We’re doing our best to embrace the autumnal decor, pumpkin bread, and all the fall things. But with our team of writers spread across Austin and Los Angeles — two destinations where the weather hasn’t quite gotten the cool down memo — we’ve been itching to hit the road and experience a place where the seasons have actually changed. And that’s exactly where the following four fall getaway destinations come in.
Each offers its own unique slice of the season – from vibrant fall foliage to the perfect excuse to curl up with a cozy glass of red wine on a chilly night.
Since it can be tough to get away during this time between summer and the holiday season, each of these destinations is perfect for a long weekend — or a longer stay if you can make it happen. So bust out your boots and pack your bags.
Napa Valley
Napa doesn’t really have an off-season, but there is something particularly magical about the valley during the fall. The air is just crisp enough to be able to fully enjoy a day packed with vineyard tours (and if you’re lucky, to catch a late-season crush), and you can expect to enjoy plenty of cozy foggy mornings. We’d suggest checking into Calistoga Valley Ranch if you’re looking for a serious treat — and making your reservation for The French Laundry now.
Boston & The Berkshires
The cities all along the East Coast come into their own this time of year, so you can’t go wrong planning a trip to NYC, Washington, D.C., or Philly. That said, Boston is at the top of our list this year thanks to its mix of classic fall foliage and world-class museums. If you have a couple of extra days, we’d suggest making your way out to the Berkshires as well for all of the fall-in-the-country fun (and some seriously great antiquing).
image via smoky mountain national park
Great Smoky Mountains
If you’re looking to squeeze in a bit more outdoor adventure before winter hits, the Great Smoky Mountains is the place to go. The national park spans both Tennessee and North Carolina, and is full of scenic trails to hike and winding roads where you’re sure to spot deer, elk, and black bears. We’d suggest checking in to Blackberry Farm to counter all of that activity with some serious R&R (and drool-worthy farm-to-table food).
Vancouver
Not all of us will be able to make it out to the east coast for a leaf peeping adventure, but luckily, the Pacific Northwest offers up some seriously good fall getaway destinations. You can’t go wrong with a weekend in Vancouver, where it is still warm enough to enjoy some time on the waterfront or wandering through Stanley Park in between window shopping in Yaletown and bar hopping in Gastown.
