Fall is one of the best times to visit Massachusetts. From family-friendly activities like apple and pumpkin picking to our iconic fall foliage, there is so much to do and see throughout the state this season.

Leaf Peep

Fall in Massachusetts means seeing some of the best foliage in the world. Check out our Fall Foliage guide for some itinerary ideas on how to get the most out of the season, including where and when you can see some pretty autumn leaves. If you’re not afraid of heights, here’s where you can see the best fall vistas from high above the trees.

Head to a Massachusetts Farm

There’s no better time to support a local business and have some family fun. At one of Massachusetts’ many farms and orchards, you can go apple picking, grab some pumpkins, try a cider, get lost in a corn maze, or all of the above!

While you’re there, you have to try an apple cider donut – one of the great fall traditions in Massachusetts. Many local farms and bakeries offer their own unique spins on this iconic tasty treat. You’ll have to try them all to figure out which one is your favorite!

If apple picking is your thing, you can’t go wrong!

Check out a fall fair

Fall in Massachusetts means it’s time for The Big E – the largest agricultural fair on the east coast. Each year millions of attendees come to West Springfield to see live music acts, try some unique food, take their chances at midway games, and to celebrate New England.

But the Big E isn’t the only fall event worth going to. Don’t miss Fall Fest in Egremont on September 23, the Belchertown Fair on September 24, Franklin’s Harvest Festival on September 30, North Easton’s annual Harvest Craft Fair on October 1, Crantoberfest in Middleboro on October 14, or Fall Fest in Newburyport on October 14.

Take a drive

Want to do all of the above? Driving along one of Massachusetts’ many scenic routes is a great way to see the state’s beauty. You may want to check out the iconic Mohawk Trail, which crisscrosses its way through North Central and Western Massachusetts and is chock-full of one-of-a-kind vistas. At the end of the Mohawk Trail you’ll find Mount Greylock, which can be seen on foot or by car.

Or you can head down the Cape and try out the Old King’s Highway, a great way to see Cape Cod’s best sights off-season. North of Boston, you can’t beat the Essex Coastal Byway, which will take you along the shoreline to see the towns of Gloucester, Rockport, and more.

Source: visitma.com

Drive Less

Fewer miles driven means fewer emissions.

1. Follow these tips to reduce the time you spend driving:
2. Walk or bike when you can.
3. Use the bike-share programs if your city or town has them.
4. Take public transit when possible.
5. Carpool with friends instead of driving alone.
6. Use ride-sharing services.
7. Plan ahead to make the most of your trips and “trip chain.” If your grocery store is near other places you need to visit, do it all at once.
8. Work from home periodically if your job allows it.

Drive Wise

The way we drive can reduce emissions from our vehicles.

Follow these tips to effectively reduce emissions, drive more safely, and save money on fuel costs all at the same time:

• Drive efficiently – go easy on the gas pedal and brakes.
• Maintain your car – get regular tune-ups, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, and use the recommended motor oil.

Choose Fuel Efficient Vehicles

When shopping for a new car, look for fuel efficient vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions. These cars can help the environment while potentially saving you money on fuel costs at the pump. Follow these tips:

1. Use EPA's Green Vehicle Guide to learn about vehicles that are more efficient and less polluting, including:

• Electric vehicles;
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles;
• Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles; and
• Cleaner burning gasoline vehicles.

2. Use the EPA's Fuel Economy and Environment Label to compare different vehicle models and find the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle that meets your needs. This information is also available on the joint DOE and EPA website fuel economy.gov.

Don’t Idle

Unnecessary idling of cars, trucks, and school buses pollutes the air, wastes fuel, and causes excess engine wear. Modern vehicles do not require “warming up” in the winter, so there is no need to turn on the engine until you are ready to drive.

Reducing idling from diesel school buses prevents children from being exposed to diesel exhaust, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and saves money on fuel. EPA's Clean School Bus Program includes information and resources that can help you reduce school bus idling in your community.

Optimize Home Deliveries

When getting home deliveries or shopping online, consider asking to have all your packages sent in one shipment and with minimal packaging. For scheduled home deliveries, try to be flexible by choosing longer time windows so delivery trucks can optimize their routes and avoid extra trips.

Use Efficient Lawn and Gardening Equipment

Gas-powered engines in lawn and garden equipment emit significant amounts of pollutants. Follow these tips to reduce the impact of your landscaping:

• Use a manual (reel) mower for small lawns.
• When shopping for mowers and garden equipment, look for new technologies such as electric and battery-powered machines that are quieter and pollute less than gas-powered ones.
• Properly maintain lawn and garden equipment - tune mowers and change the oil as needed.

If you are purchasing commercial grade landscaping machinery, a number of products are now available with advanced emissions reduction technologies including catalysts and electronic fuel injection that result in significantly less pollution.

Source: EPA.gov

Law enforcement officers, emergency responders and other roadside workers put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe — and that’s why it’s important to move over when you see them along the side of a road.

What You Need To Do

When a vehicle with flashing lights is stopped on or next to a roadway, drivers approaching the vehicle should:

• change into a lane not immediately adjacent to the vehicle, or
• slow down to a reasonable speed if you’re unable to safely make a lane change.

Move Over – It's the Law

All 50 states have "Move Over" laws to protect law enforcement officers and other first responders stopped on roadways, yet one-third of Americans are not aware of these laws. Violation of the Move Over law results in fines and in some cases jail time.

Remember, next time you see flashing lights on the side of the road or roadside workers, Move Over. It’s the Law.

Source: nhtsa.gov

Properly storing a classic car is not as simple as parking it and leaving it untouched. Preserving them requires careful planning and execution. Here are some important tips that are generally recommended by car experts for storing a classic car effectively:

Regular Visual Inspections:

Conduct visual inspections for signs of rust, leaks, and wear. If you do find rust on your vehicle and want to know how to get it off, there are many articles on the topic, like this one from Motor Trend that might help. As far as other things to look for during your regular inspections, it might help to check for loose bolts, damaged seals and any potential issues that might worsen over time.

Fluids Levels

Regularly check oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid levels. If any of these are low, you should fill them up as necessary to help prevent engine damage and overheating.

Tire Care:

Maintain proper tire pressure and inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. Rotate tires regularly to extend their lifespan. If your classic car will be idle for a long time, it may help to use jacks to lift the car up and take pressure off the tires. For more guidelines on storing a classic car, check out our classic car storage tips article.

Battery Health:

Experts say that keeping the battery terminals clean and corrosion-free is an essential step. While you can always replace a battery, sources like Batteries Plus states a corroded battery can still cause damage to other parts of the vehicle if the corrosion spreads. If your classic car will sit idle for extended periods, consider disconnecting the battery to prevent drain.

Brake Maintenance:

Regularly inspect brake pads, rotors, and brake lines. If any of these look like they're in poor condition, consider replacing them. Depending on how often you drive the vehicle, it may be a good idea to check your brake fluid as well and top it off as needed. Classic car brake service is crucial to ensure optimal stopping power and safety.

Electrical System:

Check lights, signals, and gauges for proper functionality. Faulty electrical components can lead to more extensive issues if not addressed promptly.

Fuel System:

Ensure the fuel tank and lines are clean. Consider using fuel stabilizers if the car will be stored for an extended time to prevent fuel degradation.

Drive It Regularly:

You may be tempted to simply start your classic car once or twice a month in an effort to keep it in good condition. But the thing is, classic cars love to be driven. According to Auto Art, for example, driving your classic car on short trips, about 10-15 miles each month, gets fluids going enough to help keep the engine lubricated and prevent parts from seizing.

Wax and Polish:

Protect the paint and maintain its shine by waxing and polishing your classic car regularly. This shields the finish from UV rays and environmental elements.

Interior Preservation:

Clean and condition the interior to prevent cracking, fading and other forms of deterioration. It is generally recommended that you use products specifically designed for classic cars, as the materials can be different than what's used in modern vehicles, which means it can react differently.

Source: foremost.com

Every vehicle should have an emergency supply kit in the trunk. Kits should be checked every six months, and expired items should be replaced regularly. Here's what to have in a car emergency kit:

• A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod jack
• Jumper cables
• Tool kit and/or a multipurpose utility tool
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
• Compass
• First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, nonlatex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers and instant cold compress
• Nonperishable, high-energy foods, such as unsalted nuts, dried fruits and hard candy
• Drinking water
• Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help
• Car charger for your cell phone
• Fire extinguisher
• Duct tape
• Rain poncho
• Snow brush
• Shovel
• Windshield washer fluid
• Warm clothing
• Cat litter for traction
• Blankets

It's also a good idea to keep family and emergency phone numbers, including your auto insurance provider and a towing company, in your phone.

Source: nsc.org