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2. Providence, Rhode Island
It’s not surprising to see a Rhode Island destination on this list, but it is unexpected that it’s not one of the state’s famous seaside towns.
Providence is an especially perfect leaf-peeping destination for any budding arborists. The city’s 435-acre Roger Williams Park was designed in 1872 by landscape architect Horace Cleveland “to create natural vistas punctuated by notable trees at every turn,” according to the Providence Parks Department. (Be sure to download this tree map if you’re planning a visit.)
“One iconic tree is worth the trip alone: The American Sycamore, with its beautiful yellow leaves and huge spreading limbs, [which] dominates the entrance to the historic Betsey Williams Cottage,” they share. The 100-foot tree dates back to 1860 and is considered the most famous tree in Rhode Island.
“Other notable trees include the Scarlet Oak, which lives up to its namesake with deep red leaves, the Weeping Beech with golden bronze hues, Crabapple Grove, which features an assortment of amber tones, the Gingko with fan-shaped gold leaves, the Purple Beech with copper leaves, the Sweetgum with star-shaped orange and purple leaves, and the Yellowwood with autumn seed pods contrasted with yellow leaves,” the Parks Department continues.
And don’t miss Civil War Veterans Grove, where 27 trees planted in a star pattern turn a vibrant orange color.
Just a short drive away in Bristol, Rhode Island, you can also visit Blithewold Manor, a 19th-century estate set on 33 acres on Narragansett Bay. In addition to fall foliage, you’ll see a magnificent display of late-blooming flowers.
