Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel to one of these fall weekend getaways. In fact, fall is the perfect time to travel! Not only are things more affordable but there are also fewer crowds. That means you can enjoy popular destinations in a more relaxed and serene atmosphere. Plus, the weather is still generally warm, which is great if you want to spend time outdoors.
If you’re ready to embark on an autumnal adventure, then you’re in the right place. We have a list of the best fall weekend getaways to help you enjoy the beauty of this season!
Top Fall Weekend Getaways
Asheville, North Carolina
If you’re pining for that classic fall feeling, Asheville is the place you’ll want to visit. This charming city is the perfect mix of city and nature. With a lively art scene, delicious farm-to-table restaurants, and an award-winning brewery scene, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Plus, you can head over to the Biltmore Estate (pictured above)!
But we can’t talk about Asheville without mentioning the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rent a car and go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’ll be rewarded with stunning valley views that are at their most beautiful in the fall.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Many people consider Martha’s Vineyard to be a summer destination. But come a few weeks later and you’ll discover that it’s actually one of the best fall weekend getaways! The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it easy to explore the many charming villages on the island.
And because fall is harvest season, you can indulge in fresh produce as well as fresh seafood. The weekly farmer’s markets are the best places to see the bounty grown on the islands. There are also some great culinary festivals that you won’t want to miss in the fall, including the Food & Wine Festival and Oyster Festival.
Sedona, Arizona
If you thought the red rock landscape of Sedona couldn’t get more beautiful, then you haven’t visited in the fall. This is one of the most stunning places in Arizona for a weekend getaway. And since the temperatures are much cooler, you can spend time doing tons of fun activities outdoors.
Go go a hike or bike ride through Red Rock State Park. If you’re into rock climbing, Coconino National Forest makes the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure. Or take a drive through Oak Creek Canyon, admiring the changing autumn leaves and layered rock valleys.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of the country’s best skiing destinations. But it also happens to be a beautiful place to visit during the fall. The sight of the color-changing aspen trees against the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
While you’re here, make sure to visit Maroon Bells. As the most photographed spot in the state, it’s a must-see (or must-hike) while you’re in Aspen. Afterward, you can head back into town to enjoy an evening of upscale dining and shopping.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
A short drive south of Portland takes you right into the heart of Oregon’s wine country. Willamette Valley is home to over 700 different wineries, many of which are famous for producing Pinot Noir. September and October mark the start of harvest season, so it’s the ideal time to visit. You’ll be able to enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the golden-hued landscape of the rolling vineyards.
Of course, there are plenty of other experiences to be had besides wine tasting. Go hiking along the nature trails or get a massage at one of the many 5-star inns and resorts.
Palm Springs, California
If you’re still craving that warm weather, Palm Springs makes the perfect weekend getaway in fall. With a desert climate, the temperatures can range anywhere in the 70s and 90s, even if the evenings are a bit chillier. But with weather like that, you can still spend your days by the pool.
It’s also worth renting a car (AARP has discounts on car rentals) so you can visit Joshua Tree National Park. It’s only a one-hour drive, so you can go and be back in time for dinner!
Acadia National Park, Maine
All the way up north in Maine sits one of the country’s most beautiful places to experience fall. Acadia National Park is a paradise of rugged peaks, lush forests, and pristine coastal views. The colors of the park come alive in fall, so it’s also an excellent destination for devoted leaf-peepers.
For the best views, visit the top of Cadillac Mountain. As the highest point on the eastern seaboard, the peak is the first place in the country to see the sunrise. If you don’t mind the early wake-up time, being here for sunrise can be a memorable and magical experience. And since it’s accessible by car, you won’t have to worry about trekking in the dark.
Las Vegas, Nevada
With so much to see and do, Las Vegas is the best getaway for those craving a city trip. There are so many events happening at this time (so don’t expect things to be quiet). But between the live shows, casinos, and world-famous museums, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained during your stay!
And if the strip feels too hectic, you can always retreat into the desert to visit the orchards and pumpkin patches. Many of them are just a short drive away and are guaranteed to give you that cozy fall feeling!
Enjoy Your Getaway
This is just a small list of all the wonderful fall weekend getaways you can book this season. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or dining in the city, traveling is the best way to enjoy the changing of seasons. Looking to plan an extended trip? Why not book a cruise somewhere warm? A week in the Caribbean or Mediterranean can also make your fall more enjoyable!
