Top Spots in the Country for Seeing the Changing of the Leaves

One of the best things about the autumn season is that this time of year gives you the opportunity to see the natural majesty which is the changing colors of the leaves. All across the United States are many different types of trees, so there are plenty of places to see some amazing fall foliage. Thanks to this superb guide for the best places in the country to see changing leaves from Travel + Leisure, you can experience the beauty of fall foliage as long as you plan ahead and time just right.

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is one of the best places to see fall foliage in the United States. The town is located on the southern tip of New Jersey and is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful beaches. In the fall, Cape May is a beautiful place to visit, with its many trees changing color and the cool breeze blowing off the ocean. Visitors can take a trolley ride through the town, visit historic sites, or just enjoy the views from one of the many restaurants or cafes.

 Brooklyn, New York

Naturally, one of the best places to see amazing fall foliage in the United States is also one of the most famous places, and that’s for good reason. If you’re seeking out a variety of picturesque locations to see the vibrant changing colors of leaves this fall you’ll definitely want to check out Brooklyn, New York. If you do visit Brooklyn this autumn, be sure that you travel to multiple locations such as Prospect Park, Sunset Park, and Coney Island. Particularly, Sunset Park is a location that offers sweeping views of the Big Apple and the Hudson River.  Similarly, be sure to check out Brooklyn Bridge Park to see a great view of the Manhattan skyline while you also take in the leaves changing colors on the trees that line the river. Lastly, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden serves as an absolute must-see destination in Brooklyn during fall. This is because the gardens are filled with beautiful foliage, and there’s also a pumpkin patch that makes for a great visit each October.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is a particularly fantastic place to see fall foliage. There are many different types of trees to be found throughout the forest, so you can see a variety of colors as the leaves change. Also, the forest spans over 4 million acres and includes parts of the Cascade Range and the Rocky Mountains, and you can also enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities while you’re taking in the leaves.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Filled to the brim with beautiful colors, the Wisconsin Dells is one of the best places to see fall foliage in the United States, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy while you’re in the area. For instance, you can take a scenic drive down Highway 12, go for a hike in one of the many state parks, or take a ride aboard the famous Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Similar to Brooklyn, when many people imagine themselves watching the leaves change, they imagine Cape Cod, and that’s for a valid reason: it’s uniquely beautiful this time of year. The Cape’s unique location – jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean – means that it experiences all four seasons, including beautiful autumn weather. The Cape’s coastlineis dotted with quaint towns and villages, each with its own character and charm, and in the fall, these towns come alive with color as the leaves on the trees change color. Visitors can enjoy many different activities during their stay on Cape Cod, from exploring the Cape’s numerous beaches and hiking trails to taking a scenic drive along one of the Cape’s many winding roads. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Cape Cod is the perfect destination for enjoying the best of what autumn has to offer.

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Take in the Colorful Changing Leaves of Fall

As the summer heat begins to wind down and a colorful, brisker season approaches, many look for seasonal comfort in the forms of apple cider, warm sweaters, but most importantly- the changing of the leaves from lush summer greens to autumnal golds, oranges, and reds. Gathered by Travel + Leisure, is the following collection of the best locations in the continental United States to see the fantastic sights brought upon by the colorful changing leaves of fall .

Stowe, Vermont

Beginning the list for the best leaves of fall is a locale known as “Fall’s Color Capital,” due to its abundance of plants turning various shades of yellow, red, orange, and brown during the months of September and October. It’s suggested that visitors hike or ride through the area to take in the sights, and if the weather proves to be too chilly, a scenic drive can always be found down the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road.

 Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The Columbia River Gorge is found in between Washington and Oregon states, bringing the best of what both Pacific Northwest destinations have to offer. This Gorge is home to over fifty waterfalls, with the fall months of October and November being the most optimal times to visit. During these months, Mount Hood becomes a picturesque performance of fall colors, hiking trails, and biking paths, contributing to a collection of unforgettable pictures that will never seem to leave your personal photograph archives.

 North Conway, New Hampshire

More than 26 miles of roadway lines the Kancamagus Highway that is tucked away within the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire. Step literally into a photograph in early November as you enjoy beautiful vistas- that is when you take a break from the hiking, biking, and rock climbing that the area has to offer.

 Huntington, New York

As seen in numerous films displaying its vibrant colorscape, the Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve of New York features over 1,600 acres and 27 Trails to explore as you revel in the diverse Maple, Hickory, Sassafras, and Dogwood trees alongside your walking path.

 Eastern Shore, Maryland

Whether you find yourself walking around Elk Neck State Park taking in the colorful sights or indulging in the freshly-caught Maryland crabs, you’ll find a safe haven in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, which surrounds both Chesapeake Bay and the Delmarva Peninsula.

 The Poconos, Pennsylvania

No list of iconic American leaves of fall locations should be respected if it does not highlight the absolute majesty of the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. This vista stretches around the perimeter of gently winding roads that are absolutely perfect for those chasing the most vibrant fall foliage of the area. Take Route 507 around Lake Wallenpaupack on your relaxing, autumnal roadtrip when the leaves begin to turn in mid-September, peaking in October.

 Lenox, Massachusetts

Book a stay at the nearby Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa for pampering relaxation following your excursion to the Pleasant Valley Sanctuary in mid-October when the beautiful, unforgettably-vivid colorscape of the Massachusetts town is on full display against hiking and biking trails.

Taos, New Mexico

Just because the New England corner of America first comes to mind when thinking of the leaves changing doesn’t mean that the south should be ignored. Consider the southwestern landscape of New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle as fall foliage canon, being that the 83-mile drive connecting the towns of Taos, Eagle Nest, Red River, and Questa is known as one of American’s most scenic drives containing spectacular views.

 Amicalola Falls State Park, Georgia

Home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall at an impressive 729 feet is Amicalola Falls State Park, where visitors can take in a beautiful landscape of Georgian plant life, including maple and oak trees basking in vibrancy.

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Fall Foliage Cruises for 2019

One of the most beautiful parts of autumn is the changing colors of the leaves. The beginning transition from summer to winter is short, yet gorgeous every year. Fall foliage does not stay around for long, but it is still one of the best parts of the year. The colors create a blanket where they fall, creating a calming view regardless of where you are.

Some take road trips to fully experience the fall foliage. Some take train rides. Another amazing way to have the full fall foliage experience is by cruise. Travel + Leisure has compiled a list of The Best Fall Foliage Cruises Across the U.S. Here are a few of those best cruises to help you experience fall foliage in all of its beauty.

Holland America’s Atlantic Coast Cruise

With a capacity of 1964,  the cruise ship Zuiderdam gives the option to take a relaxing cruise along the East Coast. The 11 day cruise begins in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, allowing you to enjoy the city’s rich French culture and prominent fall foliage before traveling down the countryside. The cruise disembarks in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering a beach getaway to end the foliage journey.

The cruise boasts a price of $1099 a person. It offers modern amenities and an art and antique collection on board. There are vast options for on-board music and even a BBC Earth experience on board.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Vancouver to Los Angeles

All aboard the Seven Seas Mariner for this 12 day getaway. Begin your trip in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and watch the leaves begin changing into their yellow hue. The ship then heads upward toward Alaska, and back down to sunny Los Angeles, California. The ever-changing scenery offers a unique view of the changing seasons we have all come to enjoy. With a capacity of 700 guests, the cruise is $8,899 per person.

You can enjoy the view from your private balcony, or take a more hands on approach and go kayaking in Alaska. Either way, the classy Seven Seas Mariner offers something for everyone.

Royal Caribbean’s Fall Foliage Northbound Cruise

The Adventure of the Seas begins its journey in New Jersey. Setting sail in September, the ship’s path offers the best of the coast at the prime time for fall foliage. The ship disembarks in Bar Harbor, Maine- a prime location for watching as winter creeps in and the leaves change their colors.

The Adventure of the Seas has a capacity of 3807 and a starting cost of $689 per person. The ship offers activities from racer slides to dance classes to rock climbing to ice skating. There is never a dull moment on this Adventure.

Carnival Cruise’s Canada and New England Journey

Beginning in New York, the brand new Mardi Gras takes you along a soothing path. You will travel from New York to the coast of Portland, Maine and Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. As you navigate your way through these picturesque towns, the leaves will be turning red, yellow, and orange around you.

The Mardi Gras has a capacity of 5200 guests and prices begin at $649 per person. The ship will have water slides, an eco-friendly roller coaster, Family Feud Live, and much more. The Mardi Gras may be a new ship, but it will surely not disappoint.

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