Incredible Fall Destinations in the United States to visit this year! From the northeast to southwest – get inspired to travel around the United States this fall!
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Acadia National Park, Maine
Recommended by Alicia of Travels With The Crew
Acadia National Park in Maine is a popular destination for tourists all year round. But, the fall is one of the best times to visit because it’s less crowded, and you get to enjoy beautiful foliage that other seasons don’t offer. Here is a list of some of our favorite things about visiting Acadia in the Fall!
Hike or drive up to Cadillac mountain to watch the sunrise. The Cadillac Mountain Sunrise is one of the most spectacular views, and it’s just a short drive up from Bar Harbor. Walk down to Otter Cliff off of South Road for some beautiful rock formations and tide pools. It’s best during low tide! Check out Thunder Hole at high tide – you’ll see waves crashing against jagged rocks on the other side, then creating an incredible thunderous noise as they rush back into the ocean
Don’t forget your camera because these hikes are perfect opportunities to capture some great Fall foliage. The leaves change colors to beautiful shades of orange, yellow, and red. It makes Fall the perfect time to visit Acadia National Park. In nearby Bar Harbor there are lots of great places to eat. You have to try the lobster rolls from The Stadium – they’re unbeatable! Try the well-known Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream. It’s a must-have due to the interesting flavors and the rich taste. You can also find great hotels in Bar Harbor. I recommend the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, it’s one of the best in town for comfort and convenience.
Newport, Rhode Island
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
The adorable seaside town of Newport is often thought of as a great summer destination (which it is), but you can avoid the crowds by visiting in the fall! There are incredible fall colors bordered by breathtaking beaches and sea cliffs – making it a wonderful fall destination in the United States.
If it’s still warm when you visit, you can take a sailboat around to enjoy views from the water. If it’s later in the fall and the sailboats are put away, you can still enjoy the views. The 3.5 mile Cliff Walk overlooks the sharp sea cliffs of Aquidneck Island with the famous Newport mansions on the other side of the path. Be sure to pack a jacket for the sea breeze! While you’re nearby, you can take a tour of The Breakers, one of the most famous mansions with beautiful architecture.
Tennis fans can visit the Tennis Hall of Fame while car aficionados can explore the Audobain Museum! Grab breakfast at the Cru Cafe for delicious stuffed french toast! Fresh lobster – a New England staple – can be found at the Lobster Shack! In the evening, walk around Bannister’s Wharf for some great shopping and atmosphere.
Salem, Massachusettes
Recommended by Camila of Travel Cami
Salem, in Massachusetts, is definitely one of the best fall destinations in the USA!
The small New England town was the place where the famous Salem Witch Trials happened in 1692 and therefore has a very dark past. However, the inhabitants of Salem turned things around by using Salem’s witch-related history to make it one of the most epic Halloween destinations in the world.
Today, most of Salem’s attractions are related to the witch trials. Some of the most popular things to do there include visiting The Witch House, the Salem Witch Museum, and even touring the Salem Witch Villa. You can read about more things to do in Salem here.
Regarding places to stay, the Salem Inn is a good choice. Also, there is the Hawthorne Hotel if you are feeling adventurous: the Hawthorne is said to be one of the most haunted hotels in the country. it is not for the faint of heart, that’s for sure.
Fall is for sure the best time to visit Salem because that is when most of the city’s attractions will be open. If you visit in October, there will be even costume contests and parades to attend! Make sure to get your Halloween spirit on and have the time of your life in this super quaint and unique town.
The Berkshires, Massachusettes
Recommended by Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles
The mountainous Berkshires region in Western Massachusetts is a spectacle for the eyes, particularly in autumn. During this time, the area comes to life with vibrant foliage. Those looking to witness the humbling hues can hike up to breathtaking Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation as well as visit the beautiful Stockbridge Bowl boat launch.
Visitors can also infuse some culture into their leaf-peeping with a fun visit to Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge. This popular attraction is home to the largest Rockwell collection in the world. Travelers may also consider touring The Mount, Edith Wharton’s former estate. Additionally, those who relish storybook settings will enjoy an enchanting visit to Santarella Gingerbread House. Although this fairytale property is private, visitors can book a stay or rent it for special events.
Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal at John Andrews Farmhouse Restaurant in South Egremont as well as at 51 Park Restaurant & Tavern or Salmon Run Fish House in Lee.
After a fun day of exploration, travelers will enjoy a relaxing stay at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. This iconic property is always festively fashioned for fall, offering visitors the option of four distinct lodging styles, including a converted firehouse!
Finger Lakes, New York
Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?
Fall is the best time of year to visit New York’s famous wine producing Finger Lakes region for unforgettable hikes surrounded by vibrant Autumnal foliage.
Nature lovers are spoiled for choice in the Finger Lakes, with endless gorges to explore and waterfalls to photograph.
However, the three unmissable things to do are a flat and easy 2 mile round trip hike to the tallest single drop waterfall East of the Rockies at Taughannock Falls; hiking to the extraordinary rainbow falls scene inside Watkins Glen and visiting the Finger Lakes’ hidden gem – Letchworth State Park.
Letchworth is a little further out from popular Cayuga and Seneca Lakes, which means fewer tourists and a more local feel. The stunning park features three postcard perfect waterfalls, endless miles of trails and one of the most magical sunrises in the US.
When the colors change in peak Fall season, golden yellows and oranges radiate throughout Letchworth but particularly around the 400 ft deep horseshoe shaped canyon at Great Bend Overlook.
Set up base in Watkins Glen for a central Finger Lakes location and excellent amenities. Eat at Nickel’s Pit barbecue or Thai Elephants, both are fantastic. For a romantic stay, look no further than top rated Idlwilde B&B located just a few minutes walk from Watkins Glen’s main street.
Hudson Valley, New York
Recommended by James of Travel Collecting
The Hudson Valley in New York State is a wonderful fall destination. First up, the Hudson Valley is one of the best places in the United States to see fall foliage. The valley runs north- south between Albany and New York City, which means that it takes several weeks for the peak color to move its way down, maximizing your chances of seeing spectacular color. There are also several hilly areas in the valley, and the Catskill Mountains are right next door. The difference in altitude also means that there is beautiful color for several weeks. The color peaks in mid-October in the mid-Hudson Valley region.
The area is also a center for agritourism and there are several U-pick farms. Fall is apple and pear season, and you can pick bags full of fresh apples. Many of the farms have hayrides and corn mazes too. There are also several pumpkin patches where you can find the perfect pumpkin just waiting to be carved into a Halloween Jack O’ Lantern.
The valley is a center for Halloween celebrations. Highlights include the legendary Sleepy Hollow; the Jack O’ Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson (there are over 7,000 hand-carved Jack O’ Lanterns!); and the Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses in Esopus.
A unique place to stay is the classic Victorian era Mohonk Mountain House. There are wonderful restaurants in Kingston (Ole Savannah on the waterfront is a favorite) and Hudson.
Annapolis, Maryland
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Annapolis is often overlooked for it’s larger Maryland counterpart – Baltimore. While Baltimore has plenty of things to do, Annapolis is a stunning, walkable historic city!
Walking around Annapolis means you’re literally walking through American History. Annapolis was the first peacetime capital of the United States in 1784. You’ll also find homes of numerous American revolutionaries and politicians – including James Brice (the first governor of Maryland), and William Paca. The William Paca House & Garden are National Historic Landmarks and only $5 to explore! The Hammond-Harwood House nearby is a classic example of Colonial architecture. It’s a five-part brick house that are connected through small tunnels. It’s the only existing work of colonial academic architecture.
While walking around the city, keep an eye out for small-city gems like the Old Fox Bookstore, Guzzi Gifts’ Christmas Corner, and Resails (which uses old sails of ships in their products!). There are plenty of these types of stores to shop in! For food, you’ll find many small locally-owned restaurants in Annapolis! Sofi’s Creperie has mouth-watering crepes, while Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls have fresh seafood! Get an afternoon cocktail at Red Red Wine Bar and indulge your sweet tooth at Uncle Bob’s Fudge Kitchen – both on Main Street!
Annapolis has a wonderful waterside to walk along as well – making it a perfect fall destination in the United States!
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Waking up tot hes ounds of waves crashing on the sand is perfect at any time of the year. However, the lack of crowds and cooler weather make fall a great time to visit the Outer Banks. The barrier islands of North Carolina empty after Labor Day weekend, meaning the miles of beach have even more room for visitors.
Without the intense heat of summer, you can spend your days relaxing by the water – enjoying the sounds of waves crashing along the shoreline. The beaches of the Outer Banks are world famous and the sunrises are absolutely breathtaking. For travelers who enjoy spotting nature, the wild horses of the Outer Banks can be spotted all year long. Take in history at the Wright Brothers’ Memorial, visit the stunning Cape Hatteras lighthouse, or explore Historic Corolla Park.
Be sure to indulge yourself in some Duck Donuts – you order ahead so they’re freshly made and still warm when you pick them up. There are a few locations throughout the area – so no matter where you stay in the Outer Banks, there’s a location nearby. Many travelers overlook beach destinations in the fall, but if you want to avoid the crowds, fall really is the best time to visit!
Naples and Marco Island, Florida
Recommended by Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide
Naples and Marco Island, Florida in southwest Florida — just minutes from each other and collectively known as the Paradise Coast — are two of the best Fall destinations in the US. The rainy season has ended, temperatures are moderate and humidity is low. At the beaches, the sun is less intense and the waters of the Gulf are still warm and beautiful. It’s a perfect time of year for fun in the sun when beaches are still uncrowded.Take a day off from the beach and enjoy premier shopping, take in a show, or maybe go hiking on the nearby trails. The summer rains having replenished the Everglades and nature is on full display with herons, egrets, ospreys, and a host of other seasonal birds. Drive the short distance for an exhilarating airboat ride or a quiet hike on boardwalk trails.
The dining scene in Naples and Marco Island offers foodies a lot to choose from. Celebration Park, the local food truck park between Naples and Marco, is a fun and casual place to hang out and eat, or for an upscale dinner, reserve a table at DaVinci, one of the best restaurants in Marco Island. Whether you’re in Naples or Marco Island at the end of the day, head to the nearest beach to join the celebration and enjoy a fiery sunset over the Gulf.
Michigan
Recommended by My Michigan Travel
Michigan in the fall is when the state is at its best. Cider mills dot the state, and visiting them each autumn is practically a rite of passage. Freshly made cider is served icy cold, piping hot, or even occasionally in slushie form. Though some of the cider mills do make the alcoholic kind, the focus is usually on the non-alcoholic version so it’s very family-friendly. Sugar coated cider mill donuts are also a must and each mill location has their own kind. Many of the cider mills have additional fall activities during peak season, with corn mazes, pumpkin patches, kids activities, and more drawing in crowds.
You’ll also want to check out the fall foliage while you’re visiting. The leaves start turning in the Upper Peninsula first, and then the colors gradually make their way south through the rest of the state. There are scenic drives in many of the state parks or along many state highways. Holly State Park is a great spot not far from the Detroit area in the southern part of the state. The famous Tunnel of Trees along M-119 near Petoskey is another top area for viewing. In this area, the scenic foliage combines with several miles of road overlooking Lake Michigan to give a deep blue contrast to the reds, oranges, and yellows in the trees.
Door County, Wisconsin
Recommended by Jen of Glasses & Boarding Passes
While the east coast often gets most of the leaf-peeping hype, the midwest puts on a pretty good show of its own! Door County, Wisconsin is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is one of the best fall destinations in the United States not only for its fall foliage, but for the plethora of fall-themed things to do in the area!
Each of Door County’s cute coastal towns hosts a fall fest of some sort every year. Be sure to catch Fish Creek’s Fall Harvest Fest or Bailey’s Harbor AutumnFest for a fun-filled day of music, food, vendors, crafts, and activities.
You can’t miss a stop by Lautenbach’s orchards to pick apples or purchase homemade apple baked goods from their general store. They also offer tastings of wine made with local grapes, cherries, and apples!
To enjoy the gorgeous yellow and orange fall foliage, visit one of several Door County Parks. Peninsula State Park and Cave Point County Park are both located on the coast of Lake Michigan and are filled with numerous trails and campgrounds.
Grab dinner at a local restaurant like Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza and spend the night in one of Door County’s many bed and breakfasts such as Thorp House Inn & Cottages.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Recommended by Diane of Travels with Eli
Breckenridge, Colorado is a popular ski resort destination in the winter and a fun mountain town to visit in the summer. But, fall is the perfect time to vacation in Breckenridge. The weather is absolutely perfect with sunny days and cool crisp nights. Crowds are at a minimum, and lodging prices are usually more reasonable than during peak season. On top of that, the changing aspens and groundcover turn the mountains a stunning yellow, orange, and red.
There are many great ways to experience the fall colors in Breckenridge. Take a free ride on the Breckenridge gondola to the base of Peak 8, hike or bike on one of the many trails near town, or take a drive up the scenic Boreas Pass road. After a fun day exploring the mountains, dine at one of the many amazing restaurants in Breckenridge. The Canteen is a local’s favorite with amazing food and a casual atmosphere. Or, grab a beer at Broken Compass or Breckenridge Brewery.
Splurge and stay at the best lodging option in Breckenridge, the Grand Lodge on Peak 7. The views are incredible from every room and the indoor/outdoor pool and hot tubs are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Recommended by Matt & Alysha of Wheatless Wanderlust
Rocky Mountain National Park is a real treat in the fall. Pops of yellow and orange color dotting the landscape and active wildlife make the fall the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park.
While you’re in the park, you’re going to want to hike. Whether you’re up for a long, grueling climb to a pristine alpine lake, or you want a short stroll along the lakeshore searching for moose, you’ll find it in the Rockies. Two of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park are the hike to Dream Lake (two miles round trip) and the trek up to Sky Pond (8.5 miles round trip).
The other thing you don’t want to miss is the wildlife. The fall is when you’ll witness the elk rut that features bugling male elk with massive antlers and big congregations of female elk. Moraine Park, which is a big open field in the middle of the park, is a great place to see the action, particularly at dusk. Sprague Lake and the Green Mountain Trail out to Big Meadows are great places to see the resident moose.
When it comes to staying at Rocky Mountain National Park, you essentially have two options on the more popular eastern side of the park. The first is camping inside the park, which requires advance reservations in most cases. The second is staying in Estes Park, which is the town right outside the park entrance and is a perfect home base, with plenty of services like grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping.
Zion National Park, Utah
Recommended by Deanne of Scenic and Savvy
Zion National Park in southwestern Utah is the third most visited national park in the country. It’s easy to see why. Zion encompasses 229 square miles of spectacular sandstone cliffs, red rock canyons, forested plateaus, wilderness, rivers, streams and much more.
Average summer temperatures can reach a steamy 100 degrees, so a better time to visit this scenic masterpiece is in the fall. Fall brings moderate weather, fewer crowds, and changing colors which make the surrounding scenery even more stunning.
There are a number of outdoor adventures to experience in the park including horseback riding, canyoneering and hiking. Zion is home to two world-famous hikes: Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.
Lodging inside the park makes hiking and exploring very convenient. Just step outside and the adventure begins. You can choose from rustic cabins, hotel rooms and suites. There are also multiple lodging options and restaurants in the nearby city of Springdale.
If you like exploring national parks, Utah is the perfect destination as the state is home to five national parks. While they are all beautiful, Zion is considered a favorite by many and definitely one to include in your fall Utah national parks itinerary.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Recommended by Jan of Leisurely Drives
Lake Tahoe is an awesome, deep blue body of water that straddles California and Nevada covering a 70-mile perimeter. It is surrounded by Sierra Nevada mountains. Getting to Lake Tahoe is an easy drive on the I-80 east route from San Francisco and takes about 4 hours.
The best things to do at Lake Tahoe in fall include driving around the lake stopping at various vantage points for photo ops, hiking on the several parks such as Emerald Lake state park and Hope Valley, watching the Kokanee Salmon hatch at Taylor Creek, and going kayaking or canoeing to the Fannette Island on Emerald Bay.
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is during fall due to three reasons: it is least crowded, has the pleasant cool weather rather than the harsh Winter or summer, and has the stunning landscape colors including yellow and orange from the Aspens and Cottonwood dried leaves.
There is no dearth of good restaurants in Lake Tahoe area. Café Fiore is a cozy, romantic Italian restaurant, and Boathouse on the Pier is a popular waterside bar and grill with traditional American cuisine along with lovely lake views. The Beach Retreat & Lodge – a beachfront hotel located in South Lake, and Marriot Grand Residence Club are excellent choices for a weekend stay. Lake Tahoe also has several Airbnb fully equipped cabins and houses for more privacy and fun.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
While fall foliage is a great reason to get out and explore, it’s not the only thing to do in the fall. Cities that are popular summer destinations are much less crowded in the fall. Las Vegas loses it’s summer hear and tourist traffic, making it a great fall destination in the United States!
Not only are flights and accommodation much cheaper in the fall months, but there are also a number of events that are ONLY held during the fall. Planet Hollywood hosts its Zombie Burlesque (talk about a unique experience), Downtown Las Vegas hosts an annual Oktoberfest, and the Food and Wine Experience happens at the MGM resorts. The Strip cools off from the summer heat and it’s much easier to walk around to spot the Bellagio fountains or take a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Recommended by Sarah of You Found Sarah
Fall is the best time to visit one of the United States’ least visited — and most underrated — National Parks. In fact, you’re likely to have all of Great Basin’s 77,000 acres to yourself and maybe a handful of other outdoor enthusiasts!
In late September you’ll find cool, crisp air and aspens displaying their fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves. Great Basin is known for being home to Nevada’s second tallest mountain (Wheeler Peak – 13,064 feet), the oldest living trees on earth, brilliant blue alpine lakes, limestone caverns, and one of the darkest skies in the lower 48! To enjoy the fall leaves, take the Park’s scenic drive that winds its way up to 10,000 feet and head off on the Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes trail (5.3 miles loop/moderate).
Bundle up come nighttime and witness what some scientists are calling an endangered resource. ‘Half the park is after dark’ is a popular saying at Great Basin and references the dazzling display of thousands of stars, the Milky Way, planets, and meteors. Where to Stay: The campgrounds in Great Basin have been designed to enhance stargazing; each has enough room for telescopes and tripods. For non-campers, check out the Stargazer Inn in Baker, Nevada.
Where to Eat: For a delicious meal with a chef-driven, creative menu head to Kerauac’s. While you’re there, grab one of Kerauac’s craft cocktails or choose from a large selection of Nevada beer or a glass of wine from one of the best wine lists in the state.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures
Believe it or not the little college town of Flagstaff, Arizona is a great fall destination in the U.S. The highlight of fall in Flagstaff is the amazing foliage and especially the aspens that turn bright yellow come October.
There are a couple places to see the aspens, namely Lockett Meadow and Arizona Snowbowl. Take a drive to either location and you’ll find lots of trails to explore. Other than the foliage, don’t miss the incredible stargazing in Flagstaff. Visit Lowell Observatory for a special viewing experience and learn about the discovery of Pluto, which happened here.
The best places to eat in Flagstaff are Lumberyard, which has classic American fare and their own craft brews. Also try the incredible pesto pizza from NiMarco’s Pizza and specialty burgers and shakes from Mama Burger. There are a few to places to stay in Flagstaff including Drury Inn & Suites on the Northern Arizona University campus or Hampton Inn & Suites, which is also close to campus but farther from downtown so it’s less crowded.
Alternatively, stay in a unique accommodation like a yurt in the mountains at Nordic Village. Overall, you won’t want to miss the spectacular color change in fall in Flagstaff, Arizona!
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
An amazing place to visit in the fall is Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. While Teton NP is beautiful regardless of the season, fall is something special. As the temperatures start to decrease, so are the crowds.
You will have magnificent views of the Teton Range (almost) to yourself. What’s more, you can see the pronghorn migration to the south and listen for elks bugling when trying to find a mate. Of course, there are plenty of fall colors to admire as the aspen trees take on their vibrant yellow fall colors.
With colder temperatures you can still go camping, just make sure to come prepared and pack plenty of layers and a warm sleeping bag. Alternatively, book yourself a stay at the amazing Jackson Lake Lodge. Even if you don’t stay here (it comes with a price tag, grab a coffee or lunch here just for the view).
Note that most facilities close at the end of September. You can still visit the park, just stay at nearby Jackson Hole and bring your own food during the day.
Oregon
Recommended by Ruma of The Holiday Story
Oregon is a diverse state in the pacific northwest in the western America. The place has volcanoes, water bodies, dense evergreen and mixed forests, deserts and shrublands. The state’s highest point is Mount Hood, and deepest lake is Crater Lake. The rare single largest organism, “Armillaria ostoyae”, is only found here.
The best time to visit Oregon is during the fall. The weather is mesmerizing because of the warmer air from the inland valleys. Rainfall towards the end of the season makes the place beautiful. The fall colors change the scenery of Oregon, and the golden leaves shine in the Autumn breeze.
The season is perfect for riding a bike on the beach. You can take a trip to Fort Stevens State Park and explore the coastline near the Columbia River. Enjoy a walk along Cannon beach with the towering Haystack rock. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival and the Muttzanita Dog Festival are the events organized in this season. It’s the best time to go on a road trip.
Pacific Reef Hotel, The Ocean Lodge and The Inn at Arch Rock are the best hotels to stay in Oregon. Fine dining places serving American food are Nebbiolo Restaurant and Wine Bar, and Ranee’s on Main.
San Francisco, California
Recommended by Haley of Haley Blackall
Fog City, a fitting nickname for San Francisco due to the dense fog the city can experience almost year-round. But, when September arrives, the sunshine breaks the sky and crowds disperse, making San Francisco one of the best Fall destinations in the United States.
The autumn months of September through November are chock full of things to do in the bay area. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride over the Golden Gate bridge to the small community of Sausilito. Enjoy an ice cream cone and visit the quaint boutique shops. Or, grab a few picnic ingredients from the lively Ferry Building market and head up to Dolores Park with your blanket to enjoy the stunning views.
October also brings Fleet Week to San Francisco, with multiple events honoring naval and marine US forces. Find a good spot along the shoreline and marvel at the Blue Angels jets performing a fully choreographed airshow. Next, munch away at the SF Street Food Festival, which showcases the top chefs from around the city.
Stay at the charming Noe’s Nest Bed and Breakfast or the aesthetically pleasing upscale Proper Hotel. Watch a movie on the big screen while enjoying dinner at the Foreign Cinema, or twirl pasta at the San Francisco institution, Cotogna.
Big Sur, California
Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector
Magnificent Big Sur is regarded as ‘the world’s most spectacular meetings of land and ocean’. The peak season for visiting Big Sur is from April to October. Summers in Big Sur are usually crowded and can be foggy. So, the best season for enjoying Big Sur at its best is fall. Especially great for visiting Big Sur are the months of September and October for pleasant temperatures and lesser crowds.
Glorious 90-mile long Big Sur covers some of the world’s loveliest nature reserves and sanctuaries, most fantastic redwood forests, the most secluded beaches, loveliest bays, the most amazing hot springs, the greatest hiking and biking trails, and most incredible wildlife. So, if you are a nature lover who’s wondering what to do in Big Sur, chill out. There are so many marvelous things to do in Big Sur: from hiking incredible Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, watching the sea wildlife in Garrapata State Park, admiring the wilderness of Limekiln State Park, exploring the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park trails, to appreciating secluded beaches of pristine Andrew Molera State Park, and relaxing on Pfeiffer Beach in the sunset. Besides that, taking photos of the spectacular Bixby Bridge and legendary McWay Fall, visiting historic Point Sur Lighthouse, and touring the amazing Hearst Castle in San Simeon are some of the must-do activities in Big Sur.
After exploring out-of-this-world Big Sur nature, head to the iconic cliff-top Nepenthe restaurant for dining with the most spectacular views of the Big Sur coast and the Pacific Ocean. If you want to treat yourself to a memorable stay, luxury Ventana Big Sur resort offers some of the most amazing beachfront suits in the US. But if you prefer something more snuggly, choose one of the fantastic Big Sur rental cabins or try glamping in Big Sur! And remember, the best season for visiting Big Sur is fall!
Yosemite National Park, California
Recommended by Olivia of Girl With Blue Sails
Yosemite National Park in California is one of the best fall destinations in the United States. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the landscape of this park contains a valley surrounded by mountains. During fall, the leaves turn vibrant orange and yellow tones and the weather gets crisp and cool.
One of the most popular things to do in Yosemite in the fall is to head to Cook’s Meadow. In this location, visitors can see Yosemite in all its fall glory. Walk down the boardwalk, surrounded by a meadow and pine trees, and get some views of the iconic Half Dome mountain. Insider tip: Head to this location at sunset.
Another wonderful thing to do in Yosemite in the fall is to head to is to head up to Glacier Point. This amazing viewpoint has amazing views of the valley below from an elevation of 7,214 feet. Visitors can take the park shuttle or hike if preferred.
The most classic place to stay is Yosemite Lodge and located nearby is one of the most recommended restaurants, Degnan’s Deli, serving fresh sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Yosemite is beautiful all year round, but for some amazing fall magic, be sure to head to this park in the fall.
Eastern Sierras, California
Recommended by Carol of California Crossings
California’s Eastern Sierras is one of the best (and least known) US places to visit in the fall. The west side of the Sierras boasts California’s famous national parks like Yosemite and Sequoia, but the eastern side of the mountains provides a very different alpine experience.
The steep mountains fall down to a spare desert valley floor. Cushioning that fall is the Inyo National Forest, which has 1.9 million acres of wilderness, mountains and trees. And there are enough aspens and firs in that forest to light up the whole of the eastern Sierras with fall color.
You can see the colors by taking a slow drive down the Highway 395 corridor between Bridgeport and Lone Pine. It’s only 147 miles, but you can easily take 3-5 days by popping up the many side canyons. We recommend driving McGee Creek Canyon, Rock Creek Canyon and then hiking Convict Lake to see some stunning fall color.
You can base yourself in nearby Bishop, which is in the dead center of the action. There is a lot of nearby camping, but if you want a bed, try the Creekside Inn. Don’t miss a stop at Schaat’s Bakkery which is the best European bakery this side of Atlantic and check out Mountain Rambler Brewery for some adult beverages and burgers.
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