The leaves are finally starting to turn. They are not as brilliant yet in St. Louis but there are some areas that would not be too far to drive to for those “Leaf Peepers” wanting to check out the fall foliage. Leaf Peeping is a thing. It’s an informal term for traveling to view, admire, and photograph changing autumn leaves as they turn from green to red, orange, yellow, and gold.
Going into next week, it’s good time to look for brilliant reds, golden yellows, and deep orange leaves, particularly in Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, and southern Indiana.
Did you know the Missouri Departmet of Conservation (MDC) publishes a weekly Fall Color Report that tracks changing leaves and highlights the best viewing spots across the state.
A drive through the Ozarks in Missouri is a wonderful choice for a scenic drive, with wooded hills, clear rivers and historic mills. That area is in the developing color stage and some of the best spots to look for color are Eminence, Current River, Alley Spring and the Ozark hills.
A drive south down 55 in Missouri also never disappoints.
The Mississippi River Bluffs, and Galena, Illinois are near peak to peak this week. The best spots to drive to: Galena, Mississippi Palisades State Park and the Great River Road. The Great River Road is always a great choice to follow with the wooded bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River.
Nestled in Missouri’s wine country, and just a 35-minute scenic drive from St. Louis, is Klondike Park, with 4 miles of hiking trails and a lookout bluff with views of the Missouri River and Katy Trail. This beautiful parkland was once the site of an old quarry.
A few miles down the road is the small town of Augusta, which is recognized as the first U.S. wine district because of its unique soil, historical significance and quality of wine. The area boasts 13 unique wineries that produce award-winning wines year after year.
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There are so many great places you can drive to to see the leaves change and if you plan to do it you better do while it’s still mild weather, and while the leaves are still on the trees. There’s usually a Drury Hotel within a short distance of anyplace you choose and if you do go to a Drury Hotel, be sure to use the special STL Sports Page discount link: CLICK HERE.
You can also use the promocode “SPORTS” if you make your reservations by phone.
Whether you take a day trip or get away for a few days, it’s worth it. Here are a few destinations a bit further from St. Louis but that would be fun fall destinations.
Fall Foliage and Wineries
Fine wine and fall foliage await.
Experience the magic of fall in wine country. Crisp air and vibrant fall colors set the scene for great time with friends and family. Make memories that last when you visit these top destinations for fall foliage and wineries near Drury Hotels.
Charlotte
An hour north of Charlotte is Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, a Tuscan villa against the backdrop of the colorful Blue Ridge Mountains. Try wines made from real Italian grapes.
About an hour’s drive from Charlotte, Uwharrie National Forest has untouched backcountry and some of the oldest mountains on the continent. Oak and hickory trees contribute to the bright colors and enjoy a hike along the ridgelines for beautiful views.
Denver
Rocky Mountain National Park is a gorgeous 1.5 hour drive from Denver. Drive or hike the park to experience the dramatic golden-yellow hue of the aspens. Boulder, 40 minutes from Denver, dazzles with its fall display of aspens, cottonwoods and maples. Combine fall sightseeing with great dining in this foodie paradise.
On the way back to Denver, stop off at Creekside Cellars where the wines are hand-crafted onsite from 100% Colorado grapes. Be sure to request a creek-side table and enjoy a Mediterranean menu and linger with your bottle of wine.
Cleveland
Less than 20 miles from downtown Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park will amaze you with a brilliant display of vivid orange and yellow foliage and stunning waterfall views. TheTravel.com named Drury Inn & Suites Cleveland Beachwood among the top hotels near the park.
Located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Sarah’s Vineyard is a winery occupying a pre-Civil War barn. Enjoy wine and wood-fired pizzas on the covered patio with a 3-story stone fireplace.
Des Moines
Ledges State Park is a scenic 45 minute drive from Des Moines and has a four-mile trail system that winds through steep slopes and scenic overviews, with sandstone ledges towering 100 feet above the Des Moines River. Don’t miss the iconic stone bridge spanning Peas Creek.
Jasper Winery is just minutes from downtown Des Moines so you don’t have to travel far to see fall colors. This urban winery, near Grays Lake, offers a modern tasting room and specializes in locally grown grapes and innovative new wine styles.
Richmond
York River State Park is known for its rare and delicate environment where freshwater and saltwater meet. With more than 25 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails, visitors can view the gorgeous fall foliage while hiking along the river shoreline.
Halfway between Richmond and York River State Park is New Kent Winery & Talleysville Brewing Company, both run lovingly by the same family. Enjoy a glass of wine or a seasonal beer, along with a wide selection of small plates in a charming setting.
Indianapolis, Terre Haute, & Lafayette
Turkey Run State Park, about an hour from Indianapolis, Terre Haute, and Lafayette, is one of the best spots in the state to view fall foliage. Eleven trails wind through ravines surrounded by the park’s signature sandstone cliffs. Don’t miss the panoramic view from the park’s suspension bridge.
Sycamore Winery sits on a beautiful 60-acre estate in West Terre Haute. Guests can enjoy the tasting room, the terrace overlooking the lake and walking trails. Look for the secluded fire pits by the lake to enjoy, roast marshmallows and sip wine with friends.
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San Antonio & Austin
Guadalupe River State Park, in Texas Hill Country, is a scenic 45-minute drive from San Antonio and two hours from Austin. Prepare to be amazed by the bright red Sumacs, brilliant yellow Cottonwoods and vibrant orange Cypress trees. Enjoy the scenery along 13 miles of hiking and biking trails.
Texas Hill Country, just a short drive from San Antonio and Austin, has over 50 unique wineries, each with its own charm. Grape Creek Vineyards is a beautiful Italian-style winery only an hour from San Antonio. You have to try the Bellissimo and the Cabernet & Syrah blend!
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