Top 5 Favorite Fall Destinations
As we begin to feel the chill in the air and the leaves start to change color, I am ready to pack away my flip flops and bathing suit, grab a hoodie, and head out for new adventure. For us, fall travel is limited to weekend or day trips only. Luckily we live in Northern NJ and there is no shortage of fall fun within driving distance to our home.
Lancaster County, PA
We have been visiting Lancaster and the surrounding area for years, but it was not until recently that it became a must-do for our fall travels. We enjoy browsing the Amish Markets and visiting the local farms, but our primary reason to visit is to stock up on outdoor fall decor. Their pumpkins and gourds are absolutely gorgeous and the prices are unmatched.
For the past few years, we have gone to Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop specifically for their stackable pumpkins. This year they ranged in price from $2.98-$5.98 and they are my favorite fall decor. They also have hand carved wooden cut outs of pumpkins, as well as turkeys and snowmen for the upcoming holidays. While you are there, be sure to grab a pack or two of their Amish Dinner Rolls and a few pretzels from the for truck outside.
We also like to visit Kauffman Orchards Market in Bird-in-Hand for large, carving pumpkins. If you’re lucky, you can catch them making cider donuts right out front and you can enjoy them warm. If you are a baker, be sure to head inside for quality bulk products at great prices. I always pickup a bag of Dutch Process Cocoa Powder each time I am there.
Once you have acquired all of the fall decor, stop by Li’l Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm to feed the ponies and go for a buggy ride. Or swing by Lapp Valley Farm to let the littles run around a bit and pet the cows. Before you head home, be sure to stop at their drive up window to stock up on milk, eggs and some ice cream for the road.
Lake George, NY
Lake George will always hold a special place in my heart. My grandparents had a house on the lake when I was growing up. While we visited the Queen of American Lakes each summer, I never had the pleasure of visiting the area in the off season until more recently. In September 2020 we were looking for a COVID friendly getaway, as our youngest had recently been released from the NICU and was still vulnerable after having open heart surgery. I found a cabin at Lake George Escape Campground and we had the perfect fall getaway.
Driving Prospect Mountain and hiking up to the top is a must do any time of year. Since COVID, they have not run their shuttle to the top, so you have the option to hike the trail from the parking lot, or you are able to walk up the road. The paved road is stroller friendly, but hang onto that stroller on the way down. The auto road provides several pull offs to enjoy views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In the fall you will be treated to mountains splashed with fall colors and a stunning view of the south end of Lake George. At the top, there are several rock formations for littler kids to safely climb, as well as some information about the historic significance of Prospect Mountain. There are also picnic tables available, should you choose to pack a lunch.
If you have a Six Flags pass, I highly recommend Fright Fest at Six Flags Great Escape. They have plenty of family friendly fun during the day, as well as trick or treating for the littles. You can also buy a single day ticket, but I refuse to pay single day admission to any theme park, so we only visit when we have an active Six Flags membership.
If you are up for a little more driving, head over to Vermont for the day for leaf peeping, breweries, maple everything, and be sure to stop in to Penny Cluse in Burlington for their Biscuits and Herb Gravy. You can thank me later.
Sandy Hook, NJ (Gateway National Recreation Area)
The Jersey Shore in the fall is absolute perfection. If you are looking for changing leaves and pumpkin picking, head north-west. If you enjoy beautiful beaches to yourself, bike rides along the coast, and a short ride to amazing dining options, head down the shore.
There is no entrance fee at Gateway National Recreation Area and the parking fees at Sandy Hook are waived from Labor Day through Memorial Day. Sandy Hook boasts nearly 9 miles of bike trails that take you along the coast, through wooded areas, and around Fort Hancock. There are plenty of spots to stop and explore the beach, the bay, and historic buildings. The trail is perfect for little ones just learning how to ride and wide enough if you are towing a child carrier. Pack a picnic lunch and some sand toys and I promise your kids will have a full day of fun. Head to the northern end of the park for the surreal experience of having a gorgeous beach to yourself, while overlooking the busy streets of New York City.
We like to head south out of Sandy Hook before heading home. We drive along the coast, enjoy the views, and stop in Asbury Park or Long Branch for dinner or ice cream. If you have the time, head down to Point Pleasant Beach for some boardwalk fun, lobster rolls at Point Lobster, and ice cream at Hoffmans.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area/Pocono Mountains, PA
If you are looking to spend the weekend, book a campsite at Worthing State Park. Check out the map before booking your site, and choose one of the sites along the river. From there you will enjoy beautiful views of the Delaware River while relaxing in front of your campfire. During the day, head across the river to Dingmans Falls. This out and back trail is less than a mile and is all boardwalk. You can easily navigate a stroller or wheelchair on this trail. Once you reach the third set of falls on the trail, Dingmans Falls, you have the option to climb the stairs to the top, or turnaround and go back the way you came. The stairs are steep, but there are plenty of places to rest and enjoy the views as you climb.
We always enjoy a stop at the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm. This is a small, roadside attraction that features many rescue animals. You have the opportunity to purchase food trays to feed the lemurs, pigs, goats, raccoons, bear and lizards. It takes about 30-45 minutes to see the entire facility, but if you have any animal loving kids, it’s a great stop. Although they take credit cards, cash is preferred.
Additional outdoor options for beautiful vistas and outdoor adventure include Shawnee Mountain, Big Pocono Mountain State Park, and Bushkill Falls. Be sure to check the Shawnee website, as they often host festivals at the base of the mountain throughout the fall season.
If someone in your family has a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by American Candle. They have a room that features 100’s of barrels of old fashioned candy that can be purchased by the pound.
Bucks County, PA
Just a little further south down the Delaware River is beautiful Bucks County, PA. Fall weekends mean the streets of New Hope will be bustling. Stop into The Ferry Market for lunch, which has a dozen different food vendors selling everything from vegan meals to desserts. Browse the vintage shops, walk the bridge across the Delaware River or take in a show at The Bucks County Playhouse. If your party includes any train enthusiasts, be sure to pre-book your tickets for the New Hope Railroad.
During the fall season nearby Peddler’s Village hosts a variety of special events, and will be decorated with over 100 scarecrows. If the weather isn’t cooperating and your littles need to burn off some enegery, head over to Giggleberry Fair. They have an indoor carousel, several pretend play areas and arcade games. If the weather is nice, take a short drive to Kids Castle in nearby Doylestown. It is one of the best playgrounds we have been to.
If you are able to make it to the area early on Saturday morning, plan a stop at Rice’s Market. Most vendors are selling out and/or packing up after noon, so the mornings are always best. Whether you are looking for antiques, Amish butter, handbags, holiday decor, or fresh baked bread, there is something here for everyone.
What are your favorite fall travel destinations? Comment below or reach out on social media to let us know where we should head next.
