From fall foliage to romantic long weekend getaways, these are the greatest fall vacations in the United States. Take a look at these fall vacation spots! Fall is one of the loveliest seasons of the year since it is a breezy season highlighted by pleasant moments with our family and orange-hued landscapes. It’s time to hit the road and enjoy the fall colors as the trees change beautiful shades of crimson and orange. In light of this, we asked travel writers to name their top fall holiday spots in the United States. What’s the result?
An outstanding collection of enthralling fall places to add to your bucket list in the United States! We structured this post into three sections to make it easier to navigate: great places to visit in September, October, & November.
The Best Places to Visit in the Fall
In no particular order, here are the top fall vacations in the United States.
- Seattle, Washington
Seattle is known for a variety of things, including delicious food and pleasant scarf weather. Is there anything else we can say? The city is the ideal fall holiday destination in the United States! Not only that, but it’s also a very romantic American retreat. Seattle’s outdoor farmers’ markets are not only full of fantastic buys, but restaurants regularly adjust their menus to reflect local, seasonal products. Visiting Seattle for a single day? Then head to Cafe Mox to sip pumpkin beer, watch a cabaret show, or hang out indoors playing board games. If you have at least three days in Seattle, you can go trekking in the vibrant Japanese Garden or the Washington Park Arboretum. Aside from that, there are a plethora of wonderful treks near Seattle this time of year! And if this is your first visit to Seattle, you might want to check out this comprehensive guide on where to stay in Seattle, which includes information for travelers of all budgets and types.
- Chicago, Illinois
Fall is the ideal season to visit Chicago! Summer brings searing humidity and oppressive heat. On the other hand, Winters brings bitter cold, heavy snow, and disgusting muck, while spring is known for being rainy and cold. With highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s, September and October are the most pleasant months. You’ll be able to avoid some of the throngs if you visit Chicago in the fall. The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, and the lakefront walk are just a few of Chicago’s finest attractions. In the fall, you’ll still be able to enjoy all of these amazing tourist sites, but they won’t feel as touristy. Chicago is a special fall destination since it has such a rich haunted past to discover! Lincoln Park, the city’s current northside neighborhood, was built directly on top of the city’s first cemetery.
Graceland Cemetery in Chicago is another great haunted attraction to visit in the fall. Many renowned 19th century Chicagoans were buried here. The Chicago Botanical Gardens is the greatest site to visit if you want to observe the leaves change color. They’re about an hour north of the city, but they’re well worth the trip. If you’re willing to venture out into the Chicago suburbs, you’ll find lots of apple picking opportunities. Corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and other seasonal activities are common on these farms. Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park is a must-see.
- North Fork, Long Island, New York
For most people in the New York Tri-State area, the North Fork on Long Island is the ideal summer escape. However, when the weather cools and the days grow shorter, the North Fork becomes the most popular season of the year: harvest season. Over 55 vineyards may be found on the North Fork. There are lots to see and do during the harvest season, which normally begins in September. Harbes Family Farm organizes an autumn festival for families that includes activities such as pumpkin picking, hayrides, and even a scarecrow relay race. Also, their apple cider donuts are a must-try. They’re a favorite in the fall. If you’re searching for something truly special, visit one of the area’s many vineyards—the majority of them organize harvest events. Some will even let you assist in picking grapes from the vines. After you’ve finished selecting grapes, you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch and plenty of wine. Apart from all of the exciting events and activities on the North Fork, the journey itself is half the pleasure. Driving across the North Fork in the fall is a fantastic opportunity to take in the scenery. The trees put on a show in late September and October when their leaves change vivid shades of yellow, orange, and even crimson. It’s just breathtaking. When you’re finished, visit one of the many beaches that are open to the public during the off-season. They’re also a terrific place to watch the sunset after a day of activity. North Fork is one of the top fall vacation spots in the United States for these and other reasons.
- Black Hills, South Dakota
The Black Hills of South Dakota is the spot to go as the people from the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally disperse and the hot summer temps begin to dip. Of course, you’ll see the area’s showpiece, the famed Mount Rushmore, which is a stunning feat of artistry and engineering. Then go for a drive through the Black Hills to soak in the scenery. If you’re lucky, you’ll arrive during the bright fall foliage, but even if you don’t, the location is still beautiful. Custer State Park is one of the Black Hills’ most beautiful areas. The winding route through the Needles offers breathtaking views and drop-offs, as well as some spectacular rock spires. The gorgeous Sylvan Lake is one of several stunning lakes in the area.
The annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup can be seen if you visit in late September. To keep the herd of nearly 1,200 buffalo strong and healthy, cowboys (and gals!) drive them there. You can attend the Deadwood Oktoberfest if you arrive later. In this ancient old Western town, there are old-fashioned beer barrel races, Weiner dog races, and a variety of other interesting activities. South Dakota, particularly the Black Hills region, has a lot to offer in terms of sights and activities. Don’t forget to sample some of the local delicacies, such as fry bread, buffalo, and walleye fish. Though you can have a nice time at any time of year, the fall season is particularly enjoyable, with pleasant weather and exciting community gatherings to demonstrate how much this state has to offer.
- Door County, Wisconsin
In the fall, Door County, Wisconsin is a treat to visit! It’s not just a hotspot for fall foliage, but it’s also a great place to visit in the fall. Cave Point County Park has beautiful Lake Michigan coastal cliffs and a hiking trail that connects to more extensive Whitefish Dunes and State Park trails. It’s a great site for a picnic and has a half-mile hiking track, making it one of the top things to do in Door County. The Quarry County Park, which is located on the old Leathem and Smith Quarry site, has beautiful views and access to the water. Launch your boat, have a picnic or catch some fish right off the dock! Since the 1940s, the Koepsel’s farm market has been making handcrafted treats. It is a must-see tourist destination with a great assortment of delectable foreign items.
The King Island Lighthouse provides a breathtaking panoramic view, making the climb worthwhile. The Cookies Maze is a great place to go if you want to try some of the best sample ciders created from locally farmed produce! A road trip is the finest way to appreciate the area’s natural splendor. During the fall, the feeling of driving through is fairly popular, and the Door County coastal bay is a good site for a visit. 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!
- Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg, Virginia, is a fantastic spot to visit in the fall in the United States. This beautiful village provides a range of autumn activities to pass your time, with the colorful foliage accentuating its heritage. Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s biggest living history museum, is a centerpiece of the city. As historical reenactors go about their daily lives in the 18th Century Colonial-era town, immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s history and customs. Many of the buildings from when Williamsburg was a prominent city in the Colonial South can be explored. You may even take a Ghost Tour of the historic district at night. You can walk across the magnificent campus of the College of William & Mary, the United States’ second-oldest higher education institution, right next door to Colonial Williamsburg, as part of your October Williamsburg itinerary. Apart from its history, Williamsburg offers a variety of modern activities to enjoy. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a must-see for amusement park fans.
The park is transformed into Halloween’s Howl-O-Scream during the fall season. Walking through Busch Gardens, exploring their eerie shows, and strolling inside their haunted house will feel like an unearthly experience. You might even happen upon one of the various fall festivals depending on when you’re in town. Each year in October, the Williamsburg Fall Arts Festival, as well as Yorktown’s Market Days and Fall Festival Celebration and the Yorktown Wine Festival, all take place but make sure to double-check the dates before organizing your trip.
- Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania’s northeastern section are one of the top autumn locations in the country. For years, the Poconos have been a favorite vacation spot because there is something for everyone. Couples resorts, family-friendly hiking routes, and stunning fall foliage are all available. The Poconos are one of America’s top fall vacation spots and one of the best day trips from Philadelphia. It’s a great place to visit in the fall because it’s only two hours from Philadelphia and New York City.
Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the nicest spots to visit in the Poconos. In the area, you’ll find a slew of beautiful hiking routes. The most popular trail is a basic loop of easy hiking, but there are also several more moderate-difficulty hikes to choose from. Bushkill Falls, a private hiking area with a series of waterfalls, is another famous Poconos location. The tallest of the eight waterfalls reaches a height of 100 feet and is truly breathtaking. There is a cost to enter the paths of Bushkill Falls because the property and waterfalls are privately owned. For those who want greater facilities, the Poconos provide various campgrounds, cottages for rent, and hotels. You can even spend the night at a casino, such as Mohegan Sun in Wilkes-Barre or Mount Airy Casino in Mount Pocono. The mountains, environment, and fall leaves are all beautiful no matter where you stay.
- Woodstock, Vermont
Vermont’s autumn season is enchanting. While the entire state of New England is ablaze with color at this time of year, a few winding leaves drive in Vermont highlight the area’s peaceful, beautiful splendor. Woodstock, one of America’s most beautiful communities, is located in the heart of nature’s action. Sleepy Hollow Farm is one of the most picturesque pit breaks in and near Woodstock. This abandoned farm is an example of a very picturesque Vermontian location, which is especially beautiful in the fall and is visited by photographers. Many things in Woodstock are popular throughout the fall season, aside from going on foliage drives. Hiking, visiting a dairy farm and farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, cheese shops, and stopping at covered bridges are just a few of the activities available.
Mount Peg and Mount Tom are two treks that offer spectacular views of the town and its surroundings. To make up for the calories you burned on your hike, head directly to a local farm to table like Cloudland Farm for a mini feast. Don’t forget to swing by Sugarbush Farms or the nearby Quechee Gorge Village for some wonderful local cheese while you’re in the neighborhood. You may also pay a visit to the Billings Farm & Museum to discover how local dairy farms operate. Woodstock’s town center also features a few cafes, art galleries, and boutiques.
- Ouray, Colorado
Ouray, a historic mining town, is one of the top fall vacation spots in the United States. There are numerous hiking trails nearby, as well as geothermal activity. Furthermore, its natural beauty has earned it the moniker of “Switzerland of America.” The San Juan Forest and snow-capped mountains flank the lovely main street. Spend a morning, as we did on our Colorado road trip, browsing Ouray’s quaint stores and getting to know the welcoming inhabitants. Take the accessible Perimeter Trail for a bird’s eye view of the town. It’s one of Ouray’s most accessible hiking routes. Box Canyon Park is an 85-foot waterfall located just west of Ouray. Explore Cascade Falls Park’s network of trails and waterfalls for even more alternatives. Autumn is a great season to trek in the region because of the cooler weather and temperatures. We recommend Orvis Hot Springs as a place to unwind after a long day of hiking. This robe-free hot spring spa uses 100% natural lithium water that has never been processed. A drive along the Million Dollar Highway is another pleasant activity. The Million Dollar Highway, which runs from Ouray to Silverton, is one of the most beautiful routes in the country. Even so, the changing of the leaves is quite magnificent!
- Redwood National Park, California
Northern California’s Redwood National Park is one of the most stunning outdoor places in the United States. The Yurok, Chilula, and Tolowa tribes all have ancestral lands here. The landscape comes alive during the fall season when the forest of giants changes colors from green to yellow to orange and crimson. The shoulder season is when the weather is still warm and pleasant but the winter rains haven’t arrived yet. Plus, compared to the popular summer season, there are many fewer people. While camping is an excellent alternative, stay in the historic Hotel Arcata or the Requa Inn, both of which are owned by Indigenous people. Exploring the trees is, of course, one of the nicest things to do in the Redwood National Park. The Boy Scout Tree Trail and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail are two of the best hiking trails in the area, both of which give spectacular views of the towering trees. For a more accessible experience, drive through Avenue of the Gods and cruise beneath the trees from your vehicle. There are a few eateries in the Redwoods, but the Mad River Brewery restaurant is a must-visit. It’s one of the most popular spots, so make a reservation as soon as possible!
- Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Pacific Northwest is noted for its diverse landscapes and natural beauty. The Columbia River Gorge should be added to your ‘must-see’ list because it is one season that does not disappoint. This 80-mile canyon along the Columbia River (which separates Oregon and Washington) is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with breathtaking views, hiking, and wine tasting. When coming in the fall, you have the rare opportunity to see Hood River’s “Fruit Loop” during the harvest season. The Fruit Loop is a 35-mile picturesque trip that takes you from the Columbia River to Hood River and back, passing local farms, produce stalls, wineries, breweries, and other attractions along the way. To make the most of your journey, maps are available both online and throughout the circle. Picking apples and pears are the perfect fall activity, and Kiyokawa Orchards is the area’s crown treasure. Pumpkin patches and corn mazes, both of which are available at Packer Farm, add to the enjoyment of a fall visit. Stopping at one of the numerous wineries or a cider mill–The Gorge White House is full of charm and a range of unusual cider flavors–is a great way to break up and conclude your day. Cathedral Ridge Winery has a beautiful vista, and in the fall, the colors of the vines and trees merge to create a beautiful ombre effect. The Columbia River Gorge, located a little over an hour from Portland, Oregon, is an easy weekend or day trip that is made even more festive in the fall.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a modern and creative city with architecture that harkens back to the past. It’s a beautiful place to come at any time of year, but the fall season is particularly special. The temperature is ideal because it is cool enough to only require a light jacket while still allowing you to enjoy the warmth of the New Mexico sun. The Santa Fe National Forest is a great place to visit if you enjoy the outdoors. The National Forest is roughly an hour’s drive from downtown and is ideal for day hikes, camping, stargazing, and other outdoor activities. The foliage is spectacular during the fall season! The Aspen trees turn a lovely golden yellow color, and the woodland becomes a sea of gold and green. There’s also a lot to do inside! As the weather becomes cooler, visit one of the city’s many museums or Meow Wolf, an interactive art experience. Do you have a hunger pang? Try hatch chili, which is offered as salsa in practically every New Mexican restaurant. The season runs from the beginning of August until the end of September, so early fall is when you’ll find the finest of the best. Tomasita’s is a great place to go for traditional New Mexican food. For nearly 40 years, the family-owned restaurant has been servicing Santa Fe. Furthermore, this location is ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you’re thirsty, get one of their Margaritas and take in all of Santa Fe’s attractions.
- Portland, Oregon
Spend a few days in Portland, Oregon, for a fantastic autumn escape. Portland, located in the Pacific Northwest, is a wonderful site to enjoy the changing seasons. Around Halloween, you’ll be able to observe the lush green trees transition to oranges and yellows, be enthralled by the scary houses, and even go pumpkin picking. The Portland Aerial Tram offers the greatest views of the city’s autumn foliage. This tram also serves as a local mode of transportation to Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU), providing a swift 4-minute ride up a hill. You’ll be traveling up with students, patients, and other hospital staff in the fall, passing past beautiful scenery along the way. Portland is recognized for its oddities, but it’s also notorious for its terrifying haunted houses. You can go to The Fear PDX, Dick & Matt’s Halloween Horror Nights, and Fearlandia in October. It’s worth noting that some of these spooky houses have age limitations, so double-check before you go. Beginning in October, go to Sauvie Island’s Pumpkin Patch for u-pick pumpkins. Hayrides, a hay maze, and a corn maze are among the other festive fall activities available. Autumn decorations and Christmas products can be found in plenty in the gift shop. Portland, of course, participates in the fall celebrations and is a fantastic place to visit in the fall for a variety of reasons.
- Dallas, Texas
It’s no secret that the fall is the finest time to visit Dallas, Texas—the weather isn’t scorching, the tourist crowds have thinned, and the Texas State Fair is in full gear. If you only have one day in Dallas, make the most of it by taking in the sights and sounds of the Lone Star state. You should go to the Arboretum if you have at least a weekend in Dallas. There are great snacks from the veggie garden, Oktoberfest celebrations, and live music to enjoy. Furthermore, if you’re visiting Dallas with your significant other and looking for romantic activities to do in Dallas in the fall, you might want to share a large slice of pumpkin pie. A delectable dessert with a gingerbread crust and a pumpkin custard packed with cinnamon cloves is served at Emporium Pies. Is there anything else we can say? And the location is in Deep Ellum. You might wish to make the most of your stay by going on a mural hunt! If you’re looking for a place to stay in Dallas, keep in mind that many people come to see Big Tex, so you’ll want to reserve ahead of time. For a romantic getaway with your significant other, however, we recommend staying in a city treehouse, which is not only one of the most romantic cabins in Texas, but also an excellent Texas treehouse.
- Oregon Scenic Byways, Oregon
The picturesque byways of Oregon, as well as the state’s 30 million acres of woodland, are ideal for spotting fall foliage. Multnomah Falls on the Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway has been the subject of many beautiful autumn images. In September and October, though, the entire state is a riot of color and fun. Aside from the Columbia River Highway, here are three of the best Scenic Byways to see in the fall. The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway is a must-see in the fall. Make a point of visiting the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, where you may hike, cycle, boat, and fish amid a lush green forest with red and orange hues that contrast with the blue water. In the Silver Falls State Park region, where you can see many waterfalls with fall colors, there are a lot of red vine maples. Fall harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and other fall activities can be found in the surrounding Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine area.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming-Idaho-Montana
Late September and early October are good months for outdoor enthusiasts to visit Yellowstone National Park, a stunning place in Wyoming’s northwest portion. Consider the beautiful fall foliage set against Mount Washburn or the Gallatin Mountain Range. You’ll avoid the summer crowds and arrive just in time for the first fall snowfall. Visit Yellowstone National Park while the tourists are still few and the wildlife is plentiful. In fact, the mating season for elks and moose is in the fall. The male elk’s mating cry is unlike anything you’ve ever heard, sounding like a whistling roar. There are also trips available to see this phenomenon.
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a great place to visit in the fall because it’s right near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The mountain drives provide wonderful panoramas of the tree-covered environment as the leaves change hues. You can view further than virtually anywhere else from the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook. Spend some time in Ober Gatlinburg, where you may take a cable car ride on the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway for a bird’s-eye view of the area. The Gatlinburg Sky Lift, which brings you to the summit of Crockett Mountain for a stunning view, is definitely worth seeing. With the summer behind us, the weather has improved dramatically, with less humidity and cooler temperatures. Additionally, especially throughout the week, you will notice that the crowds thin out gradually. This is an ideal time to see the more popular attractions, such as Dollywood.
- Hudson Valley, New York
In the fall, there are so many lovely things to do in New York’s Hudson Valley. The first is leaf-peeping, of course. The valley is ablaze with beautiful fall color in mid-late October. Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Mountain Preserve, and the rail trails are all excellent places to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage. Arrive early because the parking lots can fill up quickly. Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian-era mishmash fantasy surrounded by magnificent fall color, is a great location to stay. A visit to a farm in the fall is also a great idea. Apple picking is available at several farms, making it a wonderful activity for your family holiday. For a more adult-oriented experience, several apple orchards also include cider houses, where visitors can select apples, sip cider, and dine on wood-fired pizza. Several farm booths also sell different seasonal fruits and vegetables. Several farms also provide hayrides and corn mazes for the youngsters to get lost in. Pumpkin patches can be found throughout the neighborhood, and they’re fantastic locations to go if you’re looking for the right pumpkin for Halloween. Croton-on-Hudson also has an outstanding Great Jack o’ Lantern Blaze.
- Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is unquestionably one of the top fall destinations, especially for October vacations. Salem is known as one of the spookiest towns in the United States, thanks to the 1690s Witch Trials. Any visit to Salem will teach you about this tragic period in American history, but the autumn offers its particular mood. Modern-day Salem has embraced its witchy history, despite its terrible past. Today, the village is brimming with charm and mystery. When you visit Salem, you may have an enchanted experience doing everything from shopping magic stores in the quaint downtown to attending a practicing witches tour. The greatest time to visit Salem is during October.
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the best destinations to visit in the United States during the fall, particularly around October. Albuquerque holds the world’s largest hot air balloon celebration, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, every October. Thousands of hot air balloons take to the sky, attracting visitors from all over the world. These balloons come in a variety of shapes, including penguins, cows, and automobiles. The sunrise hot air balloon flight and the twilight balloon illumination are two experiences not to be missed. The brave will even get the opportunity to travel in a hot air balloon. Albuquerque, however, has more to offer than the Fiesta. It is New Mexico’s largest city.
- Asheville, North Carolina
The ultimate southern fall retreat in Asheville, North Carolina. It is well-known for being a top cuisine destination in the United States, but it is also one of the best spots to enjoy the stunning display of fall color in the United States. Seeing the fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-see for visitors looking for things to do in Asheville. This historic highway runs for 469 miles and takes in the breathtaking splendor of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. In Asheville, you may get on the parkway and go for scenic walks. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for even more vibrant fall colors, or park along pullouts for sweeping photo-worthy views. Apple picking at one of Asheville’s many U-Pick farms is another delightful fall activity. Western North Carolina, as one of the largest apple producers, transforms into an apple lover’s paradise in the fall, with apple festivals and local farms opening their doors to the public for a fun day of apple picking, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes. After you’ve had your fill of apples, head to Downtown Asheville and walk the Urban Circuit, a 1.7-mile walking trail with 30 sights that illustrate the city’s architecture and history. A map of the route can be obtained at Pack Place in Asheville’s Pack Square.
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City is a fantastic spot to come in the fall since it offers both NBA basketball and collegiate football. Nearby, there are beautiful scenic roads with beautiful fall colors, and the city always has wonderful food and drink options. The NBA season starts in late October, so purchase your tickets and come see an Oklahoma City Thunder game. After the game, take a stroll around Bricktown, a terrific area for a night out on the town. You may watch a University of Oklahoma Sooner football game in Norman, a suburb of OKC if you prefer football to basketball. OU is consistently recognized as one of the greatest football teams in the nation. A spectacular college football game epitomizes fall in the United States. Because it is heavier in the autumn, authentic Oklahoma cuisine is ideal to consume. The official Oklahoma State Meal includes twelve items, including chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and a slice of pecan pie. While you probably won’t be able to finish the entire state supper, it’s a fantastic challenge to take on! Take a day trip to Talimena Scenic Drive for autumn colors. Autumn foliage is spectacular here, and it’s a terrific opportunity to get out and see some of the countrysides.
- Texas Hill Country
The majority of the United States is bracing for winter, but not Texas. No way. The weather is just beginning to cool down to a pleasant level, making it ideal for an autumn vacation in the United States to see some gorgeous sites in the Texas Hill Country! Of course, there are many more possibilities, but you might start your fall getaway in Texas by visiting San Antonio, the Alamo City. Then travel to Austin, Texas, the Live Music Capital of the World. Still, it’s the places you’ll see along the road that make this autumn holiday so memorable. The journey to Austin is peppered with little villages, lovely scenery, delightful vineyards, and several natural wonders.
- Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you’re seeking a place with unrivaled natural beauty and adventure, Colorado Spring is the place to go. It has some of the most spectacular scenic drives in the country and is home to one of the country’s most beautiful natural masterpieces. Nonetheless, Garden of the Gods is Colorado Springs’ crown jewel. It is a popular tourist attraction for both families and experienced mountain climbers. The hikes are not difficult. Any professional climber will find the red rock formations challenging. After spending some time at the park, head to Pikes Peak to take in the views of the mountains. The Denver Biscuit Company, El Poblano Mobile, and the Korean Garden are all great places to fill up and get a tummy full of robust food. You won’t be disappointed with any of these lunch or supper options because the amounts are big and delicious. Take a day trip to the Royal Gorge Bridge and walk across one of the world’s longest suspension bridges if you really want to see something different. The gorge may be seen from the trolley car that brings you across to the other side after you’ve walked the bridge. A trail bike through the Rockies alongside the Arkansas River is your ultimate experience.
- Yosemite, California
Yosemite in the fall offers cool weather, brilliant autumnal colors, and the opportunity to see more of the park with fewer visitors. This makes this an excellent time to visit. Yosemite National Park is open for the entire month of October, as well as some parts of November. Despite the early snowfall, some sites, such as Tioga Road, will close early. Yosemite has a lot of evergreen trees, but there are still some beautiful maples, black oaks, and Pacific dogwoods that put on a spectacular autumn show. The average temperature in this area is in the mid-fifties, making it an ideal time for hiking, but it may be chilly overnight. After the dry summer months, when Yosemite’s waterfalls aren’t as impressive, you’ll start to see more water in the park, which makes for a beautiful show. In Yosemite, the Ahwahnee Hotel is simply THE place to stay. It’s the only luxury hotel in the park, and it’s really lovely. Curry Village, a lovely site with cozy canvas-sided tent cabins and communal bathroom facilities, is a more budget-friendly option.
- Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, as one of New England’s largest cities, is one of the greatest fall holiday destinations in the United States. Boston, Massachusetts, is great for a weekend vacation because of its New England charm paired with a bustling seaside metropolis. The greatest time to visit Boston is in the fall, when the steamy summer season, which is loaded with graduations, comes to an end and the cooler fall weather brings a calmer atmosphere. This is the time of year when Boston’s leaves turn a golden-red color, and you don’t have to go far to see them!
- Catskill Mountains, New York
The Catskill Mountains are a picturesque region in upstate New York with forests and rivers that is a nice place to relax after a long day in the city. This spectacular fall destination is a must-see for anyone who wants to see the changing hues of the leaves. It’s a quick day or weekend vacation from New York City, being only 2 hours away. There are a variety of methods to take in this spectacular natural spectacle. Plan a stroll through the Catskills’ trails and mountains, or take a picturesque drive through the colorful landscape of small towns and villages. One of the best road trips in the United States is from New York via the Catskills. Hunter Mountain offers a variety of adventure activities, such as mountain biking and ziplining. The train trip along the historic Catskill Mountain railroad beautiful route is a must-do. The train excursion begins at Kingston Plaza’s Westbrook Station and takes 1 hour 15 minutes to go through the mountains and rivers, providing spectacular views of the fall foliage.
- Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park is unique in California since it is the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Aside from the park’s sheer size, Death Valley is home to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the United States, as well as dunes, badlands, desert landscapes, and mountainous terrain. Much of the park sits in the Mojave Desert, which is also home to the nearby Joshua Tree National Park, nearly four hours south. Death Valley is difficult to visit during the summer because it is mostly within the Mojave Desert, where temperatures regularly exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Fall is the best time to visit because the weather cools down and trekking is easier in the park. Hiking in Death Valley may be as easy or as challenging as you want it to be, with trails for all abilities. It starts with tiny half-mile hikes and progresses to 14-mile expeditions. Bring plenty of water, regardless of the season.
- Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of the best spots to see fall foliage in Colorado—and, for that matter, the entire United States.
Aspen, located in the midst of the Rocky Mountains, changes into a spectacular color pallet. With their golden color, its distinctive aspen trees complete the image. This mountain town has plenty of breathtaking vistas where you can see incredible fall colors, in addition to being a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts. Independence Pass, the highest pass in continental North America at over 12,000 feet, is the most picturesque route to Aspen. While this route will take you through some of the nicest fall foliage, it is far from the only spot where you can enjoy the beautiful fall colors. Many visitors go to the Maroon Bells, a pair of craggy mountains in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, in the fall. These iconic peaks are among the most photographed in North America, and the greatest time to see them in all their splendor is in the fall. You can even ride a shuttle bus from Aspen to Maroon Bells, which is great news.
- Mammoth Lakes, California
For fall travelers, the Eastern Sierra of California is a hidden gem, and Mammoth Lakes is its crown jewel. The majority of visitors come to Mammoth during the winter for skiing and snowboarding, or during the summer for hiking and mountain biking. Even so, the fall months are a fantastic time to visit. As the aspen leaves turn gold and the high peaks get their first coating of snow, the surrounding lakes and alpine meadows become dazzling panoramas. Choose from one of Mammoth’s many day hikes for outdoor enthusiasts. A local favorite is the Duck Pass Trail to Duck Lake, or go up to Mosquito Flats for one of the most magnificent treks in the Eastern Sierra on the Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes. A drive (or bike ride!) along Minaret Road to Minaret Lookout is another excellent opportunity to enjoy the fall beauty. Continue on the same route to Devil’s Postpile National Monument and the cascading Rainbow Falls, which are both geologically fascinating. Mammoth Lakes is a terrific spot for emerging and experienced photographers to snap photographs at any time of year, but visit in the fall to join the annual Mammoth Photo Festival. Learn how to picture starry skies, what it takes to be an adventure photographer, and how to tell a story with images from the experts. Mammoth Lakes is a year-round attraction, but the autumn months are particularly beautiful.
- Livermore, California
If you enjoy wine, Livermore, California is one of the greatest fall vacation destinations in the United States. Despite being one of the oldest wine districts in the United States and boasting multi-award-winning wineries, Livermore is not as well-known as other California wine regions such as Napa and Sonoma. Autumn is a lovely time to visit this hidden gem wine area. To begin with, the weather is ideal for wine sampling. During the day, the sun shines brightly, allowing tourists to pedal between Livermore wine samples or drink their wine alfresco This comfortable environment is ideal for participating in outdoor activities without being overheated. Second, everything in Livermore is still open, but there are fewer visitors. This means there aren’t many people and there aren’t many lines. The best part is that the winemakers and their crew have time to talk. Learning more about wine, such as the history behind its origin, is one of the most delightful aspects of drinking it. Finally, Livermore’s autumn colors are breathtaking. The hues of the leaves in the vineyards are shifting from gentle yellows to rich reds. With the cooler weather, the light in Livermore softens, bathing everything in a beautiful yellow hue.
- San Diego, California
Fall is a fantastic season to visit San Diego, or at the very least spend one day there. Although the summer throngs have dissipated, the weather remains pleasant, with typical highs in the low to mid-70s. You might even get a couple of days in the mid-80s if you’re lucky, which would be ideal for a day at the beach. With school back in session and people preparing for Halloween or Thanksgiving, San Diego is cooler, quieter, and overall a little more tranquil in the fall. Aside from the pleasant brisk but bright weather, you may save money on trip expenses like hotels and airfare. There are also several entertaining fall events in San Diego that are worth attending.
- Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is one of the most lovely locations in the United States for a fall trip. The days are shorter and the weather is moderate, with a small chill in the air. The weather is ideal for romantic strolls through Charleston’s famous gaslight walkways and lanes. The smoke pouring from the chimneys around you will add to the pleasant mood. While fall temperatures in Charleston are normally in the low 70s and upper 60s °F, locals find it cool and wrap up at night. This cool weather isn’t ideal for going to the beach, but it’s ideal for walking tours. Tours of old Charleston and pub crawls are two entertaining possibilities. For those looking for a good scare, Charleston is said to be a fairly haunted city, so you could go on a haunted pub tour or explore the Old City Jail after dark. Finally, now that summer is over, October ushers in a new dining season. This is ideal; it would be a shame to miss out on Charleston’s fantastic restaurant scene. Husk and Fig, as well as traditional brunch staples Magnolia’s and Poogan’s Porch, are high-end favorites. Whatever you do, make sure you have biscuits and pimento, either together or separately, before leaving Charleston.
- Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
It’s not hard to understand why this six-hour tour in Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular wildlife and glacier cruises. Glide through alpine and tidewater glaciers, observe rich marine species, and explore seabird rookeries in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. It’s possible to catch a glimpse of orcas, humpback whales, and minke whales as you drift by the towering ice cliffs of the Kenai Peninsula. Kenai Fjords National Park offers a variety of trips to suit everyone’s tastes.
The Bottom Line
It’s no secret that America boasts some of the most enchanting and inspiring fall destinations on the planet.
So book a fall vacation, or at the very least a weekend escape, in one of these locations and revel in the season’s allure!
