After the summer rush of tourism is over, incredible autumn travel opportunities come with the change of seasons and the brilliant colors that surround lakes and rivers. Flights and accommodation options come down in price as the official “shoulder season” begins, making it the perfect time to book that trip to see the fall colors and relax for a long weekend or use up your vacation time that will expire at the end of the year. "Leaf-peeping" is the term used by some travelers who plan fall trips to see the changing colors, and it's becoming increasingly popular as people seek outdoor activities and experiences.

While it can be easy to see the fall foliage change in your own town, there are many destinations across the northern hemisphere that are worth traveling to during autumn. Here are some of the best in case you need some extra travel inspiration.

best fall foliage destinations

See the Changing colors in Maine

It’s no secret that Maine is a favorite for travelers looking to enjoy time on a boat and to see the fall colors on the east coast. Maine is considered one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in the world. The state attracts many tourists and has a wide variety of hotels to stay in as well as campsites and things to do while you're here. It's a great weekend trip to escape busier cities, opting to relax in a sleepier seaside town. To see the fall colors in Maine, rent a boat or book a boat tour to get out on the water. Sailing tours and sightseeing by boat are favorite things to do, for tourists and locals alike. Admire the changing leaves in the stunning seaside towns of Maine like Denmark, Rockland, Portland, from the perspective of the water with a boat rental.

Upstate New York Fall Boat Cruises

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While Central Park in New York City certainly offers some pretty views and hues in the fall season, heading upstate when you’re in New York is the best for stunning autumn colors. There are tons of places in Upstate New York to rent a boat, you'll have a hard time choosing a destination. Check out Lake George boat rentals, Skaneateles boat rentals, Rochester boat rentals, New York fishing trips, and more.

No matter your destination in Upstate New York, you'll find wonderful activities to enjoy on a boat on the water, and lots of gorgeous fall foliage to accompany it.

Fall Foliage in Wisconsin

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Autumn in Wisconsin is truly a sight to behold. Visitors can take a boat tour on one of the many lakes and enjoy the beautiful landscape of fall colors lining the shores. Jet ski rentals, kayak rentals, and canoes are great options for admiring the changing colors from the water. Check out boat rentals on Lake Michigan, Lake Winnebago, and Chain O’Lakes to get started. If you’re looking for a memorable fall activity, a boat ride in Wisconsin is the perfect option for family and friends!

Quebec & Eastern Canada Fall Travel

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You don’t have to stay stateside to enjoy the fall colors - cross the border and head north into Canada, where the colors are stunning all across the east coast. Rent a boat in Montreal to cruise the St. Lawrence River, or book a boat tour in Nova Scotia for sightseeing and admiring the fall colors. There are endless opportunities to enjoy leaf-peeping while traveling around the best destinations on the east coast of Canada.


West Coast Fall Foliage

Lake Tahoe Boat Tours

This gem of California is a fantastic spot to enjoy the fall colors. The weather here in autumn is mild, so you'll be able to enjoy the sunshine well into October. Lake Tahoe boat rentals are perfect for enjoying a day of cruising, relaxing with friends and family on board. Boating is the best way to enjoy the change of seasons, and admire the changing colors around Lake Tahoe.

lake tahoe foliage

Colorado Boat Tours

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From Denver to Durango, there are lots of top-notch boating opportunities in Colorado, and autumn is a fantastic time to go. Rent a boat in Colorado and admire the stunning scenery while cruising on a lake or river. Colorado is perfect for outdoor activities like kayak rentals, fishing trips, and pontoon rentals. During the autumn season, a vacation in Colorado will be unforgettable, and it's a great destination with things to do for kids. See the changing leaves light up the mountainside, and enjoy the crisp autumn air in Colorado. It’s a great time for fall camping in addition to boating - check out our rentals in your favorite nature spots.

Canyon Lake Fall Cruises

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Tucked away in Texas Hill Country, Canyon Lake is a beautiful fall boating destination. The weather in Texas starts to cool off a bit during fall, making it the perfect time to get out on the water and admire the gorgeous scenery surrounding the lake. Canyon Lake is a great spot for outdoor activities like pontoon rentals, fishing trips, and boat tours. Witness the autumn colors from the water during a cruise around Canyon Lake!

British Columbia Boat Tours and Cruises

British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest is an excellent spot to enjoy the outdoors and the changing colors. Book a trip to this beautiful region and discover great boat rental and boat tour opportunities in many cities. Rent a boat in Kelowna or enjoy Vancouver boat rentals for top-notch sightseeing opportunities. This area is excellent for whale watching and has ample things to do for kids - perfect for parents traveling on vacation with their children.  

Europe Boat Cruises and Tours for Autumn Travel

Prague Boat Rentals and Tours

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Prague is a picturesque city, and some of the best places to see in Prague can be enjoyed on a boat tour. Cruise down the Vltava river on a canal boat, rent a yacht in Prague with a captain or paddle yourself on a kayak tour of the Vltava River for a wonderful day exploring Prague. Prague is a great travel destination during the autumn months, as you'll avoid the cold and get to see the beautiful change of colors on the river banks.

Amsterdam Boat Tours and Cruises

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With all the canals and trees changing color throughout the city, Amsterdam is a wonderful spot to visit during an autumn trip. Rent a boat in Amsterdam to explore the canals, this is a must-do activity when wandering through the Dutch city. The romantic setting of Dutch architecture combined with cruising on a boat through the waterways makes for an unforgettable adventure. Other boating adventures to consider in Amsterdam include dinner cruises, sailboat rentals, and kayak rentals.


Fall Fishing Trips & Tours

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Before it gets too cold to enjoy the outdoors, planning an autumn trip to partake in outdoor activities like fishing or paddle sports is a must. Rent a kayak and power yourself through a local lake, taking in all the brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow that surround you. Take a fly fishing trip on a river and connect with nature as you reel in catches for hours, with a fishing guide, or on your own.


Heading out to enjoy the fall colors and changing leaves on a boat? Be sure to tag us (@Getmyboat) in your photos! Book your perfect fall boating trip with us, and you can download our app available for iOS & Android today. Be sure to tag us (@Getmyboat) in your photos!!