There's something about autumn that just begs for a change of scenery. The crisp air and vibrant colors create the perfect backdrop for an adventure. For domestic travelers looking for that perfect fall vacation spot, we’ve done the work for you. We curated a list of the top three fall travel destinations that you should hit before the season ends. These spots offer unique experiences for a truly memorable escape.
There’s a certain magic to traveling in the fall. The intense summer heat gives way to a gentle warmth, vibrant colors begin to paint the landscape, and a calmer energy settles over even the most popular destinations. It’s a fantastic time to explore, whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family trip, or a solo adventure to recharge. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment for a getaway, the autumn months present a unique window of opportunity. The combination of pleasant weather, fewer people, and stunning natural beauty makes it an ideal season for creating unforgettable travel memories without the stress of the peak season.
Travel experts often call fall the "shoulder season," and for good reason. It’s that sweet spot between the summer rush and the holiday crowds, making it a prime time for travel. With kids back in school, top destinations become much more accessible. As Detail Oriented Traveler puts it, "Fall is a great time to travel in the U.S. because the weather is cooler, the leaves change color, and there are often fewer crowds since kids are back in school." This shift means you can enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience, whether you're visiting a bustling city or a quiet coastal town, getting all the benefits of a prime location with a fraction of the people.
One of the greatest draws of autumn travel is the weather. The air turns crisp and the temperatures become comfortably cool, creating the perfect conditions for getting outside. Samantha Brown's Places to Love highlights that "Crisp air and cooler temperatures make spending time outdoors enjoyable." Imagine hiking through forests ablaze with color, strolling through vineyards during harvest, or simply enjoying a city park without breaking a sweat. This mild climate allows you to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings and take on adventures that might feel too strenuous in the summer heat.
For many families, the fall school break is the perfect opportunity for a short, refreshing vacation. This brief holiday, often a long weekend, is a great way to reconnect after the busy back-to-school season. The Family Voyage notes that this break "gives families a chance to relax after the start of the school year." When you only have a few days, you want to maximize your time enjoying the destination, not stuck in transit. This is where thoughtful travel planning makes a difference. Opting for a private charter can turn a four-day weekend into a truly restorative getaway by eliminating airport hassles and getting you to your destination efficiently.
New England is famed for its cute coastal towns and beautiful fall foliage. Portland, Maine delivers on that reputation—and offers much more. That’s why it’s the perfect fall travel destination for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the changing of the leaves and the crisp autumn air.
You can experience historical New England when you walk down the Old Port waterfront, where old warehouses that have since been converted into trendy bars, restaurants, and shops are set beside working fishing wharves. The nearby residential district boasts stunning Victorian architecture, well-preserved by the town’s residents throughout the generations.
This beach town has more than sand and sea to offer. In Portland, you have the opportunity to experience a variety of stunning natural views. The Western Promenade, a local park seated atop a bluff, offers an incredible scenic experience with views of the river and the mountains. And if New England nature views aren’t enough to win you over, perhaps you’ll be swayed by the town’s robust brewery scene. Did you know that Portland has the most breweries per capita of any town in the US?
Fall is the perfect season to explore this underrated travel destination with beautiful nature views, historic architecture, trendy food and drink, and that classic New England charm.
If Portland has you dreaming of a broader New England tour, you’re in luck. The entire region is dotted with iconic destinations that come alive in the autumn. Getting to these classic spots is simple and comfortable when you charter a private flight, allowing you to hop between states with ease and make the most of the short but spectacular season. This flexibility means you can experience the best of the region without wasting precious time on the road, turning a weekend trip into a comprehensive fall adventure.
For a truly breathtaking scene, head to Acadia National Park. Here, the fiery fall foliage meets the rugged coastline of the Atlantic, creating a stunning contrast you won’t find anywhere else. I recommend an early morning trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain—the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard—to watch the sunrise paint the landscape. Afterward, you can explore the iconic Bass Harbor Lighthouse or relax at the Jordan Pond House with their famous popovers and tea. It’s an experience that perfectly blends dramatic nature with classic New England charm, as highlighted by travel experts like Samantha Brown.
Often called the quintessential fall town, Stowe, Vermont, lives up to its reputation. It has that perfect small-town feel, with cozy shops, the scent of warm apple cider donuts in the air, and mountainsides blanketed in brilliant orange. You can spend a perfect afternoon just strolling through the village, but for a bit more adventure, try a tasting at Stowe Cider or take the gondola up Mt. Mansfield for panoramic views of the foliage. And, of course, no trip to this area is complete without a tour of the nearby Ben & Jerry’s factory for a sweet treat.
If you’re chasing the most vibrant fall colors, New Hampshire’s White Mountains are the place to be. The foliage here is legendary, with intense reds, oranges, and yellows covering every mountain and lining every road. A drive along the Kancamagus Highway is a must—it’s a 34.5-mile scenic byway that cuts through the heart of the mountains and offers one of the world's best foliage-viewing experiences. For an unforgettable photo opportunity, many travelers recommend the short hike to Artist’s Bluff in Franconia Notch, which provides a stunning overlook of Echo Lake surrounded by autumn color.
The Berkshires offer a more pastoral, rolling-hills version of fall beauty. This region in western Massachusetts is known for its charming small towns and miles of colorful forests, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway. For the active traveler, there are plenty of opportunities to hike Mount Greylock (the state's highest point), go canoeing on a quiet lake, or even try zip-lining through the canopy. The area is also a hub for culture and incredible farm-to-table dining, so you can pair your outdoor adventures with some of the best food and art in New England.
For a fall trip with a spooky twist, you can’t beat Salem, Massachusetts, especially in October. The city fully embraces its famous witch trial history, creating a festive and fun atmosphere that’s completely unique. Beyond the historical sites, you can enjoy ghost tours, go apple picking at nearby orchards, and see some truly impressive pumpkin carvings. It’s the perfect destination if you love Halloween and want to experience a place that blends fascinating history with all the best seasonal activities. It’s a one-of-a-kind fall experience that draws visitors looking for something a little different.
Late fall is the ideal time to visit the often overlooked skiing destination of Flagstaff, Arizona. Don’t let its Southwestern location throw you off; while some of the area surrounding Flagstaff is desert, it’s also home to ponderosa pine forests and major mountain ranges.
Ski trails open up here in November, giving visitors the opportunity to hit the slopes for a few weeks before the onset of the ski season rush. Flagstaff’s natural beauty offers more than just skiing. Flagstaff is also home to national monuments such as Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater Volcano, and Wupatki, a Native American archaeological site.
When you visit during the fall, you can balance your ski excursions with trail hikes, zip-lining adventures, and stargazing. The city enforces stargazing-friendly lighting restrictions that helped it earn its status as the first International Dark Sky City and make it an ideal home for the Lowell Observatory.
Flagstaff offers the perfect blend of nature and culture, which is how it earned its spot as one of our top fall travel destinations.
While Flagstaff offers a fantastic mix of adventure and relaxation, the American West is full of incredible fall destinations that trade traditional foliage for their own unique brand of autumn beauty. If you're looking for something a little different, consider one of these spots. Each offers a distinct experience, from desert landscapes to golden mountain peaks, and all are easily accessible when you have the flexibility to fly into smaller, more convenient airports.
For a truly unique autumn color palette, look no further than Sedona. Here, the fall "foliage" is the fiery red rock canyons set against a brilliant blue sky. The intense summer heat gives way to cooler, more pleasant temperatures, creating the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. You can spend your days hiking the numerous trails, feeling the energy of the famed vortexes, or simply enjoying the serene desert landscape. It’s a different kind of fall escape, one that swaps crisp air for the warm, restorative sun of the Southwest.
Colorado is a dream for mountain lovers, and its towns come alive in the fall. Tucked away in a box canyon, the former mining town of Telluride is spectacular when its many aspen groves turn a vibrant gold, making the entire landscape shimmer. Further north, Estes Park serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, which features over 300 miles of trails. A fall visit lets you experience the dramatic mountain scenery surrounded by brilliant yellow foliage before the winter snows arrive.
A trip to California's wine country in the fall is an experience for all the senses. This is the heart of harvest season, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, from grape picking to pressing. Beyond the bustle of the harvest, the vineyards themselves transform into a stunning tapestry of gold, crimson, and orange, creating a view that rivals any New England forest. It’s the perfect time to enjoy world-class wine and cuisine while surrounded by the unique beauty of "fall foliage on the vines."
For a truly memorable road trip, head to the Black Hills of South Dakota. This region is renowned for its stunning golden colors in autumn. The best way to see the landscape is by car, so you can take your time and soak in the views. Plan a drive along the Black Hills Parkway, the Spearfish Canyon State & National Scenic Byway, and the iconic Needles Highway for some of the most breathtaking foliage vistas in the country. A private charter to the area makes this remote and ruggedly beautiful destination feel surprisingly close and accessible.
Charleston is a city best enjoyed during the fall, once the stickiness and humidity of the summer months have faded and before the gray of winter sets in. This coastal southern haven is home to a variety of fairs and festivals during this time of year, including the Moja Arts Festival, the Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch, the local Harvest Festival, and many other events.
Charleston embraces tourism and has a substantial number of offerings geared toward fall travelers such as yourself. See the changing leaves from a new view with a boat ride harbor tour, soak up the city’s history with a carriage tour, and experience local cuisine through food tours that expose you to restaurants catering to every niche, from the historical to the undiscovered.
As a larger city than the other destinations on this list, this top travel destination offers a higher level of luxury with its opulent hotels, various local spas, and fine dining hotspots. For the traveler looking for comfort and luxury, Charleston is the ideal fall travel destination.
Asheville is a gem nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its breathtaking fall colors and a vibrant arts scene that draws creatives from all over. The city is a perfect starting point for a drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, where every turn reveals another stunning mountain vista. Beyond the views, outdoor lovers will find endless trails for hiking and exploring the crisp autumn air. Asheville also boasts a celebrated craft brewery and culinary scene, making it an ideal spot for anyone who appreciates local flavor and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a destination that perfectly balances natural beauty with cultural richness.
For a truly unique fall trip, consider Helen, Georgia. This charming town is a re-creation of a Bavarian alpine village, an unexpected find in the mountains of the South. The fall season is highlighted by its famous Oktoberfest celebrations, complete with traditional beer, food, and music, offering a festive and lively atmosphere. The cooler weather is perfect for exploring the surrounding area, with plenty of opportunities for hiking through beautiful foliage along the Chattahoochee River. Helen’s quaint shops and cozy restaurants add to its storybook appeal, providing a delightful escape that blends Southern hospitality with European charm.
Beyond the well-trodden paths, the U.S. holds several hidden gems that truly come alive in the autumn. These destinations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and seasonal activities, making them perfect for a memorable fall escape. Getting to these more secluded spots is part of the adventure, and a private charter can turn a multi-leg journey into a seamless, direct flight, giving you more time to explore on the ground. From the vineyards of New York to the shores of Lake Michigan, these locations promise an unforgettable autumn experience away from the biggest crowds.
If your ideal fall trip involves stunning foliage and world-class wine, look no further than the Finger Lakes region of New York. With over 100 wineries dotting the landscape, you can spend your days tasting exceptional vintages while surrounded by a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The area is rich with charming small towns and unique sights, like the dramatic Genesee River Valley in Letchworth State Park. For a truly special experience, explore the wine trails around the lakes, making sure to visit renowned spots like Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery to see the vibrant colors from a new perspective.
Tucked away on a peninsula in Lake Michigan, Door County is a quintessential Midwestern escape that shines in the fall. This "hidden gem" offers 300 miles of beautiful shoreline, dotted with picturesque lighthouses and thriving apple orchards. The crisp autumn air is perfect for taking a scenic boat tour, hiking through Peninsula State Park, or simply driving the winding coastal roads. The local culture is warm and inviting, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh apple cider, browse art galleries, and savor a traditional fish boil. It’s a peaceful retreat that feels a world away from the hustle of daily life.
The Pacific Northwest offers a dramatic and moody autumn backdrop, perfect for those who love breathtaking landscapes and cozy city vibes. In Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is a must-see, where the cliffs along the river erupt in spectacular fall colors. Nearby, Portland offers a vibrant city experience with a spooky twist, including ghost tours and other Halloween festivities. The region is also celebrated for its incredible wine country, providing a perfect pairing for the scenic drives. It’s an ideal destination for a multi-stop trip, combining outdoor adventure with urban exploration.
Traveling with family requires a destination that has something for everyone, and the fall season opens up some fantastic opportunities for all ages. These spots offer a mix of entertainment, education, and seasonal fun without the peak-season crowds or scorching summer heat. Planning a family trip can be complex, but flying privately simplifies the logistics, allowing you to bypass long security lines and create a travel schedule that works for your family’s rhythm. From theme parks to historical sites, these destinations make for a perfect fall break.
While known for its sunny disposition, San Diego is an especially fantastic destination for families in the fall. October is "Kids Free San Diego" month, a city-wide promotion that makes it incredibly budget-friendly. With a paying adult, kids get free admission to over 50 attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo, the Safari Park, and the USS Midway Museum. The weather is typically perfect—warm and sunny without the intense summer heat—making it ideal for beach days and exploring the city’s many outdoor offerings. It’s a great way to experience a premier city with exceptional value.
For families who love a bit of magic and thrill, Orlando is a classic choice that’s even better in the fall. The theme parks are still buzzing with energy but are generally less crowded than during the summer or winter holidays. This is also when the parks roll out their special Halloween events, with Disney’s Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights offering fun for different age groups. The milder weather makes walking around the parks much more comfortable, allowing your family to enjoy every ride, show, and character meet-and-greet to the fullest.
Our nation’s capital is an excellent educational and entertaining destination for a family fall trip. The autumn weather is pleasant and cool, perfect for walking the National Mall and exploring the monuments without the oppressive humidity of summer or the chill of winter. The crowds are also thinner than in the popular spring season, giving you more space to appreciate the sights. Best of all, most of the Smithsonian museums and historic sites are completely free, offering days of engaging activities for curious minds of all ages. It’s a trip that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.
Sometimes, the best way to experience autumn is to see how the rest of the world celebrates the season—or to escape to a place where spring is just beginning. International travel opens up a world of unique cultural experiences, from serene temples in Japan to blooming jacaranda trees in Argentina. An international private flight ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to explore, with direct routes and personalized service that cater to your itinerary. These destinations offer a fresh perspective and an unforgettable adventure.
There are few places on earth where autumn is as breathtaking as Kyoto. In the fall, the city’s ancient temples, serene gardens, and traditional wooden houses are framed by fiery red and gold maple leaves, creating a picture-perfect scene at every turn. The atmosphere is tranquil and deeply spiritual, offering a peaceful escape where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Strolling through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) during this season is a truly unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Japanese beauty.
If you’d rather trade falling leaves for blooming flowers, head south to Buenos Aires. While the Northern Hemisphere cools down for fall, Argentina is welcoming spring. In November, the city’s streets are famously lined with jacaranda trees, which burst into a stunning display of purple-blue flowers. The pleasant weather is perfect for exploring the city’s distinct neighborhoods, from the colorful streets of La Boca to the chic boutiques of Palermo. You can enjoy outdoor cafes, tango in the plazas, and experience the vibrant, passionate culture of this incredible South American capital.
With its rugged highlands, historic castles, and cozy pubs, Scotland feels like it was made for autumn. The weather in late September and October can be surprisingly mild and sunny, and the summer crowds have dissipated, leaving you to explore at your own pace. The fall colors across the Highlands are spectacular, creating a dramatic backdrop for scenic drives and hikes. You can easily tour iconic cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow or venture out to St. Andrews and Inverness. It’s the perfect time to soak in the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
For a truly otherworldly fall adventure, consider a trip to Iceland. October is one of the best months to witness the magic of the Northern Lights, as the nights are long and dark enough for viewing, but the harsh winter storms have yet to arrive. Beyond the aurora borealis, you can explore Iceland’s "Golden Circle," home to powerful waterfalls, erupting geysers, and tectonic plates you can walk between. The landscape is starkly beautiful, with glaciers, black sand beaches, and volcanoes creating a scene that feels like another planet. It’s an adventurer’s dream destination.
If a warm-weather getaway is what you’re after, Panama is an excellent choice for a fall trip. Located south of the hurricane belt, it offers a safe bet for sunny skies and tropical weather. This destination provides a fascinating mix of experiences, from the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to the historic, cobblestoned streets of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also explore lush rainforests teeming with wildlife or relax on pristine beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Panama is a dynamic and diverse country that offers history, culture, and nature all in one place.
The team at Hangar 7 is here to work with you on a personalized charter flight experience curated to your schedule preferences, preferred amenities, and other needs. Our dedicated agents are standing by to offer guidance and help you arrange the perfect trip. Get in touch today!
Traveling by private charter means you can explore unique destinations entirely on your own schedule. Imagine touching down in Portland, Maine, a quintessential fall getaway known for its stunning foliage and charming coastal atmosphere. Instead of adhering to a commercial airline's timeline, you can create an itinerary that fits your pace. You could spend your morning exploring the historical Old Port waterfront, where trendy restaurants sit alongside working fishing wharves, and still have the afternoon free for a scenic drive. This level of control is what makes a private charter so appealing; your travel plans are built around your preferences, not the other way around.
Sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan. That’s where the excitement of empty leg flights comes in, offering a fantastic opportunity for a spontaneous trip. You might find a flight to a hidden gem like Flagstaff, Arizona, which becomes a true winter wonderland in late fall, perfect for balancing outdoor adventures like skiing with cultural experiences like stargazing. Or, you could snag a last-minute trip to Charleston, South Carolina, just in time to experience its vibrant fall festivals and rich historical tours. These one-way flights make impromptu getaways both accessible and incredibly memorable.
With so many great options, how do I choose the best fall destination for my trip? I recommend thinking about the kind of experience you're looking for. If you want that classic, cozy autumn vibe with brilliant foliage and charming towns, New England is your best bet. For something more adventurous with unique landscapes, consider the golden aspens in Colorado or the stark beauty of the Arizona desert. And if you're seeking a more refined, luxurious getaway with incredible food and culture, a city like Charleston offers the perfect balance.
Can I visit more than one of these cities on a single trip? Absolutely, and that’s one of the best parts of creating your own travel experience. A private charter makes it incredibly simple to design a multi-stop itinerary. For example, you could easily tour several New England gems, like Portland and Stowe, in one long weekend without losing precious time to long drives or connecting commercial flights. You set the schedule, and we handle the logistics to get you from one place to the next seamlessly.
What's the real advantage of flying privately for a short fall getaway? For a quick trip, like a long weekend, time is your most valuable asset. Flying privately allows you to skip the airport hassles—the long lines, the crowded terminals, the rigid schedules—and get directly to your destination. This means you can maximize every moment of your vacation. Instead of spending half a day in transit, you can be checked into your hotel and enjoying the fall scenery just a short while after leaving home.
You mentioned empty leg flights. How do those work for a spontaneous trip? Empty leg flights are a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of private travel, often at a significant value. They become available when a jet is scheduled to fly one-way to pick up other passengers or return to its home base. If your travel plans are flexible, you can book these one-way trips for a spontaneous adventure. It’s the perfect option if you see a flight to a destination like Flagstaff or Charleston and decide to seize the opportunity for a last-minute getaway.
What if the destination I have in mind isn't on this list? This list is just a starting point to offer some inspiration for the season. Your travel possibilities are not limited to these suggestions at all. Whether you have a favorite spot you return to every year or want to explore somewhere completely new, our team can arrange a charter to virtually any destination you desire, both here in the U.S. and internationally. We specialize in creating personalized travel plans built entirely around you.