Hi Susan! 

Since you're from New York, maybe you can take a trip home and visit the Adirondack Mountains. It is so beautiful during the fall. The trees LIGHT up with those beautiful warm colors. This area is filled with sugar maple trees which in my opinion, give the best colors during the fall. I think you would definitely find your foliage here. 

We did the fall trip to Adirondack Mountains last year (drove upstate NY until Lake Placidand stopped at few other lakes and scenic spots on the way) and it was just spectacular. I guess, the best way is to follow the fall foliage website and plan accordingly. 

This is a question of Timing more than anything. You could find yourself on the most beautiful stretch of road in the world and if you are to early or late it will be meaningless. Watching the fall foliage tracker and being flexible are going to be the keys to this kingdom.

That being said, one of the all time greatest drives is in Maine. Take the 340 out of Portland (Maine) to Moose Pond and you will certainly pass by some breathtaking scenery. If you have the time take it the next step and continue on the 340 to Twin Mountain.

Thank you,

Travelationship

There are many areas of the country that offer beautiful fall colors. Timing is important so check online for the local suggestions. (links below) In New England they have leaf peepers weekend in early October, earlier as you go farther north. Putnam County, NY feels like living in a postcard at that time. Minnesota has beautiful colors as well. Here in North Carolina the mountains are beautiful in mid October. Late October to early November is great in “The Triangle” . By Thanksgiving in NC all leaves have fallen.

http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_26496768/minnesota-fall-color-finder-map-goes-live-season

http://www.yankeefoliage.com/

http://carolinas.aaa.com/sites/GoMagazine/articles/archive/2014/05/09/leaf-peeping-fabulous-fall-colors-in-the-carolina-mountains.aspx

http://farmersalmanac.com/peak-fall-foliage-dates/

I think New England has the best fall foliage with Vermontand New Hampshire being among the best. The peak time in those states would fall (no pun intended) around the first week in October. 

Susan,

I think Seattle is a beautiful place to visit for fall foliage. The crisp air compliments the beautiful leaves so well! I have family that live in Seattle, and the last time I was there it was late September/early October. In my opinion, this is the best time to go because the foliage is glowing! 

Vermont State Route 100 is a very popular among New Englanders.   For the traveler who prefers to mix adventure in with fall foliage check out Zoar Outdoor in both Massachusetts and Southern Vermont.  Zoar offers a one weekend a year chance to raft class 1-4 whitewater on the West River while experiencing great foliage views.   For those who like their foliage actually in the trees and flying by at 30 mph check out  zip lining at Zoar Outdoor.

According to this article people across the country can experience great foliage! Oregon, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, New York City, New England!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/fodors/10-best-fall-foliage-trip_b_5842708.html?ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000032