We’re heading into mid-September, but some of us are still mourning the loss of hot girl summer (me included); however, an even better time is on the horizon, one with balanced temperatures, limited-edition product launches, holidays, and classic must-watch films.
Autumn is rapidly approaching, and with that comes the highly anticipated fall foliage. If you’re blessed to live in New York, or anywhere else with seasonal transition, then you understand the excitement that surrounds this yearly phenomenon; and generally, you have an idea of the best places to see changing leaves through years of experience. But, many unfortunately do not, which is largely due to geographic location. Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up the best places to see Fall foliage and do Fall-sy things, so you’re not in the loop, but also can experience the magic for yourself.
Bar Harbor is the place to be this season. This particular hot-spot destination is teeming with colorful scenic views, fall activities, and historic sites to explore, all of which make for perfect feed-worthy Instagrams (we all know you’re thirsty for the likes). Some coveted activities include Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor Whale Watch, Valley Cove cliffs, and tons more. If you’re limited on time, I recommend hitting up Acadia National Park over other options (though they’re all pretty great). The first national park east of the Mississippi River, Acadia National Park has a rich history, beautiful views, and diverse geography.
The Catskills are beautiful all four seasons; however, this well-hyped landscape becomes extra stunning and colorful when Fall rolls around. You won’t regret taking a scenic drive up here and exploring everything this region has to offer, from views to activities and everything in between. If you have a pulse (aka, you enjoy a good time), then I recommend hitting up this year’s Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest. You won’t leave disappointed.
If you’re not looking to go up north beyond New York, fear not: Huntington, located in Long Island NY, is the place to be for gorgeous foliage, awe-inspiring nature, so on and so forth. The area has garnered national and local headlines as an ideal destination for the season, and with sound reason. During your visit, you’ll be greeted by brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, along with activities for all ages. If you’re looking for more than just views, head over to The Long Island Fall Festival at Heckscher Park, where you can find packs of families enjoying carnival games, a fresh farmer’s market, old-time rides, and delicious homemade treats. This year, the festival will be held on the weekend of October 11th.
Referred to Fall’s “Color Capital,” this rustic area is ideal for hiking the trails and taking scenic rides with the music blasting. What’s great about Stowe, Vermont is, it doesn’t dull its colors by the time October arrives; it is consistently beautiful from start to finish, living up to its reputation and never leaving a sour taste. In my opinion, the best places to see the foliage are, Stowe Recreation Path, Mount Mansfield, Smugglers Notch State Park, or Sterling Falls Gorge.
Marylan’s Eastern Shore is not just great for lush nature: it’s an incredible place for all the seafood mavens and activity doers, given its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Delmarva Peninsula. After you take a stroll around stunning Elks Neck State Park, you can chow down on plenty of crabs and a long list of other insta-worthy meals. Or, you can explore the beach towns for shopping, drinks, and more. Sounds like a win-win situation if you ask me.
North Conway caters to both the zen and the adventurous spirits looking for Fall fun. It’s picture-perfect with colorful forests and routes, so get your camera ready and chillax with a good book at a quaint inn; or, if you’re a dare-devil, get ready to go hiking, biking, skiing, and rock climbing — you’ll get to challenge your limits during your stay here. Personally, I recommend visiting Diana’s Baths and the Conway Scenic Railroad, both of which have awesome reviews and views for days.
Western Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills is postcard New England, with stunning routes that offer an explosion of autumn’s greatest colors; however, what helps this hotspot stand out is its unique activities. There’s a bunch of cute antique shops, art galleries, and eateries, along with countless outdoorsy things to do here. So, if you’re looking for a place with more versatility, then Litchfield Hills is for you. You won’t regret it.
If you’re busy during all of September, fear not: The ranging hues of The Berkshires emerge in October when, for other places, things start dying down a bit. The Berkshires is peak nature, with its diverse winding, endless roads, lakes, meadows, farms and mountains that draw visitors from all over in year after year. Curious to see the hype beforehand? A simple two second google search will prove why this place is so special and loved by many.
Thankfully for us, Fall foliage isn’t limited to the Northeast. Take a trip to Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the nation’s most scenic routes that takes you through Southern Virginia into North Carolina, and culminating at The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. If you’re thinking about going on a road trip, go between late September through late October– that’s the perfect time to see all the views.
Last but certainly not least, you must visit (if you can) Michigan’s Upper Peninsula filled with vibrant waterfalls, winding roads, and more. Its peak season is limited though, falling between late September and early October; regardless, the region is sprawling with endless nature and views, making this one of the best places to celebrate the season. I highly recommend taking a road trip throughout this region and bringing your closet friends along for the ride.
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