Six US Cities You Don’t Want To Miss During Fall 2016

As we are about to enter the season we have come to know through colorful leaves, hearty dishes, and memorable travel destinations, here is a list of six U.S. cities you shouldn’t miss this fall.

Seattle, WA / Portland, OR

Two cities that both embody the charm of the Pacific Northwest. Fall proves to be a good time to visit them both, as temperatures in both cities average highs in the 60s and lows in the mid-40s — perfect fall weather. Just make sure you pack proper attire, as it can be rainy, yet the seasonal offerings in both cities can serve to whet your appetite. Travel + Leisure notes that you can find fresh salmon, squash, and heirloom tomatoes in Portland when the leaves start to fall. Both cities boast plentiful hiking opportunities, and fall colors enhance the experience even more. You can grab tickets for the BoltBus for the three-hour trip between Seattle and Portland for anywhere between $15 and $18.

One of the former rust belt cities continuously on the upswing, Detroit has every right to boast about its seasonal fall “cider mills,” where the Detroit News reports that you can grab fresh apple cider, spice donuts, pies, and other baked goods. Activities even include petting zoos at some locations. Cider mills represent the pride of Michigan. The way they see it, what better way to soak in the brisk fall air and changing season with a hot drink and sweet treat? You can even grab a hot dog or kielbasa at Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill if you’re feeling hungry.

Experience Detroit also boasts of the city’s fall “color tour,” which runs from late September through late October. As with all of the cities listed, the changing leaves are the most prominent sign of the changing season. While they report that much of the beautiful scenery can be found in northern Michigan, the regional parks in and around Detroit see their fair share of beautiful natural colors as well.

Nashville, TN

Travel + Leisure reports that farm-to-table cuisine and two music festivals, the Independent Music Festival and the Americana Festival, make Nashville one of the worthwhile cities to visit in the fall. Music City also boasts the international Nashville Whiskey Festival, where you can sample the worldwide heritage of whiskey, as well as the Taste of Nashville, a celebration of Nashville’s local cuisine, including hot chicken, which is a fall staple.

One of the most densely populated cities in the U.S. and often mistaken for the nation’s capital, New York City has numerous draws in the fall. The many colors in Central Park (Travel + Leisure cites the meadow by Belvedere Castle as a notable sight, the fallen red leaves from the surrounding black tupelo trees dazzling onlookers) and charm of the street vendors and their edible wares make New York an enchanting place to visit in the fall. It’s one of the few cities where you can let the incoming season relax you while still being involved in the hustle and bustle.

While some attractions and edible delights are available year-round (there’s always room for a black-and-white cookie), to enjoy them in the crisp fall weather will make your experience in the Big Apple (Foursquare has compiled a list of the best caramel apples New York has to offer) that much more enjoyable. The city’s many observation decks provide an excellent vantage point on the bustling metropolis as well.

Known for its foggy and chilly summers, San Francisco hides a secret: Fall has proven to provide sun and warm temperatures. Travel + Leisure talks up its Ghiradelli Chocolate Festival and also informs you to plan carefully during the fall, as conferences in the city peak during this season. In addition, the wine harvest parties and seasonal produce can be enjoyed in the fall. After all, it’s no wonder that this bayside town is one of California’s most frequented fall cities.

Wherever you may decide to travel this fall, know that the U.S. holds many cities that can make this coming season highly memorable for you and anyone who decides to join in the festivities.

[Photo by iStock]