East Texas Fall Getaways: Where to Explore This Season
There’s just something magical about fall in East Texas. The air turns crisp, the piney woods show off their autumn colors, and small towns come alive with festivals, pumpkin patches, and comfort food that feels like a hug on a plate. If you’ve been craving a getaway filled with charm, scenery, and a little adventure, fall is the perfect season to hit the backroads of East Texas.
Here’s your guide to the best East Texas fall getaways—whether you’re looking for a family adventure, a romantic escape, or just a quiet weekend to soak in the season.
East Texas Fall Getaways
Scenic Drives & Fall Foliage
East Texas is famous for its towering pines and hardwoods, and come late October to early November, they burst into warm shades of red, gold, and orange.
- Piney Woods Byway – A leisurely drive with rolling hills, small towns, and plenty of photo-worthy stops.
- Texas Forest Trail – A historic driving route that winds through forests, lakes, and charming communities.
👉 Tip: Pack a thermos of cider, your favorite playlist, and plan to stop often—you’ll find hidden gems along the way.
Small-Town Charm & Cozy Stays
If fall had a hometown, it would be in East Texas. Our small towns are full of history, character, and a cozy pace of life that makes them perfect for a seasonal getaway.
- Jefferson – Known as the “Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas,” Jefferson offers antique shopping, historic inns, and even ghost tours in October.
- Mineola – A railroad town with a charming downtown full of boutiques, coffee shops, and seasonal events.
- Cabins & Airbnbs – From log cabins tucked away in the piney woods to lakeside cottages, East Texas has no shortage of cozy retreats.
👉 Looking to book? This is where having a travel agent comes in handy—I can help you find the perfect spot for a romantic weekend or a family getaway.
Fall Festivals & Local Fun
Fall in East Texas means festivals that celebrate everything from roses to yams.
- Texas Rose Festival (Tyler) – Parades, coronations, and the stunning Rose Garden at its peak.
- East Texas Yamboree (Gilmer) – One of Texas’ oldest festivals, complete with parades, carnival rides, and yam pie.
- Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes – From YesterLand Farm to small family-owned patches, there’s plenty of fall fun for kids and kids at heart.
👉 Pro tip: Bring along a fall-scented wax melts for your trip—there’s nothing like melting some “Pineywoods Pumpkin Patch” when you get back to your cabin at night.
Outdoor Adventures
Cooler weather makes fall the best time to explore East Texas’ great outdoors.
- Tyler State Park – Miles of hiking trails, canoeing, and picnics under a canopy of autumn color.
- Caddo Lake – Paddle through cypress trees draped in Spanish moss—it’s like stepping into another world.
- Davy Crockett National Forest – Perfect for camping under star-filled skies.
👉 Family tip: Pack marshmallows and plan a campfire evening. Nothing says fall like s’mores under the stars.
Wineries & Comfort Eats
Fall and comfort food go hand-in-hand, and East Texas delivers.
- East Texas Wineries – Sip local wines on crisp afternoons in Canton or along the East Texas Wine Trail.
- BBQ & Catfish Joints – No East Texas trip is complete without a plate of smoky BBQ or fried catfish.
- Sweet Treats – Pumpkin bread, pecan pie, and hot apple cider from local bakeries are worth the stop.
Unique Fall Experiences
Looking for something extra memorable?
- Historic Jefferson Train Rides – The Jefferson Railway offers themed rides in October.
- Haunted Tours – Small towns love sharing their ghostly legends this time of year.
- Fall Craft Markets – Shop handmade goods, seasonal décor, and East Texas-made candles (perfect souvenirs!).
Why East Texas in the Fall?
From the fiery colors of the Piney Woods to the friendly charm of our small towns, East Texas is made for fall getaways. Whether you’re sipping cider, wandering a pumpkin patch, or cozying up in a cabin, you’ll find the season is best enjoyed right here at home.
Ready to plan your East Texas fall getaway? Let me help you put together the perfect trip—from charming stays to unique experiences. And if you want to bring a little piece of East Texas home, don’t forget to check out my fall scent collection, inspired by the places and scents of our region.
East Texas Fall Getaways: Where to Explore This Season
