14 places to enjoy fall in California

Fall is a great time to take in some gorgeous autumn color and visit places that are too crowded (or too pricey) to fully enjoy in the hotter summer months. If you’re not ready for summer to end, you can find plenty of spots with the warmth of a sunny beach or the allure of a tropical breeze. Here are our picks for the top For stunning fall foliage If you’re inspired by the reds and golds of blazing autumn trees, your fall travel should definitely include these fall fan favorites.  California Wine Country From scenic vineyards to farm-to-table eateries, Burlington, Vermont If there’s any destination where fall is practically legendary, it’s Boston, Massachusetts If you prefer a big city vibe for your fall travel but you still want plenty of autumn color, plan a stop in Asheville, North Carolina Another legendary fall travel destination, For fewer crowds When school is in session, these popular travel destinations should be a little quieter and more peaceful than they are from June to August. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona As temperatures begin to cool in the Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Another tourist magnet during the summer months, Zion National Park, Utah Are you catching the national park theme when it comes to fewer crowds in fall? For an extended summer Bask in the sunshine a little longer by visiting these summer-like destinations.   Island of Hawaii, Hawaii The San Francisco, California It might be located in “sunny California,” but oddly enough, Big Sur, California With fall temperatures in the 60s and 70s, Find your dream destination Enjoy a second home for all seasons with Pacaso, whether it’s a Napa farmhouse bordered by vineyards, or a Malibu beach house steps from the sand.

Vibrant foliage, crisp air and fewer vacationers make autumn the perfect time for travel and adventure. To help you make the most of this enchanting season, we've curated a list of the 41 best fall vacation destinations across the United States. And if one of them feels like home, we can help you co-own a vacation home to love all year round. 1. Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania The Pocono Mountains are a paradise for hikers who love the brisk autumn temperatures and the foliage along the Appalachian Trail is breathtaking. Explore charming towns like Jim Thorpe and Stroudsburg as you travel through the region. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea during a 2. Woodstock, Vermont Take a scenic drive along Route 100, where the rolling hills are ablaze with the fiery hues of fall foliage. Explore the charming streets of Woodstock, where you'll find artisanal shops and cozy cafes. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the 3. Hudson Valley, New York Drive along Route 9W, where the rolling hills are painted in vibrant autumn colors.  Indulge in local apple picking at orchards like Fishkill Farms, enjoying freshly pressed cider while you’re there. Explore historic sites like Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate and Washington Irving's Sunnyside. 4. New York City, New York To kick off a great fall vacation in New York City, stroll through Central Park, where the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange. Then head to Greenwich Village and pop into cafes as you wander the charming streets. Don't miss the chance to take a scenic ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty against the crisp autumn skyline. Warm up in one of the city's world-class museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim or MoMA. 5. Long Island, New York Long Island has charming towns like Greenport and Southold, perfect for browsing in antique shops and boutiques. Families will enjoy visiting pumpkin patches and apple orchards, and adults will savor local wineries adorned with fall colors. As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant. 6. Catskill Mountains, New York Drive along Route 28 to see the rolling hills and vibrant foliage create a picturesque fall setting. Explore the hiking trails in the Catskill Forest Preserve, such as Kaaterskill Falls and Overlook Mountain, to witness the fall colors in all their glory. Nearby, small towns like Woodstock and Phoenicia offer a variety of art galleries, cozy cafes and farm-to-table dining.  7. Salem, Massachusetts The rich history of Salem, Massachusetts, comes alive in autumn. Begin your journey with a visit to the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous witch trials. Stroll along the historic streets and visit the House of the Seven Gables, an architectural gem. There are many Halloween festivities — including haunted tours and ghostly reenactments — to enjoy as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere of Salem's candlelit cemeteries and historic sites, making your fall getaway a truly bewitching experience. 8. Boston, Massachusetts Immerse yourself in Boston’s rich history and vibrant autumn ambiance with a stroll through Boston Common and the Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in the country. The leaves transform into a tapestry of reds and yellows — perfect for fall photoshoots. Take a leisurely walk along the Charles River Esplanade to witness the city's skyline ablaze with autumnal colors as the day ends. 9. Chicago, Illinois No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to Millennium Park, where the Bean and surrounding gardens are adorned with fall colors. Take a scenic stroll along Lake Michigan's shoreline, where the crisp breeze and changing leaves create a serene atmosphere. As evening approaches, the city's skyline lights up along the Chicago Riverwalk, and the city’s legendary jazz clubs come alive.  10. Black Hills, South Dakota Autumn is the perfect time for a scenic drive through the Black Hills National Forest, where the vibrant fall foliage paints the landscape in a mosaic of reds, yellows and oranges. After a hike or two, catch a glimpse of the free-roaming buffalo herds at Custer State Park. End your fall getaway with a visit to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.  11. Door County, Wisconsin The Door County Coastal Byway showcases the shores of Lake Michigan in gorgeous fall foliage. Hike the trails at Peninsula State Park, taking in breathtaking views from Eagle Bluff. Stop by small villages like Ephraim and Fish Creek for a charming day trip. Visit a local orchard for apple picking to indulge in the seasonal harvest. End the night with a glass of wine and local cheese as a reward for your hard work adventuring. 12. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana Bask in the geothermal wonders of Old Faithful where steam mingles with crisp fall air. Explore the park's diverse landscapes, from the colorful canyons of Yellowstone to the fiery hues of aspens and willows along the Lamar Valley. Watch for the park's wildlife, including elk and bison. Stop by the thermal pools at the Mammoth Hot Springs, where the fall colors contrast beautifully with the clear water — making it the perfect place to end your day of autumn adventure. 13. Jackson Hole, Wyoming 14. Seattle, Washington A good first stop is Pike Place Market, where you can sip on warm apple cider and explore stalls brimming with seasonal produce and artisanal crafts. After, stroll through the lush Washington Park Arboretum and its Japanese maple grove to witness the trees painted in stunning shades of red and gold. For photo ops, ride the Seattle Great Wheel on the Elliott Bay waterfront, then check out one of the city’s many independent coffee shops.  15. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon Eagle Creek and Multnomah Falls burst with vibrant autumn colors that pop against the lush greenery, making them the perfect fall hiking destinations. Explore the charming towns of Hood River and Cascade Locks, known for their local cideries and wineries. For panoramic views of the Columbia River framed by golden foliage, take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway.  16. Portland, Oregon Portland’s unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in the fall. Visit Powell's City of Books, one of the world's largest independent bookstores, then explore the city's lush parks, like Forest Park or Washington Park, where the fall foliage is on full display. As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront of the Willamette River to see the city’s illuminated bridges.  17. McKenzie River, Oregon Start your journey on the Historic Columbia River Highway, where waterfalls and colorful foliage line your path. To see lava fields framed by golden trees, explore the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway. Along the way, visit charming small towns like Hood River and Sisters, where local harvest festivals and cozy cafes await.  18. Napa Valley, California As the 19. San Francisco, California With a warm cup of coffee in hand, take a walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where the fog adds an enchanting atmosphere to your journey. Head to Golden Gate Park to witness the trees adorned in fall colors and visit the Japanese Tea Garden for a serene escape. Don't miss a drive down scenic Highway 1 to admire the rugged coastline and colorful autumn hues of nearby vineyards.  20. Redwood National Park, California Few places compare to the splendor of these ancient giants. Explore the park's scenic coastal trails, like the Fern Canyon loop, for a blend of lush greenery and vibrant fall colors along the Pacific coastline. To see some of the tallest trees on earth, visit the Tall Trees Grove. At dusk, witness the park's starry skies, free from light pollution, for a truly mesmerizing experience. 21. Yosemite, California Hike to iconic sites like Yosemite Falls and Half Dome for amazing views of the changing leaves. Now is your chance to capture stunning photographs of the changing leaves reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Mirror Lake. If you’re thinking of camping, plan ahead because reservations are required and sell out quickly. 22. Livermore, California Soak up the region's wine country charm and scenic beauty in Livermore. Savor wine tastings and learn about the winemaking process amidst the gorgeous fall colors. Explore the Livermore Valley Wine Country Trail, taking in the breathtaking views of rolling hills and grapevines. Adventurers can take a hot air balloon ride for a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape. Savor farm-to-table cuisine at local restaurants and cafes. 23. Mammoth Lakes, California Enjoy California’s crisp autumn weather during a hike along Eastern Sierra trails like the Crystal Lake Trail, where the aspen groves burst with brilliant fall colors. Explore the Mammoth Lakes Basin for sweeping views of the natural landscape. For even better views, take a gondola ride up to the Mammoth Mountain summit for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, ablaze in autumn hues.  24. Lake Tahoe, California 25. Palm Springs, California Though most think of it as a prime 26. Park City, Utah 27. Ouray, Colorado Hot springs and hikes make Ouray, Colorado, one of the best fall vacations in the U.S. Hike in the nearby San Juan Mountains, where aspen trees blaze with golden foliage. Don't miss a drive on the Million Dollar Highway, known for its dramatic vistas and winding roads. After a day full of adventure, relax in the soothing hot springs Ouray is famous for. 28. Colorado Springs, Colorado Begin your Colorado Springs adventure by exploring nearby trails, like the Manitou Incline or Barr Trail, for scenic hikes amidst the vibrant foliage. Don't miss a ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys dressed in fall colors. Then, stargaze at the Cheyenne Mountain State Park for an amazing celestial experience. 29. Aspen, Colorado Embrace the enchanting beauty of the Rocky Mountains in 30. Vail, Colorado Sitting in the Rocky Mountains, 31. Telluride, Colorado Indulge in the breathtaking autumn beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the charming mountain town of 32. Flagstaff, Arizona Flagstaff is more than a quaint town near the Grand Canyon — it’s the jumping-off point for lots of outdoor adventures. Hiking in the Coconino National Forest is the best way to enjoy the vivid colors of maple trees in fall. Take a scenic drive along the San Francisco Peaks Scenic Byway to see the volcanic peaks and autumn colors amidst breathtaking views. Consider visiting the Lowell Observatory for stargazing under the clear autumn skies.  33. Santa Fe, New Mexico The adobe buildings and vibrant fall colors of the Southwest create a unique atmosphere to explore. Experience the city's renowned art scene with visits to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and local galleries. Drive through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to see golden aspens, and end your day by stargazing under the clear desert skies. 34. Albuquerque, New Mexico Witness the fiery hues of sunrise and fall foliage from above with a hot air balloon ride over the Rio Grande Valley. Explore Old Town Albuquerque, where adobe buildings and artisan shops create a charming atmosphere. And spend a day at Petroglyph National Monument, where you can witness ancient rock carvings. 35. Austin, Texas This capital city is lively year-round, but fall is special. Visit to the Texas State Capitol, where you can learn about the state's history and enjoy the picturesque grounds. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Lady Bird Lake to watch the sunset over the city skyline. Ride bikes along scenic Barton Creek Greenbelt, where fall foliage lines the trails. And no trip to Austin is complete without checking out a live music performance at venues like the Continental Club.  36. Dallas, Texas Head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, where the foliage is a spectrum of fall colors. Grab your cowboy hat and head to the 24-day State Fair of Texas, a quintessential fall event full of rides,  food and lively entertainment. Nature lovers can enjoy the mild weather with a picnic at White Rock Lake or a hike in the nearby Cedar Ridge Preserve. Don’t miss trying a seasonal craft beer at one of the local breweries.  37. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a feast for the eyes during fall. Or head to the scenic Oklahoma River, where you can take a stroll or rent a kayak or paddleboard for an adventure on the water. Get a taste of local cuisine and enjoy live music in the always-vibrant Bricktown district.  38. Asheville, North Carolina Asheville is a stunning destination, especially in the fall. The city’s charm, abundance of breweries and proximity to nature make it a great 39. Williamsburg, Virginia Step back in time and relish the charms of this historic town. Watch costumed interpreters bring the 18th century to life amidst the backdrop of autumn leaves in Colonial Williamsburg. Explore the Governor's Palace gardens or drive along the Colonial Parkway, which offers picturesque views of the James River and surrounding woodlands. 40. Gatlinburg, Tennessee  Ready to embrace the autumnal splendor of the Smoky Mountains? Begin your day with a drive along the Newfound Gap Road to get a dose of fall colors. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park hiking trails, like Alum Cave or Laurel Falls, to bask in the colorful foliage. Visit the quaint shops and restaurants of Gatlinburg– one of the 41. Charleston, South Carolina To have the best fall vacation in Charleston, immerse yourself in the city's historic charm and coastal beauty. Stroll through the historic district, where centuries-old oak trees are adorned with Spanish moss, creating a magical autumn ambiance. Take a boat tour to nearby barrier islands like Morris Island, where you can enjoy serene beaches. Savor local cuisine, like shrimp and grits, at nearby restaurants. Experience the sunset over Charleston Harbor for a perfect ending to your fall getaway. Fall in love with a Pacaso vacation home Does one of these autumn destinations feel like it could become your With a Pacaso home, you just show up, unpack and make memories. We take care of maintenance, bills and management.

Napa Valley’s fall colors paint a masterpiece in the Golden State. From nostalgic grape stomps to leisurely gondola rides, California Wine Country offers an array of experiences to savor every autumn. Use our guide to the 17 best wineries, Where to sip back and relax Whether you want to Chateau Montelena Winery  Stroll through Sterling Vineyards Start your visit to this iconic winery with a scenic aerial gondola ride, granting you breathtaking views of the valley's colorful vineyards. Once at the winery, embark on a guided tour to explore the winemaking process and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Conclude your day on the elegant terrace with a wine tasting, where you can savor Harvest Inn  At Rutherford Hill Winery  As you arrive at Explore the unique caves that run deep within the hillside. When you’re through adventuring for the day, unwind on the terrace to enjoy an Chappellet Winery Embark on a guided vineyard tour at Far Niente Winery  Take a tour of Stags' Leap Winery After a tour through the Fall for Napa’s other autumn activities There’s much more to do in Wine Country this fall than tasting wine. Here are just a few.  Schramsberg Crush Camp Immerse yourself in the art of winemaking like never before. Roll up your sleeves to participate in the season’s grape harvest. Under the guidance of expert vintners, witness the meticulous process of crafting sparkling wine. This hands-on adventure offers an intimate and educational glimpse into the world of Grape stomping  Participate in the age-old tradition of Downtown St. Helena St. Helena is a Nimbus Arts sip and paint As you settle into a picturesque outdoor setting for this class, you'll be guided by talented artists to create your masterpiece — all while sipping on legendary local wines. The serene vineyard views and the gentle Napa breeze add to the ambiance, making Napa Valley Gondola  Old World Venice meets New World Napa! The Napa River is an ideal fall spot to enjoy an authentic Balloons Above the Valley  Ascend into the early-morning sky while the world below transforms into a patchwork of vineyards and the sprawling Napa River. ‘With Unwind in Napa nature Autumn is arguably the best Napa Valley season to enjoy a hike or drive, with the foliage turning to warm hues. From lush trails to scenic highways, Napa has all the autumn views you could want and more. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park Oak Knoll Avenue near Napa Oak Knoll Avenue is lined with a stunning tunnel of autumn foliage — making it the perfect setting for a scenic drive or a leisurely bike ride. It is also a wonderful photo spot to take Instagram-worthy portraits that will leave your followers craving those Wine Country views. Highway 12 (Wine Road) As you drive along Highway 12, also known as Wine Road, the hills come alive with a vibrant tapestry of autumn colors. You'll find yourself immersed in the heart of Wine Country, with the vineyards framing your journey.  Co-own a vacation home in Napa Valley Imagine crisp mornings, golden vineyards and the intoxicating aroma of freshly pressed grapes. Fall in Napa Valley is all about cozy tasting rooms, scenic hikes and maybe even a

Fall is that magical season between summer sunshine and winter festivities, when crisp air and colorful foliage transform the landscape. From golden aspens in the west to fiery red maple trees in the east, there’s no shortage of opportunities to soak in the beauty of this cozy time of year. Here are some of our favorite “leaf peeping” destinations. Late September through early October is when Mount Rainier National Park bursts into autumn color. Fiery red huckleberry meadows and golden forests contrast beautifully with the park’s snow-capped peaks, creating a dramatic landscape. Scenic trails at Paradise and Sunrise offer breathtaking overlooks, while quiet forest paths provide a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the season. With fewer crowds than many popular foliage destinations, Mount Rainier offers a serene and awe-inspiring fall experience. In mid-to late October, Late September to early October is when Famous for its shimmering aspen groves, This rugged mountain destination kicks off fall early, with leaves beginning to turn in early September. Across Grand Teton National Park, the trees shift into brilliant shades of yellow, creating a vivid backdrop for scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking on trails lined with autumn color. With fewer crowds than many East Coast counterparts, From late September through late October, the rolling hills and rivers of upstate New York transform into sweeping vistas framed by fiery maples and oaks. The region is known for its vibrant reds, yellows, oranges, golds, and even purples, creating a bold palette that feels almost otherworldly. Visitors can take in the scenery along the Hudson River rail line or tour local wineries to experience the magic of harvest season. Mid-October in the Berkshires marks the pinnacle of fall, showcasing classic New England charm with foliage in shades of red, orange, and gold. Lofty peaks and winding river valleys provide breathtaking vistas of the autumn landscape, while pumpkin patches, crisp air, and harvest festivals add a cozy, quintessential seasonal touch. Scenic drives along the Mohawk Trail, views from Mount Greylock, and stops at local festivals make the Berkshires a must-visit destination for fall foliage lovers.

There’s something magical about autumn: hillsides awash in color, a welcome chill in the air, the lure of a cozy fireplace. After the busy summer season, fall is the perfect time to enjoy a slower pace of life in a second home. Find your year-round getaway in one of these idyllic destinations.  Aspen  The chic mountain town of Vail Another charming Colorado retreat, Napa  Fall is harvest season in Charleston Do you love all things spooky? Fall is the perfect time to plan a trip to Palm Springs  For those who lament the end of summer every year, Second home destinations Pacaso offers co-ownership of fully managed, turnkey second homes that offer something special year-round. Browse and tour luxurious retreats in more than

Fall is all about getting cozy, and who better to cozy up to than the one you love? Our curated collection of 25 romantic fall getaways offers something for every couple, whether you crave adventure, relaxation or a blend of both.  With crisp air, vibrant foliage and fewer crowds, fall is an ideal time to reconnect and explore somewhere new. From secluded mountain hideaways to city escapes, you’re sure to fall for one of our autumn destinations. Northeast (U.S.) No place showcases autumn quite like the Northeast. With vibrant foliage, crisp mountain air and charming historic towns, it’s an ideal region for cozy escapes and scenic drives with someone you love. 1. Acadia National Park, Maine Begin an enchanting visit to Acadia National Park early — with a sunrise hike up Cadillac Mountain. You can share a breathtaking view of the first rays of sun painting the park’s rugged coastline in warm hues. Afterward, explore the park’s extensive network of hiking trails, hand in hand, amid the vibrant fall foliage. End your day at Jordan Pond, enjoying its serene waters and the park’s iconic mountain peaks. 2. Nantucket, Massachusetts Take a leisurely bike ride along In the evening, head to the beach and cozy up under a warm blanket to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean — one of the most romantic getaways in October for couples who love coastal charm. It’s easy to imagine what life could be like if you decided to 3. Cape Cod, Massachusetts 4. The Poconos, Pennsylvania As far as autumn getaways are concerned, this is hard to beat. In the enchanting Poconos region of Pennsylvania, autumn bursts with vibrant colors. Begin your romantic West (U.S.) From sun-drenched coastlines to golden mountain landscapes, the West offers endless ways to enjoy autumn’s beauty. Crisp days and mild nights make it perfect for fall getaways for couples, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, wine tasting or simply unwinding in nature.  5. Willamette Valley, Oregon In 6. Bend, Oregon 7. Sun Valley, Idaho Head to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area in 8. Aspen, Colorado In the stunning mountain oasis of 9. Steamboat Springs, Colorado Start your romantic getaway to 10. Telluride, Colorado For a memorable October getaway, ride the scenic gondola to the top of the mountain in 11. Park City, Utah Who needs snow? 12. Jackson Hole, Wyoming Head to the Grand Teton Mountains, where you can share awe-inspiring views of the rugged landscape and serene lakes of West Coast (U.S.) The West Coast shines in the fall, with mild weather, dramatic coastlines and vibrant city escapes. From wine country to seaside towns, it’s ideal for couples looking to relax and explore. Many visitors choose to 13. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California The charming coastal town of 14. Big Sur, California Begin your date day in Big Sur with a scenic drive along Highway 1, winding through towering redwoods and along coastal cliffs. For an intimate hike, trek to McWay Falls, a secluded cove with a waterfall cascading onto the beach — an enchanting backdrop for a picnic for two. As night falls, retreat to one of the cozy cliffside inns, where you can savor a glass of local wine and watch the stars come to life. 15. Lake Tahoe, California 16. Napa Valley, California South (U.S.) The South offers warm temperatures, colorful landscapes and a slower pace that make for the perfect fall escape. From historic towns to scenic rivers and coastal retreats, there’s something for every couple to enjoy. For those considering a seasonal retreat, it’s worth exploring the 17. Asheville, North Carolina Start your day in 18. Charleston, South Carolina A trip to 19. Savannah, Georgia Adorned in fall colors, Savannah exudes timeless romance. Take a walk through Forsyth Park, where the changing leaves and historic fountains create a serene setting. On a romantic riverboat cruise along the Savannah River, you can enjoy the city's iconic skyline while savoring a Southern-inspired dinner. Take an evening stroll along the historic district's cobblestone streets, creating the perfect ambiance beneath centuries-old oak trees. 20. The Keys, Florida South West (U.S.) The Southwest sparkles in the fall, with dramatic deserts, colorful canyons and sunny skies perfect for outdoor adventures. Crisp mornings and warm afternoons make hiking, scenic drives and exploring charming towns ideal. From national parks to vibrant cities, the region offers unforgettable fall experiences for couples. 21. Sedona, Arizona Take a scenic drive to explore the stunning red rock formations and famed vortexes of 22. Flagstaff, Arizona Flagstaff's historic streets offer charming shops and photo opportunities. Drive to Lockett Meadow, where you can enjoy an alpine hike amid the fall foliage. In the evening, cozy up by the fire pit at one of the town's rustic lodges, sharing stories and sipping local craft beers under a star-studded night sky. Enjoy romantic getaways all year round when you Europe Europe in the fall is magical, with historic cities, colorful countryside and fewer crowds than in summer. Crisp air and cozy cafes set the perfect scene for romantic strolls and cultural exploration. From charming villages to iconic landmarks, Europe has much to offer for couples seeking a fall getaway. 23. Paris, France 24. London, England 25. Tuscany, Italy Co-own a cozy vacation home Picture you and your partner enjoying one of these romantic fall getaways every year. Now imagine enjoying your own vacation home in one of these beautiful destinations. Thanks to Pacaso co-ownership, a luxurious second home is more attainable than ever. Our turnkey,