These 12 Destinations Are Perfect for Your Fall Weekend Getaway

Fall is right around the corner, which means vacation time for many of us. With crunchy leaves, apple picking, and cider donuts to look forward to, who wouldn't be excited? The only thing that makes it even better is the destination. Whether you love all things outdoors, are seeking mountain views, or want a quiet, countryside fall, there's a perfect vacation for everyone.

These weekend getaways deliver fall dopamine on every level. So start packing your bags and deciding on which flannel to bring for that autumn Instagram photo!

Fall Weekend Vacations for Leaf Peepers

Let's face it: Leaf peeping is an essential fall activity. Many travelers plan their entire trips around the timing of the leaves changing. In some states, like Vermont, you can even find leaf peeping tours. The East Coast is full of scenic spots, but these are tried and true for foliage photographers.

Northeast Kingdom, Vermont

Stowe is the most popular town in Vermont during leaf peeping season. However, this can also make for a crowded and sometimes chaotic weekend. The Northeast Kingdom, which includes St. Johnsbury, Lyndon, and Danville, is a great alternative. This is true country life, set against the rural Green Mountains of Vermont.

It's full of windy, fall-colored roads, picturesque mountain views, and plenty of farms and markets to stop at along the way. Danville is also home to the Great Vermont Corn Maze, which is the largest in New England! Note: Avoid trespassing on private property and respect the locals when leaf peeping!

• Peak Foliage: Late September to mid-October

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

Virginia's Shenandoah Valley is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains. This beautiful, sleepy town is transformed in the fall, exploding with autumn color around every corner. Skyline Drive runs through Shenandoah National Park and offers 105 miles of scenic views of the surrounding mountains. There are also 75 overlooks where you can stop and take in the scenery.

You can enter the road from Front Royal, Thornton Gap, Swift Run Gap, or Rockfish Gap. All of these happen to be in equally scenic towns that would also be great for a fall weekend! Be warned, though —Skyline Drive is not for the faint of heart!

• Peak Foliage: The last three weeks of October

Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley is a dream all year-round. However, it's more than just a weekend escape for city dwellers. It's also home to charming small towns such as Rhinebeck, New Paltz, and Tarrytown. If you're feeling historic, Sleepy Hollow is an excellent destination for those looking to find some local history and lore. Whatever you're looking for this fall, New York's Hudson Valley is a one-size-fits-all destination for any weekend trip.

• Peak Foliage: Mid-October

Fall Weekend Trips for Outdoor Enthusiasts

There are many things to love about being outdoors in the fall. The air is cooler, the scenery is stunning, and the weather is temperate. Whether you're hiking or wildlife watching, the magic of autumn makes every outdoor activity feel special. If spending more time in nature than indoors is your perfect weekend, these destinations are for you.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

For avid hikers, Jackson Hole is a bucket-list destination. It offers easy access to Grand Teton National Park, which is stunning all year-round. In the fall, it provides unique opportunities for wildlife watching and migrations, fall foliage, and breathtaking autumn sunsets.

Whether you're taking in the views from the Taggart Lake Loop Trail or enjoying the solace at Teton Valley Resort, it's an idyllic fall destination. Part of what makes it so unique this time of year is its native population of aspen trees. When their leaves change color, they create a sea of golden hues in the valley.

• Peak Foliage: Mid-September

Leavenworth, Washington

The Pacific Northwest deserves some attention in the fall, and Leavenworth is the perfect place to give it. Set against a mountainous backdrop, this German-inspired village is historic and walkable. If the Bavarian-themed architecture doesn't melt your heart, then surely its fall farmer's markets will.

With no shortage of authentic German food, fall festivities (including Oktoberfest!), and plenty of fall foliage, it's easy to spend an entire weekend outdoors.

• Peak Foliage: Late September to early October

Finger Lakes Region

The Finger Lakes are particularly enticing during the fall. As New York's crowning lakeside destination, visitors have their pick of any town bordering one of its 11 lakes. Cayuga and Seneca are arguably the most beautiful of the lakes.

Cayuga Lake is home to Ithaca, one of the most scenic waterside towns. Here, you can find an abundance of scenic hiking trails, gorges, and even waterfalls. Seneca Lake is home to the famed Watkins Glen, known for its waterfall hikes.

• Peak Foliage: Late September through late October

Fall Weekend Vacation Tourist Spot Alternatives

Sometimes, the best vacations are those that offer peace and solitude. Traveling off the beaten path is sometimes the best way to enjoy fall and all that comes with it. Rather than bumping elbows with fellow tourists, consider an equally beautiful but uncrowded weekend destination.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The beach isn't typically a hot spot during fall, and that's precisely why it's the perfect time to visit. Listening to the waves crash on the shore might be just what's needed this season. Cape Cod has the best of both worlds, with just enough foliage for leaf peepers who love the ocean.

Towns like Sandwich, Chatham, and Yarmouth are perfect for seasonal shopping and coastal charm. They're all a short distance from public beaches, and are also gorgeous once the leaves change. Plus, the shoulder season is often the cheapest time to visit!

Peak Foliage: Late October to early November

Ashton, Idaho

If Ashton isn't on your radar, it should be. Its proximity to the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway and the Snake River makes it an idyllic fall destination. Both of these offer stunning views of Idaho's valleys. In the fall, the drive down the Caribou-Targhee National Forest is nothing short of magical.

It's also a quick day trip with only 29 driving miles. For hikers, the trails along the Snake River offer prime foliage and lakeside views. A cabin rental or campsite would make this a top fall destination for outdoor enthusiasts!

Peak Foliage: Mid to late October

Ontonagon, Michigan

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is one of the best destinations for fall foliage in the U.S. Ontonagon offers easy access to the Porcupine Mountains, which are the most scenic during October. With an endless number of hikes and overlooks, there's no beating these mountain views.

The entire region is an outdoor lover's dream, with plenty of camping spots, RV hookups, and cozy cabin rentals. Highways 38 and 64 also offer ethereal autumn views, for those who don't want to spend the entire weekend hoofing it.

Peak Foliage: Late September through mid-October

Fall Weekends for City Lovers

A rural countryside weekend isn't everyone's idea of a perfect vacation. Cities can be just as beautiful and offer a wide range of activities and tours. The hustle and bustle of an urban setting is even more exciting in the fall. With more options for food, coffee stops, parks, and historic (or even spooky!) happenings, any of these cities would be a wonderful getaway.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is at the top of the list when it comes to historic cities. For history buffs, a weekend strolling cobblestone streets is nothing short of a dream. There's a little bit of everything here, including shopping at Quincy Market or exploring one of the seaport's many museums.

In the fall, Boston's parks take on classic fall charm is what makes this city so well-loved. If any city were worthy of a fall weekend, it would be this New England gem.

Peak Foliage: Early to mid-October

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville has been an underrated destination for fall foliage. Set against the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's a city that's fit for exploring. One weekend is plenty to view the foliage from Crabtree Falls or drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Eliada Corn Maze is another fun fall activity for those seeking outdoor fun. If roaming the city streets is your thing, Asheville hosts plenty of fall festivals during September and October.

Peak Foliage: Mid-October to early November

Denver, Colorado

It's a fact that Denver's fall season is longer than most. Multiple climate zones mean visitors have a better chance at seeing its beautiful fall foliage. This is great news for city lovers, and also for anyone who needs flexible travel dates.

With such a long leaf peeping season, you can take in all the sights of the city without worrying that one weekend isn't long enough. Denver is known for practically everything — outdoor activities, breweries, festivals, and shopping. One weekend may not even feel like enough!

Peak Foliage: Mid-September to mid-November

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