When autumn rolls around, New Hampshire transforms into one of the most breathtaking destinations in the country. If you’re dreaming of a New England escape filled with bold, beautiful color, our boutique hotel in Exeter is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be just a short drive from some of the most scenic routes, iconic hikes, and top spots for taking in fall colors in New Hampshire.
Watching the landscape shift during New Hampshire in fall is something truly special. Rolling hills and forested trails explode with rich shades of gold, orange, and crimson, creating an unforgettable backdrop for any autumn adventure. Beyond the spectacular colors you’ll see, it’s a fantastic season to browse local farmers’ markets, head to apple orchards for a quintessential fall afternoon, and enjoy delicious farm-to-table meals at restaurants like Ambrose. If you’ve never witnessed the peak season for New Hampshire fall foliage, this is the year to do it.
Located on the historic Seacoast, our elegant Exeter Hotel gives you easy access to the best of fall in New Hampshire. Whether you’re driving the Kancamagus Highway, visiting local farms, or just strolling through the vibrant Seacoast towns like Exeter, Portsmouth, and Hampton Beach, you’ll find plenty of things to do on the Seacoast this fall. After a full day out, come back to a relaxing evening with us, where comfort and hospitality are always top of mind.
Peak fall colors in New Hampshire never last long, so now’s the time to plan. Book your stay and experience the beauty of this transitional season before it slips away.
Soak in the Best Fall Colors in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Seacoast is a year-round destination, offering something special with each passing season. Summer brings sunny days at the beach, and winter is all about romantic weekends filled with good food, local art, and a rich sense of history. No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Exeter and the surrounding Seacoast. But if there’s one time to choose as the “best” time to get away to our luxurious hotel, it’s during peak fall colors in New Hampshire.
There’s something about fall that feels completely distinct. It’s a busy time of year around here, not just because of the crisp air and cozy vibes, but because the New Hampshire fall foliage draws visitors from all over. And for good reason! New Hampshire in the fall is a full-on sensory experience. The colors are bold, the views are unforgettable, and the season never lasts long enough.
If you’re hoping to catch peak New Hampshire fall colors, your best bet is to plan a visit in late September or anytime in October. The timing can vary, but even a slightly early or late trip will still give you a solid dose of that famous New Hampshire fall color. To help you make the most of it, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to enjoy the fall colors in New Hampshire, especially right here along the Seacoast.
Top Ways to See New Hampshire Fall Colors on the Seacoast
- Taking a scenic drive is one of the easiest ways to soak in a lot of color in just one day. A few favorites include the stretch from Portsmouth to New Castle on Route 1B, the road from Hampton Beach through Hampton Falls and Exeter, and, of course, the remainder of the always beautiful Coastal Byway.
- If you’re heading to Portsmouth, hop on a harbor cruise. These narrated rides give you a new perspective on the coastline, especially when the trees are glowing with fall colors in New Hampshire.
- For those who want to stretch their legs and immerse themselves in nature, fall is an ideal time to explore local trails. Check out the Stratham Hill Fire Tower for a view that’s especially photo-worthy this time of year. Pawtuckaway State Park offers scenic coastal hikes, and in Exeter, the Hillzilla Trail and Red Loop provide easy access to peaceful fall views.
- Biking is another excellent option. The Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail is a favorite, and many of the rural backroads around the Seacoast are ideal for a laid-back fall ride. We also recommend you ride the scenic New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway in Portsmouth to soak up even more of those fall colors in New Hampshire.
- If you’re all about the classic fall experience, apple picking should definitely be on your list. Farms like Vernon Family Farm in Newfields, Applecrest Farm Orchards in Hampton Falls, and Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury make for a perfect fall outing surrounded by New Hampshire foliage.
- Take a stroll through downtown Portsmouth, where cobblestone streets and historic architecture meet seasonal flavors, cozy cafes, and fun local shops. It’s a beautiful spot for a slow afternoon in the heart of the New Hampshire fall season.
- And don’t overlook the historic downtown of Exeter itself. Walk along the Swasey Parkway or wander the Exeter River Trail to catch some of the best fall colors in New Hampshire without going far. Downtown Exeter is also full of charm, with historic buildings lining the river and a walkable district filled with boutiques, galleries, and places to grab a bite.
- You’ll also want to stop by the Phillips Exeter Academy campus, especially during the peak of fall colors in New Hampshire. Its landscaped grounds and walkable trails offer plenty of picture-perfect views as the leaves turn.
- To round it out, plan a visit to one of the nearby covered bridges. These local landmarks are picturesque any time of year, but they really shine when surrounded by the brilliant reds, oranges, and golds of a true New Hampshire fall.
A Luxurious Stay at Our Exeter Boutique Hotel
There’s nothing quite like spending a crisp autumn day surrounded by the bold and beautiful fall colors in New Hampshire. But if there’s one thing that takes a New Hampshire fall getaway to the next level, it’s staying somewhere unforgettable. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Inn by the Bandstand, our top-rated Exeter Boutique Hotel. This historic property pairs timeless elegance with relaxed comfort, creating an experience that feels both refined and welcoming.
You’ll notice the charm from the moment you walk through the door, from antique furnishings and fine art to rich architectural details that nod to New England’s golden age. Our Exeter Hotel features several shared spaces to unwind, along with eight thoughtfully designed guest rooms that prioritize your comfort. You’ll find two spacious suites with king beds and twin-bed add-ons, two junior suites with plush king beds, and four queen rooms. Two of the queen rooms include kitchenettes and are located on the top floor for extra privacy. Seven of our rooms offer working fireplaces, perfect for cozy fall evenings after a day spent chasing peak foliage.
What makes a stay here even better is the kind of hospitality you won’t always find at bigger chain hotels. Our team is dedicated to making every detail count, offering full concierge service and warm, personal touches throughout your visit. The Inn by the Bandstand is proud to be a member of the Select Registry collection of boutique properties, and we’re one of the few AAA Four Diamond-rated destinations in New Hampshire.
When you stay with us, you don’t even need to leave the property for an incredible meal. Our on-site restaurant, Ambrose, offers seasonal, elevated dining that’s rooted in local flavor. If you’re planning to see the best fall colors in New Hampshire this season, make sure your accommodations are just as memorable as what you find outside your windows. From the views to the service to the atmosphere, this is the kind of fall in New Hampshire you’ll want to experience again and again. Reserve your room now and enjoy one of the most beautiful seasons the Seacoast has to offer.