How I’m Embracing Autumn in New England

Fall has officially arrived in New England, and every year I’m reminded why this is my favorite season. The air turns crisp, the trees explode into fiery reds and golden yellows, and everything feels just a little more magical. Whether I’m heading out on a road trip to chase peak foliage, spending a cozy weekend in Portland, or refreshing my wardrobe with new seasonal staples, fall is the time I lean into comfort, style, and a touch of indulgence.

Here’s how I’m making the most of the season this year:

1. Autumn Ambiance & Cozy Vibes

There’s nothing better than embracing the slower, cozier side of fall. For me, this means lighting a spiced candle, curling up in a cashmere throw, and sipping a warm apple cider while watching the sunset turn the sky orange behind the Boston skyline. I also love treating myself to seasonal sweets—pumpkin spice donuts, maple lattes, and apple pie are non-negotiables.

If you’re looking for the perfect fall day, my advice is to start with a scenic drive (there’s no shortage of foliage routes here in New England), stop at a local orchard or farm stand for fresh cider and donuts, and end your evening with a warm meal and a glass of red wine.

2. A Perfect Weekend Escape: Portland, Maine

One of my favorite fall getaways is a quick road trip up to Portland, Maine. It’s just a couple of hours from Boston, but it feels like a completely different world. The cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and crisp ocean air pair perfectly with the autumn foliage that surrounds the city this time of year.

Whenever I’m in Portland, I make sure to:

• Stay in a cozy boutique hotel so I can walk everywhere.
• Book a table at one of the incredible farm-to-table restaurants—many of them highlight local harvest flavors this time of year.
• Spend a slow afternoon exploring the Old Port, popping into shops and grabbing a pumpkin latte from one of the small cafés.
• Take a quick drive out to Cape Elizabeth or along the coast to soak in those picture-perfect fall views.

It’s the kind of weekend that feels both restorative and indulgent—a little coastal charm mixed with peak leaf-peeping.

3. Fall Fashion Favorites

Fall is the season I look forward to most when it comes to style. There’s just something about layering up and leaning into textures that feels so chic yet effortless. This year, I’ve been gravitating toward a few staples that always elevate my wardrobe:

• A tailored camel coat — timeless, versatile, and chic whether I’m in the city or on a fall getaway.
• Cashmere scarves and wraps — perfect for cozying up during crisp evenings, and they instantly elevate a simple outfit.
• Classic boots — from sleek Chelsea boots to equestrian-inspired riding boots, they’re a fall essential.
• Warm-toned knits — I’m loving sweaters in shades of burgundy, burnt orange, and forest green that mirror the foliage.

These pieces are not only stylish but also practical for days spent walking through cobblestone streets or heading out on a foliage drive.

4. Travel & Food Pairings

One of my favorite ways to celebrate fall is by pairing travel with local flavors. If you’ve ever explored New England in the fall, you know that food is just as much a part of the experience as the scenery. Farm-to-table dining, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce make every meal feel special.

When I plan a trip this time of year, I always look for ways to tie in the local food culture. In Maine, that might mean enjoying a bowl of clam chowder after a chilly walk by the harbor. In Vermont, it could be tasting maple syrup at a local sugar shack. Here in Massachusetts, I love picking up cranberries (a nod to my family roots) and using them in cocktails or desserts.

Traveling through New England in the fall is about indulging in all your senses: the brilliant colors of the leaves, the crisp air, the cozy textures of fall fashion, and, of course, the flavors of the harvest season.

5. Top 5 Fall Road Trips in New England

If you’re ready to hit the road, here are my favorite drives for peak foliage:

1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire — A 34-mile stretch through the White Mountains with sweeping views, waterfalls, and endless photo stops.
2. Vermont Route 100 — Known as the state’s “backbone,” this scenic route takes you past small towns, farms, and stunning mountain landscapes.
3. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts — One of America’s oldest scenic byways, winding through the Berkshires with iconic hairpin turns and overlooks.
4. Ocean Drive, Rhode Island — Combines foliage with sweeping coastal views, making Newport especially magical in the fall.
5. Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, Maine — A lesser-known gem where mountains, lakes, and fiery leaves create the ultimate autumn backdrop.

Each route offers its own mix of charm, history, and natural beauty—perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape.