When fall arrives, New Yorkers don’t have to travel far to witness a spectacular show of color. Within a few hours, the city’s skyline gives way to mountain peaks, quiet lakes, and winding country roads glowing with red and gold. From charming Hudson Valley towns to mountain escapes in Vermont and the Adirondacks, these destinations offer unforgettable leaf-peeping and cozy weekends away. Here are fifteen fall getaways from NYC worth the drive this season.
1. Hudson, New York
About two hours north of Manhattan, Hudson blends small-town charm with creative energy. Its tree-lined streets glow in fiery hues while galleries, vintage shops, and cafés invite leisurely exploring. Don’t miss Olana State Historic Site, where sweeping views of the Hudson Valley showcase a stunning panorama of color. With cozy inns, riverside walks, and local eateries, Hudson makes for a perfect autumn weekend filled with art, culture, and scenery.
2. Lake Placid, New York
Nestled in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid transforms into a fall paradise surrounded by mirror-like lakes and colorful peaks. Visitors can hike scenic trails, paddle across Mirror Lake, or take a drive through High Peaks Wilderness to see rolling hills blanketed in amber tones. The crisp air, alpine lodges, and cozy fireside dining create an inviting escape. With Olympic history and endless views, Lake Placid defines autumn adventure in upstate New York.
3. Woodstock, New York
Woodstock, a little over two hours from NYC, blends artistic soul with nature’s brilliance. Set in the heart of the Catskills, its winding roads lead to cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks glowing with fall color. The town’s galleries, music venues, and farm-to-table cafés keep its creative energy alive year-round. Hike to Kaaterskill Falls or enjoy local cider while surrounded by golden trees; it’s the ultimate autumn getaway for free spirits.
4. Lake George, New York
Each fall, Lake George transforms into a stunning canvas of red, orange, and gold reflected in its mirror-still waters. Surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, it offers endless ways to soak in the season, from scenic cruises and mountain hikes to quaint village strolls. Prospect Mountain’s overlook reveals a sea of color, while cozy inns and lakeside restaurants invite slow, scenic afternoons. With crisp air and glowing hills, it’s a classic New York fall retreat.
5. New Paltz, New York
Just two hours from the city, New Paltz combines rugged natural beauty with timeless Hudson Valley charm. The Shawangunk Ridge glows with color each October, making Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Preserve top spots for hiking and biking. Trails wind past cliffs, waterfalls, and sweeping views of gold-tipped forests. Downtown, cafés and farm markets buzz with autumn flavor, and historic Huguenot Street adds old-world character. It’s adventure, history, and comfort all in one.
6. Cold Spring, New York
Only an hour north of Manhattan, Cold Spring offers everything a perfect fall day trip should. Its charming main street, lined with cafés and antique shops, bursts with energy as the trees turn fiery red and orange. Hike Breakneck Ridge for stunning Hudson River views, or enjoy an easy stroll along the waterfront promenade at sunset. Cozy bistros and small inns complete the picture, giving visitors a relaxed, colorful escape from the city’s pace.
7. Bear Mountain, New York
Less than ninety minutes from NYC, Bear Mountain State Park captures the very heart of autumn. Its winding roads lead to sweeping overlooks where the Hudson River winds through valleys drenched in color. Hike to Perkins Tower for panoramic vistas, rent paddleboats on Hessian Lake, or picnic beneath golden maples. Families love the carousel and the small zoo nearby. With crisp breezes and brilliant leaves, Bear Mountain is the ultimate close-to-home fall getaway.
8. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
About three hours from NYC, the Berkshires combine breathtaking scenery with a touch of sophistication. Rolling hills explode in orange, gold, and crimson each October, while towns like Lenox and Stockbridge host harvest festivals and concerts. Hike Monument Mountain or explore the Norman Rockwell Museum for a dose of art and nostalgia. Farm-to-table restaurants, cozy inns, and spa retreats make the Berkshires a quintessential New England fall getaway.
9. The Poconos, Pennsylvania
Just over two hours from Manhattan, the Pocono Mountains are a leaf-peeper’s paradise filled with color, waterfalls, and crisp mountain air. Drive scenic byways through Delaware Water Gap, kayak on shimmering lakes, or hike wooded trails that glow in every shade of orange. Couples can cozy up in cabins, while families enjoy zip lines, spas, and resorts. With endless outdoor adventure and peaceful lakeside views, the Poconos redefine fall relaxation.
10. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut
Rolling farmland, winding backroads, and covered bridges make Litchfield Hills one of New England’s most enchanting fall escapes. The drive along Route 7 reveals golden valleys and picture-perfect villages like Cornwall and Kent. Stop for fresh pastries in Litchfield town, or explore hiking trails at White Memorial Conservation Center, surrounded by amber leaves. With its gentle pace, historic charm, and endless views, Litchfield Hills feels timeless in autumn.
11. Princeton, New Jersey
Princeton might be known for its Ivy League charm, but in the fall, it shines with natural beauty and culture. The university campus glows beneath fiery maples, creating picture-perfect walks. Palmer Square offers boutique shops, cafés, and outdoor dining surrounded by golden trees. Families can explore nearby orchards or walk along Lake Carnegie’s scenic paths. Elegant yet relaxed, Princeton is an easy and beautiful fall escape less than two hours away.
12. Hunter, New York
In the heart of the Catskills, Hunter Mountain becomes a stunning tapestry of color each fall. Its forested slopes blaze with crimson and gold, drawing hikers, photographers, and festival-goers alike. Take the scenic Skyride to admire panoramic mountain views, or tackle the trails winding through maple and oak. Oktoberfest brings live music, craft beer, and local food under crisp blue skies. With cozy cabins, cool air, and endless vistas, Hunter perfectly captures New York’s autumn magic.
13. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Set in the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe dazzles each fall with its steep hillsides, Victorian charm, and glowing foliage. Ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for sweeping views of crimson forests, or wander cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés. The town’s historic architecture and mountain backdrop create a fairytale atmosphere. As sunlight filters through golden leaves, Jim Thorpe becomes one of the Northeast’s most romantic autumn retreats.
14. Montauk, New York
At Long Island’s far eastern tip, Montauk’s summer crowds fade, revealing windswept beaches and warm golden light. Autumn’s calm brings quieter trails, glowing dunes, and ocean breezes scented with salt and pine. Climb the historic lighthouse for sweeping coastal views or enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor. With tranquil shores, open skies, and breathtaking sunsets, Montauk proves that fall by the sea can be every bit as beautiful as the mountains.
