There’s nothing quite like a Midwest autumn. One minute the trees are still green, and the next they’ve exploded into fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and glowing yellows. It always feels like the world is dressed up for just a few short weeks, and I find myself looking for excuses to hit the road.
I’ve learned that some of the best memories are made on those fall drives — the kind where you roll the windows down just enough to let in the crisp air, stop at a cider mill for a warm donut, and pull over more times than you planned because the view is just too beautiful to pass by. Around Lake Michigan, I’ve driven routes where the road is covered in golden leaves like confetti. Other times I’ve headed further afield to explore winding byways that are just as breathtaking.
I always bring a few comforts with me. A favorite travel mug filled with hot coffee, one of my tea towels tucked in for impromptu picnics, and sometimes even my sketchbook. When I see a view that makes me stop the car, it’s fun to capture it quickly in pencil or paint so I can return to it later in my artwork. Fall drives aren’t just about getting from point A to point B, they’re about slowing down, soaking it in, and noticing how different the world feels this time of year.
Whether you’re in the Midwest or closer to home, there are incredible routes worth exploring. Some wind along lakeshores, others climb through hills, and a few lead you to small towns that feel like hidden gems.
To make it easier for you to plan, I’ve created a free printable guide with some of my favorite Midwest fall drives, and a few that are still on my list. My Favorite Midwest Fall Drives is perfect for printing out and keeping handy when the leaves start to change. Download the guide below.
This fall, give yourself a day (or even just an afternoon) to wander. Pack something warm to sip, bring a friend, and let the winding roads remind you how magical this season really is.
