There’s just no doubt about it: Fall in New England is made for family adventures. Crisp air, colorful leaves, and seasonal traditions give you plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy time together. Whether you’re looking for hands-on farm fun, easy hikes, or festive events, there are activities that kids and parents can enjoy side by side.

So pack some layers, bring your appetite, and get ready to make the most of autumn with experiences that balance fresh air, local flavor, and a little seasonal magic!

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

Foliage Drive — Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for one of the best leaf-peeping drives in New England, the Kancamagus Highway sure delivers. Known locally as “the Kanc,” this 34-mile stretch of Route 112 takes you through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. You’ll wind past mountain vistas, covered bridges, and dense forests that explode with reds, oranges, and golds each fall.

Besides, you don’t need a lot of time to enjoy it. Most families spend a few hours pulling off at overlooks, picnic spots, and short trails along the way. Kids will love running around at places like Sabbaday Falls, while parents can take in sweeping views at the Pemigewasset and Hancock overlooks. Pack snacks, bring your camera, and plan for a leisurely pace. Just keep in mind that traffic can get heavy on peak weekends, so be sure to go early in the morning or on a weekday if you want a quieter ride. Oh, and there are no gas stations lining the highway, so fill up before you start.

Cranberry Bog Experience — Wareham, Massachusetts

Of course, fall in New England isn’t just about the leaves. It’s also cranberry harvest season! In Wareham, Massachusetts, you can step right into the action with a cranberry bog tour. Families get to see how these bright red berries are grown, harvested, and processed. Depending on the tour, you might even put on waders and step into the flooded bog for a hands-on experience.

Kids usually love watching the berries float to the surface, and parents enjoy learning about the farming traditions that have been part of this region for generations. Many tours also include chances to taste fresh cranberries, cranberry juice, or baked treats, so it’s best to come hungry. And since the harvest happens only in the fall, timing matters. Most bog tours run from late September through October. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, and bring a camera as well. The cranberry bogs give you a fun, interactive way to connect with one of New England’s most iconic harvest traditions.

Apple Picking & Maze Fun — Shelburne Orchards, Vermont

Few fall activities are as classic as apple picking, and Shelburne Orchards makes it easy for families to enjoy the tradition. Set along the shores of Lake Champlain, this Vermont orchard offers plenty of apple varieties you can pick yourself. Kids love filling their own bags, and parents can enjoy crisp bites straight from the tree.

And after the apple picking? You’ll find extra family fun here. The orchard sets up a kid-friendly maze and offers hayrides on select days, giving you more reasons to linger. You can also stop by the farm stand for fresh cider, cider donuts, and other local treats that make the perfect end to your visit. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring, especially if your kids want to run through the maze more than once. Wear sturdy shoes, since orchards can be muddy, and bring a tote or two for your apple haul.

Forest Walk — Bluff Point State Park, Connecticut

If you want an easy way to enjoy fall colors by the water, Bluff Point State Park in Groton is a great choice. This park in Connecticut has a wide, mostly flat trail that takes you through forests bursting with autumn color and out to the Long Island Sound. It’s about three miles round-trip, which makes it doable for most families, even with younger kids.

Along the way, you’ll spot tidal wetlands, rocky shorelines, and plenty of spots to pause for a snack break or photo. The mix of forest and ocean views keeps things interesting, and kids can end the walk by exploring the beach area. Dogs on leashes are welcome too, so you can bring the whole crew. There are no food vendors in the park, so pack water and snacks before you go. Parking can fill up on sunny weekends, so arrive early if you want a spot.

Pumpkin Patch & Harvest Festival at Story Land — Glen, New Hampshire

Story Land, New Hampshire’s beloved family theme park, adds extra magic in the fall with its Pumpkin Patch and Harvest Festival weekends. The park gets decked out with pumpkins, hay bales, and colorful decorations, creating a fun seasonal twist on the rides and attractions your kids already love. Here, families can pick out pumpkins, join in fall-themed games, and enjoy live entertainment that’s tailored for younger children. Many kids show up in costume, making it feel like a gentle, family-friendly version of Halloween. Between rides, you’ll also find seasonal treats and plenty of photo ops around the park.

The festival usually runs on select weekends in late September and October, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you go. Dress in layers, since fall weather in the White Mountains can shift quickly, and plan to spend a full day to make the most of both the rides and the special fall activities.

Farm Fun & Great Food at Wolfe’s Neck Center — Freeport, Maine

At Wolfe’s Neck Center, fall is all about connecting with the farm and enjoying the season’s bounty. Families visiting Maine can meet barn animals, wander the vegetable fields, and explore trails that wind through forests and along the waterfront. It’s a hands-on way for kids to learn where food comes from while having plenty of outdoor fun.

The center also celebrates fall with events that highlight local food. You might find farm-to-table meals, seasonal tastings, or festivals featuring pumpkins, apples, and hearty harvest dishes. Parents will appreciate the focus on sustainable farming, and kids usually can’t resist the animals or wagon rides. Plan to spend at least half a day here, since there’s plenty of space to explore and relax. Wear comfy shoes for walking, and bring an appetite — food is a big part of the experience.

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Historic Halloween at Old Sturbridge Village — Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Lastly, Old Sturbridge Village brings history and Halloween together with its annual evening event. Families walk through the recreated 19th-century village lit up with pumpkins, lanterns, and bonfires. You’ll see costumed interpreters, hear spooky stories, and enjoy old-fashioned games and activities that keep kids entertained without being too scary.

There’s plenty to explore in this place, from horse-drawn wagon rides to live music and storytelling. Your kiddos can wear costumes and join in safe trick-or-treating, while you get a glimpse of how New Englanders celebrated autumn generations ago. The atmosphere feels festive and welcoming, with just the right mix of history and seasonal fun. Tickets often sell out in advance, so plan ahead and check the schedule for specific dates in October. Dress warmly, since most of the event is outdoors, and expect to spend a couple of hours wandering the grounds.

FAQs:

Q: When is the best time to see peak foliage in New England?
A: Peak foliage varies by region, but it generally starts in late September in northern areas and can last into late October further south.

Q: Do I need to book tickets for fall festivals and farm events in advance?
A: Yes, many family-friendly events and tours sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Are pets allowed at these types of fall attractions?
A: Some parks and orchards allow leashed dogs, but most festivals, farms, and historic sites do not. Always check before bringing pets.

Q: What should I pack for a family fall outing in New England?
A: Dress in layers, bring sturdy shoes, carry snacks and water, and don’t forget a camera. For farms, tote bags or baskets can be handy.

Q: How much time should I plan for a typical visit?
A: Most outings take two to four hours, but larger events or scenic drives can easily fill a half or full day.

Q: Are these activities stroller-friendly?
A: Some trails and orchards have uneven ground, so strollers with sturdy wheels work best. Festivals and historic sites may have mixed accessibility.

Q: What’s the best way to avoid crowds during fall weekends?
A: Arrive early in the morning, visit on weekdays if possible, or explore less popular sites nearby to enjoy a quieter experience.

Is fall your favorite season? Where do you like to go when the foliage starts changing its colors? Let us know in our comments section below!