Merritt World Vacations understands that Fall is the perfect season for families to make lasting memories together. The crisp air, colorful leaves, and festive atmosphere offer a refreshing change from summer’s heat.
Table of Contents
From pumpkin patches to scenic hikes and charming small towns, Fall brings a wealth of family-friendly destinations and budget-friendly fun. According to many Merritt World Vacations reviews, here are some of the best places for families with children to celebrate the magic of autumn.
Stowe, Vermont – A Classic New England Fall Escape
Few places capture the beauty of Fall quite like Stowe, Vermont. This charming mountain town is surrounded by fiery red, gold, and orange foliage throughout the season. Many Merritt World Vacations reviews suggest enjoying scenic drives along Route 100, visiting local farms for apple picking, and taking a gondola ride up Mount Mansfield for panoramic views of the valley below.
Kids love visiting Percy Farm Corn Maze, where the whole family can get lost in a fun and challenging puzzle. Don’t miss the Stowe Farmers’ Market for affordable local treats and handmade goods. For casual dining, Picasso serves up pizza and pasta that pleases all ages.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee – Smoky Mountain Adventure
On the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers an unbeatable mix of nature, attractions, and Southern charm. The changing leaves transform the park into a vibrant wonderland in the Fall. Merritt World Vacations suggests families can hike easy trails like Laurel Falls or take an incredibly stunning scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Downtown Gatlinburg is full of affordable fun. Kids will love the aquarium, mini-golf, and candy shops. The Gatlinburg SkyLift offers sweeping views of the fall foliage, and Ober Mountain hosts a family-friendly fall festival with games, rides, and live music. Stop for lunch or dinner at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, a favorite for hearty, homestyle meals.
Door County, Wisconsin – Lakeside Autumn Fun
Door County, located on a scenic peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is an underrated fall destination perfect for families. This peaceful getaway features colorful shoreline drives, quaint towns, and many outdoor activities.
Families can explore pumpkin patches, enjoy hayrides, and visit hands-on nature centers like the Ridges Sanctuary. According to many Merritt World Vacations reviews, Fall is prime time for apple picking in local orchards, and many offer fresh cider and apple donuts that kids adore. Wild Tomato Pizza is a great casual dining option in Fish Creek with locally sourced ingredients and kid-approved flavors.
Estes Park, Colorado – Rocky Mountain Vibes
For a fall family trip filled with mountain magic, Estes Park delivers. It is known by many to be the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. It offers incredible fall foliage, elk sightings, and endless outdoor fun. In autumn, elk gather in the valleys and can be seen from the town’s safety or along the park’s scenic roads.
Families can hike Bear Lake Trail or drive on Trail Ridge Road before it closes for winter. Kids can explore the Estes Park Aerial Tramway in town or stop by the Fun City amusement center with go-karts and slides. Dining is easy at places like Poppy’s Pizza & Grill, which offers adult and kid-friendly dishes.
Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge Beauty and Culture
Asheville is a vibrant city surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Fall brings an explosion of color to the surrounding hills, and families can enjoy it all along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Leaf-peeping is a favorite activity, but according to many Merritt World Vacations reviews, Asheville offers interactive museums, historic sites, and farm visits perfect for kids.
The Western North Carolina Nature Center is a highlight, home to animals native to the region, including otters, black bears, and red wolves. The Biltmore Estate offers family-friendly tours and a harvest-themed garden area. Tupelo Honey Café serves Southern comfort food in a warm and welcoming dining environment.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania – Fall in Amish Country
Lancaster blends rolling farmland, historic charm, and autumn festivities for a peaceful and fun family getaway. Fall is harvest season in Amish country, and families can enjoy corn mazes, buggy rides, and fresh-baked pies.
Visit Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, which has one of the country’s best corn mazes and countless activities for kids like petting zoos, pig races, and pumpkin picking. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is another kid’s favorite, offering the chance to climb aboard vintage trains. After a full day of fun, enjoy a hearty meal at Miller’s Smorgasbord, where everyone can find something they love.
Make This Fall the Most Memorable Yet With Merritt World Vacations
Traveling in the Fall doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Across the country, countless destinations celebrate the season with kid-friendly charm, beautiful scenery, and budget-conscious fun. Whether you want to hike among golden leaves, get lost in a corn maze, or enjoy farm-fresh treats, Fall is the ideal time to connect as a family and explore something new.
Merritt World Vacations suggests these destinations as they offer natural beauty, hands-on activities, and delicious local eats that kids and adults alike will love. This season, skip the screens, grab a sweater, and hit the road—your perfect family fall adventure is waiting with Merritt World Vacations.
Follow us on Facebook.