If you’re the kind of person who waits all year to sip on a pumpkin spice latte while wrapped in a chunky sweater and frolic through crunchy leaves—same. Fall in the United States is basically nature showing off, and honestly, we’re not mad about it. From the golden aspens of Colorado to the fiery red maples in New England, the US is packed with jaw-dropping autumn destinations. Whether you’re into cozy cabins, scenic drives, or apple cider everything, this guide to the best places to visit in the fall is your perfect travel inspo.
So grab your flannel, your boots, and your oversized scarf (because aesthetics), and let’s explore the best places to visit in the fall in the US—and maybe plan the coziest trip of your life.
1. Vermont – The Crown Jewel of Fall Foliage
If fall were a fashion show, Vermont would be the supermodel in a crimson coat. This small-but-mighty state is famous for its vibrant foliage, charming small towns, and roadside maple syrup stands that are basically liquid gold.
Best towns to visit:
- Stowe (like a postcard from autumn heaven)
- Woodstock (no, not that Woodstock—but still pretty iconic)
- Manchester (hello, cute antique shops and scenic hikes)
Don’t miss: Driving the Route 100 Scenic Byway for nonstop views that’ll have you pulling over every 10 minutes just to say “wow.”
Related Story: Best Fall Weekend Getaways on the East Coast – Cozy Towns and Leaf-Peeping Spots You’ll Love
2. Taos, New Mexico – Golden Aspens & Southwestern Charm
If you’re craving something a little different this fall—think adobe buildings, art galleries, and mountain air that smells like pine and possibility—Taos is calling your name (probably in a gentle, mystical whisper).
Why it’s a must-visit in fall:
- The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (yes, that’s its real name) loops through stunning fall landscapes, from golden aspens to high desert beauty.
- The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge serves up dramatic views and serious main-character energy.
- Fall is the perfect time for hot air balloon rides, minus the summer heat and crowds.
Bonus perks:
- Fewer tourists = more serenity.
- Local events like Taos Fall Arts Festival blend creativity with crisp mountain air.
- The green chile stew will warm your soul—and your sinuses.
3. New York’s Hudson Valley – Fall’s Instagram Playground
Just a couple hours from NYC, the Hudson Valley feels like stepping into a perfectly curated fall Pinterest board. Wineries, orchards, artsy towns, and views that make you want to write poetry about leaves.
Top towns to explore:
- Beacon (artsy and adorable)
- Hudson (for your chic, small-town fix)
- Sleepy Hollow (yes, it’s real—and yes, it’s spooky)
Fall activities you’ll love:
- Apple and pumpkin picking like a Hallmark movie heroine.
- Exploring harvest festivals and sipping on hot cider donuts (yes, that’s a thing).
4. Leavenworth, Washington – Oktoberfest Meets Autumn Wonderland
This Bavarian-style village in the Cascades turns into a cozy fall dream complete with alpine vibes, mountain air, and festive feels. It’s like Germany, but with more plaid shirts and less jet lag.
Best things to do:
- Attend Leavenworth’s famous Oktoberfest (pretzels + polka = perfection).
- Hike the Icicle Gorge Trail (yes, it’s as magical as it sounds).
- Shop at the local boutiques for quirky fall finds.
Fun fact: Even the Starbucks here looks like a gingerbread house.
5. Colorado – Rocky Mountain Autumn Magic
Colorado in the fall is a love letter written in gold. While New England gets the fiery reds, Colorado serves up aspens that shimmer like sunlight. It’s giving major Sound of Music energy—but make it fall.
Best spots for fall foliage:
- Aspen (name says it all)
- Telluride (postcard views + gondolas)
- Maroon Bells (no filter needed)
Things to do:
- Take a scenic drive along the Million Dollar Highway (scary name, million-dollar views).
- Go leaf-peeping on a hike and pretend you’re in a nature documentary.
6. Door County, Wisconsin – Fall’s Best-Kept Secret
Tucked away on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is basically fall in the Midwest at its finest—less crowded than other spots but just as stunning.
Why it’s awesome:
- Quaint lakeside towns like Fish Creek and Egg Harbor.
- Cider mills, cranberry bogs, and actual cheese curds.
- Gorgeous waterfront foliage and peaceful hikes.
Bonus: Fewer crowds = more room for your fall-themed photo shoots.
7. The Berkshires, Massachusetts – Culture + Crunchy Leaves
The Berkshires bring you the best of both worlds: museum-hopping by day, leaf-crunching walks by dusk. It’s perfect for travelers who want a little culture with their nature.
Must-dos:
- Catch a show at the Barrington Stage Company.
- Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum.
- Go hiking or biking through Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Ideal time to visit: Late September through mid-October for prime foliage and chill sweater weather.
8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Fog, Foliage & Fall Feels
The Smokies have this magical way of layering mist over rainbow-colored hills that makes you want to quote poetry—or at least post about it with a moody caption.
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in the fall:
- The foliage is super diverse thanks to over 100 species of native trees.
- Ideal for cabin getaways, bonfires, and starry nights.
- Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge add a bit of kitschy fun.
Don’t skip: Clingmans Dome for panoramic fall views that look like a Bob Ross painting.
9. Sedona, Arizona – Fall with a Red Rock Twist
Okay, hear me out: Sedona doesn’t do the traditional “orange leaf” fall thing, but what it lacks in foliage, it makes up for in vibes. Crisp air, cooler temps, and red rock views that’ll have you spiritually refreshed.
What makes it unique:
- Hike Cathedral Rock at sunset for glowing golden light.
- Explore energy vortexes and art galleries.
- Enjoy patio dining in cool (finally!) desert air.
Ideal for: Travelers who want fall weather without the leaf-chasing.
10. Bar Harbor, Maine – Lobster + Leaves, Baby
Nothing says “quintessential New England fall” like coastal views, crisp sea air, and a hot bowl of clam chowder. Bar Harbor is charming any time of year, but fall? Fall is when it slays.
Top experiences:
- Explore Acadia National Park’s vibrant forests and sea cliffs.
- Drive the Park Loop Road or hike Cadillac Mountain.
- Eat your weight in lobster rolls because it’s fall and you deserve it.
Final Thoughts: Leaf It All Behind
Whether you’re chasing the brightest foliage, hunting for the coziest town, or just trying to sip cider somewhere cute, these destinations are truly the best places to visit in the fall in the US. Autumn isn’t just a season—it’s a whole aesthetic, and these spots know how to serve it.
So go ahead. Book that trip, pack your flannel, and let your inner fall fanatic live its best life. Because hot take? Summer is overrated, and fall is where the magic really happens.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Save this list, share it with your road trip buddy, and start planning your epic autumn escape. You’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping cider with a view, wrapped in cozy vibes and looking like a walking Anthropologie ad.
Want more seasonal travel ideas? I’ve got you covered. Stick around the blog for more cozy itineraries, hidden gems, and must-visit towns all year long.
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