Fall foliage season is big bucks for New England
Fall foliage is providing a boon for New England tourism, proving that money really does grow on trees.
The lasting mild weather means leaves are staying on trees longer in the region, and tourism officials say this year could be one of the best – both visually and financially.
The economic impact could reach upwards of $3 billion in the six states this fall.
"The weather has been excellent this year, and we’re expecting a longer season," said Megan Smith, Vermont’s commissioner for tourism and marketing.
"If we can show these colorful leaves are out, through our website or social media, then people will drive from Montreal or from Boston."
Smith said fall visits to Vermont have been growing steadily by 3-6% annually since the end of the recession.
Vermont state officials have predicted over $500 million in fall tourism spending, equivalent to about 25% of tourist spending annually.
There is a similar story in Maine said Carolann Ouelette, director of Maine’s office of tourism.
"Weather and foliage alike have been quite exceptional this year with vibrant color, cruise ship traffic helps add to the numbers, and from what we have heard, fall events have seen strong numbers across the state."
New England fall marketing campaigns have focused on leaf-peepers who they hope to keep in-state to sample other attractions during a visit such as craft beer in Vermont or Connecticut’s history.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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