Cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, pumpkin everything—what’s not to love about fall? It’s something of a Goldilocks time of year in many parts of the U.S., because it’s not too hot, not too cold, and an ideal time to travel.
But it’s also back-to-school time for kids, which makes planning a lengthy fall vacation difficult. The solution? Fall weekend getaways, especially if you can make it a three-day weekend to squeeze in a little extra fun. Three days is more than enough time to pick apples, take a scenic hike, pose for pictures in a pumpkin patch, and do all the other quintessential fall weekend escape activities.
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There are so many great places in the U.S. where you can enjoy just that kind of autumnal experience, including many within driving distance of major metropolitan areas around the country. Of course, you can also use that extra weekend getaway day to hop on a quick flight, which opens up the whole country for a three-day fall weekend. Here are my picks for fall weekend getaways that pack in all the fun and charm of a longer autumn vacation.
1. The White Mountains, New Hampshire
For a classic New England fall getaway, head north to the White Mountains of New Hampshire like I did as a kid. Home to family-favorite amusement parks for kids like Story Land and Santa’s Village, this year-round vacation destination especially shines during the autumn months. Driving the Kancamagus Highway is a well-known way to take in the fall foliage, but you can also view it by foot at spots like Franconia Notch State Park and White Mountain National Forest, from the sky via the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, or by train with a journey aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad or the Mount Washington Cog Railway. (Check the region’s foliage tracker for up-to-the-moment info.)
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Ski season’s not in swing yet, but ski resorts like Cranmore Mountain Resort and Loon Mountain offer fall weekend getaway activities like bike parks and scenic chairlift or gondola rides during the season. The area’s also great for taking in easy-to-walk-to waterfalls like Glen Ellis Falls and Arethusa Falls, and the kids will enjoy venturing around the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves.
Where to stay for fall weekend getaways in the White Mountains
For a luxurious escape with the kids, I always recommend the Omni Mount Washington Resort, which offers year-round family activities in a stunning setting that comes to life with fall colors.
2. The Great Rivers and Routes Region, Illinois
Spanning multiple counties in southwest Illinois, the Great Rivers and Routes Region celebrates three great U.S. rivers (the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois) and famous roadways like Route 66 and Great River Road. So, it’s not surprising that fall is a picture-perfect time to visit the area. You can take in the views while someone else does the driving on a Fall Foliage and History Tour, or just set off on your own family road trip along the historic routes.
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Go for a hike at spots like Pere Marquette and Beaver Dam state parks or opt for more high-speed thrills at the Aerie’s Resort Alpine Coaster. There’s no shortage of U-pick farms and fall festivals in the area, and the Great Godfrey Maze can be navigated by flashlight on Friday and Saturday nights for an extra-spooky experience. If you have older kids, explore the eerie side of Mississippi River town Alton, Illinois, which has been named one of the most haunted small towns in America.
Where to stay in the Great Rivers and Routes Region
Choose your way to stay at Aerie’s Resort, which has guest rooms up on a bluff overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers as well at a location on Main Street in downtown Grafton, Illinois.
3. Buellton, California
Just north of Santa Barbara and about 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean in the Santa Ynez Valley, Buellton has a mild climate that’s well-suited to producing pinot noir and chardonnay wines. And while that might be enough to excite the grownups in the family, the kids will love the fact that the city is home to California’s longest and fastest zip line at Highline Adventures, an adventure park where you can get bird’s-eye views of the area.
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Fall is a great time to visit places like Ostrichland USA, where you can observe and feed the resident emus and ostriches. For more animal fun, head to Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Rides, which has trail rides along the Santa Ynez River for ages eight and up, plus family fun rides for ages six and up and a pony encounter for families with younger kids. Check out the fall colors at the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, then travel a short trail at Nojoqui Falls Park to admire its namesake waterfall.
Where to stay for fall weekend getaways in Buellton
The well-situated Santa Ynez Valley Marriott has rooms and suites with private balconies or patios and amenities like a heated outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center.
4. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Enjoy the sweet side of fall in Hershey, where Hersheypark becomes a hotbed of Halloween fun with fall events including include trick-or-treating along the Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, the Creatures of the Night flashlight tour at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, and five haunted houses at the Dark Nights event. Hershey’s Chocolate World also adds a layer of fall fun with trick-or-treating throughout the world’s largest candy store, character meet-and-greets, and new treats to try.
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But there’s more to enjoy in the area than just chocolate. Fall foliage is on full display at places like Hershey Gardens and Wildwood Park, and the Hershey Harrisburg Adventure Trail is a go-to spot for hiking, biking, and bird watching. Head to Patchwork Pumpkin Farm for hayrides and other fall activities, or stop by the Fresh Market at Hershey Towne Square to find locally grown produce, baked goods, and other offerings from more than 40 vendors and retailers.
Where to stay for a fall weekend in Hershey
Perched on a hillside, The Hotel Hershey has family-friendly guest rooms, suites, and villas; amenities and activities like hiking trails and family s’mores roasts; a special kids check-in process; and various perks and benefits for visiting the local attractions.
5. Hamilton County, Indiana
Just north of Indianapolis, Hamilton County has everything you need for a family-friendly fall getaway: good food, lots of things to do, and easy access from a number of nearby metro areas. Base yourself in Carmel for proximity to the Monon Trail, a 20-mile rails-to-trails paved path perfect for biking or walking. (Bike share rentals are available along the trail.) In the Carmel area, the trail passes a cool play space and Midtown Plaza, where the family can play a little ping-pong or corn hole, grab a bite to eat, or just relax on the bench swings.
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Browse the shops in the Carmel Arts & Design District, where the kids can undertake a DIY scavenger hunt to find the J. Seward Johnson Jr. sculptures dotting the area. Nickel Plate Express offers fall foliage train rides aboard historic 1950s-era train cars, while Flat Fork Creek Park is a great place to bike or hike amid the autumn leaves. At living history site Conner Prairie, special fall experiences include the spooky Headless Horseman Festival. After a long day of activity, reward the kids with a treat from The Cake Bake Shop or Graeter’s Ice Cream.
Where to stay in Hamilton County
If you’re traveling with teens, book your fall weekend getaway stay at Hotel Carmichael, where you can step right out onto the Monon Trail. For families with younger kids, Holiday Inn Indianapolis Carmel is a good option.
6. Delaware County, New York
Fall is a favorite time of year in Delaware County, New York, also known as the Great Western Catskills. The mountains are awash with vibrant autumnal hues, which can be admired by driving the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, biking the Catskill Scenic Trail, or hiking the many trails with sweeping views of the area. If you’ve got older kids, try a horseback ride at Skyhold Ranch or book a fly fishing guide to experience what’s considered the birthplace of American fly fishing.
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Pick-your-own-produce opportunities and fall farm experiences abound throughout this upstate New York vacation destination at places like Maplewood Farm & Orchard and Echo Orchard & Farm. There are farmers markets all over the county offering everything from fruits and veggies to jams and maple syrup, and picturesque towns and villages like Fleischmanns, Walton, and Hobart provide scenic locales for strolling, shopping, and dining. (Hobart has seven bookstores!)
Where to stay in Delaware County
Kids of all ages will flip for the over-the-top vibe at The Roxbury at Stratton Falls, an elaborately themed family resort where each Tower Cottage features a fantastical design scheme inspired by things fairies, super heroes, and even Dracula.
7. Virginia Beach, Virginia
If you don’t think the fall is a good time to head to the beach, think again. While it might not be swimming weather, lighter crowds and cooler temperatures at the best fall beach destinations let you enjoy your beach time without ever breaking a sweat. And Virginia Beach is definitely at the top of the list for fall weekend getaways. There’s lots to explore in this East Coast vacation playground, including miles of bikeways and trails alongside a slew of parks and natural areas.
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Go leaf peeping and wildlife watching at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or First Landing State Park (where you can spot bioluminescent waters during the fall), or take a dolphin tour to spy the marine mammals before they migrate to warmer waters for the winter. Spots like Hunt Club Farm and Flanagan Farm amp up the fall fun with pumpkin patches, hay rides, and other kid-friendly activities. And autumn is a great time of year to climb to the top of the Cape Henry Lighthouse (kids must be at least 42 inches tall to do so) or take on the ropes courses at The Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium.
Where to stay for fall weekend getaways in Virginia Beach
With three hotels to choose from, The Cavalier Resort can suit just about anyone’s unique travel needs. Stay at the The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club for a more refined stay, Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort for proximity to the sand and great views, or Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort for a little extra space for the whole family.
8. Portland, Maine
From its working waterfront to its 19th-century architecture, Portland can’t be beat for three-day fall weekend getaways. Cobblestone streets add extra charm to the Old Port district filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visit the Portland Head Light for great photos ops where fall foliage meets the ocean, then explore the Children’s Garden, arboretum, and trails at Fort Williams Park.
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At the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, the Alfond Children’s Garden features two acres of woods and theme gardens inspired by well-known children’s books by Maine authors like Blueberries for Sal (by Robert McCloskey) and Charlotte’s Web (by E.B. White). Fuel up with an apple cinnamon potato donut from The Holy Donut or a variety pack of 25 bite-sized donuts from Eighty8 Donuts, then head to the shopping outlets in nearby Freeport to stock up on fall and winter essentials at the L.L.Bean flagship store.
Where to stay in Portland during the fall
The Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port puts you within walking distance of downtown Portland’s waterfront, restaurants, and attractions. Stylish rooms and suites are ideal for a family weekend escape.
9. Branson, Missouri
The fall foliage puts on just as much of a show as any of the performers in Branson, a perennial favorite among Midwest family vacation destinations. And you can enjoy it in all kinds of ways, whether that’s a scenic drive along Highway 165, a hike through spots like the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, riding the rails on the Branson Scenic Railway, or a mountain coaster ride or zip line excursion amid the autumn leaves.
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The popular Harvest Festival at theme park Silver Dollar City and Shepherd’s PumpkinFest are just a few of the fall festivals in the area. There’s also 10,000 acres to wander at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, and Top of the Rock offers sweeping scenic views and a range of fun activities.
Where to stay in Branson
Just a few minutes from all of the action in Branson, Big Cedar Lodge is just right for outdoorsy fall weekend getaways with a range of lodging options and an almost overwhelming (in a good way) range of dining spots and activities.
10. Salt Lake City, Utah
Combining the vibrancy of a city with views of the Wasatch Mountains and easy access to outdoor fun, Salt Lake City is an ideal fit for long weekend getaway in the fall. Spots like Memory Grove Park and City Creek Canyon are full of walking, hiking, and biking trails awash with fall colors. Liberty Park is another good option for not only fall foliage but also playgrounds, paddle boats, and Tracy Aviary, home to more than 300 birds from around the world.
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The Salt Lake Explorer Pass gives you admission to the aviary and 13 other Northern Utah attractions for a single price, including perfect-for-fall sites like Red Butte Garden and This Is the Place Heritage Park. Hogle Zoo always offers a range of special October events for spooky season, and Snowbird’s annual Oktoberfest features live music, family-friendly activities, traditional Bavarian food, and more than 50 varieties of beer for the grownups. Plus there’s lots of spooky fun to be had here, like the popular Fear Factory and the city’s Grimm Ghost Tours.
Where to stay for fall weekend getaways in Salt Lake City
The Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City has 700 guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the Wasatch Mountains, along with amenities like firepits and multiple dining options.
