Skip New England Leaves for these Southern Cities
Fall is a popular time to head north of the Mason Dixon to enjoy the fall foliage and the cooler weather. We get it. Not much beats throwing on a sweatshirt, lighting up a campfire and admiring the fall colors. That is… unless you consider all the amazing places you could enjoy right here in the South instead!
If you’re looking for leaves, you have to add Desoto Falls, Alabama, to your list. Yes, the waterfall is impressive year round. The 104-foot drop is gorgeous, especially when the water levels are high, but when you bank that waterfall with the golds and reds of the fall? Breathtaking. Seriously, make the trip.
When it comes to looking for leaves, we also put Table Rock State Park in South Carolina on our short list. Table Rock’s winding roads, lakes and hiking trails also make this park a great place to spend a few days. This one also has waterfalls… we might have a theme going. While you’re in South Carolina, head over the lowcountry – the inspiration for our Lowcountry Southern Pimento Cheese Dip and Lowcountry Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Dip – to see the cordgrass. It might not be as striking as those fall leaves, but y’all, those golden waves are absolutely worth the trip.
We know not everyone is up for hiking or wandering for waterfalls, so if you’re more the driving type, we have two very different drives on our list – the Pig Trail in Arkansas and the Pineywoods Autumn Trail in Texas. The Pig Trail is only about 20 miles long, but it’s so full of twists and turns that the speed limit is often 5mp. The Pineywoods Autumn Trail is 145 miles long and incredibly straight. Both have plenty of scenic stops and bunches of beautiful foliage.
Driving a minivan instead of a motorcycle? We love kids, but we also know pretty sights aren’t always on their short list. If you’re looking for something more kid friendly, we give you Chattanooga (TN), Blue Ridge (GA) and Williamsburg (VA).
Aquariums, boat rides, the Walnut Bridge, Rock City, Ruby Falls… Chattanooga is packed with stuff to do, especially for kids who are a bit particular. This is definitely the busiest place on this list, but it’s super fun.
Blue Ridge, Georgia, makes this part of our list for two things – trains and apples. That’s right, Georgia ain’t all about peaches! If you’re in the Chattahoochee Forest, stop by Mercier Orchards for apple picking (you have to try the Stayman Winesap) and check their market for apple butter, jams and fresh baked goods. While you’re in the area, check out the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Both are great for families.
Finally, if you’re heading to Williamsburg, start at Colonial Williamsburg. This historic town comes complete with period costumes, a living history museum and TONS of demonstrations. I know this might not sound like a blast, but we can easily spend all day there. If your kids love it, you can always swing by Jamestown and Yorktown too.
We hope you’re able to kick off your shoes (after your hike, drive or day out) to enjoy your time together and make the most of your fall. The season always goes to quick… unless you have to rake the leaves!
