Every fall, the Northeast turns into a postcard with leaves of fiery reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows. Or at least, that’s the dream. I planned a 9-day road trip through five states—New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts—timed to catch peak foliage. But Mother Nature was feeling her summer era, and I rolled through mostly green landscapes. Still, the trip delivered: small towns, prestigious universities, bookshops, historic homes, and coastal views. If you’re planning your own autumn adventure (and have slightly better timing), read on for the full itinerary.