12 Favorite Towns for a Fall Foliage Trip
How many can you check off your bucket list?
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No fall would be complete without pumpkin picking, apple treats, cozy sweaters, and, of course, gorgeous foliage. Mother Nature puts on a breathtaking autumnal show year after year, which is why so many rightfully call fall their favorite season. But if you’re itching to take your leaf-peeping hobby beyond your neighborhood this year—or just want the perfect seasonal getaway—you definitely need to plan a road trip to one of these beautiful small towns in the United States, known for their autumnal displays and views.
From the California coast to New England and Vermont, these are the absolute best fall towns to travel to this leaf-peeping season. And for even more autumn enjoyment, check out our favorite must-visit fall festivals.
Find even more fall fun right this way:
Carroll County, New Hampshire
Nestled between the scenic White Mountain National Forest and the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, this rural region of the Granite State is rich in history and offers sweeping autumnal views. Moulton Farm (pictured) welcomes the season with a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and fresh apple pies from the farm bakery. The changing colors of Mt. Washington Valley, meanwhile, are best viewed aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Hermann, Missouri
The jewel of the Missouri Rhineland willkommens fall visitors with wineries, wurst hauses, and dozens of other delightful ways to enjoy its German heritage. Take note: Train travel is an always-enjoyable way to view fall foliage. Book a seat on Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner, and you’ll rumble right into town along the water.
RELATED: Why Hermann is the Perfect Spot for a Fall Girls' Trip
Andes, New York
The rolling hills of a former dairy community in the Catskills of New York are now home to a bounty of makers and creators—and plenty of opportunities for top-notch antiquing. Take in autumn color along the four-mile Andes Rail Trail, or hike to the fire tower atop nearby Mt. Utsayantha.
RELATED: Andes is the Small Town That Goes Big on Antiquing and Farm-to-Table Food
Galena, Illinois
From Galena Oktoberfest to tours of its historic homes, this charming Midwest town offers several season-specific events that your whole family will love. Galena also sits in America’s Driftless Area, which breaks from stereotypical Midwestern flatness with forested ridges and steep valleys. Take it all in at the 200-acre Horseshoe Mound Preserve, which is dotted with viewing scopes, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks spanning three states.
Lambertville, New Jersey
This former factory town, also known as The Antiques Capital of New Jersey, is now a flourishing country outpost for antiques and the arts—and a postcard-perfect home base for small-town hopping along the Delaware River. The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail is a picturesque spot for leisurely strolls.
Sperryville, Virginia
Nestled at the entrance of Shenandoah National Park, this tiny Rappahannock County village offers prime leaf-peepin’ alongside a bounty of eateries, drinkeries, and friendly locals.
RELATED: 16 Ways to Spend the Perfect Fall Day in Sperryville
Stowe, Vermont
In this former Green Mountain farming community turned year-round vacation destination, the hills are alive with the colors (and flavors!) of the fall season. (Case in point: the von Trapp family who inspired The Sound of Music settled in Stowe in the 1940s and still runs the in-town Trapp Family Lodge!) Though there’s no shortage of ways to take in the town’s awe-inducing autumn splendor, two stand out: a winding drive along Smugglers Notch, or a trip above the trees of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, on the
Stowe Gondola SkyRide.
RELATED: Why Stowe Should Be at the Top of Your Fall Travel List
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Come fall, there’s nothing quite like The Berkshires. Nestled along the western edge of Massachusetts, Berkshire County—and the 30(!) small towns within its midst—shine bright each autumn with famous estates, farm-to-table fare, and ample foliage. In fact, Hoosac Valley Train Rides offers one-hour fall foliage rides between the Northern Berkshires Mountains in carefully restored mid-century railcars.
Saranac Lake, New York
The region is already known for its beautiful fall colors, but this scenic village in the Adirondacks also offers miles of lakes, mountains, and hiking trails to enhance your leaf-peeping experience.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Prepare to take a step back in time once you book a trip to this Historic National Park, which sits between the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Calistoga, California
Situated in Napa County, this beautiful town offers vineyards covered in fall foliage. Leaf peeping while sipping on wine—what could be better?
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
To get a glimpse at golden leaves along the Great Smoky Mountains, time your trip from October to the beginning of November. And if you're looking for fall colors in their full glory, a visit to Cades Cove is in order.
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