Looking for trip destinations this fall? These small towns that make Canadians jealous are absolutely gorgeous!
Leaves are starting to turn yellow, the air is getting crisper and colder, and everyone is going crazy for pumpkin spice drinks. Now that’s what I call a perfect season! While all of them have something nice and unique, autumn is my favorite for sure.
And how celebrate if not by traveling? Preparing our weekend getaway gear and setting up tents in an adorable little village is one of our family’s favorite ways to enjoy the wonders of fall. We often travel to areas with an extensive schedule of festivals, charming bed and breakfasts, a variety of mom-and-pop shops, and exceptional access to the outdoors.
We’re going to give Canadians a few reasons to be jealous of our breathtaking surroundings in the lines that follow. I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list of places to visit, so why waste time? Let’s start!
Lambertville, New Jersey
One of the best destinations for this fall is Lambertville, New Jersey. This is one of those small towns that make Canadians jealous because it is abundant in history, nice landscape, and has welcoming citizens. Because Lambertville is located across the Delaware River from the similarly attractive New Hope, Pennsylvania, a visit there is like getting to see two delightful villages in one.
I would recommend that you stay at the Bridge Street House based on my personal experience. Founded in 1850 and undergoing a comprehensive renovation in 2016, the historic bed and breakfast features two suites, three rooms, and a gallery featuring the creations of nearby artists. Everything in Lambertville’s downtown is accessible by foot from the place, and the big plus is that the parking is free.
Around the area, you can visit art galleries, go on a shopping spree at the antique shops, or enjoy a movie at the Acme Screening Room. If you’re a nature lover, a trip to the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Parks is a must during the fall. Here, you can enjoy long walks, hiking, bicycling, or fishing.
Talkeetna, Alaska
If during the summertime Talkeetna is full of tourists and you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is from late September to March. Also, this might be beneficial for you since the place has limited accommodation, but off-season, it’s easier to get a free room.
Climbers attempt to reach the top of the magnificent Denali in Denali National Park first. Next arrive the visitors from cruise ships, who disembark in Seward and travel to Fairbanks on crowded sightseeing trains, making a stop at the Talkeetna station along the way. Each rustic log cabin at the family-run Denali Fireside Cabins & Suites features a private covered porch and gas fireplace, and it’s only a short stroll from the town.
If you’re a photography enthusiast, then bring your camera with you since Talkeetna offers a breathtaking landscape you will be sorry if you miss it. For those who feel like doing something nice and challenging, book an ATV tour.
Don’t forget to stop by the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum if you’re curious about the heritage of the town. Even the museum’s building has something to tell!
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Among all the small towns that make Canadians jealous, Grand Marais, located in Minnesota, is almost at the top of the list. If you’re a foodie who also likes to travel, then you’re going to love visiting Grand Marais during the fall. Open-fire Viking cooking made with local, fresh ingredients, photography workshops, and sweetgrass basketry are just three of the things Grand Marais has to offer its visitors.
Want to enjoy the scenery and take pictures of everything around you? You should get up early since the challenging climb to Devil’s Kettle Falls at Judge C.R. Magney State Park will take you most of the morning.
Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, at seventy feet, is located at Grand Portage State Park, not far from the Canadian border, and I strongly suggest you check it out if you have never been here before. Another must-do is to travel the thirty miles to Poplar Haus, a lodge, artisan liquor shop, and rustic restaurant located off the picturesque Gunflint Trail. It might sound like a bit too much for one trip, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Park City, Utah
Are there any readers from Utah who can confirm how unbelievable this location is during the fall? A ski town that’s pleasant even without snow is less than 40 minutes from Salt Lake City, and it’s also home to Sundance-screened films. Take advantage of the affordable accommodation prices and fewer crowds during the off-season in the fall.
Park City Peaks Hotel is probably the best place to accommodate yourself because it is pretty close to a ton of other places worth visiting. Round Valley is the first place that comes to mind, a 700-acre nature preserve with over 30 miles of mountain bike trails. If you enjoy driving more, choose the seven-mile Guardsman Pass route and prepare to be blown away by a breathtaking autumn view. The dense oak forest along Pine Canyon Drive is an awe-inspiring sight that will leave you breathless.
After you get a tad tired of hiking and walking, stop by the historic old town on the main street and let yourself enjoy a journey through time and check out all the galleries, cafes, and antique shops.
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Eureka Springs, Arkansas
I know that many people say that this particular destination is mainly destined for those who want to see the Christian communities in the area. But honestly, you don’t need to plan a weekend getaway just for this purpose to find beauty in Eureka Springs.
Enjoy the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, paying particular attention to Hatchet Hall, the former clapboard residence of the hatchet-wielding leader of the temperance movement Carry A. Nation; St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, accessible via the bell tower; and the Palace Hotel and Bath House Spa, evoking memories of Eureka’s heyday as a boomtown known for its hot springs in the 19th century. Restored homes are now charming bed & breakfasts. Book one of the nine rooms at the 5 Ojo Inn to enjoy the best of Southern hospitality.
Add on your must-see places to visit Beaver Lake, Onyx Cave Park (located about 6 miles east of Eureka Springs), and of course Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. No wonder it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places!
Beaufort, North Carolina
Last but not least of the small towns that make Canadians jealous this fall is Beaufort. I recommend this destination for all the history and art lovers who also have a soft spot for photography to explore artifacts salvaged from the shipwrecked Queen Anne’s Revenge, take pictures in Beaufort’s oldest cemetery, or go hiking on one of the two trails available.
You can also enjoy Shackleford Banks, a place reachable by ferry. For an amazing island-hopping experience, I’d recommend you take at least 3 days and look for accommodation at Pecan Tree Inn. It is rated as one of the best places, and because of that, it may be a bit crowded, but worth a shot.
So which destination will you choose this fall? Tell me in the comments.
Are you an adventurous soul always looking to visit new places? Oh dear, you’re in the right place! Check out: 5 Must-See Free State Parks Across America.
