25 Best Places to Spot Fall Foliage in America
Updated: Dec. 08, 2023
Photogenic doesn't even begin to describe these top fall foliage destinations across the country
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Fall foliage on display
When it comes to fall activities, leaf-peeping ranks No. 1 on the list. From small towns in New England to Yellowstone National Park, the United States brims with picturesque places to soak in the majesty of the fall season. There are weekend getaways in every state and colorful destinations that make great road trip pit stops. Regardless of where you live, it’s a near certainty that exquisite fall foliage exists within driving distance. Seriously, we can all but promise that an amazing leaf-peeping locale is even closer than you realize with these best places to see fall foliage!
How we chose our top 25
Ready to start planning the best road trip to see fall foliage in autumn, a weeklong holiday or even a quick overnight? We combed through countless reviews and hundreds of photographs to put together a cross-section of the best autumnal standouts for solo trips, couples getaways and family vacation destinations. While the top requirement was vibrant fall foliage, we focused on locations that offer plenty to see and do. Whether you choose to stay at a five-star resort, a small-town bed and breakfast or one in a long list of cute cabin rentals, a sublime seasonal escape awaits. But don’t just take our word for it—keep reading to see for yourself.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Best for: Beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts
The Outer Banks region is famed for shipwrecks, wildlife (it’s among the few places where you can still spot wild horses roaming free in North America) and sandy stretches that invite lazy summer days. This picturesque group of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina also makes a fantastic fall getaway, as autumn ushers in a patchwork of colors. Uncrowded beaches and excellent fishing also make the list of off-season selling points of an Outer Banks road trip.
Highlights:
- You can take a horseback riding excursion on Hatteras Beach.
- The trails at Currituck Banks National Estuarine Reserve take visitors into maritime forests and marshy areas.
Niagara Falls, New York
Best for: Families with kids
The city of Niagara Falls is a top-notch spot to witness Mother Nature working her magic, which is why it’s high on our list of the best places to see fall foliage. This family-friendly destination in New York State has flourishing forests, gushing waterfalls and unique vantage points—such as Goat Island, the Niagara Falls tunnel and the Rainbow Bridge—to feast your eyes on fall foliage. Due to the area’s unique microclimate, the leaves change later than in the rest of the region, making mid- to late-October prime time to visit. Keep the kids entertained as you road trip to the falls with these interesting waterfall facts.
Highlights:
- Cave of the Winds, a tour that takes you close to the falls, is the top-ranked attraction for good reason. (Just remember to don a hooded raincoat.)
- Hop aboard the Maid of the Mist for an up-close view of Horseshoe Falls.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Best for: Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts
Yellowstone National Park is marvelous year-round. That said, photographers and nature lovers alike have argued that it’s one of many national parks that look even more striking in the fall. And there’s a plethora of visual evidence to support that claim. When autumn rolls in, the mountains are cloaked in a spectrum of colors, crowds dwindle and wildlife abounds.
Highlights:
- The Grand Prismatic Spring is among the most jaw-dropping sights on the planet.
- With any luck, you might see male elk sparring.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Best for: Families with kids
One of the most iconic and most photographed tourist attractions in the Americas, Grand Canyon National Park is the definition of a bucket-list destination. Activities like a helicopter or train ride show the canyon in all its glory and are fun for the whole family. The best time to go? For our money, it’s got to be fall—specifically late September to early October, when the leaves turn the same color as the layered bands of red rock. Mild temperatures and fewer crowds are an added bonus.
Highlights:
- A helicopter ride provides an unforgettable perspective and really shows off the enormity of the Grand Canyon.
- The Grand Canyon Railway departs the historic train depot in the town of Williams and runs along a scenic track to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon—one of the best train rides in America.
Whitefish, Montana
Best for: Nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts
Big Sky Country is undeniably captivating. And Whitefish—the gateway to Glacier National Park—certainly fits into that category. Now’s the time to take a Montana road trip, as the “secret season” brings clear skies, sunshine and captivating colors. Aspen and tamarack trees turn a golden yellow in early October. Whether you’re keen on hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing or cycling, there’s no shortage of active things to do. Craving some R&R? Book a therapeutic massage or a restorative yoga class.
Highlights:
- Glacier National Park is the ultimate outdoor playground.
- The Whitefish Mountain Resort Bike Park encompasses more than 20 miles of trails.
Lake Placid, New York
Best for: Relaxation seekers and outdoor enthusiasts
Lake Placid ranks among the most idyllic destinations in America. So it should come as no surprise that this upstate retreat holds a top position on our list of the best places to see fall foliage. Lakes, mountains and unspoiled forests contribute to the postcard-worthy panorama, and by mid fall, the deciduous trees shine in all their glory. Drive along the 170-mile Olympic Trail scenic byway in early October to glimpse oaks, sugar maples and birch trees. Love the lake life? Visit the prettiest lakes in every state.
Highlights:
- There’s plenty of hiking, and Adirondack Park outsizes Yellowstone National Park.
- Mirror Lake is an absolutely stunning spot for kayaking, boating, swimming (though it’s a bit chilly in the fall) and waterfront fun.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Best for: Road trippers
Situated on the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg impresses with its high-altitude attractions and awe-inspiring splendor. Mother Nature puts on a sensational show that lasts from early October to mid-November, so you’ll get some stunning fall pictures while you’re there!
Highlights:
- For unsurpassed views, venture to the Space Needle, a 407-foot-tall observation tower.
- A self-guided driving tour of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an unforgettable way to spend a few hours. Plus, it only costs $10.
Stowe, Vermont
Best for: Hikers and history buffs
With its unmistakable mix of fall foliage, history and outdoor activities, Stowe is the epitome of an autumn escape. The best time to see tones of yellow, orange and red? The tail end of September and throughout October. If your trip coincides with Halloween, don’t miss Emily’s Bridge, a historic and, legend has it, haunted covered bridge that makes for a spooky travel destination. After a day of exploration, warm up with a cup of spiced cider before hunkering down at the Brass Lantern Inn.
Highlights:
- Rising 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield is the tallest point in Vermont.
- Walk along a former smuggling route in Smugglers Notch State Park.
Washington, Connecticut
Best for: Romantics, history buffs and relaxation seekers
New England is synonymous with the seasonal shift. The enchanting town of Washington in northwest Connecticut cuts a frame-worthy picture, making it one of the best places to see fall foliage. Go in late September through early October, when the landscape erupts in scarlet, gold and auburn. The small town’s historic and beautiful architecture, pastoral pursuits, delicious local restaurants and romantic Mayflower Inn & Spa add to the appeal.
Highlights:
- The Institute for American Indian Studies has fascinating exhibits, including a replica Algonkian village and a wigwam escape room.
- Steep Rock Preserve is a hidden gem with diverse flora, riverside trails and an old railroad tunnel.
Calistoga, California
Best for: Romantics, oenophiles and spa lovers
This laid-back town in wine country is prized for its hot springs, mud baths and vineyards. So it’s the perfect place to relish vino tastings, relaxing spa rituals and leaf-peeping. Start the day with a trek through the redwoods, maples and black oaks at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. After an afternoon of sipping world-class chardonnay, retreat to the posh comforts of the Solage resort and spa.
Highlights:
- Wine and architecture coalesce at the Tuscan-style Castello di Amorosa winery.
- The Petrified Forest is chock-full of trees that were “turned to stone” by the eruption of Mount Saint Helena.
Bristol, Rhode Island
Best for: Beach lovers and history buffs
Just 35 minutes from Newport, the quaint town of Bristol boasts historic architecture, a relaxed ambiance and seasonal festivals. Foliage chasers will enjoy Colt State Park and the gardens at Blithewold. Take a break from gawking at the gorgeous landscape to meander through the downtown area. Nearby, you’ll find a beach that’s even better in the fall.
Highlights:
- The beauty of Blithewold’s mansion, gardens and arboretum in the fall knows no bounds.
- Hear about the British being intentionally misdirected to the Episcopal Church on a historic walking tour of Hope Street.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Best for: Fans of fresh seafood and the sea
Most people associate Kennebunkport with lobster shacks, ocean vistas and pristine beaches. But summer isn’t the only time to plan a trip. This seaside stunner is also fabulous come fall, when the crimson and gold treetops arrive in mid-October. Temperatures in the 50s only enhance the experience. Come for the panoramic autumn views and stay for the great restaurants, downtown shops and the Seashore Trolley Museum.
Highlights:
- For a mini coastal road trip, follow Ocean Avenue past the multimillion-dollar mansions with impeccable landscaping all the way to Walker’s Point, aka the Bush (yes, that Bush) compound.
- Venture off the beaten path to Saint Anthony’s Monastery, which sits on a 66-acre estate with wooded riverside paths.
Oakland, Maryland
Best for: Families with kids
More than just crab cakes and seafood boils, Maryland overflows with mid-Atlantic charm. And it’s not just the summer season that wows. The town of Oakland delights leafage fans with vibrant shades of copper, vermilion and gold, and you can venture to Swallow Falls State Park for a close-up look at towering ancient hemlocks and pines. And if you love autumn as much as we do, chuckle at these funny fall memes while sipping on your pumpkin spice latte.
Highlights:
- Deep Creek Lake State Park is lovely (and infinitely less crowded) in the fall.
- The Autumn Glory Festival, which includes parades, music and more, kicks off on October 13 and is fun for kids.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Best for: Beer aficionados
Trade snow-covered slopes for kaleidoscopic summits by heading to Breckenridge in the fall. You’ll be rewarded with golden aspens as far as the eye can see. Love a cold brew? Breckenridge hosts one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the region. Youngsters will love the myriad parks and hiking trails.
Highlights:
- There’s an extensive trail network for hiking and cycling.
- The panorama is particularly exceptional from Boreas Pass Road.
Fish Creek, Wisconsin
Best for: Relaxation seekers and history buffs
Need a weekend away to unwind? Fish Creek, one of the best places to see fall foliage, entices travelers with its fiery leaves, farmers markets and autumnal activities. Major draws include Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Alexander Noble House Museum and the tree-lined trails of Peninsula State Park, where you can discover a dazzling array of cedar, white ash and sugar maples. Make it extra special by going apple picking at a local orchard.
Highlights:
- Plan a camping trip to wake up alongside the beautiful leaves. (Be sure to pack layers, as it gets quite cool.)
- Cruise along the leaf-swept Door County Coastal Byway.
Lenox, Massachusetts
Best for: Shoppers, music lovers and hikers
Travelers flock to the Berkshire town of Lenox for its blend of heritage and natural beauty. Starting in late September, the landscape is ablaze with red, yellow and green. Admire the outdoor surroundings at Kennedy Park and Mount Greylock State Reservation. In addition to hiking, biking and kayaking, go gallery hopping, browse antique shops and catch a performance of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. For even more fun, check out the best pumpkin patch to visit.
Highlights:
- Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary covers more than 1,000 acres along the slopes of Lenox Mountain.
- The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, is a must-visit historic country estate and cultural center.
Fayetteville, West Virginia
Best for: Hikers and road trippers
Approximately 78% of West Virginia’s total land is forested. By mid-October, Fayetteville is awash in harvest hues. There are numerous trails, plus a cute shopping district and terrific restaurants. Of course, no fall trip to this gem of a town is complete without a scenic ride over the New River Gorge Bridge.
Highlights:
- Have a picnic lunch in the pretty town park.
- The Historic Fayette Theater hosts live music and community productions.
Clayton, Georgia
Best for: Hikers, foodies and music lovers
Between the kids starting school and getting into the swing of things, many folks find it difficult to get away in September. Not to worry. We’ve got some good news on that front. Clayton is a scenery-packed getaway until late October. Listen to live bluegrass music, chow down on authentic barbecue and visit Barker’s Creek Mill. And, of course, carve out ample time for Chattahoochee National Forest. Don’t forget to read up on what the fall equinox means for your zodiac.
Highlights:
- Hike the beautiful Bartram Trail.
- Treat your taste buds to locally grown farm-to-table fare.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Best for: Foodies, shoppers and history buffs
Brilliant fall tones are pretty much guaranteed in Portsmouth. Beyond that, the pedestrian-friendly downtown is lined with indie boutiques and excellent eateries. Strawbery Banke Museum depicts life as it was centuries ago. Seeking a foliage fix? Set your sights on Prescott Park, where you can grab a grassy knoll and appreciate the splendid surroundings. Talk about a gorgeous New England fall destination!
Highlights:
- Stroll along the picturesque waterfront.
- The USS Albacore, a retired U.S. Navy research submarine, now offers tours and exhibits.
Hood River, Oregon
Best for: Foodies, hikers and fans of water sports
One of the best places to see fall foliage is located an hour east of Portland, at the intersection of the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Range. Hood River has an abundance of farm stands, breweries, wineries and hiking routes. Add to those some quintessentially autumn activities—like apple picking and peeping leaves of the crimson maples that become vivid in mid-October—and it’s clear why folks flock here in the fall. Before you depart, read this guide to the perfect Oregon Trail road trip.
Highlights:
- Hood River is known for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
- Pull off the Historic Columbia River Highway and stretch your legs with a short, sweet and stunning hike to Horsetail Falls.
Park City, Utah
Best for: Hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts
Known as one of the best places to ski in the United States, Park City also has a lot to offer before the first snowfall. Travelers can marvel at the native trees—canyon maples, quaking aspen, scrub oak and black hawthorn—whether by foot, bike or car. Fly fishing, kayaking and rafting are also popular fall pastimes. Another reason to plan your trip during the off-season? Reasonable rates at luxe lodgings such as Montage Deer Valley.
Highlights:
- Hot-air balloon rides depart daily at sunrise.
- Early morning drives along Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway are breathtaking.
Galena, Illinois
Best for: Adrenaline junkies
Before the bitterness of winter sets in, Galena delivers crisp temps and some of the finest foliage in the Midwest. Quintessential autumnal activities run the gamut from leaf-peeping to pumpkin and apple picking. For a totally unique perspective, board the ski lift to the summit of Chestnut Mountain Resort or opt for a zip-lining excursion at one of the best places to see fall foliage.
Highlights:
- Sample handcrafted spirits—including bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka and gin—at the family-operated Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.
- The former home of Ulysses S. Grant showcases original furniture and other interesting artifacts.
Cherokee, North Carolina
Best for: Bird watchers, campers and nature lovers
The promise of lush landscapes, outdoorsy action and Native American culture lures travelers to Cherokee. On the itinerary? Take your pick of fly fishing, tubing, bird watching or kayaking. Learn about the deep roots of the Cherokee people at Oconaluftee Indian Village, and for optimal vegetation viewing, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Don’t miss more spectacular national parks photos that will leave you awestruck.
Highlights:
- Spend a few days backcountry camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- A walkway of earth, roots and rocks leads to Mingo Falls.
Jasper, Arkansas
Best for: Hikers and road trippers
With the backdrop of the Ozark Mountains, this tiny town is big on scenic beauty, making it one of the best places to see fall foliage. Between mid-October and early November, Jasper beckons travelers with its intense shades of jade, burnt orange and carnelian. Make a point to drive through the Arkansas Grand Canyon, where flaming hues are on full display.
Highlights:
- Triple Falls definitely warrants a stop.
- Emma’s Museum of Junk is a quirky, only-in-Jasper attraction.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Best for: Bird watchers, road trippers and campers
It’s hard to wrap our heads around the fact that just 75 miles outside of Washington, D.C., sits a place as serene and stunningly beautiful as Shenandoah National Park. Steal away for a fall weekend to explore 200,000 acres of cascades, wetlands, commanding peaks and leafy forests tinged with a fiery brilliance. Navigate the vast network of trails, and keep an eye out for birds, deer and black bears.
Highlights:
- Sleep under the stars at one of the five campgrounds.
- The beauty of the 105-mile Skyline Drive begs motorists to go slow and stop often.
Originally Published: September 03, 2021
