Autumn is truly one of the best times of the year for travel. Airfare has come down from its summer highs, the crowds have thinned, and the weather has mellowed out enough to be blissfully comfortable. Especially if you live in a region that doesn’t usually see much change in the seasons, this is your opportunity to experience quintessential fall destinations in all their golden glory. And if you’re dreaming about a fall getaway this year, now’s the time to start planning.
If you’re not sure where to go for the best autumnal experience, we’ve got you covered. From quaint small towns surrounded by gorgeous fall foliage to historic cities that pull out all the stops for spooky season, there are so many incredible fall destinations within the U.S. that are absolutely worth a visit this time of year. Pick one (or two!) from this list and start packing that suitcase full of chunky sweaters ASAP.
Fall foliage destinations
The array of red, orange, and yellow leaves is the true star of the season. Take advantage of peak leaf-peeping season in these gorgeous fall foliage destinations, which also offer classic autumn experiences like hiking, orchard visits, and syrup tastings.
Portland, Maine
I went to college in central Maine, so I will 100 percent be the first to admit that I have a bias toward New England in the fall. If you’ve never been to Maine, I suggest taking a fall trip to Portland. The downtown area is absolutely delightful and filled with all kinds of bars, restaurants, vintage shops, and museums. If you love eating, drinking, and art, it’s the ideal city for you! Pay a visit to the Portland Museum of Art, grab dinner at Duckfat (known for its crispy, fried-in-duck-fat Belgian fries), and cap off the night with cocktails at Blyth & Burrows. If you have access to a car, drive over to the Portland Head Light—the quintessential lighthouse you often see in Maine photos—and snap some photos as you take in the fall foliage.
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County may be best known as a summer escape with its breezy lakefront and calm waters, but fall in the peninsula is really where the magic happens. Crisp air, fiery foliage, and fewer crowds make this lakeside destination both enchanting and more affordable than during peak season. Stroll through rows of golden leaves at Ellison Bluff County Park, then stop at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Market for locally sourced wine, cider, and other seasonal treats. Whether your adventure calls for hiking, tasting, or simply soaking in the magical views with a cozy chair and blanket, Door County in the fall offers a quaint, whimsical escape that feels like your favorite cottagecore book come to life.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Visiting the Berkshires in the fall offers a quintessential autumn experience. It’s perfect for a trip that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie, filled with vibrant fall foliage, trips to pumpkin patches, and apple picking. One of the best ways to enjoy the crisp fall weather and stunning autumn colors is by hiking Monument Mountain, a popular 3.8-mile trail with breathtaking views at the summit. Once you’re exhausted from your trek, head to Hilltop Orchards for a fresh apple cider donut. The region consists of charming towns like Great Barrington, West Stockbridge, and Williamstown, which are all great for a day trip or a leisurely drive. For an ideal rainy day activity, visit the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, an incredible museum that’s well worth your time.
Telluride, Colorado
If you’re looking to spend some time in the great outdoors this fall, look no further than colorful Colorado. The mountain town of Telluride is especially gorgeous this time of year and the perfect spot to see fall color on full display. There are tons of trails in the area if you’re into hiking or mountain biking; otherwise, a ride on the (free!) gondola is a spectacular way to take in the scenery. Just keep in mind that the gondola only runs through mid-October, so plan your getaway in early autumn so you don’t miss this attraction. Spend the rest of your days strolling and shopping through the picturesque Mountain Village, trying out all the amazing dining options, or sipping cold beer brewed using Rocky Mountain snowmelt at Telluride Brewing Company.
Woodstock, Vermont
We couldn’t make a list of dreamy fall destinations without touching on glorious Vermont. The town of Woodstock is located about two hours away from Vermont’s largest city of Burlington. Known as one of the prettiest towns in the U.S., Woodstock is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy classic fall activities like apple picking, hiking, maple syrup tasting, and more. You’ll also want to spend plenty of time wandering the picturesque village and shopping along the main street. And no trip to Vermont is complete without a stay at a cute B&B. Fortunately, there are plenty to choose from in the Woodstock area!
Asheville, North Carolina
Surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a charming town. It’s home to the gorgeous Biltmore Estate, which was built by George Vanderbilt and is considered America’s largest home. The estate offers tons of activities, including indoor tours, gardens, a winery, and more. So you’ll want to carve out a decent amount of time to explore this fascinating place. If you’re less into wine and more into beer, Asheville has breweries galore. Enjoy a pint or two, and then cap off your visit at the Asheville Pinball Museum, which boasts over 75 pinball machines plus other games.
Fall city destinations
The countryside shouldn’t get all the glory in the fall. There’s something magical about strolling city streets in crisp weather, admiring bursting mums on front stoops and storefronts decked out with leafy garlands. Sip a pumpkin spice latte from a local café while you explore these fall city destinations.
Seattle, Washington
If you’re a fan of Nora Ephron movies, Seattle in the fall brings the ultimate cozy vibes. Crisp air wisps through the coffee shop-lined streets, golden leaves begin to fall, and the calmer energy over the city is perfect for exploring. Take your pick of local coffee shops to jumpstart your day, then wander through the famous Pike Place Market for local treats and soak in the vibrant autumn colors at Seattle’s Washington Park Arboretum. With cooler temperatures and ever-changing scenery, fall is the perfect season to enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace compared to the bustling summer months. The weather does start to cool down this time of year, so pack a trench coat to accompany you through the streets.
New York, New York
“Don’t you love New York in the fall? It makes me want to buy school supplies.” There’s a reason this classic line from the movie You’ve Got Mail still rings true after more than 25 years. New York City in the fall is simply the best. Plan a visit for October, when you can wander around the Upper East and West Side and take in the beautiful brownstones decked out for Halloween. Pop downtown and spend a leisurely Saturday or Sunday morning searching for treasures at the Chelsea Flea Market. Tour the Met for an afternoon, and then take a walk in Central Park while enjoying the sound of leaves crunching underfoot. Cap off the weekend with drinks at one of these Instagram-famous West Village hotspots: Dante, Bar Pisellino, or Boucherie.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is an often-overlooked destination that’s totally worth a visit when fall arrives. Home to landmarks like Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House, Philly is chock-full of history. Simply wander the streets of Old City, and you’ll practically be able to taste the 18th-century charm. Wander down Elfreth’s Alley, which dates back to 1703 and features 32 delightfully colorful homes and a small museum. The street looks even more stunning with autumn leaves on the ground. Foodies won’t want to miss Reading Terminal Market, an expansive indoor farmers’ market offering all kinds of culinary creations. Afterward, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you’ll find the famous “Rocky Steps.” For dinner, the White Dog Cafe in University City—a sophisticated, dog-themed restaurant—is a can’t-miss. Be sure to order the pretzel bread!
Washington, D.C.
If you haven’t spent time in Washington, D.C., since that eighth-grade field trip, it’s time to return. I grew up in the D.C. area and spent five years living in the city after college, so I can attest that there is so much more to see and do than what you hear about in school. In the fall, I love strolling through Georgetown and nearby Old Town Alexandria, where the Halloween decorations are top-notch. Both neighborhoods also offer ghost tours, if that’s your thing!
If you’re looking for a more small-town feel, stay at a bed-and-breakfast like the Tabard Inn. Located in the buzzy Dupont Circle neighborhood, the hotel offers a delicious selection of food and drink. (Don’t miss their chocolate chip pancakes in the morning.) For a touristy activity that’s a bit off the beaten path, check out the Hillwood Estate. Arrive with a picnic lunch in tow (from Foxtrot Market, Tatte, or Call Your Mother Deli), and enjoy a meal on the Hillwood grounds, which are particularly stunning in autumn.
Spooky fall destinations
While Salem, Massachusetts is perhaps the best-known (and most overcrowded) fall destination for Halloween, there are plenty of other cities with haunted histories worthy of a visit. If your favorite part about fall is leaning into the spookiness of the season, book a getaway to one of these fall destinations for a weekend of ghost tours and eerie energy.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah has no shortage of haunted sites and eerie tales, making it an unforgettable experience for those brave enough to join. For a glimpse into the city’s spookiest legends, take an evening tour through Savannah’s historic district aboard the Trolley of the Doomed. Or venture into Bonaventure Cemetery, where Southern Gothic tombstones and moss-draped trees combine for a hauntingly beautiful ambience.
Beyond its spooky sites, Savannah has lots to offer in the light of day as well. The city is best experienced on foot, so you can fully appreciate its beautiful architecture and picturesque parks. Be sure to visit Broughton Street for some shopping, especially at The Paris Market, a two-story shop inspired by France’s open-air markets. Afterward, enjoy a sweet treat at Leopold’s Ice Cream, a beloved local spot since 1919. In the evening, dine at The Olde Pink House, famous for its Southern cuisine.
New Orleans, Louisiana
As one of America’s most haunted cities, New Orleans is the ideal fall destination for spooky season. Dress up in your best costume and stroll through the French Quarter to admire all the historic homes decked out in Halloween decorations. For tales of local history and hauntings, you’ll find tons of options for ghost tours—including ones that dive into vampire lore. Round out your scary sightings with a visit to the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where you’ll find above-ground tombs for famous New Orleans figures.
New Orleans might be most often associated with late nights and high-energy events like Mardi Gras, but the city also has plenty of more low-key activities to fill your itinerary. Of course, you can’t visit NOLA without sampling beignets (and getting covered in powdered sugar in the process). Café du Monde is the classic spot to try out this New Orleans specialty. The city’s music scene is also one of the most robust in the country, with plenty of jazz shows to catch and street musicians to enjoy as you stroll the iconic Bourbon Street.
Estes Park, Colorado
Not only is Estes Park, Colorado, located just outside Rocky Mountain National Park and its jaw-dropping foliage, but it’s also where Stephen King found inspiration for his 1977 horror novel (and later film), The Shining. The Stanley Hotel was built in 1909, and King famously stayed there as a guest in 1974, when he had a nightmare that sparked the idea for perhaps his most famous story. Now, the hotel offers daytime heritage tours and nighttime ghost tours. Plus, hidden below the hotel grounds is Aiden Sinclair’s Underground, a speakeasy theater where magicians perform every weekend.
From mid-September to early October, the countless Aspen trees in Estes Park turn gold, making for stunning hikes, drives, and bike rides. Plus, leaf-peeping coincides with elk mating season, so you’ll be able to watch herds grazing in meadows and maybe even hear their echoing calls. October also brings Pumpkin and Pilsners, a free festival where you can hear live music, pick pumpkins, and drink Pilsners, of course.
St. Helens, Oregon
Did you know Halloweentown is a real place? Well, sort of. The beloved 1998 Disney Channel Original Movie was filmed primarily in St. Helens, Oregon, and every fall, the riverside town leans into the spooky spirit. For the whole month of October, St. Helens hosts a Halloweentown-themed festival, complete with the iconic giant pumpkin in front of City Hall. Enjoy food and drink vendors, a haunted house, and even special appearances by actors from the classic films.
If you’re also a Twilight fan (Team Jacob for life), you can visit filming locations from the 2008 movie, including Bella and Charlie Swan’s house, in St. Helens, too. Plus, many of the “Port Angeles” scenes were also filmed around town, including the bookstore Bella visits for vampire research, the shop where her friends try on prom dresses, and the restaurant where Edward and Bella dine.
READ: 6 Real-Life Places You Can Visit Inspired by Your Favorite Fall Movies and TV Shows
Unexpected fall destinations
While the East Coast is dotted with charming small towns à la Gilmore Girls that make perfect fall getaways, that’s not the only region that shines during this season. These fall destinations aren’t as obvious but are equally as delightful to experience—plus, more affordable and less crowded.
Lutsen, Minnesota
The North Shore of Minnesota offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior, and Lutsen is the perfect home base to experience the area. Autumn arrives early up north, so plan your fall getaway for sometime between mid-September and early October. Rent a room or condo at Caribou Highlands Lodge, where you’re just steps away from the Summit Express Gondola. The ride up Moose Mountain offers panoramic views of the fall colors in all their glory and the expansive lake beyond. Sit on the mountaintop restaurant’s deck to sip and snack while savoring the scenery.
If you prefer exploring the great outdoors on foot, hike the Oberg Mountain Loop, an under-three-mile trail through dense maple forests that burn red in autumn. Stop at a few (or all!) of the eight overlooks along the path to take in the colorful rolling hills. After a crisp day outdoors, wine down (pun intended) with live music and drinks at the North Shore Winery.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
If you want a fall getaway with equal parts beautiful scenery and small-town charm, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is the trip for you. While in town, don’t miss the Garvan Woodland Gardens, a botanical garden that’s home to the Anthony Chapel, a stunning architectural gem you may have seen on Pinterest, and the Bob & Sunny Evans Treehouse, a unique structure unlike anything else.
After spending some time in nature, stroll down Bathhouse Row to explore a collection of bathhouses built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. These bathhouses were constructed over natural hot springs, where the water was pumped into soaking tubs for therapeutic baths. Many of the bathhouses have been converted into shops and restaurants, but The Buckstaff still offers the traditional bathing experience. If you’re not in the mood to soak, enjoy a beer at Superior Bathhouse Brewery instead, or make your way to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for incredible 360-degree views of the town. For a casual dinner, grab a slice at Deluca’s Pizza, often touted as “the best in Arkansas.”
Charlottesville, Virginia
Though it’s best known as home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is way more than just a college town. If you’re a wine lover, this city should be high on your list of fall destinations to visit. Among the many wineries nearby, some favorites include Barboursville Vineyard, Pippin Hill Farm, and Bold Rock Carter Mountain (perfect for fans of cider). When you return to town, take some time to explore the UVA grounds. Even if your college days feel like a distant memory, you’ll love wandering around this scenic campus. Then, grab a bagel from Bodo’s and head to the historic Downtown Mall, a pedestrian mall with shops and restaurants galore. On your way out of town, drive over to Shenandoah National Park, where you can take in beautiful foliage and snag some postcard-worthy photos.
Napa Valley, California
California’s wine country is gorgeous in the sun-soaked summer months, but it’s arguably even better in the fall. The golden vines are in peak harvest, and the crisp fall air makes relaxed evenings by the fire feel ultra-reviving. And with the mild temperatures lasting through October, it’s a perfect escape before the holiday rush begins. Stay in a boutique hideaway with sweeping vineyard views, then hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Trolley for a ride to the fairytale-esque Castello di Amorosa. Even if wine isn’t your drink of choice, there’s still plenty of beauty to savor, from the trails of Skyline Wilderness Park to the Oprah-approved artisan breads at Model Bakery.
Sarah Lyon, Contributing Beauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sarah Lyon is a freelance writer and interior design enthusiast who currently lives in New York City. Her work focuses primarily on design and lifestyle topics ranging from decorating tips to beauty advice to travel guides.
