NEST POINT

Often when people think about fall trips they immediately shift their focus to New England. This isn’t surprising, the Northeast is known for its vibrant tree colors, crisp morning air, thoughtfully decorated streets and the coziest coffee shops. It’s more or less the capital of fall and thousands of visitors are going there each year to witness the beauty. However, due to its popularity it might end up being a more financially heavy pull as the hotels are getting booked up and the prices rise. The monuments and other well known areas may be crowded as everyone is trying to get a glimpse of the autumn landmarks. 

Autumn trips should be relaxing and not necessarily breaking the bank, it’s that trip of the year when the focus falls on tranquility. In addition, fall trips are commonly not known as the “main” trip of the year but rather a longer weekend getaway. Therefore overspending might not be the most financially sound investment. Certainly this does not mean you should completely skip your pilgrimage to witness the fall foliage. You can simply choose another route and get a similar if not even better experience. 

Where should you go then? Here’s a quick list of excellent options for a fall weekend getaway trip. 

Ohio

Best time to go there:

Mid-October to early November. If you are headed more northeast like Cuyahoga Valley, you might want to target October rather than November. However, if you are visiting Amish country in southern Ohio, you might have better luck seeing the peak color in early November.

Places to visit:

• Hocking Hills America’s Byway – This route is one filled with multiple stops and more than a handful of beautiful views.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park – This park is located right outside of Cleveland, so if you are looking to do a fall trip that has nature as well as city amenities this is the perfect spot for you.
• Millersburg – On the other hand, if you want to escape all the hustle and bustle, Amish country will be the best fit for you. A landscape covered in rolling hills and leaf’s blowing in the breeze, makes it look just like a scene from a jigsaw puzzle.

Wisconsin 

Best time to go there:

Late-September to Mid-October. Same thing here as with Ohio and any other state, if you are travelling to the northern parts of the state, plan to visit earlier in the timeframe and vice versa with the southern parts of the state.

Places to visit: 

• Door County – This is a well known destination in Wisconsin throughout the year, but fall definitely spices it up. Giving you all the New England vibes with being right next to Lake Michigan, surrounded by incredible nature and charming towns.
• Bayfield Peninsula – Located in the northern part of Wisconsin that many might be forgetting about. This area is home to the famous Apostle Islands Maritime Forests State Natural Area, which offers plenty of rocky coastal views, creating a magical contrast with the autumn leaves.
• Madison – For all you city lovers that still want to capture the autumn ambiance, Madison should be on your list. Known for its university, this area is packed with great food scene, park walks by the lakes and pretty much any other fall activity you can think of.

Michigan 

Best time to go there:

For the northern lower Peninsula including Traverse City, you want to be out there in early to mid October to catch the peak. This goes for Holland as well, even though it’s located further south from Traverse City the timing is more or less the same.

Places to visit:

• Traverse City – Probably one of my personal favorites. You are driving distance from some great national monuments like the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Michigan Overlook which also features a covered bridge nestled into the fall foliage. It’s called the Empire Covered Bridge and you don’t want to miss it!
• Mackinac Island – A beloved summer vacation spot, but an astonishing fall destination. Far away from the sound of rubber meeting the road, just an occasional clip-clop from the passing horses or the waves crashing into the shore. At this island you can truly disconnect.
• Holland – Speaking of crisp air, Lake Michigan does not hold back when it comes to that. Located right on the water and featuring that cozy small town feel while still having plenty of nature to offer, this might be the perfect middle ground. Imagine renting a cabin right on the water, watching the sunset while sipping your hot cocoa (or any other drink you may prefer!).

Whether you are a nature lover and want to spend your autumn days outside admiring the changing colors or a city person getting a glimpse of the foliage while nestling in at a coffee shop. These midwestern states check all the boxes and then some. At a generally lower price, while avoiding the bigger crowds; Ohio, Wisconsin or Michigan might be the perfect fall destinations for you.

If you are looking into travelling or booking a trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at stephanie.mottram@fora.travel and I will help you put together the perfect itinerary for you or the whole family so you can focus on relaxing.