While it’s still quite hot in the Midwest, autumn is slowly making its presence known throughout the country. Some of us love planning leaf-peeping road trips—and yes, there’s a website just for that—but you might not be down for a multi-day adventure. You might instead be looking for something a little out of the box, a less-visited site to see leaves changing.
With that in mind, here are 5 unusual places in the U.S. to see the leaves change this fall.
5 Places in the U.S. to See Leaves Changing
St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri
The last time I visited my childhood stomping grounds of Ste. Genevieve, I made a quick stop through St. Louis to say hello to the family. I also had time to walk through the St. Louis Art Museum and I’m so glad I did! The sprawling landscape of Art Hill is dotted with trees that looked as though they were set ablaze. Seeing the stunning reflection in the Great Basin was picturesque.
Not to mention, the museum itself is free. Take a tour while you’re leaf-peeping.
Boston Public Gardens, Massachusetts
A venerable city park since 1837, Boston’s Public Gardens have a variety of ways to view the pretty fall foliage. Walk the Freedom trail, sail through on a Swan Boat and follow the statues, specifically, the Make Way for Ducklings statues.
Also free to stroll through, I recommend visiting in October.
Whitaker Point, Arkansas
One of my favorite trails to hike in the fall, Whitaker Point is a little off the map and not quite as well-established as other parks in Arkansas. There’s little in the way of trail-mapping and you may lose your connection (bring a paper map). But the unspoiled splendor of Whitaker Point really charms once the leaves turn. Worth the hike, even when you’re not 100% sure you’ve arrived until, well, there it is.
Alley Spring & Mill, Missouri
I discovered this hidden gem during an Ozark Scenic Riverways road trip a couple years ago. The once-busy mill is now a tourist site, along with the schoolhouse and remnants of a former bustling town. The vibrant red hues of the mill contrasting against the vivid blue river and intense yellow leaves makes this destination postcard-worthy.
New Orleans City Park, Louisiana
This expansive greenspace is worth a full day of exploration. Calling it a park seems like an understatement. You can visit the Children’s Museum, walk through the botanical gardens, spend an afternoon golfing, grab a beignet at Cafe du Monde and enjoy the New Orleans Art Museum. I’m only scratching the surface, this park is massive!
Whether you’re road tripping or staying put, I hope you enjoy these 5 unique spots to see leaves changing.
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Safe travels!
-Maggie
