15 Prettiest States in the Fall

Where to go: Great Smoky Mountains

Fog has a way of making fall seem even more magical. If you agree, then the Great Smoky Mountains are the place to go. They were named for their fog, and they only get prettier in the fall!

Where to go: Walden Pond

Walden Pond is a lake that's famous for being formed by retreating glaciers approximately 12,000 years ago. Visitors can enjoy swimming and boating. 

Where to go: Aspen

Colorado is one of those places that’s a great vacation choice year-round. The state really shines in the fall, though. It’s a serene retreat before all the spring skiers come. Its best fall spot? Aspen. The city is covered in beautiful yellow trees.

Where to go: Olallie Creek

There are few spots you’ll get that perfect mix of warm autumn colors and dark pine green. If you go, don’t forget your camera.

Where to go: Portsmouth

If you like quiet, quaint towns, go to New Hampshire in the fall. The whole state is peaceful, and fall is definitely the most peaceful season. If you swing through Portsmouth, grab a pastry and go for a walk. It’s the best place to do so.

Where to go: Rio Grande

Of course, we can't forget about the Rio Grande. During the summer, it's beautiful, but during the fall? It's simply breathtaking. It's one of the most impressive sights in the United States. 

Where to go: Holy Hill

No, you don’t have to be religious to visit Holy Hill — you just have to own a camera! It’s a gorgeous shrine in Milwaukee that hasn’t become a cliché photo spot. It’s just this quaint, perfect place.

Where to go: Silver Falls State Park

The weather during the fall is also perfect for hiking, so make sure to stop by a state park while you're out!

Where to go: Cathedral Ledge State Park

Cathedral Ledge is the ideal place for those that want a breath of fresh air while away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a short walk and an easy trek for most.  

Where to go: Little Buffalo State Park

Want to get away from the city? Try one of Pennsylvania's many state parks. Little Buffalo State Park is a fantastic choice, and a place where you can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and swimming. 

Where to go: Letchworth State Park

New York is also a lot bigger than most people think; there are even state parks! Letchworth is one of the most beautiful during the fall. We suggest the Great Bend Overlook at the park. 

Where to go: Boston

Boston, of course! Boston has tons of stuff to do, and all the colors make for even better photos. Whether it's strolling down historic roads or sitting on a bench in a park, you can't go wrong. 

Where to go: Tunnel of Trees, Ludington

For a nice little iconic drive, go through the "Tunnel  of Trees." It's 16 miles through autumn foliage that will make your jaw drop. It's also a part of the M-119, which is honestly worth driving through as well. 

Where to go: Taos

When you think of cool fall breezes, New Mexico probably isn’t the first place you think of, but if you head to Taos this fall, you won’t regret it. The place just feels more open than most other fall cities. The mountains surrounding the city still give you room to breathe while letting you have great views of the colorful leaves.

Where to go: Blue Ridge Parkway

If you’re in the Virginia area this fall, you won’t be disappointed. The whole state is gorgeous this time of year. If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy the sights and the weather, take a drive down Blue Ridge Parkway. There are scenic overlooks all down the road that will take your breath away.

Where to go: Million Dollar Highway

For those that only have time to drive through before heading to another state, take the Million Dollar Highway. During the fall, it has the most stunning yellows and greens. Just make sure to keep your eyes on the road!

Where to go: Grant Park

Grant Park is another option in South Milwaukee. It's a lakefront park with a beach, an 18-hole golf course, and hiking trails for all ages. 

Where to go: Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is one of the most beautiful and underrated places in the U.S. It’s a quiet corner of the nation that’s lucky enough to touch three Great Lakes. It's next to impossible to find a bad view there!

Where to go: Ozark National Forest

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably never stopped and thought, “Gee, I should go to Arkansas,” but if you’re looking for beautiful autumn landscapes, there’s no better place than the Natural State.

Where to go: Sangre de Cristo Mountains

To get away from it all and cut out a little piece of your own paradise, try the mountains. These yellow hues are unforgettable. 

Where to go: Somesville

Somesville is another fantastic option. The little village is wonderfully welcome, and the seafood is unbelievable. Of course, dining is always accompanied by a water-front view. 

Where to go: Adirondack Mountains

There are so many beautiful fall places in New York that it’s hard to recommend just one spot. Both the Adirondack and the Catskills Mountains are fantastic places to visit.

Where to go: Cape Cod

If you don’t know where to go, Cape Cod is a safe bet. Its beaches are some of the best in the nation, and yes, they are still beautiful in the fall. Everything on the Cape is picture-perfect, especially in the fall.

Where to go: Crawford Notch State Park

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, try Crawford Notch State Park. There's even a train ride that everyone can enjoy!

Where to go: Rock City

Rock City is one of the best things to do in Tennessee. It's 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga and has sights like Lover's Leap. This rock gets its name from the Cherokee legend of two young lovers, one who couldn't live without the other. 

Where to go: Bar Harbor

New England is the perfect place for fall, and Maine showcases the region’s autumn beauty perfectly. The whole state is great, but Bar Harbor is one of the best places to visit in the fall. It sits comfortably on Frenchman Bay. Behind it is the beautiful Acadia National Park. It’s the type of place you can fall in love with.

Where to go: Whitaker Point

Arkansas isn't a densely populated state, and there are tons of parks and peaks to visit. This means you could have a picknick with family without being disturbed!

Where to go: Shenandoah National Park

This fall wonderland offers tons to do. It extends along the Blue Ridge mountains, and even includes a section of the Appalachian Trail. You can camp there, get a cabin, or just visit for the day to enjoy the sighs. 

Where to go: Billy Goat Trail

After you're done with the corn mazes, go on a hike! Billy Goat Trail is a waterfront trail that has tons of trees with orange, yellow, green, and red foliage (yes, the trees have all the colors). 

Where to go: Columbia River Gorge

Fall in Oregon is unique. Sure, everything’s a little wetter over there.

Where to go: Walla Walla Vinters

Say what? Yes, this is a real place! If you love wine (or just beautiful sights), Walla Walla Vintners is on Estate Merlot and has vineyards where you can actually try the wine.

Where to go: Georgetown Loop Railroad

When the trees start changing, make sure to stop by Georgetown Loop Railroad. The aspen trees turn from green to gold, and seeing an old locomotive makes for a unique experience. 

Where to go: Umsaskis Lake

If you love to fish or looking at wildlife, Umsaskis Lake is your best bet. It's an absolute treasure. Even though it's petite, the fishing is second to none. 

Where to go: Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva actually won "Best City to Visit" from Experience Wisconsin's "Best of 2019 Reader's Choice Survey," and for good reason. It's a resort city with tons of things to do whether you love shopping or dining by candlelight at a fancy restaurant. Of course, all while enjoying the amazing views of autumn. 

Where to go: Maybury State Park

We also suggest Maybury State Park. It's a gentle terrain, so it's perfect for anyone with kiddos. Not to mention, it's close to a metropolitan area so get a quick bite to eat or experience some shopping!

Where to go: Monticello

Virginia has a plethora of historic sights, including Monticello. This was home to Thomas Jefferson, and many people consider this sight to be one of the most memorable times of their lives. 

Where to go: Patapsco Valley State Park

Finally, stop by Patapsco Valley State Park. This state park has waterfalls, wildlife, and it's pretty dang close to Baltimore. You can get to the city via a short 13-mile drive. 

Where to go: Poconos Mountains

If you love fall, go to the Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania. We promise they love fall even more than you do. They’ve got just about every sort of ride, tour, and festivals that come with the season.

Where to go: Seattle

If you live in the Western half of the U.S., give Washington a visit this fall. Seattle has tons of things to do, including an Argosy Cruise boat ride, Woodland Park Zoo, Chihuly Gardens, and the Space Needle Ride where you can see the view from the top. 

Where to go: Cherohala Skyway 

Cherohala Skyway winds up and over 5,400-foot mountains through Tennessee and North Carolina. We're not saying you'll want to drive it all, but we're betting once you start, you won't want to stop. 

Where to go: Columbia Gorge

Washington has more color variety than any other state thanks to its mountains, lakes, and cities. If you want a little less city and a little more nature, go to Columbia Gorge. You’ll be blown away by how red their leaves get and see waterfalls that are awe-inspiring. 

Where to go: Petit Jean

One of the places you have to stop by is Petit Jean. There are tons of trails for all age groups, including an insane waterfall that looks even better after a heavy rain. 

Where to go: Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the best towns America has to offer. It's full of rich history, great food, and sights that you'll never forget. 

Where to go: Central Park

If you’re a city person, you'll find plenty of great views in Central Park. You'll be one step away from the hottest tourist spots while getting a glance of nature. 

Where to go: Baltimore

There are a million great things to do in Maryland in the fall, but one thing tops the list: corn mazes. Corn mazes are always fun, but Maryland raises the bar. They do intricate designs that include everything from Curious George and Snoopy to the Baltimore Ravens. Seriously, go to Maryland and have a great time in one of their corn mazes.