‘Tis the season for cozy sweaters, mugs of hot tea and re-runs of fall coded Netflix picks like “When Harry Met Sally,” or “Gilmore Girls.” Fall is upon us. As the weather cools down, or as you crank your AC in the warmer regions of the country, the leaves in historic New England begin to take on their characteristic brilliant fall colors. 

New England has long been one of the most beloved spots in the country for leaf-peeping. The foliage is expected to turn early this year, with Boston colors coming in mid- to late October. 

For Keri Baugh, a New Englander and the writer behind the Bon Voyage with Kids travel website, driving through this East Coast region is an annual tradition. These are the areas she recommends hitting for the best possible leaf-peeping experience. 

Woodstock, Vermont 

Though not the site of the famous Woodstock music festival (that honor goes to New York), this region of Vermont is unparalleled in fall color. 

“We love to visit Woodstock for shopping, hiking, apple picking and farm activities,” says Baugh. “Vermonters are very serious about high-quality ingredients, and you can enjoy delicious meals – especially pumpkin pancakes with Vermont maple syrup.”

Still dormant until the first snow, many Vermont ski resorts host fall festivals around this time of year. The Sugarbush Oktoberfest party features German beer and food, live music, a stein-holding competition, axe throwing, keg tosses, and many more activities.

Lenox, Massachusetts

The Berkshires, a mountainous region in Western Massachusetts, was Edith Wharton’s and Norman Rockwell’s historical vacation spot. It’s also a perfect locale for enjoying fall colors and small-town charm.

“The colors of the trees and mountains are just spectacular, and there are great resorts families can use as a home base to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and taking in the colors,” says Baugh. 

Lenox is a central area to set up camp in. From there you can easily tour the historic homes in the area, visit art galleries and museums, and try out farm-to-table restaurants.

Carroll, New Hampshire

Driving through New Hampshire to get to your destination is one of the best ways to see the full scope of the foliage. The 34-mile Kancamagus Highway is impossibly scenic during the season with all the trees lit up in rich reds and golds.

“I am a huge fan of New Hampshire for a fall foliage trip,” says Baugh. “I particularly love the Bretton Woods ski area and the Mt. Washington Omni Resort right nearby.” 

The Mount Washington Omni Resort is also a great October stop because it’s often sited as one of the most haunted hotels in New England. If you’re game for a bit of a scare, wander the halls at night and see what you can find.

Concord, Massachusetts

To pair with a visit to Boston, consider checking out Concord, Massachusetts, a charming historical town less than 20 miles from downtown Boston. If you’re flying into The Hub for your foliage trip, this is a convenient first stop.

“Lexington and Concord are great places to enjoy leaf-peeping as well as American history,” says Baugh. “Walking and biking trails run through Lexington and Concord so it is a great place to enjoy the foliage, discover history, and take in the flavors of fall.” 

Both towns are also near famous farms like Honeypot Orchid and Lookout Farms where you can apple pick, snack on cider donuts, and debut that fall flannel shirt.