In the Fall, Eastern Massachusetts is the place to be. You can stroll along the coastlines to find the leaves turning bright colors. There is a crispness to the air and a glimmer to nature that is just unbeatable – that’s why every year visitors come from near and far to witness the beautiful scenes of the Massachusetts Coast. If you want to see for yourself, we have found and gathered the most beautiful places to gaze at the turning foliage from Cape Cod, to Boston and everywhere in between:

Cape Cod:

Cape Cod National Seashore: This pristine coastal area stretches along the eastern edge of Cape Cod and offers stunning views of colorful foliage against the backdrop of sandy beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking and biking trails, such as the Cape Cod Rail Trail, provide great opportunities for leaf-peeping.

Nickerson State Park: Located in Brewster, Nickerson State Park features numerous ponds and woodlands surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. The park offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities, making it a perfect spot for a fall getaway.

Scenic Drives: Cape Cod has several scenic drives that take you through picturesque landscapes adorned with fall colors. Route 6A, also known as the Old King’s Highway, runs through historic towns like Sandwich, Barnstable, and Brewster, offering charming views of autumn foliage.

Bourne Farm: This historic farm in Falmouth offers a beautiful setting for leaf-peeping. You can explore the walking trails around the farm and take in the fall colors.

Shining Sea Bikeway: This scenic bike trail in Falmouth takes you through salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and woodlands, all of which display stunning fall foliage.

South Coast:

Horseneck Beach State Reservation (Westport): This beachfront state park is not only a great place for summer fun but also for fall foliage viewing. There are walking trails and a campground where you can experience the changing leaves along the coast.

Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary (Dartmouth): Part of the Mass Audubon network, Allens Pond   offers hiking trails that wind through woodlands, fields, and along the coast. It’s a fantastic spot to observe fall foliage and birdwatching.

New Bedford Waterfront: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the New Bedford waterfront, which offers lovely views of the harbor and its adjacent parks. Fall foliage can often be seen in the city’s parks and gardens.

Rhode Island:

Arcadia Management Area: Located in Exeter, Rhode Island, this large state forest has hiking trails that lead you through dense woodlands, perfect for leaf-peeping.

Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor: Stretching into Rhode Island from Massachusetts, this corridor offers opportunities for scenic drives and walks along the Blackstone River with lovely fall views.

Roger Williams Park: This large park in Providence features a variety of trees and a picturesque lake, making it a great place to enjoy fall foliage in the city.

South Shore:

World’s End Reservation (Hingham): This Trustees of Reservations property offers coastal trails with views of the Boston skyline and autumnal foliage. The landscape is particularly beautiful in the fall.

Webb Memorial State Park (Weymouth): This park offers a peaceful setting along the Back River. Stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy the foliage reflecting on the water.
North River Wildlife Sanctuary (Marshfield): Part of the Mass Audubon network, this sanctuary features walking trails that wind through a diverse range of habitats. You can enjoy both the fall foliage and the chance to spot wildlife.

Plymouth’s Historic Sites: While exploring Plymouth’s historic sites, such as Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II, take a walk along the picturesque waterfront and enjoy views of colorful trees along the harbor.

Boston:

Freedom Trail: This 2.5-mile historic trail takes you through 16 significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Old North Church, and the USS Constitution. It’s a great way to learn about Boston’s history while enjoying a leisurely walk.

Boston Common and Public Garden: These adjacent parks in the heart of the city offer peaceful paths, beautiful gardens, and the famous Swan Boats. It’s a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

Charles River Esplanade: Stroll along the banks of the Charles River on the Esplanade, which features tree-lined paths, picturesque views of the river, and plenty of benches for relaxation.

 

As with any fall foliage excursion, it’s important to time your visit appropriately, usually from late September to mid-October, to catch the peak of the autumn colors. Want to have a lifestyle that is more permanent? Our agents are community experts – if you want to live near the beautiful nature of Eastern MA, they are there to help you find the perfect home to fit your lifestyle.

Thinking of a more short term stay? Book a Fall Vacation Rental near the best foliage spots using robertpaulvacations.com.