There’s something special about traveling in the fall.

The cooler temperatures, colorful landscapes, harvest season, cozy towns, scenic drives—and, of course, all those gorgeous shades of red, orange and gold—make autumn one of my favorite times to explore.

If you’re looking for a five-day getaway this fall, here are five destinations worth considering. Whether your ideal trip includes a scenic road trip, wine tasting, hiking, charming small towns, or simply enjoying the view with a great cup of coffee, there’s an option here for you.

1. New England

When most people picture fall foliage, New England is probably the first place that comes to mind—and for good reason.

Vermont and New Hampshire are particularly spectacular in autumn. One of my favorite ideas would be a scenic drive along Vermont’s Route 100, a 216-mile route through the heart of the state.

Along the way, you’ll find covered bridges, local general stores, cider mills, maple syrup shops, and the quintessential fall town of Stowe.

In New Hampshire, the Kancamagus Highway offers another unforgettable fall drive. The 35-mile route between Lincoln and Conway is known for spectacular foliage, scenic overlooks, waterfalls and hiking opportunities.

Best for: Classic fall scenery, scenic drives, charming towns and outdoor adventures.

One thing to consider: Peak foliage weekends can be busy, and accommodations can book well in advance.

2. New York State

New York is so much more than New York City.

Head north into the Adirondack Mountains for spectacular fall scenery, scenic drives, hiking and lake views. The region offers numerous routes to explore, making it easy to create a relaxing road-trip getaway.

If you're traveling later in October, consider the Finger Lakes instead. Fall foliage arrives a little later here, and the timing can be perfect for combining colorful scenery with another autumn favorite: harvest season.

The Finger Lakes region is home to orchards, vineyards and wineries, making it possible to spend the day surrounded by fall color and sampling local wines.

A drive along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail would be a wonderful addition, as would a visit to Watkins Glen State Park, known for its dramatic gorge, waterfalls and stone bridges.

Best for: Wine lovers, foodies, scenic drives, hiking and a classic harvest-season getaway.

3. Oregon

For a completely different take on fall, head west to Oregon.

The Willamette Valley is renowned for its wine country, particularly its Pinot Noir, and autumn brings a wonderful combination of changing scenery and harvest experiences.

Near Mount Hood, the Hood River Fruit Loop offers a 35-mile route through orchards, farm stands, wineries, breweries and cideries.

Then there’s the spectacular Columbia River Gorge.

Drive the Historic Columbia River Highway and take in dramatic landscapes, colorful foliage and waterfalls—including the iconic Multnomah Falls.

Fall color tends to arrive later in Oregon than in many of the traditional East Coast foliage destinations, making this a great option if you’re looking for an autumn getaway later in October.

Best for: Wine and cider lovers, foodies, scenic drives and travelers looking for something beyond traditional New England foliage.

4. Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are beautiful any time of year, but autumn adds an entirely different dimension.

Because of the region’s elevation changes, foliage can stretch across several weeks. Higher elevations, including areas around Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap, generally see color first.

Base yourself in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, or explore the North Carolina side of the mountains.

For a quintessential fall experience, consider Hendersonville, where you can enjoy orchards, cider, corn mazes and other seasonal activities.

For a more romantic getaway, Asheville offers historic architecture, the Biltmore Estate, breweries and the River Arts District.

Another option is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the mountains toward Shenandoah National Park. Its dramatic changes in elevation make it possible to experience fall color at different points along the drive.

Best for: Couples, mountain lovers, scenic drives, hiking and a combination of fall activities and great food.

5. Colorado Rockies

And then there’s Colorado.

As someone who loves the mountains, I couldn’t leave the Colorado Rockies off the list.

Colorado’s fall scenery is a little different from the East Coast. Instead of the deep reds and oranges you’ll find in New England, Colorado is famous for its brilliant golden aspens.

For a fall getaway with a culinary twist, consider heading toward Palisade and exploring the Fruit & Wine Byway through the Grand Valley. Orchards, vineyards and wineries are surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

Or head southwest and tackle the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, a 236-mile loop connecting Durango, Telluride, Silverton and Ouray.

And if you're feeling adventurous, the Million Dollar Highway provides some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the region.

Best for: Mountain scenery, road trips, wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who loves golden aspens.

So…Which Fall Getaway Would You Choose?

The best part about fall travel is that there really isn't one wrong answer.

Maybe you want the classic reds and oranges of New England. Maybe wine country and harvest season sound more appealing. Or perhaps you're dreaming of a mountain road trip surrounded by golden aspens.

And that's where the fun begins.

Not sure which destination—or which type of fall getaway—is right for you? That's exactly what I'm here for.

I can help you choose the destination, determine the best time to go, find the right accommodations and build an itinerary that gives you plenty of time to enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.

Ready to plan your fall escape? Let's start dreaming.

Global Getaways by McCall Travel
Travel well. Travel intentionally. Travel with confidence.