Watching the leaves change It was a passive experience to watch the vibrant greens of summer transform into the garnets and golds of autumn. You’re lucky if you live somewhere where the leaves change. If not, then the change in nature was simply not part of your seasonal routine.
In recent years, leaf peeping, a favorite fall activity for many, has been embraced by those who love the outdoors, want to take the perfect autumn photo, or are interested in immersing themselves in all the traditions of the season. Leaf peeping is a popular fall activity. 2024 study The study revealed that 65 per cent of Americans would like to visit a destination in a particular season.
While there are countless scenic spots to visit this fall—Travel + Leisure Already, the best spots—a few destinations stand out. Priceline Exclusive data shared with Travel + Leisure on the top 10 scenic destinations for fall 2025, based on hotel search data from U.S. travelers for dates between Oct. 10 – Oct. 24 this year—right in the heart of peak leaf seasons.
Last year’s top destination was Bucks County, Pennsylvania. For 2025, the most popular fall destination remains on the East Coast—but this time it’s the iconic Hudson Valley.
The Hudson Valley, located just north of New York City is home to charming villages like CatskillsBeacon, Hudson and Woodstock Rhinebeck. The region is over 7,000 square kilometers and features breathtaking mountain ranges, scenic driving, and plenty of autumn-inspired activities.
Wander through 7,000 glowing jack o’lanterns? Hudson Valley is the place to be. Want to pick apples in orchards that are vast? There are many spots. Want to visit antique shops or boutiques? Nearly all shops look like they came straight out of a Hallmark film. You can enjoy a luxury wellness retreat, surrounded by autumn colors, while hiking through fiery foliage or sipping wine in a hilltop vineyard. Hudson Valley All that is possible.
You can find leaf peeping in the following places:
- Harriman State Park
- Hudson Highland State Park Preserve
- New York State Route 52 known for its lookouts and scenic drives
- Hudson River Skywalk and Walkway Over the Hudson both offer stunning views from above, as well immersive experiences.
Looking for a place to sleep? T+L editors have named their favorite accommodations in the regionYou can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including camping sites and luxury hotels.
Are you looking for more travel ideas? Priceline’s complete list of top 10 scenic arfeas to go leaf peeping by 2025 is below:
- Hudson Valley, New York
- Boulder, Colorado
- Snoqualmie Valley (Washington)
- Bucks County, Pennsylvania
- Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
- Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
- French Lick West Baden, Indiana
- North Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
- Smugglers’ Notch Pass, Vermont
- The Berkshires in Massachusetts
