Colorful foliage, crisp weather, and cozy sweaters—fall just might be our favorite season. If you’re looking to experience the eye-popping splendor of autumn, pack a camera and head to these idyllic destinations across America. Of course, we’ve included the best, HAP-approved boutique stays in each place, too.
Lake Placid, New York
Pristine water, mountains, and forests have long lured nature lovers to Lake Placid. It’s particularly gorgeous in the fall when the oaks, sugar maples, and birch erupt in a dazzling display. The well-marked Old Orchard Loop is a relatively easy trail with a majorly scenic payoff.
Where to Stay: Eastwind Lake Placid
Eastwind Lake Placid—a 1950s motor lodge turned Scandi-chic haven in the heart of the Adirondacks—invites guest to schvitz in the sauna and snooze in hygge cabins.
Aspen, Colorado
America’s most glamorous ski resort offers a lot off the mountain and during the off-season—especially when the aspen trees turn golden yellow in the fall. It’s also the best time of year to hit the myriad trails that wind through the Maroon Bells.
Where to Stay: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
The buzzy bar scene, reimagined spa, and sophisticated design that leans into Aspen’s western heritage are high points of Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Lenox, Massachusetts
A well-established solstitial retreat for urbanites seeking more pastoral pastures, Lenox is famed as the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. But this small Berkshires town has fire-hued foliage and photog-worthy scenes that makes a compelling case for a fall visit.
Where to Stay: 33 Main
Lenox local and interior decor cognoscente Annie Selke lends her sagacity to 33 Main, a darling eight-room B&B that’s the poster child for impeccable curation.
Park City, Utah
More than just a mecca for skiers and snowboarders, Park City gives leaf-peepers an eyeful of spectacular autumn foliage. Soak in the awe-inspiring scenery on foot, horseback, or take the cable car from downtown to mid-mountain for lunch and iconic views of the valley.
Where to Stay: Pendry Park City
A ski-in-ski-out stunner in the center of Canyons Village, Pendry Park City elevates slopeside style with modern design, a European-influenced aprés lounge, and panoramic sweeps.
Bar Harbor, Maine
As the gateway to Acadia National Park, the bayfront town of Bar Harbor stands out among the many fall foliage getaways in Maine. Who could possibly pass up the chance to see scarlet leaves, roaming wildlife, and rocky beaches on the same trip?
Where to Stay: Salt Cottages
With its nostalgic Americana-themed design and unrivaled ocean views, Salt Cottages gives off classic coastal Maine vibes. Plus, it’s located minutes from Acadia National Park.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal is an utterly enchanting city. The picturesque quota goes up tenfold in the fall when bronzish red and flaming orange hues overtake the trees. Mount Royal Park and Montreal Botanical Garden are two of the most magical spots to peep the colorful leaves.
Where to stay: Hôtel William Gray
Set inside an 18th-century greystone in Old Montreal, Hôtel William Gray brings modern design and fresh energy to a historic part of the city.
Barnard, Vermont
Renowned as one of the most beautiful leaf-peeping destinations in all of New England (and that’s saying something), Barnard is a historic small town with a population of fewer than 1,000 residents that’s the perfect place for misty morning hikes around the lake and scenic drives.
Where to Stay: Twin Farms
Surrounded by meadows, rolling hills, and leafy trees, Twin Farms defines pastoral perfection. This legendary adults-only escape also has a superlative gourmet pedigree.
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