The greatest Fall destination in each U.S. state
Fall Travel Fun
Each portion of the annual calendar offers up its own unique set of travel opportunities, but no season has quite the allure of autumn. Fall travel is simply magical, offering up a chance to relish the last of the outdoor activity season in much of the country while at the same time fully embracing the cooler weather and the colorful changing of the seasons. Fall travel in the United States is the season for pumpkin-spiced travel delights, from apple-picking and leaf-peeping to tailgating at college football games, haunted houses and harvest festivals. But not all fall travel destinations are created equal, as some American cities and towns just now know to do the season best, and the following list is full of them. Click on the slideshow to see the best autumn travel destinations in the USA.
Alabama: Fort Payne
There’s no question that the beaches on Alabama’s Gulf Coast are terrific all fall long and both Tuscaloosa and Auburn are awesome on gamedays, but the mountains that surround Fort Payne are a dream come true in autumn. Explore town before heading out to DeSoto State Park to hike, snap a few photos of foliage and watch a waterfall.
Alaska: Denali National Park
Alaska’s crown jewel of a national park won’t be confused with New England in the leaf-peeping department any time soon, but gaze out over its rust and burnt orange tundra floor though and you won’t be complaining one bit. In addition to the shades of color on display, autumn is a great time to visit as the crowds have thinned while the wildlife is active, getting ready for the long winter ahead.
Arizona: Phoenix
Once late September arrives in Phoenix, extreme heat is typically a thing of the past, making autumn an ideal time to visit “The Valley”. Take advantage of idyllic temperatures to do some hiking or sunset-watching at Papago Park or just do the rounds of the local patios for some al fresco dining & imbibing. Tempe is a great time when Arizona State plays a home game and the annual Arizona State Fair (September 23 – October 30) will be back this year as will the area’s myriad of Dia de Los Muertos and Halloween celebrations throughout October.
Arkansas: Buffalo National River
In 1972, the Buffalo River became the USA’s first-ever national river and if you spend part of your fall floating down its waters, you’re destined to fall head over heels. The Buffalo meanders through an especially scenic stretch of the Natural State, offering plenty of chances to admire bluffs splashed with autumn color and sunbathe on sandbanks in the crisp seasonal sunshine.
California: Sonoma County
Sonoma County springs to life each autumn as the harvest season turns vineyards and wine cellars all over the bucolic county into a beehive of activity. Multiple harvest festivals take place during this time, with the Sonoma County Harvest Fair always being a solid choice. Tip: visit in the later stages of the season to sip some of this year’s vino while enjoying a little more elbow room.
Colorado: Denver
The state’s biggest city is a great home base in fall, offering a myriad of opportunities to maximize the fun of the season. The Rocky Mountaineer offers a jaw-dropping journey between Denver and Moab, Utah—featuring an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs—and plenty of picturesque autumnal scenes along the way. Within the city limits of the Mile High City, Oktoberfest returns this year (September 16-18 & 23-25), and outside of them, day trips into the Rockies to admire the state’s colorful aspen trees sit atop the to-do list.
Connecticut: Mystic
In addition to the spirit of history that you’re always surrounded by at Mystic Seaport, the site will be filled with the Halloween spirit all season long. Elsewhere, the enticing aroma of autumn will be in the air when beloved cidery B.F. Clydes and their menu of cider and other apple-flavored delicacies return for the season, too.
Delaware: Rehoboth Beach
The sun’s strength may be dwindling by the day, but Rehoboth Beach doesn’t lose a bit of its allure in autumn. This sensational beach town will once again feature pleasant days and awesome events like the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival (October 13-16) and the Sea Witch Festival (October 28-30).
Florida: Orlando
The crowds of summer may have faded away, but the times are still great at Orlando’s fantastic theme parks. Epcot’s beloved International Food and Wine Festival goes strong until November 19 while the Magic Kingdon will paint itself orange during its annual celebration of Halloween. And over at Universal Orlando, they will once again be pulling out all the stops to scare you at Halloween Horror Nights (through October 31), including a creepy collab with one-of-a-kind popstar The Weeknd.
Georgia: Helen
The “Bavaria of the Blue Ridge Mountains” offers a refreshing break from the big city all year round, but it truly shines in fall. While its famous Oktoberfest rightly grabs the headlines (sing & dance and life steins weekends through September 29 and then every day after until October 31), the surrounding hills, waterfalls and wineries are also at their most enticing this time of year, too.
Hawai’i: The Big Island
There’s no bad time to visit these magical islands of course, but since the summer crowds shrink and the weather stays dreamy, fall is truly the epitome of heavenly all over Hawai’i. The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival returns to the Big Island this year (November 4-13) while the isle will also host a two-day appearance by the internationally-acclaimed Hawai’i Food & Wine Festival on October 28-29.
Idaho: Sun Valley
Head to the Sun Valley region in autumn and you’ll instantly understand why the offseason is so beloved by the locals. In addition to experiencing slightly lower prices at the town’s myriad of resorts, the local hiking trails and the nearby Sawtooth Scenic Byway—truly one of America’s most scenic drives—are awash in colorful cottonwoods and aspens this time of year.
Illinois: Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway
A 30-mile stretch of roadway that runs alongside the Mississippi River in southern Illinois, this scenic byway is one of the Midwest’s best autumn road trips. Meeting of the Great Rivers meanders its way along the river past its confluence with the Illinois River, offering sweeping views of bluffs covered with vibrant leaves and connecting small towns like Grafton and Alton—both home to interesting antique shops and beloved watering holes like The Loading Dock and Fast Eddie’s.
Indiana: Parke County
Parke County is the finest place to be in Hoosier State come fall, specifically during their Covered Bridge Festival (October 14-23). Admire the charming spans of the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World” while also getting your fill of delicious local specialties like the ever-popular pumpkin ice cream. The county is also the ideal base for exploring nearby Turkey Run State Park, which turns lovely shades of color this time of year.
Iowa: Iowa City
Iowa City remains an underrated Midwest gem and when the students are back at U of I and the Hawkeyes are playing ball, the town becomes the finest place to spend a fall weekend in the state. While the Hawkeye tailgating is rock solid, many locals and visitors head out to nearby Amana Colonies for excellent autumn experiences too, especially during their annual Oktoberfest (September 30-October 2).
Kansas: Lawrence
Located comfortably in the country’s upper echelon of college towns, Lawrence is at its best in autumn as the kids return to KU, breathing extra life into this independent-minded town. Spend a weekend rooting on the Jayhawks and making your way down Massachusetts Street, shopping at bars & boutiques along the way.
Kentucky: Lexington
Long one of the nation’s under-the-radar cool spots, Lex’ and its surrounding forests put on a pretty fall foliage show while handsome Keeneland Racecourse hosts its Fall Meet October 7-29 (Wednesdays through Saturdays). October also typically sees the return of the Thriller parade—a spooktacular event inspired by the groundbreaking Michael Jackson video of the same name.
Louisiana: Shreveport
Louisiana’s best leaf-peeping lies up north and Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park near Shreveport offers up one of the spots to take in the seasonal splendor. This year will also see the return of the state’s favorite fall event: the Louisiana State Fair (October 27 – November 13). It will be the 116th edition of this fun fair, set to feature carnival rides, rodeo action, street performers and a concert by Uncle Kracker.
Maine: Portland
Should you make time in your fall schedule to take in some of the breathtaking displays of foliage upstate? For sure, but just make sure you make it back to Portland, where the season is always buzzing with happenings. Spend a crisp morning warming up with a coffee at one of the city’s abundant cafes and then enjoy the famous Harvest on the Harbor Festival (October 27-29)—a true celebration of the world-class local food scene.
Maryland: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
The Old Line State’s section of this national historical park is remarkable, offering visitors an unparalleled look back into the country’s past and a pleasant day outdoors. In autumn, the pathways and hiking trails are surrounded by gorgeous color, helping make the park a great place to be all season long.
Massachusetts: The Berkshires
Beantown is definitely great when the colleges are back in session and the Pats, Celtics and Bruins are playing, but The Berkshires edge it out for the Bay State crown. Post up in a four-poster bed at a cute bed & breakfast, spend your days exploring the lovely landscapes and then watch as your thoughts quickly turn towards booking next fall’s return trip.
Michigan: Pictured Rocks National Seashore
This stunning national seashore looks divine under bright summer sunshine, but when the leaves fade to yellow and peach, its beauty reaches another level. Combine a trip to the seashore with a visit to Tahquamenon Falls State Park for the ultimate Michigan autumn highlight tour.
Minnesota: Duluth
The 39th annual Fall Festival (September 24-25) will once again be a can’t-miss event in Duluth, bringing great entertainment, tasty food and a signature parade to the crowds. After you’ve enjoyed the good times in the city, strike out on a road trip along the Lake Superior North Shore, where colorful foliage awaits alongside sights like the dramatic Split Rock Lighthouse.
Mississippi: Natchez
Ride into town on the Natchez Trace Parkway, which shows off some of the Magnolia State’s most magnificent fall colors before settling in at a local bed & breakfast. If you’re lucky (unlucky?) you may even bump into one of the ghosts that are said to go bump in the night in this historic riverside town, a collection of spirits that always garner more attention around Halloween. While there’s nothing guaranteed in the ghost department, you’re certain to have a great time at the Natchez Balloon Festival, which will take place October 14-16 and feature hot air balloon flights, great food and tunes from the likes of the Drive-By Truckers, Chapel Hart and others.
Missouri: Hermann
Located in the heart of the state and right on the banks of the Missouri River, this cute small town offers up a slice of Germany in the center of the Show-Me State all year long. Set upon rolling hills and home to multiple wineries and a characterful downtown, Hermann becomes heaven in autumn and its annual Oktoberfest celebration will once again take place during weekends in October.
Montana: Bozeman
Spend your Friday afternoon hiking trails with the locals, a set of paths that are particularly glorious in autumn. Then, tailgate with the Montana State students and alumni on Saturday or—if the Bobcats are playing a road game—just spend the day shopping and dining. On Sunday, make a loop through Yellowstone National Park, which is located less than two hours away to complete a hat trick of autumn activities you can’t do in any other destination.
Nebraska: Lincoln
As this slideshow has shown, fall and college towns go hand-in-hand and the home of the ‘Huskers is no exception to the rule. In addition to rooting on the home team in the Sea of Red or heading to the Haymarket District for post-game socializing, the town is full of countless cultural gems to explore. If you’re savvy, time your trip to Lincoln with a concert at Pinewood Bowl or a day out at the nearby pumpkin patch at Roca Berry Farm.
Nevada: Great Basin National Park
This criminally-underrated yet breathtaking national park in eastern Nevada is devoid of overbearing crowds during the busiest of times, so in autumn you might just have multiple square miles of it all to yourself. Admire the hues of the foliage from the hiking trails before settling in to admire the stars above as Great Basin is one of the best stargazing spots in the West.
New Hampshire: Portsmouth
Home base for some of the best leaf-peeping experiences in the nation, the interior of New Hampshire is an autumn wonderland for sure, but the coast remains a great place to be all fall long. Head to Portsmouth to feel the crisp sea breezes, walk history trails and visit Strawberry Banke Museum, where Historic House season runs through October 31.
New Jersey: Clinton
Arguably the Garden State’s most delightful small towns, Clinton is the perfect spot to escape it all for a few days in the fall. Window shop, walk the local trails, admire art at the Hunterdon Museum or time your visit to coincide with the annual Pumpkinfest celebration on October 21. Be sure to swing by the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on your way there (or on the way home) for some of the best leap-peeping in the region.
New Mexico: Albuquerque
Fall is peak time for balloon festivals around the nation, but Albuquerque’s International Balloon Festival (October 1-9) is the king of them all, and this year it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Balloons will once again soar over ABQ in a wide array of colors and shapes—all guided by some of the world’s finest balloon pilots. Other highlights of autumn in the city include numerous Dia de Los Muertos celebrations and beer festivals.
New York: Letchworth State Park
There’s no doubt that you’ll have a ball in the Big Apple between Labor Day and Thanksgiving, but Upstate is way too lovely this time of year to stay in the city all season long. Head to this remarkable state park to see spectacular foliage and waterfalls come together to take your breath away before heading over to the nearby Finger Lakes to sip some wine and get out on the water one last time for the season.
North Carolina: Asheville
This town’s setting in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it the perfect base for a myriad of outdoor activities that seem to flourish all fall long. Hike to local peaks or waterfalls—activities made all the more alluring by the colorful foliage that surrounds them—or simply stay in the city and enjoy the seasonal fare and autumnal beers on tap at the local eateries & breweries.
North Dakota: Fargo
During autumn, the state’s biggest city is a great base for exploring haunted houses and pumpkin patches or getting your feet messy at local wineries and their “grape stomps”. If that wasn’t enough, the city is also home to the state’s best tailgate: The North Dakota State. Spend a Saturday rooting on the Bison with their faithful fans and you’re sure to fall for Fargo.
Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park
Long beloved by residents of the Buckeye State, Hocking Hills’ stellar reputation is starting to spread far beyond Ohio’s borders. Spend a few days (or an entire week) here this fall exploring the woodlands, chasing waterfalls and getting “cabin cozy” for a trip you won’t soon forget.
Oklahoma: Talimena National Scenic Byway
The old adage says that getting there is 50 percent of the fun, but taking a trip on the Talimena might just serve up all the autumnal thrills you need. Glide over the gentle curves while you enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills and dramatic shades of leaves that all help to make this drive one of the USA’s most scenic road trips.
Oregon: Silver Falls State Park
In a region stacked with superlative landscapes, Silver Falls owns the title of Oregon’s biggest state park and it truly shines when it’s dabbed with autumnal shades. Hike the Trail of Ten Falls—passing past several eye-catching cascades—until you reach South Falls, where you’ll be able to stand behind the curtain of water as it drops, a quintessential park experience.
Pennsylvania: Jim Thorpe
Counted among the USA’s most sensational small towns on a regular basis, Jim Thorpe is the place to go in the Poconos for an enchanting autumn escape. Visit during the Fall Foliage Festival (Saturdays & Sundays October 1-23), where visitors can take scenic train journeys, listen to live music or simply meander the streets doing some shopping while gazing up at hills ablaze with autumn shades.
Rhode Island: Block Island
The moment you arrive on the island via the ferry you’ll notice something different about Block Island in the fall compared to summer: the distinct lack of crowds. Make for Mohegan Bluffs to enjoy the beach while there’s still warmth in the water before exploring the island by bike and pulling up a chair at one of the local waterfront eateries that stay open in the offseason.
South Carolina: Table Rock State Park
The Palmetto State may be more well known for its Lowcountry, but the highlands area of the state is full of pleasant surprises as this state park and its unique rock peak show. Hit the trails for a day or two, where you will be treated to one of the finest foliage shows in the state, then make your way to nearby Clemson to experience a great American college town bliss and—if you’re lucky—watch the Tigers play football.
South Dakota: Rapid City
It may be the second biggest city in the state, but Rapid City is at the pinnacle of the heap when it comes to fall fun. Enjoy crisp and colorful scenic road trips into the Black Hills all season long and special events like the Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival (September 24), where you will be able to witness a host of pre-Halloween fun including the ever-popular Pumpkin Catapult event.
Tennessee: Gatlinburg
A dreamy base for exploring the width and breadth of the Volunteer State’s portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is enveloped by enchanting autumn colors each year. In addition, nearby Dollywood hosts one of the county’s most stellar Halloween celebrations at the Harvest Festival/Great Pumpkin LumiNights event (September 23 – October 29), which will feature the new addition of Hoot Owl Hollow.
Texas: Austin
The “Live Music Capital of the World” will once again live up to its reputation in autumn 2022, with the Austin City Limits Festival being the headline act. Taking over Zilker Park for two weekends (October 7-9 & 14-16) of awesome music and great timed, there will be over 100 performers taking the stage—names like P!nk, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lil Nas X, Kacey Musgraves, Phoenix, Paramore and The Chicks being just the tip of the iceberg—and some of the tastiest food and craft beer in the state. Autumn will also see an Oktoberfest celebration, a festival dedicated to queso dip and the esteemed Austin Film Festival.
Utah: Provo
Provo perks back to life in the autumn when the students return to BYU and football Saturdays once again sit atop the social calendar. Elsewhere, the surrounding area is a dream come true for rafters, fly fishermen and those who adore scenic fall foliage.
Vermont: Stowe
Autumn sees leaf-peepers from around the country—and the world for that matter—arrive in Stowe, and that buzz only adds to the appeal of this town ringed by mountains. After you’ve soaked up the quintessential New England charm in town, make your way to the Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall (yep, the Von Trapps that inspired The Sound of Music) for a European-inspired brew or take in the fun at the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival (October 7-9).
Virginia: Shenandoah National Park
Leaves lashed with vivid streaks of color and an endless list of outdoorsy things to do top the list of why this iconic national park is so special in autumn. For some of the best fall views in all the land, take a spin on Skyline Drive or just park the car and head off into the hills to find a vista to call your own.
Washington: Leavenworth
If there’s one place in Washington that has become synonymous with autumn, it’s lovely Leavenworth. This Bavarian-inspired alpine town will hold a revamped Oktoberfest celebration (September 30-October 1, October 7-8 & 14-15) which will put a slightly new spin on things as it’s being run by new organizers and will focus more on local traders than previous editions. Regardless if you make it for the fest’, the town offers up great outdoor recreation opportunities which will help you fully embrace the season.
West Virginia: Babcock State Park
You haven’t truly admired Glade Creek Grist Mill—one of West Virginia’s most iconic symbols—until you’ve seen it against a backdrop of brilliant shades of soft yellow and burnt orange. The mill is located in the heart of this sprawling state park, which also serves as a wonderful setting for hiking and camping.
Wisconsin: Madison
Madison regularly sits atop the rankings of the nation’s best college towns and you will find a long list of fun things to do when school is back in session and the Badgers take the football field. Tailgate before the game and bounce around to “Jump Around” in the stands with the fans one day and head to local pumpkin & apple picking spots the next.
Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park
During autumn, the stunning landscape of our oldest national park sports striking shades of seasonal color serves to make it look even more remarkable than usual. Fall is also renowned for being the season of thinner crowds and increased opportunity for admiring interesting animal activity, as the park’s residents set about preparing for the long winter ahead.