20 of the Best Fall Getaways for a Weekend Escape
20 of the Best Fall Getaways for a Weekend Escape
Fall is the ideal season to escape the day-to-day hustle and bustle of everyday life for a fun getaway. In between back-to-school activities, Halloween parties, planning holiday menus, and tailgating and cheering on your favorite team, it's important to take a little "me" time. The weather is perfection—things have finally cooled off but it's not too cold yet—so you actually want to spend time outside again! Make it count with a weekend of exploration. Many of the hottest (in every way!) summer spots are far less crowded this time of year, and sometimes you can get even get special off-season rates. So pack up the kids for a family-friendly trip, or leave them at home and take that special someone on a romantic weekend that will leave you recharged. After all, it doesn't need to be summer to warrant an epic vacation to Niagara Falls or the relaxing fall weekend in scenic Michigan. We've got you covered on all the best fall getaways, whether you're looking for the best fall foliage, a tiny town in your state, the top pumpkin patch picks, or even a scenic train ride. Consider this your fall trip bucket list. All that’s left to do is pack your bags, load up a playlist, and hit the road. You won't regret it.
Niagara Falls
The fall color at Niagara Falls (almost!) rivals the reason you came—those showstopping falls. During autumn at Niagara Falls, you will miss out on the summer crowds and often find lower travel rates than during the peak season of June through August. Keep in mind that the end of October often sees snowfall, and some of the attractions shut down when the temperature drops below freezing.
Plan Your Trip
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Just a three-hour drive from New York City, The Berkshires provides a perfect fall getaway for East Coasters. Exceptional dining, cultural activities, and outdoor recreation abound in this historic mountain area.
Traverse City, Michigan
Michigan hits all of the highlights of fall, and Traverse City will not disappoint with its restaurants, shopping, wineries, and outdoor activities. The nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers hiking, a scenic drive, and miles of the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Destin, Florida
Once school is back in session, Florida's beaches become an oasis for fall travelers. The temperatures drop along with the crowds, making the white-sand beaches especially inviting. This town is known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village, so plan a trip for the anglers in your group.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Fall color abounds in the River City. This family-friendly destination offers a top-notch aquarium and plenty of space to get out and explore. Fall is the best time to stroll along the riverwalk. Don't miss the jaw-dropping views from Rock City, especially when you can take in the fall foliage.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
The outdoor adventurer will love a trip to the Poconos in fall. Fill your days with hiking, hiking, and horseback riding. Take a boat cruise on Lake Wallenpaupack (pictured), or time your visit to coincide with one of the many fall festivals.
Sedona, Arizona
Just two hours from Phoenix, Sedona makes for an ideal weekend getaway. The art galleries and spas of Sedona appeal year-round, but hikers will love taking in the glory of Sedona's red rock formations without the heat of summer.
Leavenworth, Washington
If you need a reason other than the unparalleled fall color to visit Leavenworth, then don't worry. There are plenty. The charming Bavarian-style village, lively Oktoberfest, and breweries and wineries will keep you busy for a long weekend.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor makes for a picturesque New England fall getaway. The crowds drop dramatically in the fall, and the nearby Acadia National Park offers hiking and birdwatching. Don't miss the fresh seafood at one of Bar Harbor's many restaurants.
Asheville, North Carolina
Biltmore, with its sprawling house, gardens, winery, and more, is a must-visit any time of year, but Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains beckon in fall. Scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, delicious dining options, hiking, fishing, shopping, and more will keep everyone in your group entertained.
Washington, D.C.
After the summer rush, tourism drops a bit, making sightseeing at the monuments more pleasant. The National Mall is particularly glorious when surrounded by fall color, and cooler temps mean you won't be sweating it out with the rest of the visitors. If the sports-lovers want to take a break from the museums and history, take in a basketball, hockey, or soccer game.
Brown County, Indiana
For a midwest fall getaway, it's hard to top the charm of Brown County, Indiana. The state park is particularly beautiful in fall, and the Bean Blossom Covered Bridge is worth a visit. Nashville, Indiana, offers a quaint downtown.
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County (known as the left thumb of Wisconsin) is located on a peninsula near Green Bay. Potawatomi State Park (pictured) shows off its stunning fall color. Take a driving tour to see all 11 lighthouses in the county.
Hermann, Missouri
Situated along the Missouri River, Hermann offers plenty of autumn charm. Plan your visit during the jazz and wine festival or Oktoberfest, or take a winery tour for an adults-only vacation.
Round Top, Texas
Antiques lovers will want to visit during the Original Round Top Antiques Fair's fall show (September 30-October 5, 2019). Visit the Junk Gypsies at their shop, or book a night at their Wander Inn. Quilt lovers, make sure to take the short trip to nearby LaGrange to see the Texas Quilt Museum.
Atlanta, Georgia
For a big-city fall getaway, Atlanta has it all. The incredible array of dining, family fun, sporting events, and outdoor activities will be hard to pack into one weekend. Visit October 25-27 and make the short trip to Stone Mountain to shop the Country Living Fair!
Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the country, is a great option for a fall getaway. Outdoor activities, a charming downtown, and (of course) a visit to a maple sugar house will make you eager to plan a return trip.
Calistoga, California
Napa Valley will not disappoint in the fall. Come for the wineries and small-town charm of Calistoga, and stay for the spas and hot springs.
Fairhope, Alabama
Visit this Southern gem during the fall months to escape the heat and humidity of summer. The live oaks, views of Mobile Bay, and charming downtown make for a fantastic fall getaway. Don't miss the newly renovated Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa is a must-stay any time of year.
Head out of town this fall and take a trip to one of these not-so-hot spots.