10 Stunning Towns You Have To See For Yourself In The Fall Season

Fall is upon us! While some people might prefer the intimacy of their own homes, to stay in and curl up with a nice cup of their hot beverage of choice, family, furry friends, and possibly a good book (or a suspenseful show!), others prefer to venture outdoors!

You shouldn’t let the gloomy weather stop you from experiencing all the changing colors of this season for yourself. Grab your raincoat, water-resistant shoes, and get ready to pack your backs because we’ve rounded up what we (humbly) believe are 10 of the most summing destinations for the fall season.

All of these offer not only beautiful sights and picture-perfect shades of red, but they’re also family-friendly for those of you who’d like to take your loved ones on vacation.

We’ve also provided each location with hand-picked accommodation that will make your vacation one to remember.

We’re also aware that during these uncertain times, traveling may be restricted. No matter what, we want you, your family, and friends to be safe. So, make sure you follow all safety precautions!

Stowe, Vermont

Our first pick is a great family-friendly fall destination, particularly for those households with younger children that are keen on exploring the great outdoors. If you want to lose yourself in a stunning fall vista, Stowe, Vermont is the perfect place to do it.

The 5.3-mile recreation path can be tackled by foot or with bike rentals so for nature-loving families this should prove to be just the right amount for a pleasant day trip under the brightly colored foliage. We guarantee you’ll want nothing more than to spend hours exploring the meadows and crossing the West Branch River over one or more of its 11 bridges.

Another activity loved by parents is paddling downriver to the Maple Outlet in Jeffersonville, where tourists and locals alike are invited to learn about the process of making maple syrup. What better way to end the 1 – ½ hour morning paddle?

You’ll also find a village for shopping and strolling, theaters, 5-star restaurants, and galleries to visit. The Depot Street Malt Shoppe is a fan favorite with it’s 1950’s style decor. Kids will also love to visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill and the Percy Farm Corn Maze.

We recommend staying at the Trapp Family Lodge, named after the real von Trapp family from the Sound of Music. This historic location is where they relocated after escaping Nazi Europe.

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa might be a perfect pick for families that want to please everyone, mom, dad, and kids! You can pamper yourself all you want without straying too far from Stowe village for evening outings.

Woodstock, New York

If you’re from New York City or will be around the Big Apple come October, we highly recommend you visit Woodstock, a particularly lovely town just a 2.5-hour drive away.

It makes for a particularly perfect romantic destination for those who love the color-changing season. You can enjoy artsy boutiques and crystal shops in the afternoon after strolling, hiking, or biking through Temper Mountain’s trails. But it’s an equally beautiful vacation destination for families too, especially if your kids enjoy apple picking. Two orchards, the High Spring Orchard and the Woodstock Orchards offer tourists and locals this unique fall opportunity, one we know will be picture perfect!

Taking the Catskill Mountain Railroad Scenic Tour is also a good opportunity for those who want to sit back and relax while enjoying the ever-changing scenery. The rides usually take thirty minutes, and you can also opt for fall foliage train rides!

Do you want perfect views of the mountains from every balcony? Nothing beats waking up in the morning, a warm cup of coffee, a hug from your loved ones, while looking out the window at the vast expanse of nature from the comfort of a room at the Emerson Resort.

But while the Emerson Resort might be family-friendly, it might not be the most affordable option for everyone. Keeping in mind all kinds of wallets, we also recommend trying out the equally pleasant Woodstock Inn where you’ll feel right at home in a room with a full kitchen, whirlpool tub, and fireplace. Oh, did we also mention the free continental breakfast? Divine!

Beacon, New York

Here’s another perfect fall vacation spot perfect for residents of New York City that simply need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle. Of course, even if you’re not a resident we think you should give Beacon a try- something tells us you’ll find yourself coming back every year that follows!

So, Beacon is a small town just 60 miles north of New York City that will charm you with its Victorian Architecture alone. It’s also bursting at the seams with art, culture, delicious food, and boutique shopping.

And who could forget the great outdoors? You can enjoy pristine autumn weather if you visit during the Beacon Waterfront Pumpkin Festival, which takes place at Fishkill Farms. Ever dreamed of tasking 15 different types of apples during one outing? Here’s your chance.
For those who prefer to explore the streets if their vacation destinations we also recommend you visit the modern art museum, Dia: Beacon, housed in a former Nabisco factory. You’ll finally catch a glimpse of a collection of the Dia Foundation of art from the 1960s.

The Roundhouse at Beacon Falls is a perfect place to stay for singles, couples, or families alike. Located just minutes from Mount Beacon, right on the Fishkill Creek, this chic hotel houses two waterfall facing restaurants. You’ll also have the chance to unwind at their spa or keep active in the Yoga studio. Also, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of Main Street, so you’ll never be far from all the things that make Beacon such a perfect holiday hotspot.

Newport, Rhode Island

If you want to enjoy a little bit of American history while you take a break and treat yourself to a vacation this season, look no further than Newport, Rhode Island. Decadent mansions have long since been called the city’s prime attractions, but you can do more than just admire the architecture while you’re visiting.

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to book the one hour narrated cruise around the Newport Harbor, then quickly pop over to the Fort Adams State Park to explore the citadel. The historic Newport’s Old Colony & Newport Railway, which will take you along the west side of Aquidneck Island is also a favorite amongst tourists.

But one of the most interesting places to visit is the Newport Exploration Center, a maritime museum where children can learn all about sea life. Just make sure to visit one of the many orchards in the area, including the family-owned Rocky Brook Orchard to pick a few snacks for you and your loved ones!

The Newport Marriott is a great place to stay particularly because of it’s bountiful amenities, including a spa and a pool. Many visitors also like the fact that it’s close to the mansions on Ocean Drive.

But if you want more than a straightforward hotel stay, we invite you to try out the Lighthouse Inn of Galilee. Book yourself a harbor side room and rest assured that you and your family will have everything you’d ever want, including an indoor swimming pool, an arcade and a game room. Talk about kid-friendly, huh?

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Residents of Bethlehem would say their city is rather peaceful and quiet for most of the year. That is, of course, until the leaves start changing colors. That’s when Bethlehem, located in the Leigh Valley, truly comes to life. In addition to its antique shops, restaurants, and museums, ghost tours and harvest festivals are other popular attractions that come to life during fall.

But perhaps ghost tours aren’t as kid-friendly as some parents might like. However, here’s why Bethlehem is definitely considered a perfect city for families to visit. First, there’s the local Da Vinci Science Center, a 10,000 square feet center for kids of all ages to learn about science and technology. Once they’re done learning they can enjoy the Crayola Experience in nearby Easton, a museum dedicated to crayons and markers! Talk about a colorful experience.

Finally, Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a perfect way to take the scenery in after a full day of activities, particularly if you’re too tired to add another hike to your already busy schedule. The ride goes through Lehigh Gorge State Park, starting from Port Clinton and ending in downtown Jim Thorpe.

Hyatt in Bethlehem is known for its spacious and comfortable rooms. But even better is the fact that it’s within walking distance from galleries, antique shops, and restaurants of all kinds. Plus, it’s a perfectly affordable option if you consider the fact that it includes free parking, breakfast, and WiFi.

Vail, Colorado

If when you think of Vail you think of the perfect ski-resort destination, well… you’re not wrong. But it just so happens that this city doubles as the perfect getaway for fall lovers. Vail stole our hearts in particular due to their hot air balloon tours which offer a unique perspective over the stunning foliage.

You’ll finally be able to visit the Rocky Mountains, their rivers, waterfalls, and lakes, and feel like you’ve just been transported to a fairy tale. We guarantee that no matter how nice your accommodations might be, you’ll be looking at every opportunity to spend time outside, from sunrise to sunset.

For example, you and your family can go horse riding, zip-lining bike riding or you could simply go for a walk through the Farmer’s Market. Fly fishing is another activity we know kids will fall in love with! You’ll also eat like you’ve never eaten before thanks to Vail’s farm-to-table dining!

We can’t stress this enough: you should also consider scenic drives though the Battle Mountain Pass, Red Sandstone Park, Brush Creek Road, and Independence Pass, just make sure to stop every now and again and snap plenty of pictures.

You could either stay at the Lodge at Vail, which many visitors have said that is great for kids due to the murphy beds, wood-burning furnaces for a lovely, cuddly experience, and balconies with mountain views. The Arrabelle at Vail Square is just as perfect for families. Reviewers have applauded them for their flat-screen TVs, free WiFi and electric fireplace, spacious rooms, and pumice stones in the shower. Also, how could we forget the balconies with the to-die-for view?

Hood River, Oregon

Hood River is such a scenic place you could easily spend all your time there just walking around orchards, agricultural areas, or around the river. The Indian Creek Trail or Waterfront Park are two wonderful places to spend hours upon hours around. If your feet will ever need a break, don’t forget there’s also the Mt. Hood Railroad Excursion Train which goes through the Upper Valley of Hood River or, alternatively, a cruise on the “Historic Columbia River Scenic Waterway” on the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler.

Feeling even more adventurous? Why not explore Mother Nature from above with the help of an airplane or glider?

Something tells us that as soon as you’ll get a taste of the Dalles Farmers Market, chestnut farms, vineyards, and fruit farms you’d like to take up permanent residency in Hood River, and who could blame you?

The Comfort Suites Hood River is exactly what it says on the tin, a comfortable place for singles, couples, or families. The all-suite hotel is located less than 2 miles from the Mount Hood Railroad. In addition to free WiFi and parking, you’ll also get free breakfast!

Port Townsend, Washington

Ever wanted to experience the full beauty of the Olympic National Park? There’s no better time than the fall season! Do so by visiting Port Townsend, another family-friendly town chock full of hiking trails- no, really, there are trails all around the city, marked by an overabundance of signposts.

Biking the Larry Scott Trail to Port Angeles or taking a boat charter are two activities that children have been known to really enjoy in this area. In addition to those outdoorsy activities, you can also visit the Jefferson County Historical Society Museum, the Fort Warden State Park, Port Townsend Marine Science Center, the Northwest Maritime Center, and the Rothschild House. Just make sure you’ve booked enough days to enjoy everything Port Townsend has to offer.

The kids can enjoy apple picking while you and your spouse enjoy cider testing at the local orchards and farms. If you want to take a romantic stroll on the waterfront, we highly recommend the town’s Uptown Historical district.

Near said waterfront and Fort Warden State Park, you’ll find the Swan Hotel, where you could either book a room or a cottage with an inspiring bay view. You won’t regret getting a cottage, either, as they have whirl tubs, fireplaces, and patios.

Avalon, California

22 miles south of Los Angeles, Avalon is a unique place for you to escape the city during fall. Who wouldn’t want to experience the beauty of the changing leaves in a truly majestic city? This picturesque seaport is (need we say it?) ideal for families who need a little break from all the traffic and concrete buildings.

Paddleboarding, zip-lining, and boat rides are par for the course in Avalon. You could also go for a swim in the ocean as locals say fall feels more like an Indian summer. Basically, you won’t have to pack all your warmest clothes for this vacation and if the weather is just right you could simply stroll around in a T-shirt.

The Catalina Swing Dance Festival, JazzTrax, the Catalina Art Festival, and the Catalina Air Show all take place during fall, so make sure there’s enough time left in your itinerary to enjoy as many as possible.

The Hotel Metropole, an upscale hotel that overlooks the harbor, is a great place to stay thanks to their spacious, modern rooms, fireplaces, restaurants, and onsite hopping. The Catalina Island Inn Hotel is also great for families, especially thanks to their deluxe plush beds, which reviewers have all raved about. Their complimentary continental breakfast is just the cherry on top.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

And for our last pick, we’re happy to present St. Simons Island. In addition to treating your senses by taking in the fall foliage, you’ll also be able to take long walks down the beaches after which restaurants will happily invite you in to try their delicious seafood.

Nearby Jekyll Island is also a favorite among children thanks to all the exploring possibilities. Families have also had a wonderful time letting their kids climbing up the local lighthouse, seeing the historic Christ Church, or taking a trolley ride.

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is also a well-known attraction in the area that will offer the little ones a little of a lesson about oceanic residents alongside a fun time!

It’s probably best to visit this city during late fall as this is when all the colors begin to change and make sure you grab your camera and snap as many pictures as possible. St. Simons Island Beach and the Massengale Park are perfect for morning, afternoon, or evening walks!

We encourage you to stay at the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort. With six swimming pools, a plethora of activities for kids, and a sandy play area, who could resist this beachfront resort?