Epic Fall Getaways: What Mood Are We In?
- The Family Travel Spot
- 2 hours ago
- 13 min read
Crisp fall air, vibrant scenery, mountain peaks, and the cutest, coziest small towns.
Cozy escapes, crisp-air adventures, colorful scenery, and charming retreats that make you want to pack your bags and embrace everything autumn has to offer. From leaf-peeping road trips to cozy weekend getaways, discover destinations that are perfect for your next fall family adventure.
Find out exactly which destinations we’re in the MOOD for and discover the perfect fall getaway for your family's next adventure!
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8 INCREDIBLE FALL GETAWAYS
It’s official: pumpkin spice season is here, and you bet we’re here for it! 🍁
From the sweet smell of apple crisp and fresh autumn air to pumpkin patch visits and cozy sweaters, we have every intention of soaking up all things fall.
As Upstate New York natives, we like to think we know a thing or two about doing fall right—and we’re always on the hunt for those spectacular foliage views.
Fall getaways are some of our favorite family trips to plan. There’s just something special about hitting the road when the leaves are changing, the mornings are crisp, and every little town seems to be serving up its own version of autumn magic.
From mountain towns and lakeside retreats to charming villages and scenic fall road trips, there are so many incredible destinations across the U.S. and Canada that are made for a cozy autumn escape, and we had the hardest time narrowing down our list!
We rounded up some of our favorite family-friendly fall getaways—from classic New England towns to mountainside escapes, and a few places you may not have considered.
So grab your sweaters and hiking shoes, because it’s officially cozy season. It’s time for apple picking and fresh cider doughnuts, pumpkin spice lattes, colorful leaves, and those cool, refreshing mornings.
It’s fall, y’all! 🍂🎃
Keep scrolling to discover which fall destinations made our list... some of them may surprise you!
What you can expect from this post...
🍁 Quintessential New England Towns
🏔️ Mountain Escapes
🌊 Coastal Getaways
🍎 Fall Foliage Recommendations
🏡 Cozy Stays
🗺️ Family Adventure
Before You Hit the Road...
Planning a fall getaway? These family-favorite essentials are worth adding to your packing list.
Layers + cozy comfortable clothing
STOWE & WOODSTOCK, VERMONT
Mood: We need rolling hills, colorful foliage, sweet fall vibes, and quintessential Vermont charm
Picture this: crisp mountain air, covered bridges, apple cider, colorful foliage, cozy little shops, and charming New England towns that look like they were made for a fall postcard. If you’re looking for a family fall getaway that feels like stepping straight into a Hallmark movie—but still has plenty to keep the kids entertained—put Woodstock and Stowe, Vermont, at the top of your list! Both Stowe and Woodstock are home to charming villages, cozy cafés, beautiful trails, museums, plenty of outdoor activities, and those iconic Vermont covered bridges. Add in the stunning autumn views, crisp mountain air, and colorful foliage, and you have all the ingredients for the perfect family fall escape. Vermont is truly a special place—and one that deserves a spot on your family’s bucket list. And whatever you do, don’t leave without trying a warm apple cider donut in Stowe or the classic maple creemee in Woodstock!
Typical Peak Foliage: Last week of September through the second week of October.
Lodging to Consider:
🍂 Topnotch Resort Stowe — A longtime favorite with gorgeous mountain surroundings, pools, and plenty of amenities.
🍂 The Lodge at Spruce Peak Stowe — A great splurge option, especially for families who want a full resort experience and mountain activities.
🍂 Trapp Family Lodge Stowe — Such a fun Vermont choice! The Austrian-inspired lodge has beautiful mountain views, trails, family activities, and tons of character.
🍁Woodstock Inn & Resort — Probably the most iconic choice. Beautiful, upscale, right in the heart of Woodstock, and perfect for a cozy fall getaway.
🍁506 On The River Inn Woodstock — More relaxed and family-friendly, with beautiful grounds and a peaceful setting just outside the village.
🍁The Jackson House Inn Woodstock — A smaller, charming option for families wanting a quieter Vermont experience.
Packing Items to Consider:
Layers + cozy comfortable clothing
Packable hooded rain jackets
Extra water-resistant socks
Waterproof hiking or comfortable shoes
Wet/dry bag
Apple picking/tote
Touchscreen gloves
LAKE PLACID, NEW YORK
Mood: We need a mountain escape with vibrant fall foliage, cozy lake views, and a touch of European charm.
Lake Placid feels like the perfect fall escape when your family wants a little bit of everything—mountain views, crisp autumn air, beautiful lake views, charming shops, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Stroll through the village on Main Street, take in the stunning views of Mirror Lake and the Adirondacks High Peaks, explore family-friendly trails, and cozy up with a warm drink by a fire after a day outside. With its storybook setting, Olympic history, scenic drives, and some of our favorite leaf-peeping spots, Lake Placid is made for a fall family adventure. Take the iconic scenic drive up Veterans Memorial Highway and climb (elevator also available) to Whiteface Mountain Peak for unmatched views, or tackle Little Whiteface via the Cloudsplitter Gondolas for a fun family adventure, then stroll along the charming Main Street with its European-inspired flair. Indulge in delicious eats along the way, and with so much to see and do, you'll have no trouble creating an epic family weekend! Lake Placid is easily one of our family's favorite weekend escapes, and we know your family will love it too.
Typical Peak Foliage: Last week of September through first week of October
Lodging to Consider:
🍂 Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort — Stay right on Mirror Lake and just steps from Main Street. Families love the complimentary lake activities, indoor pool, and location with village immersion and easy walkability.
🍂High Peaks Resort — This family-friendly resort sits right on Mirror Lake and is close to downtown. Enjoy lake activities, mountain views, fires, and plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring.
🍂Whiteface Lodge — A beautiful Adirondack-style resort with spacious suites and tons for kids to enjoy, including outdoor heated pools year-round, fires, bowling, a game room, and a movie theater. Guests especially love the cozy atmosphere and family-friendly amenities.
🍂Mirror Lake Inn — A charming lakeside resort with classic Adirondack charm, beautiful views, pools, a private beach, and an on-site spa. It’s a lovely choice for families who want something a little more upscale.
Packing Items to Consider:
Layers + cozy comfortable clothing
Packable hooded rain jackets
Extra water-resistant socks
Waterproof hiking or comfortable shoes
Waterproof phone pouch
Wet/dry bag
Touchscreen gloves
NORTH CONWAY & JACKSON, NEW HAMPSHIRE
Mood: We need winding mountain roads with breathtaking foliage, invigorating fresh air, and charming New England Vibes sprinkled with family adventure.
Meet winding mountain roads, fiery fall foliage, covered bridges, fresh autumn air, and quaint New England villages tucked into the White Mountains. You have arrived in New Hampshire. If your family is looking for a fall getaway filled with scenic adventures, small-town charm, and plenty to explore, Jackson and North Conway, New Hampshire, are two great options to add to your family’s fall bucket list! From breathtaking drives and family-friendly hikes to local shops, delicious food, and unforgettable views, there’s something for everyone. Take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad—and if you can swing it, opt for the Mountain Explorer—make a pit stop at Zeb’s General Store, explore the charming village of Jackson and its famous Honeymoon Bridge, chase countless waterfalls, or simply spend the day soaking in the incredible fall colors. With the White Mountains as your backdrop, every drive seems to lead to another postcard-worthy view. Jackson and North Conway are the kind of places that make you want to slow down, get outside, and enjoy every bit of fall.
Typical Peak Foliage: Last week in September through the second week in October
Lodging to Consider:
🍁 Christmas Farm Inn & Spa Jackson — A cozy, historic inn with a beautiful setting and family-friendly amenities. The indoor pool is a big plus after a day of hiking and exploring.
🍁 Nordic Village Resort Jackson — Great for families who want more space. Condo-style accommodations, indoor and outdoor pools, and mountain views make this a practical choice with older kids and teens.
🍂 Red Jacket Mountain View Resort North Conway — A strong family pick with indoor and outdoor pools, an arcade, and Kahuna Laguna Water Park. Teens and younger kids will have plenty to do when you're not out exploring.
🍂 Eastern Slope Inn Resort North Conway — Right in the heart of North Conway Village, so you can walk to shops and restaurants. The resort has a classic New England feel and a variety of accommodations that work well for families.
🍂🏔️ Attitash Mountain Village Bartlett/North Conway — A good option for families who prefer condo-style lodging with more room to spread out. It has pools, recreational activities, and easy access to the White Mountains.
Packing Items to Consider:
Layers + cozy comfortable clothing
Packable hooded rain jackets
Extra water-resistant socks
Waterproof hiking or comfortable shoes
Small hiking backpack
Small packable windproof umbrella
Touchscreen gloves
Wet/dry bag
Travel binoculars
White Mountains trail map
HOCKING HILLS, OHIO
Mood: We need something different and unforgettable - golden leaves, epic waterfalls, cave exploration, and cozy cabin nights.
Dramatic sandstone cliffs, countless cascading waterfalls, cave exploration, and beautiful hiking trails make Hocking Hills a one-of-a-kind fall getaway. Explore the iconic Old Man’s Cave, wander through Ash Cave, and take in the towering cliffs and colorful foliage throughout the peaceful forest at Hocking Hills State Park. What makes Hocking Hills especially unique is the way its ancient sandstone formations, deep gorges, caves, and waterfalls create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly—especially when surrounded by brilliant fall color. Spend the day chasing waterfalls, exploring winding trails, and soaking up the spectacular scenery, then make a stop for fresh apple cider or apple slushies at Laurelville Fruit Company before retreating to a cozy cabin or treehouse surrounded by the woods. With peaceful evenings, brilliant stargazing, and plenty of outdoor adventure, Hocking Hills is the perfect place for families looking to be immersed in nature and experience something a little different this fall.
Typical Peak Foliage: Mid to late October
Lodging to Consider:
🍂The Oasis Hocking Hills — A family-friendly lakeside retreat offering spacious accommodations (cabins & treehouses), outdoor activities, and plenty of amenities to keep kids and teens entertained.
🍂Cherry Ridge Retreat — Luxury cabins, lots of privacy, hot tubs, trails, and a private pool. It has eight cabins, so there are options for different family sizes.
🍂Tree Houses at River Ranch — Most memorable for kids. Luxury treehouses with full kitchens, Wi-Fi, modern bathrooms, and on-site activities.
🍂Hocking Hills State Park Lodge & Conference Center — Best if you don’t want a private cabin. You get lodge/hotel accommodations plus cabins, pools, and other resort-style amenities, right in the state park.
Packing Items to Consider:
Layers + cozy comfortable clothing
Packable hooded rain jackets
Extra water-resistant socks
Waterproof hiking or comfortable shoes
Wet/dry bag
Small hiking backpack
Headlamp/flashlight (caves)
Binoculars (stargazing)
Star chart constellation guide (stargazing)
TELLURIDE, OURAY, & CRESTED BUTTE, COLORADO
Mood: We need a wild mountain adventure—golden aspens, towering peaks, waterfalls, hot
springs, and unreal scenery that makes the journey just as unforgettable as the destination.
If your family is ready for a fall road trip that feels completely different from New England, head west to Colorado. Telluride, Ouray, and Crested Butte create an unforgettable mini road trip through the San Juan Mountains, where brilliant golden aspens meet towering peaks, waterfalls, historic mining towns, and some seriously spectacular mountain roads. The San Juan Skyway connects the region and includes dramatic stretches around Ouray and Telluride. Start in Telluride, where you can wander the charming mountain town, ride the free gondola for incredible views, explore waterfalls, and take in the dramatic peaks surrounding the valley. Then make your way to Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” where families can explore Box Cañon Falls, soak in the hot springs, and experience the breathtaking Million Dollar Highway toward Silverton.
Finish your adventure in Crested Butte, where fall is all about golden aspen groves and wide-open mountain scenery. Take a scenic drive along Kebler Pass, explore the historic town of Gothic, hike one of the area's many trails, and enjoy the slower pace of this colorful mountain town. Kebler Pass is particularly spectacular in fall, winding through some of the area's largest aspen groves.
This is the kind of road trip where the drive itself becomes part of the adventure. Around every bend you'll find another mountain vista, golden hillside, or reason to pull over for a family photo.
Typical Peak Foliage: Last week in September to first week in October
Resorts to Consider:
🍂 Telluride — The Peaks Resort & Spa: A great family resort with indoor/outdoor pools, hot tubs, a waterslide, and plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring. It’s also close to the gondola connecting Mountain Village and Telluride.
🍂 Telluride — Madeline Hotel & Residences: A beautiful mountain resort with a family-friendly atmosphere and easy gondola access. The larger residences with kitchens and multiple bedrooms are especially nice for families.
🍁 Ouray — Ouray Riverside Resort: A fun choice for families who want a more outdoorsy experience. Choose from cabins, inn rooms, and other accommodations along the Uncompahgre River, with easy access to town and the hot springs.
🍁 Ouray — Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs: A cozy Ouray option with private hot spring tubs—perfect for relaxing after a day on the road or hiking. It’s also one of the better-reviewed family lodging choices in town.
🍂 Crested Butte — Lodge at Mountaineer Square: A convenient mountain base with spacious accommodations, a pool, hot tub, and easy access to hiking and outdoor activities. Families love the location and the extra space.
🍂 Crested Butte — Old Town Inn: A more relaxed and budget-friendly option that families consistently enjoy. It offers a cozy atmosphere, breakfast, and an easy home base for exploring Crested Butte.
Packing Items to Consider:
Packable hooded rain/wind jacket
Warm layers
Waterproof hiking shoes
Refillable water bottles
Small hiking daypack
Sunglasses + sunscreen
Trekking poles
Warm hat and gloves
Travel binoculars
MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE, NEW YORK
Mood: Give us old-world elegance, luxurious pampering, gourmet eats, and plenty of leisurely ways to soak up the fall season.
Another New York gem, Mohonk Mountain House is a destination in itself! Imagine leaf-peeping splendor surrounded by mountains, with miles of hiking trails, lake activities, beautiful gardens, an indoor heated pool, Kids’ Club, tennis, and a world-class spa—all set on a stunning Victorian castle estate overlooking Lake Mohonk. The resort's overnight stay experience includes three meals a day, with farm-to-table dining featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, plus afternoon tea and cookies. Families rave about the variety of activities and the fact that there's always something to do, while parents can sneak away for some much-needed relaxation at the spa. From guided hikes and outdoor adventures to cozy fires, seasonal activities, gorgeous mountain views, and incredible food, Mohonk Mountain House is the kind of resort where the resort really is the destination. You could easily spend your entire fall getaway here without ever needing to leave the property—and honestly, you may not want to! Sign us up!
Typical Peak Foliage: Mid to late October
Lodging to consider:
🍂 Mohonk Mountain House (wink)
Packing Items to Consider:
Layers and a warm sweater or fleece
Lightweight hooded rain jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimsuit
Dressier outfit for dinners
Sunscreen
Small daypack
Extra socks
Portable phone charger
Good book for relaxing
BLOWING ROCK, & NORTH CAROLINA HIGH COUNTRY
Mood: We want southern mountain charm, brilliant fall foliage, scenic drives, cozy cabins, and a little Appalachian adventure.
A sneaky gem? Why yes! Our Southern states know how to put on a gorgeous fall show, and the North Carolina High Country knows a thing or two about fall retreats. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock is the kind of charming mountain town that feels like a little escape from the everyday. Think brilliant fall foliage, winding mountain roads, cozy cabins, charming shops, local restaurants, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and plenty of outdoor adventures for the whole family. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, take in the incredible views from Grandfather Mountain, hunt for waterfalls at Linville Falls, or simply wander the charming streets of Blowing Rock. And if you're craving a true taste of fall, make a stop at The Orchard at Altapass along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Pick apples, sip fresh apple cider, grab a warm apple treat, and take in the spectacular mountain views. The high country is peaceful, beautiful, family-friendly, and just different enough to feel like you’ve discovered one of fall’s best-kept secrets.
Typical Peak Foliage: Mid to late October
Lodging to consider:
🍁Chetola Resort — A family favorite with spacious condos, an indoor pool, lake, trails, and beautiful mountain grounds.
🍁Hemlock Inn — A charming, family-owned inn in the heart of Blowing Rock, perfect for walking to shops and restaurants.
🍁Swiss Mountain Village — Cozy cabins and chalets with kitchens and plenty of space for a relaxed rustic mountain experience.
🍁The Getaway Blowing Rock — Modern townhome-style accommodations with more space and a convenient downtown location.
Packing Items to Consider:
Comfortable hiking shoes
Layers and warm sweaters
Lightweight hooded rain jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Small daypack
Refillable water bottle
Sunscreen & Sunglasses
Portable phone charger
Camera
Swimsuit if your resort has a pool
Cozy outfit for evenings
Reusable bag for apple orchard stops
BAR HARBOR, MAINE
Mood: We need coastal New England charm, brilliant fall foliage, rocky shorelines, fresh lobster, and a little Acadia adventure.
If you're looking for a fall getaway that gives you a little bit of everything, put Bar Harbor on your list. Charming coastal streets, colorful foliage, rugged ocean views, and the spectacular landscapes of Acadia National Park come together here in a way that's hard to beat. Spend your days driving the Park Loop Road, taking in the views from Cadillac Mountain, exploring Jordan Pond, or letting the kids experience the booming waves at Thunder Hole. Wander downtown Bar Harbor and along the Shore Path, take a scenic boat ride, or time your visit to walk across to Bar Island at low tide, finding incredible sea creatures along the way. And come hungry! This is the place to dig into a classic Maine lobster roll, warm popovers with blueberry jam, fresh seafood, and a slice of wild Maine blueberry pie. Bar Harbor is a magical place, and we know your family will fall in love with it.
Typical Peak Foliage: First two weeks of October
Lodging to Consider:
🍁 Bar Harbor Inn & Spa — Great location, waterfront views, pools, and easy walking to downtown.
🍁 Harborside Hotel & Marina — Best for families; waterfront location, pool, and plenty to do nearby.
🍁 Bar Harbor Regency — Good family option with a pool and easy access to Acadia.
🍁Wonder View Inn — More casual and budget-friendly, with beautiful views and a convenient location
Items to consider:
Packable windbreaker
Waterproof hiking shoes
Warm hiking socks
Lightweight hiking daypack
Touchscreen gloves
Sunglasses + sunscreen
Insulated water bottle
Travel binoculars
Windproof umbrella
So, what’s your family’s fall getaway mood? Whether you’re chasing colorful foliage, cozying up in a charming mountain town, exploring scenic trails, or simply soaking in those crisp autumn days, your perfect fall escape is waiting. All that’s left to do is grab your sweaters, pack the car, and start exploring! 🍁
Until our next "mood",
Cheers!
Martha
PS - Don't forget to PIN this post so you can find it later! Be sure to check out some of our other posts! Have a favorite fall getaway that didn’t make out list? Please share it in the comments!
Martha is a Family Travel Planner and Travel Blogger who loves creating unforgettable vacation experiences for families. When she’s not traveling or planning incredible getaways, she enjoys living life in beautiful Upstate NY with her husband, two boys, and two dogs.
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