Table of Contents
Fall Foliage Map 2020
Top Attractions
When it comes to enjoying the fall foliage, there are plenty of top attractions to explore. Some of the best destinations in the US to see the fall colors include New England, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Rocky Mountains. In New England, you can visit popular destinations like Acadia National Park and the White Mountains. In the Great Smoky Mountains, you can explore the Cades Cove Loop and the Blue Ridge Parkway. And in the Rocky Mountains, you can take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road or visit Rocky Mountain National Park.
Hidden Gems
Secret Spots
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider visiting some of the hidden gems of fall foliage destinations. In New England, the Kancamagus Highway is a lesser-known scenic drive that offers stunning fall colors. In the Great Smoky Mountains, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a peaceful drive that offers views of the foliage and historic buildings. And in the Rocky Mountains, the Million Dollar Highway offers breathtaking views of the fall colors and mountain peaks.
Lesser Known Parks
There are also plenty of lesser-known parks that offer beautiful fall foliage scenery. In New England, Baxter State Park in Maine is a great destination for hiking and fall colors. In the Great Smoky Mountains, Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful environment for viewing the foliage. And in the Rocky Mountains, the Maroon Bells in Colorado offer stunning reflections of the fall colors in the surrounding lakes.
Food Scene
When it comes to fall cuisine, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy. In New England, try the traditional apple cider donuts or pumpkin pie. In the Great Smoky Mountains, enjoy some southern comfort food like fried chicken and biscuits. And in the Rocky Mountains, try some hearty dishes like elk stew or bison burgers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling during peak fall foliage season can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Consider visiting during the weekdays instead of the weekends, and book accommodations in advance to get the best deals. You can also save money by packing your own food and snacks instead of eating out for every meal.
Outdoor Adventures
Fall is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. In New England, hike the Appalachian Trail or go kayaking on the Connecticut River. In the Great Smoky Mountains, go on a guided horseback ride or try your hand at fly fishing. And in the Rocky Mountains, take a scenic bike ride or go whitewater rafting.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the fall season. In New England, take a scenic train ride or visit a pumpkin patch. In the Great Smoky Mountains, go on a family hike or visit Dollywood. And in the Rocky Mountains, take a scenic gondola ride or go on a family bike ride.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, consider some off-the-beaten-path experiences. In New England, visit the Salem Witch Museum or go on a ghost tour. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the abandoned Elkmont town or go on a moonshine tour. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the ghost town of St. Elmo or go on a hot air balloon ride.
Natural Wonders
There are plenty of natural wonders to explore during the fall season. In New England, visit the White Mountains or the Acadia National Park. In the Great Smoky Mountains, explore the waterfalls or go on a nature walk. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the Garden of the Gods or the Rocky Mountain National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for some nightlife during your fall foliage trip, there are plenty of options. In New England, visit the bars and restaurants in Boston or Portland. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge for live music and entertainment. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit Denver or Boulder for a lively nightlife scene.
Local Markets
For a taste of local culture and cuisine, visit the local markets during your fall foliage trip. In New England, visit the Portland Farmers’ Market or the Boston Public Market. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the Gatlinburg Farmers Market or the Dandridge Farmers Market. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the Boulder Farmers Market or the Denver Union Station Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
If you’re looking for a combination of beach and mountain scenery, there are plenty of destinations to explore. In New England, visit the White Mountains and the beaches of Cape Cod. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the mountains and the beaches of the Outer Banks. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the mountains and the beaches of Santa Fe or San Diego.
Cultural Immersion
For a taste of local culture and history, consider some cultural immersion activities. In New England, visit the museums and historic sites in Boston or Salem. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the Cherokee Heritage Center or the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the Taos Pueblo or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
Art and Music Scene
If you’re a fan of art and music, there are plenty of destinations to explore during the fall season. In New England, visit the Portland Museum of Art or the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. In the Great Smoky Mountains, attend a concert at the Ryman Auditorium or the Grand Ole Opry. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the Denver Art Museum or attend a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Walking Tours and Architectural Marvels
For a taste of history and architecture, consider taking a walking tour or visiting some architectural marvels. In New England, take a walking tour of the Freedom Trail in Boston or visit the Bunker Hill Monument. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the historic homes in Asheville or take a walking tour of Knoxville. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the historic buildings in Santa Fe or take a walking tour of Denver.
Historical Sites and Biking Routes
If you’re looking for some historical sites and scenic biking routes, there are plenty of destinations to explore during the fall season. In New England, visit the historic sites in Concord or take a scenic bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. In the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the historic sites in Chattanooga or take a scenic bike ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit the historic sites in Santa Fe or take a scenic bike ride along the Rio Grande Trail.
Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for some relaxation or adventure during your fall foliage trip, there are plenty of options. In New England, visit a wellness retreat in Vermont or try your hand at maple sugaring. In the Great Smoky Mountains, go on a guided fishing trip or try your hand at rock climbing. And in the Rocky Mountains, visit a hot springs resort or go on a guided snowshoeing adventure.