Artsiest foliage weekend
On Columbus Day weekend, Northampton – one of New England’s most striking cities in fall – hosts the Paradise City Arts Festival (800-511-9725, $12 adults), with nearly 300 artists and crafters selling everything from jewelry to pottery to paintings. After some shopping and a natural-foods dinner at Paul and Elizabeth’s in town (413-584-4832), check out the scene at the famous Iron Horse Music Hall (413-584-0610). The next day, stop by Smith College’s art museum (413-585-2760, $5 adults) and its Botanic Garden (413-585-2740, free).