Fall Foliage 2020 Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip this autumn, you won’t want to miss the incredible display of color that comes with the changing leaves. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, there’s something for everyone when it comes to fall foliage. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide for the Fall Foliage 2020 Map.
Top Attractions
When it comes to fall foliage, some destinations are simply iconic. New England is a perennial favorite, with its quaint villages, rolling hills, and stunning coastline. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also a popular destination, with its vibrant colors and breathtaking vistas. Other top attractions include the Adirondack Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Ozarks.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is a lesser-known destination that offers stunning fall foliage and a thriving wine scene. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is another hidden gem, with its remote forests and rugged coastline.
Food Scene
Fall is the perfect time to indulge in hearty comfort food, and there are plenty of destinations that offer delicious eats. Vermont is famous for its maple syrup, while Pennsylvania is known for its apple cider and pumpkin treats. In the South, you can’t go wrong with a bowl of gumbo or a plate of fried chicken and biscuits.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling during peak foliage season can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Consider staying in a vacation rental or camping instead of booking a hotel room. Look for free or low-cost activities, like hiking or visiting local museums. And don’t forget to take advantage of discounts and deals, like the National Parks Senior Pass.
Outdoor Adventures
From hiking and biking to kayaking and zip lining, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had during fall foliage season. Consider taking a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the colorful landscape, or go horseback riding through the woods. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at rock climbing or white water rafting.
Historical Landmarks
Fall foliage season is also a great time to explore the country’s rich history. Visit colonial-era sites like Williamsburg, Virginia, or explore the Civil War battlefields in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The Freedom Trail in Boston is another popular destination, with its Revolutionary War-era landmarks and museums.
Family-Friendly Activities
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to enjoy during fall foliage season. Take a scenic train ride through the mountains, or go apple picking at a local orchard. Many destinations also offer pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes, which are sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider seeking out off-the-beaten-path experiences. Take a ghost tour in Savannah, Georgia, or visit a haunted house in New Orleans. Attend a fall festival in a small town, or visit a farm to see how cider is made.
Natural Wonders
Of course, the real star of the show during fall foliage season is the natural beauty of the changing leaves. Take a scenic drive through the mountains, or hike to a waterfall to see the colors up close. Consider visiting places like Acadia National Park in Maine, Glacier National Park in Montana, or the Grand Tetons in Wyoming.
Vibrant Nightlife
Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Many destinations offer vibrant nightlife scenes, with live music, craft cocktails, and local brews. Head to Nashville for some honky tonk, or check out the jazz scene in New Orleans. If you’re looking for something more low-key, consider visiting a cozy pub or wine bar.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience a destination is to visit its local markets. Fall is a great time to sample seasonal produce like apples, pumpkins, and squash. Visit a farmer’s market to stock up on fresh ingredients, or head to a craft fair to find unique souvenirs.
Beaches and Mountains
While fall foliage is often associated with mountains and forests, there are also plenty of destinations that offer stunning fall colors along the coast. Visit places like Cape Cod, Massachusetts, or the Outer Banks of North Carolina for a unique fall foliage experience. Alternatively, head to the mountains for a cozy cabin getaway.
Cultural Immersion
Immerse yourself in local culture by attending festivals, visiting museums, or taking a cooking class. Learn about Native American culture at the Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina, or explore the Amish way of life in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Alternatively, attend a fall harvest festival or Oktoberfest celebration to experience local traditions.
Art and Music Scene
Many destinations offer thriving art and music scenes, with galleries, theaters, and concert venues to explore. Visit Asheville, North Carolina, for its vibrant arts community, or head to Nashville for its country music scene. Many small towns also offer local art walks or live music events during the fall months.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to see a destination is on foot. Take a walking tour of a historic district, or explore a city’s street art scene. Many destinations also offer guided hikes or nature walks, which are a great way to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Architectural Marvels
Finally, fall foliage season is a great time to appreciate the country’s architectural marvels. Visit iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building or the Golden Gate Bridge, or explore historic mansions like Biltmore Estate in North Carolina or Monticello in Virginia. Alternatively, take a tour of a local brewery or winery to see how these establishments blend modern architecture with traditional techniques.
With so much to see and do, fall foliage season is the perfect time to hit the road and explore. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Fall Foliage 2020 Map has something for everyone. So grab your camera, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the beauty of autumn in America.