Best Places to Visit in the Midwest during Autumn
September through November is the best time to enjoy the finest fall getaways in the Midwest. From the region’s major cities to charming small towns and majestic State Parks, this article discusses the best places to visit in the Midwest of the USA.
Depending on where you visit in the Midwest, you can experience the best fall colors from late September to late October. The Northern Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Dakota, witnesses vibrant fall colors first, from late September through mid-October.
The central part of the Midwest, including Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa, experiences peak foliage from early October to the end of the month. Lastly, the Southern Midwest, such as Missouri and Kansas, witnesses peak colors from mid- to late October. Click here for a fall foliage tracker.
Autumn is one of my favorite seasons. I love traveling during the fall months to experience everything from colorful scenic drives to outdoor activities and fall festivals. Discover the perfect fall getaways in the Midwest for the best autumn experiences.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy
Best Fall Getaways in the Midwest: Top Fall Foliage Road Trips
Branson, Missouri:
Undoubtedly, Branson is one of the best fall getaways in the Midwest. It offers a range of fall festivities and live entertainment options. Situated in the Missouri Ozarks, Branson is famous for being the top 10 best places to visit in the fall.
The top things to do in Branson, MO in the fall is to stroll through the charming downtown area. Stop in the art galleries; enjoy live music at the Clay Cooper Theatre; go shopping at The Grand Village; attend the Dolly Parton Stampede; have a fun evening at The Social Birdy and hike in the Ozark Mountains while taking in the natural beauty.
The ultimate fall activities that you cannot miss in Branson are experiencing the best adventures at Shepherd of the Hills and creating memories at Silver Dollar City.
Shepherd’s Pumpkinfest allows you and your loved ones to enjoy hayrides, pumpkin picking and decorating. You can also make your own scarecrow! Additionally, there are numerous photo opportunities, including the famous pumpkin house.
In addition to enjoying all of the rides at Silver Dollar City, you must experience the theme park’s Harvest Festival! Savor tasty autumn treats, admire the magical fall decorations, experience spooky thrills and see thousands of locally-carved pumpkins that illuminate at night.
The leading place to stay in Branson during the fall is the Ozarker Lodge. The top spots for dining are Steamy Joe Café for breakfast, Sugar Leaf Bakery Café for lunch and Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop for dinner.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
Hocking Hills, Ohio:
If you love outdoor adventures, such as hiking in the fall and admiring the fantastic colors among the trees, then you should visit Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. It’s an area of around 1,700 football fields with miles of trails.
It’s no secret that one of the best things to do in Hocking Hills is to go hiking, especially at the end of October. This is when the park’s oak, hickory and maple forests reach their peak fall color, making it an “Instagram-worthy” visit
The top hiking trails in Hocking Hills State Park are Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Cedar Falls. They showcase the best of what the park has to offer!
After your hike, one of the best places to go for a meal is Kindred Spirits Restaurant. The food is fantastic! You must savor the fall comfort bowl, a mix of roasted root vegetables produced in the Hocking Hills. The restaurant is also part of the lovely boutique cottage, The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls.
The Hocking Hills are not just famous for their colorful hiking trails, but also for their farmers’ markets, especially during the Halloween season!
Submitted by Laura and Alexander of Lost Between Oceans.
Traverse City, Michigan
There’s nothing like fall in northern Michigan! Peak color usually arrives around mid-October. This is when the area’s rolling hills and vineyards burst into shades of gold, crimson and amber.
The best way to soak it all in is on a scenic drive, especially along Old Mission Peninsula. This is where you’ll find panoramic views of the bay, roadside farm stands piled high with pumpkins and apples and wineries offering new seasonal releases during grape harvest.
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a casual meal along the way, head to Jolly Pumpkin. Beloved by locals, Jolly Pumpkin is famous for its wood-fired pizzas, truffle fries and craft beer.
Just west of town, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive winds through the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, delivering one of northern Michigan’s most spectacular fall color tours. This 7.4-mile loop takes you through hardwood forests and dramatic dune landscapes, featuring 12 designated overlooks that offer breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan. Though stunning any time of year, it’s especially magical in the peak of color season.
If you’re visiting with family, don’t miss Jacob’s Farm, home to an elaborate 10-acre corn maze, hayrides and wood-fired pizza by the bonfire. Another local favorite is Moomers Ice Cream, where you can enjoy a scoop of pumpkin chip and hop on their “I Spy” wagon ride around the dairy farm.
Downtown Traverse City also shines when it comes to Halloween fun! In October, the city comes alive with an array of amazing events! Enjoy the Zombie 5K Run, the Haunts & Harvest Window Walk and the family-friendly Downtown Halloween Walk, where kids can trick-or-treat among participating businesses.
The Hotel Indigo makes for a great home base fall tour. Conveniently located in downtown Traverse City, it’s an easy walking distance to numerous shops, bars and restaurants. Additionally, the Hotel Indigo boasts one of the only rooftop bars in Traverse City, offering stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay.
With colorful drives, wineries, farm markets and festive community spirit, fall in Traverse City makes for one of the leading getaways in the Midwest.
Submitted by Linda of On To New Adventures.
Chicago, Illinois:
As the chill hits the air, there’s no doubt that there is no better time of year to visit the Windy City than during autumn. It makes for an unforgettable fall getaway in the Midwest!
Chicago is the perfect destination for travelers seeking to experience the beautiful fall foliage in an urban setting. Millennium Park is a great place to start! Early in the fall, the park is filled with stunning colors, providing an excellent natural framing for the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture in the center of the park! Later in the season, when the trees have fallen, the tree branches give the park a lovely wintery vibe without the freezing temperatures.
One of the city’s best fall attractions is the iconic Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up festival. It takes over Chicago during the autumn months! There’s a corn maze, many food and drink stalls, axe throwing and plenty of family-friendly spooky fun! In fact, this festival is worth fun fall trips to this incredible city.
Chicago is also renowned for being one of the top food cities in the United States. While you should try a deep-dish pizza and a Chicago-style hot dog on your visit, a fantastic place to dine is at Il Porcellino. This homely eatery serves up mouthwatering dishes!
The perfect place to stay in the Windy City, with jaw-dropping views of the skyline and shores of Lake Michigan, is The Wade Hotel. It’s also within walking distance to the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the Navy Pier.
Submitted by Emma of Emma Jane Explores.
Cleveland Metro Parks, Ohio:
If you’re looking for one of the ultimate fall getaways in the Midwest, look no further than Cleveland’s Metro Parks! Called the Emerald Necklace, this area comprises over 25,000 acres of 18 parks. There are more than 325 miles of hiking trails and breathtaking terrain.
The fall season is a great time to be outdoors exploring in the Metro Parks, passing through vista points, waterfalls, cliff areas and undulating landscape. Plus, fall color is in full bloom! You can admire the full range of foliage, including yellow, orange and red, with maples, dogwoods, sweetgums, gingkos and many other regional trees endemic to the area.
Outside of the stunning landscape, you can participate in fun autumn events. You must attend the Sturgeon Fest, Oktoberfest at the Chalet, Fallfest and the Steelhead Festival.
There is no better place to stay in the Cleveland area than at comfortable and boutique hotels like the Glidden House and the Orbit Hotel. Both of these properties will provide you and your loved ones with a luxurious stay!
Submitted by Noel of Travel Photo Discovery.
Lutsen, Minnesota:
Often held on par with New England fall foliage, Lutsen, Minnesota is one Midwest leaf peeping destination you don’t want to miss. Known for its vibrant crimson leaves, thanks to a large stand of maple trees nestled in the Sawtooth Mountain range, fall colors in Lutsen also come with the additional bonus of a backdrop featuring the Great Lakes.
Located on Lake Superior’s North Shore, Lutsen is a 4.5-hour drive from Minnesota’s Twin Cities. This idyllic small town is best known for Lutsen Mountains, the largest ski resort in the Midwest. You’ll want to head straight there to take the Summit Express gondola up Moose Mountain for spectacular 360° views.
Being one of the best weekend trips in the Midwest during autumn, popular fall activities in the Lutsen area include hiking sections of the Superior Hiking Trail. You must also take a scenic drive to the self-serve sugar shack at Wild Country Maple Syrup or enjoy wine tastings at North Shore Winery. When it’s time to eat, head to Lockport Marketplace & Deli or Cascade Restaurant.
Fall colors usually peak in Lutsen around the last weekend of September and the first weekend of October. The weather can range widely this time of year, with temperatures anywhere from right above freezing to the low 80s. It’s best to wear layers and always have a rain jacket nearby.
Lutsen is a popular fall foliage destination with Minnesotans. The ultimate way to avoid crowds and long gondola lines is to visit midweek and take on the hiking trails earlier in the day. You can get the jump on other leaf peepers by staying close by at Lutsen Sea Villas or Caribou Highlands Lodge.
Submitted by Ada of Beyond The Yellow Brick Road.
Deadwood, South Dakota:
A South Dakota road trip makes for one of the best Midwest vacations during the fall. The Western town of Deadwood is the top place to base yourself. It’s near all of the best State and National Parks in South Dakota. Please note that foliage in the Black Hills typically peaks from mid-September to early October.
Deadwood has a charming and vibrant downtown. This small Western city is famous for its gold rush history. The best accommodation is the Four Points by Sheraton. It’s located along Main Street in Deadwood, within walking distance to the best restaurants, bars, cafés, casinos and other live entertainment venues.
The top places to dine in Deadwood, SD are Legends Steakhouse and Saloon No. 10. Additionally, fun fall activities to enjoy in Deadwood include attending the Deadwood Oktoberfest and the Deadweird Halloween Parade in October.
During spooky season, take a ghost tour of some of Deadwood’s most haunted landmarks like the Bullock Hotel and Historic Adams House. Don’t forget to visit the Mount Moriah Cemetery. It is the resting place of Wild West figures like Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, along with Broken Boot Gold Mine.
A fall road trip to South Dakota should also include exploring Badlands National Park and Custer State Park. Also, admire the incredible Crazy Horse Memorial and take in the fall colors around Mount Rushmore National Memorial. A visit to South Dakota is incomplete without shopping at the iconic Wall Drug.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
Starved Rock State Park, Illinois:
Another one of the top fall getaways in the Midwest is Starved Rock State Park in Illinois. It’s located less than two hours west of Chicago. Overall, there are some of the best hiking trails in Starved Rock State Park!
When leaf peeping season at Starved Rock State Park rolls around, you know you’re in for a treat! The dramatic canyons, ones you’d never expect to find in Illinois, begin to glow with fiery reds, oranges and yellows that make every overlook feel magical.
Starved Rock State Park makes for the best day trip, weekend getaway or Midwest road trip from the Windy City. Peak foliage typically occurs in mid-October, offering sunny, crisp hiking days. Just be prepared to share the trail, as October, especially on weekends, can get busy with heavy crowds.
After a day of hiking, treat yourself to the hearty comfort food at Starved Rock Lodge. The historic and cozy dining room is a great spot for a fall meal. For an overnight stay, you can either head straight upstairs to a room at the lodge or drive a few minutes to the upscale, luxury glamping retreat at Camp Aramoni.
Submitted by Addie of Midwest by the Mile.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio is one of the few National Parks in the Midwest and makes for one of the best fall weekend trips. Not only are the fall colors a draw for visiting, but there are some unique ways to soak in the fall season.
Waterfalls like Brandywine Falls are beautifully framed with orange and yellow foliage. Plus, you can stay at The Inn at Brandywine Falls. It’s a quaint bed and breakfast, perfect for a fall retreat.
There are many incredible fall activities in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. In fact, there are many fall hikes in this park! Enjoy the Ledges Trail, Oak Hill Trail or any of the many other incredible hiking opportunities in Cuyahoga Valley.
If you’re not one to hike, there are still plenty of options for you. A ride on the popular Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad gives great views as you pass by. Szalay’s Farm and Market, in the center of the park, is also a great family destination for food and fun!
The peak of fall colors in the Cuyahoga Valley is usually around the third week of October. However, a visit anytime during the month will show the park gearing up for autumn’s best. Pack a few layers because you can experience warm days to cool and breezy temperatures.
Submitted by Rebecca of The Researched Traveler.
Door County, Wisconsin:
Wisconsin also offers some of the best fall getaways in the Midwest, especially in Door County. Located on a peninsula along Lake Michigan, Door County is one of the leading places for nature lovers and leaf peepers. The best time to see vibrant foliage is anytime between late September and mid-October.
The best place to stay in Door County during the fall months is Gordon Lodge. Situated on North Bay, this luxurious lakeside property offers a private beach, serene hiking trails and memorable outdoor activities. Located in Bailey’s Harbor, WI, Gordon Lodge features a waterfront restaurant called Top Deck Restaurant, which serves delicious dishes.
When visiting Door County in autumn, it’s a must to visit one of the many apple orchards. Krowas Orchard is the closest to Gordon Lodge and offers pick-your-own opportunities, as well as baked fall treats to enjoy.
Door County also hosts numerous fun fall festivals. Jam out to live music, meander the pumpkin patches, savor local delicacies and shop for artisanal goods. The top festivals to check out in Door County are Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch, Sister Bay Fall Fest, Fish Creek Jack O’Lantern Days, Sturgeon Bay Thrills and Chills and Baileys Harbor Autumnfest.
The perfect way to admire the vibrant colors of Door County is to drive the scenic Coastal Byway. It’s a 66-mile fall drive between Sturgeon Bay at the southern part of the peninsula, to Northport and Gills Rock at the northernmost point of Door County. If you prefer to see the foliage on a hike, take on the Eagle Trail in Peninsula State Park.
A fun thing to do in Door County during Spooky Season is to learn about the area’s eerie past. Taking the Trolley of the Doomed Door County Ghost Tour will help dive into the darker side of the peninsula. Listen to spooky stories about the sunken ships, haunted lighthouses and even folklore.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
What is your favorite fall getaway in the Midwest?
If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll also like these blog posts:
Best Fall Vacations in the South
Magical December Getaways in the USA
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the perfect fall getaways in the Midwest of the USA. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.
Below are the top travel companies I use for convenience and cost:
Shop the Fall Look:
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Best Places to Visit in the Midwest during Autumn
September through November is the best time to enjoy the finest fall getaways in the Midwest. From the region’s major cities to charming small towns and majestic State Parks, this article discusses the best places to visit in the Midwest of the USA.
Depending on where you visit in the Midwest, you can experience the best fall colors from late September to late October. The Northern Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Dakota, witnesses vibrant fall colors first, from late September through mid-October.
The central part of the Midwest, including Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa, experiences peak foliage from early October to the end of the month. Lastly, the Southern Midwest, such as Missouri and Kansas, witnesses peak colors from mid- to late October. Click here for a fall foliage tracker.
Autumn is one of my favorite seasons. I love traveling during the fall months to experience everything from colorful scenic drives to outdoor activities and fall festivals. Discover the perfect fall getaways in the Midwest for the best autumn experiences.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy
Best Fall Getaways in the Midwest: Top Fall Foliage Road Trips
Branson, Missouri:
Undoubtedly, Branson is one of the best fall getaways in the Midwest. It offers a range of fall festivities and live entertainment options. Situated in the Missouri Ozarks, Branson is famous for being the top 10 best places to visit in the fall.
The top things to do in Branson, MO in the fall is to stroll through the charming downtown area. Stop in the art galleries; enjoy live music at the Clay Cooper Theatre; go shopping at The Grand Village; attend the Dolly Parton Stampede; have a fun evening at The Social Birdy and hike in the Ozark Mountains while taking in the natural beauty.
The ultimate fall activities that you cannot miss in Branson are experiencing the best adventures at Shepherd of the Hills and creating memories at Silver Dollar City.
Shepherd’s Pumpkinfest allows you and your loved ones to enjoy hayrides, pumpkin picking and decorating. You can also make your own scarecrow! Additionally, there are numerous photo opportunities, including the famous pumpkin house.
In addition to enjoying all of the rides at Silver Dollar City, you must experience the theme park’s Harvest Festival! Savor tasty autumn treats, admire the magical fall decorations, experience spooky thrills and see thousands of locally-carved pumpkins that illuminate at night.
The leading place to stay in Branson during the fall is the Ozarker Lodge. The top spots for dining are Steamy Joe Café for breakfast, Sugar Leaf Bakery Café for lunch and Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop for dinner.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
Hocking Hills, Ohio:
If you love outdoor adventures, such as hiking in the fall and admiring the fantastic colors among the trees, then you should visit Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. It’s an area of around 1,700 football fields with miles of trails.
It’s no secret that one of the best things to do in Hocking Hills is to go hiking, especially at the end of October. This is when the park’s oak, hickory and maple forests reach their peak fall color, making it an “Instagram-worthy” visit
The top hiking trails in Hocking Hills State Park are Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Cedar Falls. They showcase the best of what the park has to offer!
After your hike, one of the best places to go for a meal is Kindred Spirits Restaurant. The food is fantastic! You must savor the fall comfort bowl, a mix of roasted root vegetables produced in the Hocking Hills. The restaurant is also part of the lovely boutique cottage, The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls.
The Hocking Hills are not just famous for their colorful hiking trails, but also for their farmers’ markets, especially during the Halloween season!
Submitted by Laura and Alexander of Lost Between Oceans.
Traverse City, Michigan
There’s nothing like fall in northern Michigan! Peak color usually arrives around mid-October. This is when the area’s rolling hills and vineyards burst into shades of gold, crimson and amber.
The best way to soak it all in is on a scenic drive, especially along Old Mission Peninsula. This is where you’ll find panoramic views of the bay, roadside farm stands piled high with pumpkins and apples and wineries offering new seasonal releases during grape harvest.
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a casual meal along the way, head to Jolly Pumpkin. Beloved by locals, Jolly Pumpkin is famous for its wood-fired pizzas, truffle fries and craft beer.
Just west of town, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive winds through the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, delivering one of northern Michigan’s most spectacular fall color tours. This 7.4-mile loop takes you through hardwood forests and dramatic dune landscapes, featuring 12 designated overlooks that offer breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan. Though stunning any time of year, it’s especially magical in the peak of color season.
If you’re visiting with family, don’t miss Jacob’s Farm, home to an elaborate 10-acre corn maze, hayrides and wood-fired pizza by the bonfire. Another local favorite is Moomers Ice Cream, where you can enjoy a scoop of pumpkin chip and hop on their “I Spy” wagon ride around the dairy farm.
Downtown Traverse City also shines when it comes to Halloween fun! In October, the city comes alive with an array of amazing events! Enjoy the Zombie 5K Run, the Haunts & Harvest Window Walk and the family-friendly Downtown Halloween Walk, where kids can trick-or-treat among participating businesses.
The Hotel Indigo makes for a great home base fall tour. Conveniently located in downtown Traverse City, it’s an easy walking distance to numerous shops, bars and restaurants. Additionally, the Hotel Indigo boasts one of the only rooftop bars in Traverse City, offering stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay.
With colorful drives, wineries, farm markets and festive community spirit, fall in Traverse City makes for one of the leading getaways in the Midwest.
Submitted by Linda of On To New Adventures.
Chicago, Illinois:
As the chill hits the air, there’s no doubt that there is no better time of year to visit the Windy City than during autumn. It makes for an unforgettable fall getaway in the Midwest!
Chicago is the perfect destination for travelers seeking to experience the beautiful fall foliage in an urban setting. Millennium Park is a great place to start! Early in the fall, the park is filled with stunning colors, providing an excellent natural framing for the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture in the center of the park! Later in the season, when the trees have fallen, the tree branches give the park a lovely wintery vibe without the freezing temperatures.
One of the city’s best fall attractions is the iconic Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up festival. It takes over Chicago during the autumn months! There’s a corn maze, many food and drink stalls, axe throwing and plenty of family-friendly spooky fun! In fact, this festival is worth fun fall trips to this incredible city.
Chicago is also renowned for being one of the top food cities in the United States. While you should try a deep-dish pizza and a Chicago-style hot dog on your visit, a fantastic place to dine is at Il Porcellino. This homely eatery serves up mouthwatering dishes!
The perfect place to stay in the Windy City, with jaw-dropping views of the skyline and shores of Lake Michigan, is The Wade Hotel. It’s also within walking distance to the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the Navy Pier.
Submitted by Emma of Emma Jane Explores.
Cleveland Metro Parks, Ohio:
If you’re looking for one of the ultimate fall getaways in the Midwest, look no further than Cleveland’s Metro Parks! Called the Emerald Necklace, this area comprises over 25,000 acres of 18 parks. There are more than 325 miles of hiking trails and breathtaking terrain.
The fall season is a great time to be outdoors exploring in the Metro Parks, passing through vista points, waterfalls, cliff areas and undulating landscape. Plus, fall color is in full bloom! You can admire the full range of foliage, including yellow, orange and red, with maples, dogwoods, sweetgums, gingkos and many other regional trees endemic to the area.
Outside of the stunning landscape, you can participate in fun autumn events. You must attend the Sturgeon Fest, Oktoberfest at the Chalet, Fallfest and the Steelhead Festival.
There is no better place to stay in the Cleveland area than at comfortable and boutique hotels like the Glidden House and the Orbit Hotel. Both of these properties will provide you and your loved ones with a luxurious stay!
Submitted by Noel of Travel Photo Discovery.
Lutsen, Minnesota:
Often held on par with New England fall foliage, Lutsen, Minnesota is one Midwest leaf peeping destination you don’t want to miss. Known for its vibrant crimson leaves, thanks to a large stand of maple trees nestled in the Sawtooth Mountain range, fall colors in Lutsen also come with the additional bonus of a backdrop featuring the Great Lakes.
Located on Lake Superior’s North Shore, Lutsen is a 4.5-hour drive from Minnesota’s Twin Cities. This idyllic small town is best known for Lutsen Mountains, the largest ski resort in the Midwest. You’ll want to head straight there to take the Summit Express gondola up Moose Mountain for spectacular 360° views.
Being one of the best weekend trips in the Midwest during autumn, popular fall activities in the Lutsen area include hiking sections of the Superior Hiking Trail. You must also take a scenic drive to the self-serve sugar shack at Wild Country Maple Syrup or enjoy wine tastings at North Shore Winery. When it’s time to eat, head to Lockport Marketplace & Deli or Cascade Restaurant.
Fall colors usually peak in Lutsen around the last weekend of September and the first weekend of October. The weather can range widely this time of year, with temperatures anywhere from right above freezing to the low 80s. It’s best to wear layers and always have a rain jacket nearby.
Lutsen is a popular fall foliage destination with Minnesotans. The ultimate way to avoid crowds and long gondola lines is to visit midweek and take on the hiking trails earlier in the day. You can get the jump on other leaf peepers by staying close by at Lutsen Sea Villas or Caribou Highlands Lodge.
Submitted by Ada of Beyond The Yellow Brick Road.
Deadwood, South Dakota:
A South Dakota road trip makes for one of the best Midwest vacations during the fall. The Western town of Deadwood is the top place to base yourself. It’s near all of the best State and National Parks in South Dakota. Please note that foliage in the Black Hills typically peaks from mid-September to early October.
Deadwood has a charming and vibrant downtown. This small Western city is famous for its gold rush history. The best accommodation is the Four Points by Sheraton. It’s located along Main Street in Deadwood, within walking distance to the best restaurants, bars, cafés, casinos and other live entertainment venues.
The top places to dine in Deadwood, SD are Legends Steakhouse and Saloon No. 10. Additionally, fun fall activities to enjoy in Deadwood include attending the Deadwood Oktoberfest and the Deadweird Halloween Parade in October.
During spooky season, take a ghost tour of some of Deadwood’s most haunted landmarks like the Bullock Hotel and Historic Adams House. Don’t forget to visit the Mount Moriah Cemetery. It is the resting place of Wild West figures like Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, along with Broken Boot Gold Mine.
A fall road trip to South Dakota should also include exploring Badlands National Park and Custer State Park. Also, admire the incredible Crazy Horse Memorial and take in the fall colors around Mount Rushmore National Memorial. A visit to South Dakota is incomplete without shopping at the iconic Wall Drug.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
Starved Rock State Park, Illinois:
Another one of the top fall getaways in the Midwest is Starved Rock State Park in Illinois. It’s located less than two hours west of Chicago. Overall, there are some of the best hiking trails in Starved Rock State Park!
When leaf peeping season at Starved Rock State Park rolls around, you know you’re in for a treat! The dramatic canyons, ones you’d never expect to find in Illinois, begin to glow with fiery reds, oranges and yellows that make every overlook feel magical.
Starved Rock State Park makes for the best day trip, weekend getaway or Midwest road trip from the Windy City. Peak foliage typically occurs in mid-October, offering sunny, crisp hiking days. Just be prepared to share the trail, as October, especially on weekends, can get busy with heavy crowds.
After a day of hiking, treat yourself to the hearty comfort food at Starved Rock Lodge. The historic and cozy dining room is a great spot for a fall meal. For an overnight stay, you can either head straight upstairs to a room at the lodge or drive a few minutes to the upscale, luxury glamping retreat at Camp Aramoni.
Submitted by Addie of Midwest by the Mile.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio is one of the few National Parks in the Midwest and makes for one of the best fall weekend trips. Not only are the fall colors a draw for visiting, but there are some unique ways to soak in the fall season.
Waterfalls like Brandywine Falls are beautifully framed with orange and yellow foliage. Plus, you can stay at The Inn at Brandywine Falls. It’s a quaint bed and breakfast, perfect for a fall retreat.
There are many incredible fall activities in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. In fact, there are many fall hikes in this park! Enjoy the Ledges Trail, Oak Hill Trail or any of the many other incredible hiking opportunities in Cuyahoga Valley.
If you’re not one to hike, there are still plenty of options for you. A ride on the popular Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad gives great views as you pass by. Szalay’s Farm and Market, in the center of the park, is also a great family destination for food and fun!
The peak of fall colors in the Cuyahoga Valley is usually around the third week of October. However, a visit anytime during the month will show the park gearing up for autumn’s best. Pack a few layers because you can experience warm days to cool and breezy temperatures.
Submitted by Rebecca of The Researched Traveler.
Door County, Wisconsin:
Wisconsin also offers some of the best fall getaways in the Midwest, especially in Door County. Located on a peninsula along Lake Michigan, Door County is one of the leading places for nature lovers and leaf peepers. The best time to see vibrant foliage is anytime between late September and mid-October.
The best place to stay in Door County during the fall months is Gordon Lodge. Situated on North Bay, this luxurious lakeside property offers a private beach, serene hiking trails and memorable outdoor activities. Located in Bailey’s Harbor, WI, Gordon Lodge features a waterfront restaurant called Top Deck Restaurant, which serves delicious dishes.
When visiting Door County in autumn, it’s a must to visit one of the many apple orchards. Krowas Orchard is the closest to Gordon Lodge and offers pick-your-own opportunities, as well as baked fall treats to enjoy.
Door County also hosts numerous fun fall festivals. Jam out to live music, meander the pumpkin patches, savor local delicacies and shop for artisanal goods. The top festivals to check out in Door County are Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch, Sister Bay Fall Fest, Fish Creek Jack O’Lantern Days, Sturgeon Bay Thrills and Chills and Baileys Harbor Autumnfest.
The perfect way to admire the vibrant colors of Door County is to drive the scenic Coastal Byway. It’s a 66-mile fall drive between Sturgeon Bay at the southern part of the peninsula, to Northport and Gills Rock at the northernmost point of Door County. If you prefer to see the foliage on a hike, take on the Eagle Trail in Peninsula State Park.
A fun thing to do in Door County during Spooky Season is to learn about the area’s eerie past. Taking the Trolley of the Doomed Door County Ghost Tour will help dive into the darker side of the peninsula. Listen to spooky stories about the sunken ships, haunted lighthouses and even folklore.
Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.
What is your favorite fall getaway in the Midwest?
If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll also like these blog posts:
Best Fall Vacations in the South
Magical December Getaways in the USA
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the perfect fall getaways in the Midwest of the USA. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.
Below are the top travel companies I use for convenience and cost:
Shop the Fall Look:
3 Comments
This was a great guide on beautiful places to visit in the fall. It is amazing how many states have the stunning fall foliage and so many great activities to do. I love hiking, so these blogs informed me of some awesome hiking trails I would love to experience. Great blogs on beautiful fall destinations. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experiences. Love, mom 👩 ❤️ xoxo
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is one of our favorites! Those canyons glowing in autumn reds felt like a whole other world within a few hours of Chicago. I love how this guide highlights a mix of big city + nature escapes for the fall. Thanks for sharing all these gems!
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This was a great guide on beautiful places to visit in the fall. It is amazing how many states have the stunning fall foliage and so many great activities to do. I love hiking, so these blogs informed me of some awesome hiking trails I would love to experience. Great blogs on beautiful fall destinations. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experiences. Love, mom 👩 ❤️ xoxo
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is one of our favorites! Those canyons glowing in autumn reds felt like a whole other world within a few hours of Chicago. I love how this guide highlights a mix of big city + nature escapes for the fall. Thanks for sharing all these gems!
It looks absolutely beautiful! I need to go at some point.