Fall is a great time to plan a quick getaway. The weather is crisp, the crowds are smaller and it’s a welcome break before the holiday season gets underway. Check out some of our favorite destinations for a short trip with your best friends or SO.

view overlooking stillwater Minnesota with the river in the foreground, and the town in the background dotted with autumn trees
Photo courtesy DiscoverStillwater.com

Spend a couple of days along the St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minnesota’s oldest town, and you’ll be planning a repeat visit before you leave the city limits.

McKinney townsquare

Whether you’re looking for a day of antiquing, a weekend escape, or a festival celebration, McKinney, Texas, is steeped in hometown charm.

Overview of Hermann Missouri from the winery with fall colors

Fall brings many pleasures in its wake and one of the most enjoyable is celebrating Oktoberfest in a small river town setting amid colorful foliage and an Old World ambiance.

Fall in Missouri

A weekend in Galena, Illinois is like a step back in time. Formerly a bustling 19th century Mississippi port city, the small town is now a destination rich in architectural, political, and economic history, a gorgeous setting amid rolling hills, and a wealth of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Petaluma

Well known as outstanding wine country, northern California is a can’t-miss area for seeing magnificent natural landmarks, visiting charming small towns, dining lavishly, and shopping for an amazing array of antiques and vintage collectibles (yes, many wine related).

Eureka Old Town

Head to Northern California’s Humboldt County, where the redwoods reign supreme then, visit historic Eureka and experience the charm of Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and stunning scenery. 

Flea market tents

If shopping flea markets is your idea of a relaxing weekend, there are plenty of great venues that operate all year long (or at least when no one else is). Check out this list of our favorites.

© Caruth Studio