We don’t always have the time for a weekend getaway or a lengthy vacation. But fall is such a wonderful and beautiful time to take a road trip. So, BUCKLE UP, let’s enjoy a fall, local DAY TRIP! I am sharing 5 of my favorite fall day trips! Of course, feel free to turn any of these day trips into an overnight!
5 Fall Day Trips
My family loves a good road trip! We are always looking for easy day trips and since fall is our favorite season, we are ready for a few fall day trips!
SOLVANG
Solvang is known for its Danish-style architecture and many wineries. Great places to visit include Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, The Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum and The Old Mission Santa Inés. And definitely do not forget to try the Danish pastries!
MUST SEES:
- Little Mermaid Fountain
- Five windmills
- The giant red clog
- Fun shops to support
WRIGHTWOOD
Wrightwood is located in San Bernardino County, California and it sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet. This charming town is a wonderful place for those of you that enjoy hiking and outdoor space.
MUST DO:
GRIFFITH PARK
Griffith Park is five times the size of New York’s Central Park. Griffith Park was designated as a historic-cultural monument in 2009.
MUST DO:
- Travel Town
- Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round (closed for repairs)
- Play at Shane’s Inspiration
MORRO BAY
Morro Bay is a coastal city and is known for Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach. Morro Bay is known for lagoons, trails and a bird-rich saltwater marsh. Morro Bay State Park’s Museum of Natural History is a fun way to get to know the area and local Native American culture.
MUST SEES:
- “The Rock” – The Morro Bay volcanic rock
- Sea Otters
- Tidelands Playground
- Cloisters Community Park
- World’s Largest Chess Set – Embarcadero at Centennial Parkway
- Giovanni’s Fish Market
SANTA BARBARA
Another coastal town, Santa Barbara is known for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs that reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage. Also known for local wines and great restaurants on State Street.
MUST DO:
- Mission Santa Barbara museum
- Santa Barbara Zoo
Buckle Up! Let’s Get Local
I hope you and your family can enjoy one of these local, fall day trips. Looking for even more fall fun? Make sure to check out our 2023 Guide to Apple Picking!
