Fall Day Trips from Auburn: Gardens, Mountains, and a Quieter Coastline

Fall is one of the best seasons to plan a quick trip from Auburn. With cooler weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of scenic destinations within a short drive, it’s the perfect time to explore. Here are some top picks for your fall weekend adventures.

1. Callaway Gardens (Pine Mountain, GA)

Just over an hour from Auburn, Callaway Gardens is one of the most popular fall day-trip destinations. Each autumn, the gardens transform with their Pumpkins at Callaway festival, featuring a corn maze, pumpkin displays, and the after-dark “Glow by Night” experience in the Enchanted Pumpkin Forest. Families can enjoy seasonal treats, hayrides, and photo ops. Beyond the festival, Callaway’s trails and bike paths are perfect for seeing fall foliage, and the Butterfly Center offers an educational stop to learn about Monarch migration.

More Info Here

Tips:

• Visit earlier in the season to fully enjoy daylight before the glow events begin

• Buy tickets ahead, especially for weekends, since Pumpkins is a very popular draw

• Plan your route so you can catch multiple garden areas in one trip (but don’t try to rush everything)

2. A Quieter Beach Escape

The Gulf Coast might not be the first place you think of for fall, but this is actually one of my family's favorite times to go. Beaches like Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, 30A, and Destin are less crowded once summer tourists head home, and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the water without the sweltering heat. You can take long, peaceful walks on the beach or bike rides, grab fresh seafood at local spots, and enjoy lower lodging prices if you want to extend your trip into a weekend. Fall also means fewer lines at attractions and more space to relax.

Tips for Visiting:

• Plan your beach walks for early morning or sunset when the weather is most comfortable

• Pack snacks or pick up fresh seafood to enjoy as a picnic on the sand

• Check local event calendars - many Gulf towns host seafood festivals and small concerts in the fall

3. North Georgia Mountains

About three hours north, the North Georgia mountains offer some of the best fall scenery in the Southeast. The towns of Blue Ridge and Helen are especially popular this time of year. Blue Ridge is known for its apple orchards, craft breweries, and hiking trails with sweeping mountain views. Helen transforms into a Bavarian-style alpine village and is famous for its Oktoberfest celebrations, complete with polka music, German food, and seasonal festivities. This trip is ideal if you want cool mountain air, fall colors, and a fun change of pace.

Tips for Visiting:

• Visit in mid- to late October for peak fall foliage colors

• Bring comfortable shoes for exploring trails and small-town streets

• Stop at a roadside orchard or farm stand for fresh apples and cider

4. Chewacla State Park (Auburn)

For a quick getaway close to home, Chewacla State Park is a hidden gem. Just minutes from downtown Auburn, Chewacla offers hiking and biking trails, a small lake for kayaking and fishing, and a scenic waterfall that is especially beautiful framed by fall colors. Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in nature without the long drive. It’s also a perfect spot for a last-minute outing when you want a taste of fall outdoors but only have a few hours to spare.

Tips:

• Pack a picnic and enjoy the park’s tables or spread a blanket near the water

• Bring your camera - the waterfall and trails are perfect for fall photos

• Try a weekday visit if you want quieter trails with fewer visitors

Why Fall Trips Work

Cooler air, lighter crowds, and seasonal events make fall the best time for day trips. Whether you want to wander glowing pumpkin trails, dip your toes in the sand, sip cider in the mountains, or simply enjoy a short hike close to home, Auburn is perfectly placed for fall adventures.