SIMSBURY– Money does really grow on trees during autumn in New England.
Tourism officials say tourists spend an upwards of $3 billion each year in New England to catch a glimpse of the red, yellow and orange hues.
Millions are spent in Connecticut on places to stay and eat.
State forecasters had predicted an outstanding fall foliage season with vibrant colors.
Many people are heading to Talcott Mountain State Park to take advantage of the fall colors on Friday and through the weekend.
The radiance of the fall draws nature lovers to Talcott Mountain— with the Hueblein Tower at the top. It’s the scenic hills, vistas and leaves that draw many here.
“I live in New York now, so I came home to visit the folks, figured we’d go for a hike today,” said Marc Igdalsky of West Hartford.
The fall foliage season in Connecticut is now at it’s peak.
It’s the perfect time for Idaho resident Harold Kraniski to visit the area where he grew up.
“I wish I could taken a picture of every mile of road I’ve driven in the past week. I’ve been stopping every five minutes and taking pictures of the trees, the fields,” said Krans.
Many local hotels and other places for lodging like the Green Acres Bed & Breakfast in Simsbury are booked with people staying for foliage.
Green Acres is booked throughout the weekend.
“We have a lot people in the last week or 10 days that have just been leaf peepers,” said Jim Christopher, co-owner of Green Acres Bed & Breakfast.
Right down the road, restaurants like Abigail’s Grill in Simsbury see bigger crowds, especially during lunchtime.
“Generally leaves are great. When the leaves are good, so is business,” said John Williams, assistant manager of Abigail’s Grill.
Experts expect the colors to stay vibrant in the state until early November.
For more information on Fall foliage in Connecticut, visit the Connecticut Office of Tourism website.
