2024's Towns In Massachusetts That Come Alive In The Fall

Massachusetts, located on the northern Atlantic coastline, is the ideal geographic location to experience the autumn season. This New England state's vast, leafy forests that change into a rainbow of brilliant colors as the days get shorter are breathtaking. With many cozy small towns dotted throughout, it is no wonder why so many people from around the country are aiming to travel to this state during the changing season. It is highly recommended to come in late September through mid-October to catch the fall foliage colors at their peak. Let's explore some of the best small towns in Massachusetts to stop off at during your fall journey in 2024.

Northampton

Northampton, located in the Pioneer Valley along the Connecticut River, comes alive during the fall season. Northampton offers a blend of outdoor activities and local charm, making it an ideal town to stop at for a day or two. As the leaves change, the surrounding mountains create an inspiring backdrop for exploring the numerous hiking trails, including those in the nearby Mt. Tom State Reservation.

This town is home to Smith College, which maintains several beautiful gardens and the impressive Smith College Museum of Art. Fall events such as the Northampton Arts & Crafts Fair highlight the creativity of local artisans and provide a perfect opportunity to find unique handmade gifts.

Be sure to savor seasonal flavors at the local eateries as well, many of which prioritize farm-to-table dining in this rich rural region. Homestead is one of such restaurants in downtown Northhampton and serves up gourmet Italian and American fare.

Stockbridge

Stockbridge is a quaint town in the famed Berkshires in the far west of Massachusetts and is a perfect destination for fall enthusiasts of all kinds. Renowned for its stunning autumn scenery amongst a vast wilderness, this picturesque locale is often considered one of Massachusetts's most charming small towns, regardless of the season. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow, you can explore the foot trails of the nearby Monument Mountain Reservation, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and hills.

Other notable attractions in town include the Norman Rockwell Museum, where you can see a collection of the iconic artist's works and gain insight into his life. In October, Stockbridge also hosts various events, such as the Harvest Festival, where local vendors sell their wares and delicious food, much of it sourced from local farms, is served up.

Salem

Located just north of Boston, Salem is steeped in history and mystique. Famous for its 1692 witch trials, the town embraces its spooky past, making it a popular location for Halloween celebrations. In October, Salem hosts a month-long festival featuring haunted houses, ghost tours, and engaging experiences aimed at history buffs and thrill-seekers.

Beyond its eerie attractions, Salem is home to other locales like the Peabody Essex Museum. This museum holds an impressive collection of art and maritime history, perfect for those seeking to learn more about local history.

As the air turns crisp, Salem’s waterfront becomes an inviting place where local eateries serve delicacies from the sea and the surrounding rural countryside. Village Tavern is a mainstay near the waterfront that will warm you up on a cold fall day.

Lexington

Lexington, another town very close to Boston, is associated by most with Revolutionary War history and is also an exceptional hotspot for fall color peepers. The town's Minuteman National Historical Park is one of the best spots for autumn walks along its web of trails, where its beautiful foliage can be seen along the historic routes also taken by colonial militia. At Arlington's Great Meadows, a short drive south of Lexington, you can truly bask in the wildlands of this region. The expansive meadows and wetlands you can find here become even more beautiful as the foliage changes color.

Each October, Lexington celebrates its heritage with events commemorating the Battles of Lexington and Concord, attracting history enthusiasts eager to learn about the birthplace of American independence. This town is undoubtedly a top-tier destination for history buffs and photographers alike who also want to appreciate the beauty of Massachusetts in the fall.

Sandwich

Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod, is an enchanting fall destination that blends its longstanding history with awe-inspiring natural coastal beauty. The historic Main Street of Sandwich is home to several worthwhile attractions that are open year-round, like the Sandwich Glass Museum, which showcases the town's once-thriving glass-making industry. The historic Sandwich Village gives visitors a glimpse into early colonial life through well-preserved buildings and landmarks.

But, you're here for a fall-themed adventure. Make a point of checking out the numerous walking trails in and around the Sandwich Boardwalk, which leads to viewpoints over the beautiful Cape Cod Bay, or venture into the nearby Sandwich Town Beach. In the fall, the salt marshes and woodlands are ablaze with colors, making for picturesque hikes and peaceful moments in nature.

Newburyport

Newburyport is a classic getaway in northeastern Massachusetts. Located along the Merrimack River, Newburyport is an early colonial town with access to many great parks and natural areas. Maudslay State Park, just outside town, features a collection of trails of varying difficulties through woodlands and meadows bursting with autumn foliage in the fall months. The park’s formal gardens and historic estates also add a bit of elegance to your fall hike. Plum Island, located at the mouth of the Merrimack River, also provides another outdoor escape with its pristine beaches that are still reasonably lively, even as the temperatures begin to drop.

In the heart of the town, Market Square is a busy area filled with any amenities you need. To learn more about this quaint town and its connection to the sea, see the Custom House Maritime Museum during your walk downtown.

Massachusetts is clearly one of the best destinations in the country to experience the best that Fall has to offer. From its many cozy towns to its forestlands set upon the rugged Atlantic coastline, there is no shortage of things to do and see as the days begin to get shorter and foliage changes color this September and October. Journey out of Boston this 2024 and see another side of the Bay State in these small towns, just a few of what this northern region of the country has to offer.