While the scorching days of summer seem like the opposite of fall bliss, travelers are already looking ahead to the next season and planning Escapes under the fall foliage in the United States — and this year's top destinations are spread across the country, according to Price line.
Online travel agency search volume data revealed that Bucks County, Pennsylvaniais the most popular getaway for leaf peepers. Located less than an hour's drive from Philadelphia and about 90 minutes from New York City, the area is known for its 12 Historic Covered Bridges from the 19th century, which provide a perfect backdrop for the hues of the falling leaves.
Other unique ways to admire the county's colors are hot air balloons with Hot Air Balloon Rides in Lancaster over the Delaware River and on New Hope RailroadPhiladelphia's fall foliage rides aboard a vintage 1920s train. Priceline data shows that round-trip flights cost an average of $309 per person to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), and car rentals average $84 per day.
The runner-up spot is on the other side of the country, in North Lake Tahoe, which is located in both California and Nevada. Here, visitors can go hiking Tahoe National ForestThe Donner Pass, biking at Northstar Ski Resort in Californiaor go zipline through colorful canopiesThe closest airport is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) in Reno, Nevada, with flights averaging $416 and rental cars for $95.
Back on the East Coast, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, came in third, especially for its views of the White Mountains. The town located at the foot of the highest peak in the northeast was once a favorite of presidents and celebritiesFlights to the nearest airport — Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine, about a two-hour drive — average $349, and rental cars cost about $95.
Albany, New York, ranked fourth, with popular fall activities like hiking in Washington Park or Thacher State Park and Hudson River cruises. Stowe, Vermont, came in sixth and has been called the color capital of New England this time of year. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia took seventh place for its over 500 miles of hiking trails And 75 viewpoints on its Skyline Drive.
Two scenic drives also made the list. In fifth place is Idaho’s Payette River Scenic Byway, where drives and bike rides can be accompanied by soaks in natural hot springs. Oregon’s 34-mile McKenzie River Scenic Byway takes eighth place with views of the Willamette Valley, Cascade Mountain and the McKenzie River.
