The Best Fall Trips for Kids: Pumpkins, Foliage, and Family Fun

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Ideas For Your Fall Vacation Getaway

If you’re a Hocus Pocus fan like I am, you’ve probably dreamed of a fall getaway filled with crunchy leaves, cozy sweaters, and maybe even a little Halloween magic. Fall is one of the most magical seasons to travel with kids. The air gets crisp, the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold, and pumpkin-flavored everything starts showing up (including in roadside farm stands).

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer fall break adventure, there are so many destinations that offer classic autumn fun with a family-friendly twist. Here are some amazing fall vacation ideas that kids—and parents—will love.

Be sure to also check out my list of the best pumpkin patches throughout the U.S. to further inspire your fall travel plans.

1. Salem, Massachusetts – One of the Best Fall Family Vacation Ideas for History Lovers

Because I mentioned Hocus Pocus above, seeing Salem at the top of this list shouldn’t surprise you. Salem is best known for its witch trials history, but it’s also a lively fall destination packed with Halloween-themed fun, charming architecture, and educational attractions that aren’t too scary for kids. Salem is also ideal for a long weekend getaway, allowing families to experience the highlights in just a few days. And it’s often included on many families’ fall bucket list for its unique blend of history and festive atmosphere.

I’d choose to go here with a bit older kids so they can understand and appreciate the history here.

Introduction to Salem, Massachusetts

Salem, Massachusetts, is a fantastic choice for a fall break, blending centuries of history with the vibrant colors and crisp air of the fall season. While the city is world-famous for its witch trials, Salem’s appeal goes far beyond spooky stories. Its historic downtown is filled with charming architecture, unique shops, and cozy cafes, all set against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage.

The city’s maritime heritage is on display along the scenic waterfront, where you can enjoy pleasant weather and take in the natural beauty of the harbor. Autumn in Salem means perfect weather for exploring walking trails, taking scenic drives through the surrounding countryside, and soaking up the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a memorable fall trip, Salem offers a little something for everyone.

Family Fall Fun:

• Walk through the Salem Witch Museum or Witch Dungeon Museum (geared toward older kids/tweens)
• Join a kid-friendly walking tour of historic Salem or hop on the Salem Trolley
• Visit Pioneer Village, a living history museum that looks like a scene from early colonial America
• Stroll through the Haunted Happenings street festival in October—costumes encouraged!
• You might even consider visiting while on a fall foliage cruise in New England

Tip: Many events are geared toward families during the day, while evenings can get busier and spookier (better suited for older kids). Also, visiting Salem during weekdays or earlier in October can mean fewer crowds. You will need to book tickets in advance for some of the popular attractions, including The Salem Witch Museum, The House of the Seven Gables, and The Peabody Essex Museum.

Check out my post that discusses all of the best things to do in Salem, Ma

Planning Your Trip to Salem

Planning your fall trip to Salem is a breeze, thanks to the city’s central location and wide range of accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel with all the amenities or a cozy bed-and-breakfast, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your family’s needs.

Salem is compact and walkable, so you can easily explore the historic sites, museums, and waterfront without needing a car (which is great because parking is limited in busier months). If you’re up for a day trip, Boston is just a short train ride away, offering even more opportunities for adventure.

The surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the fall season’s pleasant weather. Families will love the Salem Willows Arcade and Park, which features an indoor pool and lots of fun things to do for kids of all ages. And don’t miss the city’s lively fall festivals, like the Salem Arts Festival and the Grand Parade of Witches, which add extra magic to your fall break.

Where to Stay:

October is the busiest month in Salem, so if you plan to visit then, you’ll want to book your accommodations early.

• The Salem Inn – Family suites available in a historic building
• Hawthorne Hotel – Iconic and centrally located
• Hotel Salem – Trendy and walkable to all the sights

2. Stowe, Vermont

If you’re chasing fall foliage, Stowe is hard to beat. This charming New England town offers mountain views, vibrant leaf colors, and plenty of outdoor activities. Stowe is often included on families’ fall bucket lists and is considered one of the best destinations for autumn travel.

Family Fall Fun:

• Ride the Stowe Gondola SkyRide for panoramic views
• Visit Percy Farm Corn Maze
• Take a scenic drive along Route 108 (Smugglers’ Notch)

Bonus: Stop at a maple sugarhouse for warm syrup samples!

Where to Stay:

• Trapp Family Lodge – Austrian-style mountain resort with trails and family activities
• Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa – Spacious suites and a central location
• Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge – Budget-friendly with indoor pool and nature trails

3. Door County, Wisconsin – One of the best fall vacation ideas in the Midwest

This Midwest gem becomes a sea of orange and gold in the fall, and it’s packed with small-town charm and fun harvest festivals. Door County is often featured in lists of fall break vacation ideas thanks to its abundance of family-friendly activities and scenic beauty, making it one of the top fall break destinations for families.

Family Fall Fun:

• Pick apples or pumpkins at one of the many orchards (like Lautenbach’s Orchard)
• Attend a fall festival or scarecrow decorating event
• Explore Peninsula State Park for colorful hikes and bike rides

Tip: The ferry ride to Washington Island is a fun mini-adventure.

Where to Stay:

• Edgewater Resort (Ephraim) – Waterfront suites with kitchenettes
• The Landing Resort (Egg Harbor) – Large rooms and indoor pool
• Open Hearth Lodge (Sister Bay) – Cozy, with nearby trails

4. Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant mix of outdoor adventure and creative culture. In fall, the cooler weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic surroundings.

Family Fall Fun:

• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (known as “America’s Favorite Drive”) during peak foliage
• Visit the WNC Nature Center to see regional wildlife
• Go apple picking at Sky Top Orchard (kids love the tractor rides and cider donuts!)

Where to Stay:

• The Omni Grove Park Inn – Luxury resort with views and family activities
• Engadine Inn & Cabins – Private cabins great for families
• Country Inn & Suites – Budget-friendly and close to attractions

5. North Conway, New Hampshire

If you’re interested in fall vacation ideas on the east coast, North Conway in the fall is one of New England’s most iconic destinations—especially for families. Tucked in the heart of the White Mountains, this charming mountain town is known for its epic foliage, cozy small-town vibes, and tons of family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re in it for the scenic drives, pumpkin patches, or old-fashioned fun, North Conway is a dream come true in October.

Family Fall Fun:

• Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad
• Take a foliage hike around Diana’s Baths
• Visit Sherman Farm’s Corn Maize & Pumpkin Patch

Don’t Miss: The Kancamagus Highway for one of the best scenic drives in the country.

Where to Stay:

• Red Jacket Mountain View Resort – Features the Kahuna Laguna water park and other on-site amenities like pools and family activities, making it easy to maximize your vacation time without leaving the property.
• Eastern Slope Inn Resort – Centrally located with kitchenettes and convenient on-site facilities for families.
• Residence Inn by Marriott – Spacious rooms, family-friendly, and offers on-site amenities to help you make the most of your vacation time.

6. Hudson Valley, New York– Another popular fall vacation idea on the East Coast

The Hudson Valley, New York is one of the most iconic and picturesque places to visit in the fall—especially if you’re traveling with kids. It’s only a couple of hours from New York City but feels worlds away, offering a more relaxed and scenic alternative to enjoying fall foliage in Central Park. If you’re looking for fall vacation ideas complete with rolling hills, historic farms, charming towns, and showstopping fall foliage, the Hudson Valley has just what you’re looking for.

Family Fall Fun:

• Pumpkin Patches & Apple Orchards: This is prime apple-picking and pumpkin-hunting country! Many orchards also have hayrides, corn mazes, cider donuts, and even petting zoos—perfect for kids.
• Visit LEGOLAND New York’s Brick-or-Treat fall festivities
• Sleepy Hollow & The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze – A little spooky, but still kid-appropriate. Over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins light up a historic estate—pure Halloween magic.
• Enjoy the historic charm. The valley is home to dozens of colonial towns with main streets lined with cafes, bookstores, and farm-to-table restaurants. You can tour a historic estate surrounded by fall colors (like the Vanderbilt Mansion).
• Local Wine Festivals: The Hudson Valley hosts several wine festivals in the fall, where families can enjoy live music, local food, and activities for kids, while adults sample regional wines.

Where to Stay:

• Mohonk Mountain House (New Paltz) – Historic resort with lake activities
• Emerson Resort & Spa – Family-friendly with nearby trails
• Courtyard by Marriott Fishkill – Close to orchards and LEGOLAND

7. Leavenworth, Washington – One of the best fall vacation destinations on the West Coast

Leavenworth, Washington in the fall is like stepping into a storybook—a Bavarian-style mountain village surrounded by golden forests, crisp mountain air, and charming seasonal festivities. It’s a fantastic fall vacation destination for families, especially if you want a mix of scenic beauty, pumpkin-spiced everything, and just a little Oktoberfest magic (with kid-friendly vibes). Leavenworth is also a popular choice for fall break vacations, thanks to its festive atmosphere and family-friendly events that make it perfect for a seasonal getaway.

Family Fall Fun:

• Hike family-friendly trails to see colorful leaves
• Festive Atmosphere — The whole town embraces the season with fall decorations, themed events, and warm hospitality.
• Visit a local farm for pumpkin picking
• Enjoy Oktoberfest-style music and treats (plenty of non-alcoholic fun for kids!)
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides are available in the village—adds a fun, fairy-tale touch to your trip.

Check out this complete list of the best things to do in Leavenworth.

Where to Stay:

• Bavarian Lodge – Charming and close to town events
• Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort – Eco-friendly and nature-focused
• Icicle Village Resort – Family suites, mini-golf, and pool

8. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster, Pennsylvania in the fall is a hidden gem for family travel. If you want fall vacation ideas that deliver beautiful countryside, working Amish farms, cozy small towns, and classic fall traditions like corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and harvest festivals, this is for you. Lancaster offers a nostalgic, slower-paced autumn getaway that’s perfect for kids and parents alike.

Family Fall Fun:

• Hop on a hayride at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
• Explore the Strasburg Rail Road’s fall-themed train rides–they offer seasonal events like the Trick-or-Treat Train and Fall Harvest Days.
• Visit Kitchen Kettle Village for handmade treats and crafts
• Families can also visit nearby theme parks for even more entertainment options.

Where to Stay:

• Fulton Steamboat Inn – Fun steamboat-themed hotel
• Cartoon Network Hotel – Fully themed rooms and daily kids’ activities – this hotel also appears on my list of best theme resorts in the U.S.
• DoubleTree Resort by Hilton – Spacious and close to Amish attractions

9. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

The Smokies explode with color in October, and there’s no shortage of family-friendly hikes and attractions. The region is consistently ranked among the best fall vacations for families, and the surrounding cities also make my list of the best mountain towns in the U.S. to visit.

In fact, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S., attracting over 12 million visitors annually. And it’s especially popular during the fall for its stunning foliage. The Smokies are often included on families’ fall bucket list for their breathtaking scenery and classic autumn experiences.

Family Fall Fun:

• Walk Clingmans Dome or Laurel Falls Trail
• Visit Dollywood’s Harvest Festival and Great Pumpkin LumiNights
• The Island in Pigeon Forge – this shopping and entertainment complex is decked out for fall. Kids can ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, play arcade games, or enjoy a fountain light show.
• Stop at local farms for cider, donuts, and pumpkin picking

Many families enjoy visiting the Great Smoky Mountains during fall for its stunning foliage, with activities such as hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting being particularly popular. In fact, the Smokies are one of the top fall break ideas for families seeking outdoor adventure.

Where to Stay:

• Margaritaville Island Hotel (Pigeon Forge) – Fun and central
• Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort – Seasonal décor and shuttles to the park
• The Lodge at Buckberry Creek (Gatlinburg) – Rustic luxury and great access to trails
• See a complete list of awesome family hotels in Gatlinburg here along with these Pigeon Forge water park hotels.

10. Julian, California – One of the most popular fall vacation ideas in Southern California

Looking for a fall getaway on the West Coast? Julian is an adorable mountain town east of San Diego, famous for its apple pies. Early fall in Julian brings warm weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities like apple picking and exploring the mountains. There are plenty of traditional fall activities here, like apple picking and gold panning. And there are great places to camp in Julian in the fall as well.

Family Fall Fun:

• Pick apples at a nearby orchard
• Visit the Julian Mining Company for gold panning and a pumpkin patch
• Check out one of the family activities or haunted hayrides at Fort Cross
• Enjoy a slice of fresh-baked pie from Julian Pie Company

Where to Stay:

• Julian Gold Rush Hotel – Historic inn with a quaint vibe
• Apple Tree Inn – Affordable and close to orchards
• Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge – Spacious rooms and peaceful setting

11. Woodstock, Vermont

Here’s another of great fall vacation idea on the East Coast. This postcard-perfect town is pure fall magic, with classic architecture and vibrant foliage. If you visit during weekdays or earlier in the season, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.

Family Fall Fun:

• Visit Billings Farm & Museum for fall harvest fun
• Take a scenic stroll or drive through the countryside
• Browse a local farmers market for fall goodies

Where to Stay:

• Woodstock Inn & Resort – Cozy luxury with activities for all ages
• 506 On the River Inn – Family suites and a game room
• The Shire Woodstock – Walkable and riverside charm

Fall Foliage and Attractions

One of the biggest draws of a fall trip is the breathtaking fall foliage that sweeps across much of the country. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, destinations like the Northeastern United States, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Blue Ridge Parkway become living postcards. These regions are famous for their scenic drives—think winding roads flanked by fiery maples and rolling hills blanketed in color—making them some of the best places to experience the magic of the fall season.

Families and couples alike will find plenty to do beyond just admiring the views. Hiking and biking trails wind through forests bursting with color, while local farms open their gates for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and festive hayrides. Wine festivals pop up throughout the season, offering a chance to sample local flavors against a backdrop of autumn beauty.

If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your fall vacation, consider booking a stay at a luxury hotel or resort. Many properties offer special fall packages, complete with cozy amenities and curated experiences designed to help you soak up the season’s charm. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo, planning a scenic drive, or simply looking to relax in a beautiful setting, fall foliage destinations deliver unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Spending a Few Extra Days: Extending Your New England Adventure

If you have a few extra days to spare during your fall break, New England is the perfect place to linger and explore even more. The region’s pleasant weather and natural beauty make it easy to fill your itinerary with memorable experiences. Consider taking a day trip to Acadia National Park, where dramatic coastlines and colorful forests create a stunning fall backdrop. Or, venture to Watkins Glen State Park to hike among waterfalls framed by brilliant leaves—a true highlight for nature lovers.

For those who love city adventures, Central Park in New York City is a must-see during the fall season, offering iconic views and plenty of space for kids to run and play. History buffs can walk the Freedom Trail in Boston or visit other historic sites scattered throughout the region. With fewer crowds than the summer rush, you’ll have more space to enjoy scenic drives along the coast of Maine or through charming small towns.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, or just a little extra relaxation, spending a few extra days in New England lets you experience some of the best destinations for a fall vacation. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your vacation time and create lasting family memories.

Turning Your Fall Vacation Ideas into Reality:

Fall is short, but the memories can last all year. Whether you’re crunching leaves underfoot on a trail, sipping cider on a hayride, or helping your kids find the perfect pumpkin, these destinations deliver the magic of the season in spades. Because most of these are small towns, you’ll want to book early. Most of the accommodations are on the smaller side and will book up in advance.

Once you decide where to go, grab a cozy sweater, load up the car, and hit the road—your next family fall adventure is waiting!

I’ve also compiled a list of my favorite winter destinations for families, along with some of the most magical Christmas hotels in the U.S. Or, take a peek at these amazing Christmastime hotels in NYC.

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