Hello Fall enthusiasts! It’s that time of the year when the air gets a little crisp and the leaves turn all different hues! Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons both for the eyes and also temperature wise. With the breath taking views that come with Autumn, you must plan a road trip to take in the beauty. According to AAA, every year about 28% of Americans plan a trip to see the Fall foliage. North Carolina has breathtaking views and is surrounded by states with incredible scenery, that are just a short drive away. Check out these 5 places you can go to enjoy the Fall foliage:
1. Blue Ridge Parkway. If you are an App State fan, you would know that Boone, NC is one if the most beautiful places during the fall season. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469 mile road that stretches through North Carolina and Virginia. This national road is known for its scenic views and is a wonderful place to take a peaceful drive with family or friends. Not only is the parkway a great drive, but it is also right by Appalachian State University and the lovable King Street. King Street has great restaurants and shops such as the Mast General store which is a Boone classic.
Photo Credit: www.blueridgeparkway.org
2. Biltmore Estate. Another spectacular location in NC that people love all year long, and especially in the Fall, is Asheville. Asheville is home to the famous Biltmore Estate and is full of unique and artistic shops, restaurants, and not to mention breathtaking scenery. The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned house in the United States and is open for tours to the public. This beautiful mansion may be a national treasure, but the spectacular views surrounding the estate takes the spotlight. The Biltmore has many gardens and walking areas that are perfect for displaying the Fall hues.
Photo Credit: www.residencesatbiltmore.com
3. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Bryson, North Carolina is home to the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad that extends 58 miles through the mountain range. Riding the train is the perfect Fall family day trip that will enable family bonding and is full of beautiful sights. The train rides through the valleys and rivers that make up the Great Smoky Mountain Range. The railroad also offers fun seasonal specials including a polar express ride during the holiday season!
Photo Credit: traintraveling.com
4. Skyline Drive. The Skyline drive spans about 105 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains all the way through the Shenandoah National Park. This road is located in Virginia but is only a short drive for a day journey. The road is full of stops where you can pull over and take in the beautiful color and trees surrounding you. With the speed limit being 35 throughout the trip, you are guaranteed to take in all the views as you cruise by. This is the perfect day trip for you and your significant other or the whole family to do on a boring weekend!
Photo Credit: countryviewlodging.com
5. Gatlinburg Space Needle. Gatlinburg, Tennesse is a beautiful place to see all the fall foliage. The space needle is located in outside the Great Smoky Mountains and gives you a 360 view of the nature surrounding it. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is open to public as you can go up and view the beautiful views from 406′ in the air. Also, you can explore the town of Gatlinburg by going to shops and eating at great restaurants. A trip to Gatlinburg is fun and a great escape from home for the day or the weekend!
Photo Credit: www.pinterest.nz
The Fall foliage can come and go right before your eyes, so you have to take in the beautiful color while it lasts. With life a little different during the pandemic, it is important to think of fun socially distant things to do with your family on weekends. North Carolina is full of beautiful views whether it is the mountains in Boone and Asheville, or the ocean in Wilmington and the Outer Banks. A fall day trip to Boone or Ashville is so easy and is something the whole family will enjoy. If you want to make a bigger trip out of it, a weekend away in Virginia and Tennessee is also great during the Autumn weather. Start planning your Fall foliage sight seeing today and share your photos with us on social media @designerzankhna