These are the coziest U.S. destinations for fall, with a stunning New England coastal town claiming the top spot

Sweater weather and leaf-peeping season are (hopefully) just around the corner, so it's time to start planning for that cozy autumn getaway. If you need a little inspiration, a new study reveals the U.S. destinations that offer the ultimate cozy experience for fall.

BetMGM Casino conducted a study evaluating 20 famous fall destinations based on seasonal conditions—such as vibrant foliage, shorter daylight hours, atmospheric autumn rainfall and proximity to an ideal "sweater weather" baseline of 53°F—alongside per-capita cozy amenities like coffee shops, independent bookstores, pumpkin patches and farmers' markets.

The analysis revealed that iconic leaf-peeping juggernauts don't always take top honors, with smaller, charm-packed towns stealing the spotlight.

Taking the top spot is Bar Harbor, Maine. This coastal haven boasts an idyllic 52°F seasonal average, 16 inches of crisp autumn rainfall and peak fall foliage hitting late October. Its abundant waterfront cafes and local markets make it the top choice for cozying up.

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Lake Placid, New York comes in at number two. A quaint village in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid features crisp 45°F temperatures and the earliest peak foliage of the study (around October 6), making it perfect for early-season travelers.

At number three is Galena, Illinois, with an optimal 50°F seasonal temperature and peak foliage popping right before Halloween (October 24). And as a bonus, this historic gem delivers robust small-town charm without the crowds.

Mystic, Connecticut and Traverse City, Michigan, two vibrant waterfront hubs, round out the top five, balancing rich seasonal scenery with excellent autumnal amenities.

And for those aiming to pair peak fall colors with spooky Halloween festivities, late-October travel to Salem, Massachusetts or Asheville, North Carolina offer the ultimate atmospheric backdrop.

The 20 coziest fall destinations in the U.S., according to BetMGM

1. Bar Harbor, ME
2. Lake Placid, NY
3. Galena, IL
4. Mystic, CT
5. Traverse City, MI
6. Harpers Ferry, WV
7. Portsmouth, NH
8. Leavenworth, WA
9. Woodstock, VT
10. Burlington, VT
11. Madison, WI
12. Salem, MA
13. Stowe, VT
14. Charlottesville, VA
15. Bend, OR
16. Denver, CO
17. Asheville, NC
18. Flagstaff, AZ
19. Franklin, TN
20. Greenville, SC