Connecticut in the fall is a magical time of year. As the weather cools and the leaves change, the state transforms into a picturesque landscape filled with vibrant colors and seasonal festivities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast looking to take in the brilliant foliage, a family searching for fun-filled pumpkin patches, or a Halloween lover craving spooky thrills, Connecticut has something for everyone.

The beauty of autumn here is in the stunning outdoor scenes and various activities that celebrate the season. From apple picking to haunted hayrides, there are endless ways to make the most of this time of year in the Nutmeg State. Get ready to explore the charm of Connecticut in the fall with these 41 unforgettable activities.

Take A Scenic Drive Along The Merritt Parkway

Experience fall foliage at its finest with a drive along the Merritt Parkway. Known for its tree-lined roads, this scenic route is stunning in autumn as the leaves burst into shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Visit The Connecticut River Valley

The Connecticut River Valley is famous for its breathtaking views during fall. Take a boat cruise or hike along the river to enjoy this picturesque area’s vibrant foliage.

Hike The Appalachian Trail

For outdoor lovers, hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut is a must-do fall activity. With cooler temperatures and colorful leaves, it’s an ideal time to explore the trail.

Explore Litchfield Hills

Litchfield Hills offers some of the state’s most beautiful fall landscapes. Spend a day exploring quaint villages, apple orchards, and scenic overlooks that capture the essence of autumn.

Attend The New Haven Fall Festival

The New Haven Fall Festival is a seasonal event featuring live music, local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the fall season in the city.

Take A Foliage Train Ride

Hop aboard a scenic train ride with the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat. This historic train journey takes you through some of Connecticut’s most picturesque fall foliage areas, offering unbeatable views.

Go Apple Picking At Lyman Orchards

Apple picking at Lyman Orchards is a family-friendly and classic fall tradition. Stroll through rows of apple trees, fill a basket with fresh, juicy apples, and enjoy the stunning fall scenery.

Visit A Local Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin picking is a must during the fall season. Many farms in Connecticut offer pumpkin patches where you can choose the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating.

Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride

Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective on Connecticut’s fall foliage. Floating high above the treetops, you’ll get a bird ‘s-eye view of the state’s vibrant autumn colors.

Explore Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls State Park is home to one of the state’s most scenic waterfalls, which looks even more beautiful, surrounded by fall foliage. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic or a short hike.

Attend The Durham Fair

The Durham Fair is Connecticut’s largest agricultural fair and a beloved fall tradition. It features carnival rides, live music, farm animals, and local food vendors, making it a fun outing for the whole family.

Wander Through A Corn Maze

Get lost in a corn maze at one of Connecticut’s many farms. These mazes are a fun challenge for kids and adults and a quintessential fall activity.

Go On A Haunted Hayride

For some spooky fall fun, hop on a haunted hayride. Many farms in Connecticut offer these thrilling rides through dark woods, complete with costumed actors and special effects.

Visit Gillette Castle State Park

With its unique architecture and scenic location along the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle is even more magical in the fall. The surrounding trees are ablaze with color, making it an excellent spot for photos.

Enjoy A Fall Wine Tasting

Connecticut is home to several wineries that offer seasonal wine tastings. Many vineyards are located in scenic areas, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon of sipping wine.

Attend The Pumpkintown USA Festival

Pumpkintown USA in East Hampton is a whimsical fall festival where you can walk through a village of life-sized pumpkin-headed people. It’s an excellent activity for families with young children.

Explore The Housatonic River Valley

The Housatonic River Valley is a fantastic spot for fall foliage viewing. Drive along the river or stop for a hike to enjoy the crisp air and changing leaves.

Visit Lake Waramaug

Lake Waramaug is one of Connecticut’s most scenic lakes, especially in the fall. Kayak or canoe the lake to enjoy peaceful views of the colorful shoreline.

Go Leaf Peeping In Sleeping Giant State Park

Named for its resemblance to a giant lying on its back, Sleeping Giant State Park is a top destination for fall hiking and foliage viewing. The park’s trails offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Visit The Connecticut Renaissance Faire

Step back in time at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire, a family-friendly event that runs through the fall. Enjoy jousting, live performances, and artisans selling handmade goods in a festive medieval atmosphere.

Pick Your Pumpkins At Rose Orchards

Rose Orchards offers a classic fall experience with its pumpkin patch, farm stand, and hayrides. After picking your pumpkin, enjoy fresh apple cider or walk through the orchard.

Visit Mystic Seaport Museum

Mystic Seaport Museum is a great fall activity for history buffs. Visitors can explore historic ships, enjoy seasonal exhibits, and stroll through the quaint coastal town of Mystic.

Attend A Fall Craft Fair

Craft fairs pop up all over Connecticut during the fall season. Visitors can browse handmade goods, from pottery to jewelry, while enjoying the festive atmosphere and local foods.

Go On A Ghost Tour In Old Wethersfield

For a spooky experience, take a ghost tour in Old Wethersfield. Learn about the town’s haunted history while walking through its historic streets.

Visit Roseland Cottage

Roseland Cottage, a Gothic Revival home in Woodstock, is open for tours in the fall. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which look especially lovely as the leaves change color.

Celebrate Halloween At Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce, an amusement park in Bristol, goes all out for Halloween with its “Haunted Graveyard” event. The park is transformed into a spooky playground with haunted houses and scare zones.

Take A Scenic Bike Ride

Biking is a great way to enjoy Connecticut’s fall foliage. The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is a famous cycling route that offers miles of scenic paths through forested areas.

Explore Weir Farm National Historic Site

Weir Farm, the home of famous American Impressionist painter J. Alden Weir, is incredibly picturesque in the fall. The historic site offers walking tours and art activities, making it a peaceful retreat.

Go On A Foliage Cruise

A foliage cruise along the Connecticut River is a relaxing way to see the changing leaves. Several companies offer fall-themed cruises with stunning views of the riverbanks.

Visit the White Memorial Conservation Center

White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield is an excellent spot for outdoor exploration in the fall. The center offers hiking trails, nature programs, and educational exhibits.

Attend The Scarecrow Festival In Chester

The Chester Scarecrow Festival is a fun family event celebrating residents’ creativity. The festival features dozens of scarecrows on display throughout the town, along with food and activities.

Go Horseback Riding Through The Foliage

Several farms and stables in Connecticut offer guided horseback rides through scenic areas. Riding through the colorful fall landscape is a peaceful and memorable experience.

Visit The Silverman’s Farm Pumpkin Patch

Silverman’s Farm is a popular fall destination for families. Pick pumpkins, go on a hayride, and visit the petting zoo for a fun day on the farm.

Attend A Fall Concert Or Theater Performance

Farm out one of Connecticut’s local theaters or music venues for a fall concert or performance. Many venues host special seasonal events, including Halloween-themed shows.

Explore The Collinsville Antiques Trail

Collinsville is home to several antique shops and art galleries, making it an excellent destination for a fall day trip. Explore the historic downtown area and pick up unique treasures.

Enjoy A Picnic At Devil’s Hopyard State Park

Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a favorite spot for picnicking and hiking. The park is lovely in the fall, with Chapman Falls surrounded by colorful foliage.

Go-Wine Tasting Along The Connecticut Wine Trail

Follow the Connecticut Wine Trail and enjoy tastings at local vineyards. The scenic drives between wineries are a bonus, offering lovely views of the changing leaves.

Attend The Haddam Neck Fair

The Haddam Neck Fair is a charming small-town fair held over Labor Day weekend. In a festive fall setting, enjoy rides, games, and livestock competitions.

Go Kayaking On The Farmington River

The Farmington River is an excellent spot for kayaking, especially in the fall when the foliage along the riverbanks is at its peak. Paddle through the calm waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Visit The Mark Twain House & Museum

The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford offers fascinating tours of the famous author’s home. Fall is an ideal time to visit, as the surrounding gardens and trees are awash with color.

Explore Dinosaur State Park

Dinosaur State Park is a unique attraction that features fossilized dinosaur tracks. The park offers walking trails through forested areas, which are particularly beautiful during the fall.