You don't have to drive several hours north into Vermont or New Hampshire to take in the brilliant colors of fall. There are plenty of places right here in Connecticut where the leaves put on a spectacular display. Get ready to get your fall foliage fix. Here are some suggestions for the best autumn places to enjoy the striking scenery of fall foliage this year in the Nutmeg State.

1. Talcott Mountain State Park, Simsbury

This 574-acre Connecticut state park is the perfect place to do some leaf peeping. Climb up to Heublein Tower, a 165-foot-high lookout tower, perched atop Talcott Mountain. Take in sweeping views in all directions of the vibrant autumn display. Visit the park at Summit Ridge Dr., Simsbury, CT 06070.

2. Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam

Not only is Gillette Castle itself simply stunning with its stone architecture, this spot also provides a fantastic viewing spot for fall foliage. Take in views of the autumn hues along the Connecticut River from this gorgeous vantage point. Find Gillette Castle State Park at 67 River Rd., East Haddam, CT 06423.

3. Giuffrida Park, Meriden

With 600 acres, this public park has plenty to explore. Hike to Chauncey Peak or up Lamentation Mountain for breathtaking fall overlooks. The colorful display surrounds the peaceful reservoir creating a picture perfect scene. Find Giuffrida Park at 800 Westfield Rd., Meriden, CT 06450.

4. Lover's Leap State Park, New Milford

A short easy hike takes you straight to Lover's Leap Bridge. Spanning the Housatonic, this pedestrian lookout offers double the views. Enjoy the bright colors of autumn in the leaves and reflected on the water's surface. Visit the state park at 178 Shortwoods Rd., New Milford, CT 06776.

5. East Rock Park, New Haven

Many think you have to travel to the northern part of the state to see fall foliage at its best. However, that's not true. East Rock Park in New Haven offers a spectacular vantage point to take in the bold colors. Take the staircase hike to the top or drive, either way, you'll love the sights.

6. Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield

No climbing is required to catch the stunning views at this park. Rolling hills and sharp wooded slopes that drop into the pond will make you feel surrounded by the blazing autumn colors. It's no wonder why this spot landed on the list of best autumn places to see the leaves changing. Visit the park at 178 Shortwoods Rd.,

New Fairfield, CT 06812.

7. Dennis Hill State Park, Norfolk

This 240-acre estate becomes a fall wonderland each year. Hike to the summit for expansive views of the bright and bold foliage all around. Visit Dennis Hill State Park on Route 272, Norfolk, CT 06058.

8. Mount Tom State Park, Litchfield County

Located in several towns, Mount Tom State Park is one of the oldest in the Nutmeg State. Check out the explosion of fall foliage and its reflections around the serene pond. Afterward hike the 1-mile tower trail that rises 500 feet. Absorb the views from the overlook next to the stone tower for an autumn delight. Find the state park on Route 202, Washington Depot, CT 06794.

9. Farmington Canal Heritage Trail

Walk or bike through a colorful canopy on the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. The path spans most of the state north to south, so enjoy any section you please. You'll feel like you are journeying through a multi-color tunnel of trees. The northern section of the trail runs from the Massachusetts border to Plainville while the southern section runs from Southington to New Haven.

Where is your favorite place to take in the fall scenery? Share it with us so we can add it to this list of best autumn places to take in the changing leaves. You know the harvest season is not complete until you enjoy a hot apple cider donut. Here are eight places to find these tasty treats.