Discover the Magic of Rhode Island's Fall Foliage:

As the crisp autumn air sets in, Rhode Island transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, making it the perfect destination for a fall foliage getaway The magic of peak foliage sweeps across our beautiful state, starting in the northern regions usually around early October. As the vibrant colors make their way towards Newport, the peak arrives mid to late in the month. Plan your visit to coincide with nature's breathtaking display.

From the vibrant reds and oranges of the oak trees to the soft yellows of the birches, the Ocean State is ablaze with breathtaking beauty. Here's your guide to experiencing the best of Rhode Island's fall foliage.

Scenic Drives

One of the greatest joys of fall in Rhode Island is taking a leisurely drive along the state's picturesque back roads, surrounded by the riot of color. The Ocean State boasts several scenic byways that are particularly stunning during peak foliage season.

  • The Newport Scenic Byway (Route 138-Ocean Avenue commonly known as Ocean Drive) winds its way through historic Newport, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the fall foliage.
  • The Scituate Reservoir Scenic Drive (Route 6) takes you through the heart of Rhode Island's countryside, with the reservoir's waters reflecting the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees.
  • The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge, which connects Jamestown to Newport, offers panoramic views of Narragansett Bay and the fall foliage of Aquidneck Island.
  • South County has the perfect “Sunday drive” route from Route 1 and 1A from Westerly to Wickford

Hiking and Walking Trails

To truly immerse yourself in Rhode Island's fall splendor, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. The state is home to numerous parks and nature reserves with walking and hiking trails that showcase the best of the season's colors.

  • Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown boasts over 325 acres of woods, fields, and coastline, with seven miles of trails that wind through the fall foliage.
  • Fort Adams State Park in Newport offers stunning views of the Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, surrounded by the vibrant colors of fall.
  • Lincoln Woods is surrounded by a bounty of beautiful colors by the lake, in the trails or  as far as the eye can see
  • Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick features over 18 miles of trails that take you through the fall foliage of the park's woodlands and along the shores of Greenwich Bay.
  • Wolf Hill Forest Preserve in Smithfield It features a long, rocky, north-south ridge and is among the top 10 favorite hiking areas in Rhode Island, with eight trails to traverse, including the highly-rated World War II Memorial Loop
  • Rocky Point Park (cool for history buffs look it up) Rocky Point State Park is a photographer's paradise. The rusting metal and faded paint of the old amusement park rides create a striking contrast with the vibrant hues of the autumn leaves  in over 120 acres along the coastline
  • Acadia Management Area: Mountain Bikers and hikers enjoy exploring  the over 14,000acres  in this, Rhode Island’s largest recreational area.

Guided Foliage Tours

For a more in-depth exploration of Rhode Island's fall foliage, consider taking a guided tour. Several companies offer foliage tours that showcase the state's most stunning autumn colors.

  • Rhode Island Red Food Tours offers a Fall Foliage and Food Tour, which combines visits to local farms and restaurants with stops at scenic foliage viewpoints.
  • Viking Tours of Newport offers a Fall Foliage Trolley Tour, which takes you through historic Newport and along the scenic Ocean Drive, with a knowledgeable guide pointing out the best foliage spots.
  • Providence River Greenway Arts Organization offers a Fall Riverwalk, a self-guided walking tour along the Providence River Greenway Belt, which features public art installations amidst the fall foliage.
  • Experience Rhode Island hosts an Autumn Tour in New England (great photo ops with this tour for sure)
  • Blackstone Valley Explorer riverboat offers 45-minute narrated cruises into mid-October
  • For more tours go here

Fall Festivals and Events

Rhode Island celebrates the arrival of fall with a variety of festivals and events that showcase the season's beauty and bounty.

  • The Scituate Art Festival, held every Columbus Day weekend, features the works of over 200 artists and craftspeople, along with live music, food, and stunning views of the fall foliage.
  • The Norman Bird Sanctuary's Harvest Fair, held in early October, offers hayrides, a farmers' market, and a variety of children's activities, all set amidst the sanctuary's stunning fall colors.
  • The Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival in Newport celebrates the Ocean State's seafood heritage, with fresh seafood, live music, and fall foliage views of the marina.
  • Plan a full day at the Rogers Williams Park. Foliage colors by day and from late September to early November the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at night (get your tickets ahead of time)
  • See our full events calendar here

Insider's Tip

For the most breathtaking views of Rhode Island's fall foliage, time your visit to coincide with peak season, usually mid to late October. And be sure to pack your camera to capture the stunning beauty of the Ocean State in the fall. Consider booking your foliage tours and accommodations in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly during peak season.

Rhode Island is a nature lover's paradise in the fall, with its vibrant fall foliage, scenic drives, and outdoor activities. Whether you're a leaf peeper, a hiker, or a foodie, the Ocean State has something for everyone in the autumn season. So why not plan a fall foliage getaway to Rhode Island and experience the magic of New England in the fall?