Ten Best Places to View Fall Foliage

The Top Ten List for Fall Foliage

2006-09-06T15:58:00.003-04:00

Fall foliage may be delayed or dull this year thanks to summer like temperatures and a lack of rain in the East and Midwest. When do the leaves change colors? Last week's high temperatures in New England will probably be a factor in the fall foliage this season (2008). In northern Maine they normally get their peak around this time - but it's a tad late. The high pressure over the eastern seaboard just doesn't make it feel like October. For Ohio foliage and Indiana foliage, the dryness could make the fall foliage season shorter. But it's still going to be great. Please send in your reports and we'll post them here.

The Foxfield Inn - Charlottesville, Virginia

Cliff Park Inn - Milford, Pennsylvania

Hermann Hill Vineyard and Inn - Hermann, Missouri

Red Rooster Inn - Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Lodge on Apple Pie Ridge - Alto, Georgia

Four Columns Inn - Newfane, Vermont

Hillside Inn - Ephraim, Wisconsin

Berry Springs Lodge - Sevierville, Tennessee

Good Medicine Lodge - Whitefish, Montana

The Victorian by the Sea - Camden, Maine

Let's kick off the tour with at the only B&B in Delaware's Water Gap National Recreational Area. Beauty beyond compare, awaits! Next >>

Best Fall Colors at Hermann Hill Vineyard, Hermann, MO

2006-09-05T14:11:00.001-04:00

Most people think of leaves changing colors, fall pumpkins, all happening in the northeast. But there's a gem of a place to view God's beauty if you're near the state of Missouri. Here, you not only get a taste of early Americana, but people see the leaves in the fall and start thinking this may not be such a bad place to retire. In fact, sales for those mountainside cabins are on the rise. And why not? You've arrive at a great place to see the leaves at their best with fall foliage in Hermann. The vineyard will take you back and the colors will make you stay.

Dawn over the majestic Missouri River is so prized here that sunrise times are provided at check-in. New cottages at this upscale lodge are perched on a bluff above the river near enough to hear the water. "Early German pioneers settled here in the early 1800s, back in the days when it was a leading grape-growing area, because it reminded them of the Rhineland and their own great river," Soule says. She suggests taking the Hermann Wine Path to visit seven nearby wineries. Bikers and hikers favor the Katy Trail, a converted rail pathway named for the Kansas and Topeka Railroad. 573-486-4455; hermannhill.com.

Overlooking historic Hermann, Missouri just an hour from St. Louis, Hermann Hill Vineyard & Inn is for guests who like to travel first class. We are also excited to introduce our newest upscale lodging property Hermann Hill Village, featuring upscale bluff top cottages overlooking the Missouri River. This charming Missouri bed and breakfast is an excellent choice for Missouri lodging and availability for both properties is just a click away.

Enjoy the Ultimate Country Inn Experience

This renowned Missouri bed and breakfast has eight exquisitely appointed staterooms.spectacular views from your own balcony or patio luxurious private baths with Jacuzzi-style tubs for two the privacy and freedom to set your own pace for a fantastic Missouri vacation. Sited on a bluff and surrounded by vineyard, the backdrop for your stay is an ever-changing panorama of Hermann and the Missouri River Valley.

Experience more of the fall colors and graceful inns and cottages. Begin at our index, and work your way through. Start here: >>

Red Rooster Inn, Glenwood Springs, CO - Fall Foliage

2006-09-03T20:57:00.001-04:00

I've always thought Colorado was just out of this world as far as autumn leaves changing to those gorgeous colors that take so well with almost any camera. My choice used to be Steamboat Springs until someone mentioned we should check out Glenwood Springs. Both places are amazing, yet Glenwood Springs wins for a sweet collection of everything you dream of when considering a road trip to see the autumn leaves.

At every turn you see two things; snow-capped mountains, and leaves that are changing to the most dramatic colors you've ever seen. Welcome to Glenwood Sprins.

A photo of a French country house inspired the design for this elegant mountaintop inn. Kids are surely welcome. It's like visiting a close friend's house. The changing gold and ruby jewel tones of poplars, aspens and oaks among the evergreens are as rich and varied as a kaleidoscope.

Above the tree line, it will be snowing on Mount Sopris. Below, wide-open pastures stretch for miles. Stroll down for a closer look at the grazing cows. 970-928-8293; red-rooster-inn.com.

The Red Rooster Inn offers elegantly rustic guest house accommodations between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, Colorado, and specializes in spa packages and gourmet cooking classes. We are a B&B for the young and young at heart. They focus on comfort and quality in the European tradition, including homemade breakfasts using fresh and all-natural ingredients (real butter, eggs from cage-free hens, real cream, organic free-trade coffee), homemade natural soaps, all-cotton linens on real feather beds...a taste of Europe in the Rocky Mountains.

Often referred to as "Tuscany in the Rockies," an integral part of the Red Rooster's unique appeal is the land that surrounds it. If you're interested in exploring the valley beyond, there's always Aspen; the natural hot-springs pool and spa in Glenwood Springs; world-class golfing and fly-fishing in Carbondale and Basalt; the almost ghost-town of Marble-all are within a fifteen to forty-five minute drive from the Red Rooster. Cross-country and downhill skiing, ice-skating and sledding in the winter (4WD vehicle is highly recommended); hiking, biking, horseback-riding, swimming, rafting, golfing, fishing in the summer.

Lodging at the Red Rooster follows a few simple rules: beds you sink into and never want to get out of; bookshelves filled with great books; loads of private nooks, both indoors and out; indulgent baths with homemade natural soaps; quiet nights and invigorating mornings; rooms with a view.

Next up, beautiful Fall Foliage in Missouri, of all places! But, it's some of the best in the country and at quite a location - a vineyard! It's worth checking out, along with the countryside - Next! >>

Fall at Good Medicine Lodge, Whitefish, MT

2006-09-03T19:08:00.002-04:00

When you head to Montana, big sky country, you know you're in for a treat. Fact is, you can tour fall foliage here even if you're in Idaho, Wyoming, North or South Dakota - but then, those states have their own leaves changing colors on a grand scale. However, we had to take note of the leaves around Whitefish, Montana. Here, the leaves seemed to explode off the trees in vibrant colors and the backdrop for this was beautiful Whitefish Mountain - which has already received a dusting of snow this year (2008).

You can plan a trip to see leaves change and enjoy the hospitality of the folk in Montana. They say you won't leave the same. Big Sky does something to you.

Get back to nature in style at this Western-inspired cedar timber roadhouse with Native American accents. The air is crisp, and the panoramic mountain views take on a glorious golden glow when the aspens change colors.

Enjoy a foliage hike in close by Glacier National Park or visit the National Bison Range and see herds of North America's largest mammals. 800-860-5488; goodmedicinelodge.com.

Situated in Whitefish, Montana and in the heart of America's greatest outdoor recreational region, Good Medicine Lodge is only a few turns from The Big Mountain, a short hike from Glacier Park, a paddle away from Whitefish River and Lake, and a nine iron from the Flathead Valley's nine golf courses.

Their six spacious rooms and three suites, most with balconies and mountain views, have private baths, vaulted wood ceilings and custom made lodgepole or iron beds. The flexible accommodations feature either king, queen, or twin arrangements and our largest suite can sleep five. Breakfast each morning includes fresh baked muffins, breads or cobblers, cereals, granola, yogurt, a variety of egg dishes, waffles or pancakes, coffee, tea and juice.

Good Medicine Lodge is built of cedar timbers and has a rustic and informal atmosphere. Decorated in a western motif, the roomy interiors are punctuated by crackling fireplaces and solid wood furnishings with fabrics influenced by Native American textiles. For travelers' convenience, there is a guest laundry and ski room with boot and glove dryers. And for travelers' enjoyment, they have an outdoor spa.

Named one of Travel America Magazine's "10 Most Romantic Inns", Good Medicine Lodge has been called "casual yet chic" by National Geographic Traveler Magazine, "inviting" by The Boston Herald, "cozy" by Tacoma's The News Tribune and "peaceful and comfortable" by the San Antonio "Express News".

They are proud members of the Professional Association of Innkeepers International, the Montana Bed and Breakfast Association and the Green Hotel Association. We have earned a three diamond rating from AAA and are Montana Superhosts. The lodge is wheelchair accessible.

Biking through Glacier National Park couldn't be more awe-inspiring. But wait to you see what awaits in Colorado! Mount Sopris is in its glory - the best place to see it all - Next >>

Berry Springs Lodge, Sevierville, TN - Fall Colors

2006-09-03T18:15:00.002-04:00

My mom lives in Crossville, Tennessee, but she has always said the best colors are over in Sevierville. Can you say Smoky Mountains? We didn't know fall foliage was so close to mom's. You can easily take any of the main highways from Kentucky and Virginia and see beauty as you roll into this neck of the woods. It's non-stop when it starts. This year expect autumn color leaves changing to happen now to mid November. It's a little late this year because of the warm air. Tennessee has also suffered a lack of rain and this will cause the leaves to start changing later.

One of the best tours for leaves has to be around Sevierville. Check our video below and you'll see what you're in for. It's simply amazing the colors and the terrain - rolling hills turning into bluffs and mountains.

Take in the 360-degree views from your balcony high high up the Smoky Mountain mist. There are two fishing ponds on the 33-acre spread. Town diversions include Dollywood and Cades Cove, a section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park known for black bear and whitetail deer spotting. 888-760-8297; berrysprings.com.

Berry Springs Lodge is a relaxing Smoky Mountain bed and breakfast resort retreat intended for guests that are looking for a quiet romantic getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains. A place for rest, rejuvenation, discovery, and new beginnings. Sit back and take delight in the breath-taking view on a porch above a mist covered valley.

Walk down the trail and enjoy the tranquil rippling water as a bass or a catfish swims by to see who is visiting. Before your relaxing adventure is complete, make sure you warm your toes by the camp fire and listen for the soothing sounds of nature. Coming soon Gatlinburg cabin rentals!

Berry Springs Lodge offers much more than your average Gatlinburg bed and breakfast, this Smoky Mountain resort offers many activities and amenities. You can fish in either our bass or catfish ponds, ride bikes on either our mountain trail or our loop trail, play horseshoes, canoe, play table tennis, volleyball, hike or just sit back and enjoy the beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains from your rocking chair on the main deck.

Wonderful colors on this 6 and a half minute video through the woods in Tennessee. And up next, we travel halfway across this great country to Montana to check on the action. Let's meet at the Good Medicine Lodge, Next! >>

The Foxfield Inn, Charlottesville, VA - Fall Colors

2006-09-03T16:06:00.001-04:00

If you're looking to take the family to a place where you can see the leaves change colors and then pack a lot of other activities into the same trip, Charlottesville, Virginia, is your headquarters. We showcase the Foxfield Inn here, but there is so much to see, you'll have to plan another trip. Of course, you could make this a tradition and come back each fall to see those leaves - but we'll leave that to you. This is one of those places that is off the beaten path, but includes tons of history as well.

Make sure you spend at least four days around this part of the country so you can not only do some driving, but soak in the culture that makes up this part of Virginia. Autumn leaves are now changing in Charlottesville and surrounds.

Located on a crest in the Blue Ridge Mountain domain, this rural hideaway is surrounded by trees. In fall, the oaks turn stunning shades of red.

Visit Monticello, Jefferson's home, in close by Charlottesville or stop in at the local wineries for a tasting. 866-369-3536; foxfield-inn.com.

Enjoy warm hospitality in a gracious and elegant country Inn with the modern amenities of today. The Foxfield Inn Bed and Breakfast is a perfect place to get away and enjoy a rejuvenating change of pace.

The Foxfield is the Inn for Bed & Breakfast Inn Guests seeking a experience to remember in a comfortable and relaxed environment. Free wireless high speed internet access is available.

Discover all that Charlottesville has to offer including Jefferson's Monticello, University of Virginia and the historic downtown. Charlottesville was named the "Best Place to Live in America" describing Charlottesville as "a special mix of college-town and historic amenities and is clean and heavily shaded.". Other accolades include Money magazine best places to live 2000 and 1999, Reader's Digest top 10 places to raise a family, A&E Television #6 best place to live in America.

Selected by USA Today as one of ten great places to stay this Fall.

We're off to Sevierville, Tennessee now, where the Smoky Mountains are in beautiful cover. All the colors of fall await in the park known for black bear and whitetail deer. Next >>

Victorian by the Sea, Camden, ME - Fall Foliage

2006-09-03T15:27:00.001-04:00

When my sister moved to Searsport, Maine, we had no idea that part of the country was so diverse. Ocean, hills, beaches, flatlands - all make Maine a paradise. But Camden has to be hands down the most striking autumn leaves capital of the state. Here, you will see dramatic colors as the trees turn all shades and the leaves drop to the ground and form those huge piles of fall leaves that are so fun to jump in. With port after port, the scenery around Camden, Maine, is a must see. And Camden, Maine, lodging is a piece of cake with many wonderful hotels and bed and breakfasts.

We fell in love with Victorian by the Sea and you will, too. From the moment you arrive, you feel so relaxed and welcome. The view cannot be beat - you've come for the fall foliage in Maine and you're next to the ocean. How cool is that?

When the harvest time light is just so, you can double your pleasure and see the mirror reflection of leaves in the water below this Queen Anne cottage in coastal Maine.

Watch the schooners sailing by on Penobscot Bay or, even better, get on one for a spectacular view of this colorful season from the water. 800-382-9817; victorianbythesea.com.

Located on a quiet country road overlooking Penobscot Bay for more than a century, The Victorian by the Sea is your peaceful home away from home while exploring Camden and Coastal Maine.

The Inn features magnificent ocean views, a private path to a cliff above the ocean, colorful country gardens, comfy pillow-top mattresses, private baths - most with antique clawfoot soaking tubs, a fireplace in every room, luxurious personalized amenities, warm fluffy robes, and a full delicious breakfast served daily in the ocean-view Sunroom or on the wrap-around porch.

They are proud to have been voted "Best in the US" for 2004 by readers of Arrington's Inn Traveler Magazine, and to be recommended by Fodor's New England, Victorian Homes Magazine, Country Home Magazine, and AAA (three diamond rating).

Treat yourself to a this video of a flight over Bethel, Maine, where the colors are just awesome. Then come along to Charlottesville, Virginia, near Monticello where the leaves are splendid. Next! >>

Lodge on Apple Pie Ridge, Alto, GA - Fall Colors

2006-09-03T15:05:00.001-04:00

If you're looking for the best fall colors as the autumn leaves change in Georgia, then Alto is your destination and the Lodge on Apple Pie Ridge is the place to stay. We're not kidding - this place is as nice as it sounds. When you arrive, the kids will probably want to head to the swaying bridge - which we found doesn't sway that much - and overlook the beauty. I would say this is where you break out the video camera and just camp out for ten minutes taking it all in. We were awestruck. Nowhere else did we find a waterfall and leaves so nice that we stopped in our tracks.

If you live anywhere near Atlanta, you have no excuse to drive to Alto and check out what is literally in your back yard.

"Tucked on a hillside among massive oaks, mountain laurel and native dogwoods, this inn offers North Georgia mountain views that go on for days. Vista Mother Nature's autumn artistry from the decks at this finely crafted log mansion," they say.

Stand in awe for the cascade and foliage views from the slowly swaying suspension bridge transcending the canyon in Tallulah Gorge State Park. 888-339-1374; lodgeonapplepieridge.com.

Taking skilled craftsmen over two years to bring to life, the Lodge transformed centuries-old pine logs, local stone and reclaimed wood into a work of art. For an indulgent week-long stay or a romantic weekend get away, escape to our peaceful clearing in the north Georgia mountains.

Hike a quiet mountain trail, shop for antiques, or curl up in front of a crackling fire with a good book.

Have your next celebration or group outing in our special events spaces. Celebrate your wedding or party among our landscaped grounds. They promise to treat you like family and welcome you back again and again.

Let's go due north and check out the foliage in Maine. In Camden it is absolutely stunning. Penobscot Bay and the Victorian by the Sea, await! >>

Fall Viewing at Hillside Inn, Ephraim, WI

2006-09-03T14:37:00.001-04:00

Everyone we know who has driven through Door County, Wisconsin, returns a different person. Okay, that might be slightly exaggerated, but they do have a new perspective on their definition of beauty and nature. We're so glad the founding fathers have kept this area of the country from urban sprawl. So when you get up as far as Ephraim, Wisconsin, you have arrived on what is the best area in Door County to see fall leaves changing to those golden colors of autumn. Plus, you get to take part in the towns and B&B's that make this place so special.

Prepare to be joined by hundreds of others who have found Door County foliage spectacular this time of year. Now through late November is prime time for fall foliage. This season, 2007, the area has been hit with enough rain not to have any delay.

"The vista from the 100-foot porch is so perfect, it feels like the sun is setting just for guests of this Door County roadhouse looking down on Eagle Harbor. The light reflecting off the water gives magnificent clarity to the leaf colors of Peninsula State Park on the other side of the harbor," Soule says.

Snag some game fish, perch or trout and have it smoked at a nearby fish house. 866-673-8456; visitephraim.com.

The Hillside Inn of Ephraim, located in the heart of the picturesue village of Ephraim reopened in July of 2002. The inn has been luxuriously renovated with careful attention to preserving the original integrity and simplicity of this white-painted landmark that has welcomed travelers to Door County since the late 1800's.

Standing upon the porch at the Hillside Inn, Peninsula State Park is visible across picturesque Eagle Harbor. Established in 1909, the park is a 3,776-acre state treasure. Considered Wisconsin's most complete park, Peninsula State Park has nearly seven miles of Lake Michigan's Green Bay shoreline that wraps around a landscape of forests, meadows, wetlands and rocky bluffs that ascend over 150 feet.

This video shows the beautiful colors of the maple trees as leaves fall here in Door County. And next, we journey to Alto, Georgia where the bridge at the Tallulah Gorge State Park is in full swing! >>

Autumn Leaves at Four Columns Inn, Newfane VT

2006-09-03T14:23:00.001-04:00

Vermont is one of those states that is splendid and lends to road trips. And any time of the year is a good time to see Vermont. In Newfane, the leaves on the hillside begin to change mid-October and you get that fall foliage in New England look that is so remarkable. What I liked best here is the way the style of the homes and the way they sit in contrast against the forest. And autumn makes for that perfect time when the air is not too cold, but night can bring a briskness that lends to mom making some apple cider.

At Four Columns Inn, the foliage turns golden right behind the property. Make plans to visit now and take advantage of all the autumn leaves along the road winding through this area of Vermont.

On the town green of a timeless New England borough, this roadhouse offers the definitive harmony of township and country life. In front, you'll find streets with white clapboard, green-shuttered buildings, the Windham County Courthouse and a fountain, and in back, 150 wooded acres, including a private mountain, ablaze with ever-changing shades of the season's colors.

"There's a staff horticulturist not to mention the property is just charming. Stroll down a close by country county road to the Newfane Rural depot and shop for all things Vermont, including quilts, chocolate and maple candy," Soule says. 800-787-6633; fourcolumnsinn.com.

Romantic Vermont Inn

Tucked away on a tranquil village green, The Four Columns inn sits nestled at the foot of a 150-acre private mountain. Fulfilling all your romantic notions of southern Vermont, our white, Federal-style inn (complete with green shutters and a rooster weathervane!) offers 15 comfortably elegant rooms and rambling grounds with back-to-nature trails through wooded forests. For guests who want to stay connected during their stay, we offer high-speed wireless internet access in our common areas, and in rooms 8 through 15 in the main building.

Early in the afternoons, you’ll notice the aroma of dinner being prepared as the kitchen staff gears up for the evening's visitors. Our famous restaurant and long-time executive chef Greg Parks are favorites of our guests and locals alike.

In the fall and winter seasons, Four Columns is a favorite for leaf peeping, skiiing, or curling up by the fire. In fall, the trees are bursting with color and the crisp air invites walks through the grounds or down local country lanes. Summer brings hiking, biking, kayaking in the Green Mountains, or just lounging around the grounds and relaxing by the stream or pool. Call (800) 787-6633 now to check availability.

See the Vermont countryside come alive in this video and then catch up with us as we visit Door County in Wisconsin for fantastic foliage. Next >>

Fall Colors at Cliff Park Inn, Milford, PA

2006-09-03T14:01:00.000-04:00

Closer to New York City than Philadelphia, Milford, Pennsylvania, along the Delaware River is worth the trip out of New York because you have two forces of nature in harmony: the beautiful fall foliage of autumn leaves changing gracefully and the Delaware River running through the forest here. So your search is over for the best places to see fall leaves around New York - might be here. And Cliff Park Inn makes the perfect home base. Running from here, northeast and southwest, you will get miles and miles of amazing fall colors - all happening now!

Dramatic golden hues so close to a major population area is a gift and a weekend car trip here will be unforgettable.

A series of dramatic cliffs alongside the inn's 7 miles of trails overlooks three states not to mention the Delaware River. "Leaf peepers will drop their jaws. It's the only B&B in the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and there's even a golf course," says Soule. 800-225-6535; cliffparkinn.com.

Offering beautiful views of the Delaware Water Gap near the quaint town of Milford, PA, the 500-acre Cliff Park Inn offers you a resort getaway to remember. With 14 guestrooms, three restaurants, a 9-hole PGA golf course, and seven miles of hiking trails, Cliff Park Inn is the perfect choice for your next vacation.

Enjoy the magnificent video from the train as it winds through Pennsylvania. Then, join us as we venture to the land of quilts, fudge, and maple candy as the leaves keep amazing us... Next! >>