The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.
There are many places in the United States that are stunning during Autumn, but where are the best places to see fall foliage in the U.S.?
Truth be told, anyone can experience the fall months – from those living in Hawaii to those living in Nova Scotia.
But, you cannot just sip on a pumpkin spice latte and call it perfection. The perfect Fall includes so many things: sweaters, pumpkins, bonfires, hot cocoa, pumpkin spice everything, freshly picked apples, and colorful fall foliage.
The last one is a must — which is why we’ve created a guide to the best places to see fall foliage in the U.S.
Finding the Best Places to See Fall Foliage
Reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and browns decorate trees as far as the eye can see. Together, these trees give you a divine portrait of fall.
They may look like dead barren trees when winter strikes, but the process of shedding leaves now can take your breath away.
Depending on where you live, you may find yourself with a little bit – or a lot – of the season.
But, sipping an ice-cold pumpkin spice beer while sitting under a palm tree on the beach just doesn’t work.
If this is how you find yourself falling into the fall season, then why not book yourself a charter and see some magnificent scenery?
Check out these best places to see fall foliage in the U.S.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston and its surrounding areas provide you great access to some beautiful fall foliage. And, you can experience the display while enjoying all the city has to offer – or by spending some quiet time on the outskirts.
Actually, fall foliage is quite a big deal in Boston.
In fact, local weather experts kick off the first month of the new year by carefully pinpointing when that fall foliage will return. Imagine that?
It is understandable though. When something provides you with such a warm, magical feel – of course you’ll want to know when it will be back.
The best part? To make sure you see all the best views, Boston puts together Fall Foliage Tours throughout the city. And don’t miss these must-see spots:
- Bird Park, Walpole
- Peaked Mountain, Monson
- Rock House, West Brookfield
- Bear Swamp, Ashfield
2. Bozeman, Montana
Visiting Bozeman may not be your first thought when deciding where to check out the fall foliage in the U.S.
However, it would be a great one. In and around this city, fall brings pleasing views. To help out perfection seekers, the Bozeman Convention and Visitor’s Bureau has put together 3 drives you won’t want to miss.
These include:
- Highway 86 to take in the views of Bridger Canyon and Bridger Mountain Range
- Springer Road on the west side of the Bridger Mountain Range
- The Gallatin Canyon via Highway 191. This is a river valley with amazing views.
3. Yellowstone National Park
About a two-hour drive from Bozeman is Yellowstone National Park. This park is usually packed with campers and hikers during the summer months.
During the fall, it is quieter and more visited by those looking to get carried away by a sea of beautiful colors, which is why it makes our list of the best places to see fall foliage.
Be warned – elk start their mating season during the fall months, so you will likely catch quite a few roaming around. The male elk are seeking attention from females and they will do what they must get noticed. Therefore, you may get some elk entertainment with your wonderful views.
4. Nashville, Tennessee
Just as other mountain ranges want to give you fall colors to enjoy, so do the Great Smokey Mountains.
In and around Nashville, the mountainous terrain will provide you with a flow of fall color.
Because Nashville falls a little more south, the fall foliage comes a bit later. So, if you find yourself without the ability to head out of town for a bit, then this could be a good option for you.
Check these local spots:
- Radnor Lake State Park
- The Warner Park
- Natchez Trace Parkway
- Cheekwood
Local and state tourism sites have put together lists of tours, best viewing spots, and details on state parks that you won’t want to miss.
5. Portland, Oregon
Portland loves to celebrate the harvest, which is why it’s one of the best places across the U.S to check out fall foliage.
Here you will find great views of fall foliage in the city – and in the surrounding hills. You will also find Oktoberfest, a corn maze, pumpkin patches and more.
Not to mention, there are designated areas that are sworn to provide you with an up-front and perfect view of all that fall has to offer.
Here are some fall foliage hot spots:
- Hoyt Arboretum
- Sauvie Island
- Cathedral Park
- South Park Blocks
If fall foliage with a warm invitation seems like a good idea, then perhaps Portland may be your destination spot this season.
6. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen may be well-known for its ski resorts and snow-filled fun, but that doesn’t mean it can’t provide you with an awesome space for fall foliage views.
In fact, it may just be one of the best places for leaf viewing.
Aspen offers wonderful views all around the slopes. You can see these views from anywhere, but there are a few places that you just won’t want to miss.
Here are the best photo ops for fall foliage in Aspen:
- Smuggler Mountain
- Crater Lake
- Maroon Bells Scenic Area
- Aspen Mountain
- Cathedral Lake
- Hunter Creek
7. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago – the country’s Windy City. This city has a lot more to offer than just wind. And, this is especially true when it comes to getting your fix of fall foliage.
The city, while bustling and busy, is full of tree-lined streets and parks. In fact, it almost very easily provides you with the best of both worlds – you won’t have to leave the city to take in the best views.
If Chicago is your chosen fall destination, then don’t miss these particular sights:
- Chicago Botanic Garden
- Lincoln Park
- Winnemac Park
- Garfield Park Conservatory
- Jackson Park
- Lurie Garden
Or, just walk the city streets and enjoy the scenery.
Conclusion
There you have it: the best places to see fall foliage in the U.S.
Where will you go to create your perfect fall moment?
In some ways, having to travel to these destinations gives you an advantage – you get to take in the beauty from the sky. You’ll want to hold your breath for this view.
Happy travels!
