The Best Places To Travel For Fall Foliage And Cozy Getaways

best places to travel for fall

Fall lovers rejoice! We're just a month away from crisp air, vibrant foliage, and the best weekend getaways for you and your shotgun rider. From quaint villages and scenic drives in New England to National Parkhiking trips to a few surprise romantic fall weekend getaways, here are some of the best places to travel for fall. So break out your cozy sweaters and fall boots for a relaxing trip surrounded by the beauty of autumn, AKA the best season ever.

Best Fall Foliage Destinations 2024

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NYC + Hudson Valley

Live out your When Harry Met Sally dreams with a trip to NYC in the fall. Stroll around Central Park and Bethesda Terrace, one of its filming locations, and peep the yellowing maple leaves from here to the charming West Village. (Browse our editor's guide to NYC for Brooklyn favorites too). Then hop a Metro North train from Grand Central Terminal or drive to Hudson Valley and the Catskills for charming towns like Cold Spring, Rhinebeck, Hudson and Kingston. Halloween lovers will enjoy The Great Jack O' Lantern Blaze at the Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, starting in September. Check out The Amelia, a 19th-century Queen Anne-style home for an overnight and Grazin, a farm-to-table restaurant in an old diner, both in Hudson. Hike through colorful fall foliage at the Mohonk Preservein New Paltz, and then stop for afternoon tea at the Mohonk Mountain House. Pick apples at the Jenkins Leuken Orchards and score free cider tastings at Twin Star Orchards or Brooklyn Cider House for wood-fired pizza and the taste of fall.

Mackinac Island Tourism Board

Mackinac Island, MI

Get away from the hustle and bustle this fall and ferry across Lake Huron from Mackinac City, MI to historic Mackinac Island. This tiny island actually has a "no car" and no hotel chains policy, very much part of its appeal. Instead, stay at the coastal-grandma darling Hotel Iroquois on Lakeshore and rent a bike or horse carriage ride to admire the island's charming Victorian architecture along the East Bluff with grand views of Lake Huron. Don’t miss out on the Butterfly House (a butterfly museum), famous fudge at the Mackinac Island Fudge, and a sunrise kayak tour.

Cozy Autumn Getaways In New England

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The Berkshires, MA

The Berkshires, located in western Massachusetts, is also part of the Appalachian Mountains, which turn all sorts of vibrant fall colors come autumn. Explore the scenic trails and visit historic sites like Edith Wharton's home, Ventfort Hall Mansion and the Gilded Age Museum, which is just five minutes away from Life House, Berkshires, a charming stay in the town of Lenox (decor lovers will swoon). Shakespeare and Company performing arts theater and Tanglewood Music Center are also nearby for some vacay entertainment. Other Berkshire towns to check out include Stockbridge and Great Barrington for shopping, dining, and more New England charm.

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Kancamagus Highway, NH

One of the most scenic drives in New England is the Kancamagus Highway, AKA "The Kanc," a 35-mile road through White Mountain National Forest and the Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway. Stay at the farmhouse-modern Colonial-era Launchpoint Lodge in Lincoln. Visit the Flume Gorge, a natural chasm at the base of Mount Liberty, and the Basin, a granite pothole at the foot of a waterfall. In town, Clark’s Trading Post is a theme park with a bear show, an Americana museum and a steam railroad, fun for kids. Fun for adults, visit the Seven Birches Winery inside RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain, which offers wine tasting daily and "Meet the Winemaker" tours weekly.

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Stowe, VT

Stowe, a northern Vermont ski town, lives up to its nickname: "Fall's Color Capital." With a view of Mount Mansfield, AKA, the highest mountain in Vermont, drive along the scenic Smugglers' Notch Pass Scenic Highway, or Route 108, and stop to experience outdoor activities like biking and zip lining in the area. Prefer to soak in the quintessential charm of Vermont? Stroll downtown Stowe and take a Ben & Jerry's factory tour, sing The Hills Are Alive with an Austrian lager at the von Trapp Brewing (part of the resort owned by the original Sound of Music family), and don't miss out on their Oktoberfest 2024 celebration for the true spirit of fall.;)

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Providence, RI

Start your Rhode Island adventure in the capital city. Take a leaf-peeping stroll and admire Providence's 18th- and 19th-century homes along College Hill. Visit the RISD Museum and the John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge and the many dining hotspots in the area like Oberlin or Persimmon for Modern American cuisine. Venture off from here for the Rhode Island foliage drive through charming coastal villages like Little Compton and Tiverton Four Corners. South Kingstown is home to scenic beaches, rustic farmlands, and historic landmarks.Sheperds Runis a lovely stay in South Kingstown with a vineyard and tasting room in a lovely setting.

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Washington, CT

Washington, Connecticut is just as New England-cute as the fictional Stars Hollow. Walk the Henry David Thoreau Bridge or Hidden Valley Preserve for your fall-foliage fix, and follow with shopping for unique accessories at stores like J. Seitz & Co. and colorful stationery at D.K. Schulman Design. Stroll around the Washington Green Historic District to see the town's colonial architecture and the Gunn Historical Museum for a dose of history. Find your next read at the Hickory Stick Bookshop (it even has a Rory Reads Book List). Check out the Washington Supply Company before eating at Marty’s Café or The Po Café. Kick your boot heels up at the Hopkins Inn, right on the north shore of Lake Waramaug. The Hopkins Inn beach is a great place to photograph all the fall foliagein town.

Best Places For Fall Hiking Trips

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Jackson Hole, WY

Jackson Hole is a completely different town in the fall — gone are the ski people from out east, and here to stay are cowboys in town for the rodeos, bison herds roaming the plains, and fly-fishers on the Snake River. Stay at Spring Creek Ranch, a gorgeous retreat with a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the Tetons. If you travel to Jackson Hole and don’t pay a visit to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, were you even there? Saddle up (literally) on one of the bar stools, order a round, and prepare for a night of dancing — the live music is consistently spectacular. Spend a day rafting in the wilderness (Jackson Hole Whitewater Rafting), check out a Jackson Hole Rodeo, and get lost in the open fields at the National Elk Refuge. The Tetons are snowcapped year-round — though the Grand Teton National Park is always worth it, rain or shine.

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Asheville, NC

Just a two-hour drive from the Charlotte airport is this bohemian haven for nature lovers. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has it all: a vibrant art and music scene, award-winning eateries inspired by global and Appalachian influences, and all the outdoorsy adventure nature lovers love to do. Travel along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway toward The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, bike, and go chasing waterfalls. The Deep Creek Waterfall hike is a 5-mile loop known for its three beautiful waterfalls. Post-hike, book a treatment (they offer day passes) at the subterranean spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn and float underneath cavernous rock walls, arches and tunnels. Take a self-guided tour of the gardens at the 19th-century chateau-style home of George Washington Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate. Set in a vintage home in the historic Biltmore Village, Corner Kitchen is a farm-to-table favorite with elevated Southern-style cuisine. Finally, art studio hop in the River Arts District, located on Asheville's picturesque French Broad River, to wrap your Asheville to do list.

Visit Utah

Zion National Park, UT

Zion National Park is a stunning destination in the fall, when the fall foliage contrasts with the park's beautiful red rock cliffs and the cooler temps make hiking and exploring more comfortable. Hike popular trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows, achallenging hike that leads to a beautiful natural formation known as The Subway, a tube-like canyon with cascading waterfalls. Wildlife is more active this time of year so you may get more sightings of mule deer, foxes, bats, and bighorn sheep. Angels Landing combines stunning red rock scenery with a breathtaking view. (Expect to wade through the waters of the Virgin River). Stay at the Driftwood Lodge located close to the Canyon Overlook Trail with al fresco dining at the on-site restaurant, Kings Landing Bistro.

Vasilis Karkalas

Sedona, AZ

Sedona’s breathtaking Boynton Canyon is home to the iconic wellness retreat Mii amo, which offers casitas with private balconies, in-room kiva fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as a new restaurant called Hummingbird. The chef-created menu at Hummingbird includes items like salmon ceviche, duck breast, poulet rouge, and gluten-free and vegan selections. Next door at neighboring property Enchantment Resort you’ll find 400 miles of trails. Take a stargazing tour, hike Devil's Bridge and Cathedral Rock, and enjoy Mi Amo's daily guided meditations.

Blue Arauz

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME

Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is a picturesque town known for its stunning beauty and wild neighbor, Acadia National Park. In the fall, Bar Harbor becomes a sea of red, orange, and yellow. Stay at the Little Fig Inn and walk around Bar Harbor's quaint shops, cozy cafes, and seafood restaurants like Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen, a farm-to-table seafood and pizza spot. Acadia National Park is known for its rugged coastline and granite peaks. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, offers breathtaking views (hike The Precipice Trail for amazing vistas of the Atlantic). Wildlife is busy this time of year so look out for spot deer, foxes, and tons of bird species.

Romantic Fall Weekend Escapes

Shvets Anna

Paris, France

Enjoy the calm after the Olympic storm this fall — or any fall afterwards — when Parisians return home and the city gets back to its charming scene of cafes, museums, and in the fall, golden leaves and crisp air. The Champs-Élysées and Jardin des Tuileries are lined with autumn foliage, perfect for strolls and "reading" picnics. Grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée after shopping on the Champs-Élysées. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Fall also kicks off new art exhibits, theater performances, and music concerts across the city. Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais, and explore the city markets in neighborhoods like the Montmartre. Très Bien!

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San Francisco, CA

San Francisco comes alive during its Indian summer when it's finally warmer than actual summer. The city’s infamous Karl the Fog gives way to clear, sunny skies and the city is seriously magical. Stay at the Inn at the Presidio inside the beautiful The Presidio of San Francisco, a national park at the Golden Gate Bridge, which is right across the street. Enjoy the view with locals at the First Sunday Afternoons at Presidio Tunnel Tops, where the city's best food trucks gather, or grab a bite at Sessions at the Presidio, a buzzy craft-beer bar and gastropub with a modern decor and outdoor seating. Walk along the beach at Crissy Field Park, grab a hot chocolate at The Warming Hut, and sit with the seagulls while looking out on the Bay, the Bridge, and Alcatraz. Fall is also the season for festivals, including the free Hardly Strictly Bluegrass music festival in early October. Explore the neighborhoods like Pacific Heights along bustling Fillmore Street (grab a coffee at cute Jane Cafe) and Hayes Valley for indie shopping, outdoor beer garden Biergarten, and delicious sweets at French-inspired Miette. For sure grab a cocktail atop the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotelfor a fantastic 360-degree view of the city.

Visit Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, WI

Known for it scenic beauty, Lake Geneva in Wisconsin is a popular resort town, perfect for a fall romantic getaway. Stay at the cozy The Geneva Inn near Big Foot Beach State Park and Riviera Beach. Stroll theLake Geneva Shore Path for breathtaking views of the lake, where you can kayak, paddleboard, or take a boat toursurrounded by midwest autumn at its most beautiful. Lake Geneva’s historic downtown is a mix of boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafes like the House of Bogini, a planet-friendly cafe with European spin.Visit the Black Point Estate and Gardens for history and architecture inspiration and a walk around the grounds for a stunning fall scene.

Bartholomew Estate Winery

Sonoma, CA

Sonoma in the fall is New England meets wine country. The vineyards change to beautiful colors of red and gold, the nights start to cool, but the day weather is still sundress temps. The Lodge at Sonoma is a perfect stay and one of my favorite spa experiences. Grab an outdoor lunch at beautiful Layla at the MacArthur Hotel, and stay warm on chilly fall nights at the firepits at The Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa — perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and a cocktail. Take a bike ride along the Sonoma bike path to the town square for shopping and eating (Sunflower Caffe has a darling garden in the back) and Valley Bar and Bottle offers inventive California cuisine that's sourced locally and so delicious in an outdoor setting. The bike path leads to two Sonoma wineries — Bartholomew Estate Winery, where you can do a short hike into the oak grove of the winery or horseback ride in the park and California's first winery, Buena Vista Winery, built in 1857. Three Sticks Winery is another downtown gem on your way back to the Lodge.

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There's no other place I'd rather vacation than Disney. I know, that might be a controversial statement, but I love visiting the Disney theme parks on my own, with family, friends, and basically anyone else who will join me. As an annual pass holder and self-proclaimed Disney adult, I seriously frequent Walt Disney World multiple times a week — and it's absolutely on my bucket list to visit all of the other parks around the world in my lifetime.

I've been to Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure — and I'll be able to check Disneyland Paris off my list soon — but until then, I've come up with a list of the parks I've already visited (and want to visit) in order of priority. Here are all Disney theme parks around the world you should visit, ranked.

TL;DR

  1. Magic Kingdom
  2. Epcot
  3. Hollywood Studios
  4. Animal Kingdom
  5. Disneyland
  6. Disney California Adventure Park
  7. Disneyland Paris
  8. Walt Disney Studios Park
  9. Tokyo Disneyland
  10. Tokyo DisneySea
  11. Shanghai Disneyland
  12. Hong Kong Disneyland

All The Disney Theme Parks, Ranked

Disney World

1. Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is quintessential Disney for both the young and young-at-heart. Located in Central Florida, when you think of Disney, this is usually what comes to mind. It's most notable for the larger-than-life castle where Cinderella and her princess friends get together to meet guests everyday.

I especially love Magic Kingdom because it has a bit of everything for those classic fairytale lovers and thrill seekers. You'll find coasters such as Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, as well as more classic attractions like It's A Small World and Peter Pan's Flight that are suitable for the whole family. Plus, the entertainment is top notch with a daytime parade, evening fireworks, and a show on the castle stage.

(A word to the wise, though: there really isn't any alcohol in this park, so don't expect to have that Epcot-esque experience here)

Disney World

2. Epcot

Speaking of Epcot, it's genuinely unlike any other theme park in the world. The park somehow brings together futuristic concepts (Space 220 is out of this world) and cultural diversity (hello, World Showcase!) in such a unique way! Not only can you explore 11 different international pavilions, eating and drinking to your heart's content, but you can also enjoy incredible rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

And while Epcot has rides and character meet and greets, this park really stands out for its festivals. Every few months, guests can experience different themed festivals filled with varying entertainment, food, and beverage offerings. Epcot's International Food and Wine Festival is arguably the most popular — I mean who doesn't love to celebrate that?! Other incredible celebrations include the International Flower & Garden Festival, International Festival of the Arts, and Festival of the Holidays. I highly recommend scheduling your trip to Epcot during one of these festivals periods because it truly shows the park at its best capacity.

(And if you're feeling a silly, you can "Drink Around The World" in Epcot's World Showcase any time of year 😉)

Disney World

3. Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is flashy and fun, featuring larger than life productions to high-tech attractions and rides. You'll find a bit of everything at Hollywood Studios, but Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land are the park's newest developments with attractions including Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon, and Slinky Dog Dash. Oh, and I can't forget about Tower of Terror — the icon of the park that can be seen from multiple points across the Disney property.

Lastly, you won't want to miss Fantasmic, the parks nighttime spectacular that combines water, characters, fireworks, and more into a breathtaking show for guests each night. Content Editor Haley Sprankle constantly has the theme song stuck in her head — it really is THAT good.

Disney World

4. Animal Kingdom

No trip to Disney World is complete without a visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom. Whether you're looking to be in tune with nature or see wildlife in action, you can experience it all at DAK.

For starters, you can go on the Kilimanjaro Safaris where you'll be guided around an African savannah right in the heart of Florida to see animals like giraffes and hippos in their natural habitats while learning facts about the park and their conservation efforts. Outside of the rides, you can't miss the Festival of the Lion King which is a 30-minute Broadway-style show that features acrobats, live music, puppetry, and fire throwing — all in celebration of the beloved film!

The only downside to DAK is that it can get extremely hot, and there aren't a lot of places to find relief from the brutal Florida sun. I'd definitely be sure to wear protective hats and hydrate, whenever possible!

Disneyland

5. Disneyland

A visit to the original Disney park is a must-do at some point in your lifetime. Disneyland is home to Sleeping Beauty's castle and has a quaint, old-school feel that instantly transports you back in time. Unlike Disney World, characters at Disneyland roam and meet guests as they interact with their environment — almost as if they just hopped off a page from a storybook.

In terms of rides, there's no shortage of them at Disneyland, from Indiana Jones Adventure to Pinocchio's Journey. Lastly, no trip to Disneyland is complete without paying homage to Walt outside of his apartment on the top of Main Street U.S.A. Don't forget to grab a churro too — they're delicious!

Disney California Adventure Park

6. Disney California Adventure Park

Directly across from Disneyland is Disney California Adventure — here you'll find a mix of Disney, Pixar and Marvel characters and rides for the whole family. DCA is home to the beloved Cars Land, AKA where you can visit Radiator Springs Racers and Flo's V8 Cafe. Other highlights of the park include Pixar Pier, San Fransokyo Square (inspired by Big Hero 6), and Avenger's Campus. If you get hungry at DCA, there are plenty of dining options, from Carthay Circle to Lamplight Lounge. Plus, who doesn't love that iconic Mickey Mouse ferris wheel?!

Joan Costa

7. Disneyland Paris

Making your way to Europe? Be sure to make a stop at Disneyland Paris — located only 40 minutes away from the downtown area — to get your fix of Disney magic. Disneyland Paris is centered around Sleeping Beauty's Castle and is home to four lands — Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland, and Discoveryland.

Like any Disney theme park there are so many rides, characters, and fun to get into. Step foot into Phantom Manor or Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain to immerse yourself in Disney's iconic storytelling whether by yourself or with family members.

Walt Disney Studios Park

8. Walt Disney Studios Park

Next to Disneyland Paris, you'll want to head over to Walt Disney Studios Park to find attractions and characters inspired by Disney, Pixar and Marvel. Some of the most exciting elements? Crush's Coaster, Cars Road Trip, and Ratatouille — because of course we couldn't exclude Paris's favorite rat. It's definitely a slower paced park with less offerings, however, you'll still feel the magic as soon as you step foot onto the property.

Tokyo Disneyland

9. Tokyo Disneyland

If you find yourself in Tokyo, then you'll absolutely wanna do yourself a favor and head over to Tokyo Disneyland. While it's completely it's own park, Tokyo Disneyland seems most similar to Magic Kingdom with its seven different "lands" throughout. You'll find the World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown, and Tomorrowland.

You'll find some classic Disney attractions, like the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and The Beast alongside other family-friendly options like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Monsters Inc Ride and Go Seek. Plus, you'll be able to see lots of characters throughout — not to mention the exciting entertainment offerings from Jamboree Mickey to Harmony in Color!

Lastly, this park has SO much great merchandise options, so you can bring home something unique with you to remember your trip!

Tokyo DisneySea

10. Tokyo DisneySea

Head on over to Tokyo DisneySea where you'll find a plethora of rides and characters from beloved Disney movies. Aside from Mickey and Minnie, you can meet lots of princesses alongside Duffy and friends (the cutest little animal characters!) to fill up your autograph book and camera roll to the max.

This park is self-described as the "only Disney park themed to the myths and legends of the sea," adding extra intrigue to the experience. You'll find the Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Port Discovery, Fantasy Springs, Lost River Delta, Arabian Coast, Mermaid Lagoon, and Mysterious Island.

Tokyo DisneySea's latest expansion is Fantasy Springs where you'll be immersed into the worlds of Peter Pan, Tangled, and Frozen. Plus, you can get on Journey to the Center of the Earth and 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea — which you also won't find at any other Disney park!

Disney

11. Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland features the Enchanted Storybook Castle right in the center of the park, where guests can take pictures and get immersed in the magic. The park has eight different themed areas — Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Treasure Cove, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, and Zootopia — with each offering it's own unique vibe. Some popular attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, Tron Lightcycle Power Run, and Peter Pan’s Flight.

According to their website, this park is also the most "technologically innovative" Disney theme park, so I'm sure you'll be in for some really exciting features! Plus, the Enchanted Storybook Castle is "the tallest, biggest and most interactive of all Disney castles the world over." Okay, sign me up!

Hong Kong Disneyland

12. Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland may be last on this list, but the park definitely has some incredible standout options for guests! (Plus, you know I'm never mad to be at any Disney theme park ever!)

For starters, no other Disney park has a Mystic Manor, an alternative take on the Haunted Mansion where guests are ushered inside as Henry Mystic shows visitors inside his home that's filled with antiques. Other highlights include the Iron Man Experience, Slinky Dog Spin, and Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars.

Plus, this park has stunning views throughout. The main castle is surrounded by lush, green mountains that are totally breathtaking — and totally different than anything you'd see in Orlando!

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Last year, some of us celebrated the holidays apart from our families for the first time. COVID has brought with it many changes, some of them arguably positive (like increased flexibility to work from home), some difficult (such as the realization of vastly different political and social views between family and friends), and some horrible (obviously, the health implications of a global pandemic). However, for some of us, celebrating the holidays without family members isn't exclusively due to COVID. In addition to so many of us living in different areas than our families of origin, some of us simply don't have close bonds with the people we grew up around. Sometimes, this can cause loneliness.

If you're not close with your family members, the holidays can be a difficult time. This is doubly true if you don't have a close circle of friends to call upon. But make no mistake, if this sounds like your situation, you're not alone — there are thousands of other people going through the same struggles you are. We sat down with Irad Eichler, founder of Circles, a website that connects people who are sharing similar struggles, like heartbreak, grief, or loneliness. Here are some of Eichler's tips for coping — and even thriving! — during the holiday season when you're not planning on spending it with your family, for one reason or another.

Don't Fall For "Perfect Families" On Social Media

Laura Chouette

The first VERY important step to having a joyous holiday season when you're going it alone is to stop believing the narrative that others' family situations are perfect, Eichler says.

"Remember people only post a moment in time, and only the moments when they look their happiest and best."

In addition to the fact that everything you see on social media is curated for the 'gram, it's also important to remember that by focusing on what others have and you lack, you risk failing to see the great things at play in your own life.

"These holiday periods can become a time of focusing on who and what we don't have, rather than who or what we do, and can cause a negative spiral into depressing and dreadful feelings of inadequacy," says Eichler.

Gratitude is the reason for the season, after all. So instead of only seeing the negative, try some gratitude journal prompts to help you focus on what's actually really wonderful about your life right now.

Make An Effort To Deepen New Connections

Joel Muniz

While it may seem like everyone has friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, that doesn't mean no one is available for deepening a blossoming relationship or new friendship.

"Make a list of people you can or would like to connect with, and try to reach out to at least one of them," advises Eichler.

Reaching out doesn't have to mean a big plan or an hour-long conversation. Even a quick text letting a friendly coworker know you're thinking about them can go a long way toward deepening the relationship and moving it in the direction of closer friendship.

Don't have an acquaintance in mind? Then it's time to make new acquaintances. What's more in line with the Christmas spirit than attending a Meetup or event full of people eager to make new friends?

"Join groups with similar interests to yours, such as hiking, baking, or games. Push your boundaries and be brave - you might find new people who have much in common with you."

Give Back

Priscilla Du Preez

The holiday season is a great time to focus on giving back to your community, and coincidentally, acts of generosity and kindness are known to reduce loneliness and help people feel happier. One study found that knowing a few of your neighbors and doing small acts of kindness for them — such as cheering them up, listening to them, mowing their lawn, providing advice about local business recommendations and job opportunities, and chatting over the fence — was statistically correlated with feeling less lonely and having a lower risk of depression.

Helping out elderly neighbors can be a particularly gratifying way to give back.

"Notice older lonely people in your neighborhood or community who might have no family at all, and offer to help them," says Eichler. "These can become mutually meaningful connections, and help you 'adopt' a grandparent."

Connect With Others Online

Thought Catalog

Finally, use the Internet for its highest and best purpose: to connect people. Whether you're using Meetup to find in-person events, digital forums for having conversations about special interests, or programs like Circle for getting support from others in your situation, the opportunities to create new connections are practically endless.

"There are many interest groups that can be found digitally, where or any person can connect with others in the same life stage, going through the same challenges, or who would like to explore the same interests," Eichler states. "Meaningful connections can be formed easily in these circumstances. The Internet enables us to find and connect to people all over the world who fit this, and to whom we can become more easily attached, as we are able to find people with the exact interests that energize us."

If you're struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Connect with our digital community of makers and creatives here at Brit+Co by following us on IG and signing up for our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

With fall in full swing, it's safe to say you may have already taken trips to a local pumpkin patch or made your way to a haunted house (or two) for Halloween. However, if you're looking for a perfect quaint fall getaway, then add Lake Geneva to the top of your list! Located in Wisconsin, Lake Geneva — not to be confused with the similarly named Swiss body of water — is a gorgeous midwest town located right next to the stunning, sprawling Geneva Lake. You'll find numerous hotels, local restaurants, boutique and shops throughout the city, offering up plenty to do.

Not sure where to start? Luckily for you, I took a trip to Lake Geneva last month, and I've rounded up a quick guide for where (and what) you'll want to check out during your visit.

PS: If you can't make it this fall, just imagine the winter wonderland you'll find this winter, or the summer oasis you'll savor all summer!

Where To Stay In Lake Geneva

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

There are so many hotels to stay at in Lake Geneva, but there are definitely a few that really standout properties you should consider during your visit!

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is luxurious — yet somehow wonderfully quaint — property located an hour from Chicago that's great for your fall getaway. You'll find standard rooms and suites alongside a plethora of dining options and amenities to utilize during your stay including an indoor and outdoor pool, golf courses, a fitness center, a spa, and an on-site trolley. Plus, the resort has packages for the fall available where you can receive free rounds of golf during your stay on The Brute or The Highlands courses. Might I suggest sending the boys on a golfing spree while you and the girls savor the spa? 😉

Maxwell Mansion

Maxwell Mansion

Book lovers, this one's for you! The Maxwell Mansion is a boutique hotel that's two blocks away from Geneva Lake. The historic mansion has 28 rooms, some of which are inspired by historic figures such Emily Bronte, Charlotte Bronte, Louisa May Alcott, Jane Austen, General Grant, and Virginia Woolf. You'll also find a hidden speakeasy that's open to resort guests, and it's definitely worth checking out if you have some free time. Otherwise, you can find an indoor bar or grab a drink at the seasonally open tiki bar by the pool!

Warning: This hotel is adults only, so it's best suited for a romantic getaway or a girls' trip!

The Abbey Resort

The Abbey Resort

For a more full-service experience, The Abbey Resort is a great option for families and solo travelers. Aside from spacious rooms, the property has indoor and outdoor pools, live music, an entertainment center, and a 35,000 square-foot spa. The Avani spa is absolutely a highlight at this property, too — you can book a massage, manicure, pedicure, hair and makeup services depending on what you're interested in. Outside of all that, the resort is simply stunning, making it an even better spot to enjoy the fall foliage and take some totally Instagram-worthy photos.

Where To Eat In Lake Geneva

Instagram/@pier_290

While you'll eat lots of cheese curds (and cheese in general, let's be real) in Lake Geneva, you'll probably want to swing by a restaurant for a more hearty meal. Here are some top options to add to your reservations!

Pier 290

You can't visit Lake Geneva without dining alongside Geneva Lake, and Pier 290 is the city's only lakeside restaurant! While the view alone has plenty of allure, the menu loaded with familiar favorites from cheese curds to lobster rolls. Plus, if you stop by on the weekend, you'll be able to enjoy some awesome live music as you eat!

Instagram/@soprabistro

Sopra

If you're craving Italian food, then you'll definitely want to head on over to Sopra. This Italian-American bistro located on main street is home to scrumptious eats including fish, pastas, salads, and more. A majority of the menu items have unique names — I'm looking at you, "donald from delhi" — adding a little extra fun and flair to your dining experience. So grab a "b positive" cocktail (blood orange vodka, club soda, splash of blood orange juice), and enjoy your evening!

The Abbey

240 West

Chow down on locally sourced ingredients at The Abbey Resort's 240 West Restaurant. Chef Noah Gumustekin curated a selection of dishes from pappardelle to a grilled ribeye that'll get your mouth watering at the thought. Plus, if you're staying on the property, you can eat to your heart's content and make your way to a lovely night's sleep in no time!

What To Do In Lake Geneva

Instagram/@cruiselakegeneva

Go On A Mail Cruise

Looking to actually get out on the lake itself? Lake Geneva Cruise Line hosts a US mailboat tour where you can sit on a boat as employees deliver mail to over 75 homes around the lake. During the two hour tour you'll learn all about the different mansions on the lake, plus some fun facts about Lake Geneva in general! This is a must-do for first-time visitors!

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Visit Yerkes Observatory

Science lovers will want to take a trip over to Yerkes Observatoryfor all things space. The historic building is home to the world's largest refracting telescope (wow!), alongside plenty of other exhibits which you can browse at your own leisure. If you're looking for a more guided experience, the observatory offers tours to help you understand what the heck you're actually observing.

VisitLakeGeneva.com

Walk Along The Shore Path

You should totally take some time out of your busy itinerary to walk the shore path around Geneva Lake. The entire path is over 20 miles — which would take you almost all day to complete in its entirety — but you can just start and end wherever you'd like to get a gorgeous view of the lake and the larger-than-life mansions. The best part? It's free and open to the public, so you can stroll around at any time.

Lake Geneva Cooking School

Take A Cooking Class

If you're looking to spend time like a local in Lake Geneva, then you'll want to register for a class at Lake Geneva School of Cooking. Join Chef John Bogan and his team as you participate in a hands-on cooking class alongside other locals and vacation go-ers. You can browse the classes offered online and pick one that suits your palate, whether that's a meat-driven dinner or a perfect pasta dish. Classes are priced at $150 per person, so it's a bit on the expensive side, but think of it this way: this experience goes beyond the class! You can cook this menu over and over again at home, remembering the fabulous time you had in Lake Geneva.

Hill Valley Dairy

Try Some Local Cheese

You can't visit Wisconsin without trying some local cheese. Head on over to Hill Valley Dairy to get your hands — and taste buds — on locally produced cheeses. Once you figure out what you like, you can buy them to take home with you, so you can enjoy them even after you leave Lake Geneva! And who doesn't want more cheese in their lives?

Why is Lake Geneva so famous?

VisitLakeGeneva.com

Lake Geneva is famous given all its fine dining, larger-than-life mansions, and absolutely beautiful body of water. Additionally, this quaint town is also in a pristine location located only an hour away from Chicago, making it an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and be a little more in tune with nature.

On top of that, plenty of travelers compare Lake Geneva to more expensive destinations across the globe, from Lake Comoto Newport. This lets you get all the beauty and luxury of those bucket list towns without the high price tags!

How do I spend a day in Lake Geneva?

VisitLakeGeneva.com

When it comes to activities, Lake Geneva has plenty to offer! Whether you're simply walking the shore path, indulging in delicious locally grown dinners, or taking a cruise around the lake, you'll find fun everywhere you turn! And just because this is a lake town, doesn't mean you have to be outdoorsy. You can cater your experience based on your interests, including relaxing in one of the lovely luxury hotels.

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Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"

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