Looking for the best places to visit in October USA? Your search for the perfect fall trip ends here. Whether you’re chasing stunning foliage, craving cozy small-town vibes, or escaping the last stretch of summer heat, this is your definitive guide. The fall season is our favorite time for fall vacations, with fewer crowds, shoulder-season prices, and weather that’s simply perfect.
Over the years, we’ve planned many an October getaway, from road-tripping through New England’s fiery forests to hiking desert trails framed by golden aspens. If you’re wondering where to travel in October, we’ve rounded up 22 unforgettable destinations that deliver views, adventure, and festivities for your next trip.
Wondering where to travel in the USA in October?
From fall foliage in New England to sunny escapes in the Southwest, these top October vacation destinations offer perfect weather, fewer crowds, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you want colorful hikes, harvest festivals, or beach breaks, this guide has you covered.
Best Places to Visit in October USA: Top Picks at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the top destinations, categorized by what they do best.
Best for Peak Fall Foliage:
- The Berkshires, MA: Quintessential New England with rolling hills and art.
- Vermont: The iconic standard for autumn leaves and maple everything.
- Acadia National Park, ME: Rugged coastline meets fiery forests.
- Asheville, NC: Breathtaking views along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Shenandoah National Park, VA: Misty mountains and the famous Skyline Drive.
- White Mountains, NH: Home to the legendary Kancamagus Highway.
Best for Warm Weather & Sun:
- Greater Palm Springs, CA: Desert heat cools to perfection for pools and art.
- Austin, TX: Ideal patio weather for live music and festivals.
- St. Pete–Clearwater, FL: Sunny skies and sugar-sand beaches without the crowds.
Best for National Parks & Outdoor Adventure:
- Zion National Park, UT: Red rock canyons lined with golden cottonwoods.
- Jackson Hole, WY: Grand Teton views, golden aspens, and abundant wildlife.
- Eastern Sierra, CA: California’s hidden gem for fall color and solitude.
- Flagstaff, AZ: High-elevation foliage with Southwest charm.
- Sedona, AZ: Iconic red rocks contrasted with bright yellow leaves.
- Yellowstone National Park, WY: Geysers and wildlife without the summer crowds.
Best for City Breaks & Culture:
- Santa Fe, NM: Adobe architecture, art galleries, and crisp autumn air.
- New York City, NY: Cinematic fall vibes, from Central Park to Halloween parades.
- Denver, CO: Urban fun with easy access to alpine beauty.
- Portland, OR: Cozy cafés, vibrant markets, and moody fall atmosphere.
- Sonoma, CA: Wine harvest season in beautiful, golden vineyards.
- Newport, RI: Gilded Age mansions and stunning coastal walks.
- Charlottesville, VA: History, vineyards, and mountain views.
More Of The Best Places to Visit In The USA By Season
Introduction to October Travel in the USA
October is one of the best months to explore the USA. Summer crowds are gone, hotel rates drop, and fall colors light up the landscape from coast to coast. In the Northeast, the leaves explode in a riot of red, orange, and gold. Out West, national parks cool down just enough for epic hiking. And in the South, it’s finally patio season.
Whether you’re planning a mid-October getaway, a long weekend at the beginning of the month, or a shoulder-season road trip, there’s a perfect spot waiting. These 22 destinations capture the best of the season, so let’s dive in.
1. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
- Best for: Leaf Peeping, Antique Shopping, Arts & Culture
- October Weather: Crisp and cool, Avg. Highs 55-60°F (13?16°C)
- Why in October: Peak foliage typically arrives in the first half of the month, painting the rolling hills in brilliant colors.
Why Visit: We drove through the Berkshires one October and couldn’t stop pulling over for photos; the colorful foliage was that stunning. This corner of western Massachusetts is peak New England. If you want art, foliage, and flannel, this is the place for your fall getaway.
Top Things to Do
- Hike Monument Mountain
- Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum
- Go apple picking at local farms, or find cozy harvest festivals.
Insider Tip: This destination is great for the whole family. Book early for October weekends. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday.
2. Vermont
- Best for: Scenic Drives, Cozy Small Towns, Fall Flavors
- October Weather: Chilly and crisp, Avg. Highs 50-55°F (10?13°C)
- Why in October: This is the gold standard for fall foliage. Early October is often the absolute peak for color, especially along scenic Route 100.
Why Visit: We’ve never seen fall like we did in Vermont; it was like walking through a postcard. The small towns come alive with autumn charm, and the maple syrup is flowing. It’s an iconic fall trip destination for a reason.
Top Things to Do
- Drive Route 100 for foliage.
- Visit Stowe, Woodstock, or Manchester.
- Stop at a sugar shack or local cider mill for fresh cider and donuts.
Insider Tip: Peak foliage moves from north to south.
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
- Best for: Hiking, Coastal Scenery, Sunrises
- October Weather: Cool and often windy, Avg. Highs 50-55°F (10?13°C)
- Why in October: The clash of crimson foliage against the deep blue Atlantic is breathtaking. The crowds thin dramatically after Columbus Day.
Why Visit: We caught a sunrise over Cadillac Mountain wrapped in blankets, thermos in hand, and it remains one of our favorite travel memories. Acadia mixes rugged coastline with blazing foliage like nowhere else. We spent days hiking trails framed by fire-colored trees and evenings eating lobster rolls by the sea.
Top Things to Do
- Drive the Park Loop Road.
- Hike the Beehive Trail or Jordan Pond Loop.
- Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain (reservations required).
Insider Tip: Parking lots for popular trails like Jordan Pond fill up by 9 AM, even in October. Go early or use the free Island Explorer shuttle.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
- Best for: Mountain Vistas, Breweries, Live Music
- October Weather: Mild days and cool nights, Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C)
- Why in October: Fall color sweeps down the mountains, with peak views in mid-to-late October. The crisp air is perfect for hiking.
Why Visit: We stayed in a mountain cabin just outside Asheville and woke up to mist over the Blue Ridge every morning. Fall hits this region with full force. The city itself is artsy and relaxed, with craft breweries and murals around every corner. October here is like a hug from nature.
Top Things to Do
- Drive a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Hike in Pisgah National Forest.
- Visit the Biltmore Estate’s magnificent gardens. Many local breweries are family-friendly with large outdoor spaces.
Insider Tip: The Blue Ridge Parkway can get very congested on weekends. For a similar Appalachian vibe, also consider exploring nearby West Virginia, known for its rugged beauty.
5. Austin, Texas
- Best for: Live Music, Festivals, Outdoor Patios
- October Weather: Warm and sunny, Avg. Highs 75-85°F (24?29°C)
- Why in October: The summer heat finally breaks, bringing pleasant temperatures and perfect weather for enjoying the city’s outdoor culture.
Why Visit: We once visited Austin in October and didn’t want to leave. The weather was ideal, and every patio with outdoor seating was full. It’s perfect for outdoor dining, festivals, tacos, and scenic drives through the Hill Country.
Top Things to Do
- Attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival (if scheduled).
- Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake.
- Explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
Insider Tip: Make restaurant and hotel reservations far in advance, especially during festival weekends when the city books up completely.
6. Zion National Park, Utah
- Best for: Hiking, Dramatic Landscapes, Photography
- October Weather: Mild and sunny, Avg. Highs 65-75°F (18?24°C)
- Why in October: Cooler temperatures make iconic hikes more pleasant, crowds are thinner than in summer, and the golden cottonwoods along the Virgin River create a stunning contrast with the red rock canyons.
Why Visit: We hiked The Narrows one crisp October morning, the water icy, the canyon glowing gold, and it was absolutely unforgettable. Zion in October offers fewer crowds and cottonwoods that turn every trail into a golden tunnel. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
Top Things to Do
- Hike Angels Landing (permit required) or The Narrows.
- Drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Route.
- Stargaze at Kolob Canyons.
Insider Tip: Permits for Angels Landing are lottery-based and highly competitive. For an equally epic view with no permit, hike to Observation Point from the East Mesa Trailhead.
7. Greater Palm Springs, California
- Best for: Relaxation, Mid-Century Modern Architecture, Pool Time
- October Weather: Hot and dry, Avg. Highs 85-90°F (29?32°C)
- Why in October: The oppressive triple-digit heat of summer finally fades, leaving perfect, sun-drenched days for lounging by the pool or exploring the area’s famous architecture.
Why Visit: We lounged by a retro pool in Palm Springs in late October, and it felt like summer without the sweat. This desert escape is ideal once the heat becomes manageable. There’s hiking in nearby canyons, spa days, and sunset cocktails with mountain views. It’s chill, stylish, and surprisingly perfect for fall.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum.
- Hike Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon.
- Take the Aerial Tramway for panoramic views.
Insider Tip: Check the local calendar for Modernism Week’s Fall Preview. It’s a popular multi-day event celebrating the area’s architecture that often takes place in October.
8. Eastern Sierra, California
- Best for: Fall Foliage, Scenic Drives, Hot Springs
- October Weather: Variable; crisp days and cold nights, Avg. Highs 50-60°F (10?16°C)
- Why in October: This is when California’s golden aspens hit their absolute peak, especially around the June Lake Loop and Bishop Creek. The crowds are minimal, offering a true sense of escape.
Why Visit: Driving the June Lake Loop in October, we hit peak fall color and barely saw another car—just golden aspens and snowy peaks. The Eastern Sierra is California’s best-kept autumn secret. We camped near Mammoth Lakes, soaked in wild hot springs, and watched the sunrise over Mono Lake. If you love nature and solitude, this is where California shows off.
Top Things to Do
- Drive the June Lake Loop or Bishop Creek Canyon.
- Soak in Wild Willy’s Hot Springs.
- Explore Mono Lake and its bizarre tufa towers.
Insider Tip: Gas stations and services are few and far between on these scenic routes. Fill up your tank in Bishop or Mammoth Lakes before heading out.
9. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- Best for: Wildlife Viewing, Photography, National Parks
- October Weather: Cold and crisp, Avg. Highs 45-55°F (7?13°C), with a chance of snow.
- Why in October: It’s the quiet season between summer and winter. The famous elk rutting season is in full swing, and the golden aspens against the sharp Teton peaks are a photographer’s dream.
Why Visit: We visited Jackson Hole right before the snow hit, and the elk were bugling in the valley; it felt like stepping into a National Geographic spread. The aspens light up in gold, the Tetons stand sharp against a blue sky, and the crowds are blissfully gone. October is when this luxe mountain town slows down and opens up.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Grand Teton National Park.
- Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram for stunning views.
- Visit the National Elk Refuge.
Insider Tip: Pack for all four seasons. It’s not uncommon to experience warm sun, rain, and snow all in the same day. Many restaurants and shops have limited hours this month, so call ahead.
10. Flagstaff, Arizona
- Best for: Aspen Groves, Stargazing, Mountain Town Vibes
- October Weather: Cool and crisp, Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C)
- Why in October: Sitting at 7,000 feet, Flagstaff offers a classic fall experience with brilliant yellow aspens, a stark contrast to the typical Arizona desert landscape.
Why Visit: Flagstaff surprised us on a Southwest road trip. We expected desert but instead found golden aspens, crisp air, and cozy mountain vibes. We drove the scenic loop through the San Francisco Peaks, and it was like a fall postcard come to life. If you’re craving autumn color without the New England crowds, this is your hidden gem.
Top Things to Do
- Hike the Inner Basin Trail for peak foliage.
- Explore Lowell Observatory.
- Take a day trip to Walnut Canyon National Monument or the Grand Canyon.
Insider Tip: The fall foliage peaks early here due to the high elevation. For the best chance at seeing the golden aspens, aim for the first two weeks of October.
11. Sonoma, California
- Best for: Wine Tasting, Foodie Experiences, Relaxed Atmosphere
- October Weather: Mild and sunny, Avg. Highs 70-75°F (21?24°C)
- Why in October: It’s harvest season, and you might catch a wine festival. The wineries are buzzing, the vines are golden, and the weather is perfect for winery visits.
Why Visit: We visited Sonoma during the grape harvest, and the golden vineyards were absolutely glowing. It’s less crowded and more laid-back than Napa, but the wines are just as good. The farm-to-table food scene is at its absolute peak with the autumn harvest.
Top Things to Do
- Go wine tasting along the Sonoma Valley Wine Trail.
- Explore downtown Sonoma’s historic plaza.
- Drive the scenic Sonoma Coast for sweeping Pacific views.
Insider Tip: October is a popular time due to the harvest. Book wine tastings and dinner reservations well in advance, especially for well-known vineyards.
12. St. Pete–Clearwater, Florida
- Best for: Beaches, Relaxation, Art & Museums
- October Weather: Warm and humid, Avg. Highs 80-85°F (27?29°C)
- Why in October: You get summer-like weather with far fewer crowds and more affordable prices. The entire Gulf Coast, from here to Gulf Shores in southern Alabama, offers a similar opportunity for great deals.
Why Visit: After a week of fall foliage, we flew south and landed in paradise. St. Pete–Clearwater offers warm October weather and stunning Gulf Coast sunsets. No crowds, just powdery sand and seafood feasts by the water. If you’re craving sun with your pumpkin spice, this is your place.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the award-winning Clearwater Beach or Fort De Soto Park.
- Explore the impressive Dalí Museum in downtown St. Pete.
- Kayak through mangroves or paddleboard at sunset.
Insider Tip: October is technically the tail-end of hurricane season. The risk is lower, but it’s wise to book flexible travel and consider travel insurance just in case.
13. Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Best for: Art Galleries, Culture, New Mexican Cuisine
- October Weather: Sunny days and cold nights, Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C)
- Why in October: The high-desert light is famously beautiful this time of year, making the adobe buildings glow. The crisp, dry air is perfect for walking, and the scent of roasting green chiles fills the air.
Why Visit: We’ve returned to Santa Fe multiple times in October, and it never disappoints. The art scene on Canyon Road buzzes, and there’s nothing cozier than enjoying a bowl of green chile stew by a kiva fireplace after a day of exploring.
Top Things to Do
- Browse the hundreds of art galleries on Canyon Road.
- Hike in the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
- Join one of the many spooky ghost tours that explore the city’s historic streets.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss trying the local delicacy: green chile. You can find it on everything from cheeseburgers to apple pie. The hotter, the better!
14. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Best for: Scenic Drives, Hiking, Leaf Peeping
- October Weather: Mild to cool, Avg. Highs 55-65°F (13?18°C)
- Why in October: Peak fall foliage typically sweeps through the park from mid-to-late October, making for an unforgettable drive along the 105-mile Skyline Drive.
Why Visit: Driving Skyline Drive in mid-October was one of our most peaceful autumn road trips. The views stretch for miles across a sea of golden and crimson treetops. It’s perfect for leaf-peeping, wildlife spotting (we saw so many deer!), and pulling over every five minutes for another incredible photo.
Top Things to Do
- Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail.
- Climb Hawksbill Summit for the park’s best view.
- Cruise the entire length of Skyline Drive and explore the beautiful trails.
Insider Tip: Weekends are extremely busy. To avoid the worst of the peak season crowds, consider a fall trip to West Virginia’s New River Gorge or Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a similar Appalachian feel.
15. Sedona, Arizona
- Best for: Hiking, Spiritual Sites, Scenic Beauty
- October Weather: Pleasant and mild, Avg. Highs 70-75°F (21?24°C)
- Why in October: The temperatures are absolutely perfect for hiking—not too hot, not too cold. The fall colors in Oak Creek Canyon provide a stunning and unique contrast against the iconic red rock formations.
Why Visit: October is the sweet spot in Sedona. We hiked to Cathedral Rock at sunset and watched the sky and rocks glow in harmony. If you’re into energy vortexes, challenging hikes, or just jaw-dropping scenery, Sedona in the fall is pure magic.
Top Things to Do
- Hike to iconic spots like Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge.
- Take a Pink Jeep Tour through the backcountry.
- Explore the shops and galleries at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
Insider Tip: Parking at popular trailheads like Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock fills up extremely early. Plan to arrive before 7 AM or use the local shuttle service.
16. Denver, Colorado
- Best for: City Life, Craft Beer, Day Trips to Mountains
- October Weather: Variable; Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C), but can be much warmer or see early snow.
- Why in October: You get the best of both worlds: a vibrant city with a buzzing food and beer scene, plus easy access to the Rockies for a final glimpse of golden aspens (in early October) or early-season snow.
Why Visit: We used Denver as our base for a fall escape, and the mix of city fun and easy mountain day trips was ideal. You can spend the morning hiking a trail near Idaho Springs and be back in LoDo for a brewery crawl by afternoon.
Top Things to Do
- Day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park via Estes Park.
- Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens.
- Visit the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Insider Tip: Altitude is no joke. If you’re arriving from sea level, drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day to acclimate before heading on strenuous hikes.
17. Portland, Oregon
- Best for: Foodie Culture, Gardens, Urban Hiking
- October Weather: Cool and often damp, Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C)
- Why in October: The city fully embraces its “cozy season.” The fall foliage in its many parks is spectacular, and the moody, misty weather is perfect for ducking into a unique coffee shop or Powell’s City of Books.
Why Visit: We love Portland in October for the fiery foliage in Forest Park and the smell of rain on fallen leaves. The city feels moody in the best way. Foodies will be in heaven, and outdoor lovers can hike to waterfalls in the nearby Columbia River Gorge.
Top Things to Do
- Stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden.
- Sample fall flavors from local food trucks.
- Explore the trails in Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban forests.
Insider Tip: Always have a light waterproof jacket with you. Portland’s drizzles are frequent but rarely heavy enough to ruin a day of exploring.
18. New York City, New York
- Best for: Museums, Theater, Festive Atmosphere
- October Weather: Crisp and pleasant, Avg. Highs 60-65°F (16?18°C)
- Why in October: The weather is perfect for walking endless city blocks. The fall foliage in Central Park is cinematic, and the entire city buzzes with energy leading up to Halloween.
Why Visit: We’ve done NYC in every season, but October has that special magic. The crisp air feels invigorating, the brownstones in Brooklyn are decked out in spooky decorations, and the Halloween Parade in the Village is an unforgettable spectacle. It’s the New York you see in the movies.
Top Things to Do
- Walk the High Line and see the fall colors in Central Park.
- Catch a Broadway show or see the Village Halloween Parade.
- Take a spooky ghost tour through the city’s oldest neighborhoods.
Insider Tip: Dress in layers. October mornings can be quite chilly, but afternoons can warm up significantly, especially when walking in the sun.
19. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Best for: Wildlife Watching, Geothermal Features, Quiet Exploration
- October Weather: Cold, Avg. Highs 40-50°F (4?10°C), with snow being common and expected.
- Why in October: It’s your last chance to see the park before it closes for winter. Most tourists are gone, offering a rare sense of solitude as you watch bison and elk against a backdrop of steaming geysers and, often, snow.
Why Visit: We visited Yellowstone in early October and felt like we had the place to ourselves. The elk were bugling, the bison were roaming with coats of frost, and the geysers steamed intensely in the cold morning air. It’s a wilder, more primal version of the park.
Top Things to Do
- See Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring without the crowds.
- Watch for wolves and bears in Lamar and Hayden Valleys.
- Hike to Fairy Falls.
Insider Tip: Be prepared for road closures. Major park roads begin closing for the season in mid-October. Check the NPS website for the exact dates and plan your route accordingly. While rare, check the aurora forecast; a powerful solar storm could bring a faint glow of the northern lights.
20. Newport, Rhode Island
- Best for: Coastal Walks, Historic Mansions, Sailing Culture
- October Weather: Cool and breezy, Avg. Highs 55-60°F (13?16°C)
- Why in October: The summer crowds have vanished, leaving the stunning Cliff Walk and opulent mansions peaceful. The coastal foliage adds a beautiful, crisp accent to the seaside scenery.
Why Visit: We explored Newport’s famous Cliff Walk on a windy October morning—waves crashing below, golden leaves fluttering overhead—and it was magical. The coastal mansions, historic harbor, and crisp fall air give it a Gilded Age-meets-Halloween vibe. It’s quieter than summer but still lively.
Top Things to Do
- Walk the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk.
- Tour the Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers.
- Visit Bowen’s Wharf for fresh oysters and shopping, or take a lantern-lit spooky ghost tour.
Insider Tip: October is a popular month for fall weddings in Newport. For the best rates and a more peaceful getaway, book your stay midweek.
21. Charlottesville, Virginia
- Best for: Wineries, History Buffs, Mountain Views
- October Weather: Mild and pleasant, Avg. Highs 65-70°F (18?21°C)
- Why in October: The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains are ablaze with peak fall color, and it’s an ideal time for visiting the many wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail.
Why Visit: We stumbled into Charlottesville during a fall road trip and ended up staying three nights, it’s that kind of place. The Blue Ridge Mountains turn orange and gold, and the town itself is packed with charm and history. The sunsets over the vineyards are unreal.
Top Things to Do
- Drive a portion of Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
- Go wine tasting on the Monticello Wine Trail.
Insider Tip: You absolutely must stop at Carter Mountain Orchard. They have the best apple cider donuts and a hilltop perch with one of the most incredible views of the city and mountains.
22. White Mountains, New Hampshire
- Best for: Peak Foliage, Scenic Drives, Challenging Hikes
- October Weather: Chilly, Avg. Highs 45-55°F (7?13°C), especially at elevation.
- Why in October: This region offers some of the most intense and celebrated fall foliage in the entire country, peaking in early to mid-October. The Kancamagus Highway is legendary for a reason.
Why Visit: Driving the Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains is one of the most unforgettable fall experiences we’ve ever had. Every curve in the road reveals another photo op. Hiking trails here reward you with sweeping views of the most vibrant foliage in New England. This place is the very definition of peak fall.
Top Things to Do
- Drive the 34.5-mile Kancamagus Scenic Byway.
- Hike the Franconia Ridge Loop (for experienced hikers) or the shorter Mount Willard trail.
- Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Insider Tip: “Leaf peeper” traffic is intense on weekends. Drive the Kancamagus Highway early in the morning on a weekday to avoid the worst of the traffic jams.
From leaf-peeping in New England to wine tasting in California and spooky strolls through historic cities, October might just be the ideal time to travel in the U.S. It’s one of our favorite months to hit the road. The weather is often Goldilocks-perfect—not too hot, not too cold—letting you hike, sip, swim, or just chill in your flannel and enjoy the view.
Wherever you decide to go, remember to book accommodations early for popular weekend destinations, pack layers for unpredictable weather, and embrace the season’s slower, cozier pace.
Happy travels! For musical inspiration on your journeys, check out this curated travel playlist.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in October in The USA
New England is the classic choice for peak fall colors in October. The best spots include Vermont (especially Route 100), the White Mountains in New Hampshire (Kancamagus Highway), and the Berkshires in Massachusetts. For later in the month, try Asheville, NC and Shenandoah National Park, VA.
If you’re chasing sunshine, October is ideal for Greater Palm Springs, CA, Austin, TX, and St. Pete–Clearwater, FL. These destinations offer warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of summer.
Absolutely. October is one of the best months for visiting national parks. Popular parks like Zion, Acadia, Yellowstone, and Shenandoah see significantly fewer crowds, have cooler temperatures for hiking, and often showcase spectacular fall colors.
You can find great deals and affordable prices in “shoulder season” destinations. Cities in the South like Austin or beach towns like St. Pete and Gulf Shores see prices drop after the summer months. Visiting national parks on weekdays can also be more affordable.
It depends on the location. For northern states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, early to mid-October is typically peak. For mid-Atlantic and southern spots like Virginia and North Carolina, mid-to-late October is better. High-altitude destinations like Flagstaff and Jackson Hole also peak earlier in the month.
October is fantastic for family travel. The Berkshires offers farms and easy hikes. Shenandoah National Park has scenic drives and wildlife spotting. Portland, Oregon has fun markets and gardens. Many of these spots have fall festivals, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches perfect for kids.
Layers are key! Weather can be unpredictable. A typical packing list should include a mix of t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof or windproof jacket. If you’re hiking, bring sturdy shoes. Even in warm destinations, evenings can be cool.
