Who said the Bay Area can't get vibrant fall colors too? Even on the west coast, our many gorgeous parks and charming gardens showcase the most vivid autumnal colors that can easily rival those most commonly associated with New England. Here are the best locations around the Bay to catch a sight of nature's most vibrant hues that define the cozy change of the season.
See also: Best Bay Area Cafes With Fall-Themed Drinks
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75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr / (415) 752-1171 / Website
While Golden Gate Park in its entirety is a marvelous expanse to see all the leaves change, its Japanese Tea Garden within it is especially magical. With koi ponds, traditional pagodas, and an authentic tea shop, this wonderful garden exudes a tranquil atmosphere among the serene fall foliage, making it the perfect reverent escape from the bustle of the city to truly honor nature and find your zen.
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1199 9th Ave / (415) 661-1316 / Website
Another must-visit within Golden Gate Park's expanse (that's actually larger than New York City's Central Park) is the Botanical Garden. This beautiful 55-acre center is brimming with foliage from all around the world, allowing you to experience the same fall sights different countries also cherish. We recommend heading to the Temperate Asia Garden for the striking Japanese maple and bright ginkgos, and the Moon Viewing Garden for cherry trees and magnolias.
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2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda / (510) 544-2747 / Website
Over in the Berkeley hills, Tilden Regional Park makes for a short, but overwhelmingly picturesque day trip. Get an easy and endless view overlooking the Bay surrounded by dogwood and cottonwood trees that warmly create a radiantly golden walk.
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1550 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Berkeley / (510) 544-3169 / Website
The Botanic Garden in this area is also a fabulous stop for a more curated experience. Just north of the UC Berkeley campus, this is a well-maintained, affordable, and easily walkable paradise that boasts majestic ginkgos and towering maple trees.
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3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley / (415) 388-2070 / Website
Up in North Bay, Mt. Tam is a favorite hiking destination year-round, but especially for fall. Here you receive not only an exhilarating climb, but also a breathtaking view high above the rest of the Bay. Pair that with the sprawl of historic oak, and Bay laurel trees, and you'll feel absolutely accomplished and mesmerized.
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3801 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga / (707) 942-4575 / Website
Our Napa selection is the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park for its easy accessibility. You can rent a bike and ride through its Redwood Trail before finishing at a nearby vineyard for a rewarding refreshment near an equally revitalizing Sonoma County view.
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Page Mill Rd, Embarcadero Rd, University Ave / Website
You can experience fall from right within your car during a drive just all around Palo Alto! Everywhere in this stylish and peaceful city boasts canopies of the most eye-catching colors, but they are typically more concentrated around the long Embarcadero and Page Mill Roads. No matter which suburb you drive through, you'll be welcomed by the most lovely lush tree archways, though why not also make a stop at the Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden or downtown for a posh fall meal?
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86 Cañada Road, Woodside / (650) 364-8300 / Website
Up in the Woodside hills is the absolutely stunning Filioli Estate, a favorite among locals for their fun community events, thoroughly kind tours, and rich history in every nook and cranny of this Bridgerton-like property. The Versailles-like garden expanse turns the most incredibly warm hues, which feels impressively regal and Instagrammable against the backdrop of the opulent estate.
See also: Experience the Magic of Summer Evenings At The Bay Area's Paradisal Filoli Estate
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22500 Cristo Rey Dr. Los Altos / (650) 691-1200 / Website
Down in Santa Clara County is this open space reserve that offers autumnal views for those in the South Bay. Nearby to these bucolic and panoramic fields is the Deer Hollow Farm, which is perfect to bring children and gain more insight on the history of this community.
The Bay Area is truly a magical place, made even more special once you experience just how the warm autumn light perfectly hits all of our vibrant fall foliage!
Here is also a helpful and comprehensive map of when are where the best fall colors pop up in California:
See also: Best San Francisco Home Decor Shops For Fall
Photography by: Ege Güngör/Unsplash
