8 Ways to See the Best Fall Foliage this Year

There are few things that we eagerly anticipate all year quite like those few magical weeks when fall foliage is at its absolute peak. To us, autumn’s arrival isn’t when you’re sipping on a piping hot pumpkin spice latte; it’s when you can finally breathe in the crisp scents of fallen leaves and gaze out over brilliant bursts of reds and oranges that are soon to fill the landscape.

Depending on your location, the foliage will hit its peak in the U.S. anywhere from mid-September to early November, and if you’re smart about your travel, you can see the leaves turning more than once. Here are eight of our favorite ways to experience the splendor of fall, with or without a pumpkin spice latte in hand.

1. Tyler Place Family Resort

The intimate and all-inclusive resort in northern Vermont is ideal to catch the leaves turning from Late September to Early October. It’s like a classic summer camp but designed for the whole family. Tyler Place offers activities from tennis, golf, sailing and other watersports, to engaging art and culinary classes. Enjoy the impossibly fresh farm to table dining and be sure to take advantage of the nights out for parents!

Tyler Place Family Resort

2. Blount Small Ship Adventures

We love the personal touch of smaller cruises and Blount is always a favorite. For an unforgettable way to view the changing leaves we recommend checking out their 14 Day Locks Legends, and Canals Cruise. Departing from NYC, you’ll cruise up the Erie Canal, through the Catskills, Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and finish your journey in Montreal. This particular cruise only runs from late September to late October when foliage is at its peak, but don’t worry if it’s too late to make it this year, they’re already booking for 2018.

3. Four Seasons at Jackson Hole

This lavish resort is tucked away in Wyoming’s Rockies near the always impressive Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Parks. The area might be best known for its skiing, but that doesn’t mean that autumn is any less stunning here. They offer experiences like a wildlife safari, fly fishing, and even luxury-style family stargazing in Grand Tetons National Park. Come in early October to see the foliage at its most brilliant.

Grand Tetons National Park near Four Seasons Jackson Hole

4. Nemacolin Resort and Spa

Though known for their calming wellness-focused atmosphere and their amazing spa, Nemacolin has numerous adventures for the whole family. From animal-oriented excursions to learning to shoot clays, you’ll have more than enough ways to spend your time on this sprawling 2,000 acre Pennsylvania resort. The leaves will be at their best around mid-October, which will be perfect for viewing when out hiking or even while testing your balance on their high ropes course.

The spa at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

5. Landoll’s Mohican Castle

A little closer to home in Loudinville, OH, you can take in the best of autumn in this secluded castle set among rolling hills and state parks. The middle of October will be the perfect time to catch the turning leaves while out canoeing before you head back to the castle for murder mystery nights and ghost hunts. When not out exploring nature, visit their spa, take a tour of the local wineries, or shop for handmade goods in the nearby Amish country.

Landoll’s Mohican Castle

6. The Greenbrier

Dubbed “America’s Resort”, a stay at The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia is an iconic way to spend your autumn vacation. Take in peak foliage mid-October while on their bike trails, horseback rides, zip lining canopy tours, aerial adventure courses, or just in a relaxing carriage ride. From classic suites, to personal cottages, to spacious estate homes, you’ll find the perfect space to spend the season, no matter your group’s size.

The Greenbrier

7. Hallmark Resort and Spa at Cannon Beach

Late October is the time to visit this pet and family-friendly resort on Oregon’s shores if you want to experience autumn at its peak in the Pacific Northwest. Stay in an oceanfront cabin and enjoy a spectacular view of the awe-inspiring monolith Haystock Rock and spend your days taking in the serene surf and strolling the streets of charming Cannon Beach.

Overlooking Haystack Rock at Hallmark Resort

8. Dahlonega Spa Resort

This resort nestled in Georgia’s picturesque Blueridge Mountains is an ideal place to take in the changing hues down south. In addition to the scenic mountain views, you can spend your days enjoying tasting tours at any one of the many wineries and vineyards, hiking along waterfall-filled trails, or unwinding with the resort’s yoga or meditation retreats. The best time to experience autumn here is late October, which luckily lines up perfectly with the annual Gold Rush Festival, held the third weekend each October.

Dahlonega Spa Resort