Fall Adventures in Andover, MA
August 17, 2026The town of Andover, MA, like many New England towns, is gorgeous in the fall. The farms are offering up their harvests, locals head to the breweries to warm up with a pint, and the nature trails are vibrant as their leaves change colors. When the weather starts to turn cool, consider coming to Andover for a weekend getaway to celebrate the changing of the seasons.
Fall Food & Seasonal Brews
Fall is the time for food and drink, as it’s harvest time and our bodies are craving the chance to hibernate. However, stay awake and instead come try the delicious food and drink offered up in Andover.
Smolak Farms
The first step of any fall getaway is to hit the nearest farm for some delicious food and harvest-time fun. Smolak Farms is a working farm where you’ll find just that, delighting the community for over 50 years. Your mouth will be happy and your stomach satisfied when you stop by the farm stand to snack on warm apple cider donuts and other treats, as well as weekly meals-to-go.
But don’t leave just yet; stick around for some extra farm fun. Hop on a hayride for $7 and feed the animals some tasty grain. It’s a classic way to spend an autumn day.
Oak & Iron Brewing Company
Andover’s hometown brewer, Oak & Iron Brewing Company, is worth visiting any time of the year, but fall is a particularly good time to grab a brew. Step into the warm brewery and grab a seat with the locals. Chat with your new friends and sip on flavorful, handcrafted beers while snacking on hot dogs, Bavarian pretzels, and Mexican corn dip.
Shopping
Winter is coming, which means it’s time to start shopping. Skip the malls and big-box retailers and instead shop local with the stores of the North Andover Merchants Association. You’ll find incredible, unique goods and support Andover’s wonderful small businesses. Pick up gifts and gift certificates to the many local shops to give your loved ones this holiday season.
Andover Art
If the day is a bit too crisp, spend the afternoon exploring Andover’s vibrant arts and culture scene. From museums and art galleries to local libraries, there are plenty of ways to discover the fascinating and creative side of town. For those with an artistic soul, be sure to make time for the local galleries.
Addison Gallery of American Art
Art lovers should add a visit to the Addison Gallery of American Art to their itinerary. You’ll see pieces of American art from the likes of Winslow Homer, Thomas Eakins, and James McNeill Whistler. There are over 25,000 works in all media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more, spanning from the 8th century to the present. The museum is free and open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm.
New England Gallery
Want cool art and historic pieces that you can take home? Go to New England Gallery, which is known for dealing in high-end Americana decor, as well as fine art paintings, silver, jewelry, porcelain, and more. The gallery has hundreds of paintings on view in two large showrooms decorated with antique furniture and accessories. Even if you’re not quite sold on taking some art home, it’s still worth checking out.
Yes, the leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and the town of Andover is waiting for you. Start planning your fall getaway today!
