jersey in the fall.
Fall Vacations on the East Coast in the Mid-Atlantic:
The Mid-Atlantic states in the USA also boast a lot of beautiful autumn locations! From the mountains of West Virginia to the Shenandoah Valley, there are reasons why this area makes for one of the leading fall vacations on the East Coast!
Shenandoah Valley, Virginia:
Home of the Blue Ridge Mountains, scenic nature, beautiful farmland and historic cities, the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia is a must-see fall destination and one of the most perfect fall vacations in the U.S.
One of my favorite east coast fall vacation ideas is wine tasting and the Shenandoah is one of the best wine-producing regions in Eastern America. I suggest visiting Crosskeys Vineyards and Bluestone Vineyard for the freshest local wine and incredible countryside and mountain views! In addition to wine, the city of Harrisonburg boasts excellent local breweries to check out!
Located two hours southwest of Washington, D.C., the Shenandoah Valley has breathtaking hiking opportunities during autumn. I recommend visiting Shenandoah National Park for some of the best fall foliage in the region, along with renowned hiking!
The top hotel to stay at in Harrisonburg, VA is Hotel Madison. It’s a modern luxury hotel located on the beautiful campus of James Madison University and is within walking distance of downtown.
Best Fall Vacations in the South:
In case you’re wondering, yes, the American South has some great fall destinations you must visit! From Asheville to Pigeon Forge, learn more about these unforgettable autumn destinations.
The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee:
The Smoky Mountains are perfect for a nature-filled east coast autumn vacation.
When looking for the best place to stay in The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, I recommend booking one of the best weekend getaways on the East Coast at Yourcation Awaits. The Yourcation Awaits house in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is cozy, scenic and overlooks the famous Dollywood amusement park.
If you’re looking for a dreamy autumn hike, you must explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which features fantastic fall foliage.
After a hike, make your way into the fun town of Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy moonshine tasting, play fun games and make countless memories. You can also take a gondola ride in Gatlinburg that overlooks the Smokies!
Asheville, North Carolina:
Lastly, another tremendous Southern fall location is the Blue Ridge Mountain city of Asheville, North Carolina! When enjoying a fall weekend in Asheville, you must explore the city’s foodie and beer scene, hike, and see the famous Biltmore Estate!
Recognized as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive along the Appalachian Mountains. It’s one of the most magical spots to enjoy fall foliage in Asheville!
In addition, a trip to Asheville is not complete without touring the Biltmore Estate, which is famous for being America’s Largest Home. It is a 250-room French Renaissance chateau that will leave you dreaming. You must also go to the winery during a visit to the Biltmore Estate!
Regarding food in Asheville, I recommend enjoying tapas at Cúrate, donuts at Vortex Donuts, beer at Wicked Weed Brewing and Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey. A great hotel to stay at is the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown, which also boasts the Montford Rooftop Bar.
Here are other great fall destinations on the East Coast:
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best fall vacations on the east coast of the United States. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
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2 Comments
This is an awesome guide to such amazing fall destinations. Some of these trips I have taken with you and have relived them reading this blog. Brought back some great memories. I did not get to all these places but definitely will at some point. They all look like fabulous places to visit ~ such a wonderful read on these beautiful, serene vacation spots ~ love you, mom xoxo 😘
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This is an awesome guide to such amazing fall destinations. Some of these trips I have taken with you and have relived them reading this blog. Brought back some great memories. I did not get to all these places but definitely will at some point. They all look like fabulous places to visit ~ such a wonderful read on these beautiful, serene vacation spots ~ love you, mom xoxo 😘
Thank you mom! I love the fall so much! Love you too! <3