10 Best Places To See Fall Foliage In 2025

When fall comes, the landscape around us transforms into a stunning palette of the perfect shades of fall colors. It's the season in which everything pumpkin- and cinnamon spice-flavored feels just right and everyone's coziest sweaters, scarves, and jeans come out of the closet. Step outside and you'll get to feel the crunch of leaves with every step you take — it's the perfect time to take a scenic drive, go for a refreshing walk, or enjoy a cozy coffee on the porch. But if you don't live in an area where you get to experience the ultimate fall foliage, it's definitely time to plan a fall getaway. 

Decorating your deck for autumn is one way to celebrate the coming of a new season, but to be able to witness all of the colors of nature's fall foliage is truly an unmatched experience. From scenic mountain drives and charming small towns to a garden full of Japanese maple varieties, there are some amazing places in the U.S. to see fall foliage in. You could be chasing all of the blazing reds and orange hues of the Midwest, the vibrant shades of yellow in the Pacific Northwest, or the surprising bursts of color in a beautiful Southern garden. Prepared to be enchanted — it's time to pack a camera and some cozy knit sweaters and get ready for the crisp fall air, the most vibrant landscapes, and the perfect autumn escape. Let's take a look at the best places to see fall foliage in 2025.

New Hampshire is one of the most commonly named states when people ask for the best places to witness a fall foliage, and the White Mountains are a big reason why. The rolling hills and rugged peaks are showered with lush and fiery reds, burnt oranges, and all kinds of golden hues. If you're not up for walking, take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway and stop by the charming towns to get the quintessential New Hampshire autumn experience. 

National park lovers often flock to Maine's Acadia National Park in mid-October to see one-of-a-kind fall foliage. Located along Maine's breathtaking coastline, you'll have the chance to experience deep maples and golden birches pop against the deep blue Atlantic Ocean for a truly striking contrast only nature can offer. Catch the phenomenal sunrise from Cadillac Mountain and witness the warmest glow casted across the autumn-hued trees and sparkling blue water. If you're up for an adventure, plan to rent a boat to glide across Eagle Lake and look into renting one of the best Airbnbs there.

If you'd rather experience fall sitting by a window in a cozy cafe and not so deep in nature, Salem, Oregon should be added to your list. The city offers Bush's Pasture Park and Deepwood Museum and Gardens, which offer open lawns and historic grounds that transform into a canvas of russet and scarlet hues in mid- to late October. Strolling through this city in the fall will feel as if you've stepped onto the set of "Hocus Pocus," with its leafy streets, the coziest cafes, and Victorian and Gothic architecture.

If you've heard about the amazing fall experience you can have in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the ideal home base for your adventure. Just two miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, Gatlinburg is the perfect gateway to the iconic beauty of the mountains. Head over to Ober Mountain, as it offers a countless number of outdoor activities, from the famous Gatlinburg tram to scenic chair rides. The fiery autumn foliage will be the perfect backdrop for photos. Make sure to check out all of the fall events happening throughout Gatlinburg for that true festive experience. 

If you love road trips, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is the perfect fall foliage escape, running more than 450 miles from Virginia's Rockfish Gap to Cherokee, North Carolina. Experience all of the autumn colors while driving across one of the world's engineering masterpieces, the Linn Cove Viaduct. The winding roads and endless views of maple, oak, and hickory trees draped in fall colors create a truly unforgettable experience. The route also has many scenic overlooks, campgrounds, and hiking trails, making it easy to pause to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking views.

Fall in Europe is a magical experience like no other, and if you haven't gotten the chance to experience it, Leavenworth, Washington is the closest you'll get to a quaint European town stateside. Situated in the Cascade Mountains, come the fall season, the Bavarian-style town is brought to life with the most vivid red and orange hues. An even better fall visit might be planning your visit around the town's yearly Autumn Leaf Festival, where you'll have access to fun fall festivities as you're surrounded by falling foliage and crisp mountain air. 

If you've ever wondered what it would be like to experience fall in a small town as if you were the main character of a romance movie, Door County, Wisconsin is calling your name for the perfect fall trip. With picturesque towns and villages like Ephraim and Baileys Harbor that make up the county, it's the perfect fall weekend getaway. Grab a coffee and sit along the shoreline in downtown Ephraim to admire the fiery reds and golds reflecting off the water. Camping in Door County is also a wonderful way to take in the show-stopping colors. 

The East Coast is full of places to witness fall foliage that will leave you in awe, but for 2025, Priceline shared with Travel + Leisure that Hudson Valley, New York takes the top spot as the nation's most popular destination for leaf peepers. It doesn't just stop at fall foliage — there are also plenty of events dedicated for the spooky season, like the famous Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze and autumnal Hudson River cruises. Make sure to bring your best-quality camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. 

If you're one of the people who think fall foliage is only worth going to see in the East Coast, then Hope Valley, California is about to prove you wrong. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, this alpine valley is blanketed with brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red hues that'll remind you of the perfect sunset. A drive along Highway 88 and 89 is the perfect way to explore this magical area. Stop by Caples Lake to wander along the shoreline, enjoy a long walk with your dog, or just sit and soak in the mesmerizing scenery. 

If you're seeking a fall foliage trip that feels like you've been transported to Japan, then you're going to want to head to Ball Ground, Georgia to visit Gibbs Garden. The garden is home to more than 200 Japanese maple tree varieties. As you take a stroll through the garden, you'll be immersed in the deepest shades of crimson, orange, and gold. On top of the immaculate fall foliage you'll witness, there's a traditional Japanese torii gate, more than 20 reflective ponds, and winding pathways that showcase the garden's serene beauty.