Forget the household names! Fall is the season where hidden gems shine brightest, at least according to Alaska Airlines.
The popular carrier has blown the doors off with their latest report, revealing the top 3. U.S. small towns to explore this fall.
Many of us seek out iconic city adventures in such places as Chicago, New York, or San Francisco, but scattered around the country are delightful towns often overshadowed by the grandeur of America’s finest metropolises.
But in the wise words of Michael Scott, “Well, well, well, how the turntables”…
Alaska has seen a strong spike in bookings for places without the crowds and towering skyscrapers in favor of simple down-home fall splendor.
These are the top 3 U.S. hidden gems surging in popularity this fall:
Santa Rosa: Gateway To Wine Country & So Much More
Despite popular belief, Napa is not the only major wine town in California. In fact, it’s not even the biggest in the state.
Lodi may take the cake on that one, but it’s Santa Rosa that has made a name for itself in the wine world and also serves as a gateway into Napa, among other delightful towns nearby.
But let’s stick with Santa Rosa proper, an often overlooked city that’s suddenly been thrown into the spotlight this fall, especially with Alaska’s new flights from Vegas.
So, why visit Santa Rosa other than to go winery-hopping?
The city of 177,000 people is surrounded by beautiful landscapes you can’t help but want to explore.
Take Sonoma Coast State Park ($8 admission) for sample size, where epic coastal views reign supreme over all the ‘leaf peepers’ snapping photos like they’ve never seen a tree before.
Kidding, of course. But, truth be told, this is one of few State Parks this time of year where you’ll forget all about the colors of leaves in place of colors of wines and stunning aqua-blue views.
And don’t sleep on Santa Rosa’s food scene either; it goes way beyond wine!
Check out nearby Michelin-starred French Laundry – so good that California’s Governor Newsom couldn’t resist the urge against breaking his own 2020 lockdown mandates by attending a dinner party here.
If that’s not a selling point, then what is?
Travel Tip: Check out Santa Rosa’s top hidden gem filled with history and scenic fall photo-ops: Jack London State Historic Park.
Bellingham: Springboard To Vancouver Or Relaxing Hideaway?
Which do you prefer: Picturesque lakes, numerous islands, and tranquil waterfalls or a buzzing cultural city, majestic mountains, and world-class cuisine?
Well, good news is you’re in the right place for both…sorta.
Just as Alaska Airlines described, Bellingham is a “hidden gem” nestled on the coast between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada.
Since Bellingham has its own airport, it makes for a relaxing fall escape on its own with astounding nature at your fingertips… or you can scooch across the border for a taste of the city life.
Any way you slice it, you’re in a great spot. You’ll find gorgeous coastal and inland views at such places like San Juan Island and Lake Padden, whichever suits your vibe, and ample ferry rides are provided to reach the various islands off Bellingham’s shores.
Not to mention a charming downtown filled with cozy cafes, scenic parks, and a booming arts scene.
Travel tip: Vancouver is roughly an hour’s drive by car or bus from Bellingham. Make sure to bring your passport and note that Global Entry is not accepted in Canada’s Nexus lanes.
Missoula: This Ain’t Yellowstone
Montana has been hyped up ever since the mega-hit TV show Yellowstone was released. But Missoula doesn’t convey the rootin’ tootin’ cowboy shootin’ image you may have emblazoned in your mind.
Missoula is where college town meets mountainous paradise – a place to bar-hop in the lively University District or relax along the Clark Fork River and dozens of scenic hiking trails.
For the more adventurous, there’s whitewater rafting to tap into your adrenaline rush or come late November, you can hit the slopes just 20 minutes from downtown.
Travel Tip: You may be surprised by Missoula’s multiple luxurious resorts set amidst vineyards, casinos, and vast ranches. Check them out here.
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