When you start to feel the chill in the air in Southern California, that’s autumn knocking on our door, and that means that the crisp fall air is on the way. If you love all the sights, sounds, and flavors of the fall season, then you’ll want to head out on a few of these picture-perfect fall forays that are some of the best day trips in Southern California.

1. Willowbrook Apple Farm
Willowbrook Apple Farm, 12099 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399, USA
flickr/don graham
Apple picking is an absolute must to experience once the fall season rolls around. If you're wondering, "where are the getaway spots near me?" we have your answer! With plenty of apple orchards to choose from it can be hard to decide to which place to pick. One of our favorites is Willowbrook Apple Farm, where you can pick your own apples and make a batch of your very own cider from the U-press.
2. Briar Rose Winery
Briar Rose Winery, 41720 Calle Cabrillo, Temecula, CA 92592, USA
Briar Rose Winery
A picturesque trip to Southern California wine country is just the thing to warm you up on a crisp and chilly autumn day. The Briar Rose Winery is an extra special place to stop during the fall season as this local gem is right out of a storybook. Add some crunchy fall leaves to the setting and you have yourself a fairytale kind of day.
3. Antique shopping in Old Towne Orange
Old Towne, Orange, CA 92866, USA
yelp/lianne k.
What better way to embrace the fall season by heading out on a day of antiquing in one of SoCal's most charming towns. If you're looking for unique things to do in Southern California, Old Towne Orange has you covered. The Old Towne district in Orange, CA is dotted with tons of shops featuring antiques and vintage goods that will make you swoon.
4. A Fall Foliage Road Trip
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Shawna Scott/Flickr
The fall season is the perfect time for a road trip. Take this scenic journey across SoCal to see some of the prettiest fall foliage the state has to offer. Make sure you bring comfy shoes so you can take a break outside and jump around in some colorful fall leaves.
5. Old Town Temecula -- San Diego County
Old Town Temecula, 3rd St, Temecula, CA 92590, USA
yelp/terri r.
Nothing beats Old Town Temecula for a dreamy autumn day trip. Take a stroll along the tree-lined main street and enjoy the local shops and restaurants for a day of shopping, browsing, and dining in a picture-perfect fall setting.

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6. Forest Falls -- San Bernardino National Forest
Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA
wikimedia commons
Taking a day trip to a small SoCal town tucked inside the forest is a great way to spend a fall day. The town of Forest Falls has tons of great woodsy hikes to enjoy, a picturesque waterfall, and one of the best Mexican food restaurants around.
7. Snow-Line Orchards
Snow-Line Orchard, 39400 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399, USA
yelp/christine k.
How about some apple cider to kick-off the autumn season? Head to Snow-Line Orchards in Oak Glen for a perfect fall day trip. You'll love the setting of this charming cider house in Oak Glen that bottles the yummiest and most flavorful apple cider you've ever tasted.
8. Idyllwild
Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, USA
yelp/kristen m.
Searching "day trips near me?" You will love Idyllwild. As the temperatures get cooler and the leaves start to change in SoCal you know it's time to head out of town for a little mountain getaway. You can't go wrong with the charming town of Idyllwild where you'll find an abundance of fresh air, towering pine trees, delicious restaurants, and the perfect small town charm that will make your fall complete.
9. Riley's Farm -- Oak Glen, CA
12261 S. Oak Glen Road in Oak Glen, CA.
facebook/hawk's head publick house
A day trip to the town of Oak Glen wouldn't be complete without stopping at Riley's Farm and having a festive lunch at Hawk's Head Tavern for a round of warm comfort food that tastes just like mom used to make.
10. Oak Tree Village -- Oak Glen, CA
38480 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399, USA
flickr/don graham
Finishing up our list of unique things to do in Southern California for the day is Oak Tree Village. There's really nothing else quite like Oak Tree Village. Located in Oak Glen, this charming small town destination feels like the perfect place where you can embrace everything that makes fall special - apple pie, colorful autumn leaves, local shops, hot cider, and fresh caramel apples. Just one stroll through this little village and your autumn bucket list will be complete.

How’s that for some fun ideas to embrace the fall season? I can’t wait to hit the road and experience all of them. If you love the idea of taking a drive through SoCal to see the fall foliage, here’s a drive we enjoy anytime of the year — but especially in the autumn season. Enjoy tackling these best day trips in Southern California!

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Best Day Trips in Southern California

Danielle Schwartz | April 23, 2022

What is the most scenic town in Southern California?

According to many locals, the most scenic town in Southern California is Julian. It's a small town paradise for weekend trips. Julian is famous for its incredibly tasty pies, and there is more than one bakery where you can pick up a slice (or three). You can also bring home a delicious blueberry, apple, or pumpkin confection to enjoy when you get home. Enjoy the charming and nostalgic main street full of shops, restaurants, and lots of seasonal cheer.

What is the weather like in the fall in Southern California?

The weather is often very warm in the fall in the cities of Southern California. In fact, September is one of the hottest months of the year in San Diego and Los Angeles. But if you go up to the mountains, you can often find that crisp fall air and brisk breeze that you are craving for an authentically autumn experience. The climate varies so much in the region, and that is one of its most unique and interesting features. You can experience summer and fall on the same day, which is often not possible in many other states. Southern California may be known for its endless summer, but in reality, its weather is highly dependent on where you are in the region. With such varied elevations, there are plenty of times when it's hot in a valley and snowing on top of the mountains.

Can I take a train ride in Southern California in the fall?

You can absolutely take a train ride in Southern California in the fall. Two of the popular train choices in the area are Amtrak and Surfliner. If you like ocean views, you'll have a great time on either of these options. The coastal routes are beautiful, and since you won't be driving you'll get to enjoy every detail of the gorgeous landscape and sparkling water. Take your trip during the day so you don't miss out on seeing the natural environment around you.

 

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