The Best Way to Score an Affordable Fall Getaway (We Did the Math)

Fall is the best time of year to take a quick trip. The leaves are turning, the summer crowds are gone and hotel prices start to drop. But if you want a getaway that is actually affordable, the trick is not just finding a cheap room. It is stacking every perk you can get on top of it. Here is the exact stack we would use this fall, plus six Spark by Hilton hotels close to some of the best fall color in the country.

Why Spark by Hilton Is Our Pick for a Budget-Friendly Fall Trip

Spark by Hilton is Hilton‘s budget-friendly brand, and it is built for exactly this kind of trip. You get the basics done well without paying for extras you will never use.

• Rooms that are clean, comfortable and consistent
• Free breakfast, so you are not paying for coffee and eggs every morning
• The 100% Spark Guarantee, so if something is not right, they make it right
• Hilton Honors points on every stay when you book direct

How to Stack the Savings, Step by Step

Step 1: Join Hilton Honors (It’s Free)

Every deal below is for Hilton Honors members. Joining is free and takes about two minutes. Members also get member rates, and you earn points toward free nights on every stay. Join Hilton Honors here.

Step 2: Book the 1,000 Bonus Points Package

Spark’s 1,000 Bonus Points offer gives Honors members an extra 1,000 points for every night of their stay at a Spark by Hilton property, up to 7 nights. That is on top of the points you normally earn. A three-night weekend means 3,000 bonus points. It works at every Spark hotel, subject to availability.

Step 3: Register for Hilton‘s Fall Points Promotion

From October 15 through December 31, Hilton‘s More Points to Play promotion adds 1,000 bonus points to every stay. You have to register before your stay, so do it as soon as it opens. Add it to Step 2 and that three-night weekend could earn up to 4,000 bonus points before you count your regular points (check the terms when you book).

Step 4: Save on the Fun Stuff

When you book a stay at a participating hotel, you can save 10% to 15% on GetYourGuide experiences, including tours, attractions and things to do near your hotel. Think scenic drives, foliage tours and local tastings.

Step 5: Book Direct

Booking on Hilton.com or in the Hilton Honors app is the way to get the member rate and the bonus points. Third-party sites will not give you the stack.

6 Affordable Fall Getaways Near a Spark by Hilton

1. The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

The Smokies put on one of the longest fall color shows in the country, with peak color usually rolling down the mountains from mid-October into early November. Base yourself at Spark by Hilton Kodak, close to Sevierville and Pigeon Forge, and drive into the national park for the day.

2. Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

Asheville in October is all overlooks, apple orchards and breweries. Spark by Hilton Asheville Blue Ridge Parkway puts you minutes from the Parkway, so you can catch the color early and still be back in town for dinner.

3. Burlington and Lake Champlain, Vermont

Vermont is the classic fall trip for a reason. Spark by Hilton Essex Junction Burlington is an easy base for Lake Champlain sunsets, cider donuts and day trips to Stowe and the Green Mountains.

4. Lake George and the Adirondacks, New York

The Adirondacks turn early, and Lake George is gorgeous once the summer crowds clear out. Spark by Hilton Lake George Outlets adds a bonus: the outlets are close by for a head start on holiday shopping.

5. Branson and the Ozarks, Missouri

Branson is a budget-friendly fall pick, with Ozark Mountain foliage, lake views and plenty of shows. Stay at Spark by Hilton Branson Meadows and spend your savings on the fun stuff.

6. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Golden aspens, red rocks and crisp mountain air make Colorado Springs an easy fall win. Spark by Hilton Colorado Springs I-25 Central is about 20 minutes from Garden of the Gods.

Your Affordable Fall Getaway Checklist

• Join Hilton Honors for free
• Book the 1,000 Bonus Points package at a Spark by Hilton
• Register for More Points to Play once it before your stay (stays October 15 through December 31 count)
• Save on tours with GetYourGuide
• Enjoy the free breakfast and go see the leaves

Offers are subject to availability and Hilton‘s terms, may not be combinable with every rate and can change without notice. Bonus points can take up to eight weeks to post.