10 Underrated Destinations to Jump-Start Your Fall

Just because summer is coming to a close doesn't mean your vacation has to end. Take advantage of fall's cooler temperatures, lighter crowds and excellent travel deals and spend a memorable weekend or longer in one of these underrated destinations.

Located in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg owes a lot of its charm to its German heritage. Visitors can tour the Pioneer Museum to learn all about the city's history and experience the culture for themselves during Fredericksburg's annual Oktoberfest celebration, which is among the best in the U.S. The region is also known for its exceptional wineries.

Fall is undoubtedly the best time of year to visit Portland, Maine as the scenic coastal city hosts a handful of food, wine and beer festivals, including September's Belgian Beer Fest and October's Harvest on the Harbor. Autumn arrivals can also look forward to a burgeoning arts scene and some of the best seafood in New England.

Springdale is a small town of fewer than 600 people located just outside of Utah's Zion National Park. Forbes named it one of the 20 prettiest towns in the U.S. and its location makes it a phenomenal fall destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

If you've got football fever, look no further than Green Bay, Wisconsin. Even if you aren't a Cheesehead, you'll want to cross legendary Lambeau Field off of your sports bucket list before heading to charming downtown and eventually venturing out to explore greater Green Bay, where visitors will uncover excellent craft breweries and nature opportunities.

Head to Burlington, Vermont this autumn to pick some pumpkins and apples and sample delicious cider or plan your visit around October's Vermont International Film Festival. Dine and shop the Church Street Marketplace downtown or stop by Shelburne Museum just south of the city to explore one of the country's most diverse collections of art, history and architecture.

Perhaps best known as the birthplace of Walmart, Bentonville offers much more beyond the Walmart Museum, including art and history museums, historic sites and an emerging music scene. It's also a cycler's paradise, boasting dozens of miles of trails and paved pathways and hosting special cycling events such as September's Fall Square 2 Square.

You don't have to be crazy about bourbon to fall in love with Louisville this time of year. The inviting river city is one of the best for innovative Southern cuisine and craft cocktails and offers a slew of unique attractions including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Fall visitors can also experience The Big Four Bridge Art Festival along the waterfront in September or hold off for November's Breeders' Cup at hallowed Churchill Downs.

Not ready to give up on the warm weather just yet? Check out the coastal city of Solana Beach just 30 minutes north of San Diego. It's home to nearly two miles of calming coastline as well as charming shops, restaurants and nearby hiking opportunities. Whatever you do, don't skip town before catching a picturesque sunset at Fletcher Cove Park.

Similar to Springdale, Troutdale stands out for its convenient proximity to one of the country's premier natural attractions, the Columbia River Gorge. The canyon is at its best during the fall months when the tree leaves surrounding the breathtaking Multnomah Falls and other popular sites change color. Located just east of Portland, Troutdale is perfect for fans of the outdoors. Book a stay at the pet-friendly McMenamins' Edgefield Hotel to enhance your autumn visit.

Another phenomenal destination for fall travelers chasing autumn colors, Red Wing offers unrivaled history and charm. Visitors will want to hike the Barn Bluff for tremendous views of the Mississippi River and the city below as well as stop by the Pottery Museum of Red Wing to learn all about the city's clay industry.