Featured Image: Explore Boone
If there’s one word to describe fall in the South, it’s underrated. Though the Northeast typically gets the spotlight when the “ber” months roll around, the South is plenty charming and magical this time of year. Softer weather that stays perfectly crisp, Southern autumn classics like sweet potato pie, apple cider donuts, and hearty beef chili, and, of course, a sundry of different foliage.
With diverse mountain ranges, orchards aplenty, and country roads burning with the colors of fall, the South is the perfect place to stop and crunch some leaves.
When it’s time to plan your Southern autumnal getaway, check out these seven destinations for the ultimate fall foliage scenes.
Boone, North Carolina
Boone is one of those small towns that makes you want to sell it all and relocate. Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Watauga County, Boone is a small but mighty destination filled with great local fare, scenic overlooks, and plenty of small-town events. Just a few minutes outside of the charming downtown district, you’ll find Howard Knob Park, which has some of the best overlooks in the area (note: the park is currently closed for renovations). Another view you don’t want to miss? Blowing Rock is a hot spot just a few minutes outside of Boone. After jaw-dropping at the view of the Johns River Gorge, visit the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum to enjoy some regional artwork.
Check out our comprehensive guide for everywhere to eat, stay, and play in Boone.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
We understand if the mountains are calling this fall, but instead of joining the droves of tourists in Gatlinburg, consider altering course just a hair or taking a day to cruise the Foothills Parkway in Pigeon Forge. When you’re done enjoying Dollywood (because that’s surely a must-do), take an hour drive down the parkway until you reach Look Rock Tower. With views of the Tennessee River Valley and the Smoky Mountains, it’s one of the South’s best fall foliage experiences.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville has something to offer all kinds of travelers: classic Southern charm, mouthwatering dining options, natural beauty, and more. Plus, its vibrant culture and inland location make it a quintessential autumn travel destination. Within a short driving distance, you can make a stop at Travelers Rest, a festive fall destination complete with apple orchards, farmers markets, and plenty of spots to see the colors of autumn scattered across the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Charlotte, North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway has several access points south of the Mason-Dixon Line, which makes it a no-brainer for autumn road trips. Starting your journey in Charlotte is sure to set you up for success. You can kick off your trip enjoying all the eats, drinks, and activities the city has to offer before hopping in your car and taking in the colorful views along the parkway. We recommend stopping off at the exit for Craggy Gardens, where the jagged rocks, mangled trees, and expansive overlooks make for a worthy photo op.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Careful, the historic town square in this quaint Georgia locale might make you think you’re in a Hallmark movie. With plenty of local shops, restaurants, vineyards, and more, there is plenty to do before you make your way to the scenic spots in the surrounding mountains. Dahlonega is a neighbor to the Chattahoochee National Forest with trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
Pro tip: Book a local ghost tour if you want to get a little spooky before Halloween! Dahlonega Walking Tours has plenty of options, even if haunted locales aren’t your thing.
Berea, Kentucky
Fall festivals, historic buildings, and a location in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains make Berea a delightful fall destination. The picturesque Anglin Falls and Berea Pinnacles Trail put fall colors on full display, but for one of the South’s most stunning fall views, visit the Indian Fort Lookout at sunset when the sky matches the autumnal hues of the trees. This is a city you’ll want to stay a while, so book a stay at the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant, Crafted.
Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez is home to some of Mississippi’s most stellar restaurants, historic sites, and storied mansions that’ll blast you right back to the past. Located near the banks of the Mississippi, the surrounding river bluffs offer stunning panoramic views dotted with autumnal colors. Make sure to check out some of the local farmers markets, vineyards, and local events while you’re there. Then, hop on the Natchez Trace Parkway, which begins its winding journey to Nashville in the heart of town and is famous for being at its peak beauty in the fall.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a pumpkin spice treat in a cozy town square, take a few days to hike some mountain trails, or soak up local history on your leaf hunting venture, the South has plenty to offer when it comes to autumn getaways. Pack your coat, grab a camera, and make your way down to enjoy the best of Southern hospitality and all the best colors of fall.
Find more Southern travel inspiration here.
