Tag: Fall Travel

2021 Fall Travel Destinations

Even though many see summer as the season in which to hit the open road for new experiences and a chance to visit exciting travel destinations, the autumnal landscape of September might be the right time to visit some of the following charming locations listed on this index of suggested places to travel to in September 2021 from Travel + Leisure.  Making fall travel an ideal scenario.

September is the ideal fall month when it comes to travel because the world just seems to slow down and settle after the rush and busy summer season begins to fade away. With the ninth month of the year, temperatures become crisper, leaves begin to stand out in a vibrant array of colors.

As always, due to local regulations, travel restrictions, and COVID-19 surges, it is highly- suggested that travelers properly research all local guidelines and CDC recommendations before booking any trip or getting too far along in the travel process in order to keep you and those you care about as safe and responsible as possible in these unprecedented times.

Travel + Leisure’s full list suggests that you make your way up to Vermont, Jackson Hole, and Stowe if you want to breathe in the fresh mountain air; venture out to Niagara Falls if you want to take in some breath-taking views while you pick apples or eat peach pie; take a ride out to San Diego or Carmel if you want to take a stroll along the beachfront or shoreline; and book a stay in Bristol, Virginia for their annual Country Music festival or even a weekend in Las Vegas to survey their new hotels, shows, and restaurants that have recently opened. No matter the September experience you’re expecting, there’s always a location where it can happen, as seen in the listings below.

Carmel, California

Stop by the California coast if you’re not looking to escape the sun just yet, as Carmel, California is the ideal place for you to soak up some Vitamin D with the warm, cloudless days and cool evenings that are held in town and along Carmel Beach. The fall season is the perfect time to escape to a shoreside town to survey its September offerings, and there’s no better place to stay or visit than the following: 

  • Carmel Valley Ranch: Encompassing an impressive 500 acres, this ranch offers its guests and residents all-suite accommodations to make your days not taking advantage of their offerings of hiking trails, rounds of golf, apiary visits, and equine experiences all the more relaxing.
  • The Quail Lodge: If you’re looking to book a stay somewhere more spacious, then the Quail Lodge is your best bet with its spacious guest rooms and suites available to be booked. While you’re here, be sure to check out the many sports activities such as the lodge’s nine-hole putting course, pickleball, pool, and its impressive 18-hole championship golf course.

 Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This is the prime destination for fall travel and for anyone looking to engage in hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, or practically any other outdoor activity, because Jackson Hole is set within (and named after) the valley between the Grand Tetons and the Gros Ventre Mountain Range. While this picturesque locale is a favorite among skiers and snowboarders in the winter months, there’s an array of Autumn activities and other events and seasonal openings to take advantage of; some highlights include:

  • Snake River Sporting Club: a 1,000-acre lodge with miles of trails and an infinity pool
  • The Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival: an annual collection of gallery walks, artist panels and more; held September 8-19.
  • The Caldera House: a boutique hotel found in Teton Village that offers its guests residential suites and luxurious amenities that can be enjoyed when seeking refuge from the nearby shops.

Be sure to check out the full list that goes on to suggest an international escape to Italy, Botswana, and French Polynesia’s Bora Bora.

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2021 Fall Hikes For Your Next Trip

One of the best times to experience a hike is in a season where the weather conditions are not overbearingly hot, humid, or otherwise terrible, making fall the perfect time to lace up your backpack, grab your water bottle, and lace up your hiking boots. And now, it’s never been easier to take advantage of the season and the beautiful landscapes across the continent with Travel + Leisure’s curated list of the best 2021 North American fall hikes to be experienced.

Port Townsend, Washington

One of the greatest ways to discover all that the waterfront town of Port Townsend, which is located on the Olympic Peninsula, has to offer is to trek on foot across its hikes of varying views, lengths, and difficulties. What makes this location perfect for an outdoor excursion is that in the background of your hike are the distant white-capped mountains, and gasp-worthy fall foliage is in the foreground. Prepare to be inundated with history and Port Townsend’s “true” residents, including deer, eagles,  hawks, seals, and sometimes whales as you traverse the Fort Worden Trail. Though, making it up to the summit of Mt. Walker is an absolutely stunning experience that you must consider, as it’s difficult to put into words due to the immense amount of plant life and sheer natural beauty that is to be observed at its great height.

Nashville, Indiana

This town is far too special to be left behind in the shadow of its Tennessee counterpart. The tiny town of Nashville, Indiana is considered by many to be a best-kept secret due to the transformative vision that is attained each year between late September and early November when the leaves change color. Explore “Indiana’s Stonehenge” or Browning Mountain when you hike through a deep set of woods to find a baffling circle of sandstone slabs, a quaint pool, and an old gilding foundation on this superb hike. Additionally, one of the area’s best fall hike trails is the 160-mile Knobstone Hiking Trail that shows those who seek it out a rugged, scenic look at one of the more interesting areas of the South Central Midwestern United States.

Lake Placid, New York

Located in the Adirondack Mountains is the lakeside village of Lake Placid, which is home to the largest trail system in the nation. The region’s marked hiking trails cover over 2,000 miles, so it’s no wonder why the locals love the outdoors so much. One of the more notorious trails in this area is the region’s system of trails that lead up to the breathtaking views of the 46 High Peaks, an area of over 4,000 feet that has to be seen to be believed. If you’re in a time crunch, the Lake Placid website separates its trail suggestions by their allotted time, allowing you to plan a 1-2 hour hike or a 2-4 hour hike at your leisure.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The city of Gatlinburg has been known by those on the East Coast to provide a plethora of outdoor activities to keep you entertained year-round, but the autumn season truly sets this location apart from the others. Plan your visit to experience amazing fall hikes. Traverse some of the over 800 miles of hiking trails that can be experienced along the Great Smoky Mountains and its valleys can range from a leisurely walk beside wildflowers to a challenging, yet rewarding trek through the backwoods.  Some standout hiking routes to seek out include watching a sunrise or sunset from the 6,600 feet height of the LeConte Lodge that rests atop Mt. LeConte and the five-mile round trip along Abrams Creek to the gorgeously deep Cades Cove Valley.

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8 Must Do Things in New York City this Fall

New York City is notorious for its bright lights and big-city buzz, but it’s also a beautiful spot to visit during the fall. The crisp air and colorful autumn trees bring a coolness to the city you can only experience during fall.

Whether it’s your first time visiting the Big Apple or your twentieth, these eight fall must-dos are for everyone to check out.

Forget Central Park – the Botanic Center is where it’s at. Filled with green-turned-red and orange maple, sumac, dogwoods, and oak trees, you can check out the fall foliage at the Japanese Garden and smell the roses in the Rose Garden. You can also experience a true fall festival in the heart of the city with their Harvest Homecoming Festival, complete with hayrides and apple cider.

This winter activity actually begins in October in this city! The Rink in Rockefeller opens around the middle of October to make sure visitors and locals can get the most out of the seasons. Rent your ice skates directly from the center, and once you’re done grab a hot cocoa or hot apple cider for the ultimate fall experience.

  • Explore NYC’s Haunted History On A Ghost Tour

Is it really fall if you don’t go on a ghost tour? You may not initially think of New York City as haunted, but rumor has it you can find a ghost or two once the sun goes down. St. Paul’s Chapel is said to have a headless ghost in residence, the Hotel Chelsea is the perfect place for a spooky story, and even the Empire State Building is said to have the ghosts of past suicide jumpers roaming the building. To experience a professional ghost tour, click here.

From a special theme to a Grand Marshall, this parade is everything Halloween. Come in your best-themed costume to join in on the parade and have fun with the band, dancers, puppets, and more! Then afterward join in with the after-party and have a scary good time with friends new and old.

  • Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an American tradition, so why not make it a tradition to see it in person? Held in Manhattan and lasting about three hours long, this annual parade is filled with huge balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from all over the country, guest artists, and last but not least, Santa in his sleigh.

One of the Tri-State area’s most epic fall festival, this event is held in Hudson Valley and filled to the brim with – you guessed it – Jack O’Lanterns. Make your way through thousands of elaborately detailed pumpkins, and make sure to check out the Pumpkin Carousel twirl and the Pumpkin Windmill whirl and step inside the Pumpkin Planetarium for a star show like you’ve never seen. It’s a unique way to experience part of New York City you may not have before.

This festival is one of the oldest and largest street festivals in Brooklyn, New York. Atlantic Avenue is filled with food carts, art and crafts booths, performances, and live music as community members from all over come and enjoy themselves and explore other cultures.

  • Bike Across The Brooklyn Bridge from New York City

Grab a bike rental from one of the cities many shops and get pedaling! This activity is fun andaccomplishing, and lets you get a view of the city that the locals do. Biking in fall means the weather is almost always perfect (so maybe you won’t even break a sweat!) Make sure to explore Brooklyn before heading back!

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The Best U.S. Cities to Visit This Fall

With fall comes cooler weather, beautiful scenery, and tons of things to do. October seems to be a fan favorite for traveling since the heat of the summer has worn off and everyone is eager for bonfires and sweater weather. Plus, with fall comes charming earth-toned colors that place a beautiful blanket of leaves on everything. Many people choose to travel during the fall so they can find fun festivals and events that introduce them to new places and keep their schedule busy. Whatever your reason for choosing to travel this fall, here are some of the best U.S. cities to add to your road map, according to Travel and Leisure.

The quaint southern town is the epitome of southern charm. Sprinkled with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and yummy true southern dishes, get ready to fall in love and never want to leave.

Halloween is a special time in Charleston, with extra spooky ghost stories and haunted cemetery tours for locals and visitors alike. Book a tour with Bulldog Tours and explore the Spirit of Magnolia Cemetery, or check out The Haunted Arsenal, U.S.S. Yorktown, or Haunted Jail tours – which also include expertly told, spine chilling ghost stories.

Although Sonoma is beautiful at all times of the year, fall must put something in the air. With gold and orange tint to surrounding trees and vines, a cool breeze, and a beaming sun creates the ultimate vacation atmosphere.

Make sure to check out the 45th Annual Harvest Fair in Santa Rosa or the MacArthur Place Hotel and Spa for ultimate scenery and relaxation. If you’re a Peanuts comic strip fan, check out the Charles M. Schulz Museum and have the opportunity to meet cartoonists, participate in crafts, and check out the gift shop.

Also known as The Music City, Nashville has the perfect mix of southern charm and rock n’ roll. Fill your schedule with music festivals like the Breakaway Music Festival or the Free Day of Music Festival.

Love Dolly Parton? The Grand Ole Opry is hosting a tribute to the country music icon in early October and those Elton John lovers can head to the Bridgestone Arena for Sir Elton John’s Farewell Yellowbrick Road Tour.

When you get hungry, head downtown for some southern barbeque or hot chicken and then head to the Bobby Hotel to catch up with some old friends.

Calling all foodies! Chicago is the place to go for the ultimate deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, or Italian beef sandwiches. Want something a little more classy? Make sure to check out some of the cities upscale dining spots, like Oriole or Alinea.

More into films than food? The 55th Chicago International Film Festival occurs in October and has more than 150 short and full-length festivals from around 50 countries.

Prefer to take in the sites and keep it casual? Taking a river cruise is a perfect way to see this U.S. city (take one at sunset – you won’t regret it), or take a walk on the Chicago Riverwalk and check out the Community Market and public art.

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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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