Though the Hamptons is known as Hollywood’s summer playground, it serves as a local’s jungle gym each fall. Foliage, pumpkins, early sunsets and corn mazes galore, the stars don’t know what they’re about to miss out on when they pack up and move back West. But you probably don’t mind a little less traffic as you experience the Hamptons in the fall.
Related Content: Experience Montauk in the Fall
Stay
image: facebook.com/pg/thebakerhouse1650
The Baker House 1650, East Hampton
One doesn’t have to stray far for maximum comfort at this award-winning boutique hotel. It’s equipped with modern suites that house private baths, king-sized beds, mini-bars and wood-burning fireplaces. There’s also no need to worry about finding a spot for breakfast. The Baker House 1650 offers a menu of fresh fruits, homemade pastries, crepes, breads, local farm-fresh eggs, coffee and tea from 8am-11am. Phone: 631-324-4081 | Address: 181 Main St Click to stay
White Fences Inn, Water Mill
Situated between Water Mill’s chic boutiques and Southampton’s museums and beaches, this luxurious inn is perfect for some rest and relaxation. As the temperature starts to cool down, get cozy in one of the modern suites furnished with gas fireplaces and heated bathroom floors. Breakfast is just as homey. Think Nutella banana nut muffins and berry baked oatmeal. Phone: 631-500-9013 | Address: 371 Montauk Hwy Click to stay
The Mill House Inn, East Hampton
Lauded for its history, hospitality and superb location, The Mill House Inn blends the luxury of a boutique hotel with the intimacy of a small inn. Guests can make themselves at home with pet-friendly accommodations, a ‘Nack Bar that goes heavy on the curated cheese and charcuterie plates and uniquely designed rooms with stunning views of Old Hook Mill. Phone: 631-324-9766 | Address: 31 Main St Click to stay
Eat
image: facebook.com/almondrestaurant
Almond, Bridgehampton
Committed to delivering French-style cuisine shaped from local products, Almond’s menu is comfort fare at its finest. There are Korean style BBQ short ribs, spaghetti with lobster and macaroni and cheese with prosciutto. The warm vibes extend to the dining area where patrons can feast under 100-year-old tin ceilings, surrounded by classic white subway tile. Phone: 631-537-5665 | Address: 1 Ocean Rd Click to taste
Nick & Toni’s, East Hampton
Located on North Main Street, a drive to Nick & Toni’s is always scenic especially as the leaves begin to change. Known for its celebrity clientele and mosaic tiled wood-burning oven, the Italian/Mediterranean eatery is an expert on attracting an audience and keeping them satisfied. The thin crust pizza has been perhaps the most noted secret weapon. It even comes in creative brunch variations like guanciale (caramelized onion, ricotta, gorgonzola) and broccoli rabe (sweet sausage, roasted garlic, provolone, fresh mozzarella, tomato). Phone: 631-324-3550 | Address: 136 N Main St Click to taste
Rowdy Hall, East Hampton
The casual tavern in the heart of the East Hampton village exudes nothing but warmth. There’s a gas fireplace in the center of the dining room and dark wood floors and beams across the ceiling with lantern-style light sconces. The menu follows suit with French onion soup made with a rich meat broth, sweet onions and a crispy baguette with Gruyere cheese and butternut squash lasagna glazed in sundried tomato vinaigrette. Phone: 631-324-8555 | Address: 10 Main St Click to taste
Play
image: facebook.com/quoguewildliferefuge
Quogue Wildlife Refuge, Quogue
Calling all hikers! The 305-acre nature preserve has three trails (.8 miles, 1.4 miles and 3 miles) and multiple connecting paths. It all adds up to more than 7 miles of hiking in the pine barrens. Throughout the expedition, visitors will be able to spot bobcats, owls, falcons and eagles. Phone: 631-653-4771 | Address: 3 Old Country Rd Click to play
Hank’s Pumpkintown, Water Mill
Celebrate all things autumn through Oct. 31 at Hank’s. This popular Pumpkintown is filled with pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, pumpkin spice doughnuts and fresh ground pumpkin spice coffee. There’s also a corn shack with fresh-picked corn that’s roasted and seasoned with butter and spices. For more fall fun guests can take part in tractor train rides, apple picking, hayrides and corn mazes. Phone: 631-726-4667 | Address: 240 Montauk Hwy Click to play
Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Sagaponack
The 55-acre vineyard is a must-stop on the Hamptons wine trail and for good reason. Wölffer has an exquisite collection of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Merlot as well as White Cider, Rosé and Riesling. On Oct. 6, don’t miss the annual harvest party filled with grape stomping, barrel rolling, live music, wine and cider. Phone: 631-537-5106 | Address: 139 Sagg Rd Click to play