Best Places to Visit for Fall Foliage
Searching for the best fall vacation ideas to best admire the seasonal change in the color of the leaves? Well, you are in the right place! I truly believe that fall is one of the most magical times of year to travel, with crisp air, colorful foliage, and plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy.
From romantic getaways to family-friendly trips and cultural escapes, fall is full of opportunities to make lasting memories. Here are the places I recommend from my own travels, and I hope you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Niagara Falls, New York
Chris and I both absolutely love Niagara Falls, and have been many times. This place feels like a dream destination during the fall foliage season! The first time I visited was in the fall over 30 years ago while I went to college nearby, and I still keep coming back because, honestly, few places feel as awe-inspiring in autumn as Niagara Falls, when the roar of the water is framed by blazing reds, golds, and burnt oranges along the gorge.
This time, we arrived just as the leaves were reaching their peak, and the contrast between the misty blue water and the fiery fall foliage was absolutely breathtaking. We checked into 4-star Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites for two days.
Walking through Niagara Falls State Park, we followed paved paths and overlooks where the trees glowed in the afternoon light, stopping often just to take it all in together.
Standing near the American Falls, we felt the cool mist on our faces while leaves drifted down around us—it was one of those rare moments that felt both powerful and peaceful at the same time.
Later, one of my favorite moments was strolling along the Niagara Gorge Trail, where the winding paths offered uninterrupted views of the river below and endless opportunities to pause, talk, and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
We warmed up with hot coffee from a nearby café before heading to an observation deck, where the sweeping view of the falls surrounded by fall color felt almost unreal.
A scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway gave us even more chances to admire the foliage, with quiet pull-offs and river views that made the entire afternoon feel unhurried and intimate.
As the sun began to set, the falls took on a soft glow, and the surrounding trees deepened in color—an unforgettable reminder of how magical this place becomes in autumn.
What I loved best:
Next day after breakfast, the absolute best experience was the Maid of the Mist, an exciting boat ride that takes you right into the heart of the falls. Seeing that up close felt like magic!
2. Marquette, Michigan
This place turned out to be one of the most spectacular fall vacation ideas I’ve ever experienced.
We planned this fall foliage weekend as a cozy getaway to Marquette, Michigan, which sits up in the Upper Peninsula near the shores of Lake Superior, and honestly it felt like a brilliant idea from the start. We stayed at Superior Stay Hotel for relaxing five days.
First thing we did after arriving was drive along the lake, and the vibrant trees mixed with that massive blue water was already one of the best experiences, totally underrated and kind of magic.
After that we headed into downtown Marquette, which felt like a hidden gem, grabbing coffee and walking around while the leaves were popping in every shade, see in my photos how colorful it was.
Later we went to Presque Isle Park, which is one of my favorite spots near town, and the trails felt like an absolute best fall dream with spectacular views and cool breezes.
Next on our list was hiking Sugarloaf Mountain, just outside Marquette, and even though it was a little tiring, the view from the top was amazing and totally worth it.
We could see endless forests, Lake Superior stretching forever, and the most vibrant fall colors, which made the whole experience feel exciting and joyful.
That evening we found an affordable local restaurant, The Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery (a great spot for fried fish!) and talked about how Marquette is such an unusual and unique place, especially for a family or romantic weekend.
The next morning we explored waterfalls nearby, which felt like another hidden gem moment and added to why this area is the best for fall.
What I loved best:
Downtown was a highlight for me, filled with cozy cafés, local breweries, and interesting shops, it had such a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
3. Hackettstown, New Jersey
This NJ town is one of those underrated fall gems that instantly won me over. Nestled in Warren County, right near the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, it offers the absolute best mix of small-town charm, colorful scenery, and cool seasonal activities. I loved how easy it was to get to as a day trip from New York City, making it a brilliant idea for an affordable day out with my husband and son when we lived there.
My favorite fall highlight was visiting Donaldson Farms, a cool family-owned spot that comes alive during harvest season. From pumpkin patches to hayrides, it felt like pure autumn magic. I thought it was one of the coolest family-friendly activities, but honestly, it was just as much fun for adults looking for a nostalgic fall day.
I also loved strolling through Hackettstown’s historic downtown. The brick buildings, unique shops, and cozy cafés created such a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Stopping by a local brewery for a seasonal craft beer made the evening feel even more special. For me, it was the absolute best way to experience the town’s character.
What I loved best:
Another gem nearby was Stephens State Park. Hiking along the Musconetcong River with fiery red and golden leaves overhead felt both romantic and refreshing. It was a spectacular reminder of how beautiful New Jersey’s fall landscapes can be.
4. Everett, Washington
This quickly became one of my favorite underrated places to travel to in the fall. Just about 30 minutes north of Seattle, it made the perfect day trip for me and my family. The city, nicknamed "Milltown", sits right along Puget Sound, framed by the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, so every view in autumn had that spectacular mix of fiery colors and misty water landscapes.
One of the coolest highlights for me was strolling through Jetty Island, a unique two-mile-long man-made island right off the coast. Even in the fall, it had a peaceful, romantic vibe, and the golden light on the water was pure magic.
Everett’s historic downtown also stood out to me with its vibrant art scene, cozy cafés, and local breweries. I thought the coolest part was how it blended small-town charm with creative energy. My favorite stop was a craft brewery where I tried seasonal pumpkin beer—it felt like the absolute best way to celebrate autumn.
I also loved exploring the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens, which looked spectacular in fall colors. The trails were romantic, relaxing, and perfect for a slow afternoon. For families, the nearby Imagine Children’s Museum added an exciting and interactive option that made Everett feel even more welcoming.
What I loved best:
For me, the brilliant idea was taking a short drive into the Cascades for leaf-peeping and hiking. The scenery was unforgettable, and yet I could return to Everett for a cool evening by the water. This city is one of Washington’s most amazing, underrated fall gems.
5. Lake Wales, Florida
Florida might not be the first place that comes to mind for a fall trip, but this was actually one of the coolest and most underrated destinations I’ve discovered in the U.S. Located in central Florida, just east of Tampa and south of Orlando, it’s a hidden gem surrounded by lakes, citrus groves, and rolling hills that feel completely different from the state’s famous beaches. I loved how affordable and peaceful it was, making it the absolute best idea for a relaxed autumn getaway.
My favorite highlight was visiting Bok Tower Gardens, which has to be one of the most spectacular spots in all of Florida. Strolling through the vibrant gardens filled with oaks and camellias while the iconic Singing Tower rose above the landscape felt like pure magic. I thought it was both romantic and family-friendly, and the peaceful atmosphere made it unforgettable.
I also loved exploring Lake Wales’ charming historic downtown. The brick streets, unique shops, and cool murals gave it such a vibrant character. Stopping by a local café for a slice of homemade pie and coffee was one of those simple but joyful travel moments that made the town feel extra special to me.
What I loved best:
Another gem was checking out Spook Hill, a quirky optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. It was one of the coolest, most unusual roadside attractions.
6. Kinston, North Carolina
Located in eastern North Carolina, not far from Greenville, I loved that perfect blend of small-town warmth and big personality here. I loved how affordable and welcoming it was, which made it such a brilliant idea for a weekend escape.
One of my favorite highlights was exploring the Neuse River where the trails along the water were spectacular.
I also loved discovering Kinston’s food scene (of course!) and stopping by Mother Earth Brewing for a seasonal craft beer made the night even more fun.
Downtown Kinston itself was another gem. The murals, boutique shops, and friendly vibe made it easy to spend hours wandering around. I thought it was really cool how art and culture gave the city such an exceptional personality.
What I loved best:
Dinner at King’s Restaurant was my personal highlight - we had great Southern comfort food!
In addition, sitting in Lovick's Cafe just watching the day unfold was fun.
7. Manchester, VT
This place felt like stepping right into a fall postcard, and it instantly became one of my favorite autumn getaways. Tucked into the Green Mountains in southern Vermont, near Stratton and Bromley, this charming town is surrounded by rolling hills, fiery foliage, and crisp mountain air. I loved how peaceful and inviting it was, making it the absolute best place for a joyful weekend escape.
My favorite highlight was exploring Hildene, the historic Lincoln family estate. Walking the trails surrounded by vibrant leaves and gazing at the spectacular mountain views felt like pure magic. The gardens, mansion, and history gave the experience such a unique and memorable touch. For me, it was one of the most exceptional fall moments I’ve had in Vermont.
I also loved wandering around Manchester’s charming downtown. The boutique shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries created such a vibrant atmosphere. Stopping into the famous Northshire Bookstore was a brilliant idea. I could have spent hours browsing and sipping coffee. It felt both romantic and relaxing, the kind of place you just want to linger in.
What I loved best:
Driving through the surrounding mountains. The scenic byways offered unforgettable views of golden and red leaves stretching across the hills. I couldn’t resist pulling over to admire the dreamlike landscapes. It was the absolute best mix of adventure and tranquility.
8. Charlottesville, Virginia
This has always been one of my favorite fall vacation spots because it blends history and nature in such a unique way. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it feels like the perfect hidden gem for an autumn weekend getaway. The colorful leaves and rolling hills create a spectacular backdrop that makes every drive and every walk feel joyful and unforgettable. We stayed at 4-star Kimpton The Forum Hotel for two days.
I loved strolling around the Downtown Mall, which is one of the coolest pedestrian streets I’ve ever visited. The brick-paved stretch is lined with local cafés, boutique shops, and art galleries, giving it a lively yet relaxed vibe.
For me, the absolute best part was finding affordable farm-to-table restaurants tucked into historic buildings—each meal felt like a brilliant idea brought to life.
Of course, no trip to Charlottesville is complete without exploring Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home.
I thought it was amazing to see history come alive in such a vibrant setting, and the grounds were especially beautiful under the golden glow of fall foliage. I also loved touring nearby wineries and cideries, which felt both romantic and family-friendly depending on the mood.
Another cool highlight for me was driving along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, just a short distance away.
What I loved best:
The panoramic views of fiery autumn colors were truly spectacular and made me feel like I was in a dream.
9. Algoma, Wisconsin
This is one of those underrated fall destinations that completely won me over. Nestled right along the western shore of Lake Michigan, near Door County, this small town felt like a hidden gem filled with charm, color, and cool lakeside vibes. I loved how affordable and peaceful it was compared to more tourist-heavy spots—it truly felt like the best place for a relaxing autumn weekend getaway.
My favorite part of Algoma was walking along Crescent Beach Boardwalk. With the crisp fall breeze, the vibrant golden trees, and the sound of waves rolling in, it felt like pure magic. I found it especially cool to snap photos here because the colors of the season blended perfectly with the sparkling lake views. It was simple but spectacular.
What I loved best:
Another exciting discovery was how close the city is to Door County, so we could easily drive up for orchard visits, pumpkin patches, and scenic overlooks. In the fall, it’s not just pretty—it’s an amazing, underrated escape that felt vibrant, unique, and memorable in every way.
10. Trinidad, Colorado
This has to be one of the most underrated fall vacation gems I’ve discovered. Tucked away in southern Colorado near the New Mexico border, this vibrant little town is surrounded by the spectacular Spanish Peaks and the rolling foothills of the Rockies.
What I love about visiting Trinidad, Colorado is that it’s compact, easy to navigate, and packed with character despite its small size. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, explore on foot, and still feel like you’ve seen a lot in a single day. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and starting your day early so you can take full advantage of the town and its surroundings.
Getting to Trinidad is pretty straightforward if you’re road-tripping through southern Colorado or northern New Mexico. It sits right off I-25, about three hours south of Denver and just 15 minutes north of the New Mexico border. Once you’re in town, you won’t need a car much—downtown Trinidad is very walkable, and most attractions are close together. I enjoy walking here because it’s relaxed, scenic, and lets you really notice the historic details.
If you make the trip to Trinidad, I think you should definitely spend time exploring historic downtown and walking along the Purgatoire Riverwalk. Downtown is full of beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, quirky shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. The riverwalk is peaceful and perfect for a casual stroll, especially in the morning or near sunset.
History lovers should check out the A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art and the Trinidad History Museum, both of which give great insight into the area’s Wild West roots, coal mining history, and artistic legacy. If you enjoy the outdoors, Fisher’s Peak State Park is just outside town and offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the plains and mountains.
I also loved driving the Highway of Legends Scenic Byway. This brilliant idea turned into one of the most exciting road trips of my life—the winding route through golden aspens, rugged mountains, and unusual volcanic rock formations was spectacular. Seeing the fall colors pop against those dramatic landscapes felt like pure magic.
What I loved best:
For me, the coolest part was how affordable and relaxed Trinidad felt compared to bigger Colorado destinations.
11. Saginaw, Michigan
This turned out to be one of the most surprising and underrated fall getaways I’ve taken.
We started our fall foliage weekend by driving into Saginaw, Michigan, which is tucked near the Saginaw Bay and not too far from Lake Huron, and right away it felt like a hidden gem and a brilliant idea for an affordable getaway.
First thing we did was walk along the Saginaw River, and honestly the vibrant trees reflecting on the water was pure magic and one of the best experiences we’ve had in Michigan during fall.
After that we headed toward Ojibway Island, which is right downtown, and it quickly became my favorite spot because the colors were absolutely spectacular and kinda underrated compared to other fall destinations.
We spent most of the morning just wandering slowly, and it felt joyful and exciting without being crowded at all.
Next up was a short drive to nearby Imerman Memorial Park, and this place felt like a secret forest gem where the trails were covered in crunchy leaves and everything looked amazing.
By lunchtime we grabbed something local near Old Town Saginaw, which is close to Bay City, and it made the whole trip feel more like a cozy family weekend instead of rushing around.
In the afternoon we explored the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge just outside the city, and wow this was the absolute best surprise with wetlands, birds, and peak fall colors everywhere.
As the sun started to set we drove back toward the riverfront, and the golden light made the trees look unreal and almost dream-like.
We ended the day just relaxing, talking about how Saginaw is such an unusual and cool fall destination that more people should know about.
What I loved best:
For me, Saginaw is one of the best places to visit in the fall because it's scenic and unique!
Exploring downtown was my personal highlight because offered unique arts and dining experiences, from galleries to cozy restaurants.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
