According to a new study from Vacasa, 60 percent of Americans plan fall travel with quick weekend getaways most popular. Nearly half of travelers are still setting up getaway plans and are in the process of booking trips. To help travelers decide where to go, here’s a round-up of stunning fall escapes:
From Chicago to Lake Forest, Illinois
Take a short road trip or train ride to the quaint lakeside town of Lake Forest, just 40 minutes north of Chicago. Stay at the award-winning, English-inspired Deer Path Inn and feel like you’ve been transported to the Cotswolds. The Inn offers all the luxury and refinement you might find at a posh London hotel, including traditional afternoon tea service. Throughout the fall, go leaf peeping along the shores of Lake Michigan by booking the Picnic in the Park offer. Walk through the 39-acre Grant Park and Chicago Botanic Garden before heading back to the inn to cozy up in the Hearth Room while sipping delicious cocktails.
Escape from Louisville to Lexington, Kentucky
Offering an underrated and affordable Southern getaway, Lexington is well-known for its equine culture and bourbon. A weekend trip to the Horse Capital of the World allows travelers to witness the time-honored tradition of horse racing set against some of the country’s most stunning fall colors. Equestrian fans can enjoy crisp fall air atop a steed borrowed just for the occasion, with horseback riding excursions offered at Kentucky Horse Park and The Kentucky Castle. Adventure enthusiasts can hike Kentucky River Palisades Trail, kayak along the river or soar over natural wonders at Boone Creek Outdoors’ Zipline Canopy Tours. Weekenders should book a stay at Central Kentucky’s first boutique hotel, The Manchester, featuring a rooftop bar, perfect for soaking up some Kentucky sunsets. Art fans, check out 21c Museum Hotel Lexington, an 88-room boutique hotel full of contemporary art.
Escape from Dallas to Fort Worth, Texas
Less than an hour drive outside one of Texas’ largest cities sits fast-growing Fort Worth, offering the perfect fall getaway with rich Western heritage, world-class culture and an excellent hotel scene. For entertainment, head to the Stockyards District, a historic neighborhood preserving the city’s Western culture with its legendary cattle drive reenactment with real cowboys. This October, the Stockyards host Red Steagall Cowboy Gatherings, the 32nd anniversary. From rodeos at Cowtown Coliseum to Billy Bob’s Texas, the largest honkytonk in the world is filled with exciting Western entertainment.
Atlanta to West Midtown, Georgia
Once an industrial haven, Atlanta’s Westside has become a mecca for artists, young professionals and curious travelers, with 19th-century buildings and factories converted into modern lofts and a mix of galleries, retailers, entertainment venues, office spaces and some of the best emerging restaurants. Giving visitors a place to dine, play and stay, Bellyard Hotel offers a restaurant bar and lounge, encouraging guests to socialize while enjoying delicious food and drinks. The rooftop bar features some of the best views of Midtown Atlanta’s skyline.
Nashville for Memphis, Tennessee
For music history, comfort food and fewer crowds, head to Nashville’s western neighbor this fall. Recently, Memphis’ Overton Square transformed into an artistic entertainment hub anchored by five live-performance theaters, one of which Elvis used to rent out for private screenings with his friends. The square is also home to a new boutique hotel, The Memphian. The property takes visitors to the glamour of the early 20th century with cheetah print chairs, pop art prints, extravagant neon chandeliers, a lobby piano and artwork sourced from local artists or vintage shops.
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