Fun Cities to Visit in the Fall 

As the weather cools down and the leaves start to change, fall is a great time to hit the road and explore new cities. From fall festivals to stunning foliage, these U.S. cities offer something special during the autumn months.  

Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or savoring seasonal flavors, these 10 destinations are sure to make your fall getaway unforgettable. 

Louisville is a charming city with fall foliage and fun autumn activities. One of the highlights of the season is the St. James Court Art Show, one of the largest outdoor art shows in the country, which takes place every October. After strolling through local art booths, consider taking a scenic drive along the Ohio River or exploring the beautiful walking trails in Cherokee Park, where the fall colors reach their peak. 

• Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular: Held annually in Iroquois Park, this event showcases thousands of intricately carved pumpkins illuminated along a 1/3-mile trail. With changing themes every year and pumpkins depicting everything from local history to pop culture, it’s a Louisville fall favorite!   

• Louisville Mega Cavern: For a unique experience, head underground to the Louisville Mega Cavern, where zipline tours and a spooky Halloween light display turn this man-made cave into a thrilling fall adventure.  

Nashville, Tennessee   

Music City is not just about country tunes; Nashville comes alive in the fall with cooler temperatures, scenic views, and lively festivals. Visitors can enjoy everything from pumpkin patches to outdoor concerts under the autumn sky. 

• Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: Each fall, Cheekwood transforms into a fall wonderland with its annual Harvest Festival, featuring elaborate scarecrow displays, pumpkin villages, and hayrides.   

• Nashville Oktoberfest: Held in the historic Germantown neighborhood, this free, four-day event offers German music, bratwurst, pretzels and carnival rides. The highlight is the lively Dachshund Derby—a must for dog lovers! 

Pair your fall adventure with southern comfort food and live music for an authentic Nashville experience. 

Denver, Colorado   

Denver in the fall is pure magic. With its crisp air and gorgeous scenery, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor lovers.  

• Denver Botanic Gardens: Fall is prime time for seasonal events like “Glow at the Gardens,” featuring rows of jack-o’-lanterns lighting up the garden paths. Another highlight is the Corn Maze, a 7-acre attraction complete with a pumpkin patch and hayrides.   

• Scenic Drives: Denver is the perfect launching point for drives through the Rocky Mountains or nearby towns like Aspen, where the golden aspens and snow-capped mountains create a picture-perfect backdrop. 

Charleston, South Carolina   

Charleston’s historic charm is amplified in the fall when cooler weather and seasonal events make it an even more appealing destination. 

• Charleston Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens: Hosted by the city’s Preservation Society, these exclusive tours offer a rare peek inside some of Charleston’s most beautiful private homes and gardens, often adorned with seasonal décor.   

• Follypalooza: Held every October in Folly Beach, this street festival offers live music, art vendors, and delicious food—a perfect way to experience this laid-back beach town with an autumn twist. 

Pair the historic beauty of Charleston with its many food festivals, like the Taste of Charleston, for a perfect fall getaway. 

Orlando, Florida   

Orlando may be famous for its theme parks but fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds—making it the ideal time to visit. 

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Offers festive family fun with parades, trick-or-treating, and spooky character meet-and-greets.   

• Halloween Horror Nights: A more intense experience for thrill-seekers, with haunted houses and terrifying scare zones. 

Beyond the parks, take a stroll through Orlando’s downtown farmers’ markets or explore nearby nature reserves for a peaceful autumn day. 

Nestled between mountain ranges, Salt Lake City is the perfect fall escape. The autumn colors light up the surrounding landscape, and the city’s proximity to nature means you can take in the scenery from hiking trails or scenic drives. 

• Big Cottonwood Canyon: Just a short drive from the city, this canyon offers breathtaking views of the autumn foliage, with hiking trails like Donut Falls for the adventurous.   

• Utah State Fair: For a taste of local culture, visit the fair for seasonal treats, live performances, and carnival fun. 

Phoenix, Arizona   

While Phoenix may not offer the classic fall foliage, it more than makes up for it with its stunning desert landscapes and perfect autumn weather. As temperatures cool down, Phoenix becomes an ideal spot for outdoor adventures. The city also comes alive with a variety of fun fall events.  

• Camelback Mountain: A popular spot for hiking, the cooler fall temperatures make it the perfect time to conquer this challenging trail.   

• Desert Botanical Garden: The garden offers a beautiful display of Sonoran Desert plants, providing a unique and colorful autumn experience. 

• Schnepf Farms: Located just outside Phoenix, Schnepf Farms is the perfect place to embrace fall fun. This family-owned farm offers a classic autumn experience in the heart of the desert with an annual Pumpkin and Chili Party, carnival rides and delicious seasonal treats. 

San Antonio, Texas   

San Antonio blends history, culture, and seasonal events for an unforgettable fall experience. As the temperatures cool, the city’s outdoor markets, parks, and historic neighborhoods become even more inviting, offering the perfect backdrop for a fall adventure.  

• The River Walk: Lined with fall decorations, the River Walk is perfect for a leisurely stroll in the cooler weather.   

• Dia de los Muertos Festival: This vibrant celebration honors Mexican heritage with colorful altars, traditional music, and delicious food. 

Savannah, Georgia   

Savannah’s historic charm is only heightened by the fall season when the city’s cobblestone streets and Spanish moss-draped trees are framed by golden hues. 

• Forsyth Park: Perfect for an afternoon stroll under the changing leaves, Forsyth Park is the heart of Savannah’s beauty.   

• Ghost Tours: Fall is a great time to experience Savannah’s spooky side, with guided ghost tours that take you through the city’s most haunted locations. 

Fall brings a unique beauty to every corner of the U.S. Whether you’re chasing colorful leaves, indulging in local seasonal treats, or enjoying lively festivals, these cities are sure to offer an unforgettable autumn adventure. Safe and happy travels!