Best Fall Road Trips in New England and Beyond: Weekend Getaways for Couples
As fall rolls in, life seems to pick up its pace—school routines, work commitments, and yes, pumpkin spice everything. But this season also brings a perfect opportunity for couples to slow down. To reconnect and enjoy the vibrant beauty of autumn on a cozy weekend road trip.
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From the charm of New England to the wild beauty of the Smoky Mountains, these scenic routes are perfect for a couples’ getaway. Chase fall colors, share some quiet moments, and soak in the crisp autumn air. Here are the best fall road trips in New England and beyond, tailored for couples seeking romance, adventure, and a little fall magic.
Best Fall Road Trips in New England: Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine
No fall road trip list is complete without New England—especially if you’re planning a romantic weekend for two. This region is a bucket-list destination for leaf peepers, and its small towns are tailor-made for a couple’s retreat.
Vermont’s Route 100
This is a must for any couple looking to take in the quintessential fall foliage. Known as “The Skier’s Highway,” this scenic road weaves through charming villages, with endless fiery reds and oranges surrounding you. The town of Stowe, with its cute inns and cozy spots, makes for the perfect weekend stop. Book a bed-and-breakfast, explore the countryside, and enjoy a peaceful hike together in the shadow of Mount Mansfield.
Fall Road Trips in New England Fav: New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the Kancamagus Highway offers sweeping views of the White Mountains, perfect for couples looking to get lost in nature. You’ll pass through forests that seem to burn with color. Plan to stop at Jackson. This small town feels like it was made for a romantic getaway, with its historic covered bridge and picture-perfect inns.
Make Maine A Stop to Acadia National Park
For a coastal twist on your fall road trip, head to Maine. Acadia National Park is where dramatic ocean cliffs meet the rich colors of autumn. Spend your days hiking or taking in the views at Bar Harbor. Then wrap up with a lobster dinner by the sea.
Romantic Fall Road Trips: The Berkshires, Massachusetts
If you and your partner are seeking the perfect mix of fall foliage and cultural richness, The Berkshires in Massachusetts are ideal. Plus this region offers scenic drives and a dash of sophistication for couples who want to experience both nature and the arts on their trip.
The Mohawk Trail
One of the country’s oldest scenic routes will take you through vibrant fall landscapes. As you cruise through the rolling hills, consider stopping in Lenox or Stockbridge. Additionally, these small towns are brimming with art galleries, cozy inns, and restaurants serving up local fare, perfect for a romantic evening out.
Take a leisurely hike in the October Mountain State Forest, or spend your time wandering around the Norman Rockwell Museum for some small-town charm and art. Finally, end the day with a glass of wine by the fire at a quaint bed-and-breakfast.
Couples’ Escape: The Adirondack Mountains, New York
For a weekend of grand adventure and quiet lakeside moments, the Adirondack Mountains in New York deliver. Stay in Lake Placid and enjoy views of the High Peaks as you and your partner explore trails or rent a kayak for a peaceful morning on the lake. The town is charming and full of cozy spots to wind down after a day spent outdoors. Drive the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway for breathtaking views that stretch across the six million acres of the Adirondacks.
For something quieter, head to Saranac Lake, where you can rent a cabin and play a scavenger hunt. Stroll through the artsy downtown or just spend the day admiring the stunning fall foliage surrounding the lake.
Beyond New England: The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina
For couples who want to go beyond New England but still crave a fall road trip, the Great Smoky Mountains offer an unforgettable backdrop for romance. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, where every twist and turn reveals panoramic views of rolling mountains cloaked in autumn colors. It’s the perfect drive for a slow weekend road trip, with plenty of scenic overlooks to stop and take it all in. You’ll feel like the world is miles away.
Stay in a cozy cabin near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where the mountain views are as endless as the fall colors. Spend your days hiking to waterfalls or enjoying each other’s company at a local mountain lodge. If you want to venture out, Clingmans Dome provides breathtaking views at the park’s highest peak, where the fall colors seem to stretch on forever.
Rocky Mountain Road Trip for Two: Colorado
For couples seeking a little more adventure, head to Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. This road trip delivers towering peaks, golden aspen trees, and a crispness in the air that’s impossible to ignore. Base yourself in Estes Park, where you can spend the day hiking among the mountains or just enjoying the town’s vibrant autumn festivals.
Take a drive up Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, where the views will leave you in awe. The sight of the golden aspens against the rugged mountains is a sight you and your partner won’t forget.
Bonus Fall Road Trips for Couples: The Catskills, New York
If you’re looking for a quick romantic road trip from the city, the Catskills in New York are perfect. They’re less crowded than the Adirondacks but still packed with charm.
Stay in a vintage cabin or a chic boutique hotel, and explore the area’s vibrant fall colors on a scenic drive along Route 28. Stop by Woodstock or Phoenicia for art galleries, live music, and great farm-to-table dining—ideal for couples who want a mix of nature and culture on their weekend getaway.
Fall Road Trips in New England Are A Perfect Couples Getaway!
Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat in New England or an adventurous weekend in the mountains, these road trips provide the perfect fall escape for couples. The Best Fall Road Trips in New England are about more than just the foliage—they’re about slowing down, reconnecting, and making memories together in some of the most scenic locations in the country.
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