A ribbon of color and life providing a habitat for more than 9000 marine species, the Great Barrier Reef is an Australian icon. Despite increasing threats to its survival, the world’s largest living organism – stretching along the Queensland coast for over 2300km (1429 miles) – continues to dazzle visitors with its surreal underwater scenery from tip to tail. 

The sultry northern Queensland city of Cairns is the most famous gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, but there are plenty of other access points and an ever-increasing number of ways to experience this World Heritage-listed wonder and its 2900 individual reefs. Plan your first visit with Lonely Planet’s ultimate guide.

When is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef?

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is generally from June to November.

From December to March, northern Queensland (north of Townsville) has its wet season, bringing oppressive heat, abundant rainfall and the occasional cyclone – but you will find bargains on reef tours and accommodation. Stinger (jellyfish) season is between November and May, with Lycra stinger suits provided to snorkelers and divers for protection.

However, anytime is generally good to visit the Whitsundays (usually accessed from Airlie Beach) and the southern Great Barrier Reef (from Great Keppel Island near Yeppoon, south to Lady Elliot Island). Nature’s calendar is useful for timing your trip, with key events including the whale migration (during the winter months of June to October), turtle nesting and hatching (November to April, which is spring to autumn time in Australia) and coral spawning (a few days per year between November and December). Manta rays are particularly abundant around Lady Elliot Island in the Australian winter.

How much time do I need to see the Great Barrier Reef?

You can experience the Great Barrier Reef in as little as half a day from most land-based hubs along Queensland’s coast, but you’ll need a full day to experience the outer reef, home to more impressive diving and snorkeling spots.

Liveaboard dive boats visit the most spectacular reefs; most depart from Cairns and run for one to seven nights.

Further south, sailing trips in the Whitsundays are another popular way to experience the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Standard trips run for two nights/three days and include snorkeling stops and optional introductory dives.

Can I stay on the Great Barrier Reef?

It’s possible to stay on many of the reef’s 1050 islands and coral cays. Wake up with the reef on your doorstep at an island-resort base such as Lizard Island (accessed by plane from Cairns), Green or Fitzroy Island (accessed by boat or ferry from Cairns), the Whitsundays (fly to Hamilton Island or take a ferry from Airlie Beach), Heron or Wilson Island (accessed by barge from Gladstone) or Lady Elliot Island (accessed by plane from Bundaberg, Brisbane or the Gold Coast), to name a few.

You can also stay in pontoon-based accommodation managed by Cruise Whitsundays and Lady Musgrave Experience (operating from Bundaberg).

Is it easy to get to the Great Barrier Reef?

Cairns and the nearby resort town of Port Douglas are the main launching pads for reef tours, with myriad operators offering everything from half-day trips on large boats to intimate multi-day luxury charters. Cairns has an international airport, with transfers available to Port Douglas.

South of Cairns, reef tours also run from Mission Beach, Townsville, Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays, Bundaberg, Mackay, Yeppoon, Gladstone, Agnes Water and the town of 1770, and Bundaberg. Most of these hubs have domestic airports, and the Spirit of Queensland connects Brisbane to Cairns by rail. It typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes by boat to reach the outer reef. Tours on large catamarans (read: less likely to trigger seasickness) depart from Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays and Bundaberg. 

Top things to do at the Great Barrier Reef

Diving and snorkeling is a highlight for most visitors to the Great Barrier Reef, but there is a range of other ways to experience this aquatic wilderness.

See the reef without getting wet on a scenic small-plane or helicopter flight from Cairns or the Whitsundays. Non-swimmers can also view the reef from glass-bottom boats, semi-submersibles and underwater observatories at pontoons visited on day trips from Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays and Bundaberg. Or simply enjoy the island scenery on a Whitsundays sailing tour.

On land, Indigenous-guided tours offer a memorable opportunity to learn how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived in harmony with the reef for time immemorial, with a rich range of options in Cairns. You can also explore the reef with Indigenous guides on a day trip with Cairns-based Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel.

Cairns and Port Douglas are also great bases for visiting the lush Daintree Rainforest. At the southern end of the reef, learn about sea turtles at Bundaberg’s excellent Mon Repos Turtle Centre, then join a ranger-led tour (November to March) to see green and loggerhead turtles nest or hatch.

Where’s the most child-friendly place to stay at the Great Barrier Reef?

Many families gravitate to the abundance of family-friendly resorts and reef tour options in Cairns and Port Douglas. In the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island and Daydream Island Resort offer family-friendly island bases, and Airlie Beach has a wide range of caravan parks for road-tripping families.

Many boat trips to the outer reef visit family-friendly pontoons including Reef Magic opened near Cairns in 2022. Here nervous snorkelers can view fish without letting go of the platform, or stay dry and experience the reef via the semi-submarine, glass bottom boat, and underwater observatory.

How much money do I need to experience the Great Barrier Reef?

A standard day trip to the outer reef including snorkeling gear, lunch and glass bottom boat tours (if available) costs between AUD$200 to AU$350 per adult, with family rates usually available. Scuba dives can typically be added for an extra cost (budget from AUD$200 for two dives). The best deals are usually scored in Cairns, home to a wider choice of operators.

Half-day trips to the inner reef are a great way to save time and money. Some of the best snorkeling spots visited on half-day trips include Mackay Reef off Cape Tribulation (offered exclusively by Ocean Safari) and the Low Isles off Port Douglas (Reef Sprinter currently offers the cheapest tour).

One of the most affordable ways to stay on the reef is to camp on islands in Great Barrier Reef national parks including Capricornia Cayes National Park, Fitzroy Island National Park, and Whitsunday Islands National Park. The camping rate is just AUD$7.25 per night, but the cost of boat transfers can add up.

Where is the best diving and snorkeling on the reef?

There’s great diving and snorkeling along the reef’s entire length, with a rich diversity of corals, clams, tropical fish, turtles, rays, sharks and other critters commonly spotted from tip to tail. While the corals are more vibrant northward of Townsville, the slightly cooler southern Great Barrier Reef is generally less prone to coral bleaching. It’s also a particularly good place to see manta rays.

To access the most exquisite sections of the outer reef (including the Ribbon, Osprey, Milln, Bougainville and Holmes reefs) sign up for a liveaboard trip from Cairns. Some of the nicest reefs visited on day trips include Agincourt Reef (off Port Douglas) and John Brewer Reef (off Townsville). John Brewer Reef is also home to the Coral Greenhouse, part of an underwater installation series known as the Museum of Underwater Art.

Closer to Townsville, the century-old SS Yongala is widely considered to be one of the world’s top wreck dives.

Can I get scuba certified on the Great Barrier Reef?

The main learning centers are in Cairns, with open water courses offered by outfits like ProDive Cairns. You’ll get two days of pool and classroom training followed by two days of reef diving on day trips or three days of diving on a two-night liveaboard trip.

Advanced courses are hosted on liveaboards.

Isn’t the Great Barrier Reef dying?

It’s no secret that the Great Barrier Reef faces unprecedented threats, with approximately 73% of the 1000 reefs surveyed over the summer of 2023/24 found to be impacted by coral bleaching caused by heat stress. Other threats include coral-hungry crown-of-thorns starfish; cyclones; flooding and land-based run-off; and marine pollution.

While some parts of the reef have not recovered from bleaching events, other sections have bounced back, offering hope for the future of this dynamic ecosystem.

Visitors can help scientists monitor changes on the reef by reporting bleaching and other observations via the Eye on the Reef app. You can also support conservation efforts on a citizen science-based tour offered by the likes of Cairns-based Passions of Paradise. 

What should I pack for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef?

Sun protection is vital for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Ensure your sunscreen is reef-safe by choosing brands that use physical UV blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide rather than chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral.

No matter the weather forecast, pack warm layers and rain gear. And if you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling or diving, bring your own gear to save on rental costs.

What about accessible travel to the Great Barrier Reef?

The Cairns region offers the widest range of accommodation, reef tours and attractions with wheelchair access, along with support for visitors with vision and hearing difficulties or other needs.

How to stay safe on Great Barrier Reef

Tourism in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is tightly managed to prevent injuries to visitors and the reef. Follow safety instructions and avoid touching coral and other marine life.  

There have only been a handful of fatal shark encounters on the Great Barrier Reef, and jellyfish stings can be avoided by wearing a stinger suit. Outside stinger season, wearing a rash vest, swim shirt or wetsuit can help you avoid contact with non-life-threatening stinging critters such as sea lice.

It’s rare to find saltwater crocodiles on the Great Barrier Reef, but crocs are present along nearly the entire Great Barrier Reef coast. Be croc-safe and stick to designated swimming areas.

My favorite thing to do on the Great Barrier Reef

I’ve been hooked on the Great Barrier Reef since my first visit to the Whitsundays as a child. Among my favorite experiences was a recent stay on at the reef’s southern tip. Transformed from a barren coral cay to a thriving ecosystem, the island’s relaxed, family-friendly resort runs almost entirely on solar power. I loved getting up early to snorkel with turtles on the house reef, scuba diving with manta rays, and observing rare seabirds that nest on the island.

The vast landscapes of Montana are studded with towering mountain ranges (the state’s name comes from the Spanish word for mountain), sparkling lakes and endless prairies. It’s right up there as one of the titans of hiking in the USA with the sheer scale of trails available.

While Glacier National Park is understandably the star attraction for most visitors – it’s home to some of the best trails in the state – don’t sleep on the rest of Big Sky Country. This is the fourth largest state in the US, and with just over one million residents, you’re going to stumble across more wildlife than people on your hikes.

With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. We’ve got you covered with our pick of the best hikes in Montana and the top tips you need to ensure a wonderful time is had by all.

Tips for hiking in Montana

• The intense winters of the region limit hiking (without snowshoes) to the warmer months, roughly between April and October.
• The weather can change quickly – dress in layers and bring rain gear and a hat.
• Stay hydrated and make sure to bring plenty of water with you. Throw in some snacks packed with protein and carbs as well. 
• Be sure to bring a trail map, compass and flashlight (don’t depend on your cell).
• Montana’s wilderness is rich with wildlife, so take every precaution to avoid human-animal conflicts. Make noise on the trail to let them know you’re coming, and carry bear spray. 

1. Avalanche Lake

Best hike for beginners in search of stunning views
5.9 miles round trip; elevation of 757 feet; easy

Within Glacier National Park, close to the west entrance, is Avalanche Lake, easily the most trafficked trail in the entirety of Montana. It begins on a wooden footbridge through old-growth cedars and hemlock, before ascending gently alongside the glacial melt of Avalanche Creek. Despite the trail’s popularity, the scenery is rich and evocative of Montana’s deepest wilderness, with wildflowers like glacier lilies and critters of all kinds visible until reaching the crystal blue waters of Avalanche Lake. This easy trail is great for novice hikers or those without too much time to go deep into the backcountry. 

2. Grinnell Glacier Trail

Best hike for seeing glaciers up close
11.2 miles round trip; elevation of 2181 feet; challenging

On the Eastern side of Glacier National Park is the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a popular route among experienced hikers who want to see the park’s namesake glaciers up close. This incredibly scenic trek has waterfalls, wildlife – including grizzlies and mountain goats – and panoramic views of lakes, forests and mountain peaks. The hardest part of this challenging hike comes at the end when a series of switchbacks leads hikers to the glacial lagoon beneath Grinnell Glacier. Bring walking sticks, water, rain gear and anything else required for an all-day hike.  

3. Danny On Memorial Hiking Trail

Best hike for views above the clouds
8.6 miles round trip; elevation of 2037 feet; challenging

Montana’s beauty is not contained only within Glacier National Park. Just beyond the borders are more hiking opportunities to explore, including one of the best hikes in Whitefish: the Danny On Memorial Trail. This dog-friendly trek is steep and challenging but with plenty of rewards. On the right day, hikers can find themselves experiencing an inversion, watching the clouds roll by below them. This trail is often decorated with wildflowers and huckleberries to pick during the growing season. From the top, hikers enjoy a stunning view of nearby mountains and the Canadian Rockies. Many opt to take the ski lift down (or up), as it operates during the summer.

4. Mount Sentinel “M” Trail

Best hike for views of Missoula
1.2 miles round trip; elevation of 643 feet; moderate

Since 1908, a giant M has decorated the west-facing side of Missoula’s Mount Sentinel, and today, that M marks the end of a popular hike. A quick but steep zigzag trail leads to this local landmark, from which hikers get an excellent bird’s eye view of the city below. While the M is a destination in and of itself, there are two more trails to complete the final mile to the top of Mount Sentinel if desired.  

5. Rattlesnake Trail

Best hike for flexible options and abilities
33.9 miles round trip; elevation of 2818 feet; easy to moderate

Rattlesnake Trail is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, from hikers and backpackers to equestrians. It’s part of a larger complex of trails in the Missoula area, but this portion is distinctive due to being an old logging road. Usage of this trail is deemed heavy, but that’s really only for the first mile or so, and it’s around mile five that the beaver dams start appearing. It’s only after the ninth mile that the grade begins to steepen, so overall, there is a lot that a hiker can do with the trail provided. This trail is dog-friendly as long as they are leashed. 

6. College M Trail

Best hike for valley views
1.6 miles round trip; elevation of 820 feet; easy to moderate, depending on route

Bozeman’s M – also a nod to their local university – is seven years younger than the one found further north in Missoula, but it’s just as iconic to the region. There are two routes to reach the M and accompanying iconic views of Gallatin Valley: go right at the first junction for the steeper, more direct climb, or take a hard left for the less steep but more winding option. This popular trail can even be done during winter, provided the right gear is being used. It’s especially popular in spring, as it faces the sun, melting the snow earlier than on other trails. For a more challenging hike, continue up to summit Baldy Peak. 

7. Lava Lake (Cascade Creek) Trail

Best hike for overnighting by the lake
6 miles round trip; elevation of 1620 feet; moderate

Just outside of Bozeman is the Lava Lake Trail, a rocky path winding through dense lodgepole forests, past numerous waterfalls until reaching the beautiful Lava Lake set beneath the Spanish Peaks. This is a moderate trail with over 1600 feet of elevation gained throughout, and the rockiness can provide some technical challenges, but overall, it is doable for most hikers. Camping and fishing are permitted at Lava Lake, a stunning backdrop for any overnighter. 

8. Glacier Lake

Best hike for incredible views and a refreshing dip
4.6 miles round trip; elevation of 1492 feet; challenging

The Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the entire United States, so it’s no surprise that hiking in the area yields similarly beautiful views. Glacier Lake (and the trail to get there) is near the town of Red Lodge on Montana’s southern border. The trailhead is at the end of an unpaved road, and the hike itself is somewhat strenuous, despite relatively moderate elevation gain. Switchbacks and waterfalls define this trail, but the work is well worth it upon reaching Glacier Lake, which can be a great place to cool off after such a workout.  

Nashville may be best known as the home of country music, but this dynamic city contains multitudes of great things to do. Catch up-and-coming talent on intimate stages. Tour the Grand Ole Opry. Dine at some of the South’s best restaurants. Explore the city’s history, join the crowds listening to music in the streets and bars or hike through gorgeous wetlands bursting with wildlife. 

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Nashville.

1. Make a pilgrimage to the Mother Church of Country Music

The Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s premier music venue – this historic stage was the original home of the Grand Ole’ Opry and where superstars like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash jump-started their careers. Today it continues to welcome an impressive roster of country royalty, indie artists and internationally renowned speakers to its hallowed halls.

2. Discover Nashville rock ‘n’ roll at Basement East

Nashville may be known for its country scene, but Music City rocks hard. If you’re more into electric guitars than banjos, head to the Basement East. This local venue survived an encounter with a 2020 tornado and continues to churn out high-energy shows ranging from national touring acts to local cover bands. And if you’re lucky, one of Nashville’s rock elite just may make a surprise guest appearance.

3. Explore the artsy neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston

This former industrial area is experiencing a major boom, but luckily it’s managed to hold on to some of the quirkiness that originally made it a haven for Nashville’s local art scene.

Edgy galleries like Zeitgeist and the Packing Plant commingle with unique bars – Diskin Cider, Flamingo Cocktail Club and Never Never, to name a few – and a growing number of delicious restaurants. Stop by on the first Saturday of every month for the neighborhood’s buzzy art crawl. 

Detour: Just because Nashville loves its down-home cooking doesn’t mean it doesn’t appreciate inventive high-end food, and the kitchen at Bastion delivers one of the best chef-curated tasting menus in the city.

4. Catch an MLS game at the new Geodis Park

Nashville’s newly minted Major League Soccer team has shown that this southern city embraces all versions of football. Locals show up en masse to cheer on the Coyotes at the sparkling new Geodis Park; come decked out in team colors and revel in a spirited night of soccer alongside a raucous crowd. 

5. Learn about music history at the National Museum of African American Music

Black music has been – and continues to be – the driving force behind the American music scene at large, and this expertly curated museum takes you through the history of these contributions, from jazz and blues to today’s rock and hip-hop scenes. Expect a hands-on approach – you can record yourself singing with a gospel choir, compose your own blues ballad or even participate in a virtual dance battle.

6. Go for a float on the Harpeth River

Nashville is a river city crisscrossed by large water thoroughfares and a circulatory system of smaller rivers and creeks. You can find some relief from the southern heat by paddling your way down the Harpeth River, an easygoing waterway perfect for lazy floats in the sun. If you’ve got your own boat, you can access the river at several different locations in and around Harpeth River State Park; if you need to rent a vessel, try booking with Foggy Bottom Canoe or Canoe Music City.

Planning tip: Always check the forecast for the day before your outing – heavy rains can make the water levels rise to dangerous levels. Follow Foggy Bottom or Canoe Music City on social media for updates on weather-related closures.

7. Listen to the next big thing at the Bluebird’s famous songwriter rounds

Even before the show Nashville made it a household name, the Bluebird Cafe has been a legendary locale for singer-songwriter rounds featuring the best of the best – Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban all graced this stage before they hit it big. It’s all about the listening experience at this bar-restaurant, which puts audiences up close with both rising and established talent. 

Planning tip: The Bluebird’s storied status makes it a hot ticket – always book ahead.

8. Take a hike at one of Nashville’s green spaces 

Nashville may be an urban metropolis, but it’s also a place that values its green spaces. Head to Percy and Edwin Warner Parks to clock some miles on trails that feel far more remote than you’d think, or walk the extensive greenway at Shelby Bottoms, alongside East Nashville families. If you’re a wildlife fan, don’t skip Radnor Lake State Park, a striking nature reserve home to critters like barred owls, bald eagles, beavers, turtles and wild turkeys. 

Planning tip: Outdoor Nashville is so much fun to explore, but be careful during the hot months of July and August – temperatures and humidity levels soar and can be dangerous. Always bring water with you.

9. Learn to salsa dance at Plaza Mariachi

Managed by the Hispanic Family Foundation, this cultural center/music venue/food hall hosts everything from mariachi concerts to ballet folkórico performances to thumping DJ sets, but our favorite is the Bailamos party. Come early to learn salsa, bachata and merengue, and then test out your new skills on the dance floor the rest of the night.

Detour: Nashville is home to the country’s largest Kurdish community, and just across the street from Plaza Mariachi you’ll find Edessa Restaurant serving Kurdish and Turkish cuisine. Order the kabob festival for an indulgent culinary journey you won’t soon forget. 

10. Admire exhibitions at Nashville’s art deco treasure, the Frist Art Museum

At the center of Nashville’s thriving art scene sits the Frist Art Museum, a stunning space featuring rotating art exhibitions that range from exuberant contemporary installations to mid-century Italian concept cars to illustrated medieval textbooks. Housed in an art deco–era post office, this museum also hosts art workshops, live music events, lectures series and more.

11. Support local at Honeytree Meadery

Local businesses are Nashville’s beating heart, and the network of friendly folks working at and with Honeytree Meadery exemplify the camaraderie that can be found among business owners here. Their perfectly balanced mead is made with honey from East Nashville beekeepers; a favorite is the Flower Garden, a floral take on the old classic made with tea from local herbal experts High Garden, who lost their building across the street during the 2020 tornado.

If you’re hungry, snag a delectable creation from Alebrije truck parked out front, specializing in Mexico-City-style tacos made with heirloom corn tortillas.  

12. Test your taste buds at Prince’s Hot Chicken

Nashville Hot Chicken is an institution, and it all started with Prince’s, the city’s original hot-chicken shop. Still run by the great-niece of the founder, Prince’s brings the heat. Go easy with mild spice or give it all you’ve got with XXX hot – either way, you’ll be indulging in a quintessentially Nashville experience.

13. Join a dance party at the Blue Room

Part of Third Man Records’ headquarters – owned by Nashville’s most eccentric frontman, Jack White of the White Stripes and the Raconteurs – the Blue Room is a surreal art space/bar that hosts poetry readings, theater performances, film screenings and curated dance parties. It also features a cool “infinity wall,” a giant (fake) elephant head and a lush outdoor space, making an atmospheric setting for a night out.

Detour: Just around the corner from Third Man and the Blue Room is Tennessee Brew Works, one of the few local breweries that has truly nailed the art of having both excellent beer and excellent food. Open mics and live music also hit the small stage throughout the week – we love Bluegrass Wednesdays.

14. Watch the sunset from a downtown rooftop

Nashville’s ever-growing skyline is home to a number of spectacular rooftop bars delivering 360-degree views of Music City, each one with its own distinct personality. Channel your inner rockstar at the Bobby Hotel rooftop lounge, check out the latest themed pop-up at the Fairlane or swim in the infinity pool of the L27 Rooftop Lounge.

Detour: Nashville has bars in the sky – and bars down below. Seek out the Noelle’s Hidden Bar for a magical treat.

15. Tour the famous RCA Studio B

Now a branch of the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B is a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville’s music history – you can tour the birthplace of what became known as the Nashville Sound, a particular recording style that highlighted background vocals and string instruments. Industry titans like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded some of their biggest hits here. 

16. Rollin’ on the Cumberland River

Take a four–hour journey down the Cumberland River aboard the General Jackson Showboat, the country’s largest paddle-wheel boat. The 274-foot boat which can accommodate up to 1000 passengers is named after the first steamboat to navigate the Cumberland River in 1817. Covering all the bases when it comes to entertainment, the General Jackson Showboat features a variety of cruise offerings. Dinner theater with live music, scenic cruises, and holiday shows (think New Year’s Eve and Merry Christmas City) take place in the two-story Victorian theater.

17. Explore the largest home built in pre-Civil War Tennessee

In an era where women were restricted in their ability to work, earn a decent wage or even engage in business, Adelicia Acklen became the wealthiest woman in Tennessee. 

Belmont, her magnificent pink mansion accented with white trim and green shutters, was the largest house in Tennessee prior to the Civil War and took ten years to complete in 1853. Located on the campus of Belmont University Campus in the hip Belmont-Hillsboro Neighborhood, many of the rooms feature period and original furnishings, drawing visitors even more into the feel of the home’s past.

But there is more to the story than just an opulently furnished, confection-like home and a shrewd businesswoman. Mansions like these prospered because of the enslaved people who toiled there. Through much research, their stories at Belmont are also emerging, providing a more comprehensive lesson in history. 

Planning tip: Take time to stroll through the Belmont-Hillsboro Neighborhood. Close to Vanderbilt University and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a wonderful mix of Victorian-era mansions and fun restaurants and shops.

18. Savor French–Italian fare on 4th Avenue

Margot Cafe & Bar is a standout even on this stretch of 4th Avenue in Nashville’s cool Five Points neighborhood known for its trendy eating spots and one-of-a-kind boutique shopping. Founder Margot MacCormick was a 2019 James Beard Foundation Semifinalist for Outstanding Chef and her two–story restaurant with its gallery overlooking the first–floor bar and outdoor patio is always abuzz with serious food–seekers enjoying the take on local cuisine with French and Italian vibes. The menu changes frequently, giving visitors even more of a reason to come back. 

19. Bring the kids to Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

A lovely house museum and botanical gardens, Cheekwood is considered among the best of the American Country Era estates—the time between 1890 and 1930 when the wealth of Americans exploded because of the Industrial Revolution. The former home of Leslie and Mabel Cheek, the many rooms of the 30,000-square-foot mansion showcase furnishings and art original to the house. The surrounding 55-acres of cultivated gardens, divided into 13 distinct garden areas, are a lush accompaniment to the home’s stately beauty. There’s also a 1.5 woodland trail and statue garden to explore.

But what makes this estate even more unique is that it’s family-friendly with programs like the Enchanted Express, a garden railroad, hands-on art activities, summer camps and storytelling sessions. Adult education programs are also available including the Cheekwood Gardening School. 

20. Experience the ultimate celebration of country music

Mark your calendars for the annual CMA Fest, four days and four nights of non-stop music held each June. It’s a total music take-over covering more than two miles with seven day stages and two nighttime stages as well as activities and events all along Broadway. Organized and hosted by the Country Music Association, tens of thousands of people typically throng to the festival. 

Planning Tip: If you’re serious about going, buy your tickets and book your hotel rooms early. The countdown for next year’s fest begins as soon as the current one ends.

21. Celebrate a third-generation whiskey history

A road trip, historic marker, and two ancient bottles of Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey connected Andy and Charlies Nelson back three generations to their grandfather, a master distiller.

Using a century-old recipe, the brothers founded Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, winning awards and honoring their heritage. Now the distillery, located in Marathon Village, a happening neighborhood that’s a five-minute drive from downtown Nashville, is a place to take tours and sample the wares. That includes Louisa’s Liqueur, a Coffee Caramel Pecan drink, named after the woman who ran the original Nelson’s from 1899 to 1909. 

The menu at the distillery’s restaurant is a creative combination of Southern comfort foods, historic foodways, and local produce and products—fried green tomatoes, schnitzel, house-made bratwurst, and German chocolate cake. Book ahead for weekend tours, as they sell out quickly. 

Local Tip: It’s only about a minute away so be sure to check out the calendar of events at the Marathon Music Works.

22. Discover 12South, Nashville’s coolest neighborhood

This half-mile stretch of 12 South Avenue known as 12South is packed with stylish boutiques, restaurants, and businesses including a couple owned by celebrities. See what’s in stock at White’s Mercantile. Founded in 2013 by singer-songwriter Holly Williams to save a vintage gas station and reimagine the old general store concept, there are now five locations selling food, apparel, and home décor.

Check out Reese Witherspoon’s curated selection of women’s fashions, books and gifts at Draper James. Stock up on local and regional products at Made in TN. 

Amble down to the Frothy Monkey for a Golden Monkey Latte (espresso with steamed milk, honey, cinnamon, and their house turmeric blend) and the Vanilla-Cinnamon French Toast. At Five Daughters Bakery, order hand-crafted 100-layer doughnuts. A cross between a croissant and doughnut, they can take up to three days to make and come in such flavors as Chocolate Sea Salt and Maple Glaze.

23. Take the Honkey Tonk Highway

Immerse yourself in live music on the Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch of honky tonks on Lower Broadway where, from 10 am to 3 am, music fills the streets – and it’s free! You’ll discover legendary country music venues, including Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree at the Texas Troubadour Center on Saturday nights and Miss Zeke’s Juke Joint at Papa Turney’s BBQ. Robert’s Western World is known for its live country music and The Recession Special, a fried bologna sandwich served with a Moon Pie and cold PBR.

Planning Tip: Just like it’s free to walk the Honky Tonk Highway, you don’t have to spend a fortune or even a buck in Nashville to have fun. Check out these Music City destinations.

24. Follow Your Favorite Musicians at the Music City Walk of Fame Park

Located on Nashville’s Music Mile, between 4th and 5th Avenues, the Music City Walk of Fame Park on Nashville’s Music Mile honors musicians and others in the industry who have had an impact on the music world. 

25. Cross one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges 

Take in incredible views of the river and downtown skyline by walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which is closed to car traffic. The historic bridge built from 1907–09 connects downtown Nashville to East Nashville. 

Planning Tip: Though the walk is free, there are shops and restaurants on either end so bring your wallet with you.

It’s a universal truth: the turning of the fall foliage is one of the world’s most enchanting natural phenomena, and in the US, it comes in many different iterations.

You can drive beneath the amber canopies of New England, watch fiery maples take over the vistas of the northern midwest, or marvel at the golden aspens as they contrast against the rocky peaks of the west.

All that said, determining peak leaf peeping season isn’t an exact science – color windows vary across the country due to weather patterns, elevation, and sometimes just pure chance. Luckily for you, we’ve pulled together a list of our favorite fall destinations and tips on when to catch the colors at their brightest.

1. Stowe, Vermont

Perhaps the most famous US destination for autumn lovers, Stowe delivers on all counts: spectacular palettes of reds, oranges and yellows; tons of mountain roads and hikes; and access to the highest points in Vermont’s photogenic Green Mountains. Rent a cabin or pitch a tent among some of New England’s most gorgeous forests and enjoy the scenery this region is renowned for.

Stowe’s fall foliage season generally lasts from early September through late October, with colors peaking in the middle of that period. Use Stowe’s Foliage Finder to follow the color progression on the area’s various scenic drives. 

Planning tip: Looking for a place to stay? The 120-acre Topnotch Resort, nestled at the foot on Mount Mansfield, features a spa and fitness center, tennis academy, fly fishing on the Lamoille River and equestrian center.

2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 

This expansive park encompasses nearly 100 miles of central Appalachian views, making it one of the most accessible – and scenic – fall destinations in the eastern US. Drive along the famous Skyline Drive for breathtaking autumnal vistas or take to the trails to wander beneath Virginia’s beautiful deciduous forests as they don their most exuberant colors. 

Shenandoah’s fall colors generally begin to emerge in October, peaking midway through the end of the month. The park posts weekly updates on the color changes to their social media accounts, but if you’re looking for a more robust tracker ahead of time, check out the Virginia Department of Forestry’s fall foliage reports.

3. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

Imagine a large, mirror-like river buttressed by misty mountains and forested shores, all graced with explosions of gold and orange – a scene worthy of a painting. Happily, this place is real and it exists at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Oregon, one of the best leaf-peeping destinations on the west coast. 

Marvel at the intermingling of evergreen forests with alders and maples, all against a mountainous backdrop. Fall colors in this region of Oregon reach their zenith in late October.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

If you visit Zion in the fall, you’ll see a scene you likely won’t see anywhere else on earth: vermillion maples and yellow cottonwoods accenting the striking red rock desert. The park’s deciduous forests hug the creeks and rivers, and routes like the Emerald Pools Trail offer immersive journeys through Zion’s autumnal wonders. 

Zion’s color-changing process varies depending on elevation in the park – higher elevations peak in mid-October, while lower elevations hold on to their colorful foliage as long as the middle of November.

Planning tip: Nestled on the north fork of the Virgin River Springdale, just 1.4 miles from the park, is a great place to set up base camp for those not staying at Zion. With its backdrop of red rocks, it’s fun to explore shops and galleries like Bumbleberry Gifts, where you can try the bumbleberry pie, and DeZion Gallery, which features the works of local and regional artists.  

5. Tennessee/North Carolina state line

The Tennessee/North Carolina state line is a marvelous region to visit year round, but it takes on a special charm in the fall, when the mountain forests shed the green for a warmer set of hues. Hike through the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, get a birds-eye-view of golden valley floors at Roan Mountain, or dig deep into the beauty of southern Appalachia at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Like its western counterparts, Southern Appalachia’s fall colors are elevation dependent. The region’s higher reaches develop colors in early and mid-October, while lower elevations reach their color peaks in late October and early November.

6. West Virginia

Perhaps one of the country’s most unsung – but most beautiful – destinations, West Virginia is a fall foliage fan’s dream. Covered in forests that wrap across the state’s undulating terrain, West Virginia offers an alternative leaf peeping experience that rivals some of the country’s most famous fall color destinations. Watch the colors collide with the waterfalls and craggy peaks of the Potomac Highlands, take in views of crimson and tangerine tree tops along one of the continent’s oldest rivers (ironically named the New River), or hike into the multi-hued hollows of the Hatfield McCoy Mountains. 

Leaves begin changing in late September, with peak colors appearing in mid-October; West Virginia tourism manages a live leaf map throughout the fall, so you can see the changes as they happen.

7. Northwestern Wyoming

Wyoming’s mountainous west knows how to deliver drama, and the region takes things up a notch in the fall. Aspens, cottonwoods, willows, and black hawthorns drape the landscape in color, a striking foreground to the imposing Tetons and the winding Snake River. Yellowstone gets in the spirit, too, and don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s national forests. If you’re lucky, you may even get a light dusting of snow, which really sets the fall colors off. 

Colors peak in the Wyoming mountains from late September to early October, with colors changing earlier at higher elevations.

8. Wisconsin Northwoods

Home to sprawling boreal forests and glacial lakes, the Wisconsin Northwoods immerse visitors in true autumn glory. Take a scenic drive through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, fish for trophy musky beneath the multihued canopy, or visit one of the region’s small communities for fall festivals.  

The fall foliage in northern Wisconsin begins its transformation in September, with colors maxing out in early October. Follow Travel Wisconsin’s fall color reports for live updates.

Detour: It’s a little over two hours away, but Door County, a peninsula bordered by Lake Michigan on one side and Green Bay on the other, is a spectacular fall foliage destination. Its scenic drives meander through a landscape of rolling hills, apple orchards, and such adorable small towns as Fish Creek and Egg Harbor. The area is known for its artist galleries, wineries, breweries, and distilleries as well as cheese. Peak fall color season is late September to mid-October.

9. Northern Nevada

Nevada may be well known for its deserts, but its mountainous north provides an oasis of fall foliage that just may surprise you. Head to Lamoille Canyon in the Ruby Mountains to see golden treetops wrap around the region’s rocky peaks, and if you’re feeling adventurous, don a backpack and immerse yourself in nature on the Ruby Crest Trail.

Fall colors emerge in mountainous Northern Nevada in October, usually reaching their most colorful state at the end of the month.

10. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas

This 35-mile route crosses the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozarks in Arkansas, taking you through two national forests (Ozark and Ouachita), across the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail, and up to Buffalo National River, the country’s first. A joyous network of twists and turns through the state’s most lush countryside, this byway delivers autumn foliage in high definition.

Like other destinations in this part of the country, the Ozarks start seeing fall colors in late September or early October, with things peaking in late October and early November.

11. Tunnel of Trees, Northern Michigan

Considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States, the 20-mile stretch of M-119 winds its way along Lake Michigan under a canopy of treetops, giving the road the nickname of Tunnel of Trees. Pretty any time of the year, the two-lane road is spectacular in the fall when the leaves are a blaze of red, orange and yellow.

Following the crest of a bluff overlooking the blue waters of Lake Michigan, at times it’s possible to catch a glimpse of Beaver and Isle Aux Galets, two nearby islands. Designated as a Scenic Heritage Road, M-119 is also a trip through history. Originally used as a north/south trail by Native Americans, the road going north begins in historic Harbor Springs. Located on Little Traverse Bay, the town is a gem of lovely Victorian and Queen Anne homes and a downtown filled with boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. 

Peak fall color season is typically the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. 

Planning tip: Along the way, stop for ice cream and a look around the general store in Good Hart, which first opened its doors in 1934. Then continue to Cross Village and the legendary (at least to Michiganders) Leggs Inn. 

12. Catskill Mountains, New York

With its gorges and soaring peaks, vast vistas, lakes and the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains has been a popular destination since the 1800s. That’s when its beauty, captured by such Hudson River School painters as Thomas Cole and Frederic Church, inspired city dwellers along the Eastern Seaboard to make their way there. Follow the Hudson River School Trail to learn more about these artists. Among the 21 stops are the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in the village of Catskill and the Hudson River from the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. 

Stroll across the Hudson River Skywalk connecting Cole’s home to Frederic Church’s Olana, its fantastic architecture inspired by the artist’s time in Persia. Explore such natural wonders as Kaaterskill Falls. It’s New York’s highest waterfall–260ft compared to Niagara’s 167ft. 

Though the time varies according to elevation and weather, typically fall colors in the Catskills begin in late September and peak around the second week in October.

13. Covered bridges, Parke County, Indiana

Travel along scenic drives lined with leaves displaying their vibrant fall colors on a trip to the past in Parke County, Indiana. There are 31 wood-covered bridges here, the oldest dating back to 1856, in what locals call “The Covered Bridge Capital of the World.” Though they were designed for horse and buggies, the majority carry cars over waterways such as Raccoon and Sugar Creeks.

As an added plus, Parke County has two working grist mills. The picturesque  red mill in Bridgeton is next to the Bridgeton Covered Bridge that spans a 200ft long waterfall. The other, in the tiny town of Mansfield, is open only for festivals, including the 10-day Parke County Covered Bridge Festival that starts on the second Friday of October.

The timing is perfect as that’s when the fall colors peak and it’s also when this very rural county comes to life. Download the map and choose where to go. 

Planning tip: The festival attracts over two million people so expect delays and crowded roads. Or, go just before or after. You’ll still get a lot of colors though you’ll miss the events but also the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which US state has the best fall foliage?

New York State typically ranks highest for fall colors often followed by other  Eastern Seaboard states such as Vermont. Others frequently listed include Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

What are the best weeks for fall foliage?

Depending upon the location and elevations, fall colors can begin as early as mid-September all the way and continue on through early November.

What state has the longest fall foliage?

Connecticut, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Missouri and New York are among the top states for the longest fall foliage.