The Small Town in Rhode Island That Comes Alive in the Fall Season

Autumn in New England is simply magical, boasting the most breathtaking fall foliage in the country. As we welcome the most colorful season of the year, we start building a bucket list that will keep us busy all autumn. When you’re deciding what to do and where to go this fall, add a trip to the small town of Middletown, Rhode Island, an idyllic destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

If fall means spending time outdoors, marveling at the colorful trees, and savoring the sound of the leaves crunching beneath your feet, you’ll quickly discover Middletown is the place to be. Slip on a sweater and a pair of comfy shoes because the small Rhode Island town is brimming with delightful outdoor destinations that take on a magical aura when painted in fall’s colors. Start your visit at Norman Bird Sanctuary.

An idyllic spot for leaf peeping, the sanctuary offers seven miles of hiking trails, including wheelchair-accessible paths for everyone to enjoy the scenery. Admire the fall foliage and get a glimpse of local wildlife. There is an admission fee to use the trails, unless you’re a member of the sanctuary.

Plan a visit to the nature reserve during its annual Harvest Fair, a fall favorite that Norman Bird Sanctuary has hosted for over five decades. The two-day festival, set for the first weekend of October, features family-friendly activities, food, and friendly competitions.

For more outdoor fun, explore Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, where you can follow one of the three trails that promise plenty of scenic beauty year-round. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages this refuge, and it has a visitor center in addition to its 2.5 miles of trails.

You should also add a stop at Sweet Berry Farm, where you can pick pumpkins from late September through October. Grab a bite at the on-site café, get some ice cream or gelato, and stock up on fresh produce at the market.

Middletown is also known for its eclectic selection of shops and restaurants. Whether you’re craving classic seafood dishes or old-fashioned comfort food, you’ll find a restaurant that fits the bill in Middletown.

Have you been to the small town of Middletown, Rhode Island during the fall? What did you think? Learn more about this small coastal town on the official website of Middletown, Rhode Island.

A day in town is sure to leave you relaxed, but take it to the next level with a visit to Island Wellness Center, which has a salt cave in Middletown, Rhode Island. If a day trip to Middletown simply isn’t enough to experience all it has to offer, how about staying for a night or two? Book a charming vacation rental like this charming cottage close to the beach or Easton View Retreat with views of Easton Pond.

Plan your own trip to Middletown, Rhode Island, with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.