Why Visit the Northeast During the Fall?

There are so many reasons to love the Northeastern autumn. From its crisp fall air to its vibrant fall foliage, it's one of the most beautiful places in the country to spend the season. 

If you're traveling north and need some ideas of what to do in the Northeast during fall, we can help. Read on for our recommended fall Northeast activities and notable destinations.

5 Reasons to Travel to the Northeast During Fall

The Northeast is a lovely vacation spot any time of year, but it's especially captivating in autumn. Here are some reasons why visiting the Northeast during fall is a must for any traveler.

1. Fall Foliage

The Northeast is famous for its lush fall foliage. In fact, many people travel to the region every year just for "leaf-peeping." Stroll through the chill autumn air, hot beverage in hand, and photograph the leaves as they fall. For a walk that offers beautiful fall scenery and views of the Hudson River, consider the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Some parks even allow you to zip line through the countryside to get the best view of the fall colors. You could also take a road trip along Route 100 in Vermont or Coastal Route 1 in Maine. 

Wherever you go in New England and the surrounding areas, take some time to sit back and appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons. Check the fall foliage forecast to find the best times for peak colors.

2. Inventive Breweries

Ever heard of a New England IPA? This wildly popular beer style originated in Vermont and drew crowds to the region just to sample its full body and smooth, fruity flavor. Unlike with other IPAs, brewers do not pasteurize or filter New England IPAs during the brewing process. They also heavily dry-hop the beer, which creates a hazy appearance and reduces bitterness.

Of course, the Northeastern brewery scene has more to offer than just New England IPAs. Some notable breweries include:

• Narragansett Beer: A historic Rhode Island brewery in business since 1890, Narragansett Beer offers creative beers and a great environment. With unique beer collaborations such as the Autocrat Coffee Milk Stout, this establishment is a must-visit for brewery hoppers.
• The Alchemist: Taste beer history by ordering Heady Topper at The Alchemist in Stowe, Vermont. As the birthplace of the New England IPA, The Alchemist is one of those places you just need to visit if you like beer. 
• New England Brewing Co.: Consistently ranking high on craft beer enthusiasts' lists since its rebranding in 2002, New England Brewing Co. in Connecticut has steadily expanded its beer list to provide a wide variety of canned and draft brews, including the Fuzzy Baby Ducks IPA. 

Want to try them all? Plan your travels around a brewery trail to experience all the region has to offer.

3. Pick-Your-Own Orchards

New England is a prime location for pumpkin and apple picking. With hundreds of orchards spanning thousands of acres, there are plenty of options to choose from to enjoy this classic fall activity.

Here are a few orchards worth a mention:

• Mack's Apples: Part of Moose Hill Orchards, Mack's Apples is among the best-known apple orchards in the state. Spend the afternoon picking apples and strolling through the farm's 100 acres of apple trees and end the day with a sweet treat from the ice cream stand.
• Pietree Orchards: With more than 50 apple varieties to choose from, you could spend days roaming this orchard in Sweden, Maine. Stay for fresh brick-oven pizza and apple cider donuts once you've filled your baskets with delicious apples.
• Kimball Fruit Farm: Located in Pepperell, Massachusetts, Kimball Fruit Farm offers pick-your-own apples, pumpkins and more. They also sell their produce at farmers markets throughout the state.

4. Fun Fall Festivals

The Northeast celebrates autumn like nowhere else. Get a taste of local charm by checking out fall festivals such as:

• Freeport Fall Festival in Freeport, Maine
• Connecticut Garlic and Harvest Festival in Bethlehem, Connecticut
• Deerfield Fair in Deerfield, New Hampshire
• Smith's Castle Harvest Festival in Smith's Castle, Rhode Island
• Southington Apple Harvest Festival in Southington, Connecticut
• Norwich Pumpkin Festival in Norwich, New York
• The Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival in Lehighton, Pennsylvania

With such a vibrant brewery culture, it's no surprise that Oktoberfest celebrations are also common throughout the Northeast. Enjoy delicious food, innovative beers and oompah music while surrounded by the rich fall colors.

5. Rich Local Culture and History

New England is full of vibrant culture and fascinating history. If you're a history buff or an art aficionado — or both — you'll love visiting the region's old cities and browsing the exhibits. Some of the top historical and cultural spots in the Northeast include:

• Mark Twain's house: Better known as Mark Twain, Samuel Langhorne Clemens was one of the most influential American authors of the 19th century. Learn more about Twain and his work by taking a guided tour of his fully restored Connecticut home and the attached museum. The house surrounded by the brilliant fall foliage presents a beautiful backdrop for photos, so be sure to bring a camera!
• Museum of Fine Arts Boston: If it's a bit too chilly out to explore, take an afternoon to stroll through Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. View contemporary pieces and historical art from the U.S. and beyond.
• The Paul Revere House: Boston is one of the best places to visit for those interested in the Revolutionary War. Start by visiting Paul Revere's house in the city to learn all about the legendary rebel, his midnight ride and his home's fascinating history. 

5 Top Fall Destinations in the Northeast

The Northeast is home to some of the most beautiful places in the country. From historical sites to national parks, here are some of the top fall Northeast destinations that should be on your trip itinerary this fall.

1. The White Mountains

The White Mountains span nearly a quarter of the state of New Hampshire and feature the highest peak in New England. Rent a car and take a scenic drive through the mountains, stop to snap some photos in Flume Gorge or enjoy some live entertainment along the way.

There is also a variety of attractions available to visitors, such as:

• Historic railroads
• Trained bear shows
• Zip lines and rope courses
• Castle in the Clouds
• Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

If you plan to stay overnight, the region offers various lodging options, including campgrounds and cabins, hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts.

2. Providence, Rhode Island

Home to Brown University and one of the nation's quirkiest cities, Providence is a vibrant college town perfect for travelers who want to sample the local culture. 

As one of the top-ranking U.S. cities for its restaurant scene, Providence offers various breweries, international restaurants, coffee shops and more. Many eateries offer mouthwatering pumpkin dishes and drinks, perfect for getting into the autumn spirit. Whether you're only visiting for the day or you're staying for a week, you'll be well-fed. 

Of course, the town has some opportunities to get excited for Halloween as well. If you love classic horror, be sure to walk by H.P. Lovecraft's former home on Prospect Street. Lovecraft incorporated many of the city's landmarks into his work, so fans of his stories are sure to recognize some names. 

Want to do some classic fall Northeast activities? Treat yourself to some hot cider and take a walk along the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular trail to see professionally carved pumpkins and enjoy some themed music. You can also travel to Newport for corn mazes, pumpkin patches and more. 

3. Acadia National Park

Located in Bar Harbor, Maine, Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful places to spend a fall day. Located along the state's long coastline, the park spans over 47,000 acres and offers many different options for camping and hiking.

Mid-October is usually the best time to visit to enjoy the fall foliage, but you're still sure to have a great time whenever you visit. The park is open 24 hours daily with some holiday closures, and all visitors are required to purchase a park entrance pass to enter. 

Once you've finished your excursion, head into Bar Harbor for delicious food, top-tier hotels and fun souvenir shopping.

4. Salem, Massachusetts

The infamous site of the 1692 witch trials, Salem is the perfect place for history buffs and horror fans alike to get into the Halloween spirit. 

While you're there, be sure to check out Salem's Haunted Happenings, the town's annual Halloween celebration and the world's largest Halloween event. With various haunted houses, museums and attractions to choose from, you'll be able to spend days getting into the spirit and learning about the town's dark history.

If you want the full experience, take some time to read up on the witch trials before your visit. 

5. The Vermont Cheese Trail

Foodies and charcuterie board enthusiasts will love taking a trip along the Vermont Cheese Trail. Compiled by the Vermont Cheese Council, the trail will take you through Vermont to visit all the state's top cheesemakers, from small family farms to larger operations. 

Sample artisanal cheeses, watch cheese-making demonstrations and even learn some American history along the way. Some notable stops on the trail include:

• Plymouth Artisan Cheese: This historic cheese producer was started by President Calvin Coolidge's father in 1890 and is home to America's oldest cheddar, making it a great destination for history buffs and foodies alike. Learn about the cheese-making process with a self-guided tour and watch fresh cheese as it's made. 
• Billings Farm & Museum: Located just outside of Woodstock, Billings Farm & Museum provides an engaging, educational way to experience farm life. In addition to tasting delicious cheeses, you can meet the animals and learn how cheese is made.
• Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company: Sample fine artisan cheeses with a sweet treat or hot cup of coffee at this quaint Windsor cafe. It's a great way to wind down after a fall day full of exploring.

Check the Cheese Trail's official interactive map for help planning your trip.

5 Benefits of Traveling With a Private Chartered Flight

Add a little luxury to your fall vacation by traveling in comfort and style. Here's why chartering a private flight is superior to flying first-class on long journeys.

1. Convenience and Flexibility

You can schedule a private flight on demand, making it easier to avoid unexpected delays and overbooked flights. Book a flight at the right time for you and avoid the stress of navigating a busy airport terminal.

Private jets are smaller and more fuel-efficient than large commercial jets, so they require fewer stops during the journey, if any. As a result, private flights are faster and shorter than commercial airlines. With the ability to stop at multiple destinations, you can easily visit every spot on your fall destinations list with enough time to relax between flights.

2. Safety

Private airlines follow rigorous security protocols and meticulous third-party inspections, so you can rest assured knowing your flight is as smooth and secure as possible.  

With fewer touchpoints and smaller crews, flying private reduces your risk of exposure to germs and illnesses. The professionally vetted crew is able to commit to a more thorough and effective hygiene regimen to keep the jet pristine.

3. Privacy

A private jet allows you to truly relax in a more intimate, exclusive atmosphere. Rather than being surrounded by people you don't know, the only people onboard a private flight are you, your chosen traveling companions and a small crew.

When flying commercial — whether you're in first class or coach — you have to deal with cramped public restroom facilities. However, when you charter a private jet, you have access to a sanitary, private lavatory.

4. Unparalleled Comfort

Private jets offer spacious cabins and ample leg room for you and anyone you're flying with. Fully reclining swivel seats enable you to get comfortable or carry on a conversation. You're free to move about the cabin as you wish when the plane is at altitude, so you can get up to stretch your legs or lay back and take a nap whenever you please.

There's also plenty of space for your baggage, so you can safely transport any apples, pumpkins or souvenirs you picked up on your journey. No need to check them into baggage claim.

5. Luxurious Amenities

Flying first-class on commercial airlines gives you access to high-end perks, but private flying is an even more premium experience. Private jets offer various first-in-class amenities such as:

• Gourmet in-flight catering options
• Reclining seats
• Free unlimited Wi-Fi and satellite phone service
• Complimentary snacks and alcohol
• Quiet private airline terminals
• Pet-friendly flights

Additionally, you can coordinate with your private jet company ahead of time to accommodate any special needs you and your companions might have.  

Frequent flyers may also find themselves traveling with the same pilots and attendants on their journeys, which can help the crew provide a more customized flying experience. 

Fly to the Northeast This Fall With GrandView Aviation

Are you planning a trip to the Northeast this fall? We invite you to fly with us at GrandView Aviation. 

When you charter a GrandView private flight, you'll get a premium travel experience complete with luxurious amenities, exceptional in-flight service and enough seating for as many as eight passengers. We also have two premium membership programs for frequent flyers, so you can earn rewards on your journeys. 

Reach out today to request a quote. We look forward to flying with you.