10 Unforgettable Fall Weekend Getaways in the Northeast

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Scenic view of a rustic farmhouse surrounded by vibrant fall foliage in Stowe, VT.

Only a few days until August, which means that fall is just around the corner! In this post, I’m sharing my top 10 favorite spots for fall weekend getaways in the Northeast.

You’ll find some classic New England towns, but also some hidden gems on this list!

Maybe I’m biased, but I really think that you cannot find better fall colors than in the Northeast. Cozy little towns, beautiful red-orange leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and the smell of cinnamon in the air. Nothing beats the cozy vibes of fall up here.

From Maine through Pennsylvania, there are so many amazing places in the Northeast for a fall weekend getaway. I’ve included some of the classics on this list (hello, Vermont) and some hidden gems for locals.

You’ll find a list of must-do activities, my favorite fall treats in each town, and some inspiration for where to stay on your trip. Although the fall foliage each year can be a little unpredictable, I’ve also included a rough estimate of the best time to visit each town.

Get ready for leaf peeping, scenic drives, and pumpkin donuts at local farms. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or with the whole family, you’re sure to find some inspiration on this list for your Northeast fall weekend.

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking through these links, at no extra cost to you.

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking through these links, at no extra cost to you.

1. Stowe, Vermont

Scenic view of a rustic farmhouse surrounded by vibrant fall foliage in Stowe, VT.
Aerial view of vibrant autumn foliage surrounding buildings in Stowe, Vermont.


Stowe is the quintessential New England fall getaway. It’s a beautiful town with cute shops and restaurants nestled between maple trees. You’ll also find covered bridges, hiking trails, and cozy lodges to make your trip complete.

If you’re planning to visit Stowe in the fall, make sure you book your hotel early since they tend to book up fast – even as early as June! Check out some hotel recommendations below. There’s also a lot of cute Air B&Bs you can pick from too!

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Late September to Early October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Apple cider donuts with warm apple cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

  • Take the Gondola SkyRide for beautiful aerial views of fall foliage
  • Visit the Ben & Jerry’s factory & ice cream shop in Waterbury, VT
  • Drive through Smugglers’ Notch Pass
  • Hike Stowe Pinnacle Trail for panoramic views
  • Drive through Historic Gold Brook covered bridge
  • Sip fresh apple cider and buy fall treats at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
  • Spend Sunday mornings at the Stowe Farmers Market
  • Short on time? Take small group tour of Stowe, VT!

WHERE TO STAY IN STOWE, VERMONT

🏠 Green Mountain Inn
4.6/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
This historic inn is a cozy, charming retreat with modern amenities that’s located right along Main street in the heart of Stowe. Features a heated pool, hot tub, an outdoor terrace, firepits, and an on-site restaurant.📍See more →

🏠 Stone Hill Inn
5/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
A cozy couples-only bed & breakfast that’s perfect for a romantic fall getaway! The rooms in this top-rated inn include king beds, a jacuzzi, and a fireplace. 📍See more →

2. Woodstock, Vermont

Captivating autumn landscape featuring a classic farmhouse and barn in the rural countryside of Woodstock, Vermont.


Woodstock, VT is another picture-perfect fall getaway in the Northeast that feels like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie. It’s one of the most cozy little village towns I’ve been to in New England. You’ll find historic homes with white picket fences, covered bridges, and tons of opportunities for leaf peeping.

I found Woodstock to be a little smaller than Stowe, but I liked the shops here a little more more. I also found that the colors here were beautiful and vibrant.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Late September to Early October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Pumpkin whoopie pie at Mon Vert Café

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

  • Stroll along Central Street
  • Buy fall treats at the Woodstock Farmers’ Market (open Tuesday-Sunday)
  • Hike to the summit of Mount Tom for gorgeous fall views
  • Visit Sugarbush Farm for cheese sampling and maple syrup
  • Drive through the iconic Middle Covered Bridge
  • Wander the Billings Farm & Museum to learn about Vermont’s rural heritage
  • Explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

WHERE TO STAY IN WOODSTOCK, VERMONT

🏠 Woodstock Inn & Resort
4.5/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
A beautiful, iconic hotel located in the center of Woodstock, VT. Features a pool, spa, and cozy rooms. Even if you can’t get a room here, it’s worth a visit to check out their gorgeous gardens & landscaping!📍See more →

🏠 The Jackson
4.9/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
A cozy bed & breakfast located in the heart of Woodstock. Although you won’t find resort-style amenities here, it’s a quaint getaway with evening firepits, beautiful gardens, and even a little trout pond!📍See more →

3. Manchester, Vermont

Beautiful autumn foliage reflected in a tranquil lake with a clear blue sky in Vermont.


While Stowe and Woodstock are both beautiful, I probably love Manchester, VT the most! It’s about 4-4.5 hours drive from New York City, so it’s perfect for a quick fall weekend escape from NYC.

Manchester is not as crowded, but it still has some lovely shops and cafes that make it a relaxing fall getaway. There’s also fall foliage and many mountain hikes to choose from.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Early October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Maple latte and a waffle at The Maple Reserve Cafe

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

  • Drive the scenic Mount Equinox Skyline Drive
  • Pick up some fresh farm produce at Dutton Farmstand
  • Load up on all the maple goodies at Sugar Shack
  • Shop at the Manchester Designer Outlets
  • Relax by the waterfall at the Manchester Riverwalk
  • Hike to Lye Brook Falls or Equinox Preserve
  • Tour the Southern Vermont Arts Center

WHERE TO STAY IN MANCHESTER, VERMONT

🏠 Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester
4.7/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
Located just minutes away from the heart of Manchester village, this Hampton Inn is one of the best I’ve stayed at! It’s got free breakfast, a pool, hot tub, fitness center, and an outdoor firepit perfect for chilly nights.📍See more →

4. Lincoln, New Hampshire

A beautiful autumn scene featuring a red covered bridge surrounded by vibrant fall foliage in Lincoln, New Hampshire.


Lincoln is one of the best towns to visit in New Hampshire for fall colors. It has some amazing fall foliage with vibrant colors and it’s a quaint little town that’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

It’s located right along the famous Kancamagus Highway, which is a must-do road trip for autumn lovers! There’s also a train ride and an aerial tram if you prefer to let someone else do the driving.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Late September to Early October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Pancakes with maple butter & maple syrup at Flapjacks Pancake House

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

WHERE TO STAY IN LINCOLN, NH

🏠 Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain
4.5/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
A resort-style hotel surrounded by mountains with activities for both kids and adults. Features an onsite spa, hot tub, heated indoor + outdoor pools, wellness classes, seasonal activities, and more! 📍See more →

5. Bar Harbor, Maine

Explore the vibrant fall foliage along a peaceful wooden footpath in Bar Harbor, ME.


Take a trip up the Maine coastline to visit Bar Harbor this fall! It’s located near the famous Acadia National Park which is gorgeous during the fall months.

It’s perfect for adventure seekers who love hiking, but those looking for a relaxed vacation will also find lots to do here during the autumn season.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Early to mid October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Pumpkin or apple espresso drinks at Acadia Perk

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

WHERE TO STAY IN BAR HARBOR, ME

🏠 Bar Harbor Manor
4.7/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
Most hotels around Bar Harbor can get expensive during summer and fall. The Bar Harbor Manor is a reasonably priced hotel in a great location between Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. The rooms are spacious and there’s grab and go breakfast available as well. 📍See more →

6. Lake Placid, New York

Tranquil Mirror Lake reflecting autumn foliage and mountains in the Adirondacks.


I went to Lake Placid right at the turn of fall and it was breathtaking. I can only imagine how beautiful it is with the peak fall colors!

Although the town is named Lake Placid, the main village with shops & restaurants is located around Mirror Lake, NOT around Lake Placid. Yep, it confused me when I first went there too!

Tucked within the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a serene weekend getaway where you can find fresh mountain air, lake towns, and Winter Olympic history. This town blends natural beauty with small-town charm—and it’s especially stunning during the fall months!

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Late September to Early October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Maple soft serve ice cream at Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE PLACID, NY

🏠 Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
4.1/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
I stayed here the last time I visited Lake Placid and had a wonderful stay! Get a room with a patio or balcony that faces Mirror Lake if you’re able to. The hotel is a short walk from Main Street and features a pool, hot tub, fitness center, and an outdoor fireplace for chilly fall evenings 📍See more →

7. Lake George, New York

Steamboat with American flags docked on a serene lake with autumn-colored mountains in the background.


Lake George is a favorite summer getaway for many New Yorkers, but it’s also gorgeous (and a little quieter) in the fall! I’ve gone here twice and to be honest, I find it so much more relaxing here in the fall than in the summer.

Nestled in the southern Adirondack Mountains, it’s about 3-4 hours north of NYC and offers gorgeous colors for autumn leaf-peeping. There’s also many family-friendly activities to do here, so even kids will have a blast coming up here for the weekend!

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Early to mid October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Pumpkin spice latte at Caffe Vero

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE GEORGE, NY

🏠 Courtyard Lake George
4.5/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
This cozy cabin-style hotel is located in the heart of town and features gorgeous views of Lake George, an indoor pool, rooftop terrace, and a fitness center.📍See more →

🏠 Holiday Inn Resort Lake George
4.5/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
We stayed here during out last fall trip to Lake George, and had a great stay! It’s located on a hill, so you still get views of the lake from the hotel. It’s a resort-style Holiday Inn with an indoor + outdoor pool, hot tub, outdoor activities, a basketball court, and an on-site restaurant.📍See more →

8. New York City

Scenic autumn view of Bow Bridge and reflections in Central Park, New York City.


Although it may not be as calm or quaint as a Vermont town, NYC still has many things to do during the fall. The colors tend to peak slightly later than they do in other places on this list, so plan your trip accordingly.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Mid to Late October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Blossoming hot chocolate at Dominique Ansel Bakery is one of my favorites. There’s so many other fall treats to be had in the city!

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

  • Walk through Central Park during peak fall colors
  • Check out fall colors + Halloween decorations of the West Village brownstones
  • Attend the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (train ride up to Westchester)
  • Shop seasonal produce at Union Square Greenmarket
  • Visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery for gorgeous fall colors and spooky vibes

WHERE TO STAY IN NEW YORK CITY

🏠 Even Hotel New York – Midtown East
4.4/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
There are so many hotels in NYC to choose from! I usually recommend getting a hotel near Grand Central because it connects multiple subway lines and it’s a relatively safe area. I’ve stayed in this hotel before – it’s pretty affordable (for NYC standards!) – and offers clean rooms, dining options, and a little outdoor terrace. It’s also located pretty centrally around many attractions. 📍See more →

9. Newport, Rhode Island


Newport may be known for summer getaways, but it’s a hidden gem for the autumn season. As a bonus, it’s all less crowded here during the fall!

🌊 Click here to check out my full post on Newport and get a FREE printable itinerary →

Visit historic mansions with a backdrop of historic mansions or relax by the water while sipping on some warm apple cider. It’s perfect for couples seeking a little romantic getaway, or for solo travelers looking to get away from the hustle & bustle of the city.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Mid to Late October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Maple latte and pumpkin muffin at Empire Tea & Coffee

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

WHERE TO STAY IN NEWPORT, RI

🏠 Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina
3.7/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
My mom and I stayed at this hotel during our trip to Newport last year and had a great time. It’s located right along Bowen’s Wharf and features gorgeous harbor views. The hotel also has a really nice outdoor area with Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, and a boardwalk. 📍See more →

10. Ligonier, Pennsylvania

A vibrant autumn scene with colorful foliage lining a wet road in Long Pond, PA.


As a Pennsylvania girlie, you know I have to mention one of my favorite hidden gems in PA for fall! If you find yourself in western PA or Ohio for the fall, you have to add Ligonier to your fall bucket list.

Tucked in the Laurel Highlands, Ligonier is one of Western Pennsylvania’s quaint little towns that is beautiful during autumn. You’ll find many cute shops and many family-friendly activities to do here. It’s similar to the Poconos, but on the western end of PA.

🍂 Best Time to Visit (subject to change per season): Early to Mid October

🍎 Must-Try Fall Treat: Homemade pumpkin pie at The Pie Shoppe

🍁 Must-Do Fall Activities:

  • Visit Idlewild & SoakZone’s HALLOWBOO! for kid-friendly Halloween fun
  • Tour Fort Ligonier, a historic French & Indian War site
  • Drive the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway
  • Hike at Linn Run State Park
  • Attend the annual Ligonier Fall Craft & Vendor Show
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Seven Springs Mountain Resort

WHERE TO STAY IN LIGONIER, PA

🏠 Thistledown at Segar House
4.7/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
Get cozy and relax at this charming boutique hotel in Ligonier. It features 8 guest rooms with fireplaces.📍See more →

🏠 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Donegal
4.6/5 ⭐️ on TripAdvisor
This hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a larger hotel with free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Located about 15 minutes outside of Ligonier in a cozy cabin-style hotel with beautiful views of fall colors. 📍See more →



I hope you enjoyed this post on the best fall getaways in the Northeast! Don’t forget to start planning early so you get the best deals on hotels and activities before they sell out. Happy leaf peeping!

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