Top Spots to View Fall Foliage

All across the Philadelphia region, the leaves are turning from summer green to a vibrant palate of fall reds, oranges and yellows. Grab the family and a picnic lunch and head out to make the most of the autumn colors. Here are a few of our favorite spots to view the fall foliage.

Bucks County

Delaware Canal State Park

Location: 11 Lodi Hill Road, Upper Black Eddy, PA

Revel in the brilliant fall colors while strolling the historic towpath that runs from Easton to Bristol, PA. Once trod by mule teams pulling cargo-laden boats along the canal, the 60-mile towpath is used today by people looking for exercise and recreation.

Washington Crossing Historic Park

Location: Upper Makefield Township, PA

George Washington and his troops turned the tide of the American Revolution by crossing the Delaware River here in 1776. In addition to its extensive historic significance, Washington Crossing is also known for its wonderful outdoor trails and wildlife habitat.

Chester County

Longwood Gardens

Location: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA

The lush gardens, woodlands and meadows of Longwood Gardens are a welcome sight for fall color lovers. In addition to the outdoor landscape, make sure to check out the Chrysanthemum Festival taking place in the Conservatory through November 20.

Marsh Creek State Park

Location: 675 Park Road, Downingtown, PA

The 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake is a popular destination for boaters, but the surrounding forests, fields and wetlands are packed with fantastic trails perfect for a fall excursion.

Delaware County

Brandywine River Museum

Location: 100 Creek Road, Chadds Ford, PA

The artistic talents of the Wyeth family are on full display at this picturesque museum seated along the Brandywine River. Venture outside and see the beautiful countryside that inspired Andrew Wyeth to paint his signature landscapes.

Chaddsford Winery

Location: 632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA

Nestled in the Brandywine Valley, the Chaddsford Winery is a wonderful spot for a fall excursion. Explore the lush landscape then warm up with an award-winning bottle (or two) from the winery.

Tyler Arboretum

Location: 515 Painter Road, Media, PA

Tyler Arboretum has been a refuge for tree lovers in the Philadelphia region since the days of William Penn. During autumn, its 650 acres are ablaze with seasonal color.

Montgomery County

Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary at Mill Grove

Location: 1201 Pawlings Road, Audubon, PA

Mill Grove, the home to American naturalist John James Audubon, is a haven for wildlife with a sprawling 175-acres of trails, woods and history. The woodlands are a haven for bird and leaf watchers alike.

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Location: 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, PA

Once the headquarters of General George Washington’s Revolutionary army, this wonderfully tranquil park offers trails for jogging and biking and 3,600 acres of rolling hills of autumn beauty.

Philadelphia

Forbidden Drive in the Wissahickon Gorge

Location: Easiest entry is at Valley Green Road, where it dead ends into Forbidden Drive

Forbidden Drive runs parallel to Wissahickon Creek, through the heart of Fairmount Park, and got its name when it closed to cars in the 1920s. It offers amazing walking and foliage viewing without leaving the city proper.

Morris Arboretum

Location: 100 Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia PA

With 92-acres of gardens to explore, Morris Arboretum is a spectacular setting for the beautiful colors of autumn. The historic grounds are home to thousands of plants, including gorgeous maples, dogwoods and oaks.

Schuylkill River Trail

Location Along the banks of the Schuylkill River. Multiple entry points on Kelly Drive and Martin Luther King Drive.

The twisting, turning pathway along the Schuylkill River is a fantastic spot for a brisk fall walk. In addition to great fall foliage, the river trail features spectacular views of Boathouse Row, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the city skyline.