Crisp air, golden leaves, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin spice everything — fall is arguably the most magical time of year to explore the U.S.
Across the country, destinations come alive with fiery foliage, festive harvest events, and perfect weather — not too hot, not too cold. It’s also one of the best times to travel: smaller crowds, better prices, and weekend-friendly trips that don’t require burning your PTO.
From mountain drives to small-town festivals, here are 10 of the best fall weekend getaways in America that deliver serious autumn charm.
1. The White Mountains, New Hampshire
For a quintessential New England fall getaway, head north to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This area dazzles every autumn with breathtaking foliage, charming small towns, and family-friendly attractions like Story Land and Santa’s Village.
The scenic Kancamagus Highway is one of the best fall drives in America, but you can also admire the views from Franconia Notch State Park, White Mountain National Forest, or even from above via the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
For a unique experience, hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad or Mount Washington Cog Railway to soak in the colors by train. And while ski season hasn’t started yet, resorts like Loon Mountain and Cranmore offer fall activities such as bike parks, gondola rides, and hiking trails to hidden waterfalls like Arethusa Falls.
2. The Great Rivers and Routes Region, Illinois
Located in southwest Illinois, the Great Rivers and Routes Region is where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers meet — and fall is the perfect time to explore it.
Take a scenic drive along Route 66 or the Great River Road, or join a guided Fall Foliage and History Tour. Outdoor lovers can hike through Pere Marquette State Park or Beaver Dam State Park, while thrill-seekers should try the Aerie’s Resort Alpine Coaster for sweeping views.
Families can get lost (literally) in the Great Godfrey Maze, illuminated by flashlight on weekends, or explore haunted Alton — often dubbed one of the most haunted small towns in America.
3. Buellton, California
Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley north of Santa Barbara, Buellton offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Known for its pinot noir and chardonnay wines, this region pairs scenic vineyards with fun, family-friendly attractions.
Kids will love Highline Adventures, home to California’s longest and fastest zip line, and animal lovers can feed ostriches and emus at Ostrichland USA.
Take a family horseback ride along the Santa Ynez River, admire fall hues at the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, or stroll to Nojoqui Falls Park to see the waterfall after a short hike.
4. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you. In the fall, Hersheypark transforms into a Halloween wonderland with events like the Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, the spooky Creatures of the Night at ZooAmerica, and the five haunted houses of Dark Nights.
At Hershey’s Chocolate World, families can trick-or-treat through the world’s largest candy store, meet Hershey characters, and sample seasonal treats.
Beyond the chocolatey fun, enjoy the fall colors at Hershey Gardens or Wildwood Park, hike the Hershey Harrisburg Adventure Trail, or visit Patchwork Pumpkin Farm for hayrides and autumn activities.
5. Hamilton County, Indiana
Just outside Indianapolis, Hamilton County is an ideal family fall getaway. The Monon Trail — a 20-mile paved path — is perfect for biking, and you can rent bikes along the route.
At Midtown Plaza in Carmel, kids can play ping-pong, enjoy public art, or relax on swings between cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the Carmel Arts & Design District, where a self-guided scavenger hunt features sculptures by J. Seward Johnson Jr.
Climb aboard the Nickel Plate Express for vintage fall foliage train rides, visit Conner Prairie for its Headless Horseman Festival, or explore Flat Fork Creek Park for autumn hikes. Reward yourself afterward with dessert at The Cake Bake Shop or Graeter’s Ice Cream.
6. Delaware County, New York
Known as the Great Western Catskills, Delaware County is a hidden gem for fall travelers. Drive the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, bike the Catskill Scenic Trail, or enjoy panoramic mountain views on foot.
Families can go horseback riding at Skyhold Ranch, or learn fly-fishing from local guides in the birthplace of the sport.
For a true farm-to-table experience, visit Maplewood Farm & Orchard or Echo Orchard & Farm for apple picking, hayrides, and homemade jams. In towns like Hobart, Walton, and Fleischmanns, explore farmers’ markets, local eateries, and — in Hobart’s case — seven charming independent bookstores.
7. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Fall is one of the best times to visit Virginia Beach — fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and plenty of activities beyond swimming.
Go leaf-peeping or wildlife spotting at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or First Landing State Park, where you might even catch a glimpse of bioluminescent waters.
Families can climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse, play at Hunt Club Farm, or visit Flanagan Farm for hayrides and pumpkin patches. For adventure, check out the Owl Creek Landing’s Nautilus Tower — the tallest stainless-steel spiral slide in the U.S. — or the ropes course at The Adventure Park near the Virginia Aquarium.
8. Portland, Maine
With its cobblestone streets, working harbor, and crisp sea air, Portland, Maine, is one of the most charming coastal getaways in fall.
Stroll the Old Port District, filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Visit the Portland Head Light for postcard-perfect views of fall colors meeting the ocean, then explore Fort Williams Park and its scenic trails.
At the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, kids will love the Alfond Children’s Garden, inspired by Maine authors like E.B. White (Charlotte’s Web) and Robert McCloskey (Blueberries for Sal).
Don’t miss local favorites like The Holy Donut’s apple-cinnamon potato donuts or Eighty8 Donuts’ bite-sized sampler box. Round out your trip with a stop in Freeport for outlet shopping at L.L. Bean’s flagship store.
9. Branson, Missouri
Branson isn’t just for live shows — fall turns this Ozark Mountain town into a colorful masterpiece. Take a scenic drive along Highway 165, ride the Branson Scenic Railway, or hike through the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area.
Enjoy the Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City, or take the kids to Shepherd’s PumpkinFest for carnival fun.
Nature lovers can explore Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, spanning over 10,000 acres, while Top of the Rock offers unbeatable views and golf carts for exploring trails and caves.
10. Salt Lake City, Utah
For those craving mountain views with a city vibe, Salt Lake City offers the best of both worlds. The Wasatch Mountains surrounding the city glow with fiery fall foliage in October.
Stroll through Memory Grove Park, bike City Creek Canyon, or visit Liberty Park for paddle boating and birdwatching at the Tracy Aviary, home to more than 300 bird species.
Grab a Salt Lake Explorer Pass for discounted access to attractions like Red Butte Garden, Hogle Zoo, and This Is the Place Heritage Park. For fall fun, don’t miss Snowbird’s Oktoberfest or haunted attractions like Fear Factory and Grimm Ghost Tours.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing fall colors, pumpkin spice, or cozy small-town vibes, these 10 destinations offer the perfect weekend escape. From the fiery peaks of New Hampshire to the beaches of Virginia, autumn’s beauty is waiting — just pack your camera, your favorite sweater, and maybe a thermos of cider.