The sweat of summer is behind you, and the frost of winter is ahead.

It’s a place where holiday cheer is near mandatory from Labor Day through Christmas.

By the time fall rolls around, hot apple cider is flowing like a river across the Northeast.

Adirondack chairs looking out over vista in Vermont USA

Credit: Kevin Trimmer/Getty Images

The region covers more than 70,000 square miles and is home to more than 15 million people.

It’s also important to consider the varied weather.

Day by day and state by state, things can change in a moment.

Costumed revelers walked the city streets on Halloween in Salem, Massachusetts

JOSEPH PREZIOSO/Getty Images

Be prepared for chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and cold nights.

Pack layers, and bring gloves and a hat.

You won’t regret it.

Kancamagus Highway in Northern New Hampshire

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

That means you’re able to explore many popular spots with thinner crowds.

Another can’t-miss albeit cliche New England fall activity isapple picking.

Fall in New England is also a perfect time for a hike, thanks to the pristine weather.

Appalachian trail from Flume center, New Hampshire

Valter Pelizzaro/Getty Images

The largest pumpkin weighed in the U.S. was featured at the Deerfield Fair in 2018.

There are many more events happening throughout the region.

Odds are you’ll find at least a fair or two in the state you’re visiting.

Morning view of Quincy Market along the Freedom Trail across from the Great Hall of Faneuil Square in Boston Massachusetts USA

Pgiam/Getty Images

The prime time to admire fall foliage is toward the end of September and into early October.

As for where to go, you’re spoiled for choice.

Hotels in New England

New England’s charm certainly extends to its hotels and bed-and-breakfasts.

Macoun apples on trees in orchard in New Hampshire town

RebeccaBloomPhoto/Getty Images

The boutique hotel sits in a restored home originally built in 1813.

The Wanderer, Kennebunk, Maine

Looking for something a little different?

AtThe Wanderer, you might claim your own Instagram-worthy cottage.

Sunset from Blue Hill Overlook on Cadillac Mountain in Autumn, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, Maine

Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon/Getty Images

Each is a self-sufficient studio with its own bathroom and wet bar.

The decor is described as “coastal-cool,” clearly taking inspiration from its proximity to Kennebunk Beach.

The Wanderer is open only until the end of October, so ensure to time your trip correctly.

Giant Pumpkin Competition At The Topsfield Fair

Essdras M Suarez/The Boston Globe/Getty Images

Plus, it’s set in 2,600 acres of pristine Vermont landscapes to explore.

Best New England Inns

Courtesy of the Wauwinet

Exterior of Pickering House Inn in the fall

Courtesy of Pickering House Inn

Interior of The Wauwinet library

Courtesy of The Wauwinet

Exterior of Von Trapp Family Lodge

John Greim/Getty Images