Fall Foliage Calendar 2020 Travel Guide
Top Attractions
When it comes to fall foliage, some of the top attractions in the US include the Adirondack Mountains in New York, the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire. These destinations offer breathtaking views of the changing leaves, with hiking trails and scenic drives to enjoy the scenery.
Hidden Gems
Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
This hidden gem offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the fall foliage. Visitors can take a guided hike to see the colors up close, or enjoy the scenery from the park’s elevator, which takes you to the top of the rock formation.
Aspen, Colorado
While most people associate Aspen with skiing, the town also offers stunning views of the fall foliage. Take a scenic drive up Independence Pass, or hike to the Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in North America.
Food Scene
Fall is a great time for foodies, with pumpkin spice everything and hearty comfort food on the menu. Some top destinations for fall cuisine include the Vermont Cheese Trail, where you can sample artisanal cheeses, and the Maine Lobster Trail, where you can feast on fresh lobster.
Budget-Friendly Tips
One of the best ways to save money on a fall foliage trip is to plan ahead and book early. Many hotels and restaurants offer discounts for booking in advance, and you can also save money by shopping for deals on travel websites.
Outdoor Adventures
Fall is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Some top destinations for outdoor adventures include Acadia National Park in Maine, the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, and the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas.
Historical Landmarks
Many historic landmarks are even more beautiful in the fall, with the changing leaves adding to the scenery. Some top destinations for history buffs include Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia, the Freedom Trail in Boston, and the Gettysburg Battlefield in Pennsylvania.
Family-Friendly Activities
Fall is a great time for family fun, with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple picking on the agenda. Some top destinations for family-friendly activities include the Great Pumpkin Farm in New York, the Corn Maze at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Pennsylvania, and the Apple Hill Farm in North Carolina.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, try one of these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- The Haunted Trail at Wagon Wheel Ranch in Texas
- The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Rhode Island
- The Lumberjack Feud in Tennessee
Natural Wonders
Fall foliage is just one of the natural wonders to enjoy in the autumn. Some other top destinations for natural beauty include Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
While fall may not be the busiest season for nightlife, there are still plenty of destinations where you can enjoy a night out. Some top destinations for vibrant nightlife include Nashville, New Orleans, and Las Vegas.
Local Markets
Fall is a great time to explore local markets, with many offering seasonal produce and artisanal crafts. Some top destinations for local markets include the Union Square Greenmarket in New York City, the Pike Place Market in Seattle, and the Eastern Market in Washington, D.C.
Beaches and Mountains
Why choose between the mountains and the beach when you can have both? Some top destinations for beach and mountain fun include the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Lake Tahoe in California, and the Gulf Coast in Alabama.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the local culture and traditions of your destination with these top cultural immersion experiences:
- The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico
- The Hildene Lincoln Family Home in Vermont
- The Oktoberfest celebrations in Munich, Germany
Art and Music Scene
Fall is a great time for art and music festivals, with many cities hosting events to celebrate the season. Some top destinations for art and music include the Austin City Limits Music Festival in Texas, the ArtPrize festival in Michigan, and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot, with walking tours offering a unique perspective on the local history and culture. Some top destinations for walking tours include the Freedom Trail in Boston, the Savannah Historic District in Georgia, and the French Quarter in New Orleans.
Architectural Marvels
Fall foliage can add an extra layer of beauty to some of the world’s most stunning architectural marvels. Some top destinations for architecture buffs include the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, the Hearst Castle in California, and the Fallingwater house in Pennsylvania.
Historical Sites
Learn about the history of your destination with a visit to one of these top historical sites:
- The Monticello estate of Thomas Jefferson in Virginia
- The Alamo in Texas
- The USS Constitution Museum in Massachusetts
Biking Routes
Fall is a great time for biking, with cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. Some top destinations for biking routes include the Katy Trail in Missouri, the Mount Vernon Trail in Virginia, and the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, try one of these top wellness retreats:
- The Canyon Ranch in Arizona
- The Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Massachusetts
- The Miraval Resort & Spa in California
With so many options to choose from, there’s no shortage of fall foliage fun to be had. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, there’s a destination out there that’s perfect for you.