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33 Best Fall Vacations in the US

Posted on Last updated: December 5, 2023

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These are the best fall vacations in the US, from fall foliage to romantic long weekend getaways. Check out these fall travel destinations!

As a breezy season marked by warm moments with our families and orange-hued landscapes, fall is one of the most magical seasons of the year!

As the trees turn into warm tints of red and orange, it is time to hit the road and relish the fall’s features.

Thinking of that, we’ve asked travel writers to name their all-time favorite fall vacations in the US. The result?

An incredible list with mesmerizing fall destinations to add to your USA bucket list !

To help you browse this article, we divided it by best places to visit in September, October, and November.

Hope you enjoy it!

Table of Contents

Best Fall Vacation Spots

These are the best fall vacations in the US in no particular order.

Best Places to Visit in September

Seattle, washington.

Seattle is good at a lot of things, including excellent food and scarf weather. Need we say more?

The city is the perfect fall vacation spot in the US! Not only that but it also is a surprisingly romantic getaway in the United States .

Not only are Seattle’s outdoor farmers’ markets packed with good finds, but the restaurants also change their menu to include local, seasonal ingredients.

Spending one day in Seattle ? Then you will want to sip pumpkin beer, catch a cabaret performance, or hang out indoors playing board games at  Cafe Mox .

If you have 3 days in Seattle or more, you can even go hiking in the colorful Japanese Garden or Washington Park Arboretum. It has a massive Instagram potential, and no filters are needed!

Besides, there are tons of hikes near Seattle that are magical during this time of the year!

Oh, and if this is your first time in the city, you might want to check out this complete guide on where to stay in Seattle –it has information for all budgets and kinds of travelers.

North Fork, Long Island, New York

The North Fork in Long Island New York is the ideal summer getaway for most living in the New York Tri-State area.

However, as the temperatures start to drop and the days become shorter, the North Fork transforms into the most popular time of year: Harvest season.

The North Fork is home to over 55 vineyards. During harvest season, which usually starts in September, there is plenty for visitors to enjoy.

For families, Harbes Family Farm hosts a fall festival that includes everything from pumpkin picking to hayrides and even a scarecrow relay race.

Also, don’t forget to try their apple cider donuts. They are a fall favorite.

If you are really looking for something unique, check out one of the many vineyards in the area—most of them host harvest events. And some will actually let you help pick grapes off the vines.

After you’re done picking grapes, you will be treated to lunch and lots of fantastic wine.

Outside of all the fun events and activities in the North Fork, getting there is half the fun. Driving through the North Fork is a great way to enjoy the fall foliage.

During late September and October, the trees put on a show when the leaves turn vibrant from yellow to orange to even red. 

It is absolutely stunning. 

When you’re done, do pop over to one of the many beaches open to the public in the off-seasons. They also are a great spot to enjoy the sunset after a fun-filled day.

For these, and other reasons, North Fork is one of the best fall vacations in the US

Click here to check accommodation in North Fork!

Taima Ramsey from  Poor In A Private Plane

Chicago, Illinois

The best time to visit Chicago is fall! Summer brings muggy heat with sweltering humidity.

On the other hand, winters bring frigid temperatures, heavy snow, and icky slush, while spring is notoriously rainy and cold.

September and October have the most delightful weather with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. 

If you visit  Chicago in the fall , you’ll be able to miss some of the crowds. Check out Chicago’s top attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain & the lakefront trail. 

You’ll still be able to take advantage of all these exciting tourist attractions in the fall, but it won’t feel so touristy. 

Chicago is a unique fall destination because it has an extraordinarily rich haunted history to explore!

Today’s northside neighborhood of Lincoln Park was built right on top of the city’s original cemetery. Each year the Chicago History Museum does ghost tours through Lincoln Park. 

Another excellent haunted place to visit in fall is Chicago’s Graceland Cemetery. This is where many famous 19th Century Chicagoans were buried. 

For visitors looking to see the leaves change, the best place to do is the Chicago Botanical Gardens. They’re an hour north of the city, but absolutely worth visiting. 

If you are willing to explore the Chicagoland suburbs, you’ll find plenty of places to go apple picking.

These farms often have corn mazes, pumpkin patches & other fun seasonal activities. Check out Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park.

Click here to check accommodation in Chicago!

Valentina from Valentina’s Destinations

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County, WI is a delight to visit in fall! It’s not only a hotspot for fall foliage but here are also plenty of things to do here in fall. 

The Cave Point County Park offers picturesque shoreline cliffs on Lake Michigan and a hiking trail connecting more extensive trails within Whitefish Dunes and State Park.

It is an ideal picnic spot with a half-mile hiking trail and one of the best  things to do in Door County .

The historic Leathem and Smith Quarry site, the Quarry County Park, offers inviting views and access to the bay. Launch your boat, enjoy a picnic, or fish off the dock!

The Koepsel’s farm market has been making homemade goodies since the 1940s.

It features the incredible collection of tasty world products and is a must-visit tourist attraction. King Island Lighthouse offers a beautiful panoramic view, which makes it all worth the steps.

The Cookies Maze is something you should visit to taste the best sample ciders made from locally grown food!

The best way to experience the beauty of the area is on a road trip. Feel of driving through is quite popular during the fall, and the Door County coastal bay is an excellent place for a tour.

The fall’s decoration is pretty impressive too. If you like to explore on two wheels, rent a bike and check out some of the bike trails!

Where to eat? The crisp days of fall are perfect for a hot coffee, and the Door County Coffee and Tea Company has recovered. Also, check out the grapes and apples. Do not miss the pizza at Royal Tomato Restaurant!

Click here to check accommodation in Door County!

Paulina Rubia from paulinaontheroad.com

Black Hills, South Dakota

Once the crowds from the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally die down and the warm summer temperatures begin to cool, the Black Hills of South Dakota is the place to be.

Of course, you’ll visit the highlight of this area, the iconic Mount Rushmore, as it’s an impressive wonder of artistry and engineering.

Then, take a drive through the Black Hills to enjoy the beautiful tapestry. If you’re lucky, you’ll arrive during its colorful fall glory, but even if you miss it, it’s still a stunning area.

Custer State Park is one of the most impressive regions of the Black Hills. Through the Needles, the winding road offers gorgeous views and drop-offs, as well as some remarkable rock spires.

There are several beautiful lakes, including the picturesque Sylvan Lake. If you can visit in late September, you can see the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup.

That is where cowboys (and girls!) drive the herd of over 1,200 buffalo to maintain a strong and healthy herd. If you’re there a little later, you can join the Deadwood Oktoberfest.

They have old fashioned beer-barrel races, Weiner-dog races, and lots of other fun activities in this historic old Western town.  There is a lot to see and do in South Dakota , and particularly in the Black Hills area.

Don’t forget to try some local specialties like fry bread, buffalo, and walleye fish.

Though you can have fun at any time of the year, the fall is a special time with good weather and fun community gatherings to show you how much this state offers. 

Click here to check accommodation in the Black Hills!

Samantha Glauser from My Flying Leap

Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

One of the best autumn destinations in America is the Pocono Mountains in the northeastern region of Pennsylvania.

The Poconos have been a popular destination for years because there really is something for everyone. You can find couples resorts, family-friendly hiking trails, and gorgeous fall foliage.

The Poconos are one of the best destinations for a fall trip in America and one of the best  day trips from Philadelphia .

At only two hours from Philly and New York City, it’s a fantastic destination to check out in the fall months.

One of the best places to explore the Poconos is Ricketts Glen State Park. You’ll find ribbons of gorgeous hiking trails that are peppered with waterfalls and scenic bridges.

The most popular trail is a simple loop of easy hiking, and there are 10 other moderate-difficulty trails to explore.

Another popular Poconos destination is Bushkill Falls, a private hiking area with a series of waterfalls. The tallest of the eight waterfalls is 100 feet in height and truly stunning.

Since the land and waterfalls are privately-owned, there is a fee to enter the trails of Bushkill Falls.

The Poconos are home to several campgrounds, cabins for rent , and hotels for those that prefer better facilities. You can even stay at a casino like Mohegan Sun in Wilkes-Barre or Mount Airy Casino in Mount Pocono.

Wherever you stay, the mountains, nature, and fall foliage are enchanting. That’s why the Poconos are a fantastic fall destination in the USA.

Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia, is an excellent place for a fall vacation in the United States. With the colorful foliage enhancing its history, this charming town has a variety of autumn activities to fill your time.

Known as the largest living history museum in the United States, Colonial Williamsburg highlights the city.

Immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s history and lifestyle, as historical reenactors go about their day in the 18th Century Colonial-era town.

You can explore many of the buildings that stand from when Williamsburg was a significant city in the Colonial South. At night, you can even take a Ghost Tour through the historic area.

Adding to your autumn  Williamsburg itinerary , just next door to Colonial Williamsburg, you can walk through the picturesque campus of the College of William and Mary, the second-oldest higher education institution in the United States.

Aside from its past, Williamsburg has a few fun, modern activities to enjoy as well! If you love amusement parks, check out Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

During the fall season, the park transforms into Halloween’s Howl-O-Scream.

It’ll feel like an otherworldly experience as you walk through Busch Gardens, exploring their spooky shows and wandering into their haunted house.

Depending on when you’re in town, you might even stumble upon one of the many fall festivals.

The Williamsburg Fall Arts Festival, as well as nearby Yorktown’s Market Days and Fall Festival Celebration, and the Yorktown Wine Festival all happen in October each year, but make sure to confirm the dates before planning your trip.

Click here to check accommodation in Williamsburg!

Lyndsay Crescenti from The Purposely Lost

Ouray, Colorado

The historic mining town of Ouray is one of the best fall vacations in the US.

It has an abundance of hiking opportunities and nearby geothermal activity. Besides, its natural beauty has given it the nickname the ‘Switzerland of America’.

The picturesque main street is backed by snow-capped mountains and the San Juan Forest. Spend a morning exploring Ouray’s cute shops and getting to know it’s friendly locals like we did on our  Colorado road trip . 

For a bird’s eye view of the town, embark on the accessible Perimeter Trail. It is one of the most accessible hiking trails in Ouray.

Box Canyon Park is located just outside of Ouray and boasts an 85-foot waterfall. But for even more options, explore the network of trails and waterfalls at Cascade Falls Park.

The cooler autumn months and temperatures make it an ideal time of year to hike the region. 

After long days of hiking, we suggest relaxing at Orvis Hot Springs. This clothing-optional hot spring spa uses all-natural, never treated lithium water. 

Another relaxing activity is taking a drive along the Million Dollar Highway. Stretching from Ouray to Silverton, the Million Dollar Highway is one of the most picturesque roads in the nation. Still, as the leaves change, it is truly spectacular!

Click here to check accommodation in Ouray!

Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Woodstock, Vermont

The fall season in Vermont is magical. While all of New England is replete with colors at this time of the year, a few winding  foliage drives in Vermont  demonstrate the quiet, scenic beauty of the state.

In the center of nature’s action is Woodstock, one of America’s prettiest villages. One of the most picturesque pit stops in and around Woodstock is Sleepy Hollow Farm.

This non-functioning farm is an example of a quintessentially charming Vermontian setting, that looks even more colorful in the fall and is frequented by many photographers.

Aside from going on foliage drives, there are many attractions in Woodstock, that are popular during the fall season.

These include hiking, visiting a dairy farm and farm to tables, breweries, cheese shops, and making pit stops at covered bridges.

Mount Peg and Mount Tom are two hikes that provide stunning views of the town and the surrounding foliage.

To make up for the calories burnt after hiking, head straight to a local farm to table like Cloudland Farm to replenish yourself with a mini feast.

While you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop at either Sugarbush Farms or the nearby Quechee Gorge Village for sampling delicious local cheese.

You could even stop by at the Billings Farm & Museum to see local dairy operations in practice. The town center of Woodstock has a few cafes, art galleries, and boutiques too. 

Click here to check accommodation in Woodstock!

Supriya Manot from FunTravelog

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest is known for its natural beauty and varying landscapes. One season that does not disappoint is the fall, and one location that should be added to your ‘must-see’ list is the Columbia River Gorge.

This 80-mile canyon along the Columbia River (dividing Oregon and Washington) is an outdoor lover’s paradise full of incredible viewpoints, hiking, and wine tasting.

When visiting in the fall, you are presented with the unique opportunity to experience Hood River’s ‘Fruit Loop’ during the Fall harvest.

The Fruit Loop is a 35-mile scenic drive that leads you out from the Columbia River into Hood River and back’ past local farms, produce stands, wineries, breweries, and more.

Maps are provided both online and anywhere along the loop to make the most of your drive. Apple and pear picking is the ultimate fall activity, and Kiyokawa Orchards is the crown jewel of the area.

A visit during the fall also provides the fun of pumpkin patches and corn mazes, to which Packer Farm has both.

And the perfect way to break up and end your day is by stopping at one of the many wineries or a cider mill–The Gorge White House is full of charm with a variety of unique cider flavors.

Cathedral Ridge Winery has a fantastic view, and in the fall, the colors of the vines into the trees blend into the perfect ombre effect.

Located just over an hour away from Portland, Oregon,  the Columbia River Gorge is an easy weekend or day trip , exponentially made even more festive in the fall. 

Click here to check accommodation in Columbia River Gorge!

Lindsey Messenger from Seven Day Weekender

Redwood National Park, California

The Redwood National Park in Northern California is one of the most magical outdoor destinations in the USA. They are the ancestral lands of the Yurok, Chilula, and Tolowa tribes.

However, during the fall season, the region really comes alive as the forest of giants shifts colors from green to yellow to orange and reds.

Fall is also the shoulder season when the weather is still warm and pleasant, but the winter rains haven’t set in quite yet. Plus, the crowds are considerably less than the busy summer season.

While camping is certainly a favorable option, if you would like more solid lodgings, stay at the historic Hotel Arcata or Requa Inn , all Indigenous-owned.

Of course, one of the best  things to do in the Redwood National Park  would be to explore the trees.

Some of the best hiking trails are the Boy Scout Tree Trail and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, both offering incredible views of the towering trees.

However, you can drive through Avenue of the Gods and cruise under the trees from your vehicle for a more accessible experience.

There are a few restaurants around the Redwoods, but a must-stop location is the Mad River Brewery restaurant. It is one of the most popular spots, so be sure to make a reservation! 

Kay from The Awkward Traveller

Portland, Oregon

Spend a few days in Portland, OR  for a great mini fall getaway. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland is a fantastic place to experience the seasons.

You’ll get a chance to see the lush green trees turn to oranges and yellows and be captivated by the haunted houses around Halloween, even get go pumpkin picking.

For the best views of the autumn foliage in the city, check out the Portland Aerial Tram.

Also, a local form of transportation up to Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU), this tram gives you a quick, 4-minute ride up a hill.

During the fall, you’ll be traveling up along with students, patients, and other hospital employees and pass by gorgeous views along the way.

Portland is usually known for its quirkiness, but it’s also famous for its uniquely scary haunted houses.

During October, you’ll be able to visit The Fear PDX, Dick & Matt’s Halloween Horror Nights, and Fearlandia. Note that some of these haunted houses have age restrictions, so be sure to look them up before you go.

Visit Sauvie Island’s Pumpkin Patch for u-pick pumpkins beginning in October. They also offer other festive fall activities, including hayrides, hay maze, and a corn maze.

The gift shop is a great place to stock up on autumn decorations and holiday items.

Needless to say, Portland gets into the fall festivities and is great to visit in the autumn for more reasons than one.

Click here to check accommodation in Portland!

Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a contemporary and artsy city with architecture that is reminiscent of the past. It’s lovely to visit at any time of year, but the fall season is quite unique.

The weather is perfect as it’s cool enough that you’ll just need a light jacket, but you still have that New Mexico sun shining on you.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll want to head to the Santa Fe National Forest. The National Forest is about an hour drive from the downtown area and is perfect for day hiking, camping, star gazing, and more.

During the fall season, the foliage is fantastic! The Aspen trees turn a beautiful golden-yellow color, and the entire forest is a sea of gold and green.

There is also plenty to do indoors! As the weather gets colder, opt to check out one of the many museums or check out Meow Wolf, an interactive art experience.

Feeling hungry? Try hatch chili, it’s served as salsa in almost any restaurant in New Mexico. The season typically goes from the beginning of August through September, so you’ll get the best of the best in early fall.

For classic New Mexican cuisine, check out Tomasita’s. The family-owned restaurant has been serving Santa Fe for over 40 years. Besides, this place is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

And if you’re thirsty, try one of their Margaritas and enjoy all the  things to do in Santa Fe .

Click here to check accommodation in Santa Fe!

Jeanine Romo from Le Wild Explorer

Oregon Scenic Byways, Oregon

Oregon’s scenic byways and it’s 30 million acres of forest are the perfect places to spot fall foliage. Many people have seen gorgeous autumn photos of Multnomah Falls on the Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway.

Still, the entire state is filled to the brim with color and fun in September and October. Besides the Columbia River Highway, here are the 3 best Scenic Byways that are ‘must-sees’ in fall.

The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway is the ultimate autumn drive.

Make sure to hit the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, where you can hike, bike, boat, and fish surrounded by verdant green forest dotted with red and orange hues offsetting the turquoise water.

You will find tons of red vine maples in the Silver Falls State Park area where you can see multiple waterfalls will fall colors.

Visit nearby Willamette Valley, the wine region of Oregon, for fall harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and other fall fun.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway will wind you through an area of beautiful lakes with mountain views of Mt Bachelor and Mt Hood.

The Deschutes River trail is filled with brilliant red vine maple trees. The heavily forested Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway from Gold Hill to Crater Lake and back west through the Umpqua National Forest offers gorgeous foliage.

Don’t miss Toketee Falls, the basalt column waterfall where the trail and surrounding area are filled with amber and crimson leaves.

Enjoy fall in crisp and colorful Oregon. It’s the perfect  USA trip idea . 

Click here to check accommodation at Salem, Oregon!

Jenifer Byington from The Evolista

Best Places to Visit in October

Dallas, texas.

It’s not a secret that the fall is the best time to visit Dallas, Texas —the temperatures aren’t overwhelmingly hot, the tourist traffic has slowed down, and the Texas State Fair is in full swing.

If you’re spending one day in Dallas , you will want to enjoy the spirit of the Lone Star state and relish the attractions!

However, if you have at least a whole weekend in Dallas , you will want to hit the Arboretum. There you can savor tasty bites from the veggie garden, celebrate Oktoberfest, and enjoy live performances.

Beyond that, if you’re visiting the city with your significant other and are looking for romantic things to do in Dallas –but in autumn style–you might want to munch a generous piece of pumpkin pie together with your partner.

At Emporium Pies, they serve a delicious treat with a gingerbread crust and a pumpkin custard filled with cinnamon cloves. Need we say more?

Oh, and that venue is in the Deep Ellum. You may want to stretch your visit and go on a mural hunt !

If you’re looking where to stay in Dallas , know that you are better off booking your accommodation in advance since many people visit the city for Big Tex.

However, for a trip with your significant other, we recommend you stay in a treehouse in the city, which is not only one of the most romantic cabins in Texas but also an incredible Texas treehouse .

Gatlinburg, Tennessee 

Gatlinburg is a perfect fall getaway located right next to the Great Smoky Mountain Park. As the leaves change colors, the mountain drives provide amazing vistas of the tree-covered scenery.

At the Gatlinburg, Scenic Overlook, you can see further than almost anywhere else.

Spend some time at Ober Gatlinburg, where you can take a ride on the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway to get a birds-eye view of the area in a cable car.

You can also check out the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, which takes you to the top of Crockett Mountain for a breathtaking view. 

With the summer over, the weather is much better for enjoying the area with less humidity and lower temperatures.

Additionally, you will find the crowds thin out slightly, especially during the week. This makes it a perfect time to check out the more touristy attractions like Dollywood.

Depending on when you go, you might be able to check out some seasonal events like Oktoberfest, Gatlinburg’s Taste of Autumn, or Gatlinburg’s Chili Cookoff.

You do not need to fill your schedule with activities. Leave some of your time relaxing in your cabin.

The  cabins in Gatlinburg  are well known for having great amenities like hot tubs and porches with views where you can relax being surrounded by the beautiful colors of fall. 

Dan Bagby from Cabin Critic

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming-Idaho-Montana

For the outdoor enthusiasts, late September, early October is ideal for visiting Yellowstone National Park, a gorgeous area in the northwest corner of Wyoming,  United States .

Take the picturesque fall foliage against the backdrop of Mount Washburn or Gallatin Mountain Range. You’ll skip the summer crowds and sneak in just before the first snowfall of the fall season.

Head over to Yellowstone National Park while the crowds are meager, and the wildlife is much more abundant. In fact, fall happens to be the mating season for elks and moose.

The mating call of the male elk sounds like a whistling roar and unlike anything you’ve ever heard. There are also guided tours to witness this phenomenon.

If mating calls don’t excite you, see the geothermal features such as hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

While Old Faithful may be the most famous geyser, there are plenty of smaller geysers that are awe-inspiring. Make sure to check out alternative hot springs and geysers such as Pink Cone Geyser and Riverside Geyser.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is spectacular. It provides epic views if you are adventurous enough to hike either South or North Rim trails. Ideally, if you have enough time, you can hike both.

Don’t miss out on visiting Artist Point, Point Sublime Hike at South Rim, and Inspiration Point and Lookout Point at North Rim.

If you plan on going in October, some services might be limited. Buy items like drinks and food outside the park since local stores are usually closed. Also, check the dates when the stores in the park are open.

Click here to check accommodation in Yellowstone!

Ivan from Mind TheTravel

Salem, Massachusetts

Salem, Massachusetts, is undoubtedly one of the best fall destinations, particularly for travels in October. Known as one of the spookiest towns in the US, Salem is infamous for its 1690s Witch Trials.

You can learn about this dark part of American history during any visit to Salem, but the fall brings an atmosphere all its own. 

Despite its painful past, modern-day Salem has embraced its witchy history. Today, you’ll find the town is rife with magic and mystery.

From browsing magic shops in the quaint downtown to joining a practicing witches tour, you can have an enchanting time when you visit Salem. 

Visiting  Salem in October  is the best time of year. There are the usual attractions and sites, but the entire month of October is Halloween-focused, with Haunted Happenings taking place all over town.

There are many spooky and festive events to take part in. 

If you’re not into the witchy stuff, there are still many reasons to visit Salem in the fall.

For instance, stunning fall foliage, gorgeous cool weather, plenty of maritime and literary-historical sites (including Nathaniel Hawthorne’s House of Seven Gables), ghost tours, great restaurants, excellent shopping, and much more. 

Click here to check accommodation in Salem!

Amy Hartle from New England With Love

Hudson Valley, New York

There are so many wonderful  things to do in New York’s Hudson Valley in the fall . First, of course, is leaf-peeping. The valley is ablaze with stunning fall color in mid-late October.

Several top spots to see the stunning fall color are Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Mountain Preserve, and the rail trails. Get there early, as the parking lots do get full.

An excellent place to stay is Mohonk Mountain House , a Victorian-era hodgepodge fantasy surrounded by spectacular fall color. Fall is also the perfect time to visit a farm.

Plenty of farms are open for apple picking, which is an excellent activity for your family vacation.

For a more adult-focused version, several apple orchards are also home to cider houses, and it’s possible to pick apples, then sample cider and enjoy wood-fired pizza in the apple orchard.

Dozens of farm stands sell other seasonal fruit and veggies as well. Several farms also have hayrides for the kids and corn mazes to get lost in.

Pumpkin patches, found throughout the area, are great places to find the perfect pumpkin for Halloween. There is also an incredible Great Jack o’ Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson.

Thousands of pumpkins are carved into Jack o’ Lanterns and arranged in mind-bending three-dimensional displays. There is something for everyone in the Hudson Valley in the fall. 

James Ian from Travel Collecting

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina, is the quintessential southern fall getaway. Renowned for being a top food destination in the US, it’s also one of the best places in the US to see the brilliant display of fall colors.

High on the list for visitors looking for what to do in Asheville is to see the fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This historic roadway spans 469 miles and features the incredible beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Smoky Mountains.

You can hop onto the parkway in Asheville and stop for scenic hikes. Park along pullouts for sweeping photo-worthy views, or  visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park  for even more vivid fall colors.

Other fun fall activities in Asheville include apple picking at one of the many U-Pick farms.

As one of the biggest producers of apples, western North Carolina becomes an apple lovers paradise in the fall with apple festivals and local farms opening up to the public for a fun fall day of apple picking, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes.

After noshing on apples, you can explore Downtown Asheville and walk the Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile walking trail with 30 landmarks that explain the architecture and history of Downtown Asheville.

You can get a map of the walk at Pack Place on Asheville’s Pack Square. No visit to Asheville is complete without dining on some of the local Appalachian inspired southern cuisines.

Standout restaurants include Rhubarb, Jargon, and the original Tupelo Honey. 

Click here to check accommodation in Asheville!

Christina from Live A Wilder Life

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the best places in the US to visit in the fall, especially in October.

Every October, Albuquerque hosts the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world.

People come from all over the globe to see thousands of hot air balloons lift off in flight. These balloons come in wild shapes from penguins to cows to cars.

The sunrise hot air balloon flight and the evening balloon ‘glow’ can’t miss events. The adventurous will even be able to fly in a hot air balloon themselves.

But Albuquerque has more to offer than just the Fiesta. It’s the largest city in New Mexico.

It has many wonderful museums like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and the Albuquerque Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the town.

These museums host fascinating exhibits on local artists, the history of New Mexico’s 19 pueblos, and the Spanish Duke of Albuquerque, for whom the city was named.

Finally, take a tour of filming locations in the town for the TV shows Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. If you’re lucky, you might even see one of the stars around Albuquerque.

Click here to check accommodation in Albuquerque!

Stella Jane from  Around the World in 24 Hours

Texas Hill Country

Most of the US is preparing for chilly weather, but not here in Texas. Oh, no. The weather is just cooling off to a comfortable temperature, making it perfect to visit some lovely places in the Texas Hill Country on a fall vacation in the USA!

Of course, you have many more options, but you could start off your fall in Texas getaway by visiting San Antonio , the Alamo City.

From there, head up to Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World. Still, the places you’ll visit along the way are what make this fall vacation epic.

The trip to Austin is filled with a bunch of small towns, lush landscapes, enjoyable wineries, and many natural sights.

Stop by charming Fredericksburg for German food (yes, it’s a lovely German town in Texas ), enjoyable Wimberley for shopping, and New Braunfels and Jacob’s Well, for a swim. Places like Canyon Lake and San Marcos are definitely worth the time as well!

If you want to experience fall in Texas, there’s no better place than the Texas Hill Country.

Click here to find accommodation in the region or splurge on one of the loveliest luxury cabins in Texas !

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is a great place to visit in the autumn since you can enjoy both NBA basketball and collegiate football.

There are gorgeous scenic drives to take nearby that have stunning fall foliage, and the city always has delicious food and drink options. 

Basketball season traditionally opens in late October, so get tickets and come to enjoy an Oklahoma City Thunder game. After the game, walk over to Bricktown, a great neighborhood to enjoy a night out on the town. 

If you prefer football to basketball, you can drive to Norman, a suburb of OKC, to watch a University of Oklahoma Sooner’s football game.

Year after year, OU is ranked as one of the best football teams in the country. Nothing says fall in the US quite like a great college football game. 

Authentic Oklahoma cuisine  is excellent to eat in the autumn season since it’s heavier. A chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and a slice of pecan pie are just three of the twelve dishes on the official Oklahoma State Meal.

While you probably can’t eat the entire state meal, it is an excellent feat to attempt!

For autumn colors, take a day trip to Talimena Scenic Drive. The foliage here in autumn is stunning, and its a great way to get out and see a bit of the countryside. 

Click here to check accommodation in Oklahoma!

Stephanie Craig from Oklahoma Wonders

Yosemite, California

In Yosemite in Fall, you’ll find crisp weather, glorious autumnal colors, and be able to see more of the park with significantly fewer visitors.

That makes it a great time to visit. Yosemite National Park remains open for all of October and some parts throughout November, too. Although there are early snows, some areas, like the Tioga road, will close early. 

Yosemite tends to have evergreen trees, but you can still see some stunning maples, black oaks, and Pacific dogwoods, which give a tremendous autumnal display.

Average temperatures here are in the mid-50s, so it’s an excellent time for hiking, although it could be cooler overnight.

After the dry months of summer, when Yosemite’s waterfalls aren’t spectacular, you’ll start to see some more water in the park, and it makes for a fabulous show.

The Ahwahnee Hotel is quite simply THE place to stay in Yosemite. It’s the park’s only luxury hotel and is absolutely stunning.

For a more budget-friendly option, head to Curry Village , a great location with comfortable canvas-sided tent cabins and shared bathroom facilities.

There are catering facilities at each of Yosemite’s accommodation areas, plus small grocery stores too.

Options range from camp-style kitchens, food pavilions to fine dining, for a treat take Sunday brunch at the Ahwahnee dining room.

Whatever time of year you visit Yosemite, it’s a stunning landscape that you will never forget.

Sarah Carter from  ASocialNomad

Colorado Springs, Colorado

If you are looking for a place with unmatched beauty and adventure Colorado Spring is the perfect travel destination.

It offers beautiful scenic drives and is home to one of the most beautiful natural creations in the country.

Still, Garden of the Gods is the crowning jewel of Colorado Springs.  It is a destination for families  and experienced mountain climbers alike. The hikes are not too tricky.

The red rock formations offer a challenge for any professional climber. After spending some time at the park, you can head to Pikes Peak to marvel at the mountains’ views. 

The perfect places to fill up and get a stomach full of hearty food are the Denver Biscuit Company, El Poblano Mobile, and the Korean Garden.

The portions are enormous and so good, you won’t regret any of these choices for lunch or dinner. 

If you really want to see something unusual, take a day trip to the Royal Gorge Bridge and walk across one of the longest suspended bridges.

After walking the bridge, you can view the gorge from the trolley car that takes you across back to the other side. Your final adventure is a trail ride through the Rockies next to the Arkansas River.

No matter what you are interested in Colorado Springs has something to offer everyone, especially in the fall. You will see the parks come to life with color, leaving you wanting to come back year after year.

Click here to check accommodation in Colorado Springs!

Corritta from It’s a Family Thing

Catskill Mountains, New York

The Catskill Mountains is a beautiful region in upstate New York covered with forests and rivers and is a great place to unwind from the hectic city life.

This incredible fall destination is a must to view the colors of foliage. Being just 2 hours north of New York City, it makes for an easy day or weekend trip.

There are many ways to experience this fantastic event of nature.

For instance, plan to hike some trails and mountains across the Catskills or go on a scenic drive through the small towns and villages with the colorful landscape.

The breathtaking drive from New York through the Catskills makes it one of the  best road trips in USA .

There are many adventure activities, including mountain biking or zipline at Hunter Mountain. 

A must-try is the train ride on the heritage Catskill Mountain railroad scenic route.

The train ride begins from Westbrook Station at Kingston Plaza, and it traverses through the mountains and rivers on a 1 hour 15 minutes journey giving breathtaking views of the fall foliage.

The Fall Foliage Rides happens from September to October on the weekends and holidays. The tickets are $15 for adults and $9 for children aged 2-12 years.

Besides, there is an open car on the train as well that it is fun to enjoy the vistas. 

The best time to visit Catskills is September end to October, with peak foliage around mid-October. 

Click here to find accommodation in the Catskill Region!

Neha Kulshrestha from Travelmelodies 

Boston, Massachusetts

As one of New England’s biggest cities, Boston is one of the best fall vacations in the US.

Located in Massachusetts, a visit to  Boston on the weekend  is ideal for its New England charm combined with a busy coastal city.

The best season to visit Boston is during fall – the humid summer season, filled with graduations ends, and the cooler fall weather makes for a quieter time.

This is when Boston’s leaves turn to a golden-red color, and you don’t even have to travel far to see them!

Boston is home to incredible park areas, which are even more special during fall for their foliage. Some of the best areas include the Boston Public Gardens and Boston Common.

Travelers should also go for a stroll through Beacon Hill, a historic neighborhood, filled with cobblestone streets, beautiful brickwork, and beautiful fall foliage.

Lesser known amongst tourists is the Charles River Esplanade. Also, a stroll along gives you views of the quiet Charles river and fall foliage.

By the way, that’s a very romantic thing to do in Boston !

If you’re feeling a tad hungry after all, your walking and leaf-peeping make sure you stop by Tatte Bakery, a well-known Boston cafe chain.

For those after something more filling, visit The Friendly Toast (locations in Back Bay and Cambridge) instead for some delicious diner breakfast or burgers. 

Click here to find accommodation in Boston!

Mae-Gene from The Wandering Suitcase

Best Places to Visit in November

Here are some of the best places to visit in November in the USA !

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of the best places to visit for fall foliage in Colorado—and in the entire United States, for that matter.

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen transforms into an incredible palette of colors. Its iconic aspen trees complete the picture with their golden color.

Besides being a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this mountain town also has plenty of scenic vistas where you can see incredible fall colors.

The most scenic route that leads to Aspen is Independence Pass, the highest pass in continental North America that sits above 12,000 feet.

While you will see some of the best fall foliage on this route, this is far from the only place where you can see the stunning fall colors. 

During fall many people flock to Maroon Bells, a pair of jagged mountains in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

These iconic peaks are among the most photographed mountains in North America, and fall is the best time to see them in full glory. And the good news is that you can even take a shuttle bus from Aspen to Maroon Bells. 

Another great way to enjoy the area’s fall foliage is to take the Silver Queen Gondola to Aspen Mountain.

When you get to the tops, you will be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the vibrant fall colors. 

Aspen is also a good day trip from Denver since it’s only 160 miles away. If you want to read more about the  best things to do in Denver , read this guide. 

Click here to find accommodation in Aspen!

Daria from The Discovery Nut

Death Valley National Park, California

As the largest national park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley National Park is exceptional in California.

Besides the sheer size of the park, Death Valley is also home to the lowest elevation point in the entire US at Badwater Basin, as well as home to sand dunes, badlands, desert landscapes, and mountainous terrain.

Much of the park lies in the Mojave Desert, which is also home to the neighboring  Joshua Tree National Park , roughly four hours south.

Because Death Valley is mostly within the Mojave Desert, it is tough to visit during summer, with temperatures often above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best to visit in the fall when cooler temperatures roll in, and hiking is more possible around the park. Hiking in Death Valley can be as easy or difficult as you like, with trails ranging across all levels.

It begins with short half-mile hikes up to challenging 14-mile treks. Be sure to bring plenty of water, no matter the season.

If hiking is not for you, there is plenty to see throughout the park while driving around and stopping at viewpoints. The range of landscapes is unbelievable. 

Both camping and resort-style lodging are available inside the park.

Monica from This Rare Earth

Livermore, California

If you are a wine lover, Livermore California is one of the best fall vacations in the US.

Livermore is not as well known as some other California wine regions like Napa and Sonoma despite being one of the oldest wine regions in the USA and having multi-award-winning wineries.

Fall is a beautiful time of year to visit this hidden gem wine region. Firstly the weather is perfect for wine tasting.

The sun tends to shine during the day allowing visitors to cycle in between their  Livermore wine tastings  or sit outside to enjoy their wine.

This pleasant climate is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities without getting too warm. Secondly, everything is still open in Livermore, but there aren’t as many visitors.

This means there are no crowds and few queues. Best of all, winemakers and their staff have time to chat.

One of the most enjoyable elements of tasting wine is learning more about it, such as the stories behind the development of the wine.

Finally, the fall colors of Livermore are just stunning. The leaves across the vineyards are changing colors from soft yellows to deep reds.

The light in Livermore softens with the slightly cooler weather basking everything in a gentle yellow glow.

Sitting outside gazing at the golden Livermore vineyards while sipping a California Chardonnay in the quiet is a little piece of heaven that is best achieved in the fall months of the year.

Click here to check accommodation in Livermore!

Amanda O’Brien from The Boutique Adventurer

Mammoth Lakes, California

The Eastern Sierra of California is a hidden gem for fall vacationers, and Mammoth Lakes is its crown jewel.

Most people visit Mammoth during the winter for snow sports or in the summer for hiking and  mountain biking . Still, the fall months are an equally incredible time to visit.

The surrounding lakes and alpine meadows transform into brilliant landscapes as the aspen leaves change from green to gold, and the high peaks get their first dusting of snow.

For outdoor enthusiasts, choose from one of Mammoth’s many day hikes. Duck Pass Trail to Duck Lake is a local favorite or head up to Mosquito Flats for one of the most scenic hikes in the Eastern Sierra along Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes.

A drive (or bike ride!) along Minaret Road to Minaret Lookout is also a great way to experience the fall foliage. Continue on the same road to visit the geologically fascinating Devil’s Postpile National Monument and cascading Rainbow Falls.

For budding or advanced photographers, Mammoth Lakes is a fantastic place to capture images any time of year but visit in the fall to attend the annual Mammoth Photo Festival.

Learn from pros how to capture starry skies, what it takes to be an adventure photographer, and how to create a story through images.

Mammoth Lakes is a year-round destination, but the fall months showcase it at its best. Whether you head out for a hike, take a scenic drive to view the fall colors, or attend a fall festival, Mammoth Lakes will not disappoint. 

Click here to check accommodation near the Mammoth Lakes!

Becky Timbers from Two Wheeled Wanderer

Charleston, South Carolina, Is One of the Best Fall Vacations in the US

Charleston is one of the most charming cities for a fall vacation in the US. The weather is mild, with the slightest chill in the air, and the days are shorter.

Just the perfect conditions for romantic walks along the gaslight paths and alleyways that Charleston is known for. Adding to this cozy atmosphere is the smoke you’ll smell coming out surrounding chimneys.

While  fall weather in Charleston  is typically in the low 70’s and high 60’s ℉, Charlestonian’s find this a bit chilly and tend to bundle up at night.

This cool-weather may not be great for the beach, but it is very comfortable for walking tours. Fun options include tours of historic Charleston and pub crawls.

Charleston is rumored to be a very haunted city for those craving a spook, so you could even do a haunted pub tour or explore the Old City Jail after dark. Finally, with summer behind you, fall brings the eating season back again.

This is perfect; as Charleston has an excellent restaurant scene, it would be a shame to miss out. High-end favorites include Husk and Fig, as well as traditional brunch staples like Magnolia’s or Poogan’s Porch.

No matter what you do, do not leave Charleston without eating biscuits and pimento, either together or separately.

Click here to find accommodation in Charleston!

Theresa J McKinney from Fueled By Wanderlust

San Diego, California

Fall is a wonderful time to visit or at least spend one day in San Diego . The summer crowds have disappeared, but the weather is still delightful, with an average high in the low to mid-70s.

If you are lucky, you might even get a few days in the mid-80s, which would be perfect for a day on the beach.

In the fall, San Diego is cooler, quieter, and all-around a little more peaceful with school back in session and people getting ready for Halloween or Thanksgiving.

On top of it being nice brisk but sunny weather, you can get great deals on travel expenses such as hotels and flights. There are also quite a few fun events in San Diego during the fall that are worth checking out.

• Mexican Independence Day in Old Town: Celebrate this Mexican Holiday at some of the best Mexican Restaurants in San Diego. Besides, history buffs will love to explore this area.
• San Diego Beer Festival: As one of the Craft Beer capitals of the US, this is the perfect festival to try as many brews as possible. 

Halloween Events in San Diego There are plenty of  things to do on Halloween in San Diego , from parties to haunted houses and more.

The Coronado Film Festival takes place each November and is perfect for Classic Movie lovers. 

Click here to check accommodation in San Diego!

Maria Haase from San Diego Explorer

Wrapping Up on the Best Places to Visit in Fall in the USA

It’s not a secret that America has some of the most magical and inspiring fall destinations.

So plan your fall vacation or at least a weekend getaway in one of these spots, and enjoy the mesmerizing features of the season!

Now, tell us what’s your favorite fall vacation spot?

Since we couldn’t decide on only one place we divided them by month:

• Best places to visit in September in USA – Seattle, Washington
• Best places to visit in October in USA – Dallas, Texas
• Best places to visit in November in USA – Mammoth Lakes, California

Do you agree with us? Let us know in the comments. We would love to hear from you!

Did you like this article about the best fall vacations in the US? Then save it to your Pinterest travel board!

Valerie L Bilnoski

Thursday 4th of August 2022

I think Aspen was put in the wrong month. The foliage is best the last of September and the first of October. In November the leaves will be down.

10 fall vacation ideas in the US to plan now

These spots shine each autumn.

With cooler temperatures comes the opportunity to see some of the country’s most beautiful scenes at their peak, from the foliage of the Midwest to Halloween parades in New Orleans. Channel your end-of-summertime sadness into planning a trip solely dedicated to basking in fall’s splendor. Ahead, explore 10 getaways we’re bookmarking for current and future fall trips.

Experience autumn in New York

There are a myriad of reasons to visit New York City in the fall, from early Christmas shopping to the chance to see Broadway debuts. The overall calm-after-the-storm, post-summer vibe with thinned-out crowds, cooler temperatures and splendid fall colors only add to the autumnal magic. A visit to Central Park is great any time of year, but there’s no better time to appreciate the city’s largest expanse of trees (there are more than 20,000 spanning 150 different species). Hop on a ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park to Governor’s Island for art exhibits, oysters, and the iconic hammock grove. Al fresco dining is also at its best once the days cool down. Take advantage of the smaller crowds of shoulder season by booking a table at one of the city’s best restaurants ( Via Carota , Momofuku Noodle Bar , and Dame Restaurant , to name a few).

Head to northern Michigan for peak Midwestern foliage

The northern half of Michigan is dotted with dozens of the Midwest’s most charming destinations, from Petoskey to Mackinac Island . If you opt to visit Mackinac Island, don’t miss a carriage tour in the crisp fall air or a bike ride through the island’s many trails (rent some wheels from Mackinac Island Bike Shop ). Head back to the mainland to visit the Tunnel of Trees in Harbor Springs and make the drive across the five-mile-long Mackinac Bridge to see the Upper Falls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park , located on the northern edge of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Bask in NFL glory at SoFi Stadium

For many of us, the start of football season goes hand-in-hand with the onset of fall. But you’d be hard-pressed to usher in the season in a more heart-pounding fashion than heading to SoCal to see the L.A. Rams—Super Bowl LVI champs—in action at the SoFi Stadium . Not only is it an architectural marvel with the industry’s first indoor-outdoor canopy roof, you can often feel the sea breeze from five miles away depending on your seat. Inside, there are chic bars and food stalls with names paying homage to the city’s streets. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience, even if the Rams do take down your hometown heroes.

Opt for the macabre at All Hollow’s Eve in New Orleans

It’s hard to top what is arguably America’s most haunted city when it comes to choosing a Halloween destination. Haunted tours , parades, and festivities abound, with activities centered in the Marigny and, more raucously, the French Quarter . The obvious exception aside, it’s the biggest New Orleans party of the year. Opt to get around via streetcar—something about the open-air design sets the scene for a seasonal adventure. Since the weather is cooler, it’s also a great time to take in the city by bike. Book a guided experience with Fat Tire Bike Tours or rent your wheels from The American Bicycle Company . Fall is also one of the best times to enjoy one of the city’s delicacies: gumbo. For the best bowl, head to Gabrielle Restaurant for a smoky take on the classic dish or Gris-Gris for andouille and chicken gumbo.

Surround yourself in the fall light of the Bay Area

The Bay Area has a little something for everyone come fall. The weather—which is warmer in San Francisco and some other coastal towns than it is during the summer—makes it the ideal season to visit, too. Take in the fall harvest in wine country (we recommend Tank Garage Winery for glasses served in a renovated 1930s gas station), hike Big Sur , or tour the city by foot sans fog. There are plenty of seasonal activities, too, from apple picking at Chileno Valley Ranch in Petaluma to a tour of the supposedly haunted Winchester Mystery House .

See striking foliage in Maine's Acadia National Park

The 47,000 acres of Acadia Park National Park offer some of the most stunning fall landscapes in the country. With aspens and maples blazing to life in brilliant red, orange, and yellow hues against mountain peaks, it’s an ideal environment for taking in the crisp air. While hiking is the obvious activity in a national park (check out the Champlain Mountain & Beehive Loop Trail ), there are also scenic drives like Park Loop Road and bike trails along the park’s many carriage roads. For a completely different angle, book a spot on a boat tour to see the sights from the water.

Hike the many trails of Telluride

You may associate Telluride with ski season, but don’t sleep on the fall getaway potential of this resort town. The colors of the many aspens make this year-round destination an outdoor lover’s dream for hiking, biking, golfing, festival-hopping, and more. For the best views of the fall foliage, check out Eider Creek Trail, Deep Creek Trail, or a loop around Hope Lake . Your hard work traversing the trails ensures that your first buttered rum cocktail at one of the cozy in-town bars taste just as well-earned as it does in January (we recommend The View or the outdoor bar at Tomboy Tavern ).

Hit the road (and trails) on the Blue Ridge Parkway

It’s tough to nail down a singular fall destination across the Appalachian Mountains, but the Blue Ridge Parkway is a clear standout. The 469-mile National Parkway stretches across Virginia and North Carolina, linking Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Peak season is usually mid-late October and while this is a classic road trip route, consider giving the car a break and lacing up your hiking boots. There are plenty of scenic trails in the area offering a great way to see the landscape up close—bookmark Rough Ridge at Grandfather Mountain outside of Asheville and Crabtree Falls Trail for a moderate hike with waterfall views.

Plan Thanksgiving in Chicago

If prepping and cooking for a week straight to host the family at Thanksgiving isn’t your idea of a good time, consider planning a family jaunt to the Windy City . For the big meal, book a table for brunch at one of Chicago's countless critically lauded restaurants, like Maple & Ash for a family-style meal, The Smith for a menu that will please even the pickiest eaters, or Shaw’s Crab House for some top-notch seafood. When you aren’t eating, take an architecture cruise , join a gangsters and ghosts tour , get a birds-eye view of the city at 360 Chicago Observation Deck , or get lost in the exhibits at the Shedd Aquarium . And if you’re brave, join the Black Friday crowds down Michigan Avenue .

Immerse yourself in New York's Catskills

While such things are not likely quantifiable, it’s general consensus that this eastern region—the core of which is the 700,000 acre Catskill Park—is one of America’s best fall foliage destinations. Dotted with scenic rivers and villages, the mountainous Catskills region blazes to life in fall, while the area celebrates the harvest with festivals and farmers markets. Plan a trip entirely dedicated to hiking: Giant Ledge , North Point, and the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower are all popular fall routes. And when you’ve had your fill of the outdoors, head to one of the region’s cozy towns (Livingston Manor, Woodstock, and Catskill are all great picks) for great food and a nightcap or two.

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27 Best Fall Vacations in the US for 2023

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Looking for the best fall vacations in the US? You are in the right spot. Autumn or fall months are the transitional periods from summer to winter. Typically they are the months of September, October, and November.

The USA experiences 4 distinct seasons, and fall is characterized by crisp mornings, shorter days, Halloween events, (my favorite) PSL aka Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and foliage. This is when trees turn golden-y orange-y colors, and this will surely warm up your hearts!

So here’s are the best fall getaways in the USA to take this year!

27 Best Fall Vacations in the USA to add to your bucket list

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1 . Vermont, New England Road Trip

By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

A road trip through Vermont in the fall is a spectacular way to see the foliage the Green Mountain state is known for. Start in southern Vermont near Brattleboro and work your way north.

The first stop is at the West Dummerston Covered Bridge on Route 30, one of over 100 covered bridges in Vermont. Continue up Route 100 with its quintessential Vermont scenery.

Stop at country stores and scenic overlooks to view the colorful leaves. Don’t miss the Vermont Country Store in Weston for a dose of Americana and unique gifts.

The picturesque village of Stowe is worth visiting. Take a short hike into Brigham Falls or Moss Glen Falls for a dose of gorgeous falling water with your autumn scenery. Stroll quaint Stowe streets for great shopping and restaurants. 

Try the gondola ride that gives marvelous views of Mt. Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream cone at the world-famous Ben and Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury as you leave Stowe.

Further north you will find the vibrant city of Burlington. Visit Waterfront Park along Lake Champlain for views of the Adirondack Mountains in peak colors across the water. 

The pedestrian mall at Church Street is perfect for shopping, dining, and people watching. Be sure you stay overnight here so you can watch the best sunset in New England. The Hilton Burlington has rooms with a view of Lake Champlain.

The Champlain Islands are the final destination on your fall road trip. Search for the roadside miniature stone castles of South Hero Island. Visit one of the apple orchards or the Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery for a taste of local agrotourism. 

The Crescent Bay Farm Bed & Breakfast, a restored 1820’s farmhouse, is a fabulous place to stay.  

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Located in the state of Arizona the Grand Canyon National Park is one of the best places to visit in the fall.

The park sees an influx of tourists during this season, and there are many reasons why – the crispness in the air, breathtaking vistas, beautiful foliage, and a variety of outdoor activities provide visitors with the perfect scenery for a memorable vacation.

In autumn, Grand Canyon National Park takes on vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red as the leaves on the trees start to turn. The canyon walls also come alive with color when the summer heat fades away. 

Grand Canyon’s desert climate is especially beautiful during fall; you can take in amazing views of the entire canyon from its many observation points while enjoying cooler temperatures.

The park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping to epic sunset jeep rides. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, book a helicopter tour to experience the canyon from an entirely different perspective.

Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Rim is about a four hour drive, so it is perfect for a road trip in the fall!

READ : One Day in Grand Canyon | Best Grand Canyon South Rim Tours

3. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque offers a wealth of outdoor and cultural activities perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy some autumnal fun. 

The temperature in Albuquerque during fall is usually moderate, making it the perfect time of year to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling or walking around the city, particularly in October and November. 

There are plenty of trails in the area to explore, as well as great spots for camping or picnicking.

The most popular activity during fall in Albuquerque is experiencing the vibrant colors of changing foliage. You can witness this unique natural phenomenon by taking a drive to the Sandia Mountains. 

The hike up the La Luz Trail is perfect for those wanting to take in some of nature’s most stunning autumn beauty.

There are plenty of cultural activities that make Albuquerque a great fall destination as well. The city is known for its vibrant art and food scenes, which can be explored by visiting one of its many museums or cafes. 

The lively downtown district has plenty of live music, street performers, and art galleries to explore. Not to mention its many hot air balloon festivals which are amazing. 

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a crowd puller. This hot air balloon festival takes place in early October. If you have a hot air balloon ride on your bucket list item then you mustn’t miss this colorful event. 

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is an outdoorsy lover’s paradise in the USA. It has many different rock formations, with narrow canyons and other attractions. 

The fall season is one of the best times to visit Zion National Park. The temperatures are cooler, there are fewer crowds, and the colors of fall are incredibly vivid.

The park is home to many different types of trees, including cottonwood, maple, and oak, which turn a brilliant yellow in autumn.

There are so many outdoor activities you can do during your visit – from hiking along the Virgin River to taking scenic drives around Zion Canyon. 

You can also explore the iconic Narrows, trek up Angels Landing, take a guided tour of Zion’s slot canyons, or simply relax and enjoy the changing foliage.

And at night, don’t forget to look up; the sky is particularly stunning in autumn! 

Whether you’re an avid astronomer or just a casual stargazer, the crisp air and clear skies make for a perfect evening of constellation spotting. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable autumn getaway, Zion National Park should be at the top of your list! 

5. Napa Valley, California

By Dhara from Roadtripping California

Looking for leaf-peeping destinations in California ? Consider Napa Valley, an easy drive from the San Francisco Bay Area, for a double dose of fall color: not only on the trees in the region but also on the vines! 

Fall comes later in the year to Napa Valley, with colors generally peaking somewhere between very late October to mid-November. We visited around Thanksgiving and found the valley ablaze with color even at that time!

Tour some of the beautiful wineries in the area to see fall colors. Some vineyards are perched high up on hills, affording great panoramas of an orange patchwork quilt of color in the vineyards below.

One of the best things to do in Napa Valley is strolling Yountville’s main street. Yountville is one of the pretty towns in the valley, and its main street has mature trees that turn to bright yellows, oranges, and reds in the fall.

You can also check out fall colors in the area by driving the roads through the countryside. Nearby Sonoma County also offers excellent leaf- and vine-peeping.

Make sure you bring your appetite when you visit because restaurants in the valley offer fall menus featuring the favorite flavors and tastes of the season!

READ : San Francisco Road Trip Ideas

6. Acadia National Park, Portland to Bar Harbor Road Trip

By Candice from CS Ginger

The drive from Portland to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park takes about three hours but there are lots of great things to see along the way.

The most scenic and entertaining route is along Highway 1. This route takes about 40 minutes longer but is well worth the extra drive.

While in Portland, be sure to visit the five lighthouses in the city, the waterfront, and the Old Port neighborhood. Old Port is a historic district lined with cobblestone streets and full of restaurants, boutiques, and specialty shops.

The best place to see the fall foliage in Portland is at Casco Bay. Also, be on the lookout for Oktoberfests in Portland as well as the Portland Harvest Festival!  

As you head up the coast to Bar Harbor, there are lots of beautiful places to stretch your legs and explore. Here are some of the best stops on the way to Bar Harbor – Giant’s Stairs, Harpswell, Popham Beach State Park, Muscongus Bay, and Searsport’s Nature Preserves. 

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park is a beautiful place to visit in the fall. If you want to see the foliage changing, the best time to visit Acadia National Park is mid-October.

Highlights in Bar Harbor are Rose Eden Lobster, the Bar Harbor Shore Path, and the Gaynes. 

When you are exploring Acadia National Park be sure to visit Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and Sand Beach. Acadia National Park is one of the most diverse and beautiful national parks in the United States.

There are a number of fun fall events in Bar Harbor each year. The Acadia Night Sky Festival happens at the beginning of fall and the MDI Marathon is in October. The marathon gives you a great opportunity to see the fall colors on the island.

7. Black Hills, South Dakota

By Megan from Red Around the World

The Black Hills in South Dakota is an underrated fall getaway. You can find plenty of scenic drives and tons of amazing hikes to get out and easily admire the fall foliage that lights the area up in September and October. 

The area is perfect in the fall because there aren’t quite as many people and the weather is perfect, not too hot, not too cold.  

There are quite a few great events that you can enjoy in the Black Hills in Fall. Some of those include Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch, Deadwood Jam, Plein Air Paint Out, Custer State Park Buffalo Round-Up and Arts Festival, Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival, and Fall Volksmarch at Crazy Horse in September. 

October offers Deadwood Oktoberfest, Bierborse, Black Hills Powwow, and Deadweird.  

Take some time to get out and hike (Black Elk Peak or Cathedral Spires Trail) or do a scenic drive or two (like Iron Mountain Road or the Needles Highway ) between all these awesome fall events.  There is so much to do in the area and fall is the best time to experience it all.

8. New Hope, Pennsylvania

By Laura from Guide to Philly

Between New York and Philadelphia, the riverside town of New Hope , Pennsylvania is a perfect fall destination full of outdoor activities, shopping, and great places to eat. As a bonus, it’s one of the best places in southeastern Pennsylvania to see fall foliage. 

New Hope is known for its charming Main Street filled with boutiques, restaurants, and views of the Delaware River. Shops range from leather artisans and jewelry stores to unusual gifts, clothes, and souvenirs.

On Main Street and the surrounding area, visitors will also find several wineries and tasting rooms, which are especially fun to visit in the fall when there are harvest-related special events. 

One of the unique things to do in New Hope is to ride the New Hope Railroad. With tracks laid in the late 1800s, the railroad connects Bucks County to Philadelphia.

Visitors can travel this beautiful, leaf-filled stretch on a 1925 steam locomotive that makes special trips to see the local colors throughout October.

For people who prefer to drive, New Hope is also a great starting point for a scenic drive along Route 32, which follows the Delaware River on a beautiful drive filled with yellow, red, and orange leaves.

Visitors looking for pumpkin patches and orchards are spoiled for choice around New Hope, with lots of farms hosting pick-your-own hours and featuring specialties like fresh apple cider and apple cider donuts.

For something a little scarier, head to nearby Peddler’s Village for season-long scarecrow displays and walking plays with themes like “Murder by Gaslight” and “Homicide & Hauntings” that invite audience participation.

9. Sedona, Arizona

By Dayla from Sweet Little Journey

Mild temperatures, red rocks, golden leaves with a chance of snow – if that sounds like your perfect fall getaway, then you will absolutely love Sedona!

The months of October and November bring a welcome drop in temperatures in this hot desert which allows for some of the most comfortable hiking and sightseeing conditions of the year. 

Although Sedona is beautiful year-round, it is during the fall that this red rock town is truly at its peak! Hit up one of Sedona’s best hikes such as Bell Rock Trail, Red Rock Crossing Trail, Devil’s Bridge, or Cathedral Rock, and then grab a bite at Heartline Cafe or enjoy the views at Etch Kitchen and Bar.

If the budget is not a concern, Mii Amo is one of the best luxury stays in Sedona . This all-inclusive spa with mountain views was awarded the Top Destination Spa by Travel + Leisure in 2020 and is sure to take your breath away! 

For the best bang for your buck, you can stay in the nearby town of Village of Oak, just 10 minutes south of Sedona. There are plenty of trails that start from this area as well and the views here are just as stunning!

You’ll find everything you need here from grocery stores to restaurants, cafes, and lots of Airbnb options.

If you’re a wildlife fan, fall is the perfect time to try spotting some of Sedona’s native residents!

Antelopes, black bears, elk, and coyotes start getting easier to spot as temperatures drop so make sure you have the right zoom lens to capture all this fauna! 

10. Hanover, New Hampshire

By Nicole from GoFarGrowClose

An epic fall road trip that captures the essence of New England is the one between Boston, Massassachusets, and Hanover, New Hampshire.

You can spend time in Boston, a large city with lots of history, food, and shopping, and then Hanover, a small college town with a charming Main Street and all the cute restaurants and shops that it has to offer. 

Boston is a great walking city. There are lots of hotels in downtown Boston, including the Hyatt Regency which is conveniently located near the Freedom Trail – a 2.5-mile walk that connects 16 historical sites – or take a food tour. 

The drive between Boston and Hanover is mostly flat and through forests and rolling hills. In the fall, it is filled with trees with brilliant red, orange, and yellow leaves. 

Hanover is a great town to walk and explore right on the border of Vermont. One of the best places to stay is at the Hanover Inn, across from Dartmouth College and at the start of Main Street. 

Dartmouth College offers daily tours to explore the beautiful historical buildings. If you like to hike , you can access the Appalachian trail there. Fall is a fantastic time to explore and you will be blown away by the beautiful fall foliage.

11. Quandary Peak, Colorado 

By Lotte from  Gezond Weekmenu

Quandary Peak is one of the fourteeners in Colorado and a popular hiking destination. Standing 14,271 ft tall, it’s the highest peak in the Tenmile Range of the Rocky Mountains. The hiking trail going up the mountain is a very popular one but it’s not an easy hike! 

The trail is 12 kilometers long and you’ll be ascending 1000 meters. It took me and my husband three hours to go up and two hours to get down. 

The first part of the trail is relatively easy and climbs gradually through a forest. In fall this is one of the prettiest parts of the trail, especially with the golden aspen trees.

As you climb higher, the views get better and better. Just above the tree line, you have beautiful views over the valley below, where you’ll see a color pallet of red, orange, and yellow.  

This is also the part where the hike gets steeper, the last part is actually more of a scramble up loose rocks so be careful. From the top of the Quandary Peak, you can admire stunning 360 views and see more beautiful fall colors in the surrounding valleys.

Be aware it’s windy up there so bring a jacket. Also, be sure to wear proper hiking boots as in mid-September it had a bit of snowfall at the top. 

Quandary Peak is close to Breckenridge, a lovely mountain village and actually, one of the most popular places in Colorado to watch the fall colors. Due to its high elevation, Breckenridge is one of the first places in the USA where the leaves begin to change color, some years as early as Labor Day! 

There is even a section on the Breckenridge Tourism website dedicated entirely to visiting Breckenridge in autumn with more tips on where to admire this amazing natural yearly spectacle. 

12. Savannah, Georgia

By Erin from Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Savannah is known for being one of the most haunted cities in the U.S ., so it’s a fantastic place to visit during the month of October. You’ll find ghost tours galore, spooky fall décor, and restaurants offering seasonal fall dishes (it IS a city for foodies, after all).

Since Savannah is so far south, the leaves don’t begin changing colors until late October or early November.

After viewing the fall scenery in Connecticut, Vermont, or North Carolina, head on down to Savannah where you’ll see trees in Forsyth Park full of bright yellow leaves as late as mid-December!

Fall weather in Savannah is relatively mild. Even in late November, you can comfortably wander around and usually won’t need anything more than a light jacket or sweater.

It’s really nice to stroll through the Historic District to see pumpkins lining the curved stairs of an older home or get a peek of fall color spilling out from someone’s private garden.  

Fall is traditionally loaded with activities, too. Visitors can choose from Oktoberfest, the Tybee Pirate Fest, the Jazz Festival, Savannah PRIDE, and the Rock & Roll Marathon. There are food festivals, too!

The Savannah Food & Wine Festival is a huge event, and there are also Greek and Jewish food festivals.

Make sure you take a detour down to River Street to grab a caramel apple from River Street Sweets while you’re visiting! It’s relaxing to sit on a bench by the water and watch the sun fade into yellow and orange tones while giant container ships come and go from the Savannah port. 

Insider Travel Tips: Avoid visiting in September — or at least purchase travel insurance if you do. It’s the height of Savannah’s hurricane season! Need a (potentially haunted) place to stay? Highly recommend The Marshall House!

13. Hudson Valley, New York

By James Ian from Travel Collecting

The Hudson Valley, NY is a wonderful place for a fall getaway .  There is so much to do.  If you like to be active, it is a hiker’s paradise. 

Trails that take you to overlooks where you can see stunning views over autumnal woods include the High Peterskill Trail in Mohonk Preserve and the Minnewaska Lake Loop trail in Minnewaska State Park. Mohonk Mountain House is a magical place to stay with great hiking trails all around.   

If you prefer a more sedentary experience, there are incredible drives around the valley to take in the fall color. 

The two middle weekends in October are typically the best times for peak fall foliage, but the valley stretches all the way from New York City in the south to Albany three hours to the north, so the leaf-peeping season is quite long. 

Another great thing to do is visit one of the many farms that open up for fall activities.  There are plenty of apple orchards that you go to and pick your own apples. 

There are also hayrides, corn mazes, and even pumpkin patches where you can get in the Halloween spirit.  

Continue the Halloween festivities at the Great Jack o’Lantern Blaze, where over 3,000 pumpkins are carved and arranged in elaborate displays that expand each year. It is an incredible sight. Be sure to book your timed entry early. 

14. San Diego, California

With its mild climate and sunshine-filled days, San Diego offers some of the best outdoor activities that draw both locals and tourists alike in autumn.

The beaches are still warm enough to take a dip while enjoying the stunning views of the ocean as well as hiking trails full of beautiful foliage. There are plenty of attractions to explore such as the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and Sea World.

Fall is also a great time to experience some of the city’s cultural events, such as the CRSSD Fall Festival and La Mesa Octoberfest (September), Film Fest, Spirits Festival (October), and Food and Wine Fest (November). Be sure to check out one of the haunted houses that pop up around Halloween too!

San Diego is also known for its craft beer, and you can find plenty of local breweries with seasonal offerings that are perfect to toast the season. You’ll also find many farmers’ markets offering locally-grown produce and artisan goods from around the region.

For a unique adventure, take a trip to nearby Julian where you can pick apples at one of the local orchards and sample the famous homemade apple pies. There are plenty of quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore as well.

Read : Northern California road trip itinerary

15. Asheville, North Carolina

By Anna from Stuck On The Go

Asheville is a gorgeous destination any time of year but fall brings cool temperatures perfect for hiking, many opportunities for viewing the changing leaves, and plenty of fun fall festivals.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you busy.

Some of the best things to do outdoors in the fall are hiking, zip-lining, or taking a picnic up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Popular places to hike include Craggy Gardens, Mount Mitchell, Catawba Falls, and Graveyard Fields.

From mid September to early November, this area boasts vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange from the changing leaves.

Fall also brings many festivals to Asheville and the surrounding towns ranging from the Mountain Life Festival held in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to the Bigfoot Festival in Marion to the NC Apple Festival in Hendersonville.

Apple picking at the local orchards in nearby Hendersonville is also a fun activity for couples and families alike.

One way to make your stay even more enjoyable is to find a cabin with a mountain view and a hot tub on the deck. There’s nothing like relaxing with a glass of wine in the hot tub after a long day of exploring.

If you prefer a hotel then try the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn or if you’re on a budget then stick to the Aloft Hotel downtown.

16. Catskills, New York 

By James from Wanderus Living

The Catskills of New York is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit during the fall. The temperatures are in the 70s which makes it comfortable for hiking or adventuring during the day. 

There are so many different scenic drives, hikes, rivers, and historic destinations to visit. 

My favorite region and hiking area in the Catskills is the Neversink River area. The hikes are not super challenging, but the waterfalls, rivers, and scenic views are absolutely beautiful. This includes Denton Falls, High Falls, and Mullet Brook Falls.

The Catskills is also a great place to relax and enjoy a brewery or winery. There are so many in the area, so you really can’t go wrong with any but my personal favorite is the Crossroads Brewing Company.

One of the best times to visit the Catskills is at the very beginning of Fall, to enjoy Oktoberfest at Mountain Brauhaus.

There is an abundance of German food, beer, wine, and your typical Oktoberfest goodies. The event takes place on September 26 th and is a great way to listen to music and enjoy some good food.

When it comes to staying in the Catskills there is no shortage of amazing places to stay. If you are looking for a unique type of vacation, try an app called HipCamp which is similar to Airbnb.

HipCamp has so many amazing places to stay such as old renovated trains, treehouses, and even more!

✅ Find accommodation in Catskill

17. Midland, Michigan

By Sherry Trautman from Traveling Michigan

If you are searching for an amazing fall getaway this autumn, visit Midland Michigan .  We recommend visiting Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest as you can walk across the longest canopy walk in the United States!  

The views from 40 feet in the air are really breathtaking as you can see the stunning red, yellow, and orange hues of the trees up close, see the stunning sparkling ponds from above and walk over the glass walkway at the end of the canopy walk (if you are brave enough!). 

Other fun things to do include walking or biking at Midland City Forest as trails pass over a beautiful bridge, through dense trees and follow the scenic river. 

Also, be sure to visit the Tridge, a scenic three-way bridge offering lots of biking and walking opportunities. 

You can bike or hike all the way to the Chippewa Nature Center on paved trails from the Tridge.  You will see several ponds, marshes, an observation tower, and lots of wildlife!

We recommend staying at the H Hotel as it is located right downtown near the Tridge with lots of food, shopping, and a Midland farmers market. The hotel is very beautiful and has two restaurants, one with outside seating. 

18. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

By Jennifer from FamilyCamping411

Grand Teton National Park  is a stunning place to visit any time of year, but Autumn is particularly spectacular for so many reasons.

From the beginning of September through mid-October, Mother Nature dips her brush in the bursting palette of vivid reds, burnt oranges, and neon yellows to create a dramatic backdrop for enjoying its majestic wildlife, wild recreation, and way smaller crowds

Historically, this striking color change peaks around the third week of September and lasts into early October, but it’s important to remember that there are numerous factors that greatly influence the development of coloration, including temperature, sunlight, and rainfall.

Local weather conditions like rainfall amounts and nighttime temperatures determine when leaves change color, so check the Grand Teton National Park Fall foliage reports frequently before you head out.

Discover the Teton’s color carpet of Fall on foot when you hike Swift Creek, then reward tired feet with a post-hike soak in the steamy waters of the Granite Hot Springs.

Or, head over to the south shore of Jenny Lake, one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, and join an easy-to-moderate, ranger-led, morning hike to Moose Ponds, then finish the day with a meandering canoe ride, camera in hand.

There are eight lodging options located within the Grand Teton National Park grounds, Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge offer all the amenities and all the views, but be aware that many are seasonal.

For more lodging options during the Fall months, head to Jackson Hole and find everything from Rustic Inn boutique cabins, and elegant minimalist luxury at Amangani, to affordable stylish hotels like the Anvil Hotel .

19. Boston, Massachusetts

By Tegan & Alex from Why Not Walk 

It’s no secret that visitors come to New England from all over the world each fall, seeking the ultimate “leaf-peeping” experience all over the region. If you’ve come to Boston , you’re in the right place.

If you’re staying in Boston proper, we recommend booking accommodations in the Back Bay or Fenway neighborhoods, so you don’t have to travel far to see all the sights. From here, it’s easy to start your day out with a visit to Copley Square. 

Don’t miss the two beautiful churches here and the Boston Public Library– definitely some of Boston’s most beautiful (and most Instagrammable) buildings. 

The Library’s Bates Room in particular serves major back-to-school vibes with its elegant lamps and old-school book collections– perfect for fall.

You can window-shop along Newbury Street before walking one block over to the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, where trees arch over the center pathway in all their autumn glory. 

For more fall colors, check out the Fens or any of the parks in the Emerald Necklace parks system, which are ablaze with color each autumn and are absolutely breathtaking. 

Next, take the green line or a ride-share to the North End (Haymarket stop.) Here, take in all the sights of Boston’s traditional Italian neighborhood. You can stay in the North End for lunch, choosing between its wealth of Italian eateries, or head downtown to Chinatown for dumplings or dim sum. 

Nearby Faneuil Hall and Beacon Hill are also gorgeous fall destinations, with their cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Don’t miss taking a few photos at Acorn Street!

In one of the afternoons, consider participating in a quintessentially New England fall activity: apple picking.

A short car or commuter rail ride away, breathe in the fresh country air as you pick your own apples, straight from the tree. There are numerous farms just outside Boston where you can do this, but we especially recommend Nashoba Valley Winery or Honeypot Hill Orchards .

While you’re there, don’t miss sampling apple cider donuts, hot cider, and caramel apples! Many orchards also offer wine tours, hayrides, and other treats to enjoy.

20. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee–North Carolina

By Corritta from It’s a Family Thing

The perfect US fall destination to take in everything that nature has to offer is the Great Smoky Mountains. The Smoky Mountains is for families , couples, and solo travelers.

The Greystone Lodge on the River is a great place to stay to have quick access to the park. 

The fall is the best time to visit the Smokies because it is less crowded, the trees are turning colors, there is wildlife, and the temperature is more pleasant. There are hikes for people of all skill levels from novices to experts.

The claim to fame for the smokies in the fall is the waterfalls. Seeing the waterfalls with the changing colors is phenomenal.

As if the Great Smoky Mountains National Park wasn’t a good enough reason to visit the Smokies in the fall, this is the time to enjoy festivals.

Starting in late September/ early October festival season kicks off in the areas near the Smokies. There is the Fall Harvest Festival, Dollywood Harvest Festival, Wears Valley Fall Festival, Oktoberfest, and several others. 

There is also the scary side of things. You can get your scary fix at the Gatlinburg Ghost Tours, The Mysterious Mansion, and Ripley’s Haunted Adventure. No matter what you decide to do you will not regret your time in the Smokies in the fall.

21. Aspen, Colorado

By Aswani from A Charming Escape

Aspen is famous for being a ski town but not many people know that it is also an amazing place to visit in the autumn to see fall colors.

Named after the beautiful Aspen trees, it is a great fall destination to visit and see the Aspen trees turn golden yellow. 

The best time to visit Aspen to see the fall colors during their peak is at the end of September and early October.

The closest international and popular airport for cheap airfares to Aspen is Denver International Airport.

Aspen is about 2 hours from Denver and can be reached via the scenic Independence Pass in the months of October or September. 

While in Aspen, visiting the Maroon Bells State Park is highly recommended. These twin peaks have some of the best fall colors in Aspen and the hikes are breathtaking.

Also, recommend walking around North Star Nature Preserve for more beautiful fall colors. 

Another interesting thing to do is take the gondola and visit Aspen Mountain for amazing views of the mountains. The St. Regis Aspen Resort and Aspen Meadows Resort are good options to stay in Aspen.

If the hotels in Aspen are fully booked or too expensive, check out the nearby village of Snowmass. 

22. Portland, Oregon

By Tiffany from The Stoke Fam

When it comes to USA fall getaways, we think Portland, OR, is one of the best options out there. Whether you prefer a trip to the city or an adventure in the outdoors, Portland delivers.

Portland is a popular jumping-off point for oceans, cities, mountains, and National Parks during the summer. However, once fall settles in, the crowds start to disperse, and you can really get to know the area. 

When you plan your stay, we recommend checking out some of the unique and memorable places to stay, such as The Benson Hotel , Mark Spencer Hotel , or The Tiny House Hotel .

Then, once you’ve settled in, we suggest planning a visit to The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island, watching a Trail Blazers basketball game, or attending the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta.

In addition, across the area, you’ll find tons of food trucks with delicious culinary options ranging from wood-fired pizza to Asian fusion to Argentinian and more.

But, if food trucks aren’t your thing, don’t worry! Portland also has plenty of options such as Nak Won (a Korean restaurant specializing in hand-pulled noodles), Le Pigeon (with French cuisine that repeatedly tops the best restaurant lists), and El Gaucho (an upscale steakhouse that delivers an exceptional experience with delicious food).

But, what we love most about the area in the fall are the many options for getting outdoors. In particular,  hiking near Portland is one of our favorite activities during the fall. With the summer crowds gone, the weather comfortable, and the trails less traveled, it’s the perfect time to take in the region’s beauty.

If you love the outdoors too, make a side trip to the Columbia River Gorge. Located just 48 km (30 miles) away from Portland, it is home to over 90 waterfalls, and lots of hiking and biking trails. This area provides a great opportunity to chase fall foliage!

23. Salt Lake City, Utah

By Christina from Travel2Next

Stroll down Main Street in Utah’s capital to enjoy a stunning combination of skyscrapers and yellow leaves. Salt Lake City is a terrific city to go to see easily accessible fall colors.

Places to go for fall foliage within the city are Liberty Park and Memory Grove Park for late-season autumn leaves and City Creek Canyon. 

For longer hikes and stunning autumn foliage that will knock your socks off, head to Millcreek Canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and Little Cottonwood Canyon.

One of the things to do in Salt Lake City is to stroll along Temple Street, starting from Temple Square, and admire 12 blocks of impressive architecture framed by autumn leaves.

Fall is also the time when there are many events to attend in Salt Lake City, such as Oktoberfest at Snowbird (August to October).

The Utah State Fair in September is excellent for fun events, and local treats, the Urban Arts Festival for street art and dancing, and the Squatters Beer Festival has been running for 30 years! 

The Salt Lake Farmers Market (June to October) is where you can connect directly with farmers and producers, and taste fresh fruit, pies, jams, and other local produce.

Choose a hotel in the city center, like the Hilton Salt Lake City Center and Salt Lake City Marriott City Center so that you can walk to many of the events and sites.

Insider Travel Tips: From Salt Lake City, drive to the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway – a 20-mile drive through the rugged alpine canyons. 

24. Appleton, Wisconsin

By Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Appleton has no shortage of activities for every season, from mopping up the summer sun to hitting the trails during lively autumn. Accordingly, if you want to travel to the US for a fall, visiting Appleton is highly recommended. 

Situated in Wisconsin, the city of Appleton is the heart of the Fox River Valley. The small town assures its visitors to present a fantastic and perfect spot for a fall getaway, finished off with a bright scene everywhere.

It’s more of a city featuring exclusive performing art, shopping, and dining. So, encounter everything this area offers during fall — from attractions and activities to fairs and festivals; there’s something here for everybody!

There are various things to do here, including touring Broadway shows or live concerts at the art center or the Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve.

Don’t forget to visit the world’s first residence-turned-Hearthstone historic house museum during your trip. Enjoy Ice-skating and sledding in the winter, alongside the butterfly gardens of Wisconsin.

Likewise, some of the best fall festivals in Wisconsin that occur every year are: Sister Bay fall fest, Eagle river cranberry fest, Madeline Island fall fest, Al and Al’s Oktoberfest Sheboygan, etc

Moreover, there are several best hotels or accommodations in Appleton, like- Rodeway Inn , Copperleaf Boutique Hotel & Spa , Country Inn & Suites by Radisson , and more. 

25. St Louis, Missouri

By Tiffany from Mommy And Me Travels

St Louis, MO (STL) is the gateway between the East and the West United States.  The STL Arch is the iconic figure on the Mississippi River that signifies the route between the two sides of the USA. 

During your visit, take a trip to the top of the Arch and gleam upon the city’s beauty with all of the bustling fall activities and colors that St Louis has to offer.  

No trip to St Louis in the fall is complete without a visit to one of the many festivals.  You’ll be in for a treat at the International Foodfest, watch the sky light up at the Balloon Glow, and/or learn about Japanese history at the Japanese Fest around the Botanical Gardens, and so many many more. 

There is definitely something special and unique for everyone to experience at one of the fall fests in STL.  

Looking for the perfect spot to call home while you explore STL? The Hilton – Curio Collection at Union Station is that perfect spot.  This centrally located location will check all the boxes of what you are looking for in a hotel.

Traveling with your loved one or family, St Louis is a definite must-visit during the fall for everyone looking for a good time in a big city with a small city vibe.

26. Door County, Wisconsin

Located on the east coast of Lake Michigan, Door County offers miles and miles of stunning coastline with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy nature.

The fall months in Door County are especially beautiful because of all the foliage changes that take place. Plus the waterfront area is especially lovely with its colorful trees lining the shoreline. 

Late September to mid October is perfect to chase fall colors but remember to pack a few layers for chilly nights. 

There are plenty of restaurants and shops in the towns that you can visit as well during your stay in Door County. You will also find a lot of orchards and farm markets here to buy fall-related souvenirs and gifts. 

For those who like to be active outdoors, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Hiking and biking trails offer plenty of opportunities to explore the county, and the autumn weather makes it a great time for water sports on Lake Michigan.

Read: Best Airbnb in Wisconsin

27. Disneyland 

By Nancy from Aroundtheworldattheweekend

Nowhere in the world decorates for the seasons like Disneyland and we think their fall decorations might be my favorite ever.

The autumnal and Halloween vibe permeates throughout the park and the hotels and ranges from kitschy trick-or-treat decorations to the fall bouquets of your dreams.

Disney pulls out the stops for its themed events too and you can visit the Haunted Mansion as it’s taken over by the Nightmare Before Christmas crew or you can meet Mickey Mouse all dressed up for trick and treating. 

One favorite moment is when you first enter the Magic Kingdom to see an amazing fall display of uniquely carved pumpkins – literally hundreds of them!

 Both of the Disney Parks are filled with spooky surprises and autumnal delights around every corner, with almost every part of the property having a fall makeover. Even the hotel lobbies are bursting with autumnal displays.

Disney also creates special edible treats for the occasion and you can sink your teeth into caramel apples with mouse ears and pumpkin flavor cupcakes.

Disney is silly, fun, and themed to perfection. It’s the perfect place to head to to get excited about the Autumn! Have fun.

FAQ: Best fall destinations in the USA

National Parks are the best for relaxing fall vacations. Our top picks include –  Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming) Acadia National Park (Maine) Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona) Zion National Park (Utah)

Here are some of the popular ones: Mohonk Mountain House (NY) Bungalows Key Largo (Florida) Castle Hot Springs (Arizona) Miraval Resorts & Spas (Arizona)

Las Vegas (Nevada) Napa Valley (California) Acadia National Park (Maine) Zion National Park (Utah) Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona) Savannah (Georgia) Catskills (NY)

Acadia National Park (Maine) Stowe (Vermont) Finger Lakes (NY) Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) Lake Placid (NY) Blue Ridge Mountains (North Carolina)

Acadia National Park (Maine) Stowe (Vermont) Albuquerque (New Mexico) Blue Ridge Mountains (North Carolina) Joshua Tree National Park (California) Maui (Hawaii) Las Vegas (Nevada) San Diego (Calfiornia)

So that’s a wrap! These are the coolest places to enjoy a fall getaway in the USA. Where are you heading to?

USA Resources:

• USA in Winter guide – Top winter destinations in the USA
• Romantic Cities in the USA – Perfect destinations to escape with your sweetheart in the USA
• East Coast – Getaways in the USA East Coast
• West Coast – Getaways in the USA West Coast
• San Francisco Guide – Read our San Francisco travel Itinerary
• SF Road Trip Ideas – Embark on these San Francisco Road trips
• Beach Towns in California – Coastal cities & towns in California
• Las Vegas Weekend Trip – Read our 3-day itinerary to Las Vegas and couples guide plus LV Hotels Guide
• Yellowstone National Park – Bucket list ideas for Yellowstone

Pin: 27 Best USA Fall destinations for your bucket list

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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30 fun fall weekend getaways.

Plan an idyllic escape to revel in fall's colorful splendor.

(Getty Images) |

Plan a quick fall trip and recharge in these top-notch destinations.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sedona, Arizona

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Destin, Florida

Aspen, Colorado

New York City

Nashville, Tennessee

Laconia, New Hampshire

Shenandoah National Park

Tulum, Mexico

Washington, D.C.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Panama City Beach, Florida

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Mazatlán, Mexico

The Catskills, New York

Bar Harbor, Maine

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Duluth, Minnesota

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Park City, Utah

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

North Fork, New York

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Travel Information

11 best fall destinations in the us: autumn trip ideas.

Fall is the ultimate time to travel through various cities and states to experience a wide network of exciting activities, from festivals to outdoor activities.

Unsure how to find these foliage-covered terrains that will provide an unforgettable getaway? This list offers some of the best places to visit in the fall in the USA.

» Also check out the 22 Best Winter Vacations in the United States.

» Looking for more travel inspiration in the United States ? See our U.S. Summer Vacation Ideas and 12 U.S. National Parks to Visit . Here are a few more fabulous U.S. Cities to visit .

Table of Contents

U.S. Fall Vacation Ideas – Best Places To Visit

As many regions consider fall to be an off-season for tourists, this time period is the perfect season for visitors to experience various parts of the US with lower hotel rates. Take a look at a few fall vacations in the USA to take on your next trip:

Yes, the entire state. I know it’s large and there’s lots of area to cover here, but autumn is one of the cheapest times to visit this Atlantic Coast gem. The off-season provides more affordable accommodation and fewer lines at major attractions. The weather is good and the fall foliage is bursting around you.

Maine showcases some of the best fall foliage in the United States. For that reason, a fall foliage tour through Maine is a fantastic idea. You can drive yourself around, but why not take a fall foliage train tour, which is a unique way to take in the colors of fall. The Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad offers several options or in Portland take the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co.  

Along the coast, be sure to hit up these activities that are too crowded in summer:

• Lobster rolls in Kennebunk
• Mount Battie in Camden
• Marginal Way in Ogunquit
• Whale watching in Bar Harbor
• Hiking the various trails of Tumbledown Mountain and Mount Kineo State Park

Top Fall Activity: The ultimate festival for foodies, Harvest on the Harbor in Portland is the place to go for beer and oysters in Maine. Harvest on the Harbor usually occurs in early November.

Tours you might enjoy:

• Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour in Portland, Maine
• Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charters in Maine
• Portland, Maine Lighthouse Tour -2 hour Land Tour

2. Zion National Park, Utah

With frosty weather in winter, dangerous climbing conditions in spring, and scorching temperatures in summer, fall is the perfect time to visit Zion National Park. During fall, average temperatures in Zion range from low 40s to mid 70s.

Visiting Zion in fall is like stepping into a vivid painting. The colors are stunning and the sunlight isn’t so harsh, so the contrasts between the trees and the rocks is more vibrant. You can take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive through the park or head out onto some of the trails like Watchman Trail, Cable Mountain and Taylor Creek in Kolob Canyon.

Activities like horseback riding, canyoneering, and zip lining can all be more enjoyable in the fall in Zion and you won’t be competing with all the other visitors.

Top Fall Activity: With cooler temperatures after the summer heat, a private tour of Slot Canyon is an epic adventure you won’t want to miss.

• Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon UTV Adventure (Private)
• Peekaboo Sandboarding UTV Adventure (Private)
• East Zion Experiences Ultimate Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Adventure

3. Williamsburg, Virginia

An enduring piece of US history, the city of Williamsburg will make you feel like you’ve entered a different time period. Fall in Williamsburg is one of the best times to visit because of fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and beautiful fall foliage.

In the fall, you can take plan all of those outdoor activities you don’t want to do in the heat of summer, like a picnic, hiking, and bike riding. You can go on a ghost tour through Colonial Williamsburg, go pumpkin picking at Holly Fork Farm , or enjoy its wide variety of hiking routes like Lookout Tower Trail or Jamestown Island Trail.

Top Fall Activity: The Yorktown market days in Williamsburg is a fun way to peruse the local produce and vendors of the city. In October, the market day fall festival takes place with various festive treats, such as caramel apples.

• Jamestown Settlement American Revolution Museum 7-Day Ticket
• Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia

4. Albuquerque, New Mexico

When looking for the perfect fall destination to visit, the first thing that comes to mind is a nice cool temperature with perhaps a little chill in the air. Albuquerque fits that bill with its famous Indian summer.

Albuquerque has an abundance of fall activities to enjoy. Go pumpkin picking at McCall’s , go on a ghost tour of Old Town, or visit the Corrales Harvest Festival , a two day event in September with live music, arts & crafts shows, a pet parade, hay rides, food tasting, and a beer garden. 

Top Fall Activity: The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in early October is the biggest hot air balloon festival in the US and is an absolute must-see experience.

• Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
• Breaking Bad RV Tours
• ABQ Beer Tour: A Curated Craft Beer Experience in the Land of Enchantment

5. Napa Valley, California

One of the best times to visit Napa Valley is during fall, when the harvest season commences (August to early November). This destination is known for its top-class wineries and wines and fall is a rare opportunity to see the grape picking and wine making in action. Learn more about the harvest .

The vines begin to change colors in the vineyards as well, painting the entire region in yellows and reds. It’s a sight you must see. The temperature in fall still hovers around 80 degrees, but with cooler nights that make it very pleasant.

Attend any number of harvest festivals and events, like the Rutherford Hill’s Barn Bash and the Harvest Ball in St Helena, or the Harvest Festival in Yountville in September.

• Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley
• Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour

6. Dallas, Texas

Fall is a spirited time to visit Dallas, Texas, from the harvest festivals to the kick-off of football season. From the simple pleasures of hayrides to the smile-inducing enjoyment of state fairs, this city knows how to celebrate fall to the fullest.

One of the biggest fall events is the  State Fair of Texas that’s open from end of September to October. Remember, everything’s bigger in Texas and so is this fair!

Head to Howell Farms in Arlington to find a walking path filled with over 3,000 hand-carved pumpkins in displayed along a half-mile path. For something a little more frightful, visit Dark Hour Haunted House, a 30,000-square-foot house of horrors located in Plano.

Top Fall Activity: Autumn at the Arboretum in Dallas is a great way to fall head-over-heels for this season’s merriment as the coveted ‘pumpkin village’ returns. The location is known to change from time to time, so be sure to do some research beforehand.

• JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House
• Dallas’ Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket
• Half-Day Best of Fort Worth Historical Tour with Transportation from Dallas

7. San Diego, California

Even though San Diego doesn’t experience a fall season like many of the other places on this list, there are many reasons to head there in the fall. Fall in San Diego is a time to enjoy mild weather, uncrowded beaches, a variety of festivals, Halloween celebrations, and plenty of outdoor activities.

One of the biggest perks for families visiting San Diego in fall is Kids Free San Diego. For the whole month of October, kids get free admission to 85+ museums, theme parks, tours, and attractions. If you’ve been wondering how to make your vacation a little more affordable, this is a great way to start.

Top Fall Activity: Pacific BeachFest in early October is a festival that is a celebration of beach-going activities. From volleyball to a fish taco contest, you’re in for a treat.

• San Diego Harbor Cruise
• San Diego Whale Watching Cruise
• Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego

8. Big Sur, California

With dazzling redwoods and waterfalls, Big Sur promises a fall vacation in some of the most captivating natural landscape. The fall foliage in Big Sur is some of the best in the state, albeit not nearly as dramatic as on the East Coast. The scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, and waterfalls are all at their best in the fall months, from September to November.

Activities such as hiking and backpacking, highway and trail bicycling, fishing, and hot springs are in full swing still, before the end of the season, and camping is at its best, when you can enjoy the cool fall nights.

This season is also when various animals, such as humpback whales, are most active — so wildlife watching is bound to entice nature lovers.

Top Fall Activity: The best way to enjoy these outdoor splendors is by going on a camping adventure in this region’s national parks .

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the best times to visit New Orleans is in the fall, from October to November. These months offer the best sightseeing weather and less crowds, along with the spirit of the season with great festivals taking place, like the National Fried Chicken Fest , Voodoo Music + Arts Experience , and the Boudin, Bourbon, and Beer .

If you’re not keen to visit New Orleans in the height of the summer heat and humidity, when it only feels good to be inside an air conditioned building, fall is your chance to get outside and see more of what the area has to offer.

New Orleans is the place to be when the Halloween spirit emerges. While spooky tours and excursions are a no-brainer, you’ll also be able to experience the official oyster season in all its shucking glory.

Top Fall Activity: A Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, & Vampire tour will be sure to brew up a hair-raising experience on Halloween.

• New Orleans Airboat Ride
• New Orleans City Tour: Katrina, Garden District, French Quarter & Cemetery
• New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option

10. Connecticut

A top contender for the best fall vacation spot in the U.S., Connecticut knows how to embrace the cozy pleasures of what this season brings.

From apple picking to leaf peeping, fall in Connecticut is as close to perfect as you can get! You can easily spend a fall weekend going to festivals or enjoying the fall produce at a local farm. The only issue will be deciding where to go. Practically the entire state is awash in red, yellow, and orange.

Norfolk  is one of the first towns to get fall colors. There are three state parks at which to view the leaves. At Haystack Mountain State Park, you can reach the top of the mountain by driving and hiking to the top, where your reward is a 360-degree stunning views of the Berkshires, New York, and the Green Mountains.

Campbell Falls is another not-to-be-missed fall hike. Dennis Hill is another great location for leaf spotting. The pavilion at the top offers spectacular views of 3 states. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the spectacular view. 

Top Fall Activity: Hit the road and pick a route to drive along, like Route 169, to experience the changing colors in full throttle.

• Mystic Seaport Museum Adventure

11. Grand Canyon, Arizona

One of the most popular attractions in the country, the Grand Canyon is sure to top any USA bucket list. The autumn season is the perfect time to make a trip to this natural phenomenon, as this generally means fewer crowds and cooler days.

Fall is a great time to hike the South Rim’s Inner Canyon trails due to milder temperatures and reduced crowds. There is also more wildlife present for the same reasons as mentioned above. And though it’s not a great place for fall foliage, there are some brighter colors along the trail to enjoy.

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds also allow the animals to be out, so you’ll see more wildlife, and you’ll pay a lot less for your hotel rooms too. Win – win.

Top Fall Activity: Make your way to the North Rim for a spectacular view of the canyon bathed in an auburn light when the sun sets on this fall getaway. Be sure to plan your trip to this attraction.

• 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona
• Arizona Highlights – Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell Flight with River Rafting

When To Travel To These Fall Destinations

The fall, or autumn, season spans from September to November in the US. If you’re looking to enjoy the autumn foliage, you’ll want to go from late September to early October, although the exact dates can’t be predicted, and they vary based on where you’re going – from east to west.

The fall is also a time for festivals in the U.S. and many states take advantage of the lower temperatures to hold their state fairs and outdoor festivals. Here are some key events to look out for on your trip to the various awesome places in the USA :

• Labor Day (1st Monday in September) – This holiday marks the end of summer and the return to school for the kids, so it’s often celebrated with a final big trip, a weekend of camping, or at the very least a big BBQ and party in the backyard.
• Halloween (31 October) – While not a federal holiday, Halloween is often treated as one, and it tends to define the whole of October, with an abundance of pumpkin picking, haunted houses, hay rides, and fall activities to keep you busy.
• Thanksgiving (26 November) – If you’re from the U.S., you’ve been to dozens of Thanksgiving dinners, but if you’ve never celebrated this holiday, you should definitely find a family to attach yourself to, so you can get your turkey eating on.

Final Thoughts on the Best Fall Destinations in the US

What would an awe-inspiring autumn vacation be without the crisp morning air that fuels the fire of a day filled with epic outdoor adventures? Whether you’re after a pumpkin picking excursion or looking to enjoy a fun Halloween event, this season in the USA will have you covered.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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The 20 Best Fall Foliage Trips in the U.S.

• Travel News
• National Parks

Leaf viewing is one of the easiest (and least expensive) ways to experience America’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Squelching temps and sneaky new Covid-19 variants plagued the summer travel season with bummer after sweaty-mask-wearing bummer. But the beauty of seasons is that they change, and the jewel-toned colors that seem to brighten and glisten as summer turns to fall are the welcome change we all need this year.

This leaf-peeping season, take a fall foliage getaway that will refresh your spirits and feed your sweater-weather-loving soul. From the mountain maples in New England to the sassafras trees that shade the Blue Ridge Parkway, check your destination’s Covid-19 protocols , and then check out these stunning fall foliage trips around the U.S.

Top Picks for You

Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway, Utah

The drive from   Park City   to   Midway   in the   Heber Valley   takes less than one hour by car, but during autumn, expect to spend longer to make the most of the numerous scenic turnouts and photo ops along the way. Fiery red oak trees and golden aspens line the route along this scenic mountain pass, where an almost 9,700-foot elevation puts travelers at the ideal viewpoint above the verdant alpine meadows and hot pink hues found in   Wasatch Mountain State Park .

When to Go:   The leaves begin changing colors in September, but they are at their best in late September through early October along this scenic mountain pass.

Where to Stay:   The   Waldorf Astoria Park City   is set among more than 7,300 acres of scenic mountain terrain. Take in the cool mountain air along the more than 300 trails that wind through the resort’s acreage or warm up by, the more than 300-year-old marble fireplace inside this grand alpine lodge.

The White Mountains Trail, New Hampshire

This 100-mile scenic byway rounds around   New Hampshire ’s Presidential Mountain Range, where covered bridges and cider stands guide passengers through the region’s festival of fall colors. Brilliantly red mountain maples and golden beech trees highlight the base of Mount Washington, where a quick climb up the historic   Mount Washington Auto Road   puts travelers at the summit of the impressive 6,288-foot mountain to take in a birds-eye view of the wilderness below.

When to Go : The fall foliage season is short in the   White Mountains   of New Hampshire, where September marks the beginning of the leaf-peeping season, and mid-October begins the transition to the wintry season that earned these mountains their name.

Where to Stay : The   Omni Mount Washington Hotel ’s ideal location within the White Mountains has attracted presidents, celebrities, and poets throughout its storied history, but its fall when this grand dame hotel fills with leaf peepers seeking the best views of the region. Suites with private balconies or patios are available for taking in the mountain views, but the ultimate on-resort experience is on the eight-passenger Bretton Woods Skyway Gondola that carts guests to the Rosebrook Lodge for a scenic 12-minute ride above the fall foliage.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Aspen, colorado.

When a world-famous town is named after a tree, you know it must be an extraordinary place.  Aspen  leaves turn a rich yellow hue in the fall and quite literally shimmer in the breeze when the sun hits them. The golden tones of aspens in autumn make a picture-perfect contrast with the evergreens and craggy mountain peaks. While Aspen’s ritzy ski resort town is the place to   see and be seen   in the winter, it mellows during the autumn months.

When to Go:  Aspen season is short. It kicks in during mid-September and peaks at the end of the month. The first week of October offers some decent viewing, but beyond that, there will be more leaves on the ground than on the trees.

Where to Stay:   The  W Aspen   was the first new hotel to open in 25 years when it opened its doors in 2019 at the base of Aspen Mountain. The ski-in, ski-out hotel offers some of the best views in the city, where rooftop firepits warm guests as the cool mountain air brings the scents of fall to the top of this property, including 88 guestrooms, four WOW suites, and one Extreme WOW suite.  

The Catskills, New York 

The 700,000 acres in southeastern New York known as  the Catskills  are home to six major river systems, 98 mountain peaks (35 of which are over 3,500 feet), and the famed   Woodstock festival . A year-round destination, the Catskills are at their most vibrant in the fall when yellows, oranges, and reds electrify the thickly wooded hillsides. Locals and visitors alike savor the fall harvest when many of the region’s historic villages host festivals and craft fairs alongside the bountiful farmer’s markets and pick-your-own orchards.

When to Go:  The last two weeks in September through mid to late October are prime time for fall foliage in the Catskills, but the second week of October is considered peak leaf-peeping season.

Where to Stay:   The Catskills are fabled for their charming B&Bs, but the 24 luxury cabins at   Piaule   have guests sleeping among the trees themselves. Set among 50 acres of wooded forest, the fragrant wooden cabins feature sliding glass walls that open to the natural setting beyond, while posh linens and furnishings from the Piaule housewares line keep the setting cozy.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

The  Blue Ridge Parkway ’s winding path leads travelers along a scenic byway along the Blue Ridge Mountains, stretching 469 miles between  Shenandoah National Park  and the  Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Once the weather begins to cool in the fall, the road ignites in an intense palate of bright yellow, vibrant red, and brilliant orange as the dogwoods, sassafras, and red maples begin to change hues. Many towns along the way offer quaint spots to stop for photo ops, but the charming town of  Asheville  offers a bigger fall experience for visitors, with   nearby apple orchards, countless festivals, and great fall hiking options  up to Looking Glass Falls and Rainbow Falls.

When to Go : Late September ushers in the first inklings of fall, but the region is enflamed in colors as it peaks in mid to late October.

Where to Stay : The rooms and suites at the  Hyatt Place Asheville Downtown  provide some of the best views of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the city. For the ultimate peeping point, head to the eighth floor to the hotel’s speakeasy-style rooftop bar to grab a local craft brew and sit back to watch the colors change even more dramatically as the sun goes down.

Related:  10 Reasons to Visit the Shenandoah Valley This Fall

Acadia National Park, Maine

Pristine inland lakes and craggy coastlines set the stage for the brilliant fall performance that happens each year in Acadia National Park. Five scenic byways run through the region, but it’s the   Schoodic National Scenic Byway   that offers the most quintessential Maine scenery. The route winds through 27 miles of coastline, passing through quaint   fishing villages and lighthouses   among the scarlet-hued blueberry barrens and beneath colorful canopies of maple, birch, and poplar trees.

When to Go : The fall colors begin their grand transformations in late September, but it’s not until the first and second weeks in October that the colors shine in full force across   Acadia National Park .

Where to Stay : Located just minutes from the scenic Acadia National Park Loop Road,   Terramor Outdoor Resort ’s luxurious nature experiences are unrivaled. Guests can choose from five tent types within the 60-acre resort, where days are spent soaking in the natural beauty by hiking or kayaking, and evenings are spent stargazing beneath the vast night sky—where the Milky Way shines the brightest it does anywhere east of the Mississippi.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon 

Cut into the   Cascade Mountains   and forming a natural border between southern Washington and northern Oregon, the 85-mile  Columbia River Gorge  is already a sublime sight. Come fall, it’s absolutely breathtaking when the firs, cottonwoods, big-leaf maples, Oregon ash, and twisted pines start to show their colors. Visitors can choose to take in the golden and bronze hues while driving along the Columbia River, hiking various trails, or rafting and kayaking down the river.

When to Go:  The earliest leaf changes can be seen in early September, but it’s not until mid-to-late October when the colors of fall are on full display in the Columbia River Gorge,

Where to Stay:  The historic  Columbia Gorge Hotel  has the hands-down best views of the gorge, including the 207-foot Wah Gwin Gwin waterfall, while the   Society Hotel Bingen   offers a lesson in luxury inside its renovated schoolhouse halls.

Related :   Need more suggestions of where to stay? We’ve got a whole list.

Green Mountain Byway, Vermont 

The maple, birch, and beech trees lining this 71-mile corridor bisecting  Vermont  put on one of New England’s most dazzling displays of color. The drive from quaint Waterbury, home of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, to  Stowe , one of the most famous ski resorts in the east, passes through two state forests and three state parks. In Stowe, the ski area gondola offers a bird’s-eye view of the forested slopes and easy access to hiking.

When to Go:  The  northern Vermont  leaf observation season begins the second week of September and peaks the first week in October.

Where to Stay:  In Stowe, the  Topnotch Resort  sits on 120 acres overlooking Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest mountain at 4,393 feet. An impressive trail system surrounds the property, perfect for   hiking and horseback riding .

Indianapolis, Indiana

It doesn’t take a trip outside the city limits of   Indianapolis   to enjoy the beauty and bounty of Indiana’s boldest fall colors. Indy is home to one of the largest city parks, and a series of   urban trails   that pass over and beside rivers, greenways, and state parks makes it possible to explore the fall colors by foot, on wheels, or even up in the air.   Zipline   through the fall trees themselves at Eagle Creek Park, canoe past vibrant reds and yellows along the White River, or   bike   beneath the tree canopy of Monon Trail to get immersed in the seasonal displays throughout the city.

When to Go : The season begins in mid-late September and continues through the end of November, peaking in mid-October when the colors are in full force.

Where to Stay : The   Hotel Broad Ripple   is set amongst mature trees at the base of the Monon Trailhead. Many of the 19 rooms at this boutique hotel have balconies overlooking the tree-lined trail and the foliage flanking White River.

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Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, New Mexico 

The dazzling 83-mile loop starting and ending in  Taos  has become a fall foliage pilgrimage for aspen aficionados. Here, the aspens turn not only yellow but also dark orange. The route encircles 13,161-foot Wheeler Peak,  New Mexico ’s highest point, and the mesas and mountain vistas offer a unique southwestern perspective on autumn color. While aspens steal the show, there are also purple cinquefoil and cottonwoods in fiery shades ranging from bright red to yellow.

When to Go:  Late September to early October offers the most vibrant colors along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Where to Stay:  A romantic B&B in Taos with spectacular mountain views is  Hacienda del Sol , which features 12 southwestern-style rooms in four adobe buildings, including kiva fireplaces and made-from-scratch gourmet breakfasts.

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania 

The covered bridges, rolling hills, and picturesque small towns were enough to inspire artists and architects like  Frank Lloyd Wright  over the years. The region is home to four Frank Llyod Wright houses and countless other stunning structures, but the architecture of the highlands is only part of the draw once the fall season sets in.  Pennsylvania  boasts a longer and more varied fall foliage season than any other state in America, and it’s here that harvest festivals and autumn wine tastings are set among a backdrop of bright reds, oranges, and yellows from the changing dogwoods, black gums, and scarlet oaks.

When to Go : The leaves begin their changes in mid-September but will hit their peak colors around mid-October.

Where to Stay : Whether you arrive by car or by air (the resort has its own airstrip on the property), the first glimpses you get of the  Nemacolin Woodlands Resort  will take your breath away. During fall, this 2,000-acre resort becomes a haven for luxuriating among the autumn leaves, whether with a rejuvenating treatment at the Woodlands Spa and Holistic Healing Center or with a glass of wine from Pennsylvania’s largest private wine cellar.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan 

Michigan ’s state forest system is one of the largest in the U.S., encompassing nearly 4 million acres. Take your pick from one (or more) of the Upper Peninsula’s 20-plus forested state parks. Ash, aspen, beech, birch, maple, oak, sycamore, and tamarack are the stars of this densely forested peninsula sandwiched between three Great Lakes. The tranquil waters, ranging in color from azure to navy, visually enhance (and reflect) the trees’ already brilliant fall colors.

When to Go:  The best time to take in the fall colors of the Upper Peninsula is mid-September to mid-October, with the peak happening in early October.

Where to Stay:  The ferry to Mackinac Island is almost a time machine back to a time when horses and bicycles provided the means for transportation. No cars are allowed on this idyllic island, so guests of the island’s   Grand Hotel   are transported via horse-drawn carriages from the ferry docks directly to the impressive 660-foot-long porch. Spend the afternoon playing lawn games among the fall colors or settle into a rocking chair with a cocktail to watch the sunset from the hotel’s birds-eye perch over the island.  

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Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri 

Central  Missouri ’s popular summertime lake getaway becomes even better in the fall when the crowds disperse, and the temperatures pleasantly drop into the sixties. The surrounding Ozark Hills are at their most scenic come fall when the forests ignite in shades of scarlet, gold, mahogany, and russet. Experience the color explosion while hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding at Missouri’s largest state park. Or take in the fall foliage on a yacht, at the wineries, during a round at one of the lake’s championship golf courses, or on a twenty-five-mile scenic drive.

When to Go:  The last two weeks of October are prime time for leaf-peeping at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Where to Stay:   Lake of the Ozarks State Park  offers more than a 100 campsites open year-round and a few rustic outpost cabins, each equipped with tables, chairs, wood-burning stoves, and sleeping accommodations. Central restrooms and showers are within walking distance.

Glacier National Park, Montana 

Glacier National Park  is a dream fall foliage destination for the ruggedly self-sufficient. By the end of September, many of the park’s concessions have closed for the season, guests have gone home, and you pretty much have the entire park to yourself. This is one of the best places to see larch trees—deciduous conifers that turn bright gold in the fall before losing their needles. Yellow larch intermingled with evergreens set against the backdrop of the massive snow-covered peaks of the Continental Divide make for perhaps the most dramatic autumn scene in the U.S. Plus, wildlife abounds, with elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and bears making their preparations for winter.

When to Go:  Larch trees change color in mid-October. All the other trees—including maple, aspen, birch, cottonwood, and huckleberry—turn between early and late September.

Where to Stay:  Most of the area’s notable properties close by late September. The comfortable  Grouse Mountain Lodge , located 25 miles away in  Whitefish , is open all four seasons and offers exceptional on-site dining.

When to Go:   Larch trees change color in mid-October. Everything else—maple, aspen, birch, cottonwood, and huckleberry—turn between early- and late-September.

Where to Stay:   Most of the area’s notable properties close by late-September. The comfortable   Grouse Mountain Lodge , located 25 miles away in   Whitefish , is open all four seasons and offers exceptional on-site dining.

Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, Massachusetts

Stunning displays of fall color greet visitors driving along the   Essex Coastal Scenic Byway , but it’s the journey through coastal communities and porches prettified with pumpkins that sets the backdrop for this memorable drive. This 90-mile route stretches between Salisbury and Lynn, passing through hemlock groves, magnolia swamps, and beech trees as it winds past Gilded-Age mansions and First Period houses. Unlike the dense forests of the   Berkshires , this coastal byway fall foliage hangs on a bit longer, offering colorful scenery well through October.

When to Go : The coastal region of Massachusetts generally peaks around the second and third weeks of October, but the fall colors will linger through the end of the month.

Where to Stay : The town of   Salem   is synonymous with autumn activity (namely Halloween), and the   Daniels House B&B   provides a cozy respite for basking in the fall colors and New England charm of this historic town. Marked as one of the oldest B&Bs in the nation, the Daniels House was recently restored and renovated to offer four rooms with varying personalities.

Highland Scenic Highway, West Virginia

This curvy drive winds through the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia’s Pocahontas County. The highway spans 43 miles of scenic vistas, passing by groves of maple trees and towering oak trees between the towns of Richwood and Marlinton. Expect to get out to explore the Falls of Hills Creek and the Cranberry Glades, but four easy-to-access overlooks make it easy to step out and take in the glory of the Allegheny Highlands during autumn.

When to Go:   The colors of West Virginia’s fall foliage tend to peak in mid-to-late October, although some of the maples begin changing in late September.

Where to Stay:   Cozy up at the Elk River Inn & Cabins in nearby Slaty Fork. There are eight guest rooms in the main inn and four cabins for rent that are set among the trees. The inn even offers fly fishing guides to help guests get the most out of their experience among the nearby rivers that flow through West Virginia.

Adirondack Park, New York State

The park covers a fifth of the entire state and is home to one of the longest fall foliage viewing seasons in the entire country. The leaves begin to turn in late September in the parts of the park —including the regions around Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake—and continue to spread through the park until reaching the Adirondack Coast and Lake Champlain in late October. Along with vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges from the variety of maple, cherry, and birch trees, visitors will find corn mazes, apple picking, and other iconic fall experiences set among the stunning multi-colored landscape.

When to Go:   The leaves begin to change starting in late September and depending upon where you are in the six-million acres that make up this expansive park, you could still be seeing vibrant colors through the end of October.

Where to Stay:   The Adirondack chairs set up along the shores of Lake Placid at the Whiteface Lodge are coveted spots during the fall season because of the reflections of fall colors glittering across the calm waters. The lodge features hand-milled timber and rustic luxury at its finest, with suites to sleep anywhere from one to 12 guests.

Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Idaho

Eastern Idaho has much to discover, especially during the cooler months of fall, but this one 28.7-mile loop gives new meaning to undiscovered beauty. Sure, you’ll likely pass lines of cars eager to catch the golden hews that glimmer through the dense evergreens, but you’ll also see two of the last undisturbed waterfalls in the West, the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. Unlike other falls that have been tapped out for more practical purposes (i.e., irrigation, hydroelectricity, etc.), these falls are untouched and flow wildly among their pristine settings. Find a quiet spot to pull over during this short hour-long drive, and you’ll be alone with the rustle of quaking aspens and the rushing of crystal river water.  

When to Go:   If you can hold off until mid-October, you’ll be rewarded with the most vibrant colors of the season, although leaves start changing as early as the first of October and generally can last until the middle of November.

Where to Stay:   Yellowstone National Park is just a short drive East, but for the chance to sleep steps from the Snake River (one of the top-rated fly fishing rivers in the U.S.), you’ll need to book a suite or a cabin at the Angler’s Lodge in Island Park, Idaho. The cabins have a country chill vibe, but the private Jacuzzis are piping hot.

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Old Frankfort Pike Road, Lexington, Kentucky

A quick trip to Lexington itself could suffice to satisfy your fall foliage cravings. This is a place where rugged landscapes like Raven Run Nature Sanctuary meet with centuries-old mansions and pristinely manicured horse farms. Plan to take it slowly on two wheels or four as you discover Kentucky’s Old Frankfort Pike Road. Known best as “Thoroughbred Alley,” this 16.9-mile stretch links Lexington to Frankfort with tree-canopy-covered roads passing by thoroughbred farm after thoroughbred farm. The sugar maples, orange osage, and dogwood trees make the landscape even more vibrant in fall as the leaves overhead change to yellow, crimson, and burnt orange. Although the drive is short, the pastoral portraits you’ll encounter on this breathtaking drive will likely change how you envision fall forever.

When to Go:   Early September brings the first glimmers of fall, but you’ll want to hold off until mid or even late October to get the full fall experience throughout Lexington.

Where to Stay:   Although it’s just 20 minutes out of the city, the Kentucky Castle will transport you to a European countryside estate, complete with castle accommodations and an actual apiary. There are no less than 15 accommodation options at the fairytale-esque castle, where a farm-to-table restaurant, a full-service spa (lavender treatments from plants grown onsite), and countless outdoor experiences (i.e., goat yoga, autumn picnics, equine meditations, etc.) await guests looking to soak in the 110-acres of regal grounds.

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Arkansas Scenic Byway 7, Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Part of the beauty of this scenic byway (aside from its already natural beauty, of course) is that the sharp curves and winding corners force travelers to slow down and take in the absolutely stunning scenery. As the leaves change for fall, the landscape becomes more like a Thomas Kincaid painting, as the light bends and bounces off the sparkling rivers to highlight the reds, greens, oranges, and golden hews of the Ozark National Forest. This Arkansan road flows for 290 miles alongside the Arkansas River through both the Ozark and the Ouachita mountain ranges, starting in El Dorado and ending farther North in Harrison. Keep an eye out for Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs and the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks in Jasper as you pass by river birch, maple, and oak trees in varying shades of gold and red.

When to Go:   The leaves begin to turn in the Ozark sections of this byway in early October (peaking in late October), but it isn’t until mid-November that the leaves hit their peak vibrancy in the southern and eastern portions of the route.

Where to Stay:   The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Eureka Springs shines in the fall months, partly because it’s one of the most haunted hotels in America but mainly because the fall foliage surrounding this historic hotel wraps the place in a virtual autumnal blanket. Gourds line the driveway, and the ornate back patios and balconies provide the perfect setting for sipping local wines and gazing out on the leaves as they transform throughout the season.

Here is my list:  Cape Cod, MA. Blue Ridge Mountains, NC. Aspen, CO. Upper Peninsula, MI. White Mountains, NH.Shawangunk Mountains, NY. Ozark Mountains, MO. Taos, NM.

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• Fall Travel Ideas

20 Must-Take Fall Trips Across The South

After a notable obsession with yellow houses, historic homes, and glossy magazines as a child that lead to a degree in American Studies from Sewanee: University of the South followed by a jaunt through the Washington, DC art world, Zoë found her way as the Senior Home and Garden Editor with Southern Living. There she crisscrossed the region to produce inspiring interiors, entertaining, and holiday stories while also overseeing the Idea House franchise. After seeing more porches and Christmas trees than any other reasonable person can claim, she ventured out to pave new roads freelancing for various magazines and helping people bring magazine tearsheets to life inside private homes via interior decorating.

Fall turns the South into a canvas, painting it with more colors than Pollock had at his disposal. From the Ozarks to the Lowcountry , there are plenty of fantastic places to visit for a fun fall escape. If you're itching to plan a trip to see the seasons change and feel the temps start to drop, pack and bag and set your sights on one of these autumnal destinations . Whether you're interested in hopping a train, taking a hike, or winding along scenic byways on a meandering road trip, we have ideas for you. Keep reading for some travel recommendations along with our editors' favorite picks for great fall trips to small towns, big cities, and every place in between.

See the Leaves Change in the Shenandoah Valley

One great place to see the leaves change is the Shenandoah Valley. Take a meandering drive along Skyline Drive to see the hills rolling away on either side. You can see peak fall color at the Hazel Mountain overlook, one of many vistas along the drive. Or you can book a seat on the new Virginia Scenic Railway for a nostalgic ride among the trees.

Visit North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest

Wake up to stunning mountain views from your front porch at pet-friendly Engadine Inn and Cabins . On the north edge of Nantahala National Forest, the property is just 20 miles west of Asheville and blissfully uncrowded. Don't miss The North Carolina Arboretum or the Southern Porch (a few miles from the Engadine Inn), where you can sit outside and enjoy live entertainment with your meal.

Wander in the Mountains Around Hot Springs, Arkansas

Starting at the Louisiana border, Arkansas Scenic Byway 7 meanders for around 290 miles through the center of the state by the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. Check into the historic and opulent 1890 Williams House Inn , which is just a few blocks from Quapaw Baths & Spa . The Hot Springs area offers everything from easy 1-mile loops to floating on Lake Leatherwood to more challenging adventures through Ouachita National Forest.

Enjoy the Unique Palette of South Carolina's Lowcountry

You won't see showy red and orange foliage here. Lowcountry color is a little more subtle. Spartina, a perennial cordgrass grown in salt marshes, provides habitat for wildlife. Over time, it morphs into feathery yellow-gold blades that ripple in waves when the wind blows. From summer to fall, the stalks, which look like wheat, produce seeds that entice migratory birds and waterfowl. Along the marsh edge, look for sweetgrass, which shows off brilliant purple and creamy white plumes when days shorten. Clusters of vibrant purple berries appear in fall.

See Miles of Mountains in Maryland

Miles of deciduous trees in the mountains of western Maryland are fired up with vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red in fall. Starting near the borders of Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, I-68 meanders east through Green Ridge State Forest and Savage River State Forest. The drive alone is an easy scenic road trip, but go all out and board the Frostburg Flyer . The train passes through an array of hardwood trees that burst into an umbrella of color.

Walk Across the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia

With the help of an experienced guide, families can walk across the 3,030-foot bridge. Be sure to pause and take in the breathtaking views of Fayetteville, West Virginia. But be warned: This isn't for anyone who's scared of heights. You'll see all those deep reds and bright yellows from more than 875 feet over the New River.

Hop on the Blue Ridge Railway in North Georgia

Hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and ride through the Chattahoochee National Forest just in time to see the leaves change. The train brings families on a 26-mile loop, which takes about four hours and stops in McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, before heading back to Blue Ridge, Georgia.

Ramble North Carolina and Virginia's Scenic Byways

The Blue Ridge Parkway's route gets busy in fall, when foliage hunters flock to the area to get a good look at the vibrant changing leaves. There are many great side trips off the parkway's central thoroughfare, so once you've seen all the drive's famed overlooks, take an exit and go searching for your own off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Drive Along the Pig Trail in Arkansas

This 19-mile stretch of Arkansas Highway 23 winds sharply through the Boston Mountains, a region of the Ozark National Forest. The twisty road often has a speed limit of just 5 mph and is peppered with viewing stations to take in the sights. It's just a short drive from the mountainous Eureka Springs or the up-and-coming college town of Fayetteville.

Hike the Greenbrier River Trail in West Virginia

Also in West Virginia (but this time for the heights-adverse), this 78-mile trail is flanked by the Greenbrier River and offers consistently beautiful views of a Southern fall. Rent some bikes or a couple of horses, or just lace up your hiking boots, and wander through three national forests from Lewisburg to Slabtown, West Virginia.

Explore the Town of Cumberland, Maryland

The skyline of this small Maryland town is spotted with steeples of its many churches, most of which were built in the 1800s. Once the second-largest town in Maryland, Cumberland is filled with historical knickknacks. But the best thing to do is take in that skyline with its colorful Appalachian background. You can also stretch your legs with a hike on the towpath along the C&O Canal in Cumberland.

Visit the Horses of Lexington, Kentucky

The sugar maple trees of Lexington turning deep hues of orange and yellow should be enough to draw any autumn lovers to the city. The horses roaming the pastures of various farms are an added bonus, a beautiful, almost ethereal added bonus. Take a drive through the countryside and take in fall in horse country.

Chomp on an Apple in a Virginia Orchard

You've never tasted apples like these before. Take a trip to Lynchburg, Virginia, to experience the very best of fall. Yes, the beautiful colors painting the fields and a trip to historic Monticello are contenders. But we're talking about our Southern apples, more than 100 varieties that are grown in the region. You can sample them on their own or at craft cideries that dot the region.

Camp in The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains turn vibrant colors as autumn descends across them, and there's no better place to enjoy them than Bryson City, North Carolina . From there, you can hop on the Appalachian Trail, one of the country's longest hiking trails, to take in the dusky mountains. Bring a tent, and enjoy the cool weather.

Listen to Tunes in Floyd, Virginia

It's argued that the early origins of country music can be found in the small town of Floyd, Virginia. The hamlet of 425 flushes with deep autumn colors come October, and its residents gather at the Floyd Country Store to do the two-step that they arguably helped invent.

Explore Bernheim Arboretum in Louisville, Kentucky

Located just outside Louisville, Clermont is home to the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest , where you can roam through more than 15,000 acres of formal plantings and collections, or hike up to 40 miles of trails under a colorful canopy of oak, hickory, beech, and maple trees. Book a room in downtown Louisville at the city's grande dame accommodation, The Brown Hotel , to indulge in a luxurious stay and sip amber-colored whiskeys or fall cocktails at the Lobby Bar.

Get Pampered in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas , is known for gifting visitors with long days spent rejuvenating in its many spas. You can find plenty of spa opportunities, but there are also outdoor adventures to be had. Take some time to visit Hot Springs National Park and Lake Hamilton to take in autumn's charms.

Explore Asheville, North Carolina

For a city destination with a side of fall foliage, there's no better place than Asheville, North Carolina, a spot with all the charms of a city (complete with boutiques and breweries) as well as easy access to national parks, hiking, and biking opportunities across western North Carolina.

See the Lost Maples of Texas

Make a visit to Lost Maples State Natural Area , one of the locations in Texas where you can see stunning fall foliage. Visit the area , located northwest of San Antonio, and you'll find bigtooth maples turning red, orange, and yellow across the landscape.

Go Waterfall-Watching in Blackwater Falls State Park

When you're in West Virginia and want to see waterfalls, head to Blackwater Falls State Park , where hiking trails, rivers, and waterfalls criss-cross the landscape. That's also where you'll find some of the most vibrant foliage in the state. The neighboring small towns of Thomas and Davis will give you a warm welcome.

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Planning Away

30 Best Fall Vacations in the USA (Fall Break Ideas)

Are you looking for the best fall vacations in the USA?  Awesome! We love planning fun fall break destinations each year.  Our kids get a fall break from school in October. There are a lot of great places to visit in the US in October and November. 

I am excited to share with you some of the best fall destinations in the US! 

In this post, I will give you lots of ideas for the best places to visit in the fall in the USA.  We will start with West Coast fall break vacation ideas, hit on some midwest fall getaways, and end with the best fall vacations on the East Coast.

These fall vacation ideas will include places that have beautiful fall colors, weather, and exciting things to do that are held in the fall.   

Choosing the best fall vacations in the United States is all about what you want to experience.  The weather is typically a little cooler and summer crowd levels are gone.  These fall break destinations for families are perfect for a fall trip in the US!

Let's explore some of the best places to travel in October and November in the US and pick the best fall vacations in the USA! 

If you want to save this post for later be sure to pin it on Pinterest! 

This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.

Fall Break Destinations in USA West Coast

We are going to break all of these amazing Fall break destinations into different areas of the country.  The following are the best fall vacation in the USA in the western part of the United States. 

The Top Fall Break Destinations:

1. mammoth lakes.

If you are looking for fall break vacation ideas,   Mammoth Lakes , in the Eastern Sierra of California, makes for a fabulous fall getaway.

Located plum in the middle of some of the most breathtaking fall color you can see in California, the resort town makes an excellent base for leaf peeping and sightseeing, with a variety of choices for lodging and dining. 

Mammoth Lakes is one of the best places to visit in October because it is at the peak season for leaf changing. 

Scenic Fall Drives

From Mammoth Lakes, there are a variety of scenic fall drives you can take, along both paved and unpaved roads. If you want to explore the backcountry, arrive in an appropriate vehicle.

The June Lake area to the north, the town of Mammoth Lakes and its lakes basin, and Bishop Creek Canyon to the south are all excellent for fall color viewing, with aspens, cottonwoods, and willows turning yellow, orange, and red.

Best Fall Activities at Mammoth Lake

Other than sightseeing, you can go hiking into the mountains, go boating, kayaking, or paddle boarding at area alpine lakes, rock climbing, or enjoy mountain biking or horse riding.

Landscape photographers will find endless opportunities for great photos. You can also look for birds and wildlife.

However you choose to spend a fall break vacation at Mammoth Lakes, you will have a wonderful time!

Contributed By: Dhara from Roadtripping California  

2. San Francisco in the Fall

San Francisco, also coined Fog City, is a fitting nickname for this coastal harbor metropolis most of the year. But, the sunshine breaks the sky and crowds disperse, making San Francisco one of the best fall destinations in the USA from September to November.

Best Fall Activities in San Francisco

The fall months in San Francisco offer a plethora of things to do . You can’t go wrong with a bicycle ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge .  If you are bringing the kids to San Fran , check out all the amazing museums, Pier 39 , and Ghirardelli Square . 

Staying at near Pier 39 and Fishermans Wharf is a great area.  The Marriott Pulse or Holiday Inn is a great location.

Make sure to visit the quaint community of Sausalito on the other side and grab yourself an ice cream. The Ferry Building located along the popular promenade is home to many gourmet picnic ingredients.

Pick out your favorites and head to Dolores Park with your blanket and enjoy the stunning views of the skyscape and bay area beyond. 

In October in particular, San Francisco hosts Fleet Week, a multi-day celebration of US naval and marine forces. Ensure you set time aside to watch the Blue Angels jets soar through the sky with a fully choreographed airshow.

Street Food Festival 

If you are hungry, check out the SF Street Food Festival which showcases some of the city’s top culinary talent. San Francisco has so many amazing places to eat!  

Spend 3-4 days in San Francisco to fully experience all this Bay Area city has to offer. San Francisco is one of the best Fall vacations in the USA! 

Contributed By: Haley of haleyblackall.com

3. Napa California

One of the best places to visit in the US in October is Napa, California. This isn't the best fall break destination with kids but a perfect idea for a fall vacation for adults. 

Temperatures range from a high of 79 degrees Fahrenheit to a low of 53 degrees in October. During the day it is comfortable to walk around the vineyards and it is still warm enough to have lunch outside.

Best Fall Break Vacation Activities in Napa 

Vineyards and wine tasting is what is on everyone’s mind when planning an itinerary. There are so many places to visit that it can be difficult to choose between them. Pick a variety of vineyards – some for their wine and some for the opulent architecture.

In terms of interesting architecture you can visit a “French chateaux ” at Domain Carneros or a “Greek temple” at Darioush. At Castello di Amorosa you get both sweeping vineyard views as well as a “Tuscan castle”. When it comes to wine tasting consider visiting one of the smaller vineyards such as the O’Brien Estate for a more private experience.  

To allow you to try some of the wines along the way there is a wine trolley as well as many private tours. These are better options than driving yourself.

Best Places to Stay in Napa

For a few days of luxury stay at Auberge de Soleil . Churchill Manor is in the centre of Napa and is a more budget-friendly option.

Contributed By: Scottlandlessexplored.com

4. Yosemite National Park - Fall Break Ideas

Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most famous parks covering a massive 1,200 square miles. Visitors from all around the world visit every year for a chance to experience its iconic views, world-class hikes, and towering waterfalls.  

The park can be visited all year round, but fall is a magical time to visit. While it might be a bit colder, the crowds will be fewer allowing for a more peaceful visit to this almost spiritual place. With the weather cooler, it makes it a great time to hit the trails and do one of the many notable hikes. There will be less people on the hikes during the fall which makes it more pleasurable and parking a lot easier. 

Best Fall Activities at Yosemite

If you’re not into hiking, don’t rule out a fall vacation to Yosemite. It’s stunning at this time of year. As the trees start to shed their leaves, most of the lower valley turns to a golden color creating some incredible sights. 

Accommodation in the area will also be cheaper. Consider staying in the Yosemite Valley Lodge which is located in the National Park and within walking distance for some of the hikes.

Contributed By: Journeybybackpack.com

5. Long Beach California

Best fall activities in the usa.

This is a great time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the best aquariums in California. You’ll see penguins, sea otters, sharks, a giant octopus, and much more.

Fall is also the perfect season for taking a tour of the Queen Mary. The iconic ship is full of fascinating history. For some extra excitement, sign up for one of the Haunted Encounters tours.

If you’re  traveling with your dog  (or just want to hang out with dogs), don’t miss Rosie’s Dog Beach. While your dog plays, you can watch the kitesurfers nearby. You might even see a dolphin swim by.

Fall Break Ideas for Accomdations

Long beach is home to several great hotels. my favorite is the hyatt regency long beach . they have a great pool and a lake with paddle boats..

Best of all, it’s right across the street from Shoreline Village, a charming place full of restaurants and shops.

Long Beach offers a truly delightful experience during the fall season. With fewer tourists and ideal weather, visitors can fully enjoy the attractions this city has to offer. It is one of the best fall break vacations for families. 

Contributed By: Streaklinks.com

6. Washington State Mount Rainier in Fall

During autumn, the skies are still clear and the temperature is pleasant, with just a bit of a nip in the air (with highs in the upper 50s and lows in the upper 30s).

The crowds of summer have dwindled and best of all, the shrubs and wildflowers that carpet the mountain slopes have burst into vibrant autumnal colors.

Fall Break Activities at Mount Rainier

The best way to explore Mount Rainier is on any of its incredible hiking trails. For example, the Skyline Loop is one of the most popular in the park, taking you through fields of wildflowers and blueberries until you’re face-to-face with the massive Nisqually Glacier.

For something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, check out the Summerland Trail , which takes you past a rushing river, some of the best fall foliage in the park, and under Washington’s tallest mountain. 

Fall is also an excellent time to spot wildlife in the park, from marmots to black bears and elk, as they frantically eat to prepare for the coming snowy winter.

Fall Break Ideas for Accommodations

While you’re visiting, consider making the town of Ashford, near the park’s Paradise entrance, your home base for your stay.

There’s a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels to choose from here. For example, the Paradise Village Inn offers an onsite restaurant, modern rooms, and a wood-fired hot tub to relax in at the end of the day.

Contributed By: Uprootedtraveller.com

7. Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Fall

Jackson Hole is one of the best Fall vacations in the USA.  Early September sees the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival, when the streets and galleries of Jackson fill with art, wine and music.   

Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Fall

Fall is also a great time to see and hear wildlife. Elk spend the warmer months up in high meadows and start to head down to the fields of the National Elk Refuge, which is just north of Jackson, in mid-to-late fall.  

Throughout September and October, you can hear their loud mating ‘bugle’ and perhaps see the elk rut.  Fall is also a good time to see moose mating and black bears filling up for winter. 

Fall Leaves in Jackson Hole

In mid-to-late September, the aspen and cottonwood trees in   Grand Teton National Park   turn bright autumnal colors.  Popular places to see the spectacular fall foliage are Oxbow Bend, Snake River Overlook, the Moose-Wilson scenic drive, and Antelope Flats Road.  

Between the art, animals, and aspens, autumn in Jackson Hole really is one of the best fall vacations in the US.  

Contributed By : Parks Collecting 

8. Utah Fall Break Vacation Ideas

Utah is one of the best places to visit in the fall in the USA! Utah really has it all! With its mountains near Salt Lake City and its National Parks in Southern Utah, there is so much to explore in the fall. It is one of the best fall break destinations in the west. 

Salt Lake City in Fall

The best thing to do in mid-September and early October is take a drive in the mountains.  There are some beautiful scenic drives that will allow you to see all leaves changing colors. This will allow you to see all the amazing fall colors in Utah.

There are also many Utah pumpkin patches to explore and amazing Utah fall activities such as: corn mazes, haunted houses, and fall festivals. 

Utah National Parks in Fall

Utah has the Mighty Five National Parks located in the southern part of the state.  Fall is one of the best times to visit.  Hiking at Arches , Canyonlands , and Capitol Reef is one of the best activities to do in the fall.  Zions is unbelievable in the fall with less crowds and better weather.  Bryce Canyon is also a beautiful destination. 

No matter what part of Utah you decide to visit, it is one of the best places to visit in the fall in the USA! 

9. Colorado Fall Break Ideas

Visit rocky mountain national park, 10. las vegas fall break ideas.

Looking to have an unforgettable fall break family vacation? Well, how about considering Las Vegas in the fall?

With mild weather and fewer crowds, it's the perfect time to explore all that Las Vegas has to offer.

Things to do in Fall in Vegas

Visit family-friendly museums and attractions, or enjoy hiking or other outdoor adventures at the nearby Red Rock Canyon.

While the rest of the country is starting to cool off. Las Vegas temps average between 75 – 85 degrees.

If you are looking for some outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do and tours at Red Rock Canyon .  Enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, horseback riding and even rock climbing opportunities suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.

While some might think that Las Vegas is only about gambling and partying, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do. Families with younger children will enjoy visiting the Discovery Children's Museum or the Shark Reef Aquarium .

The Tournaments of the Kings is also a great family-friendly activity.  Older children will love the thrills at Adventuredome Theme Park or the Strat.

Fall Break Ideas for Accommodations 

While there are endless choices for where to stay, you might want to consider Mandalay Bay for its 11-acre wave pool and lazy river or Circus Circus for its Adventuredome Theme Park. Red Rock Hotel and Casino is another great option if you prefer to stay off the strip.

Embrace the benefits of a family vacation in this vibrant city and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contributed By: ThreedaysinVegas.com

Best Fall Vacations in the Midwest and Central United States

If you are looking for some fun Central and Midwest fall getaways, we have a few options. The Central and the Midwest are great places for a fall vacation in the USA. There are a lot of beautiful areas to explore. 

Fall Break Ideas for the Midwest and Central States

• South Dakota
• New Orleans

11. Minnesota Fall Break at the North Shore

The North Shore in Minnesota (located from Duluth, MN along Lake Superior up to Canada) is the best fall vacation in the USA because of the gorgeous fall foliage and outdoor activities.

It’s a more remote part of Minnesota surrounded by a lot of hiking and state parks. The North Shore is home to the All American Scenic Drive. Along this route there are 8 state parks as well as many small shore front towns with charming cafes, bars, and local art.

Things to Do in Minnesota in Fall

Hiking at Tettegouche State Park or Gooseberry Falls is the most picturesque fall afternoon enjoying the crisp air and landscape before it will soon be covered in snow.

After spending a day outside hiking and getting some fresh air, curling up next to a fire (either a campfire or a fire in a cozy cabin) with some wine or hot chocolate makes the North Shore of Minnesota the perfect relaxing fall destination USA has to offer. It is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA! 

Contributed By: Wanderlustinreallife.com  

12. Wisconsin Fall Break in Door County

Door County is one of the best places to visit in the USA in the fall. It is considered the best fall vacation destination in USA tours that suddenly takes a turn and becomes calm and quiet.

During the fall season, Door County starts to feel relaxed. Travelers who love fall colors can experience a vibrant range here. The beautiful colors and serene environment are paired with the best restaurants, astonishing live performances, and shopping scenes.

Popular Door County Fall Destinations

The popular sites for adventurers include historic lighthouses. You can visit Rock Island, Washington Island, Nelsen's Hall, and more. If you love art, places like Sievers School of fiber arts and Hands-On Art Studio are worth visiting.

Travelers can explore the major sites in one day. However, you can break the itinerary and stay a little longer.

From the  best resorts in Door County   to calming beaches, this place has a lot to offer. The must-do and see things include Door County Maritime Museum, fishing on Green Bay, hiking along the Ahnapee Trail, biking on the Backcountry roads, playing golf at The Orchards Golf Course in Egg Harbour and so much more.

If you want to enjoy all the little activities, stay a little longer, preferably two to three days.

Door County is a great place for a  midwest Fall getaway in the US! 

Contributed By: Paulinaontheroad.com

13. Chicago Fall Break Ideas

Chicago isn’t just one of the best cities to visit in the US, it’s especially fun to visit during the Fall.  Located in the Great Lakes region it is easy to travel to Chicago , “The City of Big Shoulders” gets incredible Fall foliage and crisp Autumn weather.

Things to Do in Chicago in Fall

On top of everything there is to do in Chicago normally, Chicago offers–like the Sears Tower Skydeck and the Field Museum, just to name a few–Fall presents unique celebrations everyone can enjoy.

Around Halloween, the Night of 1,000 Jack-o-Lanterns lights up the Chicago Botanic Garden with intricately carved pumpkin displays. Likewise, Oktoberfest is a big deal in Chicago, and there is no shortage of breweries to celebrate at, like Forbidden Root Brewing and Revolution Brewing.

Architectural tours on the Chicago River are a great attraction year-round, but with Fall foliage popping along the banks, the city’s famous skyscrapers look even more spectacular.

Halloween at Great Wolf Lodge is another fun option if you have kids. It is located just North of Chicago in Gurnee, Illinoi s near Six Flags Great America.(which has an amazing fright fest)

Chicago is one of the best cities to visit in the Fall even if you don’t have a particular destination.

To stroll through the tree-shrouded lanes of Lincoln Park or around Millennium Park when the maples are in full bloom, coffee in hand, is a sublime experience. Fall break in Chicago is a must! 

Contributed By: OneBagNomad.net

14. Ohio Fall Break Ideas for Cuyahoga National Park

One of the best fall vacations in the USA is a trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. 

After all, this, 33,000-acre national park is located in Ohio, right between Akron and Cleveland. It sits on the Cuyahoga River and has enormous forests that come alive with fall colors in the third week of October. 

Just be sure to pack plenty of layers since daily highs can vary from 73 F in September to 50 F in November. Similarly, daily lows are around 55 F in September and 36 F in November. You can also expect between 8 and 10 days of rain per month. 

However, visiting in autumn means that you can avoid the crowds of the summer, save money on accommodations, and enjoy some of the   best fall foliage in Ohio . 

Best Fall Activities to Do in Cuyahoga

Visit Brandywine Falls, take in epic panoramas from Ledges Overlook, and stop by the Canal Exploration Center.   Once there, you can learn about the construction of the Erie Canal before walking along the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 

Just don’t leave without taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which features epic views of the region’s stunning foliage. 

Fall Break Vacation Accommodations

You can also spend the night inside the stanford house. it’s a charming farmhouse located within the park that has nine individually decorated rooms..

Contributed By: Midwestexplored.com

15. Texas Fall Break Vacation In San Antonio

Fall activiites in usa san antonio.

There are lots of fall activities to do in San Antonio. The first must-visit spot is the famous San Antonio River Walk , a charming river in the centre of town lined with restaurants, shops, and lots of vibrant autumn foliage on the trees.

In fall, visitors can also experience the renowned Fall Festival, held in September/October, as well as extravagant Halloween events and Dia de Muertos, full of phenomenal cultural celebrations!

Another reason to visit San Antonio in the fall is to explore its historic attractions, such as The Alamo without the crowds that the peak summer months bring, making a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for travelers.

So even if you’ll only have  one day in San Antonio  you’ll still be able to experience a lot!

A highly recommended hotel in San Antonio is the historic Menger Hotel, just steps away from the Alamo.

Contributed By: 24hourslayover.com

16. New Orleans Fall Break Ideas

New Orleans is always a great destination and fall break has its bonuses in the form of more favorable weather, less tourists and low-season prices.

NOLA, as the locals lovingly call their gorgeous city, is perfect for short getaways with tons of amazing places to see and a myriad of activities to choose from.

Things to Do in New Orleans in Fall

While in the city, you cannot leave without exploring the French Quarter with its charming architecture, lively jazz bars and fun vibe.

Walk along the Mississippi river bank and observe massive cruise ships pass by as well as the flood barrier system. Garden District and the historic cemeteries are also a must for their uniqueness and movie location fame.

You also cannot miss two important out-of-town activities: an educational visit to at least one of the plantations and a swamp boat ride that takes you super close to fascinating alligators.

Visiting New Orleans is not only fun, but you’ll also learn a lot about the southern climate, hurricanes, the importance of swamps, alligators, and slavery. 

The city belongs to the top attractive places in the USA and it leaves a lasting impression.  It totally qualifies as one of the best Fall vacations in the USA! 

Contributed By: On2continents.com

17. North Dakota Fall Break

Spend fall in Medora, the southwest area of North Dakota so beautiful that President Theodore Roosevelt declared it the place where “the romance of my life began”.

Cooler fall temperatures will help you enjoy the fall colors while exploring 70,000 acres of badlands in southwest North Dakota.  Expect fall temperatures to range from the 50’s-70’s whereas summer can reach nearly 100.

A trip to Medora offers a small-town wholesome Western experience packed with charm. Medora is home to Theodore Roosevelt National Park making it the perfect place for nature lovers to visit in the fall.

Things to Do in Medora North Dakota

Downtown Medora is condensed in a small, flat area, making it very walkable and accessible for all ages and abilities. Take in fine art, history, shopping, and a popular musical. Everyone in your car will find something to love in Medora, ND.

North Dakota is typically the last state for travelers to visit. This results in a less crowded experience at a National Park with 70,000 acres of badlands with practically endless views of stunning nature and abundant wildlife.

Wildlife includes wild horses running through the badlands, even stopping traffic at times! You’re very likely to see the American Bison, mule deer, prairie dogs, and antelope.

For more rugged badlands, drive the beautiful stunning South Unit of TRNP, located right at the edge of downtown Medora.

Experience views of the badlands from the comfort of your car, or hike or bike any of the marked trails. Take gravel roads to the rustic Elkhorn Ranch. For more lush views, drive an hour north of Medora to the North Unit.

No matter which activity you chose you’ll be treated to fall colors everywhere you look during your visit to Medora, ND. Depending on the weather, fall colors can start in mid-September and peak in mid-October.

North Dakota is a fantastic fall break destination. 

18. South Dakota Fall Vacation to Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a great Fall break destination. The park has little protection from the sun, so it is best to visit it when the weather is milder.

Fall temperatures in South Dakota range from 40s to 70s, making it a perfect season to explore Badlands. 

Things to Do in Fall at Badlands

A visit to the North Unit is the best way to see this national park. You can admire the badlands landscape from multiple overlooks or stop for short hikes. The park is perfect for spotting wildlife. You could see prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and bison in Badlands.

The park is $30 per vehicle or free with an Interagency Annual Pass. If you have this pass, tour Wind Cave and Jewel Cave on your fall vacation in South Dakota. Both caves get far less visitors in the fall.

Fall Break Destination 

Make Rapid City your hub for exploring the surrounding areas. Consider staying at Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore. This hotel is close to Badlands and all other sights in the region.

Contributed By: TravelRealist.com

Best Fall Vacations on the East Coast

Some of the best Fall vacations on the East Coast include the beautiful Northeast with all of its trees all the way to the perfect beaches in Florida.  These are some of the best destinations to visit in October. 

Top Fall Vacations on the East Coast

• Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina, Virginia)
• Massachusetts 
• New Hampshire
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina

19. The Blue Ridge Parkway

The   Blue Ridge Parkway Drive   is easily one of the best fall vacations in the USA! The Blue Ridge Parkway spans both North Carolina and Virginia, and North Carolina provides some of the best views on the route.

Fall in Blue Ridge is usually in October, but make sure to check the foliage calendars to be sure.

Scenic Fall Drive

One of the best places to stop is Grandfather Mountain which offers stunning sweeping overlooks of the valley below and is a perfect place to see foliage. Drive along the Lynn Cove Viaduct for amazing viewing from your car.

Stay in towns such as Asheville and Boone so that you can sip on cider after you are done with your day of hiking and driving among the fall foliage!

Contributed By:  Victoria Yore from Followmeaway

20. Maine Fall Break in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is a must-see East Coast fall vacation. Here you’ll be greeted with both mountain and ocean views AND colorful changing leaves- what more can you ask for?

Average high temperatures in September and October average 55°F- 67°F, while the average low is 38°F- 48°F. Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-October, though the date changes yearly due to temperature and precipitation.

Best Fall Scenic Drive

While in Acadia, do the 27-mile scenic drive around the park and allow extra time for photo stops. The drive connects the mountains to the coast, passing through lakes as well.

The best hikes in Acadia include The Beehive, The Precipice Trail, The Bubbles Trail, and Gorham Mountain. 

Be sure to stop by Jordan Pond, and make it up to Cadillac Mountain for sunrise. During the fall months, you will have to reserve a car reservation in advance for sunrise, but you’ll be among the first people in the U.S. to see the sunrise! If you can't get a reservation, you can do the moderate 6.5-mile round-trip hike instead.

East Coast Fall Vacation Accommodations

Stay in Bar Harbor at Main Street Motel while visiting Acadia. This mid-range hotel is within walking distance of many shops and restaurants and is highly rated.

Contributed By : Kateroamstheworld.com

21. Vermont in Fall

New England is world renowned for its unbeatable Fall foliage season and the entire state of Vermont transforms into a kaleidoscopic earthy toned wonderland each September and October, attracting thousands of leaf-peeping tourists.

Top to bottom, the narrow state of Vermont overflows with quaint and charming towns, historic covered bridges and beautiful rolling hills radiating burnt oranges, fiery reds, golden yellows and emerald greens. It is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA. 

Best Fall Activities in Vermont

Photographing and experiencing the most vivid and vibrant Fall foliage colors are of course the major reason for visiting Vermont in Autumn, but remember this is also a wonderful time to hike picturesque mountains and get out into the great outdoors.

With a week in Vermont, it’s best to follow the peak colors from North to South as they illuminate hillsides as far as the eye can see.

Start at the base of Mt Mansfield in the   awesome northern Vermont town of Stowe , before moving onto the idyllic town of Woodstock in the center. Finish the week in Manchester, right in the heart of the Green Mountains.

Visit postcard-perfect farms, drive rural countryside roads, find unique Fall foliage perspectives, hunt covered bridges and whatever you do, don’t forget spare batteries for your camera, you’re going to need them! Vermont is one of the best Fall vacations in the USA! 

Contributed By: Wherearethosemorgans.com

22. New York in the Fall

New York City in the fall is absolutely magical and should be at the top of your list of places to see during these months.

The weather will still be warm but not too hot and of course, you can enjoy the incredible fall foliage that makes the city light up.

Things to Do in New York in the Fall

There are so many things to do in New York . Head to Central Park or Highline Park to enjoy nature in the city and rent a bike to get around. A boat tour on the Hudson or East River is also highly recommended to see the skyline in all its glory.

Head to the Empire State Building and enjoy stunning views over the city. It’s truly amazing up there and well worth the entry fee.  If you want something a little more spooky head to the Harry Potter Store and enjoy some butter beer. 

New York in fall is all about being outside and enjoying the warm air. It’s absolutely beautiful and the perfect excuse to walk around Manhattan and get lost in the many little neighborhoods and streets.  There are even great fall attractions for kids in New York .

It is one of the best Fall vacations in the USA! 

Contributed By:   Guideyourtravel.com

23. New York Hudson Valley Fall Foliage

After you enjoy the city you can head to New York’s Hudson Valley. It is t he perfect East Coast fall getaway destination .

The fall foliage is truly spectacular there, and because of the river valley’s south-north orientation, there is peak fall color throughout October and into early November. You can also take a fall foliage helicopter tour to see the leaves. 

Where to See Hudson Valley Fall Foliage

The valley has thousands of sugar maple trees and wooded hills that turn bright orange, red and yellow.  Popular leaf-peeping places include Mohonk Mountain, Minnewsaka State Park, and Hudson Highlands State Park. 

Things to do in Hudson Valley During the Fall

Fall is also harvest time and there are plenty of farms that are open for apple picking, pear picking, and even some pumpkin patches where you can find the perfect Jack O’Lantern pumpkin.  Smaller kids can get lost in a corn maze or just enjoy a hay ride.

There are other Halloween activities in the area, too.  In Croton-on-Hudson, the Giant Jack O'Lantern Blaze has over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins that are arranged in elaborate displays forming enormous pictures and sculptures like a Statue of Liberty, signs of the zodiac, and a herd of dinosaurs. 

If you dare, you can also visit a haunted village at the Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses.   

There’s no end to the fall fun, making the Hudson Valley one of the best fall travel destinations in the US. 

Contributed By: Travel Collecting 

24. Massachusetts Fall Break in the Berkshires

One of the best fall vacations in the USA is the Berkshires. The Berkshires is a county in Massachusetts and refers to a portion of the Green Mountain Range that comes down from Vermont into Western Massachusetts.

It is known for its picture-perfect mountain tops, lakes, rivers , and outdoor recreational activities.  The county consists of quaint towns with eclectic festivals, museums, antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and quirky coffee shops.

Though you could easily spend a week in the Berkshires, four days is enough to see some of the most popular sites. 

Things to do in East Coast Fall Destination of Berkshire 

 Some of the more popular things to do in Berkshire are as follows:

Natural Bridge State Park in North Adams, MA is home to the only natural white marble arch in North America. The bridge is made up of 550 million-  year-old bedrock marble. It was carved into its famous arch by forces of glacial meltwater 13,000 years ago.

Bash Bish Falls in Mt. Washington, MA. Bash Bish Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the state (60 feet). The park is adjacent to Mt. Washington State Forest and New York’s Taconic State Park.

Stockbridge, MA was home to Norman Rockwell. His studio is still there today. Stockbridge’s picturesque Main Street is in his famous painting,  Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas. It is the quintessential New England town.

Before you leave make sure to check out Peace, Love, and Chocolate for their yummy treats!

Consider Berkshire as an East Coast fall trip in the US, you won't regret it! 

Contributed By: Lifeatmyownpace.com

25. New Hampshire East Coast Fall Vacation to Hampton Falls

While people flock to Acadia National Park, or even the Adirondack Park, put Hampton Falls, NH on your autumn hidden gem East Coast Fall destination. A perfect crisp fall afternoon would be no warmer than 65°F (18°C) with a low of 45°F (7°C).

If arriving from Boston Logan International Airport, rent a car and travel north to New Hampshire. The drive from the heart of Boston to Hampton Falls, NH is only 45 minutes.

Things to Do in Fall in Hampton Falls

After viewing gorgeous foliage, take a break at  Applecrest Farm Orchards . This orchard has a full-service bistro that serves delicious farm-to-table treats for the entire family. To top off your perfect autumn adventure, stay and try some of their delicious cider being pressed.

Families love to visit Applecrest Farms Orchards on the weekend for their hayrides, pumpkins to pick, and great music to enjoy. It is the perfect way to encapsulate a classic fall day in New England.

If you want to spend an entire weekend in Hampton Falls, then the   Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hampton South-Seabrook   is one of the most highly reviewed hotels in the area. Less than a 10-minute drive from   Applecrest Farm Orchards and a 10-minute drive to Hampton Beach.

Hampton Falls is a great East Coast Fall vacation destination! 

Contributed By:   Passports and Playgrounds

26. Pennsylvania East Coast Fall Vacation to Jim Thorpe

A quick East Coast fall getaway is just enough time to enjoy Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. The quaint town in the eastern part of Pennsylvania is about two hours away from Philadelphia and well worth a trip to the scenic Pocono Mountains. 

Fall is the best time to visit Jim Thorpe   since there are a lot of festivities centered around the season. The trees are full of fall colors, and the best way to see the mountains covered in orange and red leaves is to ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.

Things to Do in Jim Thorpe

The out-and-back trip on vintage trains takes riders through Lehigh Gorge State Park. The train cars are open-air, so bringing a blanket to keep warm on cold days is best. 

For outdoor adventure, the Lehigh Gorge Trail from town goes up into White Haven. The scenic bike route is full of waterfalls, dams, and locks. And for those who love to walk, the Switchback Trail also starts in town and leads people on a nice, flat trail to Mauch Chunk Lake Park.

Jim Thorpe is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA. The town goes all out with Halloween decorations, and the storefronts along West Broadway have some of the best decorations. It is also where most of the restaurants and accommodations are located in this area.

Overlooking the town is the Harry Packer Mansion Inn, a Victorian home that inspired Disney’s Haunted Mansion.

It is the perfect spot to call home for a Halloween-themed weekend or just to have a lovely stay. 

Contributed By : Livearelaxedlife.co

27. Virginia Fall Vacation in the Southwest Area

There’s a lot to love about Southwest Virginia, which shines as a top East Coast Fall destination when average temps range from the mid-50s to low-70s.

Fall Scenic Drive

Dramatic bursts of fiery orange, golden yellow and persimmon bring to life the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains. Take in the views while motoring along the Blue Ridge Parkway or while hiking the iconic Appalachian Trail.

Fall Break Activities in Southwest Virginia

Make Wytheville your base camp in Southwest Virginia for easy access to outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions, as well as historic hotels and flavorful dining options.

Wytheville is also a stone’s throw from New River Trail State Park, a 57-mile linear park that’s home to the   New River Trail , the longest rail-trail in Virginia. Bring your own bike or rent a bike along the trail.

Wytheville has lots of gram-worthy attractions too, like the rainbow-painted hot air balloon water tower and the “Big Pencil” at Wytheville Office Supply on Main Street.

You won’t want to miss Big Walker Lookout, a 100-foot-tall tower with gorgeous mountain panoramas for miles.

Make it a weekend with an in-town stay at the historic Bolling Wilson Hotel , which is named for Edith Bolling Wilson, the wife of President Woodrow Wilson.

Enjoy a glass of wine at The Perch, the hotel’s rooftop bar, which boasts views across Wytheville and the surrounding mountains. 

Southwest Virginia is one of the best East Coast Fall Vacations. 

Contributed By: GohikeVirginia.com

28. South Carolina East Coast Fall Vacation

Things to do in fall in charleston, east coast fall break ideas for accomodations, 29. georgia fall vacation in savannah.

If you’re planning a fall vacation in the US, but you’re unsure of where to go, you should consider Savannah, Georgia. 

The city itself is known for its quintessential southern charm, delicious food, and gorgeous historic homes.

Savannah, during the fall, adds an extra unique feel. You’ll be glad to know that the weather is often comfortable, ranging from 60°F to 85°F.

Savannah is particularly great during the fall due to the abundance of fall-related activities there is to enjoy. 

Things to Do in Savannah in Fall

Firstly, make sure to include some of the must-visit attractions in your   Savannah weekend itinerary such as seeing the Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, soaking up the fall foliage at Forsyth Park, and visiting several museums to learn more about the history of the city. 

After you have seen all the best sites, be sure to attend fall festivals, events, pumpkin patches, and, for those that love the spooky season, haunted houses and graveyards too! 

In terms of somewhere to stay, Forsyth Park Inn is a great option. The Inn is conveniently located close to Madison Square, and the Inn gives off all the cozy cabin vibes you could want during this season. 

Contributed By : Findloveandtravel.com

30. Florida Fall Vacation in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale  is one of the best fall vacations in the United States.

Home to some of the best beaches like Dania Beach, Hollywood Beach and Lauderdale by the Sea, among others. 

Fort Lauderdale makes a great base for your adventures in Southern Florida, whether you want to explore the restaurant scene, check out Everglades National Park, or enjoy adventures on the water like snorkeling, diving or boating. 

While the region experiences the hurricane season in late September through early October, the rest of fall is a fantastic time to visit Florida when you can enjoy mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine before the busy winter season kicks in. 

November is the best month to visit Fort Lauderdale because it’s the last month before the busy winter season. Prices on tours and accommodations are not as expensive in November and it’s not as busy compared to the winter season.

The average temperature in Fort Lauderdale during this time is in the high 60’s- mid 70’s. 

Fall Break Ideas for Fort Lauderdale

For a perfect fall vacation in Fort Lauderdale, book Hotel Maren located right on the beach in Fort Lauderdale where you can enjoy the spectacular views and be within walking distance of many restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.

Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic East Coast Fall Vacation in the USA! 

Contributed By: thediscoverynut.com

Best Fall Vacation in the USA

Hopefully, this helps give you some Fall break ideas for the best fall vacations in the USA.  There are so many amazing places to visit in October in the USA. From the West Coast to the East Coast these fall break destinations are all winners! 

There are so many options for places to visit in the US in the fall.  

With better temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery, fall is a great time to plan a fall vacation in the United States! Happy Fall Y'all! 

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26 Comments

I’d love to travel more in the fall! It’s my favorite time of year. I probably won’t get a lot of opportunity until I retire from teaching, though I am taking two personal days in September to go to Disneyland. I’ve never done that before. We loved our trip out west this summer, and we’d go again in a heartbeat. Maybe our next visit can be in the fall!

Fall is such a great time to travel! Have fun at Disneyland!

Love this curated list of the best fall vacations in the U.S. I used to live in Vermont so am happy to see it made the list!

I heard Vermont is amazing in the fall!

Fall colors are spectacular! We are very lucky to be able to fully enjoy this treat!

Yes, I love all the colors

Fall absolutely one of the best tines to travel. These are sojme great places to see during my favorite season!

I know, it is cooler and not as crowded!

Fall is a great time to travel! Several of these locations are on my travel list. And I’m headed to Charleston this weekend for four days.

That will be awesome!

You amassed a master list of autumn activites. (When I see “fall” – it makes me think of the fall of mankind – closer than we thought with this pandemic…). After Balloon Fiesta, we shall see what beckons. Thanks for all the great ideas!

HAHA, I know right!

What stunning places to visit this autumn. They all look like the best fall vacations in the USA.

I know I haven’t planned one yet!

We have been to Chicago as well as the Adirondacks in the fall, and really enjoyed both. I would love to see Vermont though!

Me too! I bet it is beautiful!

These are all great places to visit in the fall. My kids are definitely ready for the cooler weather and all the pumpkin spice.

My kids love all the Halloween decorations and Fall activities.

These are some amazing spots to visit in the fall. I wish I could hit them all!

I know me too!

I can see why these are some of the best fall vacations in the USA! I’ve always wanted to drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains during peak color change.

That would be beautiful!

Thanks! This was just what I was looking for. I love how many different Fall ideas you have. I’m from Florida so I don’t get to see Fall leaves very much. A couple of years ago I did drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains to see the fall leaves and that was magical! Thanks for so many other ideas. I wish I could do them all!

No problem! I love fall and traveling around the USA!

Fall is definitely my favorite season. I lived in Colorado for a few years and was able to see the stunning fall colors the Rockies provide. I currently and have lived in Kentucky most of my life and we have some beautiful fall foilage as well. A lot of these places in this post are definitely going to become a part of my bucket list!

I have heard Kentucky is amazing. I haven’t had a chance to visit yet!

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ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

Top 10 fall travel destinations in the usa.

Fall marks an excellent time for a trip filled with beautiful views, delicious food, outdoor activities, and maybe a winery visit or two. With that in mind, here are the top 10 fall travel destinations for soaking up fall foliage and unwinding before winter begins. And don’t forget to pack accordingly ! 

Best Fall Destinations in America

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1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

What better way to enjoy fall’s changing colors than visiting a national park filled with rolling hills in gorgeous autumnal hues? Stay in nearby Pigeon Forge, TN or Gatlinburg, TN to easily explore all that America’s most visited national park has to offer.

Be sure to drive through Cades Cove, where you’re most likely to get a peek at local wildlife like white-tailed deer, coyotes, and even black bears!

When in town, unwind with a trip to the Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market for fall treats or sample some wine at an Appalachian vineyard!

2. Salem, Massachusetts - Spooky Fall Travel Destination

New England is always a great place to visit in the fall. Salem is the top choice for history buffs and travelers in search of something a little more spooky.

Many people know this town because of the Salem witch trials of the 1600’s, and the town now embraces it’s sordid past with plenty of activities harkening back to those dark days. Head to the Salem Witch Village for historical tours , candlelit ghost walks , and so much more.

You May Also Like: 15 Spookiest Places to Visit in the USA

3. Zion National Park in Fall

If you’re in search of fall vacation ideas closer to the west coast, look no further than Zion National Park in Utah. Autumn marks one of the best times to travel to Zion! The crowds are thinner than usual but the weather is perfect for camping, hiking, and exploring the wild red rock landscape.

My top recommendation? Take in the changing fall colors of the park from horseback , you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay:  Zion Mountain Ranch

4. Napa Valley, California

Does anything pair better with a nice glass of red than sweeping views of wine country in the crisp fall air? I didn’t think so! Napa Valley is one of the best places to visit in fall for wine lovers and foodies alike.

Fill your time dining at Michelin starred restaurants and touring the various wineries of the region. For those who like to be a little more hands-on, some wineries even offer the chance to get involved with the harvest by stomping grapes or picking them from the vine!

Consider splurging on an incredible Hot-Air-Balloon ride that overlooks all of Napa Valley!

Where to Stay:  Napa River Inn

5. Acadia National Park - New England Fall Destination

Acadia National Park on the coast of Maine attracts fall foliage lovers from across the country, and for good reason. This northern fall destination boasts incredible hues of red, orange, and yellow leaves, peaking around late October.

Visiting Acadia in the fall is also a great way to conquer some of the more strenuous hikes in the park that can get too hot and crowded in the high season, like the famed Beehive trail and Precipice trail .

6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Visiting Jackson Hole in fall is a great way to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons before the mountains are blanketed in snow all winter.

This small Wyoming town offers one of the best fall vacations for outdoor enthusiasts. Not only are you within driving distance of both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park , but you can also hit the ski slopes in late fall if you’d like! 

7. Asheville, North Carolina - Quirky Fall Travel Destination

Just on the other side of the Great Smoky Mountains sits North Carolina, home to the laid back, hippy mountain town of Asheville . This town is a great fall vacation idea for those looking to enjoy a small town with plenty of quirks and character.

Peruse the cute shops in downtown Asheville and enjoy seasonal treats from one of the many boutique cafes.  For a touch of the upscale, tour the illustrious Biltmore estate , which is currently open for fall activities.

You May Also Like: The Ultimate Fall Travel Bucket List

8. Flagstaff, Arizona

If you’re looking for places to visit in the fall that combines the great outdoors with a fascinating history, Flagstaff is a great choice! As the seat of the Colorado Plateau, Flagstaff is deeply connected to a rich and varied Native American history.

Be sure to check out the Wupatki National Monument to see pueblos from almost 1,000 years ago. You can also support local Native American artisans in town by shopping for authentic handmade jewelry and other goods!

9. Hudson, New York

Only a two-hour train ride away from Manhattan lies this upstate autumnal jewel. Hudson is a cool small town and an antique lover’s dream, making it one of the best fall travel destinations for window shoppers, deal finders, and vintage furniture fiends of all kinds.

This dreamy little town is perfect for a weekend getaway from the city, or for a longer trip to enjoy all the shopping in town as well as the scenic hiking of the Hudson Valley .

Photo above from: English Wikipedia  user  Daniel Case

10. Vail, Colorado - Beautiful Fall Aspen Trees

No roundup of the top fall travel destinations would be complete without Vail, Colorado ! 

Those yellow leaves are absolutely stunning come autumn, making this cute village one of the best fall vacations through the end of November.

Take a guided fall leaves tour , shop your way through Vail Village , or book a horseback ride for incredible views of all of Vail Valley!  

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Resort Vail , it was incredible! 

Which of these fall travel destinations are you planning to visit this year? Drop me a comment below or DM me on Instagram , I’d love to know!

Check Out These Posts:

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• 24 Helpful Travel Apps Every Traveler Needs
• The Ultimate Gift Guide for the Travel Obsessed

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Fall Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack for a Road Trip in the Fall

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Fall Is the Best Season for Road Trips in the U.S.—Here Are the Top 12

If you’re craving a roadside adventure this autumn, consider one of these destinations..

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An aerial view of the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire

Photo by Yuzi S/Shutterstock

A road trip can be as simple as taking an afternoon drive to view some fall color (with an excellent soundtrack or podcast , naturally). Or it could be slightly more ambitious: spending a full weekend exploring the autumnal glory and fall foliage of neighboring states you may not have seen in awhile. Take in the changing trees, inhale the crisp air, and taste local foods on one of these 12 fall road trips across the United States.

1. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

• Start : Williamstown
• End : Greenfield
• Distance : 63 miles

The 63-mile Mohawk Trail cuts through Massachusetts’s Berkshire Mountain region and follows the old trail used by Native Americans to travel between the valleys of Connecticut and the Hudson. Starting in Williamstown, home to Williams College, continue on Route 2 to North Adams for the Western Gateway Heritage State Park, Natural Bridge State Park, MASS MoCA , and other attractions . The drive eventually ends east in the small town of Greenfield.

Tip: If you drive through North Adams at the right time, you may even catch the annual Fall Foliage Festival and Parade.

Where to stay along the way

• Book now : Tourists

Start your journey with a stay at Tourists , a mere three miles into the route in North Adams. The property opened in summer 2018 after a group of creatives, including the bassist from the band Wilco, turned a midcentury motor lodge into a contemporary, rustic-chic hotel with a bar and comfort-food joint, the Airport Rooms.

Drive to Stowe, Vermont and you can see fall foliage in places like Mount Mansfield.

Photo by Rafael Rodrigues/Unsplash

2. Burlington to Woodstock, Vermont

• Start : Burlington
• End : Woodstock
• Distance : 132 miles

Take in Vermont’s gorgeous fall scenery and its local fare with this road trip in the northwest region of the state. Starting in Burlington, head to the local farmers’ market for breakfast before continuing south on Route 89 to Stowe (which claims to be “ Fall’s Color Capital ”). Come here from early September through late October, and you can try concepts like Long Trail Brewing Company and Hen of the Wood while enjoying the fall foliage display around you. The drive concludes in Woodstock, offering local dishes from Fat Toad Farm.

• Book now : Field Guide Lodge

Field Guide Lodge in Stowe has an escape-to-the-woods atmosphere thanks to decorations like aspen tree wallpaper and deer motifs. But this property is far from a bare-bones cabin stay, thanks to amenities like its seasonally heated pool and hot tub.

Duluth, Minnesota is a port city home to many trails for fall nature.

Photo by Tom Gainor/Unsplash

3. North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota

• Start : Duluth
• End : Grand Portage
• Distance : 154 miles

Officially known as Highway 61 —and immortalized in song by Minnesota native Bob Dylan—this 154-mile route starts in Duluth and winds along Lake Superior before ending in the town of Grand Portage. Along the way? Waterfalls, lighthouses, state parks , and fall foliage galore. Superior National Forest, to the west of the Lutsen ski resort, is a worthy detour for its seasonal colors.

• Book now : Mökki Dwelling ; Beacon Hill Haven

Once you’re on the road, a vacation rental is your best bet. We recommend looking for a cozy cabin along Lake Superior, like Mökki Dwelling by the Dock in Grand Marais or Beacon Hill Haven in Schroeder.

While in Sturgeon Bay, don’t miss the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Lighthouse.

Photo by Keenan Davidson/Unsplash

4. Door-to-door Door County, Wisconsin

• Start : Sturgeon Bay
• End : Sturgeon Bay
• Distance : 70 miles

A squiggly peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan, Door County is often called the “ Cape Cod of the Midwest” —and rightfully so. Just 50 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County has scenic coves, cherry and apple orchards, harbors, lighthouses, wineries, and some 300 miles of coastline.

Start your drive in Sturgeon Bay, heading toward Newport State Park—which happens to be an International Dark Sky Reserve —before getting to the end of the road at car-free, 900-acre Rock Island State Park . On your way back to Sturgeon Bay, enjoy a dose of small-town charm with a stop by Ephraim, a Scandinavian-style village .

• Book now : Hillside Waterfront Hotel

Book a room roughly halfway between Sturgeon Bay and Rock Island State Park, in Ephraim, at the Hillside Waterfront Hotel . The comfortable bed-and-breakfast has five suites and two cottages, along with the longest porch in the county. (Sundowner, anyone?).

One of the best places to see Savannah’s live oak trees is at the Wormsloe Plantation Historic Site.

Photo by Jose Llamas/Unsplash

5. Atlanta to Savannah to Charleston

• Start : Atlanta, Georgia
• End : Charleston, South Carolina
• Distance : 248 miles

The drive from Atlanta to Charleston by way of Savannah, Georgia, is “an ideal itinerary for the traveler seeking a city and coastal experience,” says Kristin Braswell, founder of CrushGlobal Road Trips . And what better time to tour through the South than the fall, when the temperatures are mild and roadside nature gets especially scenic? Start with a city adventure in Atlanta, exploring historical points of interest like the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and art at Westside Cultural Arts Center .

Next, head toward the coast to Savannah, Georgia. “No trip to Savannah would be complete without fully immersing yourself into the city’s incredible dining scene,” says Braswell. “Make a trip to the Grey , where the legendary crab beignets with mascarpone will be a dish you’ll talk about for years to come.” Then end your trip in Charleston , South Carolina, a city worth lingering in to get to know its most iconic foods or learn about Gullah-Geechee cuisine and African American history .

• Book now : Perry Lane Hotel

Once in Savannah , spend the night at the luxurious, centrally located Perry Lane Hotel , complete with a bar and restaurant, rooftop pool, and expansive lawn for lounging in between seeing the sights. At the end of your route, book a room for a few days at one of our favorite Charleston hotels .

6. West Virginia’s natural wonders

• Start : Blackwater Falls State Park
• End : New River Gorge National Park
• Distance : 200 miles

West Virginia’s location in the Appalachian Mountain region makes it an attractive place to visit in the fall, especially in October. One of the best ways to tour this area is on a three-day adventure visiting Blackwater Falls State Park, Seneca Rocks, and the New River Gorge National Park. Experienced rafters may want to come earlier in the fall because there’s plenty of exhilarating white water rafting on the Gauley River once “ Gauley Season ” comes around (the six weeks or so following Labor Day).

Where to stay

• Book now : Adventures on the Gorge

Stay deep within West Virginia’s nature with Adventures on the Gorge , which offers wooden cabins and stargazing opportunities. (Some cabins offer a private porch and hot tub.) To maximize the experience, AFAR senior manager Jessie Beck suggests catching a sundown drink at nearby restaurants Smokey’s on the Gorge or Chetty’s Pub.

While in San Antonio, don’t miss its 15-mile-long River Walk.

Photo by Robin LeeAnn/Unsplash

7. Hill Country, Texas

• Start : Austin or San Antonio
• End : Austin or San Antonio
• Distance : 150 miles (give or take)

You can begin your journey into Texas Hill Country in either Austin or San Antonio; limestone and granite hills radiate out from both cities. They’re also where the worlds of cowboys and wine collide. For the former, head to Bandera (the self-proclaimed “Cowboy Capital of the World”) and catch a rodeo; for the latter, dip into the wineries that line Wine Road 290 in Fredericksburg. There are more than a dozen other towns to explore, including New Braunfels (where two rivers flow through) and Lockhart, the state’s barbecue capital .

• Book now : Treehouse Utopia

Continue 40 minutes outside of Bandera to Utopia for a unique Texas Hill Country accommodation. Here, you’ll find Treehouse Utopia , a quartet of luxury tree houses overlooking the lazy Sabinal River, run by Texas-born chef and entrepreneur Laurel Waters.

The Linn Cove Viaduct, at mile marker 304.4, is one of the most ambitious and technically challenging segments of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Photo by Anthony Heflin/Shutterstock

8. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

• Start : Charlottesville, Virginia
• End : Asheville, North Carolina
• Distance : 384 miles

Launched in 1935 as a New Deal project, the Blue Ridge Parkway took 52 years to complete and is now one of the country’s most iconic highways. Come fall, it’s also one of its most vivid. To make the most of the experience, give yourself plenty of time to cruise from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Asheville, North Carolina (the most popular segment of the 469-mile road). You’ll want that time to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail, pop into Blue Ridge Music Center for a little bluegrass , and savor both barbecue and fall colors.

• Book now : Oakhurst Inn

Start your road trip with a good night’s sleep at Oakhurst Inn in Charlottesville, Virginia, a cluster of buildings from the 1920s turned into a comfortable boutique hotel. Along the next leg of your journey, seek out a secluded Airbnb or vacation rental (there are plenty to choose from in the Blue Ridge Mountains ). Save a few days at the end of your drive and check in to one of Asheville’s best hotels so you can leisurely explore the city’s multicultural dining scene and nearby hikes .

Mendocino County is located on California’s northern stretch of coast.

Photo by Zahid Lilani/Unsplash

9. Highway 1 in Mendocino County, California

• Start : Gualala
• End : Fort Bragg
• Distance : 59 miles

This road trip tackles a different part of Highway 1 —not the iconic stretch through Big Sur, but the section that winds along coastal Mendocino County, whose border begins three hours north of San Francisco . Take a couple of days to meander from the town of Gualala (where you can visit galleries and walk through a pygmy forest) to Fort Bragg (home to the aptly named Glass Beach, abundant with sea glass) with stops for redwoods, lighthouses, and winetasting along the way.

• Book now : Harbor House Inn ; JD House

For your first night, book a room and reservation for dinner at Harbor House Inn in Elk, a small inn overlooking a private beach with a one-Michelin-star restaurant by the same name. Just north in Mendocino, stay the next night (or longer) at the modern, oceanside JD House .

The nearly one-million-acre Olympic National Park has more than 3,000 miles of rivers and streams.

Photo by John Thomas/Unsplash

10. Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive, Washington

• Start : Edmonds
• End : Olympia
• Distance : 329 miles

Yes, you might get rained on during a fall visit to the Olympic Peninsula —the wild, mossy arm west of Seattle that encompasses Olympic National Park. But that’s part of the charm as you tour the loop, counterclockwise. Ferry over from Edmonds to Kingston, a city 17 miles north of Seattle, and begin where Highway 104 meets Highway 101 (your road for most of the drive). Along the route, learn to pronounce the names of small towns like Sequim (“Skwim”) and Dosewallips (“Doh-si-wall-ips”), hike to waterfalls flush with seasonal rain, explore rain forests alive with colorful maples and mushrooms, and walk the raw coast on the westernmost edge of the peninsula.

• Book now : Lake Crescent Lodge ; Kalaloch Lodge

Start your trip with a stay in a cabin at Lake Crescent Lodge , whose waterside location offers scenic views of the lake and nearby mountains. Next, head south to the historic Kalaloch Lodge , which overlooks the Pacific Ocean.

From the Beartooth Highway, travelers can park and hike the short (but steep!) 1.6-mile (round-trip) trail to Gardner Lake.

Photo by Mendenhall Olga/Shutterstock

11. Enchanted Circle, New Mexico

• Start : Taos
• Distance : 84 miles

Wheeler Peak, also known as Cerro de Taos and the highest mountain in New Mexico, is the center point for the Enchanted Circle drive . Most travelers drive the loop north from Taos, first passing through the Hondo Valley, home to the D.H. Lawrence memorial. Fascinating and historical towns dot the route: Questa, where woodworkers whittle and tinsmiths hammer; Red River , where travelers can get a taste of the Old West and, in the winter, ski and snowboard; and Elizabethtown , once a bustling gold mining enclave, now a ghost town. All roads, of course, lead back to Taos.

• Book now : Taos Inn

The historic Taos Inn is a group of adobe houses, some dating back to the 1800s, and sits just off the town’s main square. With its adjacent Southwestern restaurant, Doc Martin’s , and Adobe Bar (known for its Margaritas), you won’t have to venture far after you’ve parked the car for the night.

Blanca Peak, the fourth highest summit of the Rocky Mountains, is located around 20 miles from the town of Alamosa.

Photo by Rico Gore/Unsplash

12. Los Caminos Antiguos, Colorado

• Start : Alamosa, Colorado
• End : Chama, New Mexico
• Distance : 129 miles

Of Colorado’s 26 byways , Los Caminos Antiguos offers a peek at some of Colorado’s earliest history (hence the name, which translates to “the ancient roads”). Spanish explorers settled in the San Luis Valley in the 16th century, founding some of Colorado’s earliest communities, including San Luis (a stop along the way). The route begins in the small city of Alamosa, the gateway to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve , and ends just over the Colorado border in Chama, New Mexico.

• Book now : Zapata Ranch; Piñon Flats Campground

For those staying near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, AFAR contributor Melanie Haiken recommends Zapata Ranch , a working dude ranch and nature conservancy. But there are also options within the park, including campsites at Piñon Flats Campground .

This article originally appeared online in September 2020; it was updated on August 15, 2023, to include current information.

Travel Blog

Fall Months in the USA: Dates, Weather, Holidays & Travel Ideas

Have you ever wondered which months are fall months in the USA? Or where to best go to see some stunning fall foliage? Then I got you covered!

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in the USA. Colorful foliage, pumpkin patches, and fresh apple pies: what’s not to love about fall in the US?

All the definitions of meteorological fall and astronomical fall can be a little confusing. Plus, the US is so big, that fall looks quite different from state to state.

To give you a bit more clarity about the fall months in the USA, I have prepared this informative post for you.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Meteorological fall in the usa, astronomical fall in the usa, national holidays in fall in the usa, regional & cultural festivities in fall in the usa, rockies & mountain west, 2. new york, 3. aspen, colorado, what are the seasons in the usa, conclusion: fall months in the usa, faq: fall months in the usa, about the author, when are the fall months in the usa.

First things first. If you just came here to find out about when it is fall in the US, then look no further.

Here is a quick overview of the fall months in the USA and how they usually fall:

• Meteorological : September, October, November
• Astronomical : Around September 22 to December 21

As we have heard, the meteorological fall in the USA is from September 1 to November 30.

This way of measuring is mainly used by scientists and for statistics. It’s all about keeping things simple for weather tracking and stats.

Meteorological seasons are based on the annual temperature cycle . But they do follow the calendar months, so it is easier to compare the stats from year to year.

So, in short: Meteorological fall is those three months— September, October, and November ! That is when the weather usually starts cooling down.

Astronomical fall is a bit different than the meteorological fall we just discussed.

It starts around September 22 and ends around December 21 . These dates are not fixed.

The astronomical fall is based on the Earth’s position to the sun.

Astronomical fall starts with the autumnal equinox . That’s when day and night are about the same length.

It ends with the winter solstice . That is the shortest day of the year.

The exact dates can vary a bit each year because of the Earth’s orbit. But it’s usually in the same time frame.

Which Holidays Are in the Fall Months in the USA?

Those who know me know how much I am into seasonal things and festivities. And fall in the US is an amazing time to celebrate.

I have made you a small list with notable holidays and celebrations in the USA in the fall, so you don’t miss out on any fun!

• Labor Day: First Monday in September
• Columbus Day: Second Monday in October
• Veterans Day: November 11
• Thanksgiving: Fourth Thursday in November
• Black Friday: Day after Thanksgiving, not a holiday but important to me as a girl
• Oktoberfest : Sometime in September and October, especially in places with German heritage
• Halloween : October 31 (not an official holiday, but widely celebrated)
• Diwali : Usually in October or November, depending on the Hindu calendar
• Harvest Festivals: Different dates, celebrating the fall harvest
• Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos): November 1-2, especially big in areas with Mexican heritage
• Native American Heritage Month: November, with events throughout the month

Weather in Fall in the USA

It is quite hard to say what the weather in the fall in the US is like because the country is so big. While some parts are covered in early snow already, others still enjoy warm and sunshiny days.

I have made a small overview of the weather in the USA in the fall for different regions for you to give a bit more of an understanding.

• Places like New York, Massachusetts, New England, etc
• Fall is pretty mild in September but gets a lot colder by November
• The area is famous for vibrant fall foliage, especially in October
• Chance of early snow in late November
• September: 60-70°F (15-21°C)
• November: 40-50°F (4-10°C)
• States like Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina
• Still pretty warm in September, cools down a bit by November
• Hurricane Season! It is important to keep an eye on the National Weather Service
• September: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• November: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
• Places like Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois.
• Similar to the Northeast, but a bit more unpredictable weather-wise
• Also, lots of colorful leaves in October
• Can get super chilly by November
• September: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• November: 35-45°F (2-7°C)
• Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, etc.
• Still hot in September, but gets more comfortable as fall drags on
• The season is quite dry, not much rain
• September: 80-90°F (27-32°C)
• California, Oregon, Washington etc
• Mild in general, but varies a lot depending on the place
• Northern parts can get pretty wet, especially in late fall
• Southern Cali is pretty warm and dry
• Colorado, Utah, Montana, etc.
• Can get cold pretty quickly, especially in higher elevations
• Snow in the mountains by November for sure
• September: 50-60°F (10-16°C)
• November: 20-30°F (-7 to -1°C)

Fall Travel Ideas USA

Now that we know when the fall months are in the US, you are probably wondering where to go on your fall holiday.

Now, of course, typical places like New England need to be on my fall travel bucket list. But there are also some underrated places out there that are simply perfect for a fall vacation.

Keep on reading for my 3 favorite places for fall travel in the USA.

Vermont in the fall is all about the stunning fall foliage. The red, orange, and yellow leaves are so vibrant and basically everywhere.

Vermont is also famous for its maple syrup. So you will likely sample all kinds of maple-flavored treats.

The small towns in Vermont have an amazingly cozy vibe. Think farmers’ markets, cute shops, and local fairs . Always reminds me a bit of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls.

There is also a big choice of outdoor activities in fall in Vermont. You can go hiking, mountain biking or just take scenic drives around the area.

And don’t forget about the apple picking and cider tasting !

New York in the fall is so special, it is one of my favorite places to visit.

The city gets this great vibe with pumpkin-spiced everything and leaves turning golden in Central Park.

Plus, it’s not as hot or as crowded as the summer. That makes it a great time to explore .

Of course, you should also take a small road trip Upstate. There are lots of cool apple orchards and wineries you can visit.

Aspen, Colorado is like a golden wonderland in the fall months of the USA.

The aspen trees turn this lovely shade of yellow. The entire area looks like something out of a painting.

The mountains in the background create a nice contrast to the golden foliage.

Aspen in fall is also a lot quieter than during ski season . That leaves some more room to explore.

Aspen is pretty much a must-see if you’re all about that fall beauty.

Lastly, I wanted to give you a quick overview of the other seasons in the USA.

• Winter: December, January, February
• Spring: March, April, May
• Summer: June, July, August
• Fall: September, October, November

Now that we have talked about the fall months in the USA and learned the difference between astronomical fall and meteorological fall, it is time to wrap it up.

To sum it up: Meteorological fall in the USA is from September 1 to November 30, while astronomical fall usually runs from around September 22 to December 21.

Fall in the US is a time of colorful leaves, pumpkin patches, and harvest celebrations. Be sure to not miss one of the amazing fall travel destinations, like Aspen or Vermont.

Or maybe discover off-the-beaten paths in Alamogordo, New Mexico ?

Fall in the USA spans from September to November. It’s a lovely time when the leaves change colors, and the weather becomes cooler. Perfect for exploring and enjoying the rich history and culture that this diverse country has to offer.

Fall in the Northern Hemisphere typically occurs from September to November. It’s a wonderful season to travel, explore, and soak in the beauty of changing foliage and the rich historical and cultural experiences many places have to offer. It is exactly the other way in the Southern Hemisphere.

Yes, climate change can impact the fall season. Rising temperatures can delay the onset of cooler weather, affecting when leaves change colors and when fall truly begins. It’s important to be mindful of these changes and their potential effects on the natural beauty and timing of the season

The first day of fall, known as the autumnal equinox, usually occurs on September 22nd or 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere. It marks the moment when day and night are nearly equal in length, signaling the start of cooler temperatures and the beautiful transformation of leaves into vibrant autumn colors.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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20 Ideas for the Perfect Romantic Fall Getaway

Autumn is for lovers at these cozy and idyllic destinations.

With its cozy associations, fiery red leaves, and spiced confections, fall is easily one of the most romantic seasons. There's something about autumn that sparks a desire to spend quality time with someone special — whether you're picking pumpkins, drinking wine, or holding hands while braving a haunted attraction. And what better way to do all of the above than by hitting the road?

From the East Coast to the tip-top of the Pacific Northwest, countless destinations brim with fall foliage, inviting lodges, and harvest festivals . As a bonus, many places are less crowded during the fall, creating a more private atmosphere.

So, will it be a pumpkin-infused spa treatment or a fireside wine tasting to celebrate the long-awaited harvest season? You decide with these 20 romantic getaways perfect for fall.

Middleburg, Virginia

Featuring quaint streets lined with 18th-century buildings, the town of Middleburg makes a charming introduction to Loudoun County, northern Virginia’s bucolic horse country. You can spend the morning browsing antique shops and local galleries, then head a few streets over to horse farms and wineries that offer a spectacular backdrop of fall foliage from mid-October to the beginning of November.

The Salamander Resort & Spa often has packages just for couples, like the Season of Romance special, which includes a bottle of sparkling wine, handmade pastries, and a $100 nightly resort credit "to be used on romantic dining, couple's massages, intimate trail rides, and so much more." The resort’s spa features a two-person suite with a private wraparound stone patio and garden, an outdoor hot tub, and a fireplace.

After a bit of pampering, go for a four-course locavore dinner at the Red Fox Inn 's tavern, set in a 1728 stone building with period furnishings.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Just 45 minutes from Portland, the Willamette Valley promises exceptional restaurants, hiking trails, hot-air balloon rides, wine tours by helicopter or horse, and scenic countryside prime for picnicking. There are roughly 700 wineries in the area, including Anne Amie in the rolling hills of the Yamhill-Carlton District and Ardiri Winery , where you can sit fireside and gaze at the Chehalem foothills.

After a day of tastings, retreat to The Allison Inn , where you can unwind with a couple’s treatment in the 15,000-square-foot spa, complete with landscaped garden terraces and fire pits. You’ll be refreshed for dinner at Jory , which boasts dishes sourced from the hotel’s 1.5-acre vegetable garden and an 800-bottle wine list.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Pat & Chuck Blackley/Alamy

Hike hand-in-hand through Acadia , Maine’s only national park, while keeping an eye out for broad-winged hawks and moose along the pine-fringed trails. It’s worth starting early to see the sunrise from the top of 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Acadia attractions like the scenic Schoodic Byway , granite sea cliffs, and carriage roads around Eagle Lake that are perfect for biking. The park teems with crowds during the summer high season, so visiting in autumn means a higher chance of getting the trails to yourself. Soak up more rugged New England scenery from the Bar Harbor Inn , a shingled lodge on Frenchman Bay with eight acres of gardens, a spa, and proximity to Bar Harbor’s shops and restaurants.

Greenough, Montana

Food, romance, and adventure are in the air at The Resort at Paws Up , a 37,000-acre Montana ranch . For foodies and wine lovers, Montana Master Chefs is the event of a lifetime with world-class cuisine and exquisite vino. Get up close and personal with a group of James Beard Award winners, finalists, and nominees every September.

For a thrilling date, hop aboard a private helicopter to Glacier National Park (otherwise a three-hour drive from the resort) and peep the changing colors. For something more relaxing, spend an afternoon at Spa Town , the resort’s cluster of white tents surrounded by nature, for luxurious treatments, yoga classes, and pure bliss.

Bradford, Pennsylvania

In northwest Pennsylvania, the small town of Bradford erupts in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red each fall. A chill rolls in at night, encouraging couples to snuggle up by a bonfire around Skipper Lake. Settle in at the Lodge at Glendorn , where you can stay in the main lodge — with its impressive two-story sandstone fireplace, beamed cathedral ceilings, stained-glass windows, and sunporch — or in a private cabin by running streams.

Enjoy a picnic spread for two prepared by the lodge’s chef, or take matters into your own hands by attending a custom cooking class (think deboning stream-caught trout and preparing vegetables freshly picked from the culinary garden).

Big Sur, California

Mark Conlin/Alamy

Big Sur shines brightest in the fall when the forecast calls for clear, warm days and cool, starry nights. Do your stargazing at the Post Ranch Inn , which has not only an enviable position overlooking the Pacific Coast but also one of the largest hotel telescopes in the United States. Epicureans will also appreciate the hotel’s romantic restaurant, which hosts a four-course wine-pairing experience 1,200 feet above the breaking waves. Back in your guest room, you can settle in by the fireplace and watch migrating whales — with some help from the supplied binoculars.

Head to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park in time for a romantic coastal sunset, or time your visit to October’s Big Sur River Run , known as the most beautiful 10K in the world.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Charleston ’s cobblestone streets and moss-draped live oaks set the scene for romance. A dynamic food scene has been brewing here, and you can take a culinary tour that starts with sweet tea and grits and ends with Carolina barbecue. Couples who stay in one of the five historic buildings (all circa 1804) at Zero George can also sign up for a Lowcountry cooking class with a guest chef in the kitchen carriage house.

Finish your tour of Charleston with a romantic dinner at Husk or Circa 1886 . Then, toast your good fortune while gazing at the city from Market Pavilion Hotel's rooftop bar .

Park City, Utah

The slopes don’t open until the end of November, so fall is the time to enjoy Park City’s still-temperate weather and other outdoor adventures like hiking and mountain biking. This is also a mountain town with serious culture, demonstrated by the Kimball Art Center and live-music venue Eccles Center .

Treat yourselves to a stay at one of the Natural Retreats in Deer Valley, The Canyons, and Silver Star. Some of these properties come with stocked private bars, hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and pool access. But if a boutique hotel is more your style, check in to Washington School House 's 16-foot-ceilinged King Room, which features a wrought-iron bed dressed in crisp white linens, an antique crystal chandelier, and a white marble bathroom with heated floors.

Barnard, Vermont

At the all-inclusive resort Twin Farms , couples are treated to an upscale cabin experience complete with a hot tub and a crackling fire. You can picnic among the 300-acre property’s meadows and apple orchards or feast on dinner in the 20,000-bottle wine cellar. Get your hearts racing with a round of tennis, a canoe outing on Copper Pond, or a bike ride along area trails. You can even play croquet or try your hand at fly-fishing at the resort’s fully stocked pond. Rejuvenate any sore muscles at the Bridge House Spa, where amenities include glass-brick steam rooms and a furo — a Japanese hot soaking tub — with views of Vermont’s brilliant fall foliage .

Asheville, North Carolina

Extreme elevations and more than 100 species of deciduous trees give the Blue Ridge Mountains one of the most vibrant leaf seasons worldwide. Thrill-seeking couples can glide above the forest side by side on Navitat 's mountaintop zip line. Other Asheville area adventures include biking, horseback riding, and river floating trips from the Biltmore Estate . The historic home hosts an array of activities, including a Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting . And for more sweetness, the Chocolate Lounge at French Broad Chocolates has an outrageous menu of handcrafted cakes, brownies, bonbons, and drinking chocolate (think ganache-based liquid truffles in creative flavors such as cayenne and cinnamon, Indian kulfi, or steamy Oaxacan hot chocolate with almonds, cinnamon, and almond milk). You can also fill up on seasonal treats at the Urban Orchard Cider Co. tasting rooms, which feature unique ciders inspired by desserts like chocolate-covered strawberries and bananas Foster.

Missouri Wine Country

The area around Hermann and Augusta — 40 miles apart by car — counts a handful of boutique wineries. It’s one of Missouri’s leisurely wine trails and comes with the bonus of rich fall colors, peaking in mid-October. Plan your itinerary with stops at Chaumette Winery and nearby Cave Vineyard 's biscotti bar (flavors range from traditional anise and almond to modern snickerdoodle and bacon chocolate chip). Then, head to Katy Trail State Park , the nation’s longest rails-to-trails conversion, before ending your adventure at Les Bourgeois Blufftop Bistro with a romantic meal overlooking the Missouri River Valley.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Saugatuck has been a haven for artists since the 19th century, with plenty of galleries, as well as beachy pursuits like paddlewheel boat cruises and open-air Jeep dune rides. Go for beer tastings at Saugatuck Brewing Company , and pick from dozens of apple varieties at Crane Orchards . This is bed-and-breakfast territory, and romantic options include The Belvedere Inn & Restaurant and Wickwood Inn , which hosts evening candlelight cocktails.

Make dinner reservations at The Southerner , an Appalachian comfort food restaurant founded by two-time James Beard-nominated chef Matthew Millar. Try the shrimp with grits or split Nana's fried chicken with your date.

Washington, Connecticut

With gardens, a pond, and woodland, the Mayflower Inn & Spa is a place for couples to take things slow. You can admire the changing leaves from a wraparound porch, dine on locavore dishes prepared by the culinary team, or enjoy a facial with organic local ingredients in the 20,000-square-foot spa. The 30-room inn also makes a convenient jumping-off point for exploring Mount Tom State Park or Lake Waramaug , antiquing in Litchfield Hills, or driving to the prerevolutionary village of Kent or the beautiful covered bridge at West Cornwall.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Pat & Chuck Blackley / Alamy

At the southern gateway of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, couples are greeted with crisp autumn air, golden aspens, a bundle of activities on their doorstep, and wildlife galore. The ultra-luxurious Amangani does its part to pamper visitors; you can lounge in deep soaking tubs or get an après-hike foot massage. The resort also arranges excursions, including private trips to Jenny Lake (a favored spot for elk, which mate in fall).

Alternatively, the Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa offers packages that take advantage of the season's renowned fly-fishing. Outings include a leisurely float trip along the Snake River for unbeatable views of the foliage, the grandeur of the Teton Range, and — of course — honey holes teeming with cutthroat trout prime for the catching .

Alys Beach, Florida

Katelyn Chef/Travel + Leisure

Mediterranean-style white buildings line the walkable streets of Alys Beach, a private community along a beautiful stretch of the Florida Panhandle. It’s easy to while away the day with your partner at the white-sand beach or the 100-foot, saltwater Caliza Pool and its candlelit alfresco restaurant . You can also go paddleboarding, bike in search of butterflies, or take a walk in the rare coastal dune lakes nearby. Autumn ushers in the lowest vacation rental prices of the year, moderate temperatures, and outdoor food and area wine events like Rosemary Beach Uncorked and the Seeing Red Wine Festival .

Kohler, Wisconsin

One of the Midwest’s most luxurious resorts, The American Club at Destination Kohler , happens to be strategically located two hours from Chicago and one hour from Milwaukee. You can retreat to a room in the Carriage House or splurge on the Eau de Vie Suite with a glass fireplace adjacent to your overflowing chromotherapy bath.

Kohler is known for golf courses like Blackwolf Run , and fishing is excellent in the fall. (For a more indulgent water experience, the spa offers hydrotherapy services, plunge pools, a whirlpool, and the sound of nearby waterfalls.) Hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and horseback riding are other popular pastimes. Enjoy a romantic dinner outdoors at Whistling Straits Clubhouse , which overlooks the golf course and Lake Michigan.

Greensboro, Georgia

Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds

Get acquainted with the southern town of Greensboro by strolling together down Main Street, past antique shops and elegant mansions. Along the shore of Lake Oconee, you’ll find The Ritz Carlton Reynolds , which lures couples with its plush rooms (featuring Frette linens and marble baths), 99 championship golf holes, and a 30,000-square-foot spa. Biking, kayaking, fishing, tennis, and exploring by Segway are also on the agenda. On a cool evening, warm up by the campfire for sophisticated s'mores.

Texas Hill Country

Kim Sayer/Getty Images

In Sonora, where the Texas Hill Country and the Chihuahuan Desert meet, JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa sets the scene for romance with horseback riding, wine tastings, live music, and spa packages. For a touch of true Texas, participate in a "cowboy cookout," whisky tasting, or guided stargazing while sharing a blanket with your significant other.

Take a road trip down Highway 290, aka the Texas Wine Trail , to discover dozens of wineries, such as William Chris Vineyards and Barons Creek Vineyards . Looking to make a day of it? Book a private wine tour leaving from Fredericksburg so you can both indulge in tastings.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Ravenwood Castle

Caves, sandstone cliff overlooks, waterfalls, and hiking trails like the Rim Trail at Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve are yours to explore in this section of southeastern Ohio . You can rent a rustic cabin at Hocking Hills State Park , which features rock formations like Old Man’s Cave, a narrow, deep gorge with waterfalls. Or, stay in a yurt or geodome at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls , where you can indulge in delicious meals and spa treatments. Add a dash of fairytale-like romance to your getaway at Ravenwood Castle , a 12th-century turreted hotel that hosts murder-mystery parties in the fall.

Rancho Santa Fe, California

Thirty miles north of San Diego , you’ll find the rarefied small town of Rancho Santa Fe, the former hangout of 1930s stars like Bing Crosby, with mansions, a world-class golf course, and traditional horseback riding to show for it. Still, the vibe here is laid-back. You can browse Main Street’s boutiques and the Rancho Sante Fe Farmers Market , held each Sunday morning.

At Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , explore coastal trails along dramatic sandstone bluffs. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe feels like a romantic country retreat, with cottages set along garden pathways. Kick back with cocktails on the croquet lawn in front, and take advantage of the couple’s spa suite with a private outdoor courtyard featuring a shower and tub.

GOBankingRates

8 Affordable US Trip Ideas So You Can Finally Plan That 2024 Getaway

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

If you have been aching to get away , now is the time to start planning your 2024 vacation. While international travel may still cost an arm and a leg, flights within the U.S. are pretty affordable. If you plan now, you may be able to sneak away for a long weekend for less than ever.

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At GOBankingRates, we asked travel experts from around the country where the best and most cost-efficient destinations will be next year. Here are 8 affordable trip ideas so you can finally plan that 2024 getaway.

Miami or Sarasota, Florida

Molly Egan, a travel and hospitality expert and founder of themollyegan , recommended Florida as an inexpensive destination.

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She stated, "For a beach getaway in Florida, such as Miami or Sarasota, plan a visit in October or early May to avoid peak times. You will avoid the snowbird crowds, spring breakers and heat, and best of all, snag a great lodging and flight deal!"

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Bozeman, Montana

Egan noted that for western adventures, she would suggest, "Bozeman, Montana, in June and October, which are slow times for the city, so that you can snag an affordable deal! The same timing goes for Western Colorado towns such as Vail, Colorado."

She continued, "The beginning of October is a great time to see the leaves changing, go hiking, feel like you have the whole mountain town to yourself and find the best lodging deals. If you are interested in skiing, the best time is late November or early December and early to mid-April (the skiing conditions vary, but the deals are the best)."

See: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Savannah, Georgia

Tracy Kennedy, an experienced travel advisor at Tasmania , noted, "If you're eyeing an affordable yet enriching U.S. trip for 2024, Savannah, Georgia, should be high on your list. The city is a perfect blend of traditional Southern charm and modern allure, and it's an ideal destination for a 2-3 day weekend getaway. Flights to Savannah are usually economical, with multiple carriers offering competitive rates."

She added, "Once there, you can enjoy quintessential forms of tourism such as exploring the historic district, strolling through Forsyth Park, and taking a riverboat cruise. The culinary scene is exceptional but won't break the bank, offering classic Southern dishes that are rich in flavor but easy on the wallet."

She also stated, "However, what sets Savannah apart is its unique offerings like the Sorrel Weed House Museum. This historic haunted house provides an unforgettable experience, especially if you're planning a trip around Halloween. Not only does it offer a glimpse into 19th-century life in the South, but it also has its share of ghost stories and paranormal activities, adding a thrilling element to your visit."

Asheville, North Carolina

Adrian Todd, an outdoor and travel expert, hiking coach and owner of Great Minds Think Hike , said, "One of my favorite places to go to is Asheville. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a great destination with various things to do."

He continued, "Asheville has some of the most breweries in and around than most places East of the Mississippi. You can hike in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit the Biltmore Estate, or explore the artsy downtown area."

Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Santa Fe is a really neat place," Todd also noted. He explained it is "full of neat adobe style houses and architecture. I recommend going to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, but to make sure to book way ahead in advance."

He also suggested, "Check out the oldest house and church in the US near the downtown area. Be sure to visit the Loretto Chapel to see the mysterious staircase and head to the downtown area during the market when all the natives come by to sell handcrafted items."

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Stanley, Idaho

For fishing and outdoor activities, Todd recommended Stanley, Idaho. He said it is "a small town located to the East in Idaho. It is a beautiful mountain time hugged by the Sawtooth Mountains. I highly recommend checking this place out during the summer months when it is a lot warmer."

He continued, "Go fishing along the Salmon River, hiking to Sawtooth Lake, and camping near Redfish Lake. There is so much to do for all outdoor lovers in this destination."

Nashville, Tennessee

"Nashville is historically known for its live music scene and offers a vibrant atmosphere and many free or affordable activities," stated Todd. "You can explore the city's music history, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and enjoy live music in honky-tonks," he said.

The hiking enthusiast added, "There are also a lot of things to do out in nature in Tennessee if the city life isn't your cup of tea. Check out the Great Smoky Mountains to visit the most popular and visited national park in the US."

Loveland, Ohio

"Loveland, Ohio, is known as the 'Sweetheart of Ohio,'" explained Krista Rose, marketing and communications coordinator for the City of Loveland. "We are the perfect destination for a Midwest trip on a budget! We are often told Loveland feels like a 'resort town' and 'time slows down here.'"

She continued, "Loveland is located about 15 miles north of Cincinnati and close to major highways including I-75 and I-71. We are known for our river and trails, making us a favorite trip for outdoor enthusiasts."

For outdoor adventure seekers she recommended, "the Little Miami Scenic Trail is an 80-mile bike/pedestrian trail across Ohio. This trail runs through the center of Loveland. Visit for a day of canoeing, kayaking, and outdoor adventure! After you explore the trail, explore Historic Downtown Loveland's unique shopping and dining. There are quaint AirBNBs and a boutique hotel in town."

You can learn more about the city by visiting LovinLifeLoveland .

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing, and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared with 2023 and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking for a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years in part because schools, especially in the South, are finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

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This summer also will be a good time to travel internationally; Hopper data shows fares to most destinations abroad are down compared with last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain mostly flat compared with the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 a night; better deals are available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan, and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices rise this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t increased much since last year and average $42 a day, according to Hopper.

The report shows most travelers rent a car for about four days, and warm-weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

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The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.