Are you trying to figure out where to go in October in the United States? This is the place to find the ideal fall vacation. This is your go-to resource whether you’re looking to escape the end of the summer heat, chase gorgeous foliage, or experience the charms of a tiny town. Our favorite time of year for fall holidays is in the fall because of the ideal weather, shoulder-season rates, and fewer tourists.
We’ve organized a lot of October vacations throughout the years, including road trips through the flaming forests of New England and hikes along desert paths bordered by golden aspens. For your next trip, we’ve compiled a list of 22 must-see locations that provide adventure, celebrations, and breathtaking views if you’re wondering where to go in October.
Top Destinations in the USA for October: A Quick Look at the Best
Here is a brief summary of the best places to visit, arranged according to their specialties.
Ideal for Foliage at Peak Fall:
- The Berkshires, Massachusetts: Popularly known for its undulating hills and artistic creations
- Vermont: The quintessential standard for things maple and fall foliage.
- Acadia National Park, ME:Ā Firey woodlands meet a rugged coastline
- Asheville, North Carolina: The Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views.
- Shenandoah National Park, VA: Misty mountains and the well-known Skyline Drive
- White Mountains, New Hampshire: The fabled Kancamagus Highway
Ideal for Sun and Warm Weather:
- Greater Palm Springs, CA: The cool desert air is ideal for art and swimming pools.
- Austin, Texas: Great weather for festivals and live music on the terrace.
- St. PeteāClearwater, FL: Sunny skies and uncrowded sugar-sand beaches.
Top Picks for Outdoor Adventure & National Parks:
- Zion National Park, Utah: Golden cottonwoods border the red granite canyons.
- Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Grand Teton views, golden aspens, and a wealth of animals.
- Eastern Sierra, CA:Ā California’s undiscovered treasure for seclusion and fall foliage.
- Flagstaff, Arizona: Southwest charm with high alpine flora.
- Sedona, Arizona: Bright yellow foliage contrasts with iconic red cliffs.
- Yellowstone National Park, WY: Wildlife and geysers without the summer tourists.
Ideal for Cultural Events & City Breaks:
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: Ā Art galleries, Adobe architecture, and the cool fall air.
- New York City, NY:Ā From Halloween parades to Central Park, the city exudes a cinematic autumn atmosphere.
- Denver, Colorado:Ā Easy access to alpine beauty combined with urban excitement.
- Portland, Oregon:Ā Quaint cafes, lively marketplaces, and a somber fall ambiance.
- Sonoma, CA:Ā Wine harvest season in stunning, golden vineyards in Sonoma, California.
- Newport, Rhode Island:Ā Magnificent coastline walkways and homes from the Gilded Age.
- Charlottesville, Virginia: Views of the mountains, wineries, and history.
Additional Top Destinations in the United States by Season
Overview of October Travel in the United States
One of the greatest times of year to travel to the USA is around October. From coast to coast, the countryside is illuminated by fall hues, summer crowds have dispersed, and hotel costs have decreased. The leaves in the Northeast burst into a blaze of gold, orange, and crimson. National parks in the West cool down just enough for fantastic hiking. Additionally, patio season has officially arrived in the South.
There is the ideal location waiting, whether you are planning a road trip during the shoulder season, a long weekend at the start of the month, or a retreat in mid-October. Let’s explore these 22 locations, which showcase the season’s best.
1. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
- Best for:Ā Arts & Culture, Antique Shopping, and Leaf Peeping
- October Weather:Ā Chilly and crisp, with average highs of 55 to 60Ā°F (13 to 16Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā The first half of the month usually sees the arrival of peak foliage, which brilliantly colors the undulating hills.
Why Visit:Ā The Berkshires’ vibrant foliage was so breathtaking that we couldn’t resist stopping for pictures when we drove through them in October. This is the pinnacle of New England in western Massachusetts. This is the location for your fall retreat if you like flannel, art, and foliage.
Top Things to Do
- Hiking Monument Mountain
- Go to the Museum of Norman Rockwell.
- Visit nearby farms to pick apples, or look for welcoming harvest celebrations.
Insider Tip:Ā The whole family will love this place. For weekends in October, make reservations in advance. See it during the week for a more sedate experience.
2. Vermont
- Best for:Ā Beautiful Roads, Adorable Little Towns, and Fall Tastes
- October Weather: Crisp and cold, with average highs of 50ā55Ā°F (10ā13Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā When it comes to fall foliage, this is the best. The color is usually at its best in early October, especially along picturesque Route 100.
Why Visit:Ā Vermont’s fall was unlike any we’ve ever seen; it was like strolling into a postcard. The maple syrup is flowing, and the tiny villages come alive with the splendor of fall. There’s a reason it’s a popular destination for fall vacations.
Top Things to Do
- For foliage, drive Route 100.
- Go to Manchester, Woodstock, or Stowe.
- For fresh cider and donuts, visit a nearby cider mill or sugar shack.
Insider Tip: From north to south, peak foliage shifts.
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
- Best for:Ā Sunrises, Hiking, and Coastal Scenery
- October Weather: Cool, frequently windy, with average highs of 50ā55Ā°F (10ā13Ā°C)
- Why in October:Ā It is stunning to see the scarlet foliage contrasted with the deep blue Atlantic. After Columbus Day, the crowds drastically decrease.
Why Visit: With a thermos in hand and blankets wrapped around us, we witnessed a dawn above Cadillac Mountain, and it continues to be one of our greatest travel moments. Nowhere else does Acadia combine a rocky shoreline with fiery vegetation. We ate lobster rolls by the sea in the evenings and hiked routes bordered by trees that were the color of fire for days.
Top Things to Do
- Take the Park Loop Road.
- Take a hike on the Jordan Pond Loop or Beehive Trail.
- Make reservations to see the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain.
Insider Tip:Ā Even in October, parking lots for well-known trails, such as Jordan Pond, are packed by 9 AM. Use the complimentary Island Explorer bus or arrive early.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
- Best for:Ā Live Music, Breweries, and Mountain Views
- October Weather:Ā Cool evenings and mild days, on average. 60ā65Ā°F (16ā18Ā°C) highs
- Why in October:Ā Peak vistas occur in mid-to-late October as the mountains are swept with fall color. Hiking is ideal in the cool weather.
Why Visit:Ā Every morning, we woke up to mist over the Blue Ridge at our mountain cabin just outside of Asheville. This area gets impacted by the fall with full force. The city itself is laid-back and artistic, with murals and artisan breweries wherever you look. Here, October is like an embrace from the natural world.
Top Things to Do
- Take the Blue Ridge Parkway for a drive.
- Trek across the National Forest of Pisgah.
- Explore the stunning gardens of the Biltmore Estate. There are many family-friendly breweries in the area with spacious outdoor areas.
Insider Tip: On weekends, traffic on the Blue Ridge Parkway can be extremely heavy. Consider visiting neighboring West Virginia, which is renowned for its untamed beauty, for a similar Appalachian feel.
5. Austin, Texas
- Best for:Ā Festivals, live music, and outdoor patios
- October Weather:Ā Sunny and warm, with average highs of 75ā85Ā°F (24ā29Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā Finally, the summer heat subsides, bringing with it comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for taking in the city’s outdoor culture.
Why Visit:Ā We went to Austin once in October and were reluctant to leave. Every patio with outside seating was packed, and the weather was perfect. Tacos, festivals, outdoor dining, and picturesque Hill Country drives are all made possible by it.
Top Things to Do
- If it’s scheduled, go to the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
- On Lady Bird Lake, paddleboard.
- Discover the Greenbelt at Barton Creek.
Insider Tip:Ā Make reservations for hotels and restaurants well in advance, particularly during festival weekends when the city is entirely booked.
6. Zion National Park, Utah
- Best for:Ā Photography, Hiking, and Dramatic Landscapes
- October Weather:Ā Sunny and mild, with average highs of 65 to 75Ā°F (18 to 24Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā The Virgin River’s golden cottonwoods provide a striking contrast to the red rock canyons, crowds are less compared to summer, and famous walks are more enjoyable in cooler weather.
Why Visit: On a clear October morning, with the canyon shining gold and the river frigid, we hiked The Narrows, and the experience was truly remarkable. In October, Zion is less crowded, and the cottonwoods make every route seem like a golden tunnel. You feel small in the greatest manner imaginable in this kind of location.
Top Things to Do
- Angels of Hiking The Narrows or landing (permission required).
- Take the scenic route through Zion Canyon.
- Look at the stars at Kolob Canyons.
Insider Tip:Ā 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:Ā Leisure, modern architecture from the mid-century, Time at the Pool
- October Weather:Ā Dry and hot, with average highs of 85ā90Ā°F (29ā32Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā Finally, the summer’s brutal triple-digit heat subsides, bringing with it sunny days ideal for seeing the area’s renowned architecture or relaxing by the pool.
Why Visit:Ā In late October, we relaxed by a vintage pool in Palm Springs, where it felt like summer without the heat. Once the heat is under control, this desert getaway is perfect. Hiking in neighboring canyons, spa treatments, and sunset cocktails with views of the mountains are all available. It’s cool, fashionable, and unexpectedly appropriate for fall.
Top Things to Do
- Go to the Art Museum in Palm Springs.
- Trek Tahquitz Canyon or Indian Canyons.
- To see sweeping views, ride the Aerial Tramway.
Insider Tip:Ā For the Fall Preview of Modernism Week, check the local calendar. Usually held in October, it is a well-liked multi-day celebration of the region’s architecture.
8. Eastern Sierra, California
- Best for:Ā Hot Springs, scenic drives, and fall foliage
- October Weather:Ā Variables include cool nights and crisp days, with average highs around 50ā60Ā°F (10ā16Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā During this time, California’s golden aspens reach their zenith, particularly in the vicinity of Bishop Creek and the June Lake Loop. A genuine sensation of escape is provided by the sparse crowds.
Why Visit:Ā When we drove the June Lake Loop in October, the fall foliage was at its height, and we hardly encountered any other vehiclesājust snowy peaks and golden aspens. California’s best-kept fall secret is the Eastern Sierra. We watched the sunrise over Mono Lake, soaked in untamed hot springs, and set our camp close to Mammoth Lakes. This is where California shines if you enjoy the outdoors and isolation.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Bishop Creek Canyon or the June Lake Loop by car.
- Relax in the hot springs at Wild Willy’s.
- Discover Mono Lake’s strange tufa structures.
Insider Tip:Ā There aren’t many gas stations or services along these picturesque roads. Before you leave, fill up your tank at Bishop or Mammoth Lakes.
9. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- Best for:Ā Observing wildlife, taking pictures, and visiting national parks
- October Weather:Ā Crisp and cold, average. There is a risk of snow with highs between 45 and 55Ā°F (7.13Ā°C).
- Why in October:Ā This is the peaceful time of year between summer and winter. The golden aspens against the jagged Teton peaks are a photographer’s paradise during the renowned elk rutting season.
Why Visit:Ā It was like entering a National Geographic spread when we went to Jackson Hole just before the snow fell and the elk were bugling in the valley. The crowds are happily gone, the Tetons stand out against a blue sky, and the aspens glow gold. This upscale mountain town calms down and opens up in October.
Top Things to Do
- Explore the National Park of Grand Teton.
- For breathtaking views, take the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.
- Go to the Elk Refuge National Park.
Insider Tip:Ā Make sure you pack for every season. It’s not unusual to have snow, rain, and warm sunshine on the same day. Call in advance because many stores and eateries have limited hours this month.
10. Flagstaff, Arizona
- Best for: Aspen Groves, Mountain Town Feelings, and Stargazing
- October Weather: Crisp and cool, with average highs of 60ā65Ā°F (16ā18Ā°C).
- Why in October: At 7,000 feet, Flagstaff provides a traditional fall experience with bright yellow aspens, which stands in sharp contrast to the usual desert scenery of Arizona.
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 youāre craving autumn color without the New England crowds, this is your hidden gem.
Top Things to Do
- For the best foliage, hike the Inner Basin Trail.
- Investigate Lowell Observatory.
- Visit the Grand Canyon or Walnut Canyon National Monument for the day.
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 Wine tasting, culinary adventures, and a laid-back atmosphere
- October Weather: Sunny and mild, with average highs of 70ā75Ā°F (21ā24Ā°C).
- Why in October: There may be a wine festival during harvest season. The weather is ideal for visiting vineyards, the vines are golden, and the wineries are bustling.
Why Visit: The golden vineyards in Sonoma were dazzling when we visited during the grape harvest. The wines are equally good, but it’s less crowded and more relaxed than Napa. The autumn harvest is the pinnacle of the farm-to-table culinary landscape.
Top Things to Do
- Take the Sonoma Valley Wine Trail for a wine tasting.
- Explore the historic plaza in downtown Sonoma.
- For expansive vistas of the Pacific, drive along the picturesque Sonoma Coast.
Insider Tip:
Because of the harvest, October is a popular month.Make arrangements for meals and wine tastings well in advance, particularly for renowned vineyards.
- Best for: Beaches, leisure, museums, and art
- October Weather: With average highs of 80ā85Ā°F (27ā29Ā°C), it’s warm and muggy.
- Why in October: The weather is similar to summer, but there are less people and the costs are lower. Similar opportunities for fantastic bargains may be found along the whole Gulf Coast, from here to Gulf Shores in southern Alabama.
Why Visit: We flew south after a week of fall colors and arrived in paradise. Beautiful Gulf Coast sunsets and pleasant October weather may be seen in St. PeteāClearwater. Just powdery beach and seafood feasts by the water, no crowds. This is the place to go if you’re wanting sun with your pumpkin spice.
Top Things to Do
- Visit Fort De Soto Park or the acclaimed Clearwater Beach.
- Discover the magnificent DalĆ Museum located in the heart of St. Petersburg.
- Paddleboard at sunset or kayak through mangroves.
Insider Tip: Technically, hurricane season ends in October. Although there is less risk, it is still advisable to plan for flexible travel and to think about purchasing travel insurance as a precaution.
13. Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Best for: Galleries of Art, Culture, and New Mexican Food
- October Weather: Daytime sunshine and chilly evenings, with average highs of 60ā65Ā°F (16ā18Ā°C)
- Why in October: This time of year, the adobe houses shimmer in the renownedly stunning high-desert light. The smell of roasting green chiles permeates the air, and the crisp, dry air is ideal for strolling.
Why Visit: Santa Fe never lets us down, and we’ve been back several times in October. Canyon Road’s art scene is thriving, and after a day of wandering, nothing is cozier than a bowl of green chile stew by a kiva fireplace.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Canyon Road’s hundreds of art galleries.
- Trek through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which are close by.
- Take one of the many eerie ghost tours that take you through the city’s old streets.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget to sample the regional specialty, green chile. It’s present in everything from apple pie to cheeseburgers. Hotter is preferable!
14. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Best for: Beautiful Roads, Trekking and Leaf-Peeking
- October Weather: Warm to cool, with average highs of 55ā65Ā°F (13ā18Ā°C).
- Why in October: Mid-to-late October is usually when the park’s peak fall foliage appears, making the 105-mile Skyline trip an amazing trip.
Why Visit: One of the most tranquil autumn road drives we took was down Skyline Drive in the middle of October. A sea of scarlet and golden treetops can be seen for miles. It’s ideal for seeing animals (we spotted a lot of deer!), leaf-peeping, and stopping every five minutes to take another amazing picture.
Top Things to Do
- A portion of the Appalachian Trail should be hiked.
- For the greatest perspective of the park, ascend Hawksbill Summit.
- Explore the stunning trails and take a cruise down Skyline Drive.
Insider Tip: Weekends are really hectic. For a comparable Appalachian experience, think about visiting Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park or West Virginia’s New River Gorge in the fall to avoid the worst of the peak season crowds.
15. Sedona, Arizona
- Best for: Spiritual Sites, Hiking, and Scenic Beauty
- October Weather: Mild and pleasant, with average highs of 70ā75Ā°F (21ā24Ā°C).
- Why in October: The weather is ideal for hikingāit’s neither too hot nor too cold. In contrast to the famous red rock formations, Oak Creek Canyon’s fall foliage offers a striking and distinctive contrast.
Why Visit:Ā Sedona’s sweet spot is October. At dusk, we climbed to Cathedral Rock to observe the harmonious glow of the rocks and sky. If you enjoy strenuous walks, energy vortexes, or simply breathtaking views, Sedona in the fall is a magical place.
Top Things to Do
- Trek to well-known locations like Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock.
- Wander the backcountry on a Pink Jeep Tour.
- Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village’s stores and galleries.
Insider Tip: Parking spots at well-known trailheads, such as Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge, fill up quite early. If possible, try to get there before 7 AM or take the local shuttle.
16. Denver, Colorado
- Best for: Craft Beer, City Life, Mountain Day Trips
- October Weather: Variable; temperatures might be significantly warmer or see early snowfall, with average highs of 60ā65Ā°F (16ā18Ā°C).
- Why in October: With a thriving metropolis with a thriving food and drink scene and close access to the Rockies for a last look at early-season snow or golden aspens (in early October), you get the best of both worlds.
Why Visit: Denver served as our headquarters for our fall getaway, and it was the perfect balance of simple mountain day trips and fun downtown activities. You can return to LoDo for a brewery crawl in the afternoon after hiking a route close to Idaho Springs in the morning.
Top Things to Do
- Journey through Estes Park to Rocky Mountain National Park for the day.
- Visit the Botanic Gardens in Denver.
- See the well-known Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Insider Tip: Altitude is serious business. Drink lots of water and take it slowly on your first day to adjust before beginning difficult hikes if you’re traveling from sea level.
Wherever you decide to go, remember to book accommodations early for popular weekend destinations, pack layers for unpredictable weather, and embrace the seasonās slower, cozier pace.
Happy travels! For musical inspiration on your journeys, check out this curated travel playlist.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Best Destinations in the United States in October
In October, where in the United States is the finest place to see fall foliage?
The traditional option for October’s peak fall color scheme is New England. The best places include the Berkshires in Massachusetts, the White Mountains in New Hampshire (Kancamagus Highway), and Vermont (particularly Route 100). Try Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and Asheville, North Carolina, later in the month.
Which US destinations offer the finest warm-weather travel in October?
October is the best month for Greater Palm Springs, CA, Austin, TX, and St. PeteāClearwater, FL if you’re looking for sunshine. These locations provide pleasant, bright days that are ideal for outdoor pursuits without the stifling summer heat.
Is October an ideal month to visit the national parks in the United States?
Of course. One of the greatest times of year to explore national parks is around October. Well-known parks like Zion, Acadia, Yellowstone, and Shenandoah are far less crowded, offer lower hiking temperatures, and frequently feature breathtaking fall foliage.
Which destination is the most affordable in October?
“Shoulder season” locations provide fantastic bargains and reasonable costs. After the summer, prices in Southern cities like Austin and coastal communities like St. Pete and Gulf Shores decrease. Weekday visits to national parks may also be less expensive.
Which is better for fall colors, early or late October?
The location determines this. The peak season usually occurs in early to mid-October in northern states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Mid-to-late October is ideal for southern and mid-Atlantic locations, such as North Carolina and Virginia. Earlier in the month is also when high-altitude locations like Flagstaff and Jackson Hole reach their peak.
In October, where can I take the kids?
October is a great month for family vacations. There are farms and simple treks in the Berkshires. There are beautiful roads and opportunities to see wildlife at Shenandoah National Park. Fun markets and gardens can be found in Portland, Oregon. Many of these locations feature kid-friendly pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and fall festivals.
What should I bring on an October trip to the United States?
Layers are essential! The weather is not always predictable. A combination of t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof or windproof jacket should be on every packing list. Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to hike. Even in warm places, it can get chilly at night.
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