Weekend Getaways for Fall

Though summer often marks the end of travel season and kids go back to school, fall is the perfect time to get away. Depending on the destination, you can often find lower prices because it is before or after peak season and temperatures are typically mild and comfortable making it a great time to go. There are also plenty of long weekends to choose from, like Veterans Day and long breaks for the holidays.

Top Fall Destinations

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Spectacular mountain views dotted with the vibrant colors of the fall leaves make the Smoky Mountains a prime weekend getaway for couples and families. Choose from mountainside cabins and cozy bed and breakfasts, the quaint mountain towns are home to hearty restaurants, craft shops and plenty of walking trails to explore. Spend a few days in the Smokies and enjoy the mountain air.

Makinac Island, Michigan
Makinac Island, located on Lake Huron, is a perfect weekend getaway. This unique island is known for its lovely Victorian architecture and its delicious fudge. Take a boat across the lake and once you reach the island, you can walk or bike the rest of your visit. The resort island has plenty of fun activities for families and couples alike including fishing, boating and historical sightseeing.

Charleston, South Carolina
With the large crowds and warm temperatures gone after the summer, fall is a delightful to time to visit the charming southern city of Charleston. The cobblestone streets and walkable layout underneath the large old trees turn gorgeous shades of yellow and orange during autumn months. Be sure to visit the numerous fall festivals and historic sites, or take a tour of the largest tea plantation and have an iced tea under the changing leaves. Don’t forget about the gorgeous beaches – there is plenty to do on a long weekend getaway.

Crater Lake, Oregon
Though the most popular time to visit America’s deepest lake is during warm summer months, an autumn visit to Crater Lake has plenty of advantages. In the fall, the roads are still clear of snow, temperatures are mild and you can miss the large summer crowds. Autumn was made for hiking. Take a trip to see all the rock formations, visit waterfalls, do some birdwatching, or take a boat out on the lake and catch your fill of rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania
There’s no time like fall to visit Pennsylvania Dutch Country. During harvest season, you’ll find apple orchards, ripened corn mazes and farmers markets with fresh produce and homemade pies – not to mention “Antiques Capital, U.S.A.” is just a short drive away. Enjoy a slower pace, Amish charm and good, old-fashioned fun in this scenic countryside.

San Antonio, Texas
With multiple outdoor attractions, like the Alamo, the famous Riverwalk and the Bridge Caverns, fall is the perfect time to take a family trip to Texas. The summer heat has cooled and there are enough indoor and outdoor activities to keep both children and adults entertained.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming
For an outdoor adventure with beautiful scenery and wildlife, a trip to Jackson Hole during the fall is ideal. The beauty of the mountains is amplified by the bright yellows, oranges and reds of the trees, and the crisp mountain air is perfect for spending time outdoors. Try horseback riding, listen to elk bugling or spend your weekend getaway shopping. There’s something for everyone.

Now that you have some ideas on where to go this fall, set your travel budget, make some reservations and take that trip!

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