From overnight stays to local dining, here’s what makes fall road trippers tick.
Every autumn, scenic byways across the country come alive. Travelers pile into cars, pack weekend bags, and set out in search of fall foliage. Not surprisingly, online searches for “scenic byways” peak during this season, making it an important time of year for byway organizations and their partners.
To better understand who these travelers are and how communities can prepare for them, Corridor Solutions partnered with the National Scenic Byway Association to survey 400 people planning fall road trips in 2025. The results offer a clear message: fall travelers are enthusiastic, they’re ready to spend, and they’re looking for more than just pretty views.
Beyond a Sunday Drive
While some leaf-peepers stay close to home, the majority are willing to travel farther. More than half said their trips usually cover 25–100 miles, and nearly 40% go beyond 100 miles. That means communities along byways have the opportunity to reach not just locals but also regional visitors traveling from neighboring states and metro areas.
Even more encouraging, these aren’t quick day trips. Almost two-thirds of respondents said they stay two to six nights on their fall drives. For byway communities, that translates into overnight lodging, meals, and activities that can significantly boost local economies.
How Travelers Plan
Planning a fall trip is a blend of old and new habits. Word of mouth remains the most influential tool – 60% of travelers rely on recommendations from family and friends. But digital platforms play an almost equal role. Half of respondents said they use social media and another half use websites or blogs. Nearly as many turn to visitor centers.
One trend worth noting: 21% reported using AI tools to plan their trips. It’s still a minority, but it shows that travelers are experimenting with new ways of gathering information. For byway organizations, this reinforces the importance of keeping digital content fresh, accessible, and optimized so it surfaces whether people are searching Google, scrolling Instagram, or asking AI for trip suggestions.
An Appetite for New Experiences
Fall color may be timeless, but most travelers don’t want to do the same thing every year. While 17% stick to the same destinations, the vast majority either prefer to explore new places (44%) or mix favorites with new stops (39%).
That’s good news for lesser-known byways. Travelers are actively looking for fresh experiences. Communities that highlight their unique stories – whether it’s a historic downtown, a seasonal festival, or a local dining tradition – can attract new visitors who might otherwise default to a familiar route.
More Than the Leaves
Scenic driving is the centerpiece, but the survey shows travelers want a complete fall experience. Dining at local restaurants, exploring small towns, and hiking were all cited as top activities. Festivals, wineries, farms, and shopping for local crafts also rank high.
In other words, travelers are just as excited about stopping as they are about driving. This opens the door for communities to showcase their restaurants, shops, and cultural events as part of the fall color experience. Byways that market “drive + experience” packages will have a competitive edge.
Families – and More
Fall trips are often a family tradition. Over 60% of respondents travel with family members. Couples and groups of friends also make up a sizable share, which means byway organizations have the chance to market to multiple audiences at once. A family-friendly festival, a romantic inn getaway, or a girlfriends’ weekend in a small town could all fit under the umbrella of fall color travel.
Spending Potential
The economic opportunity is clear. Nearly half of respondents expect to spend $100–$199 per day, while one-third plan to spend $200 or more. Multiplied across several nights, this adds up quickly for local businesses. For byways, it’s a reminder to connect the dots for visitors – help them see the value of staying longer, dining locally, and exploring shops, farms, and cultural attractions along the route.
The October Peak
Timing matters. While fall color seasons vary by geography, October dominates as the month when most people plan trips. September follows at 19%, and a smaller group stretch their trips into November. For communities, this means October should be the centerpiece of fall marketing, but opportunities exist to extend the season on both ends with early-fall promotions and late-season activities.
Turning Insights into Action
This survey confirms what many byway communities already know: fall travelers are not only drawn by the colors, they are also seeking authentic local experiences. They want to stay overnight, spend money, and explore what makes each community unique.
For byway organizations, the challenge and opportunity are the same – make sure your stories, your businesses, your visitor services, and maps are ready when the crowds arrive. Whether through digital campaigns, festival promotions, or partnerships with lodging and dining, the goal is to turn the fleeting beauty of fall into lasting community benefit.
As travelers hit the road this October, byways across the country have a chance to remind them that these routes are more than just drives – they are journeys into the heart of real America.