Planning a weekend escape around scenic drives cascaded by trees changing colors has basically become the quintessential way to welcome fall. And the foliage fun doesn’t stop there. Quaint inns, orchards and nature preserves are doing everything they can to lure socially distant travelers to their destinations ablaze in burning shades of yellow, orange and red. Think: hotel packages tailored to peepers with handy maps, corner rooms with sweeping views, spiked cider happy hours and more.
Where to Travel for Fall Colors
New England is notorious for boasting some of the top leaf-peeping spots in the country (we see you Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut), along with other foliage all-stars like upstate New York, North Carolina in the South and Oregon on the West Coast. The key to planning your trip is knowing when to visit though, so you reach each spot when the fall colors are at their best. If you peep too soon you could be faced with a field of basic greenery. On the opposite end of the spectrum, waiting too long to forest bathe could present near-naked maples, oaks and dogwoods, post-shedding. The beginning-to-middle of October tends to be a sweet spot for the most vibrant landscapes, however, which is why we’ve outlined a few of our favorite destinations for fall colors below, with where to stay and what to do in each area. Behold the best fall foliage trips to plan (and take) right now.
Best Fall Foliage Spots
Fall Colors in Litchfield, Connecticut
Route 7 is one of the most striking stretches in Connecticut, that winds through must-visit towns in the rolling Litchfield Hills such as Woodbury, Kent, Morris and Washington, exposing a canvas of orange-red tones from late September to Late October. Woodbury is known as the “antiques capital of Connecticut,” so there’s plenty to see and do there, while Morris and Washington are home to some of CT’s most awarded accommodations (ahem, the Mayflower Inn and Winvian Farm). Bird-watching enthusiasts can pass the time at the largest wildlife refuge in the state, White Memorial Conservation Center, while those in search of other outdoor activities will be drawn to Litchfield’s horseback riding stables, pumpkin patches and picnic-worthy locales set under the leaves. Where to Stay: Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection. Nestled in Washington, CT, this idyllic estate (that’s over 100 years old) is dreamy, to say the least, and they’ve just unveiled a property-wide refresh by New York-based designer Celerie Kemble. With floral pops of color at every turn and Mayflower’s own unique art and antique mix, you could easily spend your days just roaming the halls just looking at everything. But then there’s the spa to get to. Their one-of-a-kind holistic program in partnership with THE WELL is unlike any other in the state. The 20,000 sq foot spa features state-of-the-art amenities, as well as a suite of medical and health coaching services, custom spa treatments (Forest Craniosacral anyone?) and curated daily movement and fitness classes. Rotating “Visiting Masters” will also be bringing their various healing practices to Litchfield County this fall. Where to Eat: The Garden Room at the Mayflower, Arethusa al Tavolo in Bantam, Swyft for devouring every last slice of wood-fired pizzas and craft beers in Kent, Winvian Farm for a stunning Relais & Chateaux culinary journey in Morris, Community Table in New Preston and Market Place Tavern at The Old Litchfield Jail.
Fall Foliage in Meadows of Dan, Virginia
You’ll think you’ve been transported to the Scottish countryside upon approaching Meadows of Dan, which is set amidst Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, a segment of the Appalachian Mountains often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive.” Marvel at panoramic views of the unspoiled forests and towering golden trees while driving along the winding Blue Ridge Parkway this fall, where you can take in the colorful scenery for as far as the eye can see. You can also stop for hikes along the way, take part in a European-style pheasant shoots or embark on a mounted horseback riding adventure. Where to Stay: Located on 12,000 acres in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a majestic year-round mountainside retreat and a truly one-of-a-kind destination. One of the best times of the year to experience the resort is in the fall, when the air is crisp and the bucolic Blue Ridge Mountains morph into a sea of autumnal shades of orange, red and yellow. Enjoy cozy quarters in a standalone cottage or book the Suite Escape package, which includes signature suite accommodations and a $500 resort credit to be used for outdoor activities or spa treatments. Open through November, you can also tee off at Primland’s championship Highland Golf Course—18 holes framed by colorful fall foliage weaving throughout the peaks and valleys. After an adventure-packed day, take a dip in the indoor pool or soak in the jacuzzi before sampling locally-sourced cuisine at Elements. Where to Eat: 19th Pub at Primland, Woodberry Inn, Mabry Mill Restaurant & Gift Shop, Jane’s Country Cafe, Chateau Morrisette, Maples Restaurant at Olde Mill, Poor Farmer’s Market, Tuggles Gap Restaurant, Odd Fella’s Cantina and Tapas Bar and Pine Tavern.
Fall Colors in Hudson Valley, New York
Hudson Valley is glorious in all of its multi-hued pride right now—at prime peak! Arrive by the scenic drive over the Rip Van Winkle Bridge into Hudson proper, or traverse the Hudson River Skywalk, a new walkway that connects the homes and studios of the major Hudson River School artists, Thomas Cole and Frederic Church. Combine the unreal scenery and eccentric Warren Street, dotted with 19th-century row houses, shops, restaurants and galleries, and you’re apt to never leave. Plan your day around antiquing and bopping from one curiosity-filled shop to the next, or venture off on one of the several trails, hikes and nature paths that are abundant here. Pro tip: On your way into Hudson, be sure to stop at Twin Star Orchards in New Paltz. There’s apple picking, live music on the weekends and seven varieties of the best hard cider we’ve ever had, to wash down crave-worthy wood-fired pizza and burgers. Opt for the Dragon’s Breath made with fresh mozzarella, chorizo, jalapeños and Mike’s Hot Honey, or the 3-Shroom White Pizza banger. Where to Stay: In historic Hudson, The Maker Hotel is one of the best hotels for fall-worthy ambiance, 11 dramatic rooms with whimsical flourishes and one-of-a-kind onsite activities, like tarot readings with their resident Maker in The Lounge. Should you happen to be visiting on Halloween, they are hosting a spooky szn event with plenty of theatrics, cocktails, costumes and conjurings. Down the street, there’s also pet-friendly The Wick—a more affordable, yet still solid option—and a bit easier to book last minute if you decide to get away on a whim. Plus, you can’t beat their free WiFi and complimentary breakfast sacks to-go. Where to Eat: Visit The Restaurant and Cafe at The Maker for its glass conservatory dining room, exceptional service and signature dishes, such as chicken Milanese with mustard greens, house-made pork and herb sausages with butter beans. We also like the former movie theater turned restaurant and hotel Rivertown Lodge for brunch, along with Wm. Farmer and Sons, The Cascades, Swoon Kitchenbar, Hudson Food Studio, and Spotty Dog Books & Ale.
Fall Foliage in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
The annual red, orange and gold show in Winston-Salem starts in higher elevations like Mount Mitchell and Grandfather Mountain and works its way down to the foothills and the Piedmont. Be immersed in the city’s vibrant arts and cultural experiences with stops at the historic Old Salem, Reynolda Village and Arts District. Check out local eats, breweries and live music in the redeveloped neighborhood Industry Hill, or hop over to the new Innovation Quarter to participate in their outdoor wellness series. Winston Salem also serves as the gateway to the Yadkin Valley Wine Country region, should you want to try the local vino, in between foliage scouting. To time your leaf peeping right, plan on visiting the area in early October—until the end of the month. Where to Stay: The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel is a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and elevated design elements, just steps away from fine art, craft beer, soul food and of course, fall colors right outside the front door. Where to Eat: Mozelle’s for Chef Jay Pierce’s inventive takes on Southern classics (lunch and dinner), Sweet Potatoes for fried chicken and soul food staples, Cugino Forno Pizzeria for authentic Italian piazza and gelato, Springhouse Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar for seasonally-inspired fare and Young Cardinal Cafe and Co. for the best brunch in town, complete with build-your-own omelettes, five types of eggs Benedict and biscuits loaded with all the fixings. Thirsty yet? Take advantage of WS’s plethora of breweries that are within walking distance of The Cardinal, like: Foothills Brewery, Small Batch Brewery, Fiddlin’ Fish Brewery and Incendiary Brewing Company.
Fall Colors in Newport, Rhode Island
No excursion to Newport is complete without a stroll around the Cliff Walk, or a peaceful car ride down the winding Ocean Drive, which offers fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Fort Adams State Park with lots of places to stop and admire the fall colors. 14 miles of waterfront real estate—that used to be the playground for the rich and famous in the roaring twenties—is alive and well, plus bursting with color. Take a mansion tour at The Elms or The Breakers to marvel at how the other half lived, then set sail on The Madeleine or Rum Runner II for a history lesson with a side of salt-tinged wind in your hair. You can also climb aboard the Coastal Queen for a Fall Lighthouse Cruise through the harbor to admire an unobstructed view of the coast’s fall foliage while sipping apple cider. We also love the curated experience Stoneacre Picnics provides on the lawn of Fort Adams or another mansion spot of your choosing for sunset sips and bites. Where to Stay: One of Newport’s most prized properties (where you can actually spend the night) is The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection. The former home of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt has it all: history, charm, luxury and an exhaustive menu of #SoNewport experiences their concierge will tailor to your stay. Try your hand at the art of Scrimshaw, unwind with a pampering massage in their spa, cruise the town in a classic car, go for a swim in one of two picturesque pools, have your cards read by their Mansion Tarot Reader and when you’ve done just about all they have to offer, settle into the sumptuous velvet banquets at The Dining Room at The Vanderbilt for an elevated pub menu in the most delightful room. Newport does come with some hefty price tags, however, so if you need something a little more affordable, the quirky-cute Wayfinder has rates starting in the low hundreds and sits right over the bridge in Newport’s North End. Where to Eat: Stoneacre Brasserie for rotating seasonal dishes with a French twist, Stoneacre Garden for an al fresco lunch in the Courtyard or indoor dining in The Greenhouse, Cara at The Chanler, Giusto, The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn, Clarke Cooke House, Belle’s Cafe for breakfast inside a shipyard, and The Black Pearl for New England clam chowder so thick and creamy your spoon will stand straight up in the middle.
Fall Foliage in Colorado Springs, Colorado
For adventure-seekers who also happen to be leaf peepers, look no further than Colorado Springs. Visiting Colorado in the fall is one of the country’s best ways to enjoy autumn’s spectacular color show, including a view from the top of America’s highest railway and an all-inclusive cabin in the clouds. Colorado’s peak time for fall colors is typically mid-September through early November, but can vary depending on the weather. One of the best ways to enjoy the seasonal shades of gold, yellow and red is by taking advantage of the many scenic hiking opportunities that Colorado has to offer. Where to Stay: At the legendary Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort, The Broadmoor. It’s a must in Colorado Springs and would not be complete without a hike—especially in the fall. Located less than one mile from The Broadmoor, Seven Falls is one of Colorado’s most captivating natural wonders full of waterfalls, wildlife and golden aspens. Another one of Colorado Springs’ best destinations for hikers is Chamberlain Trail, a 4.4-mile loop trail for walking, hiking, mountain biking and wildlife spotting—keep a keen eye out for the mule deer who roam these parts. If you’re looking for an immersive nature stay, check into The Ranch at Emerald Valley, which is nestled in the lush Pike National Forest. This all-inclusive retreat has it all: scenic trails, fly fishing, exploring mountains on horseback and 13 private cabins with on-site Broadmoor chefs ready to serve five-star meals. There’s also the all-inclusive hideaway atop Cheyenne Mountain, Cloud Camp which sits 3,000 feet above The Broadmoor, and where 360-degree views provide a picture-perfect backdrop for luxurious lodge living. Where to Eat: There are 17 restaurants, cafés and lounges at The Broadmoor (including Golden Bee, Summit, Ristorante del Lago and La Taverne), but if you’re looking to dine outside the resort, there’s Sacred Ground Cafe, rustic Bavarian beer garden, Edelweiss, and vegan darling The Burrowing Owl.
Fall Colors in New Canaan, Connecticut
New Canaan is lovely this time of year. Situated an hour outside of Manhattan, on Connecticut’s Gold Coast, this little slice of Americana has it all: culture, fine dining, shopping, nature and plenty of under-the-radar celebs. The problem isn’t finding things to do here; it’s finding the time to do them all. Begin your day wandering around Grace Farms, an 80-acre oasis that merges unspoiled meadowlands with a winding river belt walkway. After that, it’s off to architect Philip Johnson’s Glass House to peruse his personal home, Studio, Sculpture Gallery and Pavilion in the Pond. Note: They do have limited capacity on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, between the hours of 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Both venues are a given for peak foliage, but just in case you need more ideas, there’s also Waveny Park, Irwin Park and the Browne Wildlife Sanctuary. Where to Stay: GrayBarns, a historic boutique property that’s anchored over the Silvermine River in between New Canaan and Norwalk. The renovated barn that dates back to 1810 includes an inn, tavern and mercantile on-site, and the aesthetic is très chic to say the least. The Inn at GrayBarns boasts six beautifully appointed king suites with luxurious full baths, bedrooms and living areas, but it’s the original beam structure, reclaimed wood and wide-board oak floors that tie each room to its natural environment. NEST thermostats, Le Labo amenities, SMEG and Nespresso appliances cap off the bespoke experience. Where to Eat: Elm. Located in the middle of the main drag on Elm Street, it’s tops for brunch, lunch or dinner. There’s (heated!) patio seating and Chef Luke Venner just debuted new fall specials like Brussels Sprout Pizza and Pumpkin Carbonara. Also noteworthy: the aforementioned Tavern at GrayBarns, Solé for upscale Italian food, Locali for wood-fired pizzas and Tequila Mockingbird, a laidback Mexican joint with character—and really good margs.
Fall Foliage in Boston, Massachusetts
When you think of foliage trips you probably think of the burbs, or tiny tucked-away towns and bucolic woods. Boston can hold its leaf-peeping own with the best of them though, and it’s an easy (read: pretty) drive along Route 126. With multiple parks, Harvard Square in Cambridge, Commonwealth Ave for impromptu stoop photo shoots and the Charles River Esplanade, there’s no shortage of spots to stop and peep. The absolute non-negotiable when it comes to tree territory is The Arnold Arboretum though. It was designed by NYC’s Central Park creator and the canopy of katsura trees smells like cotton candy when they turn. Where to Stay: The City on a Hill has its fair share of big name hotel chains, but if you’re seeking something with a little more personality, check into The Newbury Boston. The historic, luxury hotel used to be the first Ritz-Carlton in Boston and today it’s been reimagined with posh rooms and fireplace-clad suites in a landmark setting. It’s also within walking distance of Beacon Hill, the Boston Common and the Public Garden, awash in burnished copper and magnificent maroon tones come October. If you plan on taking in a Red Sox game while in town, there’s also the charming Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square, which is steps away from iconic Fenway Park and features a Baseball Suite in its honor. Since they are the “Official Hotel of the Boston Red Sox,” it’s only appropriate they would have such fan-friendly quarters filled with baseball memorabilia, an impressive collection of trading cards and a DVD library with more than 40 classic baseball films that you can enjoy watching on a 50” Flatpanel Smart TV. You can even walk across the street to the stadium from the hotel’s front door and admire the bright splashes of fall foliage and ornamental Japanese maple trees along the way. Another Boston favorite, Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, just launched a “Seasons in the Town and Country” package which includes a personalized picnic for two (+wine), along with insider recommendations for the best fall foliage spots in the town (Boston) and country (wider New England). And their swanky bathrooms with deep soaking tubs are just the way to unwind after a long day of leaf peeping. Where to Eat: Contessa, Coquette, The Banks Fish House, Zuma at Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Fox & the Knife, The Beehive, Woods Hill Pier 4, Bistro du Midi, Bakey and Buttermilk & Bourbon.
Fall Colors in Oak Brook, Chicago
With northern Illinois reaching optimal colors by mid-October, a jaunt to Chicago-adjacent neighborhood Oak Brook is a no-brainer for Northwesterners. Boasting over 250 tree species, the secluded suburb’s heavy summer rainfall produces sugar leaves that turn ruby, mauve and ginger come fall and Fullersburg Woods is home to some pretty impressive wildlife (think: red foxes, beavers, herons and songbirds) only seen from September through November. Apart from that, you can roam red oak pathways to snap pics in front of, out-of-this-world gardens once enjoyed by Frank Sinatra and the Morton Arboretum, which spans over 4,000 different trees. Where to stay: The newly refurbished Drake Oak Brook (not to be confused with the Drake Chicago) has reopened its legendary velvet ropes just in time for fall, to reveal over 10 acres of manicured grounds in a mirage of bright saffron foliage. There are new warming cocktails on the bar menu and when the weather permits, evenings call for dining al fresco beside heat lamps, before retiring to the library for old-fashioned board games. Where to Eat: Try traditional British high tea in the Colonial Room at the Drake or Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, a former neighborhood butcher shop turned restaurant for old-school quality chops. There’s also Brook’s Kitchen & Tap, Sawa’s Old Warsaw Restaurant for potato pancakes, pierogis and cheese blintzes that taste like you’re in Poland and Irish pub Shanahan’s for surprisingly stellar Cajun food.
Fall Foliage in New York City, New York
With comfortable temperatures and ever-changing colors, New York City comes alive in the fall. Central Park and Madison Square Park are a must for fall foliage framed by New York City’s iconic landmarks, such as the Flatiron Building near Madison Square Park. In October, see the city by boat on one of Hornblower’s specialty “Fall Foliage” cruises. These seasonal excursions take the scenic route up the Hudson River, past the George Washington Bridge, or you can book The Bateaux with a pianist or the Spirit with a buffet and live DJ. Where to stay: The Conrad New York Midtown. With a prime real estate location that’s central to everything (like the Museum of Modern Art and 5th ave shopping), this affordably-priced, pet-friendly hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay: free WiFi, the largest 24-hour gym in the area, plus park views for days. But the biggest draw would have to be the 562 super spacious suites with the crown jewel at the top—a two-story Penthouse with wraparound Central Park panoramas and a nightly live musical performance. You know, just in case you’re trying to go all out on your stay. For any male guests short on time, they also offer in-room straight razor shaves and off-the-menu packages at local favorite Truman’s Gentlemen’s Groomers, plus complimentary hair styling at the Dyson Midtown showroom salon. Where to eat: Obviously this is a toughie—it’s NYC after all—but if we’re sticking with the autumnal theme (and best fall restaurants in the Big Apple), then we’d have to go with Gramercy Tavern, ABC Kitchen, Olmsted, The Cabin NYC, The Greens and Cathédrale Restaurant.
Fall Colors in Portland, Oregon
Falling foliage is everywhere in the Northwest corner of Portland, with several leaf-crunching locations (and drives) perfect for Instagram documentation. Find yourself surrounded by fall vibes in the Japanese Garden inside Washington Park, where fall colors peak in October with fiery-hued Japanese maples interspersed throughout the area’s native evergreens. This is also thought to be the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan, so you can save yourself a plane ticket with this stunning stand-in. Where to Stay: The Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg, 45 minutes outside of Portland. After a tree-lined drive, you’ll arrive at wine country in all of its autumnal splendor. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the hotel is stationed on 30 lush acres and for the ultimate excuse to wine down, you can indulge in the property’s “pino-therapy” treatment, with a pinot-inspired scrub made from grape seed extracts grown onsite. Where to Eat: JORY at The Allison is a delicious taste of the Willamette Valley (with an 800-label wine list), but we also highly recommend: Proud Mary Cafe, Departure at The Nines, Gracie’s Apizza, Canard, Mucca Osteria and Scotch Lodge.
Fall Foliage in Burlington, Vermont
Located along Interstate 89 deep in the Green Mountain State, is the charming city of Burlington. Well-known for its epic skiing potential sure, but with Lake Champlain as its backdrop, B-town really comes alive in the fall—as do the leaves. Hop on a Bike & Brew Tour, sipping IPAs and sours at some of the top breweries as you take in the fall foliage, or head to sustainable Shelburne Farm for fresh cheddar cheeses from their herd of purebred Brown Swiss cows while you also enjoy the fall colors. Where to Stay: The boutique Hotel Vermont is our pick for a cozy autumnal retreat, because they offer their very own Fall Foliage Tour with scenic stops in Stowe and Smuggler’s Notch! We’d also check in just for the plaid flannel robes and the top floor kings, fitted with in-room fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. The rustic, yet modern, digs also feature local artists and Vermont partnerships (such as fruit and veggie picking for low-income families with The Gleaning & Food Rescue Program). Given how active this town is, they don’t skimp in the wellness arena either. There’s outdoor yoga via Sangha Studio and Hot Yoga Burlington, Pelotons in the gym and aromatherapy elixirs from the Bedtime Menu when you’re ready to hit the hay. Where to Eat: Brick Outdoor Kitchen & Bar, Bleu Northeast Seafood, Hen of the Wood and Red Hen Baking Co.
Fall Colors in Asheville, North Carolina
New England may get a lot of love in the foliage department, but contrary to popular belief, North Carolina is known for one of the world’s longest fall color seasons. And their thriving mountain city, Asheville, is smack dab in the middle of the kaleidoscope action, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Weather experts have even predicted a longer, warmer fall with those covetable auburn hues transitioning later this year, so there’s plenty of time to hit the open road. Download PeakFinder to spy the brightest leaves, but be sure to save room on your itinerary for a day exploring the Biltmore, AKA “America’s Largest Home.” Where to Stay: Applewood Manor, a meticulously curated boutique B&B that’s just a short walk from downtown Asheville. With six well-appointed rooms featuring Duxiana beds, plus art and furnishings from 1stDibs, it’s the perfect escape for foliage-seeking couples this fall and has added perks like in-room fireplaces, private porches and fresh-baked cookies upon welcome. Another family-friendly option is The Horse Shoe Farm. Technically this dreamy enclave of private manor homes and cottages is outside Asheville (around 30 minutes and only 10 from the Asheville Regional Airport), but you can’t beat its privacy factor or artisan appeal. The family-run farm has numerous small-to-spacious abodes to choose from, but our favorite is The Magnolia Manor, which overlooks Mount Pisgah vista. When you’re not enjoying your luxe quarters, you’ll want to swing by The Silo to journal or meditate and The Staple Spa, which is you guessed it: a spa set in a boho-chic stable. For a downtown Asheville option, we also like The Foundry, a refined boutique hotel housed within the city’s old steel foundry in the heart of The Block neighborhood. Book the “Picnic in the Block” experience in partnership with Dreamscape Luxury Picnics, where you’ll be treated to a grazing board for two with seasonal fruit, house-made dips, cheese and meats, a bottle of wine, Instagrammable décor and a bluetooth speaker. Where to Eat: We’re big fans of Benne on Eagle, Cúrate, OWL Bakery, Rhubarb, Sovereign Remedies and Tupelo Honey Café for crazy good biscuits.
Fall Foliage in Kennebunkport, Maine
For a late October getaway, head to Kennebunkport to live your best nautical-inspired life. I-95 will deposit you in the middle of this historic village, appropriately painted yellow and orange for golden hour. Once a quiet coastal town, it’s been gaining notoriety as a New England paradise for water sports, cocktail culture and overflowing lobster rolls, plus those auburn-tinged leaves. Our ideal day involves a sail on the 55-foot Schooner Eleanor, from Cape Arundel to Cape Porpoise, but if you prefer to witness Kennebunks’ rugged landscape on foot, there are foliage-covered pathways like The Eastern Trail. Where to Stay: Road-tripping adults sans kids will appreciate a romantic rendezvous at Cape Arundel Inn & Resort with shimmering ocean views, while families hoping to stay in downtown Kennebunkport should look no further than the Kennebunkport Inn, which was once a tea merchant’s mansion. If you haven’t gotten enough of the water, book a floating room over it at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel with panoramic windows and private balconies. There’s also the uber-luxe White Barn Inn & Spa for when you really want to go all out. Where to Eat: The Boathouse Restaurant, Earth at Hidden Pond, Tides Beach Club, Little Barn at White Barn Inn and The Burleigh.
Fall Colors in Manchester, Vermont
Take Route 30 to Manchester, VT, the star of postcard-perfect towns and a welcoming spot to bask in the glowing red, green and gold fall foliage. Perched at the foot of Mount Equinox in the Battenkill River Valley, this year-round destination has a little something for everyone, including shopping at the Manchester Designer Outlets, dining at artisanal restaurants and loads of outdoor activities. Explore Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, then drive past the ski resorts of Bromley and Stratton, whose slopes are blanketed in amber during the fall. Where to Stay: The Kimpton Taconic is a cozy New England hotel that boasts expansive views of the Taconic and Green Mountain ranges and offers surprising touches like locally-made walking sticks, hiking survival kits and on-site complimentary bikes. The hotel has even put together a list of nearby fall activities, so all you have to do is focus on spending the day soaking in those famous bursts of orange, gold and red. Where to Eat: Copper Grouse, Marsh Tavern at The Equinox, The Silver Fork and Ye Olde Tavern.
Fall Foliage in Denver, Colorado
A trip to Denver always exceeds expectations when it comes to the never-ending list of outdoor activities: hiking, biking, white water rafting, trail running, apple and pumpkin picking and just plain walking around. The Mile High City is unparalleled for breathtaking panoramas, plus one of the longest periods of fall colors in the country, due to its five different climate zones within a two-hour drive of downtown. Denver is also home to the world-renowned concert venue, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, that’s built out of towering red rock monuments. Where to Stay: Conveniently positioned in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Denver provides the ideal home base for pre- and post-adventure. Enjoy first-in-class accommodations when you’re not visiting some of the most picturesque autumn scenes ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level and perhaps a spa treatment to recharge the batteries (and a strained neck) after staring up at trees all day. The Ritz is close to Golden Gate Canyon Park, Lake Dillon and Evergreen, to gaze at photo-worthy aspen groves, or you can bike through scenic Cherry Creek State Park before returning to the hotel for a delicious meal at Denver’s fine dining steakhouse, ELWAY’S Downtown. Where to Eat: The Wolf’s Tailor, Tavernetta, Safta, Super Mega Bien and Death & Co at The Ramble (another A+ hotel in Denver), Comal Heritage Food Incubator, Rioja and Sushi Den. Be sure to check out the recently-opened Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox for a “mix tape” of cuisine and great music.
Fall Colors in Westerly, Rhode Island
When you think of Westerly, sandy beaches and the ocean most likely come to mind (or Taylor Swift’s summer home), but this Rhode Island gem transforms in the fall, with the ultimate juxtaposition of seaside backdrops and changing leaves. Spend your days climbing sandy dunes, taking long drives along Route 1A and Route 102 or biking to the Watch Hill Lighthouse, then settle into bistro lounges at the area’s top hotels for cocktails and snacks, or s’mores around a fire pit in the evening. Where to Stay: Check in to the Weekapaug Inn, then spend the afternoon outdoors with the on-staff naturalist Teddy Beahm for guided hikes, tide pool walks and time-honored New England leaf peeping! And if it happens to be muddy one day, not to worry…you can select a jacket and boots from the Hunter Borrowing Closet. Where to Eat: The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn, The Olympia Tea Room, Coast at Ocean House, plus the Club Room for brunch and Matunuck Oyster Bar (a little bit of a drive, but so worth it for this oyster fishery on Potter Pond).
Fall Foliage in The Finger Lakes, New York
This 9,000 square mile nook of the Upstate New York woods takes fall seriously and with 11 spindly lakes spreading far and wide around Route 89, waterfront leaf peeping is at its prime come mid-October. Take in the sights from the top of Taughannock Falls State Park (which boasts a 400-ft waterfall higher than Niagara!), get a bird’s eye view of the reservoirs from the comfort of your own hot air balloon, board the old-world steamboat replica Canandaigua Lady for a “Water to Wine Tour” with dockside transportation to local wineries, or partake in a little family fun at the Trinity Valley Corn Maze, where baby farm animals and tractor train rides await. Tim’s Pumpkin Patch is also not to be missed, as much for the 40 acres of impressive gourds as for the fresh-baked whoopie pies. Where to Stay: On the water of course, at one of the five Inns of Aurora, which is owned and operated by none other than American Girl founder Pleasant T. Rowland. Custom rooms decorated by MacKenzie-Childs and a farm-to-table restaurant round out the list of onsite perks. Where to Eat: 1833 Kitchen and Bar at the Inns of Aurora, Rose Tavern at The Lake House on Canandaigua, F.L.X. Table (in Geneva), Bluewater Grill, Rosalie’s Cucina, Mirbeau Inn & Spa and The Krebs (in Skaneateles) and obviously a pit stop at Finger Lakes Cider House is necessary with five cideries under one roof. Up next, get your Fall Quotes ready so you can show off your Cozy Autumnal Porches That Are Serious #FallPorchGoals.
