Where To Travel In October In USA?

Are you wondering where to travel in October in the USA? SIXT.VN offers insider tips on the best destinations for fall foliage, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds, ensuring unforgettable travel experiences. Discover charming towns and vibrant cities with SIXT.VN’s travel advice and create amazing fall travel plans.

1. Discover The Charm Of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry West Virginia with colorful fall foliage

Do you want to experience a glimpse of old America at its most picturesque? Harper’s Ferry, located where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, offers charming historic streets, quaint shops, and old-fashioned stores. The fall foliage this time of year is stunning. According to the National Park Service, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

1.1 What Activities Can You Enjoy in Harper’s Ferry?

Enjoy a Segway Tour, zip-line ride, and aerial rope course at the family-friendly Adventure Center. You can also go on the spooky but fun Harpers Ferry Ghost Tour, discovering The Harper House, the oldest building in Harpers Ferry tied to many ghost stories. Learn about John Brown’s attempted slave revolt in the town in 1859 at the local museum. The Murphy-Chambers Farm Loop Trail takes you past lots of historic sites, including John Brown’s Cave.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

1.2 Practical Information For Visiting Harper’s Ferry

• Visitor’s Center Address: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.
• Map Location
• Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C

2. Explore Asheville, North Carolina

North Carolina mountains with vibrant fall colors

Are you looking for a charming city filled with farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, farmer’s markets, and historic attractions? Asheville offers a thriving arts and culture scene and the stunning Biltmore Estate. The temperatures are warm from September to early November, allowing you to see the incredible fall foliage and attend seasonal festivals such as the Asheville Oktoberfest, LEAF Festival (Lake Eden Arts Festival), Asheville Fall Craft Fair, and the CiderFest. As noted by Explore Asheville, the city is known for its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect fall destination.

2.1 Where to Experience Nature in Asheville?

Explore the well-marked trails in Pisgah National Forest and take a breathtaking drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It passes through the town and is known for being one of the most scenic drives in the country. Remember to take your camera for the stunning views!

Biltmore Estate Asheville

2.2 Essential Information For Visiting Asheville

• Visitors Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 10°C to 21°C

3. Visit The Scenic Region of New England

Vermont houses by a lake in New England during fall

Are you interested in seeing the picturesque northern states of Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Vermont reach their peak of vibrant autumn colors? Fall begins from late September to mid-October, making it a great time to visit. Vermont is home to pretty towns filled with white clapboard houses, including the picturesque towns of Stowe, Woodstock, Grafton, and Peacham, as well as beautiful Lake Willoughby and the scenic Quechee Gorge. According to the New England Travel Guide, autumn is the ideal time to explore the region’s stunning foliage and charming small towns.

3.1 What Should You Explore in New England?

In Connecticut, explore the leafy, historic towns of Litchfield and Kent. In New Hampshire, visit the White Mountain National Forest and Lake Winnipesaukee. In Maine, Acadia National Park, the Rangeley Lakes Region, and Moosehead Lake are gorgeous spots for leaf-peeping. Don’t miss the charming historic coastal city of Newport in Rhode Island. It provides a picturesque setting for autumn foliage!

House by a Lake in New England reflecting autumn colors

3.2 Key Details For Visiting New England

• Location: Northeast and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 7°C to 20°C

3.3 Must-Try Experiences in New England

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over Connecticut to see the colorful landscapes from above.
2. Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train: Enjoy a ride on the Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train, which takes you from New Hampshire to Plymouth, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.
3. Polly’s Pancake Parlor: Dine on a tasty homemade breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor, and try the gingerbread batter pancakes.

4. Experience The Surreal Beauty Of Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

Monument Valley Vista during autumn

Are you looking for unique and spectacular landscapes? Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is home to surreal beauty. The autumn months offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. According to the Navajo Nation Parks, Monument Valley offers a unique cultural and scenic experience.

4.1 What Can You Explore in Monument Valley?

Explore the Scenic Valley Drive, the iconic The Mittens and Merrick Butte, and the hidden gems of Hunts Mesa and Mystery Valley with a Navajo guide.

Monument Valley Arizona under a blue sky

4.2 Important Information Before Visiting Monument Valley

• Visitors Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Map Location
• Average temperatures: 16°C to 21°C

4.3 Enjoyable Activities in Monument Valley

1. Wildcat Trail Hike: Hike the popular Wildcat Trail, which takes you on a two-hour journey around West Mitten Butte.
2. Sunset at John Ford’s Point: Catch a breathtaking sunset from John Ford’s Point for incredible views.

5. Discover The Buzzy City Of Chicago, Illinois

Chicago Skyline with fall colors

Do you think Chicago is a fun and buzzy city to visit? Plan trips in September and October to experience mild temperatures, dry weather, and parks and tree-lined avenues ablaze with dazzling fall colors. According to Choose Chicago, the city offers a diverse range of attractions and events, making it a fantastic destination for fall travel.

5.1 What Can You Do In Chicago During Fall?

Check out the excellent craft breweries, such as Marz Community Brewing. Enjoy pumpkin pie from a gourmet bakery and catch the 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Davis Theater. You can also watch some Chicago Blues live music, stroll through Millennium Park, and discover the huge collection of outdoor public art displays.

Chicago Neighborhood Illinois during autumn

5.2 Useful Information For Visiting Chicago

• Visitors Center Address: 301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C

6. Visit Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

Allegheny Forest in October with golden foliage

Do you know Allegheny National Forest is a beautiful protected forest covering over 500,000 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania? Indulge in leaf-peeping here, where the trees start to turn in late September and transform into a sea of gold by mid-October. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Allegheny National Forest is a prime location for viewing fall foliage.

6.1 What Can You See And Do In Allegheny National Forest?

Take the 29-mile looped scenic drive on the Longhouse Scenic Byway and then climb the short paved path to Rimrock Overlook. See incredible forest views and the Allegheny Reservoir.

Allegheny National Forest during autumn

6.2 Essential Details For Visiting Allegheny National Forest

• Visitors Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 10°C to 15°C

6.3 Exciting Activities in Allegheny National Forest

1. Canoeing: Canoe on Allegheny Reservoir and then relax on the peaceful Kinzua Beach, which is located on its shore.
2. Biking: Bike along Jakes Rocks Overlook and Mountain Bike Trail for incredible panoramic views of the forest, rock formations, and the Allegheny Reservoir.

7. Discover Coastal Beauty At Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, showcasing white sands and blue waters

Are you interested in a beautiful coastal destination on the Gulf of Mexico, famous for its white sands and warm ocean waters? Gulf Shores offers a less crowded and more affordable alternative to Florida, with more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity than the summer. According to the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism Board, fall is an ideal time to visit for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

7.1 Why Should You Visit Gulf Shores in October?

It’s still warm enough to swim in the turquoise ocean, relax on the expansive white sands of Orange Beach, enjoy water sports, and discover the family-friendly theme parks!

Gulf Shores October with clear skies and calm waters

7.2 Important Information About Visiting Gulf Shores

• Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

7.3 What To Do In Gulf Shores?

1. Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail: Hike or bike the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park.
2. Dolphin-Watching Boat Tour: Go on a dolphin-watching boat tour.
3. Ferris Wheel Ride: Ride the famous Ferris Wheel located at The Wharf for breathtaking ocean views.
4. Beach Yoga: Join a beach yoga session with Gulf Shores Beach Yoga for a sociable vibe and friendly group.
5. Mini Golf: Play a fun round of mini golf at Tiki’s Mini Golf.

8. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park showcasing mountain landscapes

Do you want to visit one of the most popular national parks in the country, spanning over 415 square miles with mountain landscapes and natural scenery? Take a scenic drive on the Trail Ridge Road for panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and valleys during fall. According to the National Park Service, fall is a beautiful time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, with fewer crowds and stunning foliage.

8.1 What Are The Highlights of Rocky Mountain National Park?

Visit the charming gateway mountain town of Grand Lake, see the turquoise waters of Emerald Lake, hike the easy Bear Lake Loop Trail, and visit Estes Park, a quaint mountain town home to shopping, dining, and an aerial tramway. From the tramway, see views of the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining!

Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado during fall

8.2 Important Details For Your Visit

• Visitors Information: 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 4°C to 13°C

8.3 Fun Activities In Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Kayaking on Lake Estes: Kayak on the tranquil waters of Lake Estes.
2. Photographing Alberta Falls: Photograph the stunning Alberta Falls.

9. Explore Austin, Texas

Austin Texas skyline at dusk

Are you a fan of cool bars, live music, Tex-Mex cuisine, and a huge range of cultural attractions? Austin offers a packed calendar of fun festivals and events. Summer temperatures are scorching, so visit in October when the temperatures are more comfortable. According to the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, fall is a great time to experience the city’s vibrant culture and outdoor activities.

9.1 What Events Should You Not Miss in Austin?

Don’t miss the annual Austoberfest, the Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, the Austin’s Park n’ Pizza Halloween Fest, the Pumpkin Nights Festival, and the House of Torment haunted house attraction!

Austin Texas featuring a vibrant street scene

9.2 Useful Information For Your Visit To Austin

• Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

9.3 Unforgettable Activities in Austin

1. Live Music: Watch a live band at the Mohawk Bar and Live Music venue.
2. Two-Step Dance Lessons: Take fun two-step dance lessons at the Broken Spoke bar.
3. Tex-Mex Dining: Dine on tasty Tex-Mex at the Eldorado Cafe.

10. Explore The Natural Desert Landscapes Of Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park, Utah with towering stone arches

Do you know Arches National Park is a protected area filled with unique natural desert landscapes, over 2,000 stone arches, towering pinnacles, canyons, and balanced rocks? Spring and fall are the best times to explore and go hiking. According to the National Park Service, Arches National Park is known for its stunning red rock formations and offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels.

10.1 What Should You See In Arches National Park?

Drive to the famous Delicate Arch, take the looped hiking trail around the Windows Section (North Window, South Window, Turret Arch, and the Double Arch), and photograph the Balanced Rock. Take a scenic drive through on the main road and see the Courthouse Towers, the Petrified Dunes, and the La Sal Mountains.

Arches National Park, Utah with diverse rock formations

10.2 Essential Information For Planning Your Visit

• Address: Arches National Park, U.S. 191 North, Moab, UT 84532
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 15°C to 24°C

10.3 What Activities Should You Do in Arches National Park?

1. Arches Scenic Drive: Drive the 19-mile-long Arches Scenic Drive and stop to photograph the scenic sights.
2. Delicate Arch Hike: Hike to Delicate Arch and capture a perfect shot with the mountains as the backdrop.
3. Ranger-Led Hike: Join a ranger for a free hike to learn more about the park.

11. Take A Scenic Drive On Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Blue Ridge Parkway displaying fall foliage

Are you interested in a scenic drive stretching over 469 miles along the mountaintops from south of Asheville, North Carolina, to the Virginia state line and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? It’s known as one of the most stunning drives in the country. According to the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views and diverse recreational opportunities, especially during the fall foliage season.

11.1 What Can You See Along Blue Ridge Parkway?

See the Appalachian Mountains, dense forests, and lush valleys. The leaves turn into a cascade of colors, and you might spot deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears foraging for food. Drive to the Looking Glass Falls, Grandfather Mountain, the Sliding Rock, view the fall foliage from the Linn Cove Viaduct and the Richland Balsam Overlook, and stay over at Asheville, Banner Elk, Black Mountain, and Woodfin.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia during autumn

11.2 Key Details About Visiting Blue Ridge Parkway

• Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 13°C to 21°C

11.3 Top Activities Along the Parkway

1. Crabtree Falls Trail: See the stunning Crabtree Falls after hiking the two-hour round trip on the Crabtree Falls Trail.
2. Ecco Adesso Vineyard: Stop at the picturesque Ecco Adesso vineyard and sample the Shenandoah Valley wines.
3. Blue Ridge Music Center: Catch a folk band perform live at the Blue Ridge Music Center.
4. Grandfather Mountain: Cross the mile-high swinging bridge on Grandfather Mountain, the highest of its kind in the country!

12. Discover The Mountain Town Of Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona displaying mountain town charm

Are you interested in a mountain town nestled along Route 66? It’s an awesome base for exploring nearby attractions like the Grand Canyon National Park, Walnut Canyon, and the San Francisco Peaks. Visit when there are fewer crowds, the temperatures have dropped, and the trees are alight with color. According to the Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau, fall is an excellent time to visit with comfortable weather and stunning scenery.

12.1 What Should You See And Do In Flagstaff?

Visit the Wupatki National Monument, the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, the Meteor Crater, the Oak Creek Canyon, and explore downtown Flagstaff. Downtown is filled with cool craft breweries, live music, independent stores, and the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Flagstaff, Arizona Road showcasing autumn colors

12.2 Important Visitor Information

• Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 15°C to 21°C

12.3 Must-Try Experiences in Flagstaff

1. Mother Road Brewing Company: Sample beer at Mother Road Brewing Company and try their popular Tower Station Roadside Grove.
2. Red Mountain Hiking Trail: Hike the Red Mountain Hiking Trail past volcanic landscapes.
3. Aspen Groves: Leaf-peep at the aspen groves in the San Francisco Peaks.
4. Lowell Observatory: Gaze at stars in the clear night skies at The Lowell Observatory.
5. Walnut Canyon: Explore the ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 700 years ago in Walnut Canyon.

13. Experience Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park showcasing stunning mountain landscapes

Are you fascinated by a protected area in northwestern Wyoming, spanning approximately 310,000 acres? Explore the landscapes, the Grand Teton Mountain Range, alpine meadows, valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. Fall is when the park’s colorful foliage is at its peak. According to the National Park Service, Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

13.1 What To Look For In Grand Teton National Park?

Explore the Teton Range, Jenny Lake, the Snake River, and head out to the Two Ocean Lake Loop for the best chance of spotting elk, moose, and grizzly bears. Remember to pack bear spray!

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming during autumn

13.2 Important Details About Your Visit

• Park Headquarters address: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 7°C to 13°C

13.3 Activities to Enjoy

1. Jenny Lake Ferry: Take the Jenny Lake Ferry across the water and hike up Cascade Canyon and along the shoreline of Lake Solitude.
2. Golden Hour Photography: Photograph the Golden Hour when the warm lighting makes the autumn colors vibrant.

14. Visit Romantic Vacation Destination – Maui, Hawaii

Maui Coastline Hawaii featuring sandy beaches and palm trees

Do you know Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii? Fall in love with its sandy beaches, palm trees, rainforests, mountains, and volcanoes. It makes a destination in fall to avoid peak season crowds. According to the Maui Visitors Bureau, fall is a great time to visit with warm weather and fewer tourists.

14.1 Top Highlights Of Visiting Maui?

Hike up to the summit of the dormant volcano Haleakalā at sunrise and take in the views over the unique landscapes. Explore the Iao Valley State Monument, discover the lunar-like landscapes of Haleakala National Park, see the Kipahulu coastline, and see waterfalls.

Maui Beach in Hawaii showcasing turquoise waters

14.2 Information For Visiting Maui

• Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
• Map Location
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

14.3 What Are The Best Activities In Maui?

1. Helicopter Tour: Take a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for a bird’s-eye view of the island.
2. Pipiwai Trail: Hike the Pipiwai Trail to see the Waimoku Falls.
3. Hawaii Food and Wine Festival: Attend the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival and sample the locally made delights.

15. Explore Door County, Wisconsin – The Cape Cod of The West

Door County Scenic Road showcasing fall colors

Are you looking for a peninsula located in Wisconsin between Green Bay and Lake Michigan? It’s filled with scenery, harbors, towns, and a coastline! Known as the ‘Cape Cod of The West,’ enjoy its long shoreline, lighthouses, beach, and state parks with trails. According to the Door County Visitor Bureau, fall is a beautiful time to visit with fewer crowds and stunning foliage.

15.1 What To Experience In Door County?

Discover the attractive towns, chat with the locals, taste the craft brews, and dine on the local cuisine. Don’t miss the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay.

Door County, Wisconsin featuring a charming harbor

15.2 Essential Information Before You Go

• Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI