A Leaf Peeper, by informal definition, is someone who travels to view and photograph the fall foliage in areas where leaves change colors in autumn. Western and Central New York are wonderful areas to explore for leaf peeping. The Inn at 28 is the perfect, centrally located, place to stay to take in the most colorful season of the year.
Chestnut Ridge Park has the “eternal flame” and a great mix of evergreens and deciduous trees, with sumac for some ruby red accents. In Niagara County just north of Niagara Falls, Whirlpool State Park has fantastic views, with a patchwork of colors, down into the gorge and the swirling whirlpool in Niagara River. Autumn is also a great time to explore the change of seasons at Allegany State Park in the Enchanted Mountains.
If a waterfalls are your thing, Watkins Glen State Park, Letchworth State Park or Ithaca, NY are perfect stops for you! The Watkins Glen stream trail features 19 waterfalls. The gorge passes the waterfalls and runs through Cavern Cascade, providing beautiful views. Letchworth State Park, sometimes called the Grand Canyon of the East, lures visitors with spectacular views of the Genesee River Gorge and three magnificent waterfalls along the way. The park’s beauty is captivating especially in the fall when each overlook becomes a photographers dream. “Ithaca is GORGES!” There are over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles of Ithaca. Carved by glaciers, Ithaca and the surrounding area gorges were formed millions of years ago. If you are looking for the best waterfalls and fall views in New York, these locations are a must.
Watkins Glen Waterfall
Wine lovers will enjoy harvest season in New York State. In the Finger Lakes, partake in a glass of wine while taking in the view and possibly a sunset over Seneca Lake. Sample world-class wines along Keuka Lake. Tour Lake Erie Wine Country with 23 wineries and more than 30,000 vineyard acres along a 50-mile Lake Erie wine trail. There are also many breweries and cider makers to experience in our area.
In addition to the fall foliage, you can experience apple picking, haunted houses, cider, donuts, and so much more! While picking out the perfect pumpkin or attending a fall festival, this season in Western and Central New York in will exceed your expectations.
You can see a fall foliage report for the level of change here.