About Allegany County: With more than 70,000 acres of public land in Allegany County, fondly known as “The Mountain Side of Maryland,” getting outside – especially during leaf-peeping season – is both easy and exciting. And if you need a little assistance, local outfitters like Angie in the Mountains and Wheelzup Adventures offer guided or supported adventures/rentals, customized itineraries and local experiences. Incredible leaf-centric public lands worthy of exploration in this destination include the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, C&O Canal towpath, Rocky Gap State Park and Green Ridge State Forest.
Where to Eat: Two brand-new restaurants in Cumberland this summer are gearing up for fall visitors. RootSTable, which opens this month, will feature a menu rooted in the Appalachian landscape: farm-raised proteins, foraged ingredients and seasonal produce sourced from within 150 miles of Cumberland. Diners can expect regional charcuterie and farmhouse cheeses, soups and salads built around what’s fresh, prime cuts from local pastures, and more. 1867 – A Modern Chophouse, located in The Wills Hotel, opened in June with a menu that combines classic steakhouse favorites alongside contemporary American influences. Focusing on quality ingredients, premium steaks, fresh seafood, craft cocktails and seasonal offerings, the restaurant will debut specials and ingredients seasonally. The Wills is the area’s first boutique hotel, marking an exciting milestone in the city’s continued revitalization.
About Shenandoah County: Shenandoah County, Virginia, is home to captivating small towns and villages, mountaintop resorts, the beauty of nature, and a true commitment to agritourism. Take in the autumnal views and breathtaking landscape by way of a scenic drive on Route 11, past quaint towns, lush farms and gorgeous mountain overlooks.
Where to Eat: Pick up the region’s best and freshest produce at Woodbine Farm Market, located on a Century Farm in Strasburg. With a mix of seasonal produce, fresh baked goods and specialty items, it offers the perfect makings for a flavorful picnic. Shifting to a sit-down meal option, Flour to Fork’s mission is to create a place where good food brings people together around a table. Located in Woodstock, Flour to Fork’s offerings are rooted in classic techniques with a rural flair. Expect menus to change seasonally, with lunch incorporating fresh ingredients and bread, made daily. Not-your-average pizza night is held each Wednesday, and date night with a seasonal flair is hosted weekly by way of Friday Supper.
About Dollywood: Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dollywood sits on 165 acres and is located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The theme park celebrates seasonal festivals throughout the year with distinctive décor, entertainment and food. This fall, families can enjoy Harvest Festival, which runs from September 14 through October 31. Festival-goers can experience a new nighttime event, Harvey’s Boo Bash, on October 16, 23 and 30. This event, which requires a separate ticket, will feature more than 12,000 glowing gourds; exclusive access to activities and attractions; multiple candy-collecting stations; and unique, event-only food and merchandise. Fall visitors can also experience Dollywood’s newest Smoky Mountain-themed attraction, NightFlight Expedition, which is set to open later this summer.
Where to Eat: Mountain-fresh seasonal flavors abound with the Harvest Festival Tasting Pass, through which guests can try up to five festival beverages, savory bites and desserts for one price. Featuring fall-forward ingredients and flavors like pumpkin and cinnamon, guests can expect to enjoy both traditional and unique menu items. A year-round favorite, Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread is freshly baked every day, and can be purchased at The Grist Mill or the Spotlight Bakery at the park’s entrance/exit. Advice: Don’t miss pairing the cinnamon bread with Dollywood’s own apple butter.
About The Otesaga: Located on the glimmering shores of Otsego Lake, The Otesaga Resort Hotel is the place to stay in Cooperstown, New York, nicknamed “America’s Most Perfect Village.” The 132-room resort has appealed to travelers visiting Cooperstown’s historic attractions for more than a century, and fall is an incredible time to visit the hotel and the larger destination. Cooperstown is tucked in the foothills of the Northern Catskill Mountains, and it’s known for having some of the earliest – and most fabulous – views of fall foliage. Whether you’re cruising on a bike to explore this charming destination, golfing at the award-winning Leatherstocking Golf Course or leaf-peeping from the resort’s famed veranda, enjoying the majestic fall season in Cooperstown is sure to be memorable.
Where to Eat: The Otesaga’s culinary options range from quick and casual to experiential and sophisticated. Hawkeye Bar & Grill offers classic comfort foods with regional flair, plus beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding autumnal foliage. As the weather becomes cooler and the seasons change, Hawkeye will feature seasonal dishes, alongside such celebrated year-round menu items as French onion soup with gruyere, a steakhouse burger and butcher’s meatloaf. For small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and beautiful seasonal views, stop by the Fire Bar to watch as the sky shifts to dusk in the fall evenings.
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