Top Fall Destinations in the US
When it comes to selecting the perfect fall destination, the foliage is only part of the allure. At iBestTravel, we are also on the lookout for cozy accommodations, exciting fall-related activities, and a hint of spooky vibes for Halloween enthusiasts.
1. Teton County, WY
Best for Mountain Views
Vibes: Nestled in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, Jackson, and the southern portion of Yellowstone, Teton County presents an unbeatable mountain landscape. Visiting in autumn transforms the scenery into a captivating palette of golds and oranges, with exceptional opportunities for wildlife watching.
Do: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tetons on numerous picturesque trails, or visit Schwabacher Landing to capture stunning photos of the mountain range and spot moose and elk. For panoramic views without the crowds, head up to Yellowstone.
Eat: Jackson and its vicinity offer a culinary adventure. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Nora’s Fish Creek Inn, savor lunch at Snake River Brewing, and conclude your day with dinner at Teton Tiger, where delightful drinks await.
Stay: For a cozy autumn getaway, consider independent cabin rentals found on various platforms or experience a stay at a local dude ranch like Triangle X Ranch.
2. Chattanooga, TN
Best for Culture and Nature
Vibes: Renowned as the Scenic City, Chattanooga boasts a charming historic downtown alongside the Tennessee River, offering beautiful brick buildings and easy access to breathtaking views from the surrounding hills.
Do: Embrace a mix of kitsch at Rock City and Ruby Falls, or spend time absorbing contemporary art at the Hunter Museum. Nature enthusiasts will find a wealth of rock climbing and hiking opportunities nearby, complemented by educational experiences at the Tennessee Aquarium.
Eat: Savor influential flavors at Main Street Meats for delicious sandwiches and enjoy a modern Levantine meal at Calliope with unforgettable dishes like chicken shawarma hummus.
Stay: For an elegant stay, consider the Kinley, which features a speakeasy in the lobby. Alternatively, experience nostalgia at the Hotel Chalet in a train car room.
3. Lake Tahoe, CA
Best for Crowd-Free Landscapes
Vibes: Skip the summer crowds and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe in the fall. Here, you can wander through beautiful aspen groves amidst snow-capped ridges and enjoy the tranquility of the shoulder season.
Do: Hike along the Tahoe Rim Trail, embark on a wine-tasting cruise, or unwind on one of the pristine beaches. For panoramic foliage, venture south to Hope Valley or partake in a scenic trail ride through the Sierra Nevada wilderness.
Eat: On the south shore, indulge in fresh veggie dishes at Freshies, dig into pizza at Base Camp, and sample authentic German cuisine at Himmel House. On the north side, try breakfast at the Old Post Office Cafe or enjoy a steak at Old Range Steakhouse.
Stay: The charming Cedar Glen Lodge and boutique Incline Lodge are ideal options on the north shore, while the Jeffrey Hotel and Coachman Hotel are favored southern spots.
4. New Orleans, LA
Best for Food and Supernatural Encounters
Vibes: New Orleans exudes an electric energy, especially during the autumn months when historic architecture, charming parks, and cooler temperatures create a perfect ambiance for visitors.
Do: Explore iconic sights such as Jackson Square and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, but also delve deeper to discover cultural treasures like the Backstreet Cultural Museum and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.
Eat: With a plethora of delicious options, New Orleans cuisine is legendary. Sample elevated seafood at Peche, savor delicious dishes at Jacques-Imo’s, and explore diverse offerings at St Roch Market.
Stay: Opt for historic hotels like Hotel Monteleone, established in 1886, for a touch of luxury, or stay at the charming Hotel Pontchartrain for a 1940s aesthetic.
5. West Virginia
Best for Scenic Drives
Vibes: This state is home to some of the most scenic driving routes in the U.S., ideal for leaf-peeping. With stunning hills, quirky towns, and comfortable retreats, West Virginia offers ample opportunities to unwind.
Do: Don’t miss the twin towns of Thomas and Davis, where contemporary art galleries abound. Further south, the New River Gorge provides breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Eat: Indulge in tacos at Picnic or enjoy international flavors at ISH Kitchen. In the New River Gorge, visit Cathedral Cafe for a satisfying meal or unwind at the Burrito Bar for live music and delicious food.
Stay: The Billy Motel offers mid-century charm, while the area around the New River Gorge features adventure lodges and cozy retreats, with options like Opossum Creek Retreat.
6. Door County, WI
Best for Total Relaxation
Vibes: Door County is known for its expansive views of Lake Michigan, relaxed beach atmosphere, and friendly towns. The fall colors create an enchanting backdrop for a leisurely getaway.
Do: With over 50 public beaches and numerous parks, opportunities for outdoor exploration abound. Be sure to visit Peninsula State Park and marvel at Whitefish Dunes State Park.
Eat: Enjoy a breakfast burrito at Good Eggs, indulge in pizza at Wild Tomato, or experience a traditional fish boil at the Old Post Office. For dessert, savor a mile-high sundae at Wilson’s.
Stay: Each town in Door County offers diverse accommodations, from family-friendly options like Landmark Resort to charming inns such as White Gull and Hillside Waterfront Hotel.
7. Hocking Hills, OH
Best for Country Charm
Vibes: Just an hour from Columbus, Hocking Hills offers a forested oasis filled with stunning natural beauty, ideal for autumn exploration.
Do: Explore Hocking Hills State Park, where you can witness the vibrant leaves against magnificent rock formations. Trails to Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave are particularly breathtaking.
Eat: Dine at Kindred Spirits at Cedar Falls, renowned for its lodge ambiance and gourmet menu featuring highlights like spicy vegetable focaccia.
Stay: Experience unique accommodations at Magical Earth Retreat with underground hobbit houses, eco-friendly cave houses at Dunlap Hollow, or cozy cottages at Inn at Cedar Falls.
