As the air turns crisp and leaves burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, it’s the perfect time to escape to a charming small town.
We’ve selected 11 destinations that capture the best of the season.
From the historic villages of New England to mountain getaways and coastal retreats, these towns provide a refreshing break from the daily grind.
Wander down inviting streets, savor regional specialties, and explore vibrant local events. This list will guide you to the best places for a relaxing fall weekend surrounded by the season's beauty.
1. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock, Vermont, is a top choice for a fall getaway with its stunning foliage, charming covered bridges, and classic New England atmosphere.
Known for its colonial architecture and inviting town green, this small town is perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking in the autumn colors.
Things To Do
Stroll through the village and visit locally-owned shops like Gillingham’s, a general store operating since 1886, offering Vermont-made products and unique gifts.
Billings Farm & Museum, a working farm and outdoor museum, is a must-see. You can meet farm animals, explore historic barns, and even try pumpkin bowling under the bright fall leaves—a fun seasonal activity that makes Woodstock special.
For a taste of local flavors, head to Sugarbush Farm for samples of Vermont cheese and maple syrup. The farm’s trails also offer beautiful, serene walks through the fall foliage.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, head to Mount Tom’s South Peak. The panoramic views of Woodstock and the rolling hills dressed in autumn colors are truly breathtaking and capture the essence of a fall getaway.
Woodstock comes alive in October with events like the Woodstock Apples and Crafts Fair and Food Truck Festival, where you can enjoy local crafts, delicious bites, and vibrant community spirit.
Where To Stay
Staying at The Village Inn of Woodstock places you in the center of all the action, making it easy to enjoy the town’s scenic beauty and warm community feel.
With its blend of fall-themed activities and a historic backdrop, Woodstock stands out as a special destination for the season.
For more breathtaking fall views in New England, check out these must-visit foliage spots here.
2. Camden, Maine
For those looking to combine coastal beauty with mountain views, Camden, Maine, offers a stunning fall setting. The bright fall leaves set against the deep blue of Penobscot Bay provide a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Things To Do
Start your visit in Camden’s walkable town center, where you can explore local boutiques and markets or stop by Once a Tree for handmade gifts. For fresh coastal cuisine, Natalie’s Restaurant is a standout, serving local flavors in a cozy setting.
Camden Hills State Park is a top destination, especially in the fall. Trails up Mount Battie offer sweeping views of Camden Harbor and Cadillac Mountain on clear days. The colorful foliage against the blue waters makes the trails a must for a fall trip.
For a quieter hike, try the Maiden Cliff Trail, which features panoramic views over Megunticook Lake, especially vibrant when the autumn leaves are at their peak.
For a different adventure, head to the Camden Snow Bowl, the only ski resort on the East Coast where you can see the ocean from the slopes.
In the fall, it's perfect for hiking or mountain biking, while winter offers the rare chance for ocean-view skiing, blending mountain adventure with seaside scenery.
In September, the Camden International Film Festival adds a cultural touch to your visit, featuring independent films and documentaries from around the world.
Where To Stay
After a day of exploration, rest at the Camden Riverhouse Hotel and Inn, close to the harbor and shops. Camden’s mix of nature, arts, and small-town allure makes it an exceptional fall getaway.
Planning a road trip through New England? This Boston to Maine route offers a perfect mix of coastal views and fall colors.
3. Galax, Virginia
Galax, Virginia, makes the list of charming small towns for a fall weekend trip with its vibrant music scene, rich Appalachian culture, and scenic mountain setting.
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this town offers a unique blend of live music, outdoor adventure, and local heritage. It is a perfect choice for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in a beautiful natural backdrop.
Things To Do
New River Trail State Park, a 57-mile rail trail, is a top choice for hiking and biking, with paths winding along the New River and offering scenic views.
For a more secluded outing, explore the Cliffview section, where quieter paths and overlooks provide a peaceful setting away from the main trails.
The Blue Ridge Music Center, nearby, is a focal point for live music from May to October. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Appalachian music and explore exhibits that highlight the region's musical heritage.
The Matthews Living History Farm Museum hosts the Autumn Folk Festival, where you can experience the area’s culture through crafts, music, and storytelling.
After a day of exploring, Briar Patch Marketplace & Café on Main Street offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy locally inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients that reflect Galax’s creative spirit.
Where To Stay
For an overnight stay, the New River Trail Cabins provide a cozy retreat along Chestnut Creek, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure. With its rich musical heritage and natural beauty, Galax promises a distinct and memorable experience.
4. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is a charming destination perfect for a fall weekend trip, combining rich history with beautiful natural scenery.
Located where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, this small town offers a blend of Civil War history and scenic landscapes, ideal for those looking to explore both culture and nature.
Things To Do
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a highlight for its scenic trails, including Maryland Heights, which offers sweeping views of the town and rivers.
Walking through Harpers Ferry’s cobblestone streets, visitors can explore landmarks like John Brown’s Fort and St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, which played significant roles in the Civil War and the Civil Rights movement.
For a more leisurely experience, consider a stroll or bike ride along the C&O Canal Towpath to enjoy the area’s peaceful surroundings and historic charm.
Local shops add to the small-town feel, with True Treats offering old-fashioned sweets and The Vintage Lady featuring West Virginia-made crafts.
For dining, Kelley Farm Kitchen serves innovative plant-based dishes, while The Rabbit Hole offers hearty comfort food—both great options after a day of exploring.
Seasonal events like the Anniversary of John Brown’s Raid, featuring historical reenactments, and the Highland Games with traditional music, dance, and games bring Harpers Ferry's history and culture to life.
Where To Stay
Cantuta Inn is conveniently located near Harpers Ferry’s historic sites and nature trails, providing a comfortable base for exploring the town’s rich history and scenic beauty.
Harpers Ferry offers a memorable weekend getaway where the past and present seamlessly come together.
Looking for lesser-known places to enjoy fall colors? Here are hidden gem destinations perfect for a quiet escape.
5. New Hope, Pennsylvania
New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit for a fall weekend trip, combining a vibrant arts scene with rich history and riverside charm. This lively town offers tree-lined streets, local art, and scenic views that make it an inviting escape.
Things To Do
Since you are right on the Delaware River, the Delaware Canal towpath is perfect for a peaceful weekend stroll, offering shaded paths and tranquil scenery.
Nearby, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve is another great spot for nature walks among over 700 native plant species.
To explore New Hope's history, take a walking tour with the New Hope Historical Society, featuring landmarks like the 1784 Parry Mansion and the Bucks County Playhouse, a former grist mill turned theater.
Main Street offers plenty of shops, galleries, and boutiques to explore local art and handmade crafts. Seasonal festivals like the quirky Lima Bean Festival and Victorian Weekend showcase local traditions and highlight the community spirit.
For a spooky experience, join a ghost tour that explores the town’s haunted sites and shares eerie tales from its past.
For more ghostly adventures this fall, don’t miss these haunted spots in Asheville, North Carolina.
Where To Stay
The Ghost Light Inn combines stylish comfort with scenic river views and sits right in the heart of town. Its central location makes it easy to access New Hope’s key attractions, from the historic New Hope Railroad to the New Hope Arts Center.
With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, New Hope makes for a distinctive fall getaway.
6. Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Stockbridge, Massachusetts, is a perfect pick for this list due to its blend of New England charm, artistic heritage, and the stunning fall colors that envelop the town.
Located in the Berkshires, Stockbridge blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, the town becomes especially inviting in autumn, making it a great choice for a fall weekend.
Things To Do
Explore Main Street’s art galleries, local shops, and historic sites like The Mission House, which offers insights into the area’s Native American heritage.
Chesterwood, once home to Lincoln Memorial sculptor Daniel Chester French, presents rotating exhibits and scenic walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Berkshires.
For a lesser-known adventure, take the short hike up Laura's Tower Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The Mary Flynn Trail nearby is another option, providing a gentler walk along the Housatonic River.
The Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Harvest Festival in October brings together local crafts, live music, and family activities, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience the local culture.
Enjoy a meal at Once Upon a Table, a cozy bistro tucked in an alley off Main Street. Known for its farm-to-table dishes and seasonal specials, it offers an intimate setting and a true taste of the Berkshires.
Where To Stay
After a day of exploring, relax with a meal by the fire at the Red Lion Inn, a historic inn that has been a favorite since the 18th century. It's an ideal spot to enjoy Stockbridge’s charm and attractions.
7. Brevard, North Carolina
Brevard, North Carolina, stands out as a top pick for a fall weekend trip, especially for those who love outdoor adventure, local art, and community events.
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brevard is famous for its more than 200 waterfalls. It offers a stunning natural backdrop and a range of activities that make it perfect for a memorable getaway.
Things To Do
Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest offer great trails for hiking and biking, with routes near Looking Glass Falls and Triple Falls showcasing beautiful waterfalls.
For more insight into the landscape, guided tours explore the area's geology and history. Keep an eye out for Brevard’s rare white squirrels, often spotted around Brevard College or Silvermont Park.
Downtown Brevard reflects the town's creative vibe with its galleries, shops, and local eateries. Stop by Bracken Mountain Bakery for fresh pastries or enjoy live music at one of the local cafés.
Music enthusiasts can also catch a concert at the Brevard Music Center, which offers a range of performances.
Art lovers will enjoy the Art Is In the Air festival in September, showcasing local talent, while October’s Halloweenfest brings parades, costumes, and seasonal fun, appealing to all ages.
Where To Stay
The Inn at Key Falls Estate offers a cozy retreat with fireplaces and easy access to nearby trails, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
With a mix of outdoor activities and a vibrant local scene, Brevard provides a well-rounded fall getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
8. Marfa, Texas
Marfa, Texas, is a top pick for this list for its distinct blend of art, culture, and desert scenery, making it ideal for travelers looking for a different kind of fall getaway.
Known for its art scene and expansive desert views, Marfa offers an escape that contrasts with the usual fall foliage. Here, you can expect lavender skies, striking sunsets, and a landscape that shifts to warm, earthy tones as the weather cools.
Things To Do
Marfa’s modern art scene is a highlight for visitors. The Chinati Foundation features large-scale, minimalist works by contemporary artists, offering a unique experience in a desert setting.
Equally striking is the Prada Marfa installation—a high-fashion art piece set against the stark West Texas landscape.
For history with an artistic twist, visit Building 98, a former WWII officers' club now showcasing murals painted by German POWs.
To tap into the local culture, time your trip around events like the Marfa100 bike race or the Art Blocks Open House Weekend, both reflecting Marfa’s creative energy.
Add a touch of mystery to your visit at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area. At night, try to spot the flickering orbs that have puzzled and fascinated onlookers for years, adding an eerie dimension to your desert adventure.
Where To Stay
The Hotel Paisano, famous for hosting stars like James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor during the filming of Giant in the 1950s, offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort with elegant rooms that reflect the town's unique style.
Marfa combines art, history, and desert landscapes for a unique getaway. Pair it with a road trip through Texas’s national parks for a diverse and memorable adventure.
9. Franklin, Tennessee
Franklin, Tennessee, is an ideal pick for a fall weekend trip with its mix of Southern charm, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
Located just a short drive from Nashville, this small town offers a blend of historic sites, modern attractions, and lively events that draw visitors year-round.
Things To Do
Franklin’s historic Main Street is the town’s hub, featuring a mix of boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Savor traditional Southern dishes like hot chicken and shrimp & grits, or explore a variety of global flavors.
Step into the local community by visiting the Farmers Market at The Factory at Franklin. Here, you can browse fresh produce, handmade crafts, and regional specialties.
White's Mercantile, a modern-day general store, has a selection of Southern goods. For more unique finds, explore shops filled with antiques, books, and local art.
Franklin hosts vibrant events throughout the year, like Pumpkinfest, with arts and crafts, live music, and costume contests. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Family Day at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm offers free activities, music, and games.
History buffs can experience the past with guided tours at Carnton Plantation and the Lotz House Museum, where the stories of the Civil War era come to life.
Where To Stay
The Harpeth Downtown Franklin Curio Collection by Hilton provides a mix of modern comfort and historic charm, located right in the heart of the town. Franklin offers a memorable weekend with its history, dining, and local events.
If you’re in Tennessee this fall, don’t miss the haunted trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
10. Saugatuck, Michigan
Saugatuck, Michigan, is a perfect pick for a fall weekend with its blend of natural beauty, art, and outdoor activities along Lake Michigan. This lakeside town, with its tree-lined streets and nearby dunes, offers a relaxing yet engaging escape.
Things To Do
Start with a visit to Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where tall sand dunes, forested trails, and expansive lake views await. For those up for a challenge, the 302 steps to the top of Mount Baldhead offer sweeping views of the town, river, and lake.
Enjoy a relaxing time on the water with a boat ride along the Kalamazoo River or paddleboarding.
Downtown Saugatuck offers a range of galleries and shops. Good Goods features local art, while James Brandess Studios showcases locally inspired pieces. Stop by Kilwins for delicious ice cream, or visit the Butler Pantry for specialty kitchen items.
Events like the Fall Gallery Stroll, Chili Cook-Off, Blue Coast Artists Tour, and Glow in the Park bring local art, food, and culture to life, adding a festive touch to your visit.
Where To Stay
For a cozy retreat, the Starlite Resort offers modern amenities close to downtown. Whether you're hiking the dunes, enjoying local art, or participating in seasonal events, Saugatuck makes for a memorable fall escape.
11. Yellow Springs, Ohio
Yellow Springs, Ohio, is perfect for a fall weekend trip, combining a creative, artsy vibe with access to scenic trails and outdoor activities.
Close to John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge, this small town provides a mix of culture, nature, and community spirit that stands out among fall destinations.
Things To Do
Stroll through Yellow Springs' streets lined with galleries, artisan shops, and cafes that showcase the town's creative character. For a local favorite, head to Young's Jersey Dairy for fresh ice cream and activities like pumpkin picking and hayrides.
For handmade local crafts, Yellow Springs Pottery features unique ceramics created by area artists.
For nature lovers, Clifton Gorge and Glen Helen Nature Preserve offer scenic trails, waterfalls, and the unique Yellow Spring, known for its mineral deposits.
The town’s events, like the Yellow Springs Street Fair, bring local vendors, musicians, and street performers together, showcasing the lively community and its culture.
Where To Stay
Stay at the Mills Park Hotel, which provides Southern-style charm and is conveniently located near all the local attractions. With its blend of nature, art, and community, Yellow Springs offers a refreshing and unique fall escape in Ohio.
Practical Tips for Your Fall Weekend Getaway
Planning ahead can make your fall weekend getaway more enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to enhance your trip:
- Plan Around Local Harvests and Events: Check peak times for apples, pumpkins, and other local produce. Farmers' markets offer fresh food and unique goods. Chat with locals for insider tips.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in small towns. Download maps in advance to stay on track.
- Pack Layers for Changing Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to stay comfortable from morning to afternoon.
- Account for Early Sunsets: Days are shorter in the fall. Plan outdoor activities for earlier and save afternoons for indoor spots or dining.
- Keep a Thermos and Blanket Handy: Perfect for impromptu picnics or warming up after a brisk hike.
- Seek Quieter Trails and Spots: Ask locals about less crowded trails and viewpoints for a more peaceful experience.
- Bring a Daypack: Include snacks, water, and a flashlight for spontaneous hikes or strolls. A well-stocked daypack keeps you ready for anything.
- Look for Off-Season Deals: Many towns offer discounts on stays and activities in the off-season. Check local websites or call ahead.
- Stay Flexible: While planning is helpful, keep your schedule open to discover hidden gems. Sometimes, the best moments aren’t planned.
For a quieter outdoor experience, consider exploring national parks that are especially beautiful in early fall.
The Magic of These Fall Getaways
A fall weekend trip is a great way to enjoy the season’s beauty and take a break from daily routines. Each of these 11 small towns offers its own mix of history, culture, and nature that shines in autumn.
From local festivals and scenic landscapes to cozy lodgings and welcoming streets, these towns offer everything for an unforgettable autumn getaway.
So, pick your destination, pack your bags, and experience the charm and warmth these towns bring to life as the leaves change and the air turns crisp.