The cooler weather is finally starting to come to Dallas and it’s inspiring all the fall vibes! While we do get a few weeks of fall weather and changing leaves here in North Texas, there are so many places to visit to experience fall in all its beauty! Here are a few of my favorite fall destinations around the U.S.
Telluride, Colorado
Before the snow hits, the mountains and forests of Colorado change into an amazing autumn landscape! Telluride offers the perfect destination for those who want a little bit of adventure.
EAT: Grab a Daymaker breakfast sandwich at The Butcher & The Baker to kick off the day! Have lunch and a local beer at Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery. And be sure to make a sunset reservation at Allred’s and dine at 10,000 feet!
STAY: Madeline Hotel offers spectacular mountain views, an amazing spa and a heated pool and hot tub overlooking the gorgeous landscape. A truly luxurious getaway!
DO: There’s definitely lots of hiking, but a great way to experience the fall foliage is to take the gondola to the top of the mountain! 360 degree views all the way up – it doesn’t get much better than that!
Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine boasts some of the U.S.’s most beautiful fall foliage and is truly a sight to see! From hikes through the forests to bike rides around the quaint town, you’ll constantly be surrounded by gorgeous golds and reds.
EAT: For breakfast, grab a coffee and pastries at Tandem Coffee, a local favorite that roasts their own coffee! Grab lunch at Luke’s Lobster on the Portland Pier and enjoy amazing seafood with a view. Scales is another gorgeous seafood spot. Sign us up for all the lobster please!
STAY: If you’re looking for old world charm and elegance, The Inn on Carleton is a perfect spot! Cozy up with a hot drink in front of their fireplace and experience a true getaway!
DO: Take a driving tour starting in Portland throughout the area to get the best fall foliage views! And be conscientious about checking for ticks, especially on your children and pets!
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a great option if you don’t want to rent a car and prefer city strolling to hiking! And even though I was raised in the South, I was born in Cambridge, Massachussetts–Boston is also a part of my roots! Not only is it brimming with history but when the leaves change colors, the views are absolutely spectacular. Break out your new coats and boots because this fall weather is the perfect excuse!
EAT: Grab brunch at North Street Grille and enjoy their extensive menu of brunch themed cocktails, and be sure to order some of their unique dishes like the Boston Cream pancakes! Dine at Faccia Brutta for the ultimate Italian seafood experience.
STAY: The Fairmont Copley Plaza is a gorgeous historic hotel dating back to 1912. The location is perfect for sight seeing all over the city!
DO: Check out the fall colors at Boston Common and the Esplanade, go shopping along Newbury Street, and walk along the Freedom Trail to learn about our nation’s beginnings! And always check for an interesting speaker series or performance at one of the historical theatres or universities around town.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont is the quintessential small New England town which makes it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle and make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time!
EAT: Butler’s Pantry is the perfect spot to start your day with a cup of coffee and french toast topped with Vermont Maple syrup. Have lunch at Idletyme Brewing Company and try some local Stowe beer! End your day with dinner at Cork Restaurant & Natural Wine Shop and even bring a bottle home with you!
STAY: The Green Mountain Inn in the heart of Stowe Village offers a cozy retreat after a day of foliage hunting, and they even have fireplaces in the rooms! You’ll feel right at home in this quaint property.
DO: In addition to the various hiking trails and winding roads through the gorgeous fall foliage, Stowe offers the opportunity to get an up close and personal experience by ziplining through the forest! A must-do for those with an adventurous spirit.
Portland, Oregon
This west coast option (and additional Portland!) is another great spot to catch the fall foliage. Portland is a bustling city boasting an amazing food and beverage scene, and is absolutely stunning in the fall!
EAT: Head to Cafe Olli for a delicious locally sourced brunch before you start your day. Enjoy an amazing dinner at Arden for a truly unique and delicious culinary experience!
STAY: If you’re looking for a chic and trendy spot, The Hoxton is a perfect option! The design is gorgeous and is located right in the heart of the historic Old Town district!
DO: Be sure to visit the Japanese Garden to see the famous Autumn Tree – the most photographed tree in the city!
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina is an excellent destination for fall foliage sightings! This town is packed with fun things to do all surrounded by gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge mountains!
EAT: For breakfast, check out Vortex Bakery for coffee and a delicious donut! Grab a fun lunch downtown at Pack’s Tavern and end your day at Rhubarb, a chic spot for the freshest locally sourced ingredients!
STAY: The Grand Bohemian Hotel is part of the Marriott Autograph Collection and a truly unique property! Plus, it’s located right next to the Biltmore Estate for easy access.
DO: Take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop for all the photo ops. The fall colors really pop along the blue mountains! Touring the Biltmore Estate is a must-do when in town! From wine tasting to art exhibits, The Biltmore is a spectacular sight to see!
Pasadena, California
For a warmer fall destination, check out Pasadena, California! If you follow our Instagram, you saw that we were just there for a family wedding last weekend! The weather was perfect, and it’s much less crowded than other parts of Southern California – plus, there are tons of fun things to do and see without the typical “LA” hustle and bustle.
EAT: Brunch at Magnolia House for fun cocktails and great food! For dinner, The Royce is a chic steakhouse that will make even us Texans happy. But our favorite was a recent lunch at Gale’s Restaurant where we enjoyed a long Italian lunch (even got a glimpse of Diane Keaton!) and enjoyed the Pasadena Antique Mall next door for an afternoon shopping stop a bit off the main Old Town square.
STAY: The Langham Huntington hotel is a luxury escape that makes you forget you’re just outside of Los Angeles. The sprawling grounds, 5-star spa and multiple dining options make this the perfect stay! We also enjoyed daily strolls through the surrounding neighborhood, which includes the iconic home from Father of the Bride!
DO: The Huntington Library and Gardens is a can’t-miss! The grounds contain 16 themed botanical gardens to get lost in for the day. There are plenty of shops and res Old Pasadena is also a great way to spend the day! The neighborhood has really kept it’s small town charm!
Which destination are you most excited to visit? Let us know if you head to any of these amazing fall spots by tagging @lolliandme in your posts on Facebook and Instagram!