The leaves are changing, so many of us have been craving autumn getaways. The good news is that there are a lot of the best places to visit in the fall that aren't far from home. In fact, many of them are less than a two-hour drive away! Here are some of our favorite day trips that won't break your bank account:

Snow Mountain Ranch, Colorado

Colorado is a great place to visit in the fall. The weather is just right, and there are plenty of things to do.

Snow Mountain Ranch is one of those places that you can go enjoy with your family or friends. They have lots of activities for everyone! You can hike, bike, or ride horses here. There are also wagon tours where you can learn about Colorado's history while taking in the beautiful views around you. In addition to all these activities, there’s also tons of wildlife that live at Snow Mountain Ranch so make sure your camera is charged before coming out here!

Taos, New Mexico

Taos, New Mexico, is a small town located in northern New Mexico that is home to the Taos Pueblo, a Native American community that dates back hundreds of years. It has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is the home of St. Francisco de Asis church, one of the most photographed places in America.

Another attraction that Taos boasts is its art scene - If you're interested in seeing some local artists' studios and galleries, Taos has it all! Artists have been drawn there for generations because of its beautiful landscape and interesting light. You can find any type of art you want here—from traditional paintings to photography to sculpture—and there are always new artists popping up all over town so keep your eyes peeled for hidden gems!

The Catskills, New York

The Catskills are a mountain range located in Upstate New York. The Catskills are popular for skiing and hiking, with many resorts and hotels located throughout the area. If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to enjoy fall weather this is your spot. Don't forget to visit either Hunter Mountain or Windham Mountain Resort. Both offer great views of fall leaves, as well as challenging terrain for those who want it.

Redwood National Park, California

Redwood National Park is one of the most spectacular places for viewing giant redwoods. The tallest tree in the world, Hyperion, can be found here. It's also home to many other species of flora and fauna including elk, black bears, and gray whales. You can camp or stay at hotels in nearby towns like Eureka or Crescent City. There are many hiking trails throughout the park including Tall Tree Groves, Fern Canyon, and Trillium Falls.

Canaan Valley, West Virginia

Canaan Valley is a beautiful area that's perfect for hiking, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. You can also visit the state's most famous attraction, Canaan Valley Resort State Park which offers many lodging options as well. The park features scenic views of the Allegheny Mountains and a wide range of wildlife including white-tailed deer and wild turkey.

Estes Park, Colorado

Estes Park, Colorado is a small town that sits near Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is home to many hiking trails and bike paths, so if you love the outdoors this is the place for you! There are also several places where you can fish and kayak on nearby lakes. If you're looking for lodging, there are plenty of hotels in Estes Park but it can become expensive quickly depending on where you stay. There are also smaller towns within driving distance from Estes Park where accommodations will be cheaper.

Boulder, Colorado

If you're looking for a fall escape that's not too far from home, Boulder is the perfect option. The town is well-known as an arts community and has plenty of galleries to visit. There are also many great restaurants on Pearl Street Mall, as well as several parks for hiking and biking.

One of the best things about this town is its location; it's only a short drive from Denver International Airport or any other major airport in Colorado. You can stay at the University Inn & Spa or other hotels near campus if you want convenience and comfort without breaking your budget!

Umatilla National Forest, Oregon

If you're looking for a relaxing retreat in the woods, Umatilla National Forest is an ideal place to visit. The forest has over 1 million acres of land and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. It's also close enough to Portland that you can easily make it part of a weekend getaway from the city.

Boise, Idaho

If you're looking for a city that's small but still has everything you need, Boise is the perfect place. The city is home to more than 200 parks, including many greenbelts and trails that are perfect for hiking or biking. It also has a thriving arts scene with plenty of museums and galleries to explore, as well as a vibrant foodie culture.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming-Idaho-Montana

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic destinations in America, and it's well worth a visit. The park is famous for its geothermal features like geysers and hot springs, but it also offers plenty of hiking trails and wildlife to enjoy. The park is home to more than 700 species of plants and animals, including grizzly bears and wolves. And the views are breathtaking! You can see for miles in every direction, which makes for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

You don't have to spend a lot of money to have fun. There are plenty of ways to have a good time on the cheap, including doing things that are free or cheap. Visit your local zoo or farmers' market! Instead of going out to eat at fancy restaurants, try cooking some meals at home with friends and family. Carpooling is another great way to save money while getting out and about this fall season!

If you're looking to get out of the city and see some of the best autumn colors, these ideas are perfect. You can have a lot of fun without breaking the bank by choosing an affordable destination that's close to home!