F
or much of the country, sweater weather is finally here! The changing leaves and dropping temps of fall are the perfect opportunity for hotels, resorts, and destination marketing organizations (DMOs) to capture the hearts of travelers who can’t wait to don their coziest jackets and boots.
If you had to pick one social channel where viewers flock to see photos of changing leaves and warm coffee, one platform stands out above the rest: Instagram. This time of year lends itself perfectly to Insta-worthy moments that can elevate brand engagement — and ultimately drive bookings.
Here are some highly Instagrammable fall content ideas to showcase your property as the perfect fall getaway.
1. Seasonal Decor
Nothing defines this season more than a warm, rustic color palette. Showcase how your property is embracing the season by sharing photos and videos of your autumn-inspired decor.
Content Inspiration:
- Feature harvest displays with pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks.
- Provide a video tour of cozy, inviting lobby spaces adorned with plaid blankets, candles, and foliage-inspired centerpieces.
- Capture photos of fire pits or outdoor seating areas with seasonal floral arrangements.
Pro tip: Use hashtags like #FallVibes or #AutumnAesthetic to reach a wider audience of potential travelers looking for a seasonal escape.
2. Fall Foliage Walks and Views
If you’re located in a region where fall foliage is abundant, take every opportunity to show off the natural beauty of your surroundings. Create visually stunning content that showcases the changing colors in creative ways.
Content Inspiration:
- Share drone shots of vibrant treetops and scenic landscapes.
- Post time-lapse videos of the sun rising or setting over a golden-hued forest.
- Promote nature trails or guided walks that guests can enjoy, along with the scenic vistas they’ll experience.
Pro tip: Consider creating a fall foliage tracker on Instagram Stories, highlighting when the colors will be at their peak. This adds a layer of urgency for travelers to book a stay during the most picturesque time of the season.
3. Seasonal Food and Beverages
This time of year is all about comfort food and seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice, apple cider, and caramel. Post content that showcases your fall menu.
Content Inspiration:
- Feature your chef or bartender making signature fall dishes or cocktails.
- Post carousel images of beautifully plated meals using seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, apples, and mushrooms.
- Highlight any special fall menus (don’t forget to include local ingredients to appeal to the farm-to-table crowd).
Pro tip: Take advantage of user-generated content by encouraging guests to share photos of their meals with a branded hashtag, and repost their best shots on your own feed.
4. Cozy Guest Room Experiences
As the weather cools, travelers are drawn to cozy accommodations that offer warmth and comfort — so, take the opportunity to show off the coziest aspects of your property’s rooms or suites.
Content Inspiration:
- Share images of rooms with fireplaces, hot tubs, or luxurious bedding.
- Create short videos of guests enjoying an in-room coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, wrapped in soft blankets, while looking out at the fall scenery.
- Post before-and-after photos of rooms transformed for the season with autumnal decor.
Pro tip: Highlight features like plush robes, slippers, or in-room amenities like local snacks and seasonal treats. The goal is to evoke a sense of warmth and relaxation that will entice potential guests to book a getaway.
5. Promote Fall Events and Activities
Take advantage of your area’s fall event calendar to attract guests to your property. Whether it’s a pumpkin carving contest, a local harvest festival, or a wine-tasting event, these events can lend themselves to Instagrammable moments for your followers.
Content Inspiration:
- Create an event-specific hashtag and encourage attendees to share their experiences on Instagram.
- Share behind-the-scenes content leading up to the event, such as setup details, interviews with vendors, or sneak peeks at the activities.
- After the event, share user-generated content to give potential guests a taste of what they missed — and a reason to book for the next event.
Pro tip: Use Instagram Stories and Reels to highlight the energy and excitement of fall activities, which can help even those who missed out this year start planning for the next.
6. Fall Travel Inspiration and Local Experiences
DMOs and hotels can position themselves as fall travel experts by curating fall content that showcases unique local experiences. Post guides, itineraries, or day trips that highlight what travelers can see and do during their stay.
Content Inspiration:
- Highlight nearby apple orchards, vineyards, or corn mazes, along with tips for visitors.
- Create Instagram Stories featuring “A Day in the Life” of a traveler enjoying the best fall activities in your destination.
- Interview local artisans, shop owners, or farmers, and promote their fall offerings like handmade scarves, artisanal cider, or seasonal produce.
Pro tip: Partner with regional influencers or bloggers to attract both local travelers looking for a quick fall getaway and those from more Southern climates, who might be seeking an authentic experience.
7. Interactive Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories provide a dynamic way to engage with your audience in real-time. Use interactive features to spark conversation and keep your followers engaged.
Content Inspiration:
- Create a poll asking followers to vote on their favorite fall activities or dishes at your property.
- Use the question feature to ask for recommendations on their favorite fall destinations or seasonal experiences.
- Share quizzes or trivia related to fall, such as “Guess this fall flavor” or “Which autumn activity should you try?”
Pro tip: Don’t underestimate the power of interactive content when it comes to keeping your brand top of mind.
8. Behind-the-Scenes Fall Prep
Giving your followers a glimpse behind the curtain can be an engaging way to showcase the hard work that goes into preparing for the season.
Content Inspiration:
- Share a video tour of your property’s fall transformation, from putting up decorations to stocking seasonal amenities.
- Post a time-lapse video of your team setting up a fall event or creating a stunning harvest display.
- Highlight the local farmers, artisans, or vendors that supply the seasonal products you use in your food, drinks, or decor.
Pro tip: Harness the power of behind-the-scenes content to humanize your brand and create a more personal connection with your audience.
With a well-planned strategy focused on seasonal beauty and attractions, fall can be a content goldmine for hotels, resorts, and DMOs. Our team of social media experts can help you develop a top-notch fall content strategy that perfectly aligns with your business needs. If you’re ready to get started, let’s talk.