15 Best Places to Visit in October USA (2024)

Looking for the best places to visit in October in the US? We’ve got you covered. From the colorful landscapes of New England to the charming coastal towns and festivals in the South, we will show you the top fall destinations. Expect beautiful fall colors, fun events, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Our Picks For The Best Places to Travel In October In The US

If you’re looking for vibrant foliage and outdoor fun, New England (think The Berkshires and Vermont) is your go-to spot. The Southern destinations like Savannah and Dallas are perfect for cultural events and unique experiences, offering charm and festivity in October. And if you’re up for some natural beauty and outdoor adventure, the Western US (Zion National Park and Greater Palm Springs) has got you covered.

New England Fall Foliage

New England is fall foliage country. The region turns into a colorful wonderland, and visitors from all over the world come to see it. Crisp air, perfect weather for outdoor activities, and scenery galore define the season. Whether you drive the scenic roads or explore the charming towns, New England is an autumn to remember.

The Berkshires

The Berkshires in Massachusetts is a top fall destination, and it’s easy to see why. Driving through the hills, you’ll see spectacular fall colors. The region is dotted with apple orchards and pumpkin patches, so there’s plenty of seasonal fun. Whether apple picking, cider sipping, or historical site, seeing a fall tour through The Berkshires is the ultimate New England autumn experience.

Driving The Berkshires is a must. The roads wind and twist and there’s a stunning view at every turn so it’s a photographer’s and nature lover’s paradise. The number one place to visit in the fall is the Berkshires, which should be on your list for an October trip.

Vermont

Vermont is another gem in New England’s treasure trove. Known for its charming towns and beautiful landscapes, Vermont comes alive in October with fall foliage that attracts visitors from all over the world. The state turns into a painter’s canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, and it’s best enjoyed through hiking, biking, and scenic drives.

Local festivals add to the charm, and you can taste Vermont’s cultural heritage. From wine tasting at local wineries to artisanal cheese and local art, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the local flavor. If you want to experience the full spectrum of fall, Vermont is the place to go.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is a nature lover’s paradise in the fall. The park’s natural beauty is enhanced by fall foliage and has great views for a drive or day trip. With its panoramic views and varied landscapes, Acadia is the perfect backdrop for fall fun.

Hiking is big in Acadia, with trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the park’s trails have great views of the fall landscape. For a national park with fall colors Acadia should be on your list.

Southern Charm and Festivals

The Southern US is the season of charm and festivals, often considered the shoulder season. With great weather and lots of cultural events, this is the time to relax and get excited. From music festivals to state fairs there’s always something that’s Southern.

Dallas, Texas, has fall festivals galore, including the famous State Fair of Texas. Austin, with its vibrant cultural scene, has big events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Savannah, Georgia, with its historic charm and ghostly legends, has a mix of spooky fun and cultural enrichment.

These cities are the perfect place for an October trip.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is all about historical charm and spooky mystique. Known for its beautiful streets and ghostly legends, Savannah has ghost tours, haunted hotels, and a haunted pub crawl. Late October is the time to check out these spooky attractions and get immersed in the city’s history.

The Savannah Film Festival is another October highlight and attracts filmmakers and fans from all over the country. With its historic sites and cultural events, Savannah is a special fall experience.

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, gets going in the fall with lots of events and festivals. The weather is mild so it’s perfect for horseback riding through the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Whether hiking local trails or attending a live music show, Austin has something for everyone.

October is big in Austin, with the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Texas Book Festival bringing in crowds from all over. With lots of accommodations to fit any budget Austin is a great place for a fall trip.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina, has natural beauty and cultural wealth. Known for its food scene and local arts, Asheville is a foodie and art lover’s paradise. Fall is the time to check out the city’s many restaurants, galleries, and studios.

The area’s rivers and streams are great for fly fishing and attract fishermen from all over. Whether casting a line or eating farm-to-table, Asheville has a great fall.

Western Wonders

The Western US is a treasure of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From the desert landscapes of Greater Palm Springs to the mountainous Eastern Sierras the region has it all. Mid-October is the time to visit with nice weather and fewer crowds.

Zion National Park is a Western highlight with its stunning landscapes and many trails. Whether you want panoramic views or outdoor thrills, the Western US has something for everyone.

Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs, California, is a desert getaway with warm weather and lots of outdoor activities in October. From shopping and dining to hiking and museums, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Accommodations are plentiful, from luxury wellness resorts to boutique hotels. Whether you’re hiking in the desert or lounging by the pool, Greater Palm Springs is the perfect fall escape.

The Eastern Sierras, California

The Eastern Sierras of California are famous for their fall colors and scenic drives. Highway 395 has views and access to the natural beauty, so it’s a popular route in October.

Outdoor activities galore from hiking and fishing to visiting iconic spots like Yosemite National Park. The Eastern Sierras are a must see for anyone who wants to experience fall in California.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park, with its beautiful landscapes and fall colors, is a hiker’s heaven. The park has many scenic trails to showcase its rock formations and views.

October is the time to visit Zion, which has nice weather for outdoor activities. Whether hiking, driving the scenic route, or just taking in the views, Zion National Park is a top fall destination.

Coastal Escapes

Coastal destinations in the US have relaxation and adventure in the fall. With cooler weather and fewer crowds, these places are perfect for an October trip. From white sand beaches to quaint coastal towns, there’s something for everyone along the US coast.

St. Pete-Clearwater in Florida, Portland in Maine, and Sonoma in California are coastal highlights. Each has its own unique experiences, from water activities and cultural festivals to scenic drives and wine tastings. Fall is the time to check out these coastal treasures.

St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida

St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida is a lively coastal spot with beautiful white sand beaches and a rich cultural scene. When we visited, we had a blast trying stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The sunset cruises were absolutely breathtaking, and the speedboat rides added an extra thrill to our trip. One of the highlights was the SHINE Mural Festival, which transformed the city into an outdoor museum with its vibrant murals. With so many great places to stay, St. Pete-Clearwater is the perfect fall escape.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, is the quintessential New England experience with its coastal charm and fall colors. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, local culture, and coastal views.

Home to 65 lighthouses, Portland is a pretty backdrop for fall sightseeing. Whether you’re feasting on seafood or exploring the coast, Portland is a charming fall destination.

Sonoma, California

Sonoma, California, is famous for its vineyards and wine tastings. The vineyards turn into a fall color wonderland so it’s a great backdrop for wine tours and tastings.

In addition to wine tastings, Sonoma has seasonal culinary events that feature local produce. Whether you’re exploring the vineyards or savoring local specialties, Sonoma is a fall delight.

Unique Experiences

For something special fall in the US has got you covered. From wildlife encounters in Jackson Hole to scenic drives in Flagstaff, there’s something for everyone. There are fewer crowds, amazing views, and the chance to get immersed in local culture.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is famous for its wildlife experiences and natural hot springs. Flagstaff, Arizona, has fall air and fall colors. Dallas, Texas, has outdoor activities and cultural events, so it’s a great fall destination.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a pretty spot with many outdoor activities and wildlife experiences. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding tours and family-friendly options, and they can see majestic animals in their natural habitat.

After a day of adventure, relaxing in the natural hot springs is the perfect way to unwind. Jackson Hole is a one-of-a-kind fall experience.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona, is a fall favorite with its fall air and scenic views along the drives. The fall colors make it a great place to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Whether you’re driving doing outdoor activities, or enjoying one of the many cool day trips, Flagstaff is a great fall escape.

Dallas, Texas

Dallas, Texas, has luxury accommodations, outdoor activities, and cultural events. Visitors can hike, explore gardens and parks, and visit the zoo. The State Fair of Dallas is a cultural event that showcases Texas pride and tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes October a good month for travel in the US?

October is a fantastic month for travel in the US due to its mild temperatures, vibrant fall colors, and reduced crowds, allowing for a more enjoyable and relaxing experience.

What are the best places to see fall foliage in New England?

For breathtaking fall foliage in New England, you can’t miss the Berkshires, Vermont, and Acadia National Park. These locations showcase nature’s vibrant colors beautifully.

Are there any notable festivals in the Southern US during October?

Absolutely! The Southern US boasts fantastic October festivals like the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, the Austin City Limits Music Festival, and the Savannah Film Festival, offering vibrant cultural experiences you won’t want to miss.

Can you recommend any coastal destinations for an October vacation?

For an unforgettable October vacation, consider St. Pete-Clearwater in Florida, Portland in Maine, or Sonoma in California. Each offers stunning coastal views and unique experiences perfect for the season.

What unique experiences can I find in the Western US during the fall?

In the fall, the Western US invites you to embrace unique experiences like fly fishing in Jackson Hole, enjoying scenic drives through the Eastern Sierras, and hiking the stunning trails of Zion National Park.

Our Opinion

October is a great time to see the many landscapes and cultures of the US. From the fall colors of New England to the festivals of the South, the natural beauty of the West, and coastal escapes, there’s something for everyone. Each destination has special experiences that make fall travel unique.

So whether you want to relax, adventure, or be culturally enriched, October is the month to do it. Start planning your fall trip now and see the best of the US this fall.