(Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

Fall is upon us, and that means it’s time to start planning out your fall foliage travels. Here in Michigan, we have plenty of incredible spots to take in the colorful fall leaves. We’re really lucky, in that sense, so have such a beautiful autumn landscape.

So, what if you want to visit an area of the state that’s isn’t an obvious one for fall colors? Maybe you would even call it a “secret” place. Well, the crew at BestLifeOnline.com has done the work for you and put together a list of the 10 best “secret places” in the U.S. to see fall foliage. “Summer’s end signals the last days of warm weather in most areas,” they state in the article. “But it also means the return of fall’s dazzling colors in full display as trees begin to turn for the season. You can plan entire trips around leaf peeping, whether it’s heading to a national park for unimpeded foliage or planning a drive to take in the dazzling orange, red, and yellow hues that dominate the landscape. And while the pastime is popular enough to drive crowds to well-known viewing destinations, there are still plenty of under-the-radar options for getting your fix.”

So, which Michigan spot is considered one of the best “secret places” to take in autumn? There are plenty of options in our state, but read on for the full list of the 10 best cities in the U.S. to view fall foliage, according to BestLifeOnline.com. Find more information on all of the areas here. I will say that the No. 1 spot is not in our state- it’s in Julian, California. That town is about an hour east of San Diego and considered the best in America to not only see the fall colors but also participate in fall-themed activities.

  • 10. Charlottesville, Virginia

    “Now, with the state’s burgeoning wine and brewery scene, autumn can provide just one more reason to book a trip,” BestLifeOnline.com states.

    Charlottesville, VA | Official Website

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  • 9. Fort Payne, Alabama

    “If there’s anywhere in the country that gets robbed of regular fall colors, it’s the deep south,” BestLifeOnline.com states. But Fort Payne, Alabama, is an exception.

    Fort Payne, Alabama - The City of Fort Payne

    Community Info Business Info Things to Do Welcome to Fort Payne, Alabama From the valley to Lookout Mountain, we take pride in our natural beauty and all that it contributes to our quality of life. Our leadership continues to look forward with a

  • 8. Portland, Oregon

    “The Pacific Northwest is known for its easy access to nature, making fall foliage season much more enjoyable,” BestLifeOnline.com states.

    Portland, Oregon - The Official City Guide

    Make a pilgrimage to the world's largest indie bookstore, discover local art, wander peaceful gardens, taste something completely new and more in Portland.

  • 7. Bar Harbor, Maine

    “On Maine’s northern coast, one town stands out for its natural beauty among visitors and locals alike,” BestLifeOnline.com states.

    Visit Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

    Bar Harbor, Maine is the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of America's most visited national parks, and the largest community on Mount Desert Island. Bar Harbor is the heart of island activity, including lodging, shopping, and dining. Visitors from around the world come to Bar Harbor to experience the region's dramatic, varied scenery.

  • 6. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

    “If you’re hoping to cross any major historical sites off of your bucket list this year, experts say the beginning of autumn can make Gettysburg that much more special of a trip,” BestLifeOnline.com says.

    Destination Gettysburg: Official Guide to Gettysburg, PA

    Plan your trip to Gettysburg and experience more than civil war history and the Gettysburg Battlefield. Find fun things to do, dining, lodging and more.

  • 5. Brooklyn, New York

    “The same green spaces and parks that draw in millions of visitors a year put on a dazzling autumnal show that’s enhanced by their big city backdrop,” BestLifeOnline.com says.

    New York City Tourism + Conventions | Explore the Top Things to Do in NYC

    Discover the neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems of New York City Tourism + Conventions | Explore the Top Things to Do in NYC with NYC Tourism.

  • 4. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

    “While many leaf peepers head much further north into Vermont and New Hampshire, the southern corner of the region still puts on a dazzling seasonal color show,” BestLifeOnline.com says.

    Discover Litchfield Hills | Things to do and Places to go!

    The 21 towns of the Litchfield Hills - where you can Find the Arts, Eat Local, Take a Hike, Sleepover and so much more.

  • 3. Mackinac Island, Michigan

    It’s no secret that Mackinac Island has some of the most beautiful fall foliage you’ll find anywhere in the country. If you’ve never enjoyed the autumn colors up there, now is the time.

    Mackinac Island

    Mackinac Island is the truly "all natural" theme park of America. Limited to transportation of horse and buggy, bicycle or foot, surrounded by water, it has escaped the vast changes of time.

  • 2. Denver, Colorado

    Denver is known for being a ski getaway, but did you know it also has some of the best colors you’ll see anywhere? It’s true.

    Denver Colorado Vacations & Conventions | Plan Your Trip

    Explore things to do, hotels, restaurants & more in Denver. Find all the info you need to start planning your trip or meeting. Download our Visitors Guide!

  • 1. Julian, California

    I have some friends and family out in California, and they attest to the fact that Julian is a beautiful spot to see fall foliage.

    Julian, California

    Discover Julian, California, the historic gold-mining town in the Cuyamuca Mountains above the Colorado Desert. Famous for apple pies.

  • Source

    This list if via BestLifeOnline.com.

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