I know it might seem like fall has just started, but for those who want to plan the perfect seasonal getaway, the clock is ticking.
It’s a process that requires plenty of time, flexibility, and patience, and most importantly, it’s a process that starts by answering “Where?”.
And that’s exactly the part we’re tackling today.
If you’re here, you’ve probably considered all the classic hotspots like New York, Vegas, or Miami and realized you’re looking for something cozier and more low-key – luckily for you, USA Today just came out with a list of some of the best, most underrated hubs you can visit this fall right here in the U.S.
The list, crafted through a mix of professional input and traveler votes, featured some truly unexpected names, so if you’re in an adventurous mood this fall, you’ll want to stick around until the end.
5. Estes Park, Colorado
This first one’s one of those hidden gems that shine extra bright in the fall.
With its spectacular scenery (and accompanying hiking trails) and authentic small-town charm, Estes Park promises the ultimate cool-weathered retreat away from all the crowds and the chaos.
And while this Colorado hub might be small and often overlooked, there’s still plenty to see and do here, starting, of course, with an obligatory aerial tram ride!
The rest of your time here will be spent taking in the once-in-a-lifetime-type views of Trail Ridge Road, attending charming local events like the Pumpkins & Pilsners Festival (October 5th), and taking tours of the iconic Stanley Hotel, which, fun fact, is the very inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining.
4. Lafayette, Louisiana
Another amazing place to get away from the insatiable tourist crowds this fall is a criminally underrated southern Louisiana gem.
But the chaos-free streets and jaw-dropping views of the Atchafalaya Basin are far from the only things you’ll get to appreciate in Lafayette.
Here, the balmy 70°F (21°C) degree weather is to die for, the indulgent Cajun cuisine is even better, and festival lovers will get to live out their autumnal dreams with everything from the Festivals Acadiens et Créoles to the Boudin Cook-Off taking place this time of year.
3. Allegany County, Maryland
While seemingly unassuming, Maryland is a state that draws in a whopping 43 million travelers a year, and chances are that a good chunk of them will be heading to Allegany County this season.
Outdoor lovers will have the time of their lives here.
You can hike along the Great Allegheny Passage, take a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, or even bike through the Green Ridge State Forest – either way, you’re guaranteed jaw-dropping views.
When it’s time to cool down, you can always shift your focus towards the region’s more cultural and historical side, which is just as remarkable.
Charming historic hubs like Cumberland and Frostburg, while small, are still a delight to experience all year long.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
We’re shaking things up a bit, this time with an island.
But not just any island – Mackinac, which, with its otherworldly nature, horse-drawn carriages, and Victorian architecture is widely considered one of Michigan’s best tourist hotspots, and a place everyone should get to experience at least once in a lifetime.
Sure, everyone rushes here in the summer, but I’d argue fall is an even better time to visit the car-free island that looks like it has jumped right out of a novel.
Take advantage of the quiet, cozy streets and spend your days exploring the quaint shops that line Main Street and taking in the views of the Straits of Mackinac.
I guarantee it’ll be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The proud No.1 title holder is none other than Gatlinburg, a place that many tend to overlook as just a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but is actually an incredible thing to experience in and of itself.
Of course, you’ll still get all of that iconic fall-y mountain scenery, especially if you take a drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or the Newfound Gap Road (finally, some good news for all of you hike haters out there!), but what sets the city apart from the rest of the region is its darling downtown area where you can relax, drink great-quality coffee, and browse handmade crafts, local artwork, and traditional Appalachian products.
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