As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, fall is the perfect time to explore some of the most stunning destinations across the country. From vibrant forests bursting with color to charming retreats that offer cozy getaways, there are plenty of places to soak in the beauty of the season. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, these fall travel spots are sure to impress. Pack your bags, grab a warm drink, and get ready to experience nature at its finest. Here are 19 of the best destinations for enjoying breathtaking foliage and relaxing retreats this fall.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is a quintessential fall destination, known for its breathtaking foliage and charming New England vibe. The vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves blanket the landscape, making it ideal for leaf-peeping enthusiasts. You can enjoy cozy inns and charming bed-and-breakfasts, with prices averaging around $200 per night. Stowe is perfect for both solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape and group trips, as there’s plenty to explore, from scenic hikes to quaint shops. The town offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it a must-visit in the fall.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cozy retreats. The fall foliage here is spectacular, with the mountains turning into a sea of color. A stay in one of the area’s charming cabins or boutique hotels averages around $150 per night. Asheville is great for solo travelers who love nature or group trips for those interested in art, food, and craft breweries. The vibrant city and surrounding countryside make it a fall favorite.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a peaceful coastal town where the foliage contrasts beautifully with the rocky shoreline. Acadia National Park is right next door, offering incredible hiking trails and scenic drives. Lodging in the area averages about $175 per night, depending on your preference for cozy inns or waterfront resorts. It’s an ideal spot for solo travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature, but it’s equally enjoyable for group trips filled with outdoor adventures. The crisp fall air and scenic views make Bar Harbor a fall gem.
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County offers a charming Midwest fall experience, with small towns surrounded by vibrant forests. The peninsula is perfect for scenic drives, apple picking, and cozy weekends by the lake. Prices for accommodations like quaint inns or cabins average around $160 per night. It’s a fantastic destination for both solo travelers and groups, offering plenty of outdoor activities and spots to unwind. The peaceful ambiance and stunning landscapes make it a fall favorite.
Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is a picture-perfect New England town with covered bridges, historic inns, and stunning fall foliage. The town’s charm is only enhanced by the colors of autumn, making it ideal for leisurely strolls or scenic drives. Accommodations in this quaint town average around $220 per night, offering a variety of cozy options. Woodstock is perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to enjoy the serenity of the season, but groups will also find plenty of activities. The town’s timeless charm makes it a must-see in the fall.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is known for its stunning mountain views, which only get better in the fall when the leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold. It’s a great spot for those looking to combine foliage with outdoor adventures like hiking or wildlife viewing. The average price for a cabin or lodge stay is around $250 per night. It’s ideal for group trips or solo travelers seeking both beauty and adventure in one destination. The crisp air and stunning views make Jackson Hole unforgettable in the fall.
Catskills, New York
The Catskills offer a peaceful retreat just a few hours from New York City, with rolling hills and vibrant fall colors. The region is dotted with small towns, hiking trails, and cozy inns, averaging around $150 per night. The Catskills are great for solo travelers seeking tranquility or for groups looking for a laid-back getaway with plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re leaf-peeping, hiking, or relaxing, this region offers the perfect fall escape. The natural beauty and slower pace make it a favorite.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is one of the East Coast’s best spots for fall foliage, with the Blue Ridge Mountains offering a sea of color. Scenic drives along Skyline Drive are a must, with plenty of hiking opportunities along the way. Lodging options outside the park average about $130 per night, with campgrounds available for more adventurous travelers. Shenandoah is perfect for solo explorers and groups who love the outdoors. The panoramic views and vibrant colors make it a fall haven.
Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains are a classic fall destination, known for their rich biodiversity and stunning foliage. You can take in the beauty with scenic drives, hikes, or even cozy up in a mountain cabin, which averages around $180 per night. The area is fantastic for group trips, with plenty of outdoor activities and cozy retreats. Solo travelers will also love the peaceful surroundings and abundance of trails. The mix of vibrant leaves and mountain mist creates a magical fall atmosphere.
Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires offer a blend of culture and nature, with stunning foliage and quaint towns. Fall festivals, hiking, and art museums make this a well-rounded fall destination. Accommodations in charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts average around $200 per night. The Berkshires are great for group trips or solo travelers looking for both relaxation and a bit of adventure. The combination of vibrant scenery and cultural experiences makes it perfect for fall.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a small Bavarian-style village in the Cascades that comes alive with vibrant fall colors. The town’s unique charm, combined with nearby hiking trails, makes it a great spot for a fall escape. Cozy cabins or hotels in the area average around $170 per night. It’s ideal for solo travelers who want to unwind in a scenic setting or groups looking for a unique, festive experience. The picturesque town and surrounding mountains offer the perfect backdrop for fall adventures.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride’s stunning mountain views become even more magical in the fall, when the aspen trees turn golden. Known for its outdoor activities, Telluride is great for hiking, biking, and enjoying the crisp fall air. Lodging averages around $250 per night, with options ranging from rustic cabins to luxury resorts. This destination is perfect for groups looking for adventure or solo travelers wanting to soak in the beauty of nature. The golden hues and mountain peaks make Telluride unforgettable in the fall.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley may be famous for its wine, but it’s also a fantastic fall destination when the vineyards turn vibrant shades of orange and red. You can enjoy vineyard tours, wine tastings, and cozy retreats, with accommodation prices averaging around $300 per night. Napa Valley is perfect for couples or small groups looking for a relaxing getaway. Solo travelers will also appreciate the serene beauty and wine-tasting experiences. The mix of fall colors and vineyard views creates a magical autumn setting.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, but fall offers a quieter, more serene experience with beautiful foliage and crisp mountain air. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the lake, with lodging options averaging around $220 per night. Lake Tahoe is great for both solo travelers and groups, offering a mix of outdoor activities and cozy accommodations. The vibrant fall colors combined with the clear blue lake make it an idyllic autumn escape. You’ll find plenty to do, from nature walks to enjoying local restaurants.
Bend, Oregon
Bend is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest, offering stunning fall foliage along with outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The Deschutes River and nearby forests provide a breathtaking backdrop for any fall trip. Accommodations in Bend average around $180 per night, with options ranging from rustic cabins to cozy lodges. It’s an excellent destination for both solo adventurers and groups looking for a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. The vibrant colors and crisp air make Bend a perfect fall getaway.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is world-famous for its stunning display of fall foliage, particularly the golden aspen trees that blanket the mountains. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, biking, or just relaxing in the mountain air. Lodging in Aspen averages around $350 per night, with a range of luxury hotels and cozy cabins. While Aspen is great for group trips, solo travelers will also enjoy the peaceful beauty of the area. The contrast of golden leaves against the rugged mountain landscape is truly breathtaking.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains offer some of the best fall foliage in New England, with scenic drives and hiking trails that showcase the vibrant colors of the season. Cozy inns and mountain lodges in the area average around $180 per night, making it an affordable fall retreat. This destination is ideal for solo travelers and groups who love the outdoors. Whether you’re hiking through the forests or taking in the views from the famous Kancamagus Highway, the White Mountains are a fall lover’s paradise. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it a must-visit.
Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos are a classic fall destination with plenty of outdoor activities and cozy retreats. The area is known for its lakes, forests, and vibrant fall colors, making it perfect for hiking, boating, or simply relaxing. Accommodations range from charming cabins to upscale resorts, with an average price of $200 per night. The Poconos are ideal for group trips but also offer plenty of quiet spots for solo travelers to unwind. The mix of outdoor adventure and cozy comforts makes it a perfect fall escape.
Green Mountains, Vermont
Vermont’s Green Mountains are a top destination for fall foliage, offering stunning views and charming small towns. You can enjoy scenic drives, hikes, and cozy inns, with accommodations averaging around $180 per night. The Green Mountains are great for both solo travelers and groups looking for a peaceful, scenic escape. The vibrant fall colors and crisp air make it one of the most beautiful spots to experience autumn. Whether you’re hiking through the forests or relaxing in a mountain lodge, the Green Mountains offer the perfect fall retreat.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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