12 US Cities With the Most Colorful Autumn Scenery 2024

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Visit the right US city at the right time, and you can savor a spectacular show of fall color. There are popular leaf-peeping destinations spread across the US, from the more obvious New England locations to states such as Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and more.

Whether you want to witness the stunning sights by taking a scenic drive or would rather admire the colorful canopies downtown, the best US cities to visit in autumn await. From golden aspens to red maple trees, here are 12 places to add to your fall must-visit list.

Stowe, Vermont

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Stowe in Vermont is surely the quintessential fall getaway. The leaves turn all shades of yellow, gold, orange, bronze, and red, which contrast beautifully against the pretty, traditional New England buildings. See the foliage at its finest by driving along Smugglers’ Notch Road or head up Mount Mansfield by gondola between late September and October.

Boston, Massachusetts

As you might expect, Boston is often used as a base for seeing the superlative fall foliage in New England. But the city itself is equally dazzling, with displays of foliage at their finest during mid-October. Boston Common, by the water, is simply unmissable.

Leavenworth, Washington

Make the Evergreen State your autumn destination if you want to see stunning fall foliage in every hue, from golden yellow to deep red. Red maple trees line the banks of the Wenatchee River, while the shores of Lake Wenatchee are awash with all sorts of autumnal shades. Fall is early here, so come between late September and early October for a spectacular show.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Set against a mountainous backdrop, the Tennessee city of Gatlinburg offers incredible fall colors. The cool, crisp weather causes the trees to change from mid-October, with the autumn leaf-peeping season peaking in early November.

Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

US Cities with the Most Colorful Autumn Scenery Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — © f11photo / Adobe Stock

Expect every shade of yellow metal and fire in Pittsburgh. October is when the magic happens here, and a trip of city parks – Frick Park, Point State Park, and Riverview Park – offer fabulous, fantastical fall foliage. If that’s not enough, make a pilgrimage out of town to the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway.

Denver, Colorado

Everything is golden in this part of Colorado—from Golden Gate Canyon State Park to Georgetown’s gilt-hued aspen trees. Georgetown is at its best from late September to mid-October, while fall in the city peaks between early October and mid-November. Follow the Cherry Creek bike trail or wander through the parks to witness the most colorful displays.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The city of Portsmouth in New Hampshire is one for those who like to explore downtown while enjoying a dizzying palette of fall colors. Make your way to Prescott Park any time in October, and you’ll be treated to some of New England’s best autumn foliage.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Take a break in Flagstaff during fall, and you’ll see colors that rival the Grand Canyon. Expert every hue from ocher to terracotta and cerise, and the golden aspen trees are a particular highlight. The best places to see the natural phenomenon include the arboretum, the Nordic Village, the downtown district, Arizona Snowbowl, and Northern Arizona University.

Asheville, North Carolina

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This North Carolina city sits among the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the fall colors during late September and early October are spectacular. You can enjoy the autumn foliage here without venturing out of your way, as many of the most vibrant trees can be found in the arty, historic downtown district.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is a paradise for lovers of nature and the outdoor lifestyle. But the Oregon city really comes into its own during fall, when fabulous colors decorate the Historic Columbia River Highway and the Multnomah Falls Trail. Head here between mid-October and early November for the best experience. In the city, don’t miss Hoyt Arboretum or Portland Japanese Garden.

Lake Placid, New York

You’ll have a full month when choosing Lake Placid as your favorite fall destination. Head to the Adirondack Mountains city between mid-September and mid-October for the full-on effect. The summit of Mount Jo offers sweeping views, or take a trip along the Olympic Trail Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping panoramas.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva is a fall playground, offering much more than mere leaf-peeping opportunities. Boat trips allow you to admire the autumnal hues from the water or take a zipline ride to see the colorful landscape whizzing by at top speed. The harvest season also means corn mazes, pumpkin or apple picking for the kids, and wine tasting for the grown-ups.