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Destinations

5 Unique Hotel Experiences to Try This Fall

Discover unique hotel experiences for fall. From fall foliage spa treatments to outdoor adventures, find your perfect boutique hotel getaway and book now.

Raquel Juster

• 5 min read

As the air turns crisp and the landscape ignites with brilliant autumn colors, the call for a seasonal escape becomes undeniable. While leaf peeping on a scenic drive is a fall classic, many luxury hotels and boutique resorts are elevating the experience far beyond just viewing the changing leaves. They are creating immersive, hands-on adventures that make for a truly memorable fall trip. From forest foraging to harvest-themed spa treatments, we’ve gathered five unique hotel experiences to try this fall that will fill your bucket list.

These properties offer more than just luxurious guest rooms and a cozy fire pit; they provide a perfect setting to connect with the season in a new and exciting way. It's time to trade a simple visit for an unforgettable experience.

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1. Forest Foraging in the Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

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Deep in the rolling Litchfield Hills of New England, a region known for its charming small towns and vibrant fall foliage, select boutique hotels offer guided forest foraging excursions. Accompanied by a local expert, guests venture out onto nearby hiking trails to identify and gather wild mushrooms, edible plants, and seasonal herbs. It’s an incredible hands-on activity for nature lovers, culminating in a chef-prepared meal featuring your hand-picked bounty. The experience provides a profound connection to the land, turning a simple walk in the woods into an outdoor adventure in gastronomy.

2. Harvest Spa Treatments at Salamander Resort, Virginia

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Situated in the heart of Virginia’s horse and wine country, the Salamander Resort & Spa embraces the fall season with a unique wellness twist. This luxury property offers seasonal spa treatments that incorporate the scents and ingredients of autumn, like pumpkin spice facials or apple cider-infused body scrubs. After a day of horseback riding across horse farms painted with fall colors, retreat to the spa for a treatment designed to soothe and rejuvenate. The resort’s impeccable service and gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains make it an obvious choice for a restorative fall getaway.

3. Grape Harvest & Wine Tastings in Texas Hill Country

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When you think of fall, Texas Hill Country might not be the first place that comes to mind, but its burgeoning wine scene offers an incredible seasonal experience. Luxury resorts and boutique hotels in the area partner with nearby vineyards to give guests a front-row seat to the grape harvest. Participate in the "crush," enjoy exclusive wine tastings, and celebrate the end of the growing season with live music and farm-to-table dinners under the stars. The guest rooms often feature rustic-chic decor and a classic vibe, providing a cozy home base for your viticultural adventures.

4. Mountain Biking Through Golden Aspens in Park City, Utah

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Park City transforms from a winter wonderland into a golden paradise in the fall, making it a bucket list destination for outdoor adventures. The area’s best hotels offer guided mountain biking trips through groves of shimmering aspen trees. The trails provide stunning views at every turn, with golden leaves carpeting the forest floor. After an exhilarating ride, you can unwind in a hot tub with panoramic views of the mountains or gather around an outdoor fire pit to share stories of the day. It’s the perfect fall trip for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike.

  • Don't miss: Reserving a room with a view at a top Park City resort to wake up to incredible views of the golden fall colors right outside your window.

5. Hot Springs Soaking in the Pacific Northwest

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There is nothing more magical than soaking in natural hot springs on a cool autumn day, and the Pacific Northwest is home to some of the world's most beautiful and accessible springs. Several hotels in the region are situated near these geothermal wonders, offering guests a cozy and luxurious base for their trip. Spend the day hiking through a national park, taking in the beautiful views of the changing leaves, and then spend the night unwinding in the mineral-rich waters. The combination of crisp fall air and warm, soothing water is pure bliss.

Travel Tips for Peak Color

To make the most of your trip, keep these fall travel tips in mind.

  • Time it right: Peak fall foliage varies by region. The Northeast and mountain regions often peak from late September to mid-October. Check a foliage map before you book.
  • Visit mid-week: Popular fall destinations can be crowded on weekends. Plan an off-season trip during the week for fewer crowds and potentially better rates.
  • Pack layers: Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Pack light sweaters, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes so you are prepared for any condition.
  • Book an award night: If you have hotel points, fall is the perfect time to use them for an award night. These rooms get booked quickly, so plan well in advance.
  • Consult the visitors bureau: Local tourism offices often publish guides to the best scenic drives, like the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, and can provide updates on where the fall colors are most vibrant.
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