9 Long Weekend Destinations for Fall

Stowe is one of those places that looks more like the set of a Hallmark movie than real life. The picturesque mountain town is small enough to give you the quant getaway you’re after but also established enough to  have every amenity you’d ever want. In Stowe, guests can either go small by staying at The Green Mountain Inn, a luxurious but small inn located in the center of town. Or, they can go big by booking a few nights at Top Notch Resort and Spa. There, guests can indulge in spa treatments, take a horseback ride, play tennis at the club, or go for a mountain adventure led by one of its experts to Mt. Mansfield. No matter what activity you choose just make sure to get outside and see the spectacular fall colors splash across the mountain range. 

If you’re hoping to capture the last vestiges of summer sunshine this fall there’s no better place to get it than Laguna Beach, California. Located about halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna is a year-round paradise thanks to its average temperatures that never really fall below 70 degrees and never really get above 80 degrees. It’s also a place where the best thing to do is sit on the beach, watch the surfers catch a few swells, and potentially see a gray whale or two. Spend a few nights on the beach at The Inn at Laguna Beach, a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of town. Or, book a few days at the Montage Laguna Beach, an American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts property, where you can relax in the spa, sit by the pool, grab a surf lesson, and more.

Reno Tahoe is an ideal fall weekend for those looking to both get outside and those looking to find a little culture. In the city, check into the Renaissance Reno Downtown. The hotel helps ensure guests see every hidden artistic gem by guiding them on a street art tour with Art Spot Reno. While out, guests will see colorful murals painted around town, as well as a park filled with decommissioned creations from Burning Man. When you’ve had your fill of art it’s time to check out Mother Nature’s handy work. In Reno Tahoe take a bike or hike through the scenic trails of the Tahoe Pyramid Bikeway, which runs along the Truckee River in Reno all the way to North Lake Tahoe. Then, head back to the hotel for a well-deserved massage.

Sure, Aspen may be a winter paradise thanks to its world-class ski mountains, but it’s also an autumn heaven too. From September to early November, Aspen’s treeline appears to set on fire with stunning colors from reds to yellows and deep, rich browns. It’s a time when visitors can come and still enjoy the last bits of summer warmth during a hike or bike, but also cozy up by an outdoor firepit during the increasingly crisp nights. In Aspen, book a stay with the St. Regis Aspen, an American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts property. The five-star luxury resort is located right at the base of Aspen Mountain, giving guests the best access to the mountain and town. But, for a bit more of a secluded adventure visitors could book a stay at the Viceroy Snowmass, located about 20 minutes from the center of Aspen. Either way, just make sure to book a morning hot air balloon ride to get the best view of the fall foliage below.

Destin is the new spot to be for a bit of beach-side magic. The community, located near the edge of the Panhandle, offers visitors blindingly white sand beaches and tropical blue-green waters that are more reminiscent of a tropical getaway than a domestic vacation. Beyond the beaches, the town of Destin comes with plenty of Southern charm and hospitality. Visitors can explore the community for gulf-to-table dining, nightlife, or shopping. On the flip side, those looking for adventure can also take to the water for plenty of aquatic activities like jet skiing and dolphin cruises. Book a stay at The The Henderson, located on nearly two miles of beach.

Newport may be best known for its summertime jazz festival, sailing regattas, and mansions, but don’t let the cooler weather fool you; this place is made for fall too. Fall in Newport means fewer visitors, but way more space to roam free. With fewer people, visitors will get front-row access on mansion tours, or could be totally alone on the Newport Cliff Walk, or even be able to cozy up with a sweater and sit on Second Beach and be the only person for miles. Of course, if visitors would rather be where the people are they can do that too at places like Gurney’s Newport. The expansive resort on Goat Island is home to one of the best and most popular waterside bars in town. The resort also has a full-service spa, an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, and more. Book your stay in early October when the weather is just right and you could be spending your day at the beach and evening leaf-peeping around Newport. 

Portland, Oregon is one of those places that is great to visit all year long. However, its quick access to stunning parks —that also come with stunning fall foliage — means the autumn season is really the time to go. From Portland, visitors can quickly get to and from Smith Rock State Park, Mount Hood, and Mount Rainer National Park. After spending the day hiking and checking out the scenery, visitors can return to Portland to feast on delicious bites at Assembly Brewing. There, they can dig into a pizza and wash it down with a local Oregon craft brew. Then, check into The Heathman, a historic hotel located in the heart of town. 

If getting a bird’s eye view of the world below is on your bucket list then Albuquerque is the place for you this fall. Each year, the town hosts its famed Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. It’s often regarded as both the largest and most famous hot air balloon festival in the world. Each year, more than 500 balloon owners take to the early morning skies in a sight too stunning to explain. The festival also includes live music, games, and of course hot air balloon rides for visitors. The event typically takes place over the first two weekends of October. The 2019 event will begin on Saturday, October 5. To be as close to the action as possible book a stay at the Hotel Albuquerque. Not only is it located near the balloon festival, but it also has every amenity guests would ever desire from a luxury property to boot.  

Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains, travelers can find the breathtaking natural gem that is the Shenandoah Valley. While there are plenty of reasons to visit the region, both in the fall and all year long, people really only come here for one reason: To spend time in the great outdoors. The Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the most pristine natural landscapes in America, making it a hiking and camping paradise. The region is also home to a number of caverns along the mountains to explore. Guests can sign up for guided tours to see the rock formations for themselves. In Shenandoah, book a stay at the Big Meadows Lodge, a mountain camp offering numerous outdoor activities from horseback riding, hiking, and night sky viewing events.