Texas in the fall is a perfect blend of crisp weather, scenic landscapes, and festive experiences. As the summer heat fades, travelers can enjoy colorful foliage in the Hill Country, harvest festivals in small towns, and wildlife spotting across state parks. From pumpkin patches and wine trails to fall hikes and cozy cabins, this season brings charm to every corner of the state. Our fall road trip guides highlight top destinations, scenic drives, and seasonal experiences to help you plan a memorable Texas getaway filled with warmth, beauty, and adventure.
The Texas Hill Country is one of the most popular fall destinations, with golden leaves, fall festivals, and scenic routes like the Willow City Loop. East Texas offers wooded drives and peaceful lake views with vibrant foliage, while West Texas provides cooler hiking weather and star-filled skies. South Texas brings fall harvests, bird migrations, and fewer crowds. Our fall region guides help you match your interests — from wine tastings to wildlife watching — with the best locations for a beautiful seasonal trip.
Fall in Texas is packed with seasonal fun like corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hayrides, food and wine festivals, and fall foliage hikes. Events like Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, the Texas Renaissance Festival near Houston, and grape harvests in Hill Country wineries draw visitors from across the state. Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching and camping in cooler temperatures. Our road trip itineraries include the top seasonal attractions and help you plan your route around events that make fall in Texas special and photo-worthy.
Fall weather in Texas varies by region, but overall it’s one of the most comfortable times to travel. September can still feel warm, especially in South Texas, but by October and November, temperatures generally range between 60°F and 80°F during the day and drop into the 40s–60s at night. Humidity decreases, skies stay clear, and cool breezes return — ideal for hiking, patio dining, and driving scenic routes. Our guides break down weather patterns by region so you can pack smart and travel comfortably.
Absolutely. The Willow City Loop near Fredericksburg is famous for fall foliage. The drive from Lost Maples State Natural Area through Vanderpool and Leakey offers brilliant autumn colors and winding roads. East Texas’s forested highways near Tyler State Park also come alive with red, gold, and orange hues. For a broader view, a Hill Country loop from Austin to Llano to Kerrville includes historic towns, vineyards, and roadside beauty. Our fall driving guides map out these unforgettable scenic routes for a relaxed, leaf-peeping road trip.
Pack lightweight layers like long-sleeve shirts, a fleece or sweater, jeans or hiking pants, and a light jacket. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are a must for outdoor activities. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sunny days, and a camera or phone with extra storage to capture fall color. A travel mug for hot drinks, a blanket for picnics or stargazing, and a cooler for local goodies are also handy. Our fall packing checklist helps you stay cozy, prepared, and ready for adventure at every stop.
Fall is one of the best times to explore Texas state parks. Cooler temperatures and fewer bugs make for comfortable hikes, picnics, and wildlife viewing. Parks like Garner, Lost Maples, Pedernales Falls, and Bastrop showcase beautiful fall colors and seasonal events. Campgrounds tend to book quickly on weekends, so early reservations are recommended. Our fall state park guide includes trail recommendations, leaf-changing timelines, and tips for scenic photography, giving you the perfect backdrop for a peaceful autumn escape.
Definitely. Fall festivals are a highlight of the season in Texas. From Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg and Wurstfest in New Braunfels to pumpkin festivals, county fairs, and vineyard harvests across the Hill Country, there’s something festive happening every weekend. Coastal areas host seafood festivals, and cities like Austin and Dallas celebrate with food, music, and art events. Our event-focused road trip planner includes a calendar of fall happenings so you can add fun, flavor, and local culture to your journey.
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