Welcome Fall in These Vibrant Destinations
As vibrant foliage fills the trees and the temperature slowly softens into a pleasant new normal, it’s clear that autumn is all about transformation. While we embrace relief from the intensity of summer, it’s a time to slow down and take in our surroundings from a new and refreshed perspective.
There’s no better season to book a getaway off the beaten path, and at Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts, there’s a destination for every type of traveler. Pack your bags for your dream vacation, exploring fall celebrations in cities from coast to coast. Make your fall getaway your own, whether you opt for a cozy, nostalgic New England stay or a celebration of NYC’s best cuisine. As you celebrate the harvest this season, opportunity awaits for you to experience fall with a renewed sense of wonder.
Discover Autumn Nostalgia in Boston
When you think of a picture-perfect fall, chances are that you picture a place like Boston. Autumn in the Northeast calls to mind scenes of changing leaves, pulling out your favorite knitwear, and cozying up by the fire with your go-to comfort foods and drinks.
Just like Boston captures the spirit of fall, The Boxer captures the spirit of Boston. What better place to book an autumnal getaway? After checking into your modern and stylish guest room, take a moment to admire the beautiful city views seen from your window — you may even be able to spot some of Boston’s famed foliage changing colors with the season. Then, take advantage of the convenient amenities, enjoying a long, luxurious shower with your premium bath products, before putting on your plush robe and enjoying a relaxing night in.
After an evening spent recharging, it’s time to experience Boston’s best season firsthand. Each October, thousands gather at Harvard Square to watch the Head of the Charles Regatta, featuring some of the most talented rowers in the world. From thrilling races and food vendors to family-friendly activities, attend this spirited event to kick off fall like a Bostonian.
To keep the local experience going, support Boston breweries with their own independent Oktoberfest celebrations, or join in on one of the larger, multi-day parties in the city. Raise a stein to the season ahead, toasting to your city adventures.
When you stay at The Boxer, you don’t have to travel far for a bit for family-friendly fall fun. Apple picking is a great way to bond with your friends and family as you connect to the season’s abundant apple harvest. Sip on some hot apple cider as you pick to your heart’s content and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature before returning to your city accommodations.
You’ve probably worked up an appetite after a day of exploration, and Bulfinch Social, The Boxer’s on-site brasserie, will be ready to welcome you upon return. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy a modern New England meal before settling in for the night or heading out for a show at the TD Garden, just a five-minute walk away.
No trip to Boston would be complete without sampling the city’s best cuisine, and the Boston Chocolate and Pastry Tour offers a unique way to do just that. Guests can spend a sweet day guided through Boston’s most historic areas while trying desserts that originated in Boston, along with treats and secret dishes that feature a variety of international influences. If you are looking for a way to end your trip on a high note, chocolate and pastries offer a sweet finish to remember.
Travel Like a Local in New York City
New York City has something to offer every type of traveler, which is why many return again and again. The city’s allure also makes it an ideal fall destination, enchanting travelers with days spent hunting down the most vibrant foliage in the city and evenings spent exploring local go-tos.
With The Tillary as your NYC home base, you’re well within reach of many local-loved favorites. Located at the foot of the Manhattan Bridge, The Tillary offers the best of DUMBO only a 15-minute walk from your chic accommodations.
Take advantage of your location and try some of Brooklyn’s latest culinary hotspots without the summer crowds around. Strange Delight, recently named one of “the hottest new restaurants in Brooklyn”, promises a taste of New Orleans in NYC and is just a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
On the other hand, art and nature lovers will love seeing the fall foliage as they take in Madison Square Park Conservancy’s “Public Art in Public Space” exhibit. Designed to help viewers take a moment and ground themselves in the present moment, it’s the perfect opportunity to slow down and connect with the change of the season.
If you like to vacation like a local, consider coming to the city during the New York Marathon. Guests can make signs, cheer on runners, and pretend to be a New Yorker for a day. There’s no better way to experience New York’s one-of-a-kind energy.
After working up an appetite, head to the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival. This four-day annual festival showcases the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs, culinary personalities, and America’s most beloved television chefs across 80 events in Manhattan and Brooklyn. This is your one-stop shop to get a true taste of the city.
Give Summer a Proper Send-Off in Miami
Summer calendars are filled with lazy days on the water, sun-kissed skin, and relaxing vacations. We would understand if you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to it. To give summer the send-off it deserves, head to Miami Beach to soak up a bit more sun and welcome autumn with all that it brings.
Get a taste of the Mediterranean on the shores of Miami Beach when you stay at Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, offering you refined accommodations just steps away from the beach. Settle into your stylish guest room before sinking your toes in the sand to catch golden hour over the crashing waves.
After a restful sleep, sip on a cup of small-batch coffee in the cool shade of Cadillac’s oceanside palapa, Bungalow by the Sea. Next, take in the sights and the sun with a leisurely stroll along Collins Avenue, conveniently offering some of the city’s most vibrant cuisine and shopping.
The sun is a year-round draw for Miami visitors, but it’s not the only thing that attracts travelers year after year. October marks the beginning of stone crab season in Miami, and the famous South Beach Seafood Festival is the best place to celebrate it. Foodie-minded guests can enjoy VIP chef showdowns, seated dinner experiences, and more.
If seafood isn’t your cuisine of choice, look no further than Miami Spice in September, offering “dining experiences with a dash of spice.” Try Miami’s tastiest dishes at the city’s best restaurants as they showcase their best dishes from around the world with special offers and signature menus.
Take your exploration of local flavors one step further and get a true taste of Miami when you discover all the unique, in-season offerings at Lincoln Road Farmer’s Market. Because Miami’s tropical climate keeps plants warm and well-watered through the fall, you’ll come across native produce that you won’t find in traditional autumn locations, like Sea Grapes, Kaffir Limes, Ceylon Gooseberries, and more. By getting to know Miami’s harvest, you can experience the present moment in a profound way, finding an appreciation for the magic that this season will uncover.
If you’ve fallen behind on your reading goals during the hustle and bustle of the summer, fall is a great time to cozy up with a new read. The Miami Book Fair invites you to discover new authors or find inspiration to help you adopt a fresh perspective as you enter this time of transformation.
Take Your Time With a Sophisticated Stay in D.C.
If you’re craving a more sophisticated stay after summer wraps up, why not head to Washington D.C.? In this city, you can spend hours upon hours learning at the world-renowned museums, tasting the city’s finest cuisine, and indulging in an elegant hotel stay.
As soon as you step through the doors at The St. Gregory Hotel, you’ll notice an air of cosmopolitan sophistication that sets the tone for the rest of your visit. This hotel is much more than a place to rest your head. The team at The St. Gregory Hotel prides itself on offering a truly memorable stay. From the 24-hour concierge service and state-of-the-art fitness center to L’Occitane bath products and monogrammed robes, they have thought of it all.
To kick off your cultural exploration, get tickets for a show during Theatre Week — celebrating the launch of the theater season in the city with shows at low prices, a free kickoff fest, and more.
Next, take a day trip to get to know Virginia’s renowned wines with a side of history at the Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour. Not only is it a beautiful time to take in the foliage at Mount Vernon, but this tour is a perfect excuse to wine and dine in style.
Experience France’s signature refined approach to cuisine with a D.C. twist by booking a table at Ellington Park Bistro. Inspired by iconic neighborhood bistros in Paris, this modern brasserie features standout dishes like classic steak frites and branzino almondine, all with French wines to pair.
Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts offers a fall experience for every sort of traveler. From nostalgic getaways to evenings spent savoring local cuisine, there’s always something new to be discovered.