News & Posts — fall

Unsure of what to do with your family this fall? Take them to an orchard! New England is full of farms and apple orchards, many of which offer apple picking and other fun activities for people of all ages.

Connecticut – Lyman Orchards, Middletown, CT

This orchard has it all. From apple picking and pumpkin picking, to a farmer’s market and corn maze. There is also an apple cannon, which lets you or your kids fire apples at speeds more than 100 MPH.

Rhode Island – Jaswell’s Farm, Smithfield, RI

This family friendly orchard is great for apple picking.  While you’re there, you have to try a candy apple and the apple cider donut ice cream sandwich!

Massachusetts – Red Apple Farm, Phillipston, MA

Do you want to go apple picking? Do your kids want to pet farm animals? Do you need to relax with a local brew? Do you want to go on a hayride? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this is your place to go!

Vermont – Scott Farm, Dummerston, VT

Scott Farm grows over 130 varieties of heirloom apples. You can also pick your own peaches and pumpkins. Stop in their farm stand for their homemade ginger cider!

New Hampshire – Applecrest Farm Orchards, Hampton Falls, NH

Corn mazes, tractor rides, apple picking, and lawn games allow for a full day of fun activities! Go alone, with friends, or with family. Either way, you'll have a blast.

Maine – Rocky Ridge Orchard, Bowdoin, ME

This orchard is home to picking your own apples, delicious ice cream, deli sandwiches, and more.  To make this orchard even better, you get to browse through their antiques!

As Summer begins to wind down, it’s the perfect time to get your list of must-hike trails together.  To help you enjoy the changing leaves and crisp fall air, we’re starting you off with a great hike in each New England state…

Rhode Island – Carr’s Pond and Tarbox Pond

Loop your way around Carr’s Pond and Tarbox pond outside of Coventry, Rhode Island. This trail is great for beginners, with little elevation changes and a view of the pond for a large part of your trip.

Connecticut – Chauncey Peak

Chauncey Peak is in Giuffrida Park in Meriden, CT.  While there are multiple trails here, the Chauncey Peak 2.2-mile loop is one for the books.  It’s a moderate trail, dog-friendly, and leads you to multiple breathtaking spots that look over Bradley Hubbard Reservoir.

 

Massachusetts – Skyline Outer Reservoir Loop

Skyline Outer Reservoir Loop is in Medford, Mass, and is an 8.1-mile loop. You’re gifted with skyline views of the city that will leave you breathless!

New Hampshire – Welch-Dickey Loop Trail

The Welch-Dickey Loop Trail is near Thornton, New Hampshire and is a 4.4-mile loop. You’ll get beautiful mountain views and it’s dog-friendly!

Vermont – Lye Brook Falls

Lye Brook Falls is located near Manchester Center, Vermont.  It is a 4.4 mile out and back trail that features an amazing waterfall.

Maine – Acadia National Park

There are over 200 trails throughout Acadia National Park that can fit the needs of any hiker, from easy to difficult.  Between beach trails and mountain trails, you’ll want to stop here to get your hiking fix.

Whether or not you're ready to admit it, fair season and pumpkin spice are just around the corner. Since New England is notorious for their fall foliage and fairs, we've compiled a list of some of the best events to attend, in order of when they start.

1. Champlain Valley Fair, Essex Junction, VT – August 27 – September 5

If you’re looking to start fair season ASAP, check out Champlain Valley Fair in Vermont.  Starting August 27, enjoy 10 packed days of carnival rides, livestock events, and entertainment.  Each night, there is a tribute band or motorsport show at the grandstand, which is INCLUDED with your admission to the fair!

2. The Big E, West Springfield, MA – September 17 – October 3

The Big E is essential to this list. Our favorite part is visiting the state houses to get a taste of New England’s finest food and drink all in one location! Between the local food, craft beer, carnival rides, and family-friendly atmosphere, the Big E is a must for all fall festival lovers.

3. The Durham Fair, Durham, CT – September 23 – September 26

Monster truck rally, Military Appreciation Day, mouthwatering food… The Durham Fair has it all. With things to do for people of all ages and a dedicated kid’s event stage, this fair is sure to bring smiles to the whole family.

4. Fryeburg Fair, Fryeburg, ME – October 3 – October 10

This weeklong fair is filled with daily entertainment and a wide variety of exhibits including flowers, crafts, and Christmas trees. In addition, get a taste of Maine with local specialty food exhibits. You can even camp here!

5. The Sandwich Fair, Sandwich, NH – October 9 – October 11

The Sandwich Fair showcases what makes living in New Hampshire so great! With a healthy mix of agriculture, art, music, and food, you should definitely add this fair to your fall to-do list.

Check out our Leaf Peeping Map of New England for some of the best spots to see the glorious beauty of our region during the fall season.

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