We Asked Travel Experts Their Favorite Fall Foliage Destination in the U.S.-and They All Picked the Same Place

""There's something different here in Tennessee during the fall season, when the humidity finally lifts and the crisp air sets in," Chloe Buss, the regional director of field operations at AvantStay, told Travel + Leisure."

""It's the mix of warm sunlight with changing autumn colors that drives people to visit Nashville and the Smoky Mountains each fall. Throw in the beautiful scenery and cityscapes, along with great food, shopping, a dash of college football and bonfires, and all roads lead to Tennessee-now that sounds like a country song in the making.""

""In the Smokies, hike up to Rainbow Falls or go to Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook; both loved by locals and tourists alike," Buss shared about exactly where to go to see the best fall foliage in the park. "As you explore the winding trails, cozy towns, and fiery colors of fall, the whole region starts to feel like home. One visit during fall and it's as if you're practically related to Dolly Parton by the time you leave.""

""one of the most biodiverse areas in the U.S. It is home to elk, deer, otters, and over 1,900 black bears.""

Tennessee is highlighted as the premier fall travel destination, combining crisp, low-humidity weather with warm sunlight and vivid autumn colors. Nashville offers urban attractions including food, shopping, cityscapes, college football, and seasonal gatherings, while the Great Smoky Mountains provide scenic trails, overlooks, waterfalls, and charming nearby towns ideal for leaf-peeping. Specific destinations such as Rainbow Falls and Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook showcase peak foliage. The Smokies also support high biodiversity, with wildlife viewing opportunities including elk, deer, otters, and over 1,900 black bears. Long weekends and pleasant fall weather make short trips especially appealing.

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