If you’ve been following along at all, you know I’m obsessed with autumn. Something else I’m obsessed with? Road trips. As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better time, in my opinion, to embark on a road trip. The season offers a picturesque backdrop perfect for a brain reset, a great picture, and some creative inspiration. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to unwind, a fall road trip has something for everyone. Here are five ideas of how to fill that time!
- Explore Scenic Drives
One of the coolest aspects of a fall road trip is the opportunity to witness nature’s breathtaking transformation. Set your gps along scenic byways and highways that wind through forests and mountain ranges. In the United States, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana’s Glacier National Park are just a few of the many routes that offer beyond gorgeous autumn vistas. Be sure to pack a camera!
- Visit Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch or apple orchard. These charming venues offer a host of fun activities and the nostalgia factor is through the roof. You can pick your own apples, select the perfect pumpkin for carving, or indulge in apple cider donuts and freshly pressed cider. The experience of wandering through rows of trees laden with ripe fruit or fields filled with plump pumpkins is a quintessential fall activity that feels straight out of a movie. Go live your main character dreams!
- Explore Historic Sites and Small Towns
Autumn is an ideal time to immerse yourself in some history and explore small towns with their own unique charm. Many historic sites and villages take on a special allure during the autumn season. Consider visiting colonial towns like Williamsburg, Virginia, or heading to New England to explore towns such as Salem, Massachusetts, known for their…rich history and seasonal festivities. These places often host autumn-themed events and festivals, making them even more appealing during this time of year.
- Enjoy Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Fall is the perfect season for outdoor enthusiasts. Temps that won’t make you feel like you’re dying? Check. Great views? Check. National parks and nature reserves offer a wide range of activities, from leisurely strolls through colorful forests to challenging hikes to scenic viewpoints.
- Savor Seasonal Cuisine
Autumn is synonymous with comfort food, and your road trip is an excellent opportunity to savor some new-to-you regional specialties. Indulge in dishes like pumpkin pie, apple crisp, butternut squash soup (a personal fave of mine), and hearty stews at local restaurants or roadside diners. Be sure to also explore the local farmers’ markets, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods unique to the region you’re visiting. And you know the cafes are full to bursting with seasonal treats. Don’t miss the chance to sip on seasonal beverages like mulled cider or pumpkin-spiced lattes.