Connecticut fall foliage

When Does Connecticut Fall Foliage Peak in 2025?

Connecticut’s fall foliage is renowned for its vibrancy and unique timing. While Vermont and northern New Hampshire usher in autumn early, Connecticut’s colors peak later, giving travelers a longer window to experience breathtaking scenery. In 2025, the peak foliage season is expected to stretch from the second week of October through early November, with the best color in the northwest and northeast corners typically starting in mid-October.

• Northeast and Northwest Connecticut: Peak color likely during the second week of October, especially in the Litchfield Hills and northern quiet corners.
  
  
• Central Connecticut and River Valley: Falls into mid-October for beautiful drives and riverside hikes.
  
  
• Coastal Connecticut and Southwest Corner: Save these for the last week of October into early November, including Westbrook and the shoreline towns.  Gorgeous fall colors reflect off sunshine-filled marshes, bringing fall to a close.
  
  

Remember, annual weather fluctuations can push peak days forward or backward slightly, but late October is a safe bet for most of the state.

Where to See the Best Connecticut Fall Foliage

The search for Connecticut fall foliage wouldn’t be complete without exploring its scenic byways, beloved state parks, and inviting small towns.



• Litchfield Hills: Famous for stunning views and classic fall experiences, this region is dotted with conservation centers, state parks, and quaint towns like Litchfield, Kent, and New Milford. The White Memorial Conservation Center and Mount Tom State Park are must-sees for panoramic vistas and family-friendly hikes.
  
  
• Connecticut River Valley: Picture-perfect covered bridges and winding river roads showcase spectacular reflections of gold and orange. Don’t miss towns like Essex and Chester for classic Connecticut charm and strolls along the water.
  
  
• Shoreline Connecticut: From Guilford to Mystic, the coast offers quieter foliage, sweeping marsh views, and less-crowded beaches. The region’s milder temperatures ensure comfortable autumn walks.
  
  
• Kent: Known for rural scenery and the stunning Kent Falls State Park, visitors can also enjoy Macedonia State Park, charming downtown cafés, and vibrant local shops.
  
  

New Haven: Urban parks like East Rock Park offer elevated views and unexpected bursts of color, despite their city setting.

Top Connecticut Fall Foliage Drives

Connecticut’s scenic drives are some of New England’s finest, especially during peak foliage. Make these routes part of any itinerary:



• Route 8 (Litchfield to Torrington): This winding road showcases rolling hills and passes through picturesque small towns with brilliant color.
  
  
• Route 154 (Connecticut River Valley): Follow this highway for riverside beauty and access to Chester, Essex, and Gillette Castle State Park.
  
  
• I-95 (Guilford to Mystic): Even Connecticut’s interstate shows off remarkable foliage between historic towns and shoreline landmarks.  Setting your GPS to avoid highways will take you on a meandering route through shoreline towns where the water meets the foliage.
  
  

Route 169 (National Scenic Byway): Meander through colonial villages and farmlands filled with seasonal beauty.

Connecticut Fall Foliage Activities

The fall season in Connecticut isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a celebration of harvest, festivals, and outdoor fun.



• Apple and Pumpkin Picking: Farm stands and orchards abound in regions like Litchfield and New Milford. Try Bishop’s Orchards in Guilford for classic apple picking and treats.  Lyman Orchards in Middlefield has won the Top Orchard in the nation, and is a guaranteed treat for the whole family.
  
  
• Haunted Trails and Autumn Festivities: Lover’s Leap State Park in New Milford sets the scene with spooky walks and themed events.  Find the perfect Haunted Hayride at https://www.cthauntedhouses.com
  
  
• Foliage Cruises and Rail Trips: Essex offers steam train rides and riverboat tours for unique leaf-viewing perspectives, complemented by stunning views along the Connecticut River.  Bald Eagle sightings are guaranteed!
  
  

Scenic Hikes: Trails at Mount Tom State Park, Kent Falls, White Memorial, and Gillette Castle give panoramic views and photo ops.  Connecticut boasts over 142 state parks and forests, so an excellent hike is always within a 15-minute drive.

Why Stay at The Westbrook Inn for Connecticut Fall Foliage?

For those planning a Connecticut fall foliage getaway, Westbrook offers charm, convenience, and easy access to all the best sights. The Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast and The Captain Stannard invite travelers to enjoy:



• Boutique Accommodations: Cozy rooms, welcoming porches, and crackling fires ideal for autumn evenings.  Choose one of our three fireplace rooms, curl up with a good book next to the fire in our great room, or enjoy the crisp autumn air at our firepit. 
  
  
• Shoreline Access: Walk to tranquil beaches and enjoy marsh views under a canopy of changing leaves.  Birding is wonderful this time of year, and you will be enchanted by the seabirds that stay through fall.  A wonderful way to enjoy the gorgeous color is on our complimentary kayaks, navigating the gentle waterway.
  
  
• Central Location: Westbrook acts as a perfect base for day trips—whether staying along the coast or venturing north to Litchfield Hills or Essex.  Orchards, Wineries, hikes, and farms are all within 15 minutes of the Inn.
  
  

Relaxing Spaces: Return from outdoor explorations to unwind in reading nooks, sunny porches, or near the warmth of a classic fireplace.  The homemade afternoon cookies are sure to warm your soul and stomach!

2- or 3-Night Connecticut Fall Foliage Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Local Sights

• Afternoon stroll by beaches and marshes; catch sunset hues in Westbrook.
  
  
• Dinner at local Westbrook restaurants with autumn-inspired menus, including Charter Oak Tavern or Cafe Routier.
  
  
• Optional: Evening walk to charming Westbrook Green or a hike through Stewart McKinney State Park, which is a bike ride away.
  
  

Day 2: Scenic Drives & River Valley

• Farmhouse breakfast at the inn. Comforting, creative, and satisfying, breakfast is our favorite time of day.
• Morning trip to Essex and Chester for scenic drives, harbors, and covered bridges.
  
  
• Steam train and/or river cruise for unique foliage vantage points.
  
  
• Stop by Bishop’s Orchards for apple picking.
  
  
• Return for a cozy evening by the fire.
  
  

Day 3: Venture North or Local Hikes

• Optional drive to Litchfield Hills—visit Mount Tom State Park or Kent Falls for hiking and panoramic vistas.
  
  
• If staying local, consider exploring Gillette Castle or Devil's Hopyard State Park, or relaxing by the water in Old Saybrook.
  
  

Shop local or visit the Florence Griswold Art Museum in Old Lyme before departure.