The Definitive Guide to Fall Getaways

Pearl Morisette

Just an hour and a half down the QEW highway, Niagara is an easy and enjoyable weekend getaway. And while many people travel there to visit the famous waterfalls, our personal preference is Pearl Morisette, one of our favorite vineyards that is helping to pioneer the natural wine movement in Canada. It’s under-the-radar (the entrance isn’t even marked by a sign), but worth the trip even if you don’t consider yourself a wine connoisseur–the restaurant, which serves a rotating seasonal menu, is excellent as well.

Prince Edward County

Located in Southern Ontario, Prince Edward County is one of Canada’s newest wine regions. From award-winning wineries to local artisan eats, this getaway rural, relaxing, and of course, unique. Be sure to stay at the Lakeside Motel or The Royal Hotel.

Algonquin Provincial Park

If you’re looking for a city escape (and some leaf peeping), escape the city and head to Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s just a three-hour drive north of Toronto and offers endless trails to hike and explore. If it’s too chilly to camp or stay in a cabin, you can rest easy in a resort nearby in Huntsville. (We love Deerhurst.)

Ojai

Ojai is the ultimate R&R spot within driving distance from LA (it’s just an hour and 45 minutes drive). Visit in the fall for stunning views of the Topatopa Mountains–and while you’re there, be sure to check out the local art galleries. Plus, Ojai has lots of lavender fields, which takes classic fall colors to a whole new level.

Idyllwild

You can’t leave Idyllwild without endless options for Instagrams. It is SO picturesque; check out their feed to see for yourself. This small, cozy town is cuddled in between the great pines of the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County. It offers hiking, dining, and a chance to disconnect and rejuvenate.

Big Bear

Big Bear promises that they are “falltacular,” and I can’t help but agree. The fall foliage makes this the ultimate leaf peeping destination in SoCal. Big Bear is in close proximity to beautiful hiking trails and lots of delicious local eats.

Staycation

There are few places that rival fall in Vermont. So, for me, I prefer to soak it all in with a good old staycation. If you’re visiting, be sure to drive through Stowe for beautiful views of classic New England fall foliage or be blown away by the Great Vermont Corn Maze.

Kennebunkport, ME

The best part about autumn in New England? The drives are almost as good as the destination. We love to escape to Kennebunkport in the fall when the summer crowd has returned to the cities and we can enjoy those coastal views without all the madness.