Fall Foliage on a Budget | Affordable Travel Destinations 

The refreshing crips autumn air is a sign of the new season’s arrival, and ushers in the much-loved tradition of leaf peeping. 

If you’ve been looking for an inspirational getaway for this time of year, check out our favorite affordable fall foliage destinations that best capture the vivid sights and colors of the autumn leaves in all their glory.  

White Mountains, New Hampshire 

Our first stop in our quest to explore budget-friendly fall foliage destinations finds us heading to Lincoln, New Hampshire, in the heart of the White Mountains. Situated less than 2 hours from Boston, the stunning White Mountains make for a superb, affordable getaway to enjoy nature in its most colorful season. 

Serving as a gateway to nature throughout the year, Lincoln, New Hampshire, is considered a less commercialized tourism hotspot during the fall. Here, one of the best things to do in the White Mountains is drive Route 112, also known as the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, which connects Lincoln to Conway for a sensational 34.5-mile road trip. Alternatively, you can enjoy the ultimate relaxing activity by heading to the Granite State Scenic Railway for an 80-minute journey along the banks of the Pemigewasset River while immersed in the surrounding fall foliage. 

Enjoy the idyllic vistas of the golden autumnal colors in the White Mountains before ensuring you get a sound night’s sleep at the Woodwards White Mountain Resort, BW Signature Collection in Lincoln, New Hampshire. 

The Berkshires, Massachusetts 

Next on our shortlist of inexpensive fall foliage escapes, we head next to Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and The Berkshires. If you want to surround yourself with nature while enjoying a spectacular range of hiking trails, then The Berkshires has plenty to offer as a budget-friendly fall getaway. 

Renowned for its rolling hills, lush forests, and serene lake settings, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the leaves’ fiery reds, oranges, and yellow foliage, which naturally enhance your stroll through the countryside. With plenty of hike trail choices available, our favorite is the Berry Pond Trail, which is a 1.4-mile looping trail that seemingly provides countless chances to snap your perfect autumn landscape photos. 

Bask in the New England fall foliage in all its glory before enjoying a great night’s sleep at the Best Western Plus Berkshire Hills Inn & Suites in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. 

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 

A collection of the best locations to go leaf peeping in the US just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Shenandoah National Park as we head next to Harrisonburg, Virginia. If you’re looking for a low-cost vacation to watch the colorful seasonal displays in all their glory, Shenandoah National Park is the ideal getaway. 

Considered one of the most scenic drives in the country at this time of year, the world-famous Skyline Drive is a 105-mile stretch of roadway that winds along the contours of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With fully immersive views in every direction of the autumnal scenery, the Skyline Drive also features several exceptional hiking trails, including the awe-inspiring Doyles River Falls trail. 

Discover the natural beauty of fall in the Shenandoah National Park and enjoy saving on your accommodation by booking your stay at the Best Western Plus Harrisonburg in Harrisonburg, Virginia. 

Finger Lakes, New York 

For our next value-for-money fall foliage getaway, we head up to Hammondsport and the majestic Finger Lakes region of New York State for an autumnal treat for the senses. Visiting Finger Lakes always provides a phenomenal vista of the leaves turning into the golden colors associated with the season. However, the best views are reserved for when you head to Keuka Lake. 

Here, we suggest meeting the crew at Keuka Kayak for a relaxing few hours out on the water, kayaking or paddleboarding for a waterside view of the mar
velous autumn leaves on display. Following that, our second recommendation is ideal after a day on the water and involves heading to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery for a seat overlooking the lake itself as you sample the regional delights on offer. 

Savor the waterfront views and the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes before enjoying a cozy night’s sleep every night at the Best Western Plus, The Hammondsport Hotel in Hammondsport, New York. 

Upper Peninsula, Michigan 

Our final bargain destination for capturing the best fall foliage during the changing seasons finds us in the breathtakingly beautiful region of the Upper Peninsula and Traverse City, Michigan. Best known by leaf peepers who enjoy watching the leaves turn fiery red, orange, and yellow, Traverse City stands out as the autumnal colors create the perfect backdrop along both the West and East arms of Grand Traverse Bay. 

A prime bird-watching destination, the surrounding fall colors make the perfect backdrop for catching a glimpse of the native wildlife, especially when visiting the Boardman River Nature Center. Here, guests are inspired to learn, explore, and help with conservation efforts and witness the local wildlife preparing for the winter months ahead.  

Additionally, be sure also to visit Jacob’s Farm this harvest season, which, for families keen to keep the kids entertained, their fall-inspired, 10-acre Corn Maze will certainly keep them occupied. For the adults amongst you, if you time your visit right, there is an additional highlight of a “Thriller Night,” which happens each year towards the end of October. 

Make the most of your time in the radiant surroundings of the Upper Peninsula by booking your stay at the Best Western Plus Traverse City, Michigan.