East Coast Fall Destinations You Need to Add to Your List
As the summer heat fades, fall unveils its magic on the East Coast, transforming landscapes into a symphony of fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges. This season invites us to slow down and embark on journeys that blend cozy retreats with invigorating outdoor adventures. From mountain hikes amid peaking foliage to seaside strolls where the ocean meets autumn's glow, the East Coast becomes a haven for those seeking renewal and wonder. Whether you're chasing the thrill of leaf-peeping or yearning for fireside evenings with a warm cider in hand, these 10 must-see destinations capture the essence of fall's fleeting beauty.
US DESTINATIONS
Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa: Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa offers a luxurious escape with a range of accommodations from Presidential Rooms featuring lounge access and mountain views to cozy Traditional Rooms evoking New England charm. Amenities abound, including a 25,000-square-foot spa, heated indoor and outdoor pools, complimentary WiFi, and pet-friendly options for furry companions. This historic resort is ideal for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts alike, with special packages for family vacations and romantic getaways. Guests can expect an enriching atmosphere of panoramic Presidential Range views, upscale dining at spots like the elegant 1902 restaurant or the speakeasy-style Cave bar, and impeccable service that makes every stay memorable. Activities on property include zipline canopy tours, tennis, scenic gondola rides, hiking trails, and world-class golf on a Donald Ross-designed course, perfect for fall when the surrounding foliage explodes in color, offering breathtaking hikes and gondola rides through vibrant autumn landscapes.
Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection: Gardiner, New York
Set on 140 acres in New York's Hudson Valley, Wildflower Farms provides bespoke accommodations in free-standing cabins with views of the Shawangunk Ridge, complemented by amenities like the Thistle spa for nature-inspired treatments, an outdoor pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and farm-to-table dining from on-site orchards. This resort appeals to adventurers, couples, and wellness seekers looking for seasonal immersion and curated experiences. Guests can anticipate a tranquil, seasonal atmosphere that sways with nature's rhythm, fostering stillness amid wildflower meadows and woodlands. Activities include hiking miles of trails, bouquet building, honey experiences, and the Harvest Dinner Series celebrating local bounty, especially enchanting in fall with leaf-peeping excursions, antiquing, and the vibrancy of autumn foliage enhancing every trail and dinner under the canopy.
Twin Farms: Barnard, Vermont
In the serene countryside of Barnard, Vermont, Twin Farms offers 28 uniquely designed cottages and suites on 300 acres, with all-inclusive perks like gourmet meals, fine wines, and personalized services. Amenities emphasize luxury, including sumptuous breakfasts, farm-to-table dinners, and equipment for activities. Exclusively for adults, it's perfect for couples, solo travelers, or groups craving privacy and romance. Guests will feel like they're at a private estate, with tailored experiences that can be active, restful, or lavish in an eclectic, intimate atmosphere. On-property activities range from skiing on a private mountain (in season) to biking and endless customized options, while fall specifics aren't highlighted, the pristine setting lends itself to foliage hikes, scenic picnics, and cozy evenings by the fire amid Vermont's renowned autumn colors.
The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa: Hot Springs, Virginia
Tucked in Virginia's Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa is a National Historic Landmark boasting Deluxe and Premier Rooms with southern elegance, plus spacious Suites for ultimate comfort. Amenities feature a two-acre water park, a historic spa with rejuvenating treatments, eight restaurants and bars, and pet-friendly policies. It's tailored for families (with kids-eat-free deals and adventure activities), couples (romantic soaks in the Warm Springs Pools), and adventure seekers drawn to outdoor pursuits. Guests will immerse in a luxurious, historic atmosphere with southern hospitality, recently enhanced by a $170 million renovation, where presidents have vacationed for over 250 years. Expect world-class service, farm-to-table dining, and relaxation amid natural beauty. Activities include over 40 outdoor options like horseback riding, zip lining, kayaking, and championship golf—ideal in fall for scenic mountain hikes, golf amid colorful leaves, and events like winemaker dinners that celebrate the harvest season.
The Nantucket Hotel & Resort: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Located in Nantucket's historic Brant Point neighborhood, The Nantucket Hotel features luxurious rooms, suites, and dog-friendly cottages with ocean views, alongside amenities like two heated pools, a hot tub, world-class gym, yoga classes, sauna, and a seasonal kids' club. It caters to families with award-winning children's programs, couples seeking nostalgia, and pet owners for inclusive stays. Guests can expect a magical blend of 19th-century charm and modern comfort, with exceptional staff creating a "home away from home" vibe through concierge services and antique vehicle cruises. Activities include fitness classes, shuttle to beaches, and exploring downtown— in fall, the quieter season brings opportunities for biking to lighthouses, attending harvest events like clambakes or festivals, and enjoying outdoor areas with live music and food trucks, all amid Nantucket's crisp autumn air.
Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection: Meadows of Dan, Virginia
Perched on a 12,000-acre estate in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland boasts regal Lodge rooms, romantic cabins, and Tree Houses overlooking the Dan River Gorge, with amenities including the Auberge Spa, indoor pool, gym, tennis, and farm-to-table dining. It's suited for couples in search of romance, adventure seekers for outdoor thrills, and wellness enthusiasts for yoga and meditation. The atmosphere is a luxurious back-to-nature escape, serene and rejuvenating, with star-filled skies at the observatory. Activities encompass horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain climbing, golf, and stargazing, highlighted in fall by spa events like mountain bliss treatments in September, concerts, and leaf-peeping hikes through enchanting forests bursting with color.
Winvian Farm: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut
Amid the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, Winvian Farm features 18 architect-designed cottages on a 113-acre estate, with amenities like a top-ranked luxury spa, diverse dining venues from Maggie's Tavern to the main room, and event spaces for weddings or retreats. It targets couples for romantic getaways, families (with kids-stay-free offers), and groups for corporate events. Guests will enjoy an immersive, indulgent atmosphere with personalized itineraries and European hospitality in a private, scenic setting. Activities include seasonal wine tastings, painting lessons, horseback riding, and hiking at nearby conservation centers—perfect for fall with vibrant foliage enhancing trails and outdoor pursuits like apple picking or harvest-inspired spa treatments.
The Grand at Bedford Village Inn: Bedford, New Hampshire
On a 10-acre estate in Bedford, New Hampshire, The Grand at Bedford Village Inn offers 64 suites blending rustic charm with modern luxury, plus amenities like the AAA Four Diamond restaurant for regional cuisine, The Tavern for brunch, and Corks Wine Bar for tastings. It appeals to couples, families, and business travelers with versatile event spaces for weddings and corporate gatherings. The atmosphere is refined yet welcoming, with sophisticated New England style and a home-like feel through eclectic decor. While on-property activities focus on dining and events, fall brings wine dinners, cigar events, and holiday celebrations like seasonal pairings, complemented by nearby foliage drives and festivals in the area.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND DESTINATIONS
Prince Edward Island (PEI), a gem of Atlantic Canada, has captivated Americans for generations with its accessible location, just a short flight from major East Coast cities like Boston or New York and its idyllic blend of red-sand beaches, rolling farmlands, and the enchanting lore of Anne of Green Gables. Its popularity among U.S. visitors stems from the warm Island hospitality, fresh seafood bounty, and a slower pace that feels like a nostalgic escape from bustling mainland life. Fall is the perfect time to visit, as crowds dwindle post-summer, the weather cools for comfortable exploration, and the landscape ignites in stunning autumn hues, making it ideal for leaf-peeping drives and harvest celebrations. Travelers can dive into amazing activities like savoring the PEI International Shellfish Festival or Fall Flavours Food & Drink Festival, cycling the Confederation Trail amid colorful foliage, visiting lighthouses and pumpkin patches, picking apples, hiking in Prince Edward Island National Park, exploring historic sites, and enjoying scenic road trips with stops at breweries or Indigenous cultural experiences, all while indulging in lobster suppers and cozy evenings.
The Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Housed in the historic 1857 Notre Dame Convent in downtown Charlottetown, The Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites offers elegant guestrooms and suites with luxury modern amenities, blending tradition and comfort. It's designed for business and leisure travelers, including couples and families seeking a central, upscale base. Guests can expect a one-of-a-kind historic hideaway with surpassing service and a cozy, detailed atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary. While on-property activities are limited, the inn recommends nearby pursuits like golfing on PEI's courses, exploring Victoria Park for tennis, playgrounds, and waterfront walks, especially vibrant in fall with events like the Festival of Wines, Fall Flavours tastings, and seasonal outdoor adventures such as hiking or apple picking.
The Great George: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Situated in Charlottetown's National Historic District, The Great George is a 5-star heritage boutique hotel with a cluster of restored buildings offering classic rooms, deluxe suites, multi-room townhouses, and romantic hideaways. It targets discerning couples, families, and groups with its eclectic mix and genuine Island hospitality. Guests will experience award-winning service in an upscale, intimate atmosphere that honors Mi’kmaq territory and historic charm. Activities focus on custom packages, but fall shines with the Historic Great George Walking Tour in October, Flavours by the Fire tasting events featuring five-course menus and wines, and participation in the Fall Flavours Festival for culinary delights, all set against PEI's autumn backdrop of festivals and scenic explorations.
As fall paints the East Coast with vibrant colors, these destinations offer a mix of mountain retreats, coastal escapes, and historic hideaways in places like New Hampshire, Virginia, Nantucket, and Prince Edward Island. From spa getaways to outdoor adventures, each spot delivers a unique autumn experience with harvest flavors and scenic beauty.
