A quiet post-Labor Day calm envelops Newport after the families that crowd Easton's Beach return to the daily grind and couples arrive in town for romantic New England getaways. Just above the beach, you can walk hand-in-hand along the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk, where opulent mansions are set among mature trees turning brilliant shades. It's not uncommon to see a cruise ship in the harbor this time of year, since Newport is a popular leaf-peeping stopover en route to Nova Scotia or Quebec. Vineyards and pastures are part of the stunning coastal landscape, and you'll find plenty of farmers' markets, you-pick berry farms, and venues for wine tasting. In fall, there's hardly ever a wait for a fantastic table downtown, even in the most popular restaurants.
(Photo: Artur Staszewski via flickr/CC Attribution/Share Alike)
A glorious hush falls over the country's favorite beach towns in autumn. Crowds disappear and locals exhale. While the water's still warm and the weather's still mild, scoop up a cheap oceanfront cottage rental and enjoy the golden moments of the season. Here are 10 iconic U.S. beach towns where you can pedal along quiet boardwalks, kayak among fall colors, and score excellent post-Labor Day deals. | Jamie Moore, Smarter Travel
Charles McDonald and Nate Tice's latest mock draft has five quarterbacks off the board in the top 13, a big-time weapon for Aaron Rodgers and some steals in the second half of the first round.