Where to Travel This Fall: Iconic and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for 2024
There's something truly magical about fall—it’s that sweet spot of the year where the air turns crisp, leaves burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, and the world just seems to slow down a bit. Personally, it's my favorite season. I love wrapping up in a cozy sweater, sipping on something warm, and watching as the landscape transforms.
Fall is also a fantastic time to travel, with destinations offering unique seasonal experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're leaf-peeping in the U.S. or enjoying a harvest festival abroad, fall travel has a special charm that’s hard to resist.
This year, why not take the opportunity to explore some incredible places that truly shine in the autumn months? From vibrant foliage to cultural events, these destinations offer a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, making them ideal for your next fall getaway.
New England
New England is practically the poster child for fall foliage, making it a dream destination for leaf peepers. Picture this: vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves transforming the landscape, charming small towns, and crisp, cool air that just begs for a cozy sweater.
When it comes to must-visit spots, the Berkshires in Massachusetts should be at the top of your list. The scenic beauty here is unbeatable, especially if you take a drive along the Mohawk Trail or hike up Mount Greylock for those panoramic views. In Vermont, Stowe is another gem. It's famous for its quaint villages and stunning fall colors, and a scenic drive along Route 100 will not disappoint. If you're up for a bit of coastal beauty mixed with your foliage, head to Acadia National Park in Maine. Cadillac Mountain offers incredible sunrise views that you won’t want to miss.
Fall in New England means perfect sweater weather with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. The best time to catch the peak foliage is from late September to mid-October, but keep in mind that the exact timing can vary depending on the location and weather.
While you’re here, make sure to indulge in some quintessential fall activities. Leaf peeping is a must, whether you’re driving along scenic byways, hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail, or exploring state parks. Don’t miss the local harvest festivals, which feature everything from apple picking to pumpkin patches and farmers' markets. For a bit of adventure, the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire offers one of the best foliage drives you can experience.
When it comes to places to stay, you have plenty of charming options. The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, MA, offers cozy rooms and a traditional New England dining experience, making it perfect for soaking in the Berkshires. If you’re heading to Stowe, VT, consider the Topnotch Resort, a luxurious mountain retreat with stunning views and a top-notch spa. And for those venturing to Acadia National Park, the Bar Harbor Inn offers comfortable rooms overlooking Frenchman Bay, with easy access to the park’s natural beauty.
Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are a fantastic fall destination, with their dramatic landscapes and vibrant foliage offering a true feast for the eyes. As the leaves turn shades of red, orange, and gold, the mountains become a picturesque backdrop for your autumn adventures.
Start your journey in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a charming town that serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A drive along the Newfound Gap Road is an absolute must, providing stunning views and easy access to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park. For a more immersive experience, consider hiking the Alum Cave Trail or the Laurel Falls Trail, both offering breathtaking scenery and a good dose of fresh mountain air.
Fall weather in the Smokies is perfect for outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. The peak foliage season typically spans from mid-October to early November, but the exact timing can vary, so it’s wise to check local foliage reports.
The Smokies are rich in activities that celebrate the season. Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove to spot wildlife and enjoy the fall colors. Don’t miss the annual Harvest Festival in Dollywood, featuring live music, crafts, and delicious Southern food. For a unique experience, try the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers scenic train rides with stunning fall views.
When it comes to accommodations, you have plenty of cozy options to choose from. The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge is a charming, festive option that celebrates Christmas year-round. For a luxurious stay, consider the Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN, known for its gourmet dining and beautiful setting. If you prefer something more rustic, the Buckhorn Inn in Gatlinburg offers charming cabins and cottages with beautiful views.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a dreamy fall destination, known for its stunning aspen trees that turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold. This luxurious mountain town is perfect for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and upscale relaxation.
The fall foliage in Aspen is nothing short of spectacular, peaking from mid-September to early October. The Maroon Bells, some of the most photographed mountains in North America, offer breathtaking views and fantastic hiking trails. A morning hike to Maroon Lake provides the perfect vantage point to see the reflection of the golden aspens in the crystal-clear waters. For a less strenuous activity, take a scenic drive along Castle Creek Road or Independence Pass, both offering stunning vistas.
Fall weather in Aspen is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 65°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The town itself is charming, with a range of boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants to explore.
For a bit of adventure, try a mountain biking tour through the colorful forests, or take a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola for panoramic views of the Elk Mountains. If you’re into festivals, don’t miss the Aspen Filmfest, showcasing independent films and attracting cinema enthusiasts from all over.
Aspen’s accommodations are as luxurious as its scenery. The Little Nell, a five-star hotel, offers unparalleled service and stunning views. The Hotel Jerome, a historic landmark, combines old-world charm with modern amenities. For a more intimate stay, the Aspen Meadows Resort provides a serene setting surrounded by nature.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto in the fall is a feast for the senses, as the ancient city transforms into a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. With its historic temples, serene gardens, and cultural events, Kyoto offers an enchanting autumn experience.
Fall foliage in Kyoto typically peaks from mid-November to early December, making it an ideal time to visit. Begin your day at Kiyomizu-dera, where the sight of colorful leaves surrounding the iconic temple is truly breathtaking. Another must-visit is Arashiyama, where you can stroll through the famous bamboo grove and take a boat ride along the Hozu River, all while surrounded by stunning fall colors.
Kyoto's weather in the fall is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F. This makes it perfect for exploring the city's numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the historic Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Autumn in Kyoto is also a time for cultural festivities. The Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) in October is a grand procession showcasing Kyoto’s history, while the Kurama Fire Festival illuminates the night with blazing torches and traditional rituals.
When it comes to accommodation, Kyoto offers a mix of traditional and luxurious options. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto provides a lavish stay with stunning views of the Kamo River. For a more traditional experience, consider staying in a ryokan like Tawaraya, where you can enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality and serene garden views. Another excellent choice is the Hyatt Regency Kyoto, blending modern comfort with classic elegance.
Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria in the fall is an enchanting blend of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cultural events. The region's rolling hills and dense forests come alive with a riot of colors, making it an ideal destination for leaf peeping and autumn adventures.
Begin your Bavarian journey in Munich, the heart of the region. Munich’s Oktoberfest, running from late September to the first weekend in October, is a world-renowned celebration of Bavarian culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and, of course, plenty of beer. After indulging in the festivities, take a scenic drive through the Bavarian Alps, where the fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop to the rugged mountains.
Neuschwanstein Castle, near Füssen, is a must-see. The fairytale-like castle, surrounded by autumnal forests, is even more magical in the fall. Another great spot for leaf peeping is the Englischer Garten in Munich, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a beer in a traditional beer garden, or simply relax by the lakeside.
Fall weather in Bavaria is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The Bavarian Forest National Park offers extensive trails where you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
For a touch of luxury, stay at the Schloss Elmau, a five-star retreat nestled in the Bavarian Alps. The hotel combines stunning natural surroundings with world-class amenities, including a spa and gourmet dining. Another excellent choice is the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, offering elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. For a more intimate experience, consider the Berghotel Rehlegg, a charming hotel with cozy alpine decor and breathtaking mountain views.
The following are my picks for off-the-beaten-path destinations:
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a hidden gem, especially in the fall when the landscape bursts into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Known for its pristine wilderness, stunning waterfalls, and charming small towns, the UP offers a perfect autumn escape.
Start your journey at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where you can hike along dramatic cliffs and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Superior framed by colorful foliage. The trails range from easy strolls to challenging hikes, ensuring something for everyone. Don't miss a visit to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The Upper Falls, surrounded by brilliant fall colors, is a sight to behold.
The small town of Marquette offers a blend of outdoor adventure and local culture. Take a scenic drive along the M-28, one of the best routes for leaf peeping, and explore Presque Isle Park for stunning panoramic views. The park's Black Rocks are a favorite spot for cliff diving, or you can simply enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Fall weather in the UP is cool, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal for cozying up in a cabin or taking long hikes without the summer crowds. Be sure to visit the Keweenaw Peninsula for more secluded beauty, where the Copper Harbor offers some of the most picturesque autumn views.
For accommodations, the Landmark Inn in Marquette combines historic charm with modern comforts, offering cozy rooms and a convenient downtown location. The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Copper Harbor is another great choice, providing rustic cabins and easy access to outdoor activities. For a luxury stay, check out the Historic Webster House in Bay City, a beautifully restored B&B with elegant rooms and gourmet breakfasts.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin National Park is a hidden treasure for fall travelers, offering a unique blend of rugged landscapes, ancient bristlecone pines, and vivid autumn colors. Tucked away in eastern Nevada, this lesser-known destination offers solitude and breathtaking scenery without the crowds.
Fall is an ideal time to visit, with cooler temperatures and a striking contrast between the golden aspens and the park's towering peaks. Wheeler Peak, the second-highest mountain in Nevada, is a must-see. You can hike the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive to enjoy panoramic views and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the first dusting of snow on the summit.
The park is also home to the Lehman Caves, a fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. A guided tour offers insight into the geological wonders hidden beneath the surface. Above ground, the Bristlecone Pine Trail is another highlight, where you can walk among some of the oldest trees on Earth, their twisted trunks stark against the vibrant fall backdrop.
Weather in Great Basin during the fall is generally cool, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. The crisp air and clear skies make for perfect hiking and stargazing conditions—Great Basin is an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing in the country.
For accommodations, the Whispering Elms Motel and RV Park in Baker provides a cozy base with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If you prefer something more rustic, the park offers several campgrounds where you can immerse yourself in nature. For a more luxurious stay, consider the historic Hotel Nevada in nearby Ely, offering comfortable rooms and a rich history dating back to the 1920s.
La Rioja, Spain
Nestled in the heart of Spain’s wine country, La Rioja is an autumn paradise for oenophiles and nature lovers alike. As the grape harvest season hits full swing in September and October, the rolling vineyards transform into a vibrant tapestry of red, gold, and green. This region is famous for its world-class wineries, or bodegas, where you can indulge in tastings of some of the best wines Spain has to offer, including the renowned Rioja reds.
A visit to Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja, is a must. Here, you can explore historic wineries like Bodegas Muga and Bodegas López de Heredia, which offer guided tours and tastings. For a deeper dive into the region’s wine culture, the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture in Briones provides fascinating insights into the history and art of winemaking.
The fall season in La Rioja is also perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking through the scenic landscapes. The Camino de Santiago passes through this region, offering pilgrims and hikers stunning views of the vineyards and medieval villages. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for exploring.
For accommodations, Hotel Viura in Villabuena de Álava combines modern design with traditional charm, offering luxury stays amidst the vineyards. Another great option is Marqués de Riscal, a Frank Gehry-designed hotel that’s part of a bodega, providing a unique blend of luxury and winemaking tradition.
Transylvania, Romania
Autumn is an enchanting time to visit Transylvania, where the Carpathian Mountains and medieval towns create a captivating backdrop for fall foliage. The region is steeped in legend, with misty forests and Gothic castles that evoke the haunting tales of Dracula. Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula myth, is a must-visit, especially as it looms dramatically against the changing leaves. Nearby, Brașov offers a charming medieval atmosphere with cobblestone streets and colorful houses, perfect for exploring on crisp fall days.
The Carpathians are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails that wind through dense forests and reveal panoramic views of the vibrant autumn landscape. Piatra Craiului National Park is a top spot for hikers looking to experience the stunning fall colors and rugged beauty of Transylvania. The weather in fall is cool, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit.
For a unique lodging experience, consider staying at Viscri 125, a boutique guesthouse in the UNESCO-listed village of Viscri, where traditional Saxon architecture meets modern comforts. Another option is Hotel Transylvania in the heart of Brașov, offering cozy accommodations with easy access to the region’s attractions.
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