15 of the Best Fall Travel Destinations in the USA
View this post on Instagram
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park’s scenery in the fall is truly a spectacle, with deciduous trees casting a fiery glow against the backdrop of rugged coastlines.
Crisp air fills your lungs as you hike through vibrant forests awash with the warm hues of turning leaves. Acadia offers an array of activities, from scenic drives along the Park Loop Road to exploring the historic carriage roads on foot or by bike.
Don’t let the shorter days of fall deter you; this time of year in the park is less crowded, allowing for peaceful enjoyment of nature’s show.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences during this season. You can plan a visit to the Asheville Art Museum, where exhibitions such as “The Art of Food” have captured the hearts of visitors.
A trip to the Asheville Art Museum can be a refreshing complement to the natural beauty outdoors. If you’re seeking adventure, the mountains beckon with their array of colorful foliage.
Hikes to spots like Black Balsam Knob offer breathtaking views that encapsulate the essence of autumn.
View this post on Instagram
3. Hudson Valley, New York
As the leaves shift from green to vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows, the scenic drives through the Hudson Valley become truly mesmerizing. Wander through orchards ripe with apples, ready for picking, or navigate the twists and turns of a corn maze at one of the local farms.
Overhead, the Walkway Over the Hudson offers a unique perspective, with its span giving you a bird’s-eye view of the river winding through the landscape. Don’t miss the chance to explore the charming towns dotting the valley, where historic sites and cozy cafes promise a warm welcome on crisp autumn days.
4. Zion National Park, Utah
Drive through Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, with towering cliffs that offer a striking contrast to the fall foliage. Hike the famous Narrows, wade through the Virgin River, or enjoy the scenic views from the Canyon Overlook Trail, your time here rewards you with majestic sights at every turn.
Make sure to bring your camera; Zion’s unique blend of colors and landscapes in the fall is something you’ll want to capture!
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Your autumn adventure isn’t complete without exploring Santa Fe’s vibrant arts scene. Paseo Pottery, a working pottery studio where clay becomes art, invites you to roll up your sleeves and join a class.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Aspen Vista Trail, where the trees blaze with fall colors, providing a stunning backdrop for a refreshing hike. Santa Fe exudes a warmth that’s perfect for your fall getaway. Sip spiced cider or admire the local artwork!
View this post on Instagram
6. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains reward you with breathtaking views at Clingmans Dome, the tallest point in this national treasure. At 6,643 feet, the observation tower gives you a 360-degree panorama of the mountains’ autumn hues.
If you prefer quieter paths, the less-traveled Low Gap Trail offers a peaceful hike among the fall foliage. With each step, the crisp mountain air and the rustle of leaves underfoot remind you why this place is special in the fall.
7. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s fall charm is evident in places like the historic Pittock Mansion, where the views of the Cascade Range are absolutely spellbinding. Feel the crunch of leaves underfoot as you explore the miles of trails intertwined with Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
For a day trip filled with natural splendor, drive out to nearby Silver Falls State Park. There, you can combine the beauty of cascading waterfalls with the stunning palette of fall colors enveloping the landscape.
8. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona transforms during fall, with its red rock landscapes set against a backdrop of vibrant autumn leaves. Your hikes across the trails of Cathedral Rock will reward you with picturesque views. Feel the crisp air as you trek through Boynton Canyon.
Don’t miss the Jazz on the Rocks Festival, where the sound of music adds vibrancy to the air.
View this post on Instagram
9. Washington, D.C.
As autumn paints Washington, D.C. in vibrant hues, the city turns into a picturesque tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Visit Rock Creek Park, where the leaves create a dazzling backdrop. The National Mall, flanked by the Capitol and the Washington Monument, is especially stunning as the leaves change color.
Don’t miss the historic charm of George Washington’s Mount Vernon for an autumn day trip that feels like stepping back in time.
10. Nashville, Tennessee
Your trip to the music capital Nashville during the fall is an opportunity to witness the lush scenery at Percy Warner Park with trails lined in reds and oranges. The energy of the city pulses with football games and the warmth of bonfires.
A visit to the iconic Country Music Hall of Fame adds a touch of harmony to your fall adventure. Discover the historical sites and family-friendly attractions that make Nashville a captivating destination in the cooler months.
11. Charleston, South Carolina
You’ll relish the comfortable temperatures in Charleston, South Carolina while exploring historic sites. The Aiken-Rhett House Museum offers a window into the 19th century, revealing Charleston’s rich past. As the leaves turn, imagine taking a ghost tour, where tales of yore add a tingle to the crisp air.
Your autumn days here are filled with festivals, outdoor activities, and Southern cuisine that warms the soul. With every cobblestone step, Charleston in the fall is sure to capture your heart, offering a blend of tradition and festivity.
View this post on Instagram
12. Boston, Massachusetts
Your fall trip should definitely include leaf-peeping around Boston Common, the nation’s oldest public park, where the foliage peaks in mid to late October. Just a stone’s throw away, the historic streets complement the display with their own touch of charm.
While the surrounding areas might flaunt their colors a bit earlier, you’ll still catch a glimpse of autumn’s artistry right in the heart of the city.
13. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
As autumn paints Lake Tahoe with vibrant colors, the mild temperatures invite you to enjoy the great outdoors. Embrace the crisp air on a hike through lush trails or take a boat tour to soak in the stunning fall foliage reflecting off the tranquil waters.
With fewer visitors this time of year, you’ll love the serene, uncrowded spaces. Indulge in photography or relax while taking in the great outdoors!
14. Leavenworth, Washington
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active holiday, the mild October weather in Leavenworth, Washington offers ideal conditions for outdoor adventures like horseback riding and white-water rafting.
As the air turns crisp, local produce stands brim with fresh fruit, perfect for a snack during a scenic hike. In this Bavarian-styled village, autumn festivals brim with German food, live music, and a lively atmosphere. For wine enthusiasts, sampling the local wineries’ latest vintages is a must.
View this post on Instagram
15. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park offers a splendid display of autumn hues along the 105-mile Skyline Drive. The scenery here is captivating, with the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as a stunning backdrop. Your drive is paired with potential sightings of wildlife, adding excitement to your adventure.
Additionally, the park features numerous trails, including shorter hikes like Stony Man, ideal for soaking in the scenic views. Don’t miss the chance to witness fall foliage in its prime at Shenandoah.
