Autumn's crisp air and bright colors inspire travelers to embrace the outdoors. Cooler weather makes it an ideal time to take a hike or road trip to admire the fall foliage. And New England is one of the first fall destinations that comes to mind, with its picturesque historic towns and rolling hills blanketed in red and yellow leaves.

But there's no shortage of beautiful fall scenery to be explored across the U.S. You might visit Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, pair a bike ride past Colorado's aspen trees with craft-beer tastings, or spend a romantic fall weekend at a cozy inn by Lake Michigan.

Fall is also harvest season, so the best places to vacation include wine-country regions from California to Virginia. In many places, it's easy to combine leaf-peeping with stops at farmers' markets and apple orchards, plus seasonal treats like cider donuts or pumpkin pie. For families, autumn's corn mazes, hayrides, and roster of kid-friendly festivals are added incentives to keep traveling after school in back in session.

So what are you waiting for? Enlist your favorite travel companions and set out to enjoy the best fall experiences.