Leaf-peeping season is upon us. Where are you staying for the best view?

Wherever you decide to do your leaf peeping, make sure your stay is as Autumnal as possible!

Mark

Sep 22, 2024 - 20:00

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Leaf-peeping season is upon us. Where are you staying for the best view?

A stunning shot of the Shenandoah Valley — Photo via: Go Stowe

The sweltering days of Summer are drawing to a close, and as the days get shorter and the air crisper, we can’t help but get excited for Fall! Autumn offers many comforts, from cozy sweaters and fuzzy socks to yummy drinks everyone loves no matter what they say.

One of the season’s most exciting and awe-inspiring gifts is the changing of the leaves. People travel all over to witness these impressive natural displays.

Some flock to small picturesque New England towns that look straight out of a movie, while others trek into the Rocky Mountains to enjoy the magnificent Aspen groves. Wherever you decide to do your leaf peeping, ensure your stay is as Autumnal as possible!

Pack your bags, we’re going on an adventure

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Here are a few favorite spots to fully embrace the season and witness the majesty of the trees.

Stowe, VT

Vermont is as endearing as it is quintessentially Autumnal. Peppered with adorable small towns and villages that have upheld their historic charm, it was hard to decide where to visit for the best leaf experience. Stowe is a lovely little town with an exceptionally long window for the leaves changing, offering bursts of yellow, orange, and red from early September to late October.

The Stone Hill Inn is a full-service B&B, offering guests a quiet and romantic venue for the ideal Fall vacation. Surrounded by woods and gardens dotted with ponds and flowers, the grounds feature dazzling views of natural splendor. Each room boasts a giant jacuzzi tub and king beds, enriching the romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Once you’re done checking in, head to the main street in town to enjoy the enchanting local businesses and gorgeous views.

Aspen, CO

A stunning view of a lake surrounded by changing leaves and a massive mountain range being lit by the sun — Photographer: NickLucey.com

Colorado is famous for beautiful mountain trails, crystalline lakes, and stunning summit views. If you’re looking for the full Colorado experience, you can’t do much better than the premier resort town of Aspen. Celebrities and locals alike flock to this paradise nestled deep in the Rocky Mountains. It’s about a 5-hour drive from Denver, but so worth it if you’re looking for truly magical views. Aptly named Aspen for the glorious groves that populate the hills and valleys, there is never a bad day for photos and a hike up here. There are tons of LGBTQ+-friendly resorts and hotels in town; it just depends on what kind of adventure you want!

If you’d like to experience old-school, no-frills, mountain vibes then you can’t go wrong with booking at Tyrolean Lodge. Located on the main street, this charming family-owned and operated inn is a 5-minute walk from shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Although it isn’t as flashy as some of the mega hotels that have popped up over the years, the Tryolean Lodge expertly and effortlessly evokes the spirit of the old West and puts you right in the heart of leaf-peeping country.

Whidbey Island, WA

An adorable cow stares at the camera surrounded by big orange pumpkins — Photo via Coupeville Chamber of Commerce

The PNW offers some of the most stunning views and outdoor marvels year-round, and Autumn is the crown jewel of the seasons. Haven’t you ever wanted to live a few days in your favorite movie? There have been a slew of sets/shots in the Pacific Northwest that all capture a different natural energy. The 1985 film The Goonies was brought to life in the charming seaside town of Astoria, Oregon, a fantastic community and a great place to see the leaves change. Of course, there’s Forks, Washington made famous by the Twilight series, but no other movie emulates what Autumn is all about like the 1998 classic Practical Magic.

Spend a weekend wandering the streets of Whidbey Island, a charming town full of character, where much of the movie was filmed. Book a few nights at the Captain Whidbey Inn; a delightful B&B overlooking Penn Cove and the surrounding forests. During the Fall, the entire area erupts in magnificent color, so book now and start getting excited!

@fromabolivian
I had to visit Coupeville, WA again because I love Practical Magic! Got all the fall cozy seaside vibes while exploring Whidbey Island #washington #coupeville #travelguide #fallseason #practicalmagicmovie #fallaesthetic #practicalmagictown #roadtripideas #traveltok #fallvibes #practicalmagic #travellife #autumnvibes ♬ original sound – Silly

Charles Town, WV

A beautiful outdoor shot from the sky of a waterfall surrounded by trees. The leaves on many of the trees have changed to orange — Photo via: West Virginia Tourism

No leaf-peeping list would be complete without a mention of the Appalachian mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Are you ready for a unique experience? Let’s try something different and stay at a 285-year-old farmhouse complete with pigs and chickens.

Whether you want to help with the farm chores or not, Oldeststone Farm offers guests the exciting opportunity to reconnect with nature. Nestled on 46 acres of pristine leaf-peeping land, you’ll get the chance to gather eggs for breakfast, cuddle with kittens, and go for long walks with the farm dogs.