13 Top Places To Visit In Florida This Fall
Florida is not only about brilliant sunshine, stunning beaches, and sensational summers. It is also an unforgettable fall destination with many fun destinations to witness glorious colors and exciting events. Due to the state’s unique weather, the season peaks from mid to late November, making it perfect as travelers from the North and West can still enjoy the blissful atmosphere of autumn. In addition to the great weather, fiery colors, festivals, and family-friendly activities, it is a great time to explore its numerous lakes, rivers, beaches, scenic drives, and all the incredible attractions this state is known for. So, buckle up and prepare for a memorable vacation in these top places in the Sunshine State.
Canal Street Nights, New Smyrna Beach
The Canal Street Nights is one of the highlight festivals in the Sunshine State, and it happens just for a day, which makes it all the more special. For outdoor lovers looking for one-day fun, this event is the perfect place to be. The festival features food trucks, artisans, local vendors, and exciting activities like live music and face painting. The next event is scheduled for November 21st, and it promises to be amazing.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs
Florida is renowned for hosting some of the world’s largest and purest freshwater springs. Wakulla Springs is a typical example and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the United States. In fall, this waterbody transforms into a dazzling sight as the crystal clear waters reflect the mesmerizing of the surrounding cypress, red sugar maples, and beech trees. Visitors can enjoy the views by walking on the park's 9-mile nature trail that slices through the forest and also offers a closer look at the area’s rich wildlife. Otherwise, boat tours are recommended for a laid-back experience on the water.
31st Annual Fall Festival of the Arts, DeLand
Autumn might just be a great time to explore the amazing world of arts at the 31st Annual Fall Festival of the Arts in the historic downtown of DeLand. For art lovers, this festival is a must-visit. The festival runs for just two days - November 23rd and 24th, yet it promises to be exciting and visually inspiring. The festival showcases the incredible artworks of Florida's top-tier talents and creatives, with over 150 artists on a talent show to be judged by a panel. The festival also offers creative activities for kids while other activities, such as live music and stunning cuisines, spice up the atmosphere.
The Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, Ormond By The Sea
The Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail is unbeatable among scenic drives in Florida, especially in the fall, as it offers coastal and foliage views in one trip. Across 34 miles, the route traverses old forests lavish with ancient trees and their leaves displaying fiery yellow, red, gold, and orange colors. However, these views are intermittently interrupted by some of the state's gems, like beaches, lagoons, rivers, creeks, and marshes, making the trip even more memorable. Thankfully, there are several stops along the way offering more adventures and scenery. Some of the finest among these stops include - Tomoka State Park, Woodham Woods Trail, and Bulow Creek State Park. There are also many access points to the Atlantic Ocean and North Peninsula for those who want to see the beaches and swim.
Suwannee River State Park, White Springs
The Suwannee River is a historic and scenic waterbody around White Springs, perfect for a getaway. During the peak season, only a few places in the state can rival the river’s spectacular scenery, as its banks are decorated with stunning colors from gold and yellow to crimson. Just a gentle paddle or boat cruise along this river and its surrounding colors is no doubt one of the loveliest endeavors one can experience in Florida. Meanwhile, the park also offers more ways to immerse in the scenery, including - camping, hiking, fishing, biking, and picnicking.
Falling Waters State Park, Chipley
Florida also has its share of waterfall-meets-foliage, and the Falling Waters State Park near Chipley is one place to witness this sight. This park hosts a 73-foot waterfall - the tallest in the state, plunging into a 100-foot deep, 20-foot-wide, fern-covered sinkhole. In the fall, the sight is incredibly charming as there are views of golden, yellow, red, and orange leaves around. Naturally, there are steep trails to the overlooks that also take visitors through even more gorgeous scenery. Additionally, the park has campsites, picnic tables, grills, and a 2-acre lake for swimming and fishing.
Three Rivers State Park, Sneads
Located on Lake Seminole, Three Rivers State Park is a perfect destination for fall visitors seeking relaxation and fall scenery. First off, this park is endowed with oak, maple, and deep-red pine trees which offer beautiful colors in autumn. It also has several amenites including a boat ramp, hiking trails, and campsites. While adventurers can hit the water for boating and paddling activities, laid-back folks can simple relax at the picnic area right on the lake and enjoy the views. Hikers can take on some top trails in the area like - the 2.3-mile loop Eagle Trail and the 0.8-mile loop Dry Creek Trail. While hiking, keep an eye out for some of the park's wildlife like migratory birds, gray foxes, white-tailed deer, and squirrels, among others. Meanwhile, the area offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the state, making it even more exciting.
Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway, Ormond Beach to Silver Springs
The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway runs through the heart of Ocala National Forest for 60 miles between Ormond Beach and Silver Springs. For leaf-peepers who want a relaxed experience, this byway is the perfect place to visit as each mile reveals a tapestry of alluring leaf colors as well as beautiful water bodies like the St. Johns River and Ocklawaha River, where foliage beauty meets scenic river charms. Other great picturesque points along the byway include Juniper Springs, Silver Springs State Park, the Cross Florida Green Way, and Tiger Bay State Forest.
Great Scott Farms, Mount Dora
Experience the best of family fun, shopping, and other fall-themed activities at the Great Scott Farms Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Mount Dora. From October through December, this farm invites visitors to explore its farmers market and 7-acre corn maze. The farm also offers zip lines, jumping pillows, 60-foot slides, and a castle-like playground for kids. There’s also a cafe on the farm where visitors can grab sandwiches and other tasty delights while enjoying the adventures.
Lake Eola Park, Orlando
The city of Orlando may have other charms in fall, but only a few can parallel the unforgettable views of autumn’s striking essence at Lake Eola. Elegant deciduous and Oak trees surround this gorgeous lake, and once the season hits its prime, their leaves glow in various shades of orange, red, yellow, and gold, creating a picture-perfect scenery worth capturing with the eyes and a camera. The lake is right in the heart of Orlando, so visitors can enjoy its views by strolling around the waterfront via a 0.9-mile paved path that circles the water. Afterward, sit by one of the benches to enjoy picnics and bask in the colorful views mirrored by the water. For more adventures, visitors can rent a boat to ride on the water. In the meantime, a Fall Fiesta is held in the Park and features arts, crafts, food, and wine. The next event is scheduled for November 2nd & 3rd, 2024.
Alfred B. Maclay Garden State Park, Tallahassee
The Alfred B. Maclay Garden State Park in Tallahassee invites visitors into a magnificent flora paradise, where the gardens, trees, and flowers display an impressive myriad of colors year-round. The park is renowned for its spectacular azaleas and camellias, plus a lush hardwood forest, all dazzling in natural beauty. Visitors are welcome to hike or bike the park’s 11 miles of trails to savor the visually enriching colors. Don’t forget to take a walk around Lake Hall to witness the colors of leaves as they glow beautifully in the water. Even more exciting, the lake is a prime spot for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Blackwater River State Park, Holt
The Blackwater River State Park is an epic destination centered around its namesake river, which boasts one of the purest sand bottoms in the country. In autumn, visitors can embark on kayaking, canoeing, boating, and tubing on the river to see the surrounding foliage colors as they reflect on the water. For hikers, the 1.75-mile loop Chain of Lakes Nature Trail, the 7.5-mile Juniper Creek Trail, and the 0.75-mile trail leading to the campground are excellent trails to explore for more views.
Torreya State Park, Tallahassee
Torreya State Park, named after the rare Torreya trees west of Tallahassee, is one of the most scenic fall destinations in Florida to visit. This park is flooded with an army of southern sugar maple, sourwood, and sweet gum trees, including the rare Torreya trees that line up along the bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River. In autumn, the leaves on these trees embark on a color festival as they explode into various shades of red, yellow, and orange. Tourists can hike the famous 14.4-mile Torreya Trail, which winds up the bluff and ravines of the park, and soak in the colorful foliage. The Weeping Ridge Trail is a shorter option to take here as it is just a mile long and also features foliage colors. Alternatively, visitors can boat or paddle on the Apalachicola River for a more relaxing experience. Note that the colors in this park can peak any time from late October to mid-November.
Unforgettable Fall Experiences in Florida
While Florida might not be the first place that comes to mind for leaf peeping in the country, this state also offers a memorable fall experience. With beautiful parks, waterbodies, scenic byways, and other natural features spread across the state, there’s no shortage of places to witness the beauty of autumn or enjoy some fall-inspired events. Even more interesting, fall in this state peaks when some states have bid farewell to the season’s colors, making it even more convenient, especially for late fall travelers. Visit Florida this season and head to these top destinations for a unique experience.
