22 Must-Visit U.S. Cities for an Unforgettable Fall Foliage Tour
As autumn approaches, many cities across the U.S. transform into vibrant canvases of red, orange, and yellow as the leaves change colors. Fall foliage tours are a perfect way to take in the beauty of the season, and certain cities offer stunning landscapes that are best experienced during this time of year.
Whether you’re driving through scenic routes, exploring parks, or enjoying outdoor activities, these 22 U.S. cities provide the ideal backdrop for a memorable fall foliage tour. So, grab your camera and enjoy the best that fall has to offer!
1. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is often considered the quintessential fall foliage destination, with its charming village and vibrant maple trees. Take a scenic drive along Route 100 or hike the trails for breathtaking views of the autumn colors.
Stowe’s rolling hills and picturesque landscapes make it a must-visit during the fall season.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers stunning fall foliage tours filled with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds. The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best routes for leaf-peeping, offering panoramic views of the mountains draped in autumn colors.
The city’s art scene and craft breweries add to its charm.
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3. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of the best places in the country to see fall foliage. The park’s rugged coastlines and forested mountains come alive with brilliant autumn hues, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking and scenic drives.
Bar Harbor’s coastal beauty adds to the experience.
4. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport’s historic mansions and scenic coastline provide a beautiful setting for fall foliage tours. Explore the scenic Ocean Drive or stroll along the Cliff Walk to enjoy the vibrant fall colors contrasted with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Newport offers a blend of history, elegance, and natural beauty during the autumn season.
5. Lake Placid, New York
Located in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is surrounded by mountains that come alive with rich fall colors. Take a drive along the Adirondack Scenic Byway or enjoy a hike in the High Peaks for breathtaking views of the autumn foliage.
The peaceful lakes and vibrant trees create a stunning autumn landscape.
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6. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, situated on the shores of Lake Champlain, offers beautiful fall foliage tours with a mix of mountain and water views. Explore the nearby Green Mountains or ride along the Burlington Bike Path for vibrant fall colors.
The city’s lively atmosphere and outdoor activities make it a fall favorite.
7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, has one of the best fall foliage views in the South. The park’s diverse tree species create a vibrant tapestry of colors, especially along scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road.
Gatlinburg’s charming downtown and mountain views add to the fall experience.
8. Taos, New Mexico
Known for its stunning landscapes, Taos offers a unique fall foliage experience in the southwestern U.S. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway takes you through golden aspens and vibrant fall colors set against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The town’s rich art and culture scene adds to the charm.
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9. Bozeman, Montana
Bozeman is surrounded by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, making it a great destination for fall foliage tours. Drive through Bridger Canyon or explore nearby national forests to experience the changing colors of the aspens and cottonwoods.
The crisp mountain air and vibrant landscapes make Bozeman a perfect fall getaway.
10. Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth’s Bavarian-inspired village is surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, which come alive with stunning fall colors. The Wenatchee River and nearby trails offer scenic views of the autumn foliage, creating a picturesque fall experience.
Leavenworth’s Oktoberfest adds a festive touch to your visit.
11. Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its urban parks and nearby natural landscapes, offering beautiful fall foliage tours. Explore the vibrant colors in Washington Park or drive through the Columbia River Gorge for breathtaking autumn views.
Portland’s blend of city life and nature makes it an ideal fall destination.
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12. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is famous for its golden aspen trees that turn the mountainsides into a sea of gold during the fall. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is one of the most photographed spots in Colorado, especially during peak foliage season.
Hiking, biking, or driving through the area provides stunning views of the fall colors.
13. Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville is surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a great destination for fall foliage tours. The Skyline Drive offers panoramic views of the vibrant autumn colors.
Charlottesville’s historic charm and nearby wineries make it a perfect fall getaway.
14. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is another great Colorado destination for fall foliage, with vibrant aspen trees and stunning mountain views. Explore the trails in Chautauqua Park or drive along the Peak to Peak Highway for incredible fall colors.
Boulder’s outdoor adventures and lively downtown make it a popular autumn spot.
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15. Durango, Colorado
Durango’s location makes it a prime destination for fall foliage tours. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic train ride through vibrant fall landscapes and towering peaks.
Durango’s historic downtown and beautiful surroundings create a charming fall experience.
16. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem offers more than just spooky history—it’s also a great place to enjoy fall foliage. The city’s historic architecture, combined with vibrant autumn colors, creates a picturesque setting for a fall tour.
Salem’s Halloween festivities add to the seasonal charm.
17. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee’s lakeside location and nearby parks offer beautiful fall foliage views along the shores of Lake Michigan. The Milwaukee Riverwalk and nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest are great spots to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors.
Milwaukee’s rich history and lively cultural scene make it a fun fall destination.
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18. Franklin, Tennessee
Located near Nashville, Franklin offers beautiful fall foliage tours through its rolling hills and scenic countryside. The Natchez Trace Parkway is famous for leaf-peeping, with stunning views of the autumn colors.
Franklin’s historic downtown and southern charm add to the fall experience.
19. Anchorage, Alaska
Fall in Anchorage brings beautiful golden hues to the landscape, with vibrant colors reflecting off the waters of the Cook Inlet. Hike through nearby Chugach State Park or take a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm to experience the beauty of fall in Alaska.
The contrast between the fall foliage and snow-capped peaks is breathtaking.
20. Fayetteville, Arkansas
Fayetteville is surrounded by the beautiful Ozark Mountains, which come alive with fall colors during the autumn months. Explore the trails in Devil’s Den State Park or drive along the Pig Trail Scenic Byway for stunning views of the changing leaves.
Fayetteville’s vibrant arts and culture scene makes it a great fall destination.
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21. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is known for its stunning fall colors, especially along the scenic M-22 highway that winds along the shores of Lake Michigan. Explore the surrounding vineyards, orchards, and forests for a vibrant autumn display.
The mix of lakeside views and colorful foliage creates a perfect fall escape.
22. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva offers beautiful fall foliage tours with stunning views. Take a boat cruise or hike along the Geneva Lake Shore Path to enjoy the autumn colors from different perspectives.
Lake Geneva’s charming resorts and scenic beauty make it a perfect fall getaway.
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