20 Stunning Fall Destinations in the USA You’ll Love
Trying to plan the perfect fall getaway? From iconic leaf-peeping routes in New England to colorful national parks out west, there are many amazing fall destinations in the USA worth adding to your travel plans.
Some spots are famous for their vibrant fall colors, while others shine with seasonal festivals, harvest experiences, or just really great sweater weather.
I’ve rounded up 20 of the best fall vacations in the USA, including a mix of charming towns, scenic road trips, and underrated gems. For each place, you’ll find tips on where to go, what to do, and why it deserves a spot on your fall bucket list!
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
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Best Fall Destinations in the USA
1. Stowe, Vermont
If you’re dreaming of a classic New England fall, Stowe is one of the best places to go. It’s that picture-perfect Vermont town with a cute main street, white church steeples, mountain views, and more foliage than your camera roll can handle.
Peak season usually hits in late September or early October, and the colors here are unreal. You can hike to a viewpoint like Stowe Pinnacle or drive through Smugglers’ Notch for winding roads and dramatic mountain passes. Just be prepared for traffic on weekends because it gets busy!
Definitely stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill for warm cider and donuts. They also sell maple syrup and other Vermont-made goodies that make great souvenirs. If you have extra time, the Trapp Family Lodge has beautiful views and walking trails, too.
Stowe is easily one of the most iconic fall destinations in the USA. Between the foliage, the food, and the mountain views, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to every fall!
Read more about Stowe:
- 10 Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont in the Fall
- 3 Days in Stowe, Vermont: The Perfect Fall Itinerary
2. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen might be best known for skiing, but it’s seriously underrated as a fall destination. Before the snow hits, the mountains around town light up with golden aspen trees, and the contrast with the deep green pines and rugged peaks is incredible.
The last two weeks of September are usually peak foliage, and one of the most popular things to do is visit the Maroon Bells. You can take a shuttle or drive up with a reservation, then walk the easy trail around Maroon Lake. The views are straight out of a postcard!
In town, you’ll find great restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops with cozy fall vibes. Aspen also makes a great base for scenic drives and hikes. Independence Pass and Castle Creek Road are both worth exploring if you have the time.
If you’re looking for fall destinations in the USA that offer mountain views, fresh air, and fewer crowds than the winter months, Aspen should be on your list.
3. New York City, New York
New York might not be the first place that comes to mind for fall foliage, but autumn is actually one of the best times to visit. The weather is crisp and comfortable, the parks are full of color, and the energy of the city feels just right!
Central Park is the obvious fall highlight, with its winding paths, bridges, and trees turning every shade of yellow, red, and orange. Grab a coffee, go for a long walk, or rent a bike to explore more of the park while the leaves are at their peak.
Prospect Park in Brooklyn is also a great and less crowded alternative.
Beyond the parks, fall is packed with events and seasonal treats. You’ll find outdoor markets, Halloween-themed pop-ups, and cozy cafes all over the city. It’s also a great time to visit museums or catch a Broadway show without the summer crowds.
If you’re looking for one of the best fall vacations in the USA that blends iconic sights with a real seasonal vibe, New York City definitely delivers.
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the fall, especially if you’re craving that rare mix of mountains, ocean views, and bright foliage.
This national park is one of the top fall destinations in the USA for good reason, and it really comes alive in early to mid-October, when the colors are at their peak.
One of the best ways to explore is by driving the Park Loop Road, which takes you past Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and several scenic overlooks. You can also hike one of the shorter trails like Jordan Pond Path or Gorham Mountain for great views without needing to be super experienced.
If you’re up for an early start, watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is worth it. Just be sure to book a vehicle reservation in advance, since timed entry is required during peak season.
After a day of exploring, Bar Harbor is the perfect spot to grab dinner and wander through town.
Read more about Acadia:
5. White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains are one of the best places in New England for a fall road trip. The scenery is next-level in early October, with endless forests of red, orange, and yellow stretching across the mountain ranges.
The Kancamagus Highway is the star of the show. This scenic drive runs for about 35 miles between Lincoln and Conway and is packed with overlooks, hiking trails, and photo stops. A few of the most popular are Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and the Pemigewasset Overlook.
If you’re up for a bit of a climb, the Artists Bluff trail is short but gives you one of the best foliage views in the state.
You can also ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway or take the Aerial Tramway at Cannon Mountain if you’d rather enjoy the views without hiking.
This is one of those fall trips in the US where you could easily spend several days hopping between towns, waterfalls, and hiking spots. Just try to plan midweek if you can. The crowds on weekends can get intense!
Read more about the White Mountains:
- 10 Best Things to Do in the White Mountains, NH in the Fall
- Driving the Kancamagus Highway in the Fall: Best Stops + Tips
6. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
If you’re looking for a fall trip that mixes waterfalls, hiking, and stunning foliage, the Columbia River Gorge is hard to beat.
It’s just a short drive from Portland, but once you get into the heart of the gorge, it feels completely wild and peaceful.
Mid to late October is usually the best time to catch the fall colors. The trees that line the cliffs and riversides turn golden and orange, and the cooler weather makes hiking a lot more enjoyable.
Popular stops like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahclella Falls are all fairly easy to reach and look even more dramatic with the fall leaves surrounding them.
This is one of those fall getaways in the USA where you can take things at your own pace. Hit a few scenic trails, go waterfall hopping, and end the day with cider and orchard views in nearby Hood River.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the best cities to visit in the fall, especially if you want a mix of colorful foliage, historic charm, and walkable neighborhoods. The air is crisp, the parks are glowing with color, and the city feels especially alive in October.
Start with a stroll through Boston Common and the Public Garden, where the trees turn shades of yellow and red around the lagoon.
From there, you can walk the Freedom Trail, wander through Beacon Hill, or explore the brownstones along Commonwealth Avenue. Fall is also the perfect time to take a day trip to nearby Salem if you’re into Halloween season.
You’ll find cozy cafes, harvest-themed farmers markets, and seasonal treats all over the city. If you’re planning fall trips in the US and want a destination that offers both city vibes and beautiful scenery, Boston is a solid pick.
Read more about Boston:
- Top 10 Best Things to Do in Boston for First-Timers
- Weekend in Boston: The Perfect 2-Day Boston Itinerary
- Where to Stay in Boston: Best Hotels for Every Budget
- 10 Best Day Trips from Boston for a Quick Getaway
8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Smokies have one of the longest fall color seasons in the country, which makes them a great option if you’re planning an October or even early November trip. With rolling mountains covered in red, gold, and deep orange, this park is a favorite for leaf-peeping and scenic drives!
One of the best ways to take it all in is by driving Newfound Gap Road, which cuts through the park and offers incredible views. Cades Cove is another popular area with wildlife, mountain backdrops, and a one-way loop road that’s especially pretty in the fall.
For hiking, trails like Alum Cave, Clingmans Dome, and Laurel Falls are all beautiful without being too challenging.
This is one of the best fall destinations in the US for a mix of nature, color, and cozy mountain towns. Gatlinburg and Townsend both make great bases, with cabins, southern food, and easy access to the park.
9. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is one of those small towns that feels like it was made for fall! With covered bridges, historic homes, and quiet country roads lined with colorful trees, it’s easily one of the prettiest places to visit during foliage season.
Mid-October is usually the best time to catch peak color. You can take a walk through town, visit the iconic Middle Covered Bridge, or head just outside the center for short hikes like Mount Tom.
Billings Farm & Museum is also worth a stop for a classic fall experience, especially if you’re into animals, apple cider, and old barns.
The town itself is full of charm, with cute shops, cozy cafes, and a laid-back pace that makes it perfect for a relaxing fall getaway.
Read more about Woodstock:
- 10 Best Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont in the Fall
- How to Spend a Perfect Fall Weekend in Woodstock, Vermont
10. Dixville Notch, New Hampshire
Tucked away in New Hampshire’s Great North Woods, Dixville Notch feels completely untouched. It’s far less crowded than the White Mountains, but the foliage is just as dramatic!
The steep cliffs, mirror-like lakes, and quiet roads make it a dream spot for fall photography.
The drive along Route 26 through the notch is the main highlight. You’ll get panoramic views of bright fall colors surrounding the valley, with Table Rock rising up in the middle of it all.
If you’re up for a short but steep hike, the trail to the top is quick and rewards you with one of the most iconic views in the region.
Early October is typically peak season here. It’s one of those fall trips in the US that still feels off the beaten path, especially compared to southern New Hampshire or Vermont.
Read more about Dixville Notch:
11. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is one of the best places in the Mid-Atlantic to see fall foliage, especially if you want easy access to mountain views without long or difficult hikes.
The park stretches along the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its colorful ridgelines and scenic overlooks in October.
Skyline Drive runs the length of the park and is the main attraction. There are nearly 70 overlooks where you can stop and take in the views, plus plenty of short trails if you want to stretch your legs.
Hawksbill and Stony Man are two of the most popular hikes and offer amazing views without too much effort.
Shenandoah is one of the top US fall travel destinations for a reason. The foliage, peaceful vibe, and easy-to-navigate layout make it a great choice for a weekend road trip.
12. Salem, Massachusetts
If you’re into all things Halloween, Salem is one of the most fun places to visit in the fall! The whole town leans into its spooky history, especially in October, when it’s packed with haunted tours, costume parades, and seasonal events almost every day of the month.
Beyond the witchy stuff, Salem is also just a really charming coastal town with historic homes, a walkable downtown, and waterfront views. You can visit the Salem Witch Museum, stop by the House of the Seven Gables, or join a walking tour to dive into the town’s past.
It does get busy during peak season, so try to plan a weekday visit if you can. It’s festive, quirky, and unlike anywhere else in the fall.
Read more about Salem:
13. Lake Placid, New York
Tucked in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is a great pick for a fall getaway that combines mountain views, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure.
The foliage here usually peaks in late September to early October, and the scenery around the lakes and High Peaks is absolutely stunning.
There are plenty of ways to take in the views, from driving the Olympic Scenic Byway to hiking one of the nearby trails. Cobble Hill is an easy one with a great overlook, and Mirror Lake offers a peaceful, flat walk right in town.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try a gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain for a sweeping view of the Adirondacks.
The town itself is cozy and walkable, with cute shops, cafes, and a lakefront that’s perfect for a slow afternoon.
14. Portland, Maine
Portland is a great little city to visit in the fall. The air gets crisp, the crowds thin out, and it’s the kind of place where you can spend the day walking around, eating good food, and checking out the waterfront without feeling rushed.
The Old Port is the main area to explore, with cobblestone streets, local shops, and tons of cafes and restaurants. From there, it’s easy to visit a few nearby lighthouses.
Portland Head Light is the most famous, and it looks especially nice with a bit of fall color around it. Spring Point and Bug Light are close by too and worth a quick stop.
Fall is also a great time to catch the end of farmers market season or try a seasonal dish at one of the many local restaurants.
If you’re into coastal towns with good food and a chill vibe, Portland is one of the best fall destinations in the USA to keep on your radar.
Read more about Portland:
- 10 Best Things to Do in Portland, Maine for First-Timers
- One Day in Portland, Maine: The Best Day Trip Guide
- The Perfect 3 Days in Portland, Maine Itinerary
15. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
If you’re looking for a scenic fall drive, it’s hard to beat the Blue Ridge Parkway! This stretch of road winds through the mountains of western North Carolina and Virginia, and it’s packed with overlooks, hiking trails, and incredible views pretty much the entire way.
Peak foliage usually hits in mid to late October, depending on elevation. Some of the best stops include Craggy Gardens, Rough Ridge, and Linn Cove Viaduct.
Even if you’re not into hiking, many of the viewpoints are right off the road and easy to access.
There are plenty of small towns along the way where you can grab lunch or stay the night. Boone, Blowing Rock, and Asheville are all good options.
For anyone planning fall trips in the US that involve a bit of road tripping, this route should be high on your list.
16. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires are a great spot if you want a mix of fall foliage, cute small towns, and artsy things to do.
This part of western Massachusetts is full of rolling hills, quiet back roads, and old New England charm, especially in towns like Lenox, Stockbridge, and Great Barrington.
October is the best time to visit for peak color. You can go for a drive, stop by a farm stand, or hike one of the shorter trails like Monument Mountain or Olivia’s Overlook.
Mount Greylock is the highest point in the state and offers amazing views if you’re up for a longer hike or want to drive to the top.
There’s also plenty of culture mixed in. Museums, historic homes, and even a few good bookstores and cafes make it a nice place to slow down and enjoy the season.
17. Catskills, New York
The Catskills are a classic fall escape, especially if you’re coming from New York City. The mountains are packed with color by early to mid-October, and there’s a great mix of scenic drives, waterfalls, and short hikes that make the area super easy to explore.
Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most popular spots and only takes about 20 minutes to reach on foot. There are also some beautiful overlooks along Route 23A and plenty of quiet roads to just drive and enjoy the views.
If you’re into hiking, trails like Overlook Mountain or North-South Lake are both worth the effort.
Small towns like Phoenicia, Tannersville, and Hudson make great home bases. You’ll find cozy cabins, general stores, and lots of local spots to grab a bite.
18. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley is one of the most accessible national parks in the country, and fall is one of the best times to visit.
It’s located between Cleveland and Akron, which makes it easy to get to for a weekend trip, but it still feels surprisingly quiet and wooded once you’re inside the park.
Brandywine Falls is the main attraction, especially with fall colors in the background. The Ledges Trail is another good option, with short loops and cool rock formations along the way.
If you prefer something more relaxed, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. It runs through the park and draws a lot of visitors during peak foliage season.
Among the many fall travel destinations in the USA, this one stands out for its mix of hiking, waterfalls, and ease of access, all without needing to head deep into the mountains.
19. Door County, Wisconsin
Door County is one of those places that feels tailor-made for fall! Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, it’s filled with cute waterfront towns, farm stands, and quiet roads lined with colorful trees by mid-October.
Highway 42 is one of the best fall drives in the US, especially the winding section near Northport with its dramatic curves and bright foliage. It’s a great route to take as you make your way north from towns like Egg Harbor and Fish Creek up toward the tip of the peninsula.
Peninsula State Park is another must-visit, with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the Eagle Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the fall colors.
You can also stop at Lautenbach’s Orchard for cider and fresh bakery treats or grab a bite in Fish Creek before continuing your drive.
This is one of the best fall getaways in the USA if you want something peaceful, scenic, and full of small-town charm.
20. Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of the most underrated places to see fall colors in the US. The season usually peaks around the first two weeks of October, and the landscapes are incredibly varied. You’ll find forests, waterfalls, rocky coastlines, and inland lakes all lighting up with color.
Some of the best spots to check out include Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, where you can hike to Lake of the Clouds, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for colorful cliffs and shoreline views.
Bond Falls and Tahquamenon Falls are also worth the drive if you’re into waterfalls, especially when the leaves are changing.
This part of Michigan is ideal for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and doesn’t mind covering a bit of ground between stops.
If you’re planning a few fall trips in the US and want one that feels a little more remote, the Upper Peninsula is a great pick.
