Explore Southern New England’s Serene Foliage and Quaint Towns
Autumn in Southern New England offers a picturesque blend of serene foliage and charming small towns. This region, renowned for its vibrant fall colors, invites travelers to explore its quaint attractions and natural beauty.
Chepachet, Rhode Island: A Step Back in Time
Chepachet, a village in Glocester, Rhode Island, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1639. Visitors can discover the Brown & Hopkins Country Store, established in 1809, which has evolved from a general provisions store to a delightful gift shop. Despite its modern trappings, the store features a classic penny-candy counter, although prices have risen to five pieces for a dollar.
- The Chepachet River, a tributary of the Blackstone, once powered local mills.
- Old Stone Mill Antiques & Treasures offers a variety of collectibles, including vintage items and seasonal decor.
If you visit Chepachet on October 18, the Glocester Scarecrow Festival will be vibrant along the main street, showcasing whimsical scarecrows, live music, pony rides, and a craft marketplace. The festive atmosphere lingers for weeks as the scarecrows remain on display.
Exploring Putnam, Connecticut
Continuing west, the charming town of Putnam, Connecticut, incorporated in 1855, welcomes visitors with its striking Quinebaug River dam, perfect for photography. A visit during lunchtime reveals an array of casual dining options. Nikki’s Dog House is popular for its Coney Island hot dogs, featuring a Rhode Island twist with toppings like meat sauce, mustard, and chopped onions.
Antiques enthusiasts will delight in the Antiques Marketplace, which spans 22,000 square feet and houses 350 dealer spaces. Unlike online shopping, this emporium encourages in-person browsing, showcasing a diverse collection from vintage clothing to unique collectibles.
Woodstock: The Gem of Southern New England
Just a scenic nine-mile drive from Putnam leads to Woodstock, Connecticut, known for its Colonial-era charm and stunning natural settings. At the center of this historic town lies a beautiful Congregational Church, accentuated by its brilliant white exterior and soaring spire.
- Roseland Cottage, an iconic Gothic Revival home, once belonged to philanthropist Henry C. Bowen.
- The annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival at Roseland takes place on October 18-19, featuring local artisans and guided tours of the mansion.
While in Woodstock, don’t miss Woodstock Orchards, located less than a half-mile from Roseland Cottage. This family-run farmstand offers over 20 varieties of apples, fresh apple cider, and delicious cider doughnuts, solidifying it as a perfect autumn stop.
Practical Information
| Location | Address | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Brown & Hopkins Country Store | 1179 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, RI | Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. |
| Antiques Marketplace | 109 Main St., Putnam, CT | Open Wed.-Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. |
| Nikki’s Dog House | 5 Canal St., Putnam, CT | Open Wed.-Thu., Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. |
| Roseland Cottage | 556 Route 169, Woodstock, CT | Open Thu.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. through Oct. 26 |
| Woodstock Orchards | 494 Route 169, Woodstock, CT | Store open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m. |
As the colorful leaves guide your journey through Southern New England, take time to embrace the serene foliage and explore each town’s unique character. Autumn adventures await in this enchanting corner of the country.
