20 Quaint New England Inns Perfect for Watching the Leaves Change

Set on 58 woodland acres in the town of Washington, this Relais & Châteaux property promises splendid leafage. Adding to the allure are seasonal menus and a slew of recreational opportunities, from fly-fishing to hiking at the nearby Steep Rock Reserve. (You also may just recognize this abode from season ten of The Real Housewives of New York.)

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Beyond the postcard-worthy mountain panoramas, it’s the amenities that earn Kimpton Taconic its autumnal accolades. Walking sticks and hiking survival kits encourage guests to trek through the harvest hues. Afterwards, warm up with a hot toddy or choose from the vast assortment of Vermont craft beers.

Weekapaug Inn is an idyllic weekend getaway. The contrast between the golden leaves and blue waters of Quonochontaug Pond is striking. Plus, there are character-filled accommodations and outdoor activities like paddleboard tours and nature walks led by naturalist Mark Bullinger.

Perched on Shepard Hill, looking out over Squam Lake, The Manor on Golden Pond is everything you could ask for come fall. The tree-dotted landscape bursts with vibrant colors, while in-room fireplaces beckon couples to get cozy. Warm cookies sweeten the deal.

Lincoln Inn is a sensorial feast that brings the smells, tastes and sights of Vermont to life. Spend your days hitting the trails and marveling at the magnificent views. At night, feast on gourmet-fusion fare before retiring to your sleeping quarters upstairs.

Housed in a Gilded Age mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, The Chanler is the only hotel on Newport’s famous cliff walk. Complimentary bikes make it convenient for guests to gaze at the changing leaves. Afterwards, soothe your weary muscles with an aromatherapy bath.

Established in 1773, this Berkshires landmark—made famous by James Taylor and Norman Rockwell—has been delighting travelers for centuries. Every October, the trees turn from green to gold as the aromas of apple cider and pumpkin pie fill the air.

Seeking serenity and gorgeous scenery? A 15-minute ferry ride across the Casco Bay from Portland lies the Chebeague Island Inn. All 21 rooms are without televisions or phones—inspiring guests to unplug and explore, rather than sit around streaming Netflix.

Twin Farms is the all-inclusive to beat all others. Shades of red, orange and yellow make fall prime time to visit. Guests can indulge in picnics anywhere on the 300-acre estate, partake in outdoor painting classes and stay in charming cabins.

Don’t let the name fool you, Christmas Farm Inn is a fantastic fall escape. (It’s pretty wonderful in the winter too.) Among the most popular seasonal pastimes are road trippin’ on Kancamagus Scenic Byway and hiking in White Mountain National Forest.

Situated on the northern edge of Sebago Lake, surrounded by 135 acres of pristine woods, Migis Lodge offers seclusion and superb leaf-peeping perspectives. If that’s not enough, there’s also individual cottages, cookouts and plenty of family-friendly activities.

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This 300-year-old inn is known for its blend of colonial charm and contemporary comfort. It also offers one of the best foliage experiences in the state of Massachusetts. Plus, it puts you close to historic sites such as the Lexington Battle Green, Walden Pond and Monument Square.

Tucked away in the majestic White Mountains, the Cranmore Inn is a dream for foliage fans. There’s even a special fall package that includes daily breakfast, house-made baked goods and concierge services. Think: referrals to local landmarks like Whitaker Woods and reservations at the Conway Scenic Railroad.

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People often associate Nantucket with summer, which is totally true. Although, when fall rolls in, it brings crisp breezes and rich swathes of color that turn this island into a Thomas Moran painting come to life. And The Wauwinet is the perfect place to sip in all this seasonal splendor.

Poised on the banks of the Pawcatuck River, Margin Street Inn resides in the town of Westerly, near Watch Hill (where Taylor Swift has a home). Proximity to T-Swizzle aside, the property flaunts seven acres of manicured grounds, tasteful rooms and a dock.

The historic Mellen E. Bolster House is now home to The Francis, a 15-key boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Portland. Visitors can stroll over to the sprawling Deering Oaks Park or opt for a leisurely drive along the linden tree-lined Baxter Boulevard.

Located in a quiet corner of northeast Connecticut, The Inn at Woodstock Hill is peaceful and pictorial. Begin your day with complimentary continental breakfast. Then it’s off to Mashamoquet Brook State Park. In the evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner before heading off to bed in your antique-furnished room.

Changing leaves, fireside lectures, arboriculture walks, goat yoga—autumn is epic at this 127-acre pastoral playground. Did you know that Mount Hope Farm has a tradition of hospitality that dates back to the Pauquunaukit Wampanoag? George Washington has even stayed here.

When the weather cools down and the summer tourists disperse, Provincetown becomes blissfully uncrowded. Guests at this five-star respite can take advantage of seasonal pursuits such as whale watching and visiting local cranberry farms. Don’t miss a chance to catch sunset from Bay Tower.

While there’s no bad time for a weekend jaunt to The Groton Inn, fall is particularly picturesque. The vibe is homey, warm and welcoming. And from the front porch to the fireplace-clad courtyard, you’ll find plenty of spots to soak in the bucolic surroundings.