20 Wonderful Locations To Go to In October In The USA

There isn’t a query about it: Fall within the USA is iconic! Surprisingly, it isn’t simply the foliage that makes it so. I believe October is the right time for an American Journey for a number of causes, and New England doesn’t maintain all of the playing cards both! Listed below are my favourite gems to discover throughout this month…

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Nestled within the bend the place the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge, the historic city of Harper’s Ferry is previous America at its best! 

This month is full of shade because the bushes start to show, and I found charming colonial streets, old style treats, and a wealthy historical past. I additionally suggest visiting the museums to study John Brown’s Raid in 1859, when abolitionists tried to make use of the city’s armoury in a failed slave revolt.

Quite a few trails took me to the close by woodlands or up onto the Appalachian Path, the place I noticed magnificent views over the quaint previous city, the 2 converging rivers, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Sometimes called ‘virtually heaven,’ after I visited, I may see why Harper’s Ferry’s attraction has survived the centuries. It has plenty of attraction and is steeped in fascinating historical past and fall foliage, which simply rivals Connecticut! 

• Customer’s Middle Deal with: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. 
• Map Location
• Common temperatures – 20 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Having fun with a segway tour, a zipline and an aerial rope course on the Journey Middle.
• Mountain climbing the straightforward Murphy-Chambers Farm loop, which took my previous plenty of historical past.
• Occurring the enjoyable and spooky Harper’s Ferry Ghost Tour.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

From September to early November, temperatures in Asheville are nonetheless moderately heat, so this can be a nice time to discover the unbelievable fall foliage. I’m an enormous fan of this scenic metropolis, which has additionally been utilized in a number of movies, together with The Starvation Video games and Soiled Dancing; I even noticed the place the well-known carry scene is claimed to have taken place (Lake Lure)!

I counsel heading out into nature on the well-marked tracks and trails across the Pisgah Nationwide Forest or attempting Whitewater rafting on the French Broad River. Much less adventurous varieties can take a extra refined stroll via the magnificent Biltmore Property.

It additionally has sturdy roots in Appalachian People and Bluegrass, and it hosts many festivals and well-known residencies at The Orange Peel, the place bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and Band Of Horses as soon as recorded.

I extremely suggest taking the Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic route, which passes via the city.

• Guests Middle Deal with: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 20 levels

My highlights…

• Making an attempt scrumptious Farm-to-Desk delicacies on the stylish eatery Rhubarb.
• Admiring the fantastic fall colours and panoramic views on the Swinging Bridge positioned on Grandfather Mountain.
• Sip on a pumpkin-spiced latte and luxuriate in a freshly baked muffin on the cozy World Espresso Cafe.

3. New England

At first of the Fall season (between the top of September and mid-October), the northern states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont hit their peak of autumn colours! 

I really like Vermont for its super-cute white clapboard cities, elegant city squares, and historic Peacham, which has been declared Vermont’s most iconic village. I additionally counsel taking a day hike to Lake Willoughby or Quechee Gorge to observe the sundown at Lake Champlain earlier than exploring Burlington.

I really like New Hampshire’s scenic White Mountains and historic cities corresponding to Amherst, that are full of wonderful colonial structure.

Maine has the most important stretch of Shoreline in New England and is dotted with attractive little fishing villages corresponding to Lubec and the picturesque Stonington.

I counsel you get off the overwhelmed observe and head for Northern Maine, the place the abundance of nature in locations corresponding to Baxter State Park and Moosehead Lake Parks took my breath away! 

• Area: the realm is a northeastern area of the US and consists of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 15 levels

My private highlights…

• Taking a sizzling air balloon experience the place I noticed a singular view of the Connecticut fall foliage.
• Taking a experience on the Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Prepare experience, which took me from New Hampshire to Plymouth and I additionally dined an onboard buffet lunch.
• Eating on a selfmade breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor.

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

I really like Monument Valley’s spectacularly unusual landscapes, and I personally want to go to throughout the autumn months, when temperatures are nice and the summer season crowds have gone.

It encompasses The Navajo Tribal Park and the enduring Colorado Plateau, house to imposing sandstone Buttes rising in large, eerie formations from the sandy floor.

I really like that the Valley is immediately recognizable to anybody who has ever watched a Western. Many early classics had been filmed right here, together with Stagecoach and As soon as Upon A Time within the West.

I visited a lot of the Buttes independently, however Hunts Mesa and Thriller Valley required a Navajo information for security.

• Guests Middle Deal with:U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Map Location
• Common temperatures – 21 levels

My highlights…

• Mountain climbing the Wildcat Path which took me round among the valley’s greatest surroundings.
• Catching a panoramic dawn over the distinctive landscapes.
• Taking a driving tour across the space and photographing the magnificent views.

5. Chicago, Illinois

I personally assume fall is the right time to go to this vibrant metropolis. September and October are often delicate, and it’s the driest time of 12 months. Even on this bustling metropolis, I may see the attractive fall colours within the parks, inexperienced areas, and alongside tree-lined avenues.

I beloved the town’s glorious craft breweries, such because the hip Marz Group Brewing, which served scrumptious ales alongside tavern-inspired delicacies. I additionally loved tasting pumpkin pie in a connoisseur bakery, a pumpkin-spiced oat milk latte in a comfy espresso store and visiting a pumpkin patch.

I counsel catching the 24-hour horror film bonanza on the Southport Theater, having fun with some well-known Chicago Blues, immersing your self within the metropolis’s thriving arts scene and discovering the huge array of out of doors public artwork from icons like Dali and Calder.

• Guests Middle Deal with: 301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 17 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Individuals-watching on the Riverwalk, a buzzy spot full of bars, retailers, and eating places.
• Eating on banana blossom tacos at Increase Plant-Primarily based Kitchen.
• Sipping on a Lychee and Elderflower Martini at The Rooftop at Nobu Lodge. 

6. Allegheny Nationwide Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny Nationwide Forest is likely one of the most well-known locations in northwestern Pennsylvania to look at fall foliage. Leaves begin to flip right here in late September and remodel right into a sea of gold by mid-October.

I beloved strolling the breathtaking Kinzua Skywalk to see the views. Initially the Kinzua Viaduct, as soon as the very best bridge on the planet, I noticed uninterrupted views of the valley under via a glass ground 301 ft excessive! 

I like to recommend mountain climbing alongside the distinctive Hector Falls or climbing up the hewn stone steps to Rimrock Overlook, a sequence of viewpoints elevated 200ft above the forest providing views over Kinzua Bay and the Allegheny Reservoir.

• Guests Middle Deal with: 80 East Corydon Road Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 15 levels

My private highlights…

• Canoeing on Allegheny Reservoir and enjoyable on Kinzua Seaside, which surrounds it.
• Biking alongside Jakes Rocks Overlook and Mountain Bike Path.
• Exploring the free Zippo/Case Museum, full of attention-grabbing information from Hollywood and music.

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

The autumn provides way more manageable temperatures and fewer humidity, but it surely’s nonetheless heat sufficient for swimming in The Gulf of Mexico, bathing on the intensive white sands of Orange Seaside, and exploring the water sports activities and theme parks. 

I beloved mountain climbing and biking on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails in Gulf State Park and catching the altering colours beneath the canopies of leaves. Simply look ahead to snakes, alligators, armadillos, bobcats, and eagles!

• Guests Middle Deal with: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 27 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Discovering the Nationwide Shrimp Competition.
• Enjoying a spherical of enjoyable mini golf.
• Driving the well-known Ferris Wheel and seeing breathtaking views.

8. Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park, Colorado

The Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park Spans 415 miles of protected countryside and encompasses Path Ridge Street, the very best stretch of unbroken paved street in America, which took me as much as The Continental Divide.

My favourite magnificence spots right here had been Grand Lake, Emerald Lake, and the historic Keyhole Route up Longs Peak, the very best and most harmful mountain within the park. This month, the foliage is beautiful.

I additionally extremely suggest driving to among the close by townships. One in every of them is Estes Park, a quaint mountain city that gives loads of buying and eating and an aerial tramway with wonderful views of the imposing Stanley Lodge (which impressed Stephen King’s traditional The Shining!).

• Guests Data – 1000 Freeway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 8 levels

My highlights…

• Driving alongside Path Ridge Street, the very best paved street within the US Nationwide Park and seeing breathtaking views.
• Mountain climbing the scenic Emerald Lake Path.
• Photographing attractive Alberta Falls.

9. Austin, Texas

I really like Austin for its cool hangouts, laid-back vibes, unbelievable stay music scene, and the South by Southwest Music Competition.

In the course of the summer season, temperatures common 36 levels, so I a lot want visiting this month when the temperatures are extra tolerable and the autumn foliage bathes the streets and parks in shade. I additionally love the seasonal festivals, together with Oktoberfest, Dia De Los Muertos, and Halloween, with craft beer, carnival and creepy haunted homes!

I all the time stroll down historic sixth Road to get pleasure from down-home eating, good ale, and stay music beneath the romantic lights mirrored on the canal. After I cross the little footbridges that span the water, I discover quirky delights, from bizarre museums to secret speakeasies! 

I counsel exploring the breathtaking McKinney Falls State Park or Enchanted Rock State Pure Space. For some Texan custom, head out to one of many corn mazes or pumpkin patches at an area farm!

• Customer’s Middle Deal with: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 28 levels

My must-do highlights…

• Visiting Mohawk and catching stay music.
• Studying two-step dancing at Damaged Spoke.
• Seeing unbelievable paintings, crafts, and homewares by native makers on the Pecan Arts Competition.

10. Arches Nationwide Park, Utah

I personally assume that is the perfect month to benefit from the iconic panorama when daytime temperatures common a pleasing 21 levels as an alternative of the summer season highs of 36 levels.

The Arches Nationwide Park is immediately recognizable, and the ‘Delicate Arch’ (in any other case often called the Previous Maid’s Bloomers!) has turn out to be an emblem of all the state of Utah.

This place all the time fascinates me. This prehistoric panorama has greater than 2000 distinctive pure stone arches, which started to kind round 65 million years in the past and proceed to vary and erode minutely as every day passes. I believe there isn’t a different place like this on the planet, so put this in your bucket record!

• Guests Middle – Moab, UT 84532
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 21 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Driving the 19-mile-long Arches Scenic Drive and stopping to admire a number of of the numerous scenic sights.
• Mountain climbing to the Delicate Arch and grabbing an Insta-worthy shot that includes the picturesque mountains within the background.
• Collaborating within the free Ranger-Led program and studying extra concerning the park.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

I really like this beautiful route! The Blue Ridge Parkway, which traces 469 miles alongside the mountaintops south of Asheville, North Carolina, to the Virginia State Line and Nice Smoky Mountain Nationwide Park, took me previous many Appalachian magnificence spots. I additionally love attempting to identify the various wildlife right here, corresponding to black bears, river otters, cougars, bald eagles, and elk.

I explored hidden caves and cliffs on the rugged Grandfather Mountain and felt courageous sufficient to cross the mile-high swinging bridge, the very best of its type within the nation!

I counsel heading for Trying Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, or the refreshing Skinny Dip Falls for wild swimming. Taking within the fiery fall foliage from vantage factors like Linn Cove Viaduct or the Richland Balsam Overlook (the very best elevation level on the parkway), and if you wish to keep some time, I counsel one of many quaint cities corresponding to Asheville, Banner Elk, Black Mountain, or Woodfin.

• Customer Middle Deal with: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
• Map Location
• Common temperature  – 13 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Seeing the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls through the Appalachian Path. 
• Experiencing world-class wine tasting at one of many native vineyards.
• Cathing stay music on the Blue Ridge Music Middle.

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

I really like visiting this gem when the summer season crowds have dispersed, the scorching temperatures have dropped, the bushes are alight with shade and the climate is crisp and clear!

The well-known Route 66 took me instantly via this vibrant historic metropolis, and I discovered it the right base for exploring Grand Canyon Nationwide Park and Walnut Canyon, that are full of historical cave dwellings and the purple sandstone properties of the Pueblo tribes.

I additionally beloved visiting the close by Wupatki and Sundown Crater Nationwide Monuments. The distinction between the traditional arid panorama and the hovering heights of the San Francisco Peaks was really beautiful!

My different favorite highlights included the craft breweries, stay music, unbelievable unbiased shops, and the nationally acclaimed Museum of Northern Arizona. 

• Guests Middle Deal with: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 17 levels

My private highlights…

• Indulging in epic quantity of pretzels and beer on the glorious craft breweries.
• Mountain climbing the beautiful Pink Mountain Mountain climbing Path. 
• Watching the starry night time skies at The Lowell Observatory.

13. Grand Teton Nationwide Park, Wyoming 

As an out of doors lover, I can’t get sufficient of this place! There are 200 miles of unspoilt mountain paths to discover, in addition to the Snake River. I’m going mountain climbing and boating, and it’s also possible to go climbing whereas having fun with the beautiful crystal lakes and alpine landscapes. 

There are quite a few well-marked trails to discover all the sweetness spots, and I all the time attempt to spot elk, bears, owls, and colourful native birds alongside the best way.

I counsel taking the Jenny Lake Ferry throughout the water and mountain climbing up the beautiful Cascade Canyon and alongside the shimmering shoreline of Lake Solitude. For one thing just a little extra adventurous, attempt the Dying Valley Path and take within the unbelievable views of Glacial Phelps Lake.

For the perfect probability of recognizing elk, moose, and grizzly bears, head out to the comparatively flat Two Ocean Lake Loop. Simply guarantee you’re outfitted with bear spray!

• Park Headquarters handle: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 11 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Taking a scenic drive as much as Sign Mountain and seeing the picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Level positioned on the western facet of Jenny Lake. 
• Mountain climbing alongside the path from String Lake to Leigh Lake (okay for all ages and skill ranges).

14. Maui, Hawaii

I personally assume this can be a excellent vacation spot for a unbelievable fall break. You’ll keep away from the crowds, and the climate is heat sufficient to benefit from the idyllic stretches of sandy seashores and turquoise waters. 

I extremely suggest mountain climbing to the highest of the Iao Valley State Monument (believed to be a sacred place the place historical indigenous individuals carried out rituals), exploring Haleakala Nationwide Park, viewing the waterfalls, and discovering the beautiful Kipahulu Shoreline.

For an unforgettable expertise, hike as much as the summit of the dormant volcano at dawn or sundown to absorb wonderful views over the distinctive panorama.

Highlights of my journey included ‘Aloha Fridays,’ a enjoyable avenue social gathering the place I sampled native delicacies on the Hawaii Meals and Wine Competition (which takes place this month).

• Guests Middle Deal with: 427 Ala Makani Road, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 25 levels

My private highlights…

• Taking a helicopter tour of this magnificent island.
• Snorkelling at Honolua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary.
• Occurring the thrilling Northshore zip line, which took me over towering eucalyptus bushes.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is the easternmost county in Wisconsin and is usually often called the ‘Cape Cod of The West’.

It’s positioned on a picturesque peninsula between Inexperienced Bay and Lake Michigan. I really like this attractive spot for its lengthy shoreline, fairly harbor with bobbing boats, and uncommon limestone seashore.

5 state parks throughout Door County present wonderful alternatives for trekking, biking, and water sports activities—particularly when the bushes are glowing with colours! I additionally counsel visiting among the eleven lighthouses, together with the historic Cana Lighthouse, inbuilt 1859. 

On my journey, I visited the native fall festivals, such because the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Competition and the Fall Competition in Sister Bay. I additionally beloved its laid-back cities, pleasant locals, craft brews, and scrumptious seasonal delicacies.

• Vacationer Middle Deal with: 1015 Inexperienced Bay Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 14 levels

My private highlights…

• Tenting beneath the celebs at Peninsula State Park.
• Attending the Fall Competition and getting concerned with enjoyable actions.
• Stopping by the Peach Barn Farmhouse and Brewery for native produce and engaging craft beer.

16. Massive Sur, California

This place all the time wows me after I go to! The entire stretch of Massive Sur attracts crowds in summer season, so I like to recommend visiting this month as an alternative, as there are fewer vacationers, however the climate continues to be heat.

I beloved visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, the place the cascading McWay Falls throw rainbows on the cliff face above the twinkling Pacific Ocean. I additionally spent hours watching the noisy elephant seals and sea lions hanging out on the rocky outcrops.

Staying in a single day in Massive Sur may be extraordinarily costly, so I like to recommend exploring the shoreline from dawn to sundown and discovering lodging simply outdoors the realm. 

• Guests Middle Deal with: 47555 CA-1, Massive Sur, CA 93920
• Map Location
• Common temperatures – 23 levels

My highlights…

• Visiting Level Lobos Pure Reserve, one in all my favourite state parks in California.
• Taking a shot of the Insta-worthy Keyhole Arch on the magnificent Pfeiffer Seaside.
• Driving over the enduring landmark, Bixby Creek Bridge and admiring the enchanting views.

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

I personally assume The Berkshires are simply as satisfying to go to within the fall—the summer season crowds are gone, and the coloured foliage provides a brand new type of magic.

I really like mountain climbing and biking via the numerous State Forests, corresponding to Bear City or Tolland, house of the serene Otis Reservoir. I additionally love visiting the scrumptious farm-to-table eateries right here.

When you want your views from above, then I might counsel heading for Knife Edge or Squaw Peak and Devils Pulpit, located throughout the beautiful 503-acre Monument Mountain Reservation. 

My favourite highlights embrace the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge (essentially the most intensive assortment of his work worldwide) and The Emily Dickinson Museum close to Amherst. 

• Guests Middle Deal with: 1Berkshire PO Field 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 16 levels

My private highlights…

• Watching a live performance beneath the celebs on the open-air venue Tanglewood.
• Mountain climbing via Mount Greylock, house to the very best level within the state and nice remark factors.
• Going boating on Windsor Lake.

18. Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

This month is a superb time to go to Las Vegas to keep away from the unbearably sizzling summer season temperatures. I additionally all the time discover nice lodge costs right now of 12 months.

Halloween is a giant deal within the metropolis, and I counsel occurring a enjoyable ghost tour within the close by deserted mining city of Goodsprings, which may be very Scooby-Doo!

All the same old adventures are nonetheless accessible, corresponding to helicopter and sizzling air balloon rides over The Grand Canyon or the well-known Strip by night time, and the stunning autumn gentle is a bonus, too! 

Again on the town, I beloved occurring a romantic gondola experience alongside the Venetian Grand Canal and watching the stay reveals. After all, it’s also possible to hit the slot machines, which can swallow your {dollars} any time of 12 months with out discrimination!

• Guests Middle Deal with: 495 S. Important St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 29 levels

My favourite highlights…

• Capturing an unbelievable Instagrammable shot of the Grand Canyon at sundown.
• Going for a Grand Buffet on the MGM Grand, the lengthy meals counters had been unbelievable!
• Watching the Fountains of Bellagio.

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Summer time is the wet season in Charleston, so this can be a nice month to go to. Temperatures are delicate, humidity drops, and I all the time discover loads of glorious lodge offers.

Charleston is the oldest deliberate Anglo-American city within the nation, and I really like that its streets are lined with elegant colonial buildings and antebellum manor homes. The very first shot of the Civil Conflict was fired right here at Fort Sumter, and relics of the interval may be discovered throughout the town.

My favourite areas are the Georgian structure of Rainbow Row, the beautiful Waterfront Park and the frilly Pineapple Fountain. I additionally love simply strolling down Broad Road and looking its unbiased retailers, boutiques and biscuit-tin-pretty buildings! 

• North Charleston Customer Middle Deal with: 4975-B Centre Level Drive (800) 774-0006.
• Map Location
• Common temperatures – 24 levels

My highlights…

• Paddleboarding on Shem Creek.
• Cruising round in a PediCab bike taxi.
• Strolling over the Ravenel Bridge over Cooper River and seeing attractive views of Charleston Harbor.

20. Cuyahoga Valley Nationwide Park, Ohio

This comparatively new Nationwide Park is a hidden gem sandwiched between the cities of Akron and Cleveland alongside the banks of the Cuyahoga River.

I’m a giant fan of this tranquil paradise, house to well-marked trails, canal paths, and The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.

I really like the magnificent Brandy Wine Falls, which cascades down a 60-foot drop and feeds the numerous extra minor falls surrounding it. I additionally beloved the intriguing Ice Field Caves and the spectacular Ledges Overlook, the place I noticed breathtaking views of the autumn foliage.

Lengthy-distance hikers can get pleasure from exploring the park’s 125 miles of trails, whereas those that want a delicate stroll can deal with shorter routes. Alternatively, I like to recommend a soothing store at Szlays Candy Corn and Farmers Market.

• Deal with: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125
• Map Location
• Common temperature – 17 levels

My private highlights…

• Mountain climbing the scenic Ledges Path and Pine Grove Path Loop. 
• Testing the native produce at Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market.
• Taking Insta-worthy photographs on the Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook.