Where to Find the Best Fall Foliage on the East Coast

The beauty of autumn makes the transition from summer to winter a little easier on the soul. As the air turns crisp and leaves change from green to a fiery mix of reds, oranges, and golds, there’s no better way to take it all in than a vacation to the East Coast. Whether you’re chasing peak leaf peeping in the woods or mountain hikes, winding through charming towns, or exploring the region’s historic landmarks, East Coast fall trips are sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning a trip to see the best fall foliage on the East Coast, the earlier you book, the better. Fall foliage trips on the East Coast are in high demand, and waiting too long can mean missing out on top accommodations, especially in smaller towns that draw crowds for peak fall colors. Mid-summer is the absolute latest you should consider booking, as availability drops and prices climb the closer it gets to autumn. Planning ahead gives you first pick of the best places for fall foliage on the East Coast, from charming mountain villages to scenic coastal routes.

Recognized as 2024’s top fall foliage destination in the US, Bucks County is a mix of rolling farmland, colonial charm, and tree-lined roads that glow with autumn color. One of the best ways to experience fall foliage in its full glory is on a self-guided tour of the area’s historic covered bridges. Bucks County is considered one of the birthplaces of covered bridges in the US; the county has more than 50, with some dating back to the 1800s. Peddler’s Village is great for daytime activities and seasonal events, including its scarecrow competitions and OktoberFeast. History buffs have to stop by Washington Crossing Historic Park, the commemorative location where President Washington crossed the Delaware River and changed the tide during the Revolutionary War. Delaware Canal State Park is another way to enjoy the outdoors and get great views of the leaves, as it has a canal-side bike path. If you’re staying in Bucks County, consider towns like New Hope or Doylestown.

Found in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid offers stunning mountain views and a cozy alpine vibe that make it a favorite for fall travel. The forested peaks surrounding the village put on a spectacular show of autumnal colors each season, so it’s a guaranteed great fall foliage destination. For scenic views of the fall leaves and the area itself, book a foliage cruise on Mirror Lake or get a ticket for the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. Both options provide a relaxing ride through some of the area’s best landscapes. Adventurous visitors will love hiking up nearby Whiteface Mountain, which provides sweeping views from one of the tallest points in New York. Between exploring Olympic Village and enjoying local fall festivals, there’s plenty to do. Whether you’re relaxing at a lodge or exploring the trails, Lake Placid blends outdoor adventure with seasonal beauty in a way few places can.

If coastal cliffs, ocean air, and mountain trails sound like an idyllic fall setting to escape to, Acadia National Park delivers. Known as the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast,” this beloved national park is considered a prime spot for leaf peeping. The Park Loop Road takes you on a 27-mile journey close to some of Acadia’s most iconic landmarks, including Sand Beach, Jordan Pond, and Cadillac Mountain. Hikers will find trails for all ability levels, from the dramatic Beehive Precipice routes to gentler paths with ocean views. Just outside the park, the town of Bar Harbor is the perfect home base. Bar Harbor itself is a wonder to walk through, as it is aplenty with inns, fresh seafood restaurants, and boutique shops. Fewer crowds in the fall make both Acadia and Bar Harbor more accessible than in the high-traffic summer seasons.

Stowe is considered the “color capital” of New England, and for good reason. Tucked at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, this alpine town is a favorite among leaf peepers hoping to see fall colors on the East Coast. The Gondola Skyride up to the summit of Mount Mansfield offers an unmatched glimpse of the nearby Green Mountains blanketed in red and gold. Hikes around Smugglers’ Notch or to the rushing waters at Bingham Falls are highlights. No trip to Stowe would be complete without visiting the von Trapp Lodge and Bierhall. Founded by the same von Trapps that inspired The Sound of Music, the lodge and Bierhall feature beautiful grounds, plenty of family activities, and an onsite brewery.

Located in rural western Massachusetts, the Berkshires are ideal for those seeking a laid-back yet cultured fall experience. The region has a nice balance of natural beauty, arts, history, and cuisine. A drive along the historic Mohawk Trail delivers incredible fall views, while a hike to Bash Bish Falls, the state’s tallest waterfall, rewards you with a spectacular setting surrounded by changing leaves. Mount Greylock, Massachusetts’s highest peak, also boasts stunning views from its summit. Travelers should consider staying in either Lenox, Great Barrington, or Stockbridge. These towns are near attractions like the Norman Rockwell Museum and have thriving farm-to-table restaurants and boutique shops.

Litchfield County is a hidden gem for leaf peepers who want a quieter, more relaxed seasonal getaway. Rolling hills, colonial-style architecture, and a colorful countryside make it the perfect destination for those who want to slow down and enjoy the best of what autumn has to offer. Kent Falls State Park is one of the region’s most scenic spots. A short walk leads to the top of a cascading waterfall backdropped by bright autumn leaves. Local farms are known for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and cider tastings. Antique lovers won’t be able to get enough of the wide selection of shops throughout the county, while foodies will revel in sips and samples from places like Litchfield Distillery or While Silo Farm & Winery.

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is one of the best places for fall foliage on the East Coast, offering dramatic mountain scenery and unforgettable drives. Skyline Drive, which runs the length of Shenandoah National Park, is famous for its 75 overlooks with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains bursting in fall colors. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy exploring trails like Stony Man or Hawksbill Mountain, while those looking for a slower pace can stop in charming valley towns like Luray or Staunton. Shenandoah is easily accessible from Washington, D.C., making it a great weekend trip packed with natural beauty and crisp autumn air.

Don’t miss your chance to see the best fall colors on the East Coast. Reach out to The Travel Team and start planning your foliage-filled adventure today!