5 Serene Fall Vacations for 2016
A spring vacation is usually wild, a trip in summer is often adventurous, but when you venture forth during the fall, you are usually looking for peace, quiet, and calm. During this in-between season, you can kick back with a warm, spiced drink in a remote location and enjoy the last mild days before winter sets in. Fall is comfortable and cozy no matter where you go, but here are the best places to go this autumn to let your stress fall away like the changing leaves.
Bald Head Island, North Carolina
The islands off North Carolina are a popular vacation spot throughout the summer months, but come September, the tourists leave and the beach towns become desolate and serene. This is especially true of Bald Head Island, off Wilmington toward the southern NC coast. Bald Head is already uncommonly quiet, as the island is home to fewer than 160 locals and cars are not allowed, which means you can find a peace here that is almost impossible to find elsewhere.
Though the air temperatures drop in the fall, the waters are still quite warm, so you can enjoy the last few swims of the year along Bald Head’s shores. Alternatively, you can complete a few rounds at the world-class Bald Head Island Golf Course or tour the island’s recreational sites, like Old Baldy lighthouse or the wildlife conservatory.
Cape May, New Jersey
Wilder parts of New Jersey may attract visitors during the summer months, but Cape May is most beautiful during the fall. This time of year, monarch butterflies flock to the beach town during their annual migration, and for a few weeks, everywhere you look you’ll see a flash of amber wings amongst the trees’ changing leaves.
Plus, the town is loyal to its Victorian past, and most of the buildings retain an elaborate style long gone elsewhere in the country. After a stroll up the beach and down the historic Washington Street shops, you’ll wonder why we ever bothered to leave the tranquil Victorian era.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Strictly pronounced “LANK-isster,” this quaint rural region is famous for its population of Pennsylvania Dutch, more popularly known as Amish folk. Thanks to their devotion to the old ways, the Pennsylvania Dutch have cultivated a beautiful landscape that perfectly embodies the spirit of autumn, with Apple orchards and corn fields ready for harvest, and fresh baked goods available on every street corner. The people in this country are friendly and welcoming ― as long as you respect their customs and say the name of the town with the correct pronunciation.
Great Smokey Mountains, Tennessee
Less a vacation destination and more an essential American experience, the Great Smokey Mountains embody the heart of the American spirit. Standing on a mountain ridge in Tennessee, you can see a panorama of iconic images: the spacious skies, the purple mountains majesty, the amber waves of grain, and so much more. The autumn landscape is even more breathtaking, as the trees erupt in opulent reds and oranges, creating a rainbow landscape that perfectly represents the nation’s character.
There are dozens of ways to enjoy the Great Smokey Mountains during your fall trip. For a more comfortable stay, you can book space in a cabin or a vacation condo; otherwise, you can immerse yourself in nature in a tent or RV camper. However, to maintain the integrity of the Smokey Mountains, you might want to keep your own smokes at home and opt for smokeless e-cigs while you are on this outstanding fall vacation.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Michigan may not be the place to visit during the winter months, but if you can make it up north during the fall, Mackinac Island is a can’t-miss destination. Recognized in the Victorian era as a pristine lakeside resort, Mackinac remains covered in the charming architecture and quaint transportation of a time gone by. Plus, this season is perfect for enjoying the island’s world-famous fudge, which has been made here for nearly a century and a half.
However, during October, few visitors notice the town amidst the ocean of fire-covered fall foliage. When it comes to tree-peeping, you can do no better than this secluded spot in the middle of Lake Huron. Starting on the coast and working your way inwards, you will see the full range of colors attainable by changing leaves. However, Mackinac can be popular during fall weekends, so for a serene experience, you might want to pass through during the week.
Like this Article? Share it!
