Every year for the past 8 years, my sisters and I have taken a road trip the first week in October. We all look forward to this every year, and start planning in the summer because we just can´t wait to hit the road. Even with all our planning, we have never failed to get lost at least once during each trip. Our GPS loves to take us on the back roads because it might be one minute faster than taking the interstate, but on those back roads is where we see the real America. Based off these road trips and other treks along the way, I have compiled a list of the Top 5 Fall Road Trip Destinations.
5. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park in October has all the autumn colors you hope to see on a fall road trip. There are multiple hiking trails for every level expertise, from beginner to advanced. There are dirt path trails that take you to see breathtaking waterfalls, rocky trails that take you to see beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and grassy trails in the vast Big Meadow. No matter what trail you choose to hike, you are going to see mesmerizing fall colors and unforgettable views.
When staying in Shenandoah National Park, there are different lodging accommodations from which to choose. There are individual yurt style houses, and rooms more similar to a hotel type room. We stayed in the connected rooms, which were comfy and had everything we needed for a few days stay.
While at Shenandoah National Park, make sure to eat at the restaurant on site...they have delicious options! There are a few cute little souvenir shops to browse through, and a commons area to sit and read, drink your morning coffee, or play board games with travel buddies.
4. Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a popular vacation spot for families all summer long, but hit the island in October, and you will basically get the beach to yourself. The sunrises and sunsets over the beach are simply astounding. Since it was ¨dead season¨ we got a great rate on a hotel room right next to the pier overlooking the beach.
One thing you definitely want to do while on the island is visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. You will most certainly get your steps in while walking to the top of the lighthouse, but the views are worth it once you get to the top. There were also still several shops open that you could peruse, including a quaint spot for sitting and enjoying yummy ice cream.
Our favorite thing to do is walk around and see all the cute beach cottages. It was great exercise, and completely free!
3. Nashville
Nashville is probably on every road trip list out there. But there are just so many things to do there! There´s the obvious attractions, like the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Opry Mills shopping mall. But there are several other attractions that you need to add to your to-do list while visiting Nashville.
Ascend Amphitheater has quickly become one of my favorite outdoor concert venues. This attraction is located right on the Cumberland River, with chair seating or lawn seating (bring a blanket or a lawn chair). They have outdoor concerts all summer and have events scheduled throughout the month of October.
The Parthenon in Nashville is also a great stop to make if you´ve never been. The grounds are beautiful, and are perfect for a picnic or an impromptu photo shoot. While strolling along the property is free, there is an entrance fee to actually visit the Parthenon.
Finally, my favorite place to visit in Nashville, especially in the fall, is Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. This attraction is simply beautiful. I love to walk through the gardens and feel instantly relaxed. The best part about visiting Cheekwood in the fall is that they have the Cheekwood Harvest. They have events all throughout October for people of all ages, and there really is something for everyone.
2. Mackinac Island
I know what you may be thinking...Mackinac Island is where my grandma vacations, not where I want to vacation! Well let me just say, if you don´t go to Mackinac Island in the fall, you are truly missing out. The ferry ride to the island alone might be worth the trip!
Mackinac Island is a historic little town bustling with activity. However, you won´t see any cars there blocking the streets. That´s because motorized vehicles are not allowed on the island. To get around you either have to walk, rent a bicycle, or ride in a horse and buggy.
Mackinac Island is a great day trip for those exploring the upper peninsula of Michigan. Visit the multitude of cute shops, eat at one of a kind restaurants, and make sure to get some fudge for the ferry ride back!
And Number One...Acadia National Park
The absolute best place to visit in the fall (in my personal opinion) is Acadia National Park. This heavenly park is located just off the coast of Maine. When we went, we stayed at Bar Harbor, which was a beautiful place in itself.
Acadia has multiple trails to hike, with multiple ones to choose from at every level. The Park Loop road circles the East side of Mount Desert Island, making it easy to hit multiple trails in a day. Our favorite spot on this tour was Cadillac Mountain. It´s high elevation allows you to get spectacular views of the eastern seaboard.
Driving through the park offers perfect scenery of the fall foliage, and makes a great picnic spot.
If you go, make sure to read all signs prior to starting a trail. Some trails are for very experienced hikers, so make sure to stick to trails that fit your level of comfort.
And that´s it! The Top 5 Fall Road Trip Destinations. If you have been to one of these places, let me know how you liked it! If there´s somewhere else you love to go in the fall, I´d love to hear it so I can add it to my travel list.
