Only three months after she was named a host of the ABC News show with industry vets Charles Gibson and Diane Sawyer, Roberts had played it straight on the Gulf Coast. That's what reporters do: they keep a lid on emotions to get the work done. Then Gibson asked, during a live shot, if Roberts had determined that her mother and other family members were safe.

So much for professional reserve.

“It's one thing if you shed a tear, but I was boo-hooing,” Roberts said. “I was delighted that in the end people were touched by that in a way that I wasn't expecting, that it was authenticity. That was proof that they just want you to be real in the moment.”

That clip of a much younger Roberts — still a “Good Morning America” host — is replayed on her ABC News special looking back at Katrina after 20 years. It airs Friday at 8 p.m. Eastern and is streamed on Disney+ and Hulu starting the next day.

Roberts, 64, has been back in the region more times than she can count since then, both to report and visit family. Her mother, Lucimarian, died in 2012 at age 88. Her sister Sally-Ann, a longtime news anchor in New Orleans, has retired.

“I still can't believe it's been 20 years,” she said. “Two decades. Going through the old footage was a little PTSD. You kind of blocked some of that out.”

In the special, Roberts retraces the ride she took from New Orleans to Pass Christian 20 years ago. There are fewer “staircases to nowhere” along the way, evidence of destroyed homes, each time she's back. But remnants from Katrina are still there.

Retracing her steps back to hometown

She tours Pass Christian with the longtime former mayor, Chipper McDermott. They visit her rebuilt high school — spotting the picture of Roberts on display — and the new version of a favorite family restaurant that had been washed away.

McDermott shows new homes with living areas built 20 feet in the air to protect against future storm surges. “A lot of people say, ‘why would you live in a place where you have to live on stilts?’” Roberts said. “It's home. Pick anywhere in the world where Mother Nature can't have the upper hand at some point. But home is home.”

Roberts wanted to pay tribute both to people who stayed in the area and rebuilt, and people who came to the Gulf in the storm's immediate aftermath to help.

“It took a lot of strength to raise our hands and say we need help,” she said. “It's very hard for Southerners to do that. We like to do it on our own. We did a lot on our own, but we got a lot of help. And we're very appreciative of that help.”

The special doesn't ignore tough issues, like economic inequality in the pace of rebuilding. Some affordable housing was replaced by hotels and casinos. One effective segment visits a New Orleans photographer, Jeremy Tauriac, and musician, Jasmine Batiste, who were children when rescued from Katrina and talked about the difficulties rebuilding their lives.

There's music, too. What would a visit to New Orleans be without it? Roberts talks with Harry Connick Jr., Trombone Shorty and Branford Marsalis.

“It is different, in some ways, of course,” Roberts said. “Nothing stays the same, especially after something like that. But the heart and soul of what New Orleans is? It didn't touch that.”

The four-story building, situated at 369 W 46th Street, has long been central to New York’s queer culture, hosting unforgettable drag performances, DJ sets, and dance parties that drew people from across the city and beyond. Now, under the stewardship of new owner Eric Hanninen—himself a longtime patron of the venue—the club has emerged with a modern look and a renewed mission to serve as a safe, inclusive, and dynamic gathering place .

The Ritz’s facelift extends well beyond surface-level glamour. Patrons stepping inside will find a new dance floor shimmering beneath a disco ball, a state-of-the-art DJ booth, plush benches, and remodeled bathrooms designed for comfort and accessibility. Ambient lighting now sets the mood for late-night revelry, while the previously shuttered second-floor bar has reopened, offering an intimate lounge experience perched above the main action .

The club’s backyard patio has also been revamped, featuring new seating and table service—a welcome addition for those seeking conversation and connection in a more relaxed setting. Importantly, the renovations included critical upgrades to the HVAC system, lighting, and overall safety infrastructure, with Hanninen personally moving into an apartment above the club to ensure ongoing oversight and community engagement .

Beyond aesthetics, the relaunch signals a significant evolution in the club’s approach to safety and inclusivity. Hanninen has implemented a comprehensive security plan, including ID and bag checks, staff retraining in de-escalation techniques, and extended operating hours from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. New liquor licensing and legal improvements to the outdoor spaces ensure that every guest can enjoy themselves in a secure, welcoming environment .

Community leaders and advocates have praised these changes, emphasizing the importance of safe queer spaces at a time when LGBTQ+ rights and safety remain under threat in many parts of the country. At the reopening, New York drag icon and activist Brita Filter spoke passionately about the club’s role in her own journey, recalling, “This was where I saw my first drag show… where I learned what my queer culture was… and where I learned how to fight back.” Her remarks underscored the enduring significance of queer nightlife venues in fostering belonging and resilience .

The Ritz’s reputation for vibrant programming remains unchallenged. Regular events include rotating DJ sets, drag shows, and dedicated evenings for RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties. The club’s relaunch coincides with Pride Month, amplifying its role as a center for celebration and activism. “We know The Ritz means a lot to this neighborhood, and we’re listening,” Hanninen stated. “There’s a lot of work to do, but we’re committed to creating a space that welcomes everyone, celebrates queer culture, and brings back the energy that made The Ritz special in the first place” .

Patrons have responded enthusiastically, with online reviews highlighting the upgraded atmosphere, improved amenities, and the club’s commitment to maintaining its playful spirit. “The Ritz got a facelift and now she’s BACK… tight, slick, and ready to party. The old messy charm? Still there. But now it’s wrapped in mood lighting, actual airflow, and furniture that doesn’t feel like a dare. And bathrooms no longer feel like a biohazard,” wrote one reviewer, reflecting the blend of nostalgia and excitement that defines the new Ritz .

For many LGBTQ+ people, venues like The Ritz are more than entertainment destinations—they are sanctuaries where chosen family is forged, identities are affirmed, and joy is shared. As one longtime patron put it, “I’m a gay man, and this is my home—this is my chosen family… it’s really great that we get to come together, we get to party, we get to celebrate, you know, and we get to escape. And I think the disco ball is at the center of all that” .

The Ritz’s resurgence is emblematic of a broader revival in New York’s queer nightlife, with other historic venues undergoing similar rebirths. But for many, The Ritz stands apart for its history, its sense of community, and its enduring commitment to inclusivity. With its doors open wide once more, the club is poised to continue shaping the narrative of queer life in New York City for years to come.

he Ritz offers both a reminder of the power of safe, affirming spaces and a testament to the resilience of queer culture. The club’s reopening, under queer ownership and with a dedication to community, marks not just a return, but a renewal—a promise that the heart of New York’s LGBTQ+ nightlife beats stronger than ever.

The Ritz Bar and Lounge is open daily from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m., welcoming guests of all gender identities and orientations to experience the new chapter of a legendary venue .

Asheville’s reputation as an inclusive haven is rooted in its history as an arts enclave and a hub for countercultural movements. The city’s downtown buzzes with galleries, mural-lined streets, and independent bookstores, many of which are LGBTQ+-owned or explicitly queer-affirming. Since the 1980s, local grassroots organizations have advocated for LGBTQ+ rights, culminating in visible signs of acceptance—rainbow crosswalks, Pride flags in shop windows, and a city council that openly supports equality measures .

A pivotal moment came in 2019 when Asheville hosted its first-ever Trans Pride Parade, a landmark event in the region that drew visitors from across the Southeast and solidified the city’s commitment to transgender inclusion. Local advocacy groups such as the Campaign for Southern Equality and Blue Ridge Pride continue to educate, support, and celebrate the region’s diverse queer population through year-round programming .

Unlike some larger urban centers, Asheville’s queer scene is woven seamlessly into the city’s cultural fabric rather than confined to a single neighborhood.

- Bars and Nightlife: The Odditorium, a beloved dive bar and music venue, regularly hosts drag shows, queer open-mics, and LGBTQ+ dance parties. O.Henry’s, one of the South’s oldest gay bars, offers a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike, with weekly karaoke, themed nights, and a reputation for zero tolerance toward discrimination .

- Festivals and Community Events: Blue Ridge Pride, held every September, attracts thousands to downtown Asheville for a weekend of live music, a vibrant parade, and a family-friendly festival atmosphere. The festival highlights intersectional voices, centering transgender people, people of color, and rural LGBTQ+ communities that are often marginalized even within queer spaces .

- Wellness and Outdoor Activities: For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking connection with nature, Asheville is an ideal base. Queer-led hiking groups such as Out in the Woods and LGBTQ+-friendly adventure outfitters offer safe spaces to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and nearby hot springs. Mindfulness retreats, yoga workshops, and holistic wellness centers also cater to queer and trans visitors looking for rest and rejuvenation in a judgment-free environment .

Asheville’s queer community is notable for its intersectional approach. The city’s LGBTQ+ centers and advocacy groups work closely with organizations focused on racial justice, disability rights, and economic equity, ensuring that the region’s growing reputation for inclusivity extends to all—regardless of gender identity, race, or background.

Recent years have also seen the rise of Black- and Latinx-led queer events, such as the annual Queer Black Asheville Block Party and bilingual Drag Brunches at local restaurants. These gatherings explicitly address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people of color in the South and celebrate the multiplicity of queer experiences .

- Accommodations: Many Asheville hotels and guesthouses are LGBTQ+-owned or explicitly queer-affirming. The Blind Tiger and Beaufort House Inn have received recognition for their inclusive policies and diverse clientele .

- Culinary Scene: Asheville’s food culture is a draw in itself, with queer chefs leading innovative kitchens and farm-to-table restaurants. The city’s breweries—more per capita than almost anywhere else in America—often host drag bingo, queer trivia, and community fundraisers.

- Arts and Shopping: The River Arts District is home to LGBTQ+ artists and craftspeople. Queer-owned bookstores, such as Firestorm Books & Coffee, offer curated selections of queer literature, zines, and art.

While Asheville is a beacon of progressiveness, it exists within a state and region where LGBTQ+ protections are not universal. North Carolina’s history includes notable anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, and rural areas surrounding Asheville can present challenges for those seeking acceptance. However, the city’s visible activism, coalition-building, and support networks have created an environment where queer people not only visit but also choose to settle and thrive .

Travelers are encouraged to connect with local organizations for up-to-date resources and community events, especially since the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights in the South can shift rapidly.

Asheville’s rise as an emerging queer-friendly destination signals a broader trend—smaller cities and rural regions across North America are building vibrant, intersectional queer communities that offer alternatives to the traditional urban “gayborhood.” By centering local voices, prioritizing inclusion, and leveraging its natural beauty, Asheville is redefining what it means to be a queer destination in the 21st century .

LGBTQ+ travelers seeking something different—connection, authenticity, and adventure—will find Asheville’s doors open, its mountains inviting, and its community ready to welcome all.

Bisbee’s transformation is no accident. In 2013, the city made national headlines as the first municipality in Arizona to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples, defying state law at the time and setting a precedent for local activism . This bold move signaled Bisbee’s commitment to inclusion and inspired a wave of LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to relocate, open businesses, and invest in the town’s future .

Bisbee’s queer renaissance is visible in its vibrant downtown, where rainbow flags hang alongside murals, and LGBTQ+-owned establishments anchor the social scene. The town’s main drag, Brewery Gulch, is home to legendary bars like St. Elmo, Arizona’s oldest continuously operating bar, and the Bisbee Grand Hotel, which frequently hosts drag shows, cabaret nights, and inclusive dance parties .

The community’s visibility extends beyond nightlife. Bisbee Pride, held annually in June, draws thousands for a weekend of parades, live music, drag performances, and workshops. The event is organized by Bisbee Pride Inc., a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to fostering queer visibility and equity in southern Arizona . Unlike larger metropolitan Prides, Bisbee’s festival is intimate, grassroots, and deeply woven into the fabric of the town. Local businesses, from art galleries to coffee shops, participate with themed displays, special menus, and extended hours, making the celebration feel like a citywide embrace.

Bisbee’s rise as a queer-friendly destination is closely tied to its robust network of LGBTQ+-owned and -affirming businesses. Historic bed-and-breakfasts, such as the Letson Loft Hotel and the School House Inn, are known for their inclusive policies and welcoming hosts . The town’s eateries, like Cafe Roka and Bisbee Coffee Company, prioritize safe and celebratory spaces for all patrons. Many new arrivals—drawn by Bisbee’s lower cost of living and creative freedom—have opened vintage shops, bookstores, and art studios that contribute to the town’s eclectic charm .

Beyond commerce, Bisbee’s queer community has built infrastructure for support and connection. The Bisbee LGBTQ Resource Center offers social services, mental health resources, and peer support groups, ensuring that both visitors and residents have access to affirming care . These efforts are buoyed by the town’s progressive politics, with openly LGBTQ+ residents serving on city council and leading civic initiatives .

Bisbee’s artistic soul is evident year-round. The town hosts a packed calendar of events, many with explicitly queer themes or programming. In addition to Bisbee Pride, the annual Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb—an athletic event that traverses the city’s iconic staircases—features a robust turnout from local LGBTQ+ running clubs and drag athletes, blending fitness with flamboyance .

Art walks, poetry readings, and film screenings spotlight queer creators, while the Bisbee Royale theater regularly programs LGBTQ+ cinema . The town’s galleries exhibit work by transgender artists and queer photographers, exploring themes of identity, migration, and resilience that resonate deeply in the borderland context .

Bisbee’s emergence as a queer haven is inseparable from its activist history and borderland location. The town’s population reflects a mix of longtime locals, newcomers fleeing unaffordable coastal cities, and migrants from neighboring Mexico. This diversity has fostered a culture of mutual aid and intersectional solidarity, with local organizations collaborating on immigrant rights, reproductive justice, and anti-discrimination campaigns .

While Arizona as a whole has seen waves of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, Bisbee’s residents have responded with public protests, voter drives, and legal challenges, ensuring that queer voices remain central to the town’s identity and future .

Bisbee is located about 90 miles southeast of Tucson and is accessible via scenic State Route 80. The drive itself is part of the adventure, winding through high desert and mountain vistas . Travelers are encouraged to book accommodations in advance, especially during Pride and major festival weekends. While the town is compact and walkable, public transportation is limited, so most visitors opt to drive or cycle.

For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking an alternative to big-city scenes, Bisbee offers the warmth of a tight-knit community, the thrill of discovery, and the comfort of being truly seen. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a sun-drenched patio, dancing late into the night at a drag revue, or exploring the haunted halls of a historic hotel, Bisbee’s queer spirit is everywhere—bold, beautiful, and unapologetically itself.

Dubbed “A Fair For Every Bear,” Bearrison Street Fair is recognized as one of San Francisco’s most prominent LGBTQ+ events, drawing more than 5,000 attendees annually to the Leather and LGBTQ+ Cultural District in SoMa . The fair is designed to be accessible and welcoming to all adult LGBTQ+ identities, with organizers explicitly promoting an environment that celebrates body diversity, self-expression, and queer joy .

Running from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the festivities include:

- A main stage featuring live performances
- Pro wrestling bouts
- A deadlift competition
- Drag and twerking contests
- Beard and mustache contest
- XL art gallery installations
- Interactive carnival games
- Dancing with DJs
- Live art demonstrations
- Outdoor beverage service
- VIP Bear Garden
- A bustling vendor and exhibitor marketplace
- Weekend after-parties .

The 2025 entertainment roster reflects Bearrison’s commitment to showcasing diverse LGBTQ+ voices and talents. Leading the main stage is Chris Conde, a Brooklyn-based queer rapper whose music has been lauded for “mesmerizing flow” and “scandalously entertaining bars,” as noted by Rolling Stone . Conde’s artistry is distinguished by technically flawless lyricism, punk-infused energy, and deeply personal narratives chronicling experiences with addiction, internalized homophobia, and queer desire. Their unapologetic, sex-positive ethos and advocacy for LGBTQ+ visibility make Conde a compelling voice in contemporary hip-hop .

Chris Conde’s performances are described as visceral and transformative, using music as a vehicle to challenge conventional norms and uplift marginalized identities. By exploring themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and queer love, Conde continues to expand indie hip-hop’s boundaries and inspire audiences within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community .

In the DJ booth, DJ FunkyBearMartin brings a fusion of breakbeat and house music, honed in Portland’s underground scene and now electrifying San Francisco’s dance floors. Known for his infectious energy and eclectic sets, FunkyBearMartin is expected to keep the Bearrison crowd moving, affirming the fair’s inclusive and celebratory spirit .

Bearrison Street Fair’s organizers, SPI and BOSF, emphasize their goal of inclusivity and representation, striving to build a supportive “bear scene” that welcomes all body types, gender identities, and sexual orientations. The fair’s programming deliberately spotlights underrepresented voices, including drag performers, transgender artists, and nonbinary talent, reflecting the evolving diversity of queer communities in San Francisco and nationwide .

A range of competitions and contests—such as the deadlift challenge, beard & mustache competition, and drag performance showdown—encourage attendees to celebrate their bodies, identities, and creative flair. Large-scale art installations and interactive games foster community participation and highlight the importance of visibility and pride for all LGBTQ+ identities .

The fair relies on the efforts of over 100 volunteers, each contributing to the event’s success while raising funds for local nonprofits and charities. Volunteers receive exclusive perks, and every completed shift generates donations to a charity of their choice, reinforcing Bearrison’s ethos of mutual support and community building .

Exhibitor spaces, which can be secured through the official Bearrison website, feature a transparent refund policy and encourage participation from LGBTQ+ artists, businesses, and organizations. After the fair concludes, organizers express gratitude to all supporters, including those unable to attend, underscoring the event’s collective spirit .

Since its founding, Bearrison Street Fair has evolved into a cornerstone of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ cultural calendar, amplifying voices that have historically been marginalized within broader pride events. By centering bear culture, body positivity, and intersectional representation, the fair continues to set a standard for inclusive programming and meaningful community engagement .

Attendees are invited to join the celebration on October 18, 2025, and experience firsthand the transformative power of queer artistry, solidarity, and joy.

For further information about the event, including schedules, volunteer opportunities, and exhibitor signups, visit the official Bearrison Street Fair website (www.bearrison.org) and follow @bearrisonsf on Instagram.

Cherry Grove’s historical significance in queer culture is profound. Since the early 20th century, it has provided a rare refuge where LGBTQ+ people could express themselves openly—decades before such freedom was possible in most American cities . The Grove’s legacy includes welcoming transgender people, lesbians, gay men, bisexual, and non-binary visitors, fostering a culture of acceptance that endures today. The area’s architectural quirks—mid-century cottages, wild gardens, and wooden boardwalks—speak to a community built by and for LGBTQ+ people.

In 2025, local organizations have undertaken new efforts to honor this history. The Cherry Grove Archives Collection, for example, recently digitized decades of photographs and oral histories, making them accessible to visitors and researchers alike . Guided walking tours, offered on select weekends, showcase sites pivotal to LGBTQ+ rights and artistic expression—an initiative praised by The Advocate for its intergenerational bridge-building .

While Cherry Grove’s summer traditions—like the Invasion of the Pines and high-energy drag shows at the Ice Palace—remain legendary, the community has recently expanded its calendar to attract off-season travelers. In fall and winter 2025, Cherry Grove has introduced a series of queer-led wellness retreats, artist residencies, and community potlucks. The revitalization of the Cherry Grove Community House, a National Register landmark, has enabled year-round performances, including queer theater, music, and storytelling nights .

Local restaurants and bars, like Island Breeze and the Blue Whale, now remain open on weekends through much of the shoulder season, offering cozy spaces for connection. LGBTQ+-owned guesthouses have adapted with off-season rates and extended stays, appealing to remote workers and creatives desiring a communal, affirming environment .

Cherry Grove’s transformation is guided by a renewed commitment to intersectionality. In 2025, local organizers have launched events centering trans, non-binary, and BIPOC voices, including film screenings and panel discussions addressing the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality within queer spaces . The Grove’s longstanding tradition of drag performance now embraces a broader spectrum of gender expression and artistry, reflecting the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ culture.

Community leaders have also prioritized accessibility, with boardwalk improvements and partnerships with disability advocacy groups ensuring that Cherry Grove remains welcoming to all. Mental health workshops and support groups, organized in partnership with New York City-based LGBTQ+ organizations, provide vital resources for both residents and travelers, addressing the unique challenges faced by queer people in retreat-like spaces .

Reaching Cherry Grove requires a sense of adventure: visitors board a train or drive to Sayville, then take a ferry across the bay. The absence of cars on the island evokes an immediate sense of escape. In recent years, local environmental groups, many led by LGBTQ+ activists, have promoted sustainable travel practices—encouraging visitors to minimize waste, respect fragile dune ecosystems, and support local conservation initiatives .

Seasoned travelers recommend visiting in late September or October, when the Atlantic is still swimmable and the island’s natural beauty is at its peak. Off-season, the pace slows, and the sense of queer community deepens, with intimate gatherings replacing the spectacle of peak summer parties.

In a travel landscape where many LGBTQ+-friendly destinations have become heavily commercialized, Cherry Grove offers something rare: authenticity rooted in lived experience, intergenerational community, and ongoing activism. As queer travelers seek destinations that are both fun and meaningful, Cherry Grove’s renaissance stands out. Whether participating in a storytelling night at the Community House, hiking through the Sunken Forest, or sharing a meal in an LGBTQ+-owned cafe, visitors to Cherry Grove find a space where joy, resistance, and belonging intertwine.

In 2025, Cherry Grove is not just a summer escape, but an evolving queer haven—one that honors its past while welcoming the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities into its future .

There are only three places on the planet where deciduous forests transform into the reds, oranges and yellows of fall. And nowhere else is it as bright and brilliant as in Eastern North America. While the autumnal equinox officially starts on Sept. 22, there's still plenty of time to plan your trip, even if it's just down the street. All of the 48 contiguous United States have some fall foliage, even Florida, but here are the best options for a true explosion of color.

The usual suspects

You may recall from your high school science class that chlorophyll is what gives plants their green color. The natural nutrient allows plants to utilize the sun's rays to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars and starches by photosynthesis. However, as the Earth tilts away from the sun, plants send less chlorophyll out to the leaves, causing them to transform into the vibrant colors of autumn.

New England

If there's one area that's known for pretty fall colors, it's New England. The farther away you are from the equator, the less sun you get. Plants in the northern regions produce more chlorophyll during the spring and summer, and when they stop pumping out to the leaves, the colors are even more spectacular.

The White Mountains of New Hampshire are well known for their fall foliage. Millions come to see the leaves erupt into reds, oranges and yellows during October. The same sugar that creates true maple syrup causes chemical reactions in the leaves, causing the more brilliant reds. If you visit too early, the colors will seem dull, but mid-October is prime viewing time.

Head up Route 112 to hit the famous Kancamagus Highway, a 34-mile drive with no distracting businesses, restaurants or gas stations, just mile after mile of beautiful fall scenery. The smell of the forest transports you back in time, and many choose to camp along The Kanc for the best autumn experience.

Named by Travel + Leisure as one of the Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States, Stowe, Vermont, is known as the fall color capital. You'll want to visit the last week of September through mid-October for the best leaf peeping. You can see the explosion of fall colors around the historical buildings in town, or wind up Smuggler's Notch, first used in the War of 1812.

Further south, the hills and valleys come alive with fall colors in Green Mountain National Park. What better way to maximize your autumnal experience than going through a forest of trees, all displaying slightly different varieties of color? The mountains make the perfect backdrop, as you hike into the 400,000 acres using the oldest continuous footpath in the U.S.

Typical fall colors are offset by the blues and greens of evergreen trees in The Berkshires, Massachusetts. Take a trip down the Mohawk Trail along Route 2 that includes the famous Hairpin Turn, or work your way up the winding road to the top of Greylock Mountain, where you can see colorful leaves for miles.

Last year, Yankee magazine named Kent, Connecticut, one of the best fall foliage towns in New England. It's a great place to take the family. Along with Mystic, Hartford and New Haven, you can see plenty of colorful leaves, historic buildings and old covered bridges. You can even catch a fall foliage-oriented train ride.

Make a whole day of it by slipping into nearby Rhode Island. The Blackstone Valley region is gorgeous and just a few miles away from Providence and Newport, where you can see tall ships on Narragansett Bay.

Tri-State Area

In early to mid-October, the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York flourish with a spectacular display of color. Hannacroix Creek Preserve is a nice hike into an explosion of fall foliage, ending with a majestic waterfall. The overlook next to the historic Catskill Mountain House, built in the 1820s, provides a perfect vantage point for admiring the changing leaves.

The leaves in the trees on the 6 million acres of the Adirondacks change so consistently, it's like watching a colored wave. They shift from yellow to orange and red, then purple, before dropping entirely off. They also shift depending on weather and how close they are to the lakes and rivers.

Whether you opt to hike into the Allegheny National Forest or bike along the Great Allegheny Passage, fall colors are unmissable in Pennsylvania. Pine Creek Gorge adds purple to the mix. Late September to early October is the best time to leaf-peep in the Keystone State. Big Pocono State Park offers a summit with ideal views of fall foliage in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey

Less crowded, still beautiful

Their colors may not be quite as spectacular as what you'd see in the crisp New England autumn, but the middle of the country still has plenty to see, and often boasts much smaller crowds.

Midwest and Great Lakes

The variety of trees and waterways they're adjacent to provides a unique spectrum of color in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The usual red and yellow leaves are complemented by reddish brown, bronze and purple-hued reds. Mid-October is the best time to visit Peninsula State Park in Door County, Wisconsin. And to really avoid crowds, but still see plenty of color, try Lilydale, Minn.

Michigan's Upper Peninsula, or U.P., is a hidden gem amongst leaf peepers. Mackinac Island, famous for its fudge and saltwater taffy, is car free and covered in deciduous trees, carpeting the community in an explosion of color starting in mid-October. Ride a bike or hop on a horse-drawn carriage to explore.

The third week of October is the best time to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio. The usual reds are mixed in with a whole palette of other rose-colored hues, along with yellows and some oranges.

The Mason-Dixon Line

While there are many places to spot fall colors in the Southern states, there's one road that combines the best views. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs 469 miles, bordering Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky and North Carolina, connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That's hundreds of opportunities to see gorgeous fall colors, with the best prospects in mid-to late October, depending on your elevation.

Underrated alternatives

Finally, take a look out west. These are places you might not expect, but look beautiful, and with a much smaller crowd.

Go West, young man

A proliferation of cottonwood, red alders and maple trees decorates the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon with stunning golden and red-hued leaves. Mid- to late October is when the colors pop most, depending on elevation. Residents recommend hiking Multnomah Falls, Hood River or Eagle Creek Trail. The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway is perfect for vehicle traffic, with plenty of areas to pull off and snap shots.

Grand Teton, Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole in Wyoming have their own unique fall flavor. An abundance of Aspen trees means yellow is the dominant autumn color here, laced with some oranges and few reds and the occasional purple.

Surprisingly for some, the Arizona high desert displays a fiery fountain of fall foliage. The color changes can be clearly tracked north to south. In Flagstaff and north of the Grand Canyon, the colors are most vibrant in late September. As they fade, the palette shifts down, Sedona in mid- to late October, and the Chiricahua Mountains light up in late October into November.

Colorado follows a similar pattern, with their vivid yellows, golds, oranges and reds cascading southwards as September turns into October and then November. For Aspen, the most vibrant hues are in late September and can be seen from Cathedral Lake, driving down Independence Pass, or camping near Maroon Bells.

Mount Rainier in Washington state finds itself carpeted with fall colors tinged with southwest hues. From mid-October to early November, tour the park between Sunrise and Chinook Pass, as well as the Paradise area, Reflection Lakes, Bench and Snow Lakes, and the Grove of the Patriarchs.

Orange hues tend to dominate the forests around Lake Tahoe, straddling the California and Nevada border. Drive Highway 50 or 80 to see some beautiful landscapes, or venture off the freeway for more exploration around Truckee River and Donner Lake with views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Check out Ponderosa Meadow, famous to so many boomers thanks to the show "Bonanza."

Turning over a new leaf

While leaves can start changing as early as mid-September, October is really the peak time for most leaf peeping. If you need a state-by-state reference, the Farmer's Almanac breaks it down even to the specific regions. Even the busiest areas are a little quieter during the week. With proper planning, you can see lots of gorgeous fall color without tripping over too many other tourists.

Ksenia Prints is a food and travel writer from Montreal, Canada. She blogs over at We Travel We Bond, writing about family travel off the beaten path.

The new rule goes into effect Jan. 27, the same day Southwest starts assigning seats.

Currently, plus-size passengers can either pay for an extra seat in advance with the option of getting that money back later, or they can request a free extra seat at the airport. Under the carrier's new policy, a refund is still possible but no longer guaranteed.

In a statement Monday, Southwest said it is updating some of its policies as it prepares for assigned seating next year.

“To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the statement said.

It marks the latest change at Southwest, which had long been known for letting its passengers pick their own seats after boarding the plane, and for letting their bags fly for free, which ended in May. Those perks were key to differentiating the budget carrier from its rivals.

Southwest says it will still refund a second ticket under its new policy for extra seating if the flight isn't fully booked at the time of departure, and if both of the passenger's tickets were purchased in the same booking class. The passenger also needs to request the refund within 90 days of the flight.

If a passenger who needs an extra seat doesn't purchase one ahead of time, they will be required to buy one at the airport, according to the new policy. If the flight is full, the passenger will be rebooked onto a new flight.

Jason Vaughn, an Orlando-based travel agent who posts theme park reviews and travel tips for plus-size people on social media and his website, Fat Travel Tested, said the change will likely impact travelers of all sizes. Southwest’s current policy helped create a more comfortable flying experience for plus-size travelers, he said, while also ensuring all passengers have adequate space in their seats.

“I think it’s going to make the flying experience worse for everybody,” he said of the new rule.

Vaughn described the change as yet another letdown for Southwest loyalists like himself, likening it to Cracker Barrel's recent logo change that has angered some of the restaurant's fans.

“They have no idea anymore who their customer is,” he said of the airline. "They have no identity left.”

The airline has struggled recently and is under pressure from activist investors to boost profits and revenue. It also said last year that it would charge customers extra for more legroom and offer red-eye flights.

It's not about going back in time; it's about going back to your time. To the waterparks that defined your summers, the storybook escapes you imagined from your bedroom floor, or the quirky cult TV towns that lived rent-free in your teen brain. 

Here are four destinations serving major nostalgia, reimagined for your adult self, with just the right mix of memory and modern magic.

For Recreating Waterpark Days - Sandos Caracol Eco Resort

Sprawled within the lush jungle of the Riviera Maya, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is the ultimate throwback to childhood waterpark bliss. The resort's massive 29-slide water park (one of the largest in the region) stirs up carefree nostalgia with splash zones, twisting slides, and waterfall fun for all ages.

However, the magic doesn't stop at the slides. Guests can snorkel in crystal-clear cenotes, encounter native wildlife like spider monkeys and coatis, and catch vibrant cultural performances. Plus, it's all wrapped into one eco-friendly, all-inclusive price that satisfies both your inner child and your adult budget.

For Recreating the Great American Road Trip - The Meritage Resort and Spa

Pack the car, roll the windows down, and cue the road trip playlist. The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley channels the golden age of family vacations, only this time, it's luxe.

Think of it as a grown-up version of those summer road trips to wine country with Mom and Dad, where instead of fast food stops and motel pools, you're indulging in farm-to-table dining, wine tastings, and cabana-side lounging. With its backyard vineyard, nostalgic lawn games, retro-inspired bowling alley, and scenic hillside views, The Meritage Resort and Spa offers the charm of a classic California escape with all the adult perks you never knew you needed back then.

“California wine country is basically one giant autocross course, only with better scenery, slower cruising, and the kind of rewards you can sip and savor.”— Olivia Richmond,Guessing Headlights.

For Recreating Storybook Summers - Villa Bokéh - Antigua, Guatemala

Remember the childhood joy of curling up beneath a tree, nose buried in a book, imagining faraway places filled with magic, mystery, and adventure? At Villa Bokéh - a 15-room luxury retreat set on the edge of Antigua, Guatemala - that feeling comes rushing back. With its own private lagoon and complimentary canoe rides aptly named 'The Notebook Experience', the hotel invites guests to paddle past willows and wildflowers at their own pace, like a scene pulled straight from a vintage storybook.

Surrounding it all is a pristine six-acre garden dotted with reading benches and hidden nooks perfect for quiet reflection, plus a charming picnic basket amenity service that brings lunch straight to the lawn. It's a grown-up version of the summers you once loved, and the books you imagined yourself living in.

For Recreating Your Twin Peaks Obsession - Bellevue, Washington

If you ever found yourself captivated by cherry pie, damn fine coffee, and the eerie mystery of Twin Peaks, now's your chance to step into the show's surreal Pacific Northwest world. While the iconic series was filmed in nearby Snoqualmie and North Bend, savvy travelers base themselves in Bellevue, just outside of Seattle, and it is the perfect 'basecamp' to explore the entire area where the iconic show was filmed.

Spend the day tracing the show's most iconic locations, from the real-life Double R Diner (aka Twede's Café) to Snoqualmie Falls, which famously appeared in the opening credits. For those serious about making the pilgrimage, Visit Bellevue has compiled a complete Twin Peaks guide here - including exact filming sites, fun facts, and tips.