Fall Weekend Family Getaways: Unforgettable Autumn Escapes Suzy Guese September 21, 2024 Travel Guide Back to school? More like back to cool! Fall is here, and you know what that means! Prime travel season is seriously heating up right as the temperatures are cooling down. Autumn brings with it some of the most colorful nature scenes you’ll find all year round, minus the summertime crowds and heat. That leans travel perfection, wherever you decide to venture to. So, what do you say? Is a weekend getaway just what you need to start up the travel season? We think so! Here are some fabulous destinations to visit in the fall! Savannah, Georgia With its historic squares, live oaks dripping in Spanish moss, and quaint cobblestone streets, Savannah makes for quite the pretty picture when fall rolls around. The weather at this time of year is lovely, in stark contrast to the city’s summers. Plus, Savannah has a beautifully restored Historic District with more than 800 restored structures. Savannah’s got more than just charm, though. It also has ghosts, or so they say. Often referred to as America’s most haunted city, Savannah boasts several downright spooky attractions such as the Bonaventure Cemetery, the Colonial Park Cemetery, and several allegedly haunted historic mansions, including the Mercer Williams House and the Sorrel Weed House. The city even claims a haunted brewery, the Moon River Brewing Company. Who knows who might join you for a pint?! Willamette Valley, Oregon Just outside Portland, you’ll find one of Oregon’s autumn treasures—Willamette Valley, known as the state’s wine country. Willamette Valley is home to some of the country’s best wineries, boasting over 200 vineyards in a relatively compact area. If you’re visiting the Portland area in the fall, you won’t just find fine Rieslings and pinot noirs—but also tons of colorful leaves! Leaf peeping is at its prime around these parts from mid to late October. Willamette Valley is lined with many quaint historic towns to visit in between vineyard stops. Basically, it’s gorgeous. Milwaukee, Wisconsin Nothing quite says fall getaway like apple picking. And you’ll find plenty of opportunities in and around Milwaukee this time of year! Apple pickers can find some of the best and most diverse apple varieties just outside of town in New Berlin at Weston’s Antique Apple Orchard. The orchard offers more than 100 apple varieties, many of which are extremely rare. Post apple picking, you can head back into Milwaukee to sip a pint of local beer and snack on some cheese curds at one of the city’s many breweries. Yum! Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Easily accessible from nearby Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park shines in autumn. This park presents visitors with ideal scenic views from mid-September through mid-October. And if you’re a hiker, the park has over 300 hiking trails spread across its 4415-mile area. There’s a trail for every skill level, from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain peak climbs. Rocky Mountain National Park also offers some of the state’s best drives, including Trail Ridge Road, with views of the forest below from some 12,000 feet up. Don’t look down! Stowe, Vermont Stowe, Vermont You didn’t think we’d get through a list of autumn weekend getaways without mentioning New England, did you? New England is one of the ultimate fall getaway hotspots — and for good reason. This region has some of the most beautiful fall foliage displays in the country, and Stowe, Vermont has some of the region’s most eye-popping scenes. This classic New England village sits at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, and affords visitors great leaf peeping opportunities from early September through November. One of the best ways to see the changing colors in Stowe is to hop in the car and roam the area’s scenic back roads. The drive to Stowe Hollow has become a favorite for leaf seekers in the fall, thanks to its positioning at the foot of the Worcester Mountains. Asheville, North Carolina Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina Asheville, North Carolina is a quintessential fall destination, offering a mesmerizing blend of history, nature, and a spirited craft beer culture. At the heart of the city stands the Biltmore Estate, America’s grandest home. During autumn, its vast grounds and majestic rooms are accentuated with fall-themed decorations, creating a vibrant yet elegant spectacle. Just a short drive away, the Blue Ridge Parkway, often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” unfurls a panorama of rich autumn hues, providing travelers with a breathtaking canvas of seasonal colors. After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind in one of Asheville’s renowned craft breweries, sipping on distinctive brews and enjoying the comforting warmth of the indoors, making it a perfect end to a crisp fall day. Editor’s Note: Although Asheville is steadily recovering from Hurricane Helene, some areas, including the Biltmore Estate and surrounding village, are still undergoing repairs as of October 2024, so check for updated information before planning your visit. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada Lake Tahoe Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe transforms into a picturesque haven during the fall. The region boasts scenic drives that circle the pristine lake, revealing landscapes punctuated by golden aspens and the contrasting white of snow-capped peaks. For those keen to venture on foot, Lake Tahoe offers renowned hiking trails such as Eagle Falls and Marlette Lake. These paths meander through terrains that flaunt the area’s autumnal beauty, with panoramic views at every turn. For some water-based serenity, paddleboarding on the lake’s calm waters is a must, especially as the cooler season sees fewer tourists. Gliding over the clear water with a backdrop of fall foliage and mountain ranges, one truly experiences the essence of a Lake Tahoe autumn. Bar Harbor, Maine Bar Harbor, Maine In the fall, Bar Harbor, Maine comes alive with a distinctive charm. Central to its allure is Acadia National Park, where the historic carriage roads become pathways to autumn’s splendor. Whether one chooses to stroll, cycle, or relish a nostalgic horse-drawn carriage ride, the vibrant fall foliage provides a captivating backdrop. And the chill in the air doesn’t deter the whales; late-season whale-watching excursions offer visitors a chance to witness the majesty of these marine giants against a canvas of changing leaves. After a day of exploration, there’s no better way to immerse oneself in local tradition than by indulging in a lobster feast. The succulent flavors of Maine’s iconic dish, savored amid the crisp fall atmosphere, create an unforgettable experience. Santa Fe, New Mexico Santa Fe, New Mexico With its mixture of history, culture, and natural beauty, Santa Fe, New Mexico becomes particularly enchanting during the fall. And the high desert landscape, dotted with changing cottonwoods, reveals its golden hues best when viewed from a hot air balloon, floating gracefully over the vast expanse. On solid ground, Canyon Road awaits the discerning traveler, offering a vibrant maze of over 100 art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, each echoing the city’s particular blend of Spanish, Native American, and Western influences. As autumn sets in, the streets are filled with the rich aroma of chilis roasting—a New Mexico tradition. The sizzle and scent of freshly roasted green chilis evoke a sense of warmth, making it a must-experience ritual for anyone seeking the authentic flavor of a Santa Fe fall. You Might Also Enjoy: How to Get the Most Out of Your Weekend Getaway The Berkshires, Massachusetts Mount Greylock, Summit View Blanketed in the radiant foliage of western Massachusetts in the autumn, the Berkshires are a sanctuary of culture, history, and natural beauty. The season offers the perfect setting for cultural excursions, like a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum, where one can delve into the iconic illustrations that capture the essence of American life. The arts come alive at one of the many resident theater companies in the area, including the Berkshire Theatre Group, where every performance is accentuated by the backdrop of vibrant autumnal hues. For those with a penchant for vintage treasures, towns like Great Barrington beckon with their quaint antique shops, offering a cozy refuge on a crisp day. To truly capture the region’s fall splendor, a journey to Mount Greylock is a must. Whether by car or on foot, the ascent culminates in panoramic views of a landscape awash in brilliant fall colors. FAQs: Q: When is the best time to see fall foliage in these destinations? A: Fall foliage typically peaks between late September and mid-October in most of the listed destinations. However, it can vary based on the region. In New England and the Rockies, colors are at their best from late September to mid-October, while in the southern states, the peak is usually mid-to-late October. Q: Are these destinations crowded during the fall season? A: While fall is a popular travel season, it’s generally less crowded than summer. Some destinations, like Rocky Mountain National Park and Asheville, may experience higher visitor numbers, especially on weekends. However, quieter spots like the Berkshires or Willamette Valley offer more peaceful experiences. Q: What is the weather like in these fall destinations? A: Fall weather varies by region. Savannah and Santa Fe tend to be milder, with pleasant daytime temperatures. In contrast, the Rockies and Vermont can experience cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Layering is recommended for most of these destinations, as mornings and evenings can be chilly. Q: Is there public transportation available at these destinations? A: Public transportation is available in cities like Savannah and Milwaukee, though renting a car is more convenient for places like the Berkshires, Willamette Valley, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Asheville and Santa Fe are walkable but may require a vehicle for exploring nearby attractions. Q: What types of accommodations are available in these areas? A: Accommodations range from boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in Savannah, Stowe, and the Berkshires to larger hotels and resorts in Asheville, Lake Tahoe, and Milwaukee. Vacation rentals are also popular, particularly in scenic areas like Bar Harbor and Willamette Valley. Q: What are some key fall festivals to look for in these areas? A: Each of these fall destinations offers seasonal events. In Savannah, check out the Savannah Food and Wine Festival, which highlights Southern cuisine and regional wines. Willamette Valley hosts the Willamette Valley Wine Country Thanksgiving, a celebration featuring wine tastings and harvest dinners. A few hours drive from Milwaukee you’ll find the Bayfield Apple Festival, perfect for those interested in local produce and fall activities. In Stowe, Vermont, the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival showcases local crafts and live music amidst stunning fall scenery. Asheville’s LEAF Global Arts Festival blends music, arts, and local food against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, while Bar Harbor features the Acadia Oktoberfest, combining beer tastings with vibrant autumn views. Where will you be traveling this fall? Let us know in the comments!
