Top 7 Destinations Trending For Fall Travel, According To New Report

Move over, New England. While the northeast is typically associated with fall travel, several under-the-radar destinations are drawing visitors this autumn, according to Expedia.

In its new Fall Travel Outlook, Expedia analyzed data on searches for accommodations in various places to figure out which destinations in the U.S. are seeing an uptick in interest this fall. It found that travelers are shaking up their usual getaway plans and planning to visit destinations where colorful foliage, pumpkin patches, and crisp air aren’t the only attractions.

Here are the top 7 trending fall destinations for 2024, according to Expedia.

1. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis is one of the top destinations travelers plan to visit this fall. Searches for lodging for fall trips to the city have surged a whopping 120% compared to last year.

So which travelers have Indianapolis in their “Wildest Dreams” for a fall getaway? It’s none other than Taylor Swift fans, who are flocking to the city on Nov. 1, 2, and 3 for the final U.S. dates of the Eras Tour. The city is embracing the invasion of the Swifties with a range of promotions and events, like a friendship bracelet-making workshop at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Eras-themed cider at Ash & Elm, and the “Champagne Problems Package” at The Alexander hotel.

2. Cape May, New Jersey

While summer is high season in Cape May, the charming beach town is quickly becoming a top destination for fall getaways, too. Expedia found that searches for lodging in Cape May are up 60% this fall compared to the same time last year.

With fewer crowds and a relaxed coastal vibe, Cape May in the fall is the ideal travel destination for those looking to experience the season’s beauty by the sea. Plus, there’s plenty of exciting events filling the town’s calendar. Cape May’s Annual Victorian Weekend (Oct. 11-14) draws visitors with a vintage baseball game, historic home tours, and guided architectural tours of the Historic District. Savor multi-course meals at the town’s best restaurants during Cape May Restaurant Weekend (Oct. 31-Nov. 3). For those who can’t resist a good scare during spooky season, Cape May’s haunted history comes alive with paranormal tours at the Cherry House, immersive mystery events at the Emlen Physick Estate, and the ghosts of Cape May trolley tour.

3. Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is having a moment this fall, with searches for lodging up 55% compared to autumn 2023, per Expedia. This charming college town may be best known for its spirited game days at the University of Michigan, but there’s much more on tap this season. Sip the flavors of the season at Dexter Cider Mill, Michigan’s oldest continuously operating cider mill, located about 10 miles northwest of Ann Arbor. Surround yourself with beautiful fall colors on miles of trails at Gallup Park and see why Ann Arbor is nicknamed “Tree Town.” And check out the famous giant pumpkins at Wing Farms.

4. South Lake Tahoe, California

South Lake Tahoe continues to draw tourists in the fall, with lodging searches increasing by 50% compared to last year.

Fall in South Lake Tahoe offers a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Visitors can hike along scenic ridge lines on Mount Tallac, see stunning cascades at Eagle Falls, or take a leisurely bike ride along Lake Tahoe Boulevard. Soak up panoramic views of Lake Tahoe with a ride on the Heavenly Mountain Gondola. Cozy up with a drink near a fire pit at Basecamp Tahoe South or Lakeview Social. Take a hot air balloon ride that launches from the deck of a boat. Or get pampered at Tahoe Forest Baths, one of the only places in the U.S. where you can take an authentic Japanese cedar enzyme detox bath.

5. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay, Wisconsin, is seeing a rise in fall tourism, with lodging searches up 50% compared to last year. It has everything you could want from a classic fall getaway: football, foliage, and festive fun. Cheer on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the NFL’s oldest continually operating stadium, or take a tour of the venue. Take in the stunning fall colors at the Green Bay Botanical Garden or on a bike ride on the Fox River State Trail. There’s also a robust line-up of Oktoberfest events, but if you miss ‘em, you can always sample the local suds on your own through Green Bay’s growing craft beer industry.

6. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is on the radar of travelers seeking a fall getaway. The city has seen a 45% increase in searches for lodging this fall compared to last. The city offers an exciting blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and local charm that make it a perfect autumn destination.

If football is your idea of fall fun, you can feel the energy of the home crowd at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Wander through the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, where fallen leaves in deep shades of orange and red create a stunning fall backdrop for photos at 36 dedicated gardens. See the seasonal beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park from a vintage rail car on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. In between activities, refuel at Cleveland’s buzzy food scene—you won’t want to miss a scoop of a seasonal flavor, like pumpkin spice or caramel apple, at Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream.

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans steps into the spotlight this fall, with lodging searches up 40% from last year. The Big Easy’s spooky side makes it an essential destination to visit this time of year. Dive into the spooky side of NOLA with haunted walking tours through the French Quarter or a spine-chilling visit to the Museum of Death. See the mansions on St. Charles Avenue decked out with Halloween decorations. Celebrate spooky family fun with the animals at Audubon Zoo for the three-day Boo at the Zoo event (Oct. 18-20). And spend the night in a haunted hotel, like the Pontchartrain Hotel or the Andrew Jackson Hotel, if you dare.