Fall brings a feast for the eyes as leaves turn up the color across the country

September 30, 2020 - As Fall begins, surges in the Great American Road Trip continue with travelers planning for safe and COVID-conscious trips to catch some of autumn’s amazing colors, sometimes referred to as “leaf-peeping.” AAA Oklahoma travel agents recommend reviewing a foliage map before formalizing your plans so you can see the reds, oranges and yellows at their finest. As with any decision to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, AAA Oklahoma reminds travelers it’s important to be mindful of safety precautions specific to your destination when planning a trip.

“While many people think of the northeast as the best places to view the fall foliage, nature’s show is gorgeous right here in Oklahoma and in other parts of the country,” stated Anita McNelly, AAA Oklahoma Travel Manager. “Planning is key to ensure you enjoy fall’s colors at their peak in various regions.”

Road Trip Recommendations

AAA Oklahoma travel agents can provide state-specific recommendations for leaf-peeping as well as coordinating travel plans and stopovers along the way. Their roles include navigating COVID-19 travel restrictions across the country. “Thankfully, road trips to view fall foliage allow travelers some wiggle room,” said McNelly.  

AAA members can take advantage of lodging and attraction discounts which travel agents can assure are fully utilized.

For those who prefer to plan visits with online tools, AAA’s Covid-19 Travel Restrictions Map at TripTik.AAA.com offers the latest state and local travel restrictions.  AAA’s TripTik digital product has incorporated instant access to COVID-19 updates from around the United States. Users simply define the stops along their itinerary within the digital product, and the latest COVID restrictions and information is just a click away.

Plan Ahead for Safety Before “Leafing”

Be sure your leaf-peeping isn’t marred by vehicle problems. AAA’s Car Care Centers at N.W. 61^st and May and Quail Springs in Oklahoma City, as well as in Edmond and Norman offer free 12-point vehicle inspections by appointment. Automotive experts can help prevent problems with these evaluations:

•  Battery check - especially if it is more than 3 years old. Most batteries last three to five years. A battery on the brink of dying rarely warns a driver before it fails, but having a simple battery test will.
• Tire pressure and tread check.
• Windshield wiper and fluid check.

Make sure your cell phone is fully charged so you can call for help if needed. Pack an emergency kit including a blanket, water and snacks. Have a road rescue plan that spans your route – preferably, an automotive expert from a 24/7 service such as AAA - not your brother-in-law!

Gas Price Averages

In addition to the colorful scenery, gas prices, both locally and nationally, make it a good time to hit the road. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has been decreasing for the past week and is expected to continue flat or decline. In Oklahoma, the average gas price is $1.90, some 48 cents less than this time last year.