These 7 US small towns will take your fall romance to another level 

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As the leaves start to turn and that cozy sweater weather rolls in, there’s something about fall that just screams romance. And while cabin getaways and beach sunsets have their charm, there’s magic hidden in the US’s small towns waiting to be discovered. 

Whether it’s the Bavarian vibes of Helen, Georgia, or the old-world charm of Mackinac Island, we’ve got some top picks to give your US romantic getaways a golden autumnal twist. We feel lucky enough that we’ve been able to experience those and can now share the seven must-visit US towns to fan those romantic flames this fall.

1. Bonners Ferry, Idaho

There is no other way to start this list than with a small US town that holds a very special place in my (Marie) heart. As some of you may know from our story, I lived in Bonners Ferry Idaho for a year. I went to Bonners Ferry High school and lived right in the town centre. 

Bonners Ferry is, fortunately or unfortunately, a small US town that still flies under the radar, yet it’s one of the best places in the US for a fall romance trip. With about 2,500 inhabitants, my second home is quiet, niched in the middle of nature and rich in culture and outdoor activities.

During fall, downtown Bonners Ferry is filled with quaint cafes, cute boutique shops like Under The Sun and a few restaurants where you can buy local homemade treats, some even made by Kathleen, my former local coordinator!

But Bonners Ferry’s surroundings are just as interesting especially for couples who love spending time in the outdoors. During fall, we highly recommend heading to the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot moose, bears and deer among other birds and animals!

One of my favourite places in Bonners is the Pearl Theatre. This is a former church that was transformed into a theatre. I’ve seen several shows there from some of my friend splaying to real-life bands like the Shook Twins. The space perfectly fits into the fall romance vibe. 

Best for couples who: love the outdoors and need to reset.

2. Manchester, Vermont

Possibly due to fall Hallmark movies, it seems to us that fall without mentioning Vermont just sounds wrong. Vermont is one of the statement places for fall foliage, hence why it made number two on this list.

Manchester in particular is a haven for couples looking to relax in the perfect American fall vibe, just like in the movies!  

Couples who love spending time outdoors will particularly enjoy apple picking at Mad tom Orchard or heading for one of the stunning trails such as Lye Brook Falls, Bromley Mountain Trail or even The Equinox Preserve.

If the weather isn’t on your side, we highly recommend checking out indoor exhibits at the Southern Vermont Arts Center or challenging your partner to a Pinball competition at Pastime Pinball.

From Manchester’s farmers’ market to its cute Victorian style bookstores and local pet farms, you can’t go wrong with a stay in Manchester.

Best for couples who: love the Victorian style towns and want a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

3. Helen, Georgia

If you’re looking for a fall break that will make you feel like you crossed the Atlantic Ocean, then Helen, Georgia is waiting for you. This small Bavarian-style US town is niched in the mountains and will have you immersed in a Bavarian atmosphere from the second you step foot in it.

Helen is particularly suited for a romantic fall trip as it’s the perfect time for its own local Oktoberfest. Even better, Helen offers a range of fall activities for couples of all interests.

One of our favourite activities is the Georgia Mountain Coaster for a mix of adventure, adrenaline and fun together! You and your partner can also visit the Habersham Winery, hike the trails through the Chattahoochee National Forest or simply roam around the Bavarian buildings and taking it all in. You can also stop at Hoochee’s River Basket for breakfast or lunch and at Freeze Cream to get a handmade rolled ice cream!

Best for couples who: want a fall break abroad but without actually traveling abroad

4. Williams, Arizona

Williams is known as the getaway to the Grand Canyon but is also a lovely destinations for couples during fall. Surrounded by forests, this small US town immerses you in vibrant fall colours while offering a range of activities.

For animal lover couples, we highly recommend a stop at the Grand Canyon Deer Farm where you can meet elk, reindeer and other species of deer.

One of the best fall activities though, is taking a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. Established in 1901, this steam-locomotive railway takes you on a scenic route to the Grand Canyon. If hiking isn’t your thing, this is a great way to step into fall without literally stepping much.

Other highlights include driving through Bearizona, a wildlife park featuring bears, bison and wolves, spending some time at a Wild West show, and checking out the Petroglyphs one the Keyhole Sink hike. Of course, a fall getaway to Williams will also offer a range of Route 66 themed activities including checking out local distillery, neon vintage motels, and memorabilia.

Best for couples who: are looking for wildlife, adventure and Route 66 nostalgia.

5. Mackinac Island, Michigan

The vibrant fall colors on the trees of Mackinac Island’s main scenic route leave no doubt that this is one of the best small towns for romance in the fall. With a population of barely 1,000, Mackinac Island holds a special place on this list. 

Located on the coast, it offers stunning views on the lake, and is surrounded by golden sand beaches and East Coast style beach side buildings.

Fall romance is on every corner of Mackinac Island. With romantic horse- drawn carriages through vibrant fall colors streets, cute beachfront lodges and its famous Fort Mackinac, the island is perfect for romance throughout fall.

While on Mackinac Island with your partner, check out its state Park along with the local Mackinac Island fudge for a tasty break. With bike rides, aerial tours and hiking trails all around, visiting Mackinac Island in the fall is like pausing life for a second to reconnect and spend quality time together.

Best for couples who: need to press pause and want to step into a different time.

6. Skaneateles, New York

The East coast does not cease to amaze us with Skaneateles being another fall destinations couples won’t want to miss. With leaves turning bright yellow and red, Skaneateles is located right on the Finger Lakes. 

This small town offers the perfect fall atmosphere with red brick buildings lining up, boutique shops, cruise boats on the lake and water boardwalks for romantic peaceful walks together.

More than its looks, it is the atmosphere in Skaneateles that makes everything perfect during fall. For a cute lunch with your partner, head to Doug’s Fish Fry, an institution in the town! For a relaxing stay, get pampered at Mirbeau inn and Spa. Wine tasting and Victorian houses touring are also among the activities that are perfect for fall.

Of course, Skaneateles is also famous for its yearly Halloween Witches Walk which is great for a couple Halloween activity during your stay.

Best for couples who: are looking to stay busy while in a relaxing atmosphere

7. Brevard, North Carolina

With a Twilight Tour and Halloween Fest, Brevard, known for being home to white squirrels (yes, true), is undoubtably a great destination for fall romance. And trust us, you won’t get bored here!

In Brevard, fall usually rhyme with waterfall hikes, especially to Looking Glass Falls and festivals to get you in an autumnal mood. Surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, Brevard is a lovely but bustling small US town with local shops, galleries and restaurants that will keep any couple busy!

For additional romance, hiking to a local cascade surrounded by fall colors is perfect. Rainbow Falls is actually one of the most romantic places near Brevard that we recommend visiting as it is perfect for a picnic with your sweetheart.

All together, we’re not surprised that Brevard can be so romantic in the fall. After all, it’s located only about one hour fromAsheville, which is a hub for eloping!

Best for couples who: are happy hiking to waterfalls.

Final thoughts

There’s a special kind of romance in the air when autumn arrives, and these small US towns have captured it perfectly. From the waterfall hikes in Brevard to the timeless beauty of my second home, Bonners Ferry, every location on this list brings its own flavor of fall magic.

It’s not just about the places but the experiences they offer – the chance to reconnect, rediscover, and make unforgettable memories. So, if you’re looking for a fresh, romantic adventure this season, consider this your go-to guide. Grab your loved one, hit the road, and let these towns work their autumnal charm.

If you’re looking for further romantic destinations, check out our favourite romantic Greek Islands and these beautiful Oklahoma cabins for a romantic getaway you won’t forget.