If the fall season has you clamoring for an impromptu road trip or spontaneous getaway, you’re not alone. Something about this magical time of year stirs the wanderlust in us all. Whether you’re looking for a city break centered on spooky lore or have a burning need to see fiery fall foliage, here are some ideas for the best last-minute fall trips.
Edinburgh, Scotland
As one of the most haunted cities in Europe, Edinburgh might just be the perfect last-minute spooky getaway. It's not difficult to imagine ghosts and ghouls lurking around every corner, especially in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. The city is often referred to as “Old Reekie” by locals, this Gaelic phrase translates to “Old Smoky,” an homage to the mist that frequents the Scottish capital. If you’re on the hunt for hair-raising experiences, you’ve come to the right place. Explore the Edinburgh Dungeon or Underground Vaults, go on a Ghost Tour, or attend the annual Samhuinn Fire Festival, a celebration of the ancient Gaelic celebration of autumn. If you’re not interested in ghoulish experiences, climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city, its sprawling gardens, and the fall foliage decorating the landscape.
Brevard, North Carolina
While Asheville is busy and bustling with leaf peepers and autumn adoration, the quaint and quiet town of Brevard is an idyllic area to sneak away this October. Only 40 minutes south of Asheville, close enough to pop in to a few breweries if the mood strikes, Brevard is at the center of fall in the Appalachian Mountains. Tucked near the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway – one of the most scenic highways in the country, especially come fall – Brevard is just a stone's throw from the best of North Carolina’s mountains from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Lake Toxaway or even the Biltmore itself. Take to the nearby hiking trails, like the iconic Looking Glass Rock, or one of 250 waterfalls, for picture-perfect panoramas of the changing fall foliage. With so much pristine wilderness and unique experiences nearby, it’s a wonder why Brevard’s irresistible charm and equally unique white squirrels aren’t more popular.
Prince Edward Island
As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island is a wonderland of natural splendor. Shortened to PEI by locals and travelers alike, the island is connected to the mainland by the 8-mile-long Confederation Bridge — or you can opt for a scenic ferry from Caribou, Nova Scotia. The dramatic, rocky coastline is speckled with 63 lighthouses, whose beacons you’ll most likely see under cover of night. Spend your autumnal getaway following the Island Culinary Trail in search of fresh seafood or take a drive through the heart of the island, passing by the Green Gables farm near the town of Cornwall. A new long distance trail was recently revealed that circumnavigates the entirety of PEI but you can also enjoy day hikes and idyllic bike rides along the Confederation Trail which crisscrosses the island's marshes, pine forests, and grassy knolls.
Saona Island, Dominican Republic
If the cooler temperatures already have you craving the heat of summer, a last-minute trip to the DR might be just what the doctor ordered. Fall is hurricane season for the Caribbean and while there’s a risk of inclement weather, planning something last-minute may work out in your favor and allow you to follow the weather patterns. This island country’s pristine beaches and luxury resorts empty out at this time of year — giving those who do risk the storms a chance to experience the tropics without the crowds. Located off the southern coast of the main island, Isla Saona is one of the most stunning strips of sand in the Caribbean. You might recognize its pearly white sand, turquoise lagoon, and swaying palms from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. It also happens to be a vital turtle nesting area and part of the Cotubanamá National Park. The only inhabited portion of the island is the pipsqueak town of Mano Juan and while accommodation is basic, the desert island vibes are worth the grit.
The Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota
Imagine vast herds of buffalo, rumbling across the highway as you drive through undulating terrain painted a rainbow of autumnal colors. This is just one of the incredible sights you’ll see on a trip to South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands in the fall. An area covering millions of acres in Western South Dakota, this collection of both national parks and national forests becomes an autumn haven come September. The iconic Mount Rushmore is a sight to behold, wreathed in colorful leaves while fall events like the annual Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Custer State Park Buffalo Round Trip are fun activities to plan a trip around.
