These destinations belong on every leaf peeper's bucket list.
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Just when the sweltering summer days start to feel unbearable, a crisp autumn breeze arrives to signal the change of seasons. With fall comes a host of seasonal joys—think jack-o’-lanterns, festive feasts, and spine-tingling horror flicks—but few are as eagerly anticipated as the chance to admire brilliant fall foliage. Although the autumnal equinox lands on Monday, September 22, this year, many would argue that true fall doesn’t begin until the leaves start transforming. For those lucky enough to live where all four seasons unfold, the changing canopy might be a familiar sight. But for others, the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds of fall are nothing short of magical.
So, what causes this colorful spectacle? As temperatures drop and daylight dwindles, trees receive less sunlight to fuel photosynthesis. This slows the production of chlorophyll—the pigment responsible for green leaves—allowing the leaves to fade and die gracefully, revealing the rich seasonal shades underneath. Since the window of peak color is brief, planning ahead is key to catching the foliage at its most breathtaking.
Autumn is also an ideal season for travel. It offers a break from summer crowds, sticky heat, and unpredictable downpours. Why not let leaf peeping guide your next getaway? While the Northeastern U.S.—including fall favorites like Vermont and Maine—boasts iconic scenery, international hotspots like Edinburgh and Amsterdam also offer jaw-dropping displays. Whether you're a seasoned foliage chaser or simply looking for a scenic escape, we’ve gathered 40 of the best places around the world to see fall colors this year.
One of the happiest cities (and countries) on Earth, Copenhagen is also one of the best places to visit in the fall because it blends a bustling city with a relaxed energy. Stop by one of the countless coffee shops and bakeries for a delicious treat, and don't forget to rent a boat to ogle at the fall leaves from the canals.
Where to Stay: The Audo Copenhagen
Oregon's wine country is stunning. Just south of Portland, this region boasts rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and ample leaf-peeping as far as the eye can see.
Where to Stay: The Grange Estate Dundee Hills
Spring in D.C. may get a lot of hype due to cherry blossom season, but fall in our nation's capitol is equally as beautiful. Walk along the National Mall for the best views, and don't forget to wander past the chic Georgetown rowhouses for exterior inspiration.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C.
Beaches are not just for warm weather. Cape Cod is one of the best places to visit in the fall for a cozy weekend getaway. Northeastern fall foliage can't be beaten, and here you'll get the charm of a beach cottage and feel like the lead in a Nancy Meyers movie.
Where to Stay: Sea Crest Beach Resort
A mere 30 minutes outside of Nashville, Leiper's Fork, Tennessee, features some of the best views in the state. We recommend forgoing city accommodations to fully embrace the changing seasons (and colors). Opt for a daily hike and a view of the hills.
Where to Stay: Southall Farm & Inn
Venture up north and spend a crisp fall day hiking in Acadia National Park. Not only does it boast some incredible views of Maine's coastline, but it also features a vibrant array of fall foliage in nearly every color imaginable.
Where to Stay: The Bar Harbor Grand
While Connecticut's shoreline may get all the tourist attention, the state's northwestern quadrant is one of the best places to visit in the fall, featuring some of the state's most beautiful forests and parks. Pictured here is a riverside view in Farmington, a mere 30-minute drive from Hartford.
Where to Stay: The Goodwin
Eastern Europe often gets forgotten about in favor of the popularity of its Western counterparts, but Slovenia's fall foliage is worth the extra few hours on the plane. At Bled Lake, take a canoe out for a spin to get a 360 view of the famous castle.
Where to Stay: A Cozy Airbnb
If you're the outdoorsy type, fall is the perfect time to trek out to the Pacific Northwest for some hiking, climbing, and camping. This picturesque waterfall is Multnomah Falls, which is outside Portland on the border of Washington and Oregon.
Where to Stay: The Hoxton, Portland
It may be known for its beaches and parks, but Vancouver is one of the best places to visit in the fall if you love walking with a spectacular view.
Where to Stay: The Fairmont Hotel
There's nothing like a quaint mountain town on a crisp fall day. Whether you're looking for a day trip from D.C. or planning on staying a while, Harper's Ferry, West Virginia will hit the spot. Make sure to squeeze in a hike while you're there for the best foliage views.
Where to Stay: The Lyle Hotel
Aspen is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, it's one of the best places to visit in the fall thanks to the breathtaking Aspen trees. Their golden glow is truly magical.
Where to Stay: Hotel Jerome
It doesn't get any more scenic than Vermont in autumn. Sign us up for all the foliage and all the syrup, please, and thank you.
Where to Stay: Twin Farms
Want to go somewhere spooky for Halloween? One of the best places to visit in the fall is Sleepy Hollow. And it's an easy day trip to take from New York City, just about an hour's drive north. For a similar October setting, head further north to Salem, Massachusetts, or the Berkshires.
Where to Stay: Crabtree's Kittle House Restaurant & Inn
You could leave the city for a glimpse of stunning foliage—or you could just head to Central Park. The changing trees are particularly awe-inspiring in contrast with the city's skyscrapers.
Where to Stay: Gramercy Park Hotel
California might be the last place you'd think about going to see the leaves change, but hear us out. Seeing leaves changing on the trees in New England is classic, but seeing all the fall colors in the vineyards is seriously special. Bonus: Hotels, like the ultra-luxe Meadowood resort, are much less expensive in wine country's off-season.
Where to Stay: Meadowood Napa Valley
If you're looking for a quaint mountain town to visit this fall, consider Asheville, North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the prettiest drives in the country, so it's also an ideal destination for road trips. While you're there, explore the Biltmore mansion and gardens and shop from local artisans.
Where to Stay: The Foundry
If you're waiting for snow to visit Alaska, consider changing your game plan. Denali National Park is one of the best places to visit in the fall because it's bursting with color (and not to mention more than 200 species of animals) come autumn, making it a photographer's dream.
Where to Stay: McKinley Chalet Resort
Grand Island in Lake Superior, Michigan is the perfect place to get some good thinking done. The icy, bright blue water looks especially striking against the warmth of the fall foliage beyond. Head here for a long scenic drive if you're in the region.
Where to Stay: Fitger's Inn
Virginia's Shenandoah Valley provides a myriad of colors and views for days. If a fall foliage road trip sounds like your jam, this is the spot to do it.
Where to Stay: Grey Pine Lodge
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