Fall Musts for the Ultimate New England Experience

There’s nothing—NOTHING—like fall in New England…1the air wraps your skin just right, everything smells better, and there is a true need for coziness we can all get behind.

There’s a quiet calm all around; a sense of serenity. The feeling of holidays around the corner… but not too close. The crunch of leaves beneath the soles of your shoes. Ok, I could really go on and on…

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s your checklist for indulging in the perfect autumn season:

A Brisk Hike

Lace up your boots and hit the trails. New England’s foliage is best admired on foot. Some of my favorite spots include the Rail Trail, Moore State Park, Leominster State Forest, and Hopkinton State Park. It’s so refreshing to hike when the temps are a bit cooler, and the eye-catching foliage… whoa, it truly cannot be topped.

Whether for carving or decorating, a trip to the pumpkin patch is a must. We love decorating the porch steps with little pumpkins and the front stoop with a couple of bigger, funky ones! Check out CMM’s awesome list for where to go.

A Chai Latte or Hot Cider

Nothing warms you up quite like these seasonal sips. Bonus points if enjoyed at a small-town café. Maybe it’s just me, but these beverages bring me a strange amount of joy. If I want the good stuff — I’m talking real ingredients, homemade syrups, etc. — I’ll go to Root and Press, Sweets and Java, Nan’s, or Carlson Orchards.

Endless artisan markets are in sight. From handmade goods to fresh produce, fall markets are a treasure trove of local finds. It’s also a great time to stock up on holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. I love giving and receiving unique local gifts. They carry so much more meaning than anything from big box stores.

Vintage & Antique Shopping

Similar but different. Hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces in New England’s charming shops and barns. I love Vintage Retriever (Holden), Crompton Collective (Worcester), Nutique (Paxton), Hunter & Gather (Princeton), and Oh My Gosh (Sterling)!

Sweater Weather

Duh. This has to make the list. Layer up! It’s finally time for cozy knits, scarves, and boots.

One solid TJMaxx sweep and you’ll leave with a few new gems. Ready to make the most of the season? Grab your flannel and start checking off the list!

Fire Pit & S’mores

A match made in autumn heaven. Right? Cozy up with the fam, layer with blankets, feel the warmth, and enjoy a tasty treat. This type of low-key gathering screams fall all the way, and I couldn’t love it more.

In all seriousness, nothing quite beats fall in New England. It breezes by, so be sure to make the most of it with loved ones by your side. What are you adding to your fall bucket list this year?