Our Favorite Destinations for Epic Fall Foliage

September 17, 2026 - Vacations - by Chantelle Ritzert

As the summer heat turns to autumnal breezes, many travelers plan fall getaways around the magical fall foliage that spreads color throughout the US. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for last-minute travel deals, we’ve collected some of our top destinations for the best and brightest colors of autumn.

Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Highlights

The US Northeast and Mid-Atlantic is one of the best places to see brilliant fall foliage. But that’s not all this region has to offer. Northeast travel also includes breathtaking mountain views, glacial lakes, and stunning waterfalls that make a fall trip well worth your while.

White Mountains, NH

The New Hampshire White Mountains offer spectacular views through winding mountain passes. Between the famous Kancamagus Highway running through this range plus miles of beautiful autumnal maple leaves, this makes for a great place to start a Northeast fall foliage road trip.

Adirondacks, NY

This six-million-square-mile mountain range turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold from late September into early October. It’s one of the must-see destinations for any fall foliage trip.

Pocono Mountains, PA

The Poconos are one of the best-kept secrets of fall in the Northeast. Featuring dramatic ridge views, glacial lakes, and waterfall trails, these mountains are often less crowded than northern New England, but just as magical. This means you can often find good last-minute travel deals here, as well.

Editors Pick: our best Northeast hotel deals

Southern & Midwest Favorites

Though not as well-known for autumnal colors as the Northeast, the South and Midwest have their share of beautiful fall sights and colors, too.

Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC

Starting in mid-October, the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina deliver bold color changes that last all the way through November. The annual color change starts at the highest points in the ridge and travels down the mountainsides for a truly magical view.

Blue Ridge Parkway, VA/NC

This 469-mile scenic ridgeline drive is surrounded by beautiful autumnal tones starting in mid-October. With plenty of opportunities for gorgeous hikes and stunning overlooks, this is the hidden gem of Southbound fall road trips.

Door County, WI

The only thing better than the beauty of fall foliage is seeing those vibrant colors contrasting against the beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan. As you drive through the area catching those beautiful lakeside views, look out for roadside farm stands offering a variety of local produce, jams, and even honey.

Editors Pick: Southern U.S. hotel deals and our favorite Midwest hotels

Western & Mountain Standouts

Fall in the Western and Mountain regions offers a unique experience because of the unique combination of trees you won’t find elsewhere in the US.

Colorado Rockies (Aspen/Maroon Bells)

The Rocky Mountains transform into a sea of gold every September as abundant Quaking Aspen trees put on their fall colors. Aspen, CO, named for these beautiful trees, is one of the best places to view the transformation alongside mountain views and a bustling cultural center.

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

Lake Tahoe, straddling the border between California and Nevada, offers stunning contrast between gold Aspens, red and orange Cottonwoods and Willows, unchanging Evergreens, and the brilliant blue lake waters.

Pacific Northwest (Columbia River Gorge, OR/WA)

If you’re all about moody fall vibes, your autumnal road trip must include a visit to the Pacific Northwest. In addition to being the supposed home of Sasquatch (a.k.a, Bigfoot), the PNW is home to a brilliant show of fall colors contrasted against the region’s iconic evergreens.

Editors Pick: top hotel deals in the Western U.S.