2020 Fall Foliage Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to witness the stunning fall colors this year, the 2020 Fall Foliage Map is a must-have resource. But beyond just finding the best spots to view the colors, there are countless other experiences to enjoy in these autumn destinations. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything from top attractions to off-the-beaten-path experiences, so you can make the most of your fall foliage trip.
Top Attractions
Of course, the fall foliage itself is the main attraction during this season, but many destinations offer additional must-see sights. For example, in New England, you can visit historic Salem, Massachusetts or take a scenic drive through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In the Midwest, check out the stunning architecture of Chicago or visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. In the South, enjoy the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee or take a relaxing riverboat tour in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover during your fall foliage trip. For example, in the Pacific Northwest, visit the quirky town of Leavenworth, Washington, which transforms into a Bavarian village during the fall season. In the Northeast, explore the charming town of Woodstock, Vermont, or take a hike to the lesser-known but stunning Franconia Falls in New Hampshire.
Food Scene
No trip is complete without indulging in the local food scene, and fall foliage destinations are no exception. In the Midwest, try the famous deep dish pizza in Chicago or enjoy a hearty bowl of chili in Cincinnati, Ohio. In the Northeast, indulge in fresh lobster in Maine or enjoy a warm apple cider donut in Vermont. In the South, savor some classic BBQ in Memphis, Tennessee or indulge in some Cajun cuisine in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling during peak season can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy your fall foliage trip without breaking the bank. Try staying in a nearby town instead of in the heart of the city, or visit during the week instead of on the weekends. Consider taking advantage of free attractions, such as hiking trails or local parks, and look for deals on activities and restaurants through Groupon or other discount sites.
Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to enjoy the crisp autumn air, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had during your fall foliage trip. In the West, explore the stunning national parks of Yosemite or Glacier, or take a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley. In the Northeast, hike the picturesque trails of Acadia National Park or go kayaking on Lake Champlain. In the South, go horseback riding in the Ozark Mountains or take a scenic bike ride through the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Historical Landmarks
Many fall foliage destinations are steeped in rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore during your trip. In the Northeast, visit the historic sites of Boston, Massachusetts or explore the charming town of Newport, Rhode Island. In the Midwest, learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition in St. Charles, Missouri or visit the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis. In the South, take a tour of the historic homes in Charleston, South Carolina or visit the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee.
Family-Friendly Activities
Fall foliage trips are a great opportunity for families to bond and make memories. In the Northeast, take a family-friendly hike in the White Mountains or visit the aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut. In the Midwest, enjoy the rides at Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio or visit the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis, Indiana. In the South, go on a family-friendly ghost tour in Savannah, Georgia or visit the Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had during your fall foliage trip. In the West, take a hot springs soak in Idaho or visit the alien-themed town of Roswell, New Mexico. In the Northeast, explore the abandoned town of Centralia, Pennsylvania or go on a ghost tour in Salem, Massachusetts. In the South, visit the quirky town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas or explore the bizarre sights of Austin, Texas.
Natural Wonders
Of course, the fall foliage itself is a natural wonder, but there are plenty of other breathtaking sights to see during your trip. In the West, explore the stunning red rocks of Sedona, Arizona or visit the natural hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. In the Northeast, take a scenic drive through the Green Mountains or explore the stunning waterfalls of the Finger Lakes region. In the South, hike to the top of Stone Mountain in Georgia or explore the breathtaking caves of the Ozarks.
Vibrant Nightlife
After a long day of exploring, unwind with some vibrant nightlife in your fall foliage destination. In the Northeast, enjoy a night out in Boston or take a brewery tour in Burlington, Vermont. In the Midwest, catch a show at the iconic Chicago Theater or enjoy a night of live music in Nashville, Tennessee. In the South, explore the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans or enjoy a night out in Austin, Texas.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by visiting the local markets during your fall foliage trip. In the Northeast, explore the charming farmers markets of Vermont or visit the bustling Quincy Market in Boston. In the Midwest, check out the local arts and crafts at the Ann Arbor Art Fair or explore the farmers markets of Madison, Wisconsin. In the South, visit the historic French Market in New Orleans or explore the local boutiques of Charleston, South Carolina.
Beaches and Mountains
Many fall foliage destinations offer the best of both worlds: stunning beaches and breathtaking mountains. In the Northeast, enjoy the charming beach towns of Cape Cod or take a scenic drive through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In the Midwest, explore the stunning beaches of Lake Michigan or take a hike in the Ozarks. In the South, relax on the stunning beaches of the Gulf Coast or explore the breathtaking mountains of the Smokies.
Cultural Immersion
Immerse yourself in the local culture during your fall foliage trip by exploring the art and music scene, taking walking tours, and visiting the architectural marvels and historical sites. In the Northeast, explore the charming town of Woodstock, Vermont and its vibrant art scene, or take a walking tour of the historic Freedom Trail in Boston. In the Midwest, take a tour of the stunning architecture of Chicago or explore the vibrant arts scene of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In the South, visit the stunning architecture of Savannah, Georgia or take a tour of the historic French Quarter in New Orleans.
Adventure Sports and Wellness Retreats
Finally, for those looking for a bit of adventure or relaxation during their fall foliage trip, there are plenty of adventure sports and wellness retreats to choose from. In the West, enjoy a relaxing yoga retreat in Sedona, Arizona or go on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure in Colorado. In the Northeast, take a relaxing hot air balloon ride over Vermont or go on a challenging rock climbing adventure in the Adirondacks. In the South, relax with a spa day in Asheville, North Carolina or go on a thrilling zipline adventure in the Smokies.
With so much to see and do during your fall foliage trip, this comprehensive travel guide is just the beginning. Whether you’re looking to experience the top attractions or discover hidden gems, indulge in the local food scene or explore the breathtaking natural wonders, there’s something for everyone during this stunning season.