Mount Magazine State Park | Arkansas
As the highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine State Park attracts visitors for its views. If you’re into extreme sports, there are plenty of opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, and ATV riding—there are even designated hang gliding spots. Consider staying at one of the 60 guest rooms at The Lodge, where you can unwind in the indoor swimming pool and dine at Skycrest Restaurant.
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Lake Geneva | Wisconsin
Located about an hour from downtown Chicago, Lake Geneva is a picturesque fall getaway. A 21-mile path winds around the lake and through the autumn colors. There are hiking trails, scenic boat cruises, scooter tours, and plenty of golfing options. If you visit the weekend of October 10 and 11, check out Oktoberfest, where you’ll find a beer garden, artisan market, and nightly entertainment. At the Maxwell Mansion, a historic estate that doubles as a boutique hotel, guests can choose from 28 rooms in the mansion, stables, or carriage house.
Great River Road | Illinois
Hugging the shores of the Mississippi River, the scenic road stretches from Galena to Cairo in Illinois. For a shorter trip, consider starting in Alton and traveling to Cairo, in southern Illinois. Grab a burger at Fast Eddie’s Bon Air. In Chester’s Segar Memorial Park, pose in front of a statue of Popeye, dedicated in honor of the comic book character’s creator, Elzie C. Segar. Plan to stay near the Shawnee National Forest, where you can hike, kayak, or canoe. And before returning to St. Louis, visit Cairo, the former booming river town with a long history.
M-22 Highway | Michigan
The Michigan highway is considered one of the most scenic fall drives in the country. The 116-mile stretch takes you through three counties in Northern Michigan: Manistee, Benzie, and Leelanau. In Manistee, explore the downtown business district, take a private boat cruise, and visit the Douglas Valley Winery and Tasting Room. Farther north, plan a story at the Point Betsie Lighthouse and Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. And in Leland, one of the last commercial fishing villages in Michigan, peruse the boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
Parke County | Indiana
Parke County is best known for its covered bridges—and for good reason: The county is home to 31 covered bridges, as well as the Covered Bridge Festival (happening this year from October 9–18). The county has several novelty stores and even a one-room school you can visit. For a memorable stay, unwind at Granny’s Farm Bed and Breakfast or at the Covered Bridge Motel.
Door County | Wisconsin
With 300 miles of diverse coastline, Door County stuns in autumn when the maples and golden birches transform into a canopy of colors. Visitors in the fall months are greeted with cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and no shortage of activities. Enjoy hikes through Peninsula State Park and ferry rides to Washington Island. With its laid-back charm and a downtown packed with galleries, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants, Fish Creek is a popular base in Northern Door County. Experience a traditional fish boil at Kettle Black Restaurant, and book a stay at Cedar Court Inn, one of the original lodging resorts in the region.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways | Missouri
Crisp air, changing fall colors, and fewer crowds make the Ozark Highlands an ideal destination during the autumn months. The crystal-clear waters of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers reflect the fall colors and make for an especially picturesque journey down the river. Visitors can paddle a kayak, hike forested trails, or explore historic mills tucked among the hills on this protected stretch of the Ozarks. You can find cozy cabins in the Ozark National Forest on Airbnb. (Read more on scenic Missouri rivers here.)
Hocking Hills | Ohio
Famous for its sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and caves, Hocking Hills transforms into a kaleidoscope of color each fall. Trails to Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls showcase the region’s dramatic scenery, while zipline tours and canopy walks offer a bird’s-eye view of the foliage. The variety of cabins and lodges tucked into the woods make it an ideal autumn retreat. On October 10, the Grandma Gatewood’s Fall Colors Hike will take place, and on September 12, the Hocking Hills Trail Run winds through the rugged terrain with distances for every runner.
North Shore | Minnesota
Stretching along Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota’s North Shore offers some of the Midwest’s most spectacular fall scenery. A drive up Highway 61 reveals golden birch and fiery maples framing the lake in a rural part of the state. Plan for stops at Split Rock Lighthouse, to learn about its history that dates back to 1910, and Tettegouche State Park and Gooseberry Falls State Park for hiking and scenic views. Stay at Cove Point Lodge for Lake Superior views from each room and easy access to all major state parks.
Starved Rock State Park | Illinois
Starved Rock State Park, named after a Native American legend, is recognized as one of Illinois’ top destinations to experience the fall colors. Visitors can hike 13 miles of trails, take a riverboat cruise, or drive Route 71 that winds through the park. The park includes 18 canyons, numerous waterfalls, and scenic views over the Illinois River. Accommodations in the park include a lodge and rustic cabins. The park is offering reduced rates for the month of September.
