As I write this, the balmy days of summer are about to give way to the crisp, vibrant hues of autumn. Now is the time to dust off your scarves, grab a pumpkin spice latte, and embark on enchanting day trips that celebrate the beauty of fall.
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking foliage, charming harvest festivals, or outdoor adventures, the autumn season offers an array of destinations that will leave you in awe. Join me as I show you a curated list of unforgettable day trips to take in the fall.
Explore New England’s Fall Foliage
If you are lucky enough to live in the New England area, you are lucky enough!
No list of autumn day trips would be complete without mentioning the beautiful landscapes of New England.
My husband and I honeymooned in Massachusetts’s in September of 2001.
We drove up the coast to see the many lighthouses that were along the way. The leaves were in full turn and the views were just breathtaking!
As the leaves transform into a beautiful tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows, take a scenic drive through Vermont, New Hampshire, or Maine.
Explore renowned locations like the White Mountains, Acadia National Park, or witness the vibrant hues of the Green Mountain Byway.
Immerse yourself in the quintessential charm of New England as you visit historic villages, apple orchards, and charming roadside stands.
Traverse Wine Country
Fall is the perfect time to indulge your senses in the bountiful vineyards and wineries.
Plan a day trip to regions such as Napa Valley in California, Finger Lakes in New York, or Willamette Valley in Oregon.
Sip on exquisite wines while marveling at the vineyards’ stunning autumnal colors.
Many wineries also offer seasonal events, including grape stomping, harvest festivals, and wine tastings paired with farm-fresh produce.
Soak in the scenic beauty, relish the flavors of the season, and create lasting memories.
Discover National Parks
Enchanting Coastal Retreats
If you prefer the salty breeze of the ocean, a coastal day trip during fall can be equally captivating.
Head to Cape Cod in Massachusetts, where the summer crowds have dispersed, leaving behind tranquil beaches and charming seaside towns.
Explore the scenic coastal trails, savor fresh seafood, and catch glimpses of migrating birds.
Alternatively, visit the Pacific Northwest and discover the rugged charm of the Oregon Coast.
From Cannon Beach to Cape Perpetua, the juxtaposition of colorful foliage against dramatic cliffs will leave you spellbound.
Harvest Festivals and Pumpkin Patches
Fall is a season of transformation, where nature unveils its most dazzling colors.
From the vibrant foliage in New England to the coastal splendor of the Pacific, you can always find nature at its’ most dazzling in the Fall.
So, gas up your car and get out there to see what the land has to offer in your area. There are many unforgettable day trips to take in the fall.
