There is something uniquely beautiful about fall in the United States that transforms every person that’s ever been there. The time before winters, the air in most parts of the US turn crisp, the trees turn from summery greens to fiery shades of reds, oranges, and golds, and the atmosphere fills with the comforting scent of cinnamon, apples, and pumpkin spice.
We have always believed that autumn is the ideal season to travel to the United States because the landscapes feel alive in a way that summer or winter (which are beautiful in their own right) cannot replicate.
As enthusiasts, who have explored many corners of the country during this magical time, we can say with confidence that the best travel spots in the US during fall are your best chance at savoring breathtaking views.
Why Fall Feels Like the Perfect Time to Travel
For us, fall has always felt like the season that opens up both reflection and adventure. The sunlight in the mornings, the chill in the evenings, and the way even the simplest roads look like they belong in a painting make this season irresistible for travelers.
The best travel spots in the US during this time are often less crowded than in summer, which means you can enjoy both the scenery and the peace. No matter what you prefer, from cities, peaceful countryside drives, or the quiet but huge national parks, fall has a unique charm of its own that no other season can match.
New England
When we think about the best travel spots in the US for fall, New England immediately comes to mind. We have people who have driven through Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine during peak foliage season, they loved each mile of it.
The towering maples, birches, and grand old oak trees make the paths look like a beautiful scene from a movie. We still remember our drive along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, where every bend in the road met us with a new color and hue.
We highly recommend stopping in small towns along the way for hot cider, local craft fairs, and walking across covered bridges making you feel lost in time.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you are seeking a mix of peaceful nature trails, wildlife sightings, and majestic mountain views, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is among the top places to visit in the US during autumn.
When we visited in early October, the forests were dressed in shades of gold and amber, the air was filled with the scent of pine and earth, and we saw deer graze quietly. Hiking in the Smokies during fall turned out to be more than just an outdoor activity, it left us feeling deeply connected to the land.
Aspen and the Rockies
Colorado in autumn has a distinct beauty, and Aspen is its crown jewel. In this part of the Rockies, the leaves turn a beautiful gold that seems to glow under the sun.
We once stood at the edge of Maroon Bells Lake just after sunrise, watching the snow covered peaks. It turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of our lives. Aspen is hands down one of the best travel spots in the US when the fall season arrives.
Hudson Valley
For travelers who enjoy natural beauty and cultural experiences simultaneously, the Hudson Valley in New York is easily one of the top places to visit in the US in the fall. Our trip there included visits to hillside wineries, art galleries, and farmers’ markets overflowing with pumpkins and late-season apples.
The rolling hills seemed as if they were hand painted in different shades of crimson, orange, and gold, creating a backdrop that felt almost too perfect to be real. It is the kind of destination where you can explore all day and then unwind with a glass of wine as the sun sets.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley in California offers an entirely different kind of fall magic. The grape harvest in autumn fills the air with a rich, fruity aroma, and the vineyards have a glow of their own. We spent a few days here enjoying tastings at small family-run wineries and long walks through rows of vines heavy with ripe fruit.
Even if wine is not your primary reason for visiting, the warm sunlight, cooler evenings, and slower pace make it one of the best travel spots in the US for relaxation.
Door County
Wisconsin’s Door County is a place that seems made for fall. The small towns along the peninsula are very welcoming, and the shoreline of Lake Michigan has endless scenic viewpoints.
We spent our days driving along winding roads, stopping for apple cider donuts at local bakeries, and watching the sun sink into the lake. For travelers looking to escape the noise of big cities, Door County is one of the top places to visit in the US in the fall.
Blue Ridge Parkway
For those who love the open road, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a journey worth taking. Stretching through North Carolina and Virginia, this winding route offers mile after mile of panoramic mountain views.
We remember pulling over at one overlook to take in the sight of rolling stretching as far as the eye could see. It is one of the best travel spots in the US if your idea of the perfect trip involves a slow drive and endless photo opportunities.
How to Plan a Fall Trip You Will Always Remember
Planning a fall trip is as much about timing as it is about location.
- In the US, they have foliage maps (also available online) that you can check before deciding on your travel dates to ensure you arrive during peak colors.
- Dressing in layers helps with the fluctuating temperatures
- Keep your schedule flexible to allow for unexpected detours to small towns or scenic trails.
- The best travel spots in the US often reward travelers who take the time to explore beyond the main attractions
Some of our most treasured memories have come from these spontaneous moments.
The Feeling That Makes Fall Travel Special
While these destinations are worth visiting year-round, fall gives them a quality that feels both peaceful and exhilarating. Walking through a forest carpeted in leaves, breathing in the cool air, or ending a day with a warm drink by the fire creates a sense of contentment that is hard to describe.
Book Your US Fall Trip The Easiest Way
Once you have decided which of these top places to visit in the US is calling to you, the next step is to turn your plan into reality.
We always find that booking flights, hotels, and experiences in one place makes the process smooth and enjoyable, which is why we recommend using JustBuyTravel.
You can easily compare prices, secure the best deals, and organize your entire trip without the stress of juggling multiple sites. Whether you dream of staying in a cozy Vermont cabin, a vineyard guesthouse in Napa, or in Aspen, you can arrange it all in minutes and start counting down to your unforgettable fall adventure in the US
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