5 US destinations where fall colors shine—and prices stay low
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Fall is almost here, bringing cooler air and the brilliant colors of red, orange, and gold that travelers wait all year to see.
For many, the season is best enjoyed through leaf-peeping getaways, but costs can sometimes keep people from booking a trip.
Fortunately, several destinations in the US are both breathtaking and surprisingly affordable. According to Dollar Flight Club, round-trip fares to these top fall foliage spots can be found for under $300 between September 17 and October 10.
1. Asheville, North Carolina: Blue Ridge Beauty on a Budget
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a popular fall destination thanks to its long stretches of scenic highways and mountain views. The average airfare comes in at just $170, which is about 10% lower than last year.
Visitors can enjoy drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, considered one of the best routes for fall colors in the country. Affordable food and lodging options make it an accessible escape for travelers on a budget.

2. Boston: Historic Charm and Colorful Parks
Boston’s combination of historic neighborhoods, waterfront walks, and sprawling parks makes it a great city to see fall unfold. Average round-trip airfare is about $260, an 8% decrease from last year, making it easier to book flights.
Leaf-peepers will find vibrant colors across Boston Common, the Public Garden, and the Charles River Esplanade. The city also offers a mix of cultural attractions and dining that pair well with a fall weekend getaway.
Also read: Don’t book your next trip until you see these 5 affordable coastal towns everyone’s raving about
3. Burlington, Vermont: Lakeside Views and Vibrant Trees
With airfare averaging $278, down 9% from last year, Burlington is another excellent fall foliage destination. The city’s location along Lake Champlain provides stunning lakeside reflections of autumn leaves.
Visitors can also explore local breweries, farmers markets, and bike paths that wind through colorful scenery. Its small-town charm and walkable downtown make it especially inviting for travelers seeking a slower pace.
4. Adirondack Mountains, New York: Mountain Escapes With Fiery Foliage
At an average airfare of $290, the Adirondacks provide access to thousands of miles of hiking trails and expansive mountain vistas. Flights are about 9% cheaper than last year, making the area more appealing to travelers hoping to save.
The region is known for dramatic views over lakes and valleys that explode with color during peak season. For those who enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing or camping, the Adirondacks offer an affordable and scenic retreat.
Also read: Don’t book your next flight until you read these senior travel must-knows
5. Stowe, Vermont: Quintessential New England Fall Town
Stowe is one of the most iconic destinations for experiencing New England fall, with average airfare around $298, down 8% from last year. Its small-town atmosphere is enhanced by covered bridges, historic inns, and rolling hills filled with autumn hues.
Visitors can enjoy a gondola ride up Mount Mansfield or walk through the village’s picturesque downtown. With flights under $300, Stowe delivers a classic fall experience without breaking the bank.
Read next: Planning your next getaway? Check these 18 senior travel discounts before you book!
Which of these destinations would you love to visit this fall, or do you have another favorite spot for leaf-peeping? Share your recommendations in the comments so other travelers can add them to their list.
For many, the season is best enjoyed through leaf-peeping getaways, but costs can sometimes keep people from booking a trip.
Fortunately, several destinations in the US are both breathtaking and surprisingly affordable. According to Dollar Flight Club, round-trip fares to these top fall foliage spots can be found for under $300 between September 17 and October 10.
1. Asheville, North Carolina: Blue Ridge Beauty on a Budget
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a popular fall destination thanks to its long stretches of scenic highways and mountain views. The average airfare comes in at just $170, which is about 10% lower than last year.
Visitors can enjoy drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, considered one of the best routes for fall colors in the country. Affordable food and lodging options make it an accessible escape for travelers on a budget.

5 US destinations where fall colors shine—and prices stay low. Image source: Ricardo Gomez Angel / Unsplash
2. Boston: Historic Charm and Colorful Parks
Boston’s combination of historic neighborhoods, waterfront walks, and sprawling parks makes it a great city to see fall unfold. Average round-trip airfare is about $260, an 8% decrease from last year, making it easier to book flights.
Leaf-peepers will find vibrant colors across Boston Common, the Public Garden, and the Charles River Esplanade. The city also offers a mix of cultural attractions and dining that pair well with a fall weekend getaway.
Also read: Don’t book your next trip until you see these 5 affordable coastal towns everyone’s raving about
3. Burlington, Vermont: Lakeside Views and Vibrant Trees
With airfare averaging $278, down 9% from last year, Burlington is another excellent fall foliage destination. The city’s location along Lake Champlain provides stunning lakeside reflections of autumn leaves.
Visitors can also explore local breweries, farmers markets, and bike paths that wind through colorful scenery. Its small-town charm and walkable downtown make it especially inviting for travelers seeking a slower pace.
4. Adirondack Mountains, New York: Mountain Escapes With Fiery Foliage
At an average airfare of $290, the Adirondacks provide access to thousands of miles of hiking trails and expansive mountain vistas. Flights are about 9% cheaper than last year, making the area more appealing to travelers hoping to save.
The region is known for dramatic views over lakes and valleys that explode with color during peak season. For those who enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing or camping, the Adirondacks offer an affordable and scenic retreat.
Also read: Don’t book your next flight until you read these senior travel must-knows
5. Stowe, Vermont: Quintessential New England Fall Town
Stowe is one of the most iconic destinations for experiencing New England fall, with average airfare around $298, down 8% from last year. Its small-town atmosphere is enhanced by covered bridges, historic inns, and rolling hills filled with autumn hues.
Visitors can enjoy a gondola ride up Mount Mansfield or walk through the village’s picturesque downtown. With flights under $300, Stowe delivers a classic fall experience without breaking the bank.
Read next: Planning your next getaway? Check these 18 senior travel discounts before you book!
Key Takeaways
- Fall foliage trips don’t have to be expensive, as flights to top destinations are available under $300.
- Asheville, Boston, Burlington, the Adirondacks, and Stowe all offer peak-season scenery at lower airfare than last year.
- These places combine affordability with natural beauty, cultural attractions, and seasonal charm.
- Planning now can help travelers take advantage of deals while ensuring they enjoy fall’s short but spectacular season.