When we think of the best leaf-peeping destinations in the country, our thoughts probably turn to the winding country roads, endless forests, and sweeping mountain ranges of New England. While some of the most breathtaking fall foliage I’ve ever seen was while living in Vermont and Connecticut, I’m often left in awe at the colorful autumn landscapes in Pennsylvania. So it comes as little surprise that the top leaf-peeping destination in the U.S. is in Pennsylvania.

Bucks County snagged the top spot of the best leaf-peeping destinations in the United States in 2024 in a list that saw North Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada; Bretton Woods, New Hampshire; Albany, New York, and Payette River Scenic Byway in Idaho round out the top five. Stowe, Vermont, the only New England state to get a nod for its fall foliage this year, came in at number six.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or kid-free time, you’ll find a full menu of activities and events in the county that sits around 30 miles from Philadelphia and 75 miles from New York City, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway.

For a quintessential autumn experience, head to one of the charming Main Streets in Bucks County, including those in Bristol, Doylestown, Newtown, and Yardley. New Hope is an idyllic fall destination, with a downtown brimming with shops and restaurants and a bridge that will take you over the Delaware River to Lambertville, New Jersey. Climb aboard one of the fall foliage train rides with the New Hope Railroad, or explore the shops at Peddler’s Village, which hosts events, including a scarecrow festival and scarecrow-making workshops, throughout the season.

Autumn and scenic strolls go hand-in-hand, and Bucks County has no shortage of parks for a leisurely walk. Bring your hammer to tap the rocks (and admire the fall foliage) at Ringing Rocks Park in Upper Black Eddy; meander along a pretty path at Silver Lake Nature Center in Bristol, or enjoy a picnic, surrounded by the autumn colors, at Core Creek Park (pictured above), the latter of which has a playground and trails.

Start planning your leaf-peeping adventures by visiting the official website of Visit Bucks County, or stop by the Facebook page of Visit Bucks County, PA.

Where is your favorite place to go leaf-peeping in Pennsylvania? Have you been to Bucks County during the peak of the fall foliage? Let us know in the comments! You might want to spend the night or a weekend; book a stay at a local Vrbo. The fun doesn’t stop with a little leaf peeping. Start packing your calendar with some of the best fall activities in Pennsylvania.