Best Sights of Fall Foliage and Flowers in New York

When fall comes to New York, there are plenty of places to watch the leaves turn colors and the fall flowers bloom, but where will you have the most spectacular views? Granted, there are thousands of parks and historic locations in New York state, but some of the best places to view fall foliage are right under your nose. You don't have to walk far to get great atmosphere and peaceful environments, so check out some of these amazing autumn locations in New York.

Western New York, for example, is most beautiful during the early days of October, and you're bound to see plenty of fall foliage if you drive through the routes and interstates that surround the Chautauqua-Allegheny region. Drive around Chautauqua Lake from Jamestown toward Bermus Point, where you can pick up the Seaway Trail on Rt. 5. Greigsville and Mount Morris are also beautiful during autumn, and you might get the chance to see some unique flowers on your journey.

Early birds, however, might enjoy fall foliage in early September by heading into the Catskills. John Boyd Thacher Park near Albany is a great place to start, or you can follow Rt. 23 from Grand Gorge toward Cairo. Hunter Mountain is a great place to stop and stretch your legs for a bit, and if you have time you can take a chair lift to view fall foliage from the air.

The middle of October is a great time for fall foliage in the Niagara region of New York, particularly as you draw farther away from the water. Humidity is higher here, and you'll find different blossoms and shrubs in this area from what you would see in other regions of NY. Or, if you prefer a view of the water, you can drive along Rt. 104 toward Lewiston, or you can follow the Niagara River and watch the fisherman work among the beautiful embankment.