27 Best Places to Visit in October in the USA (For Fall Foliage & Fun)
October in the USA isn’t just a month; it’s a feeling. It’s the crisp scent of fallen leaves on a hiking trail, the cozy warmth of a flannel shirt, and ... Continue Reading Read the original post 27 Best...
AbJimroe
October in the USA isn’t just a month; it’s a feeling. It’s the crisp scent of fallen leaves on a hiking trail, the cozy warmth of a flannel shirt, and the spooky fun of a ghost tour in a historic town. Summer’s intense heat has faded, the crowds have thinned, and the entire country puts on its best autumn colours.
We’ve chased fall across the country, from watching the sunrise over fiery forests in Acadia to hiking through golden canyons in Zion. We know that when you’re planning an October trip, you’re not just looking for a place, you’re looking for an experience. Whether you’re after peak fall foliage, a spooky Halloween adventure, or a sun-drenched escape, we’ve got you covered.
Top 5 October Experiences in the USA
Best for Peak Fall Foliage: The Catskills, New York Best for Spooky Vibes: Salem, Massachusetts Best for National Park Adventures: Zion National Park, Utah Best for Fall Festivals & Food: Santa Fe, New Mexico Best for a Warm Weather Escape: Maui, Hawaii
Best Places for Peak Fall Foliage
This is for the travellers who want to step into a real-life autumn postcard. These destinations are the gold standard for brilliant reds, oranges, and golds. For the best colours, plan your trip for the first two weeks of October in the northern spots and mid-to-late October for the more southern locations.
1. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Why Visit: We drove through the Berkshires one October and couldn’t stop pulling over for photos; the colourful foliage was that incredible. 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. Stowe, Vermont
Why Visit: We’ve never seen fall like we did in Vermont; it was like walking through a postcard. The small towns like Stowe 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 the Smugglers’ Notch State Park pass for breathtaking foliage. Visit a sugar shack or the Cold Hollow Cider Mill for fresh cider and donuts. Hike to the top of Mount Mansfield for panoramic views.Insider Tip: Peak foliage moves from north to south. Check a live foliage tracker online before your trip to find the most vibrant areas.
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why Visit: We caught a sunrise over Cadillac Mountain wrapped in blankets, thermos in hand, and it remains one of our favourite travel memories. Acadia mixes rugged coastline with blazing foliage like nowhere else. We spent days hiking trails framed by fire-coloured 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
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.
Top Things to Do
Drive a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike in Pisgah National Forest. Visit the Biltmore Estate’s magnificent gardens.Insider Tip: The Blue Ridge Parkway can get very congested on weekends. For a similar Appalachian vibe with fewer crowds, consider exploring nearby West Virginia.
5. 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 country, peaking in early to mid-October. The Kancamagus Highway is legendary for a reason.
Why Visit: Driving the Kancamagus Highway 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.
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.
6. Aspen, Colorado
Why Visit: The first time we saw the Maroon Bells in early October, it stopped us in our tracks. It’s not just a few colourful trees; entire mountainsides look like they’ve been dipped in gold. It’s a different kind of fall foliage; intense, dramatic, and set against the sharp peaks of the Rockies.
Top Things to Do
Photograph the Maroon Bells at sunrise (reservations required). Hike the Cathedral Lake Trail. Drive over Independence Pass before it closes for the season.Insider Tip: The fall colour here is fleeting and peaks very early, often in the first week of October. Plan accordingly, as you can miss it in the blink of an eye.
Best Destinations for Halloween & Spooky Vibes
If your ideal autumn involves less pumpkin spice and more ghostly spice, this section is for you. These cities embrace their haunted histories and go all-out for Halloween, making for an unforgettable and atmospheric October getaway.
7. Salem, Massachusetts
Best for: Halloween Events, Colonial History, Witchcraft Lore
October Weather: Crisp and cool, Avg. Highs 55-60°F (13?16°C)
Why in October: The entire month is one long festival called Haunted Happenings. The city, famous for the 1692 witch trials, becomes the unofficial Halloween capital of the country.
Why Visit: We expected Salem in October to be a bit kitschy, and it is, in the most fun way possible. But walking through the old cemeteries and standing at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial is genuinely chilling. The city balances festive fun with its somber history perfectly.
Top Things to Do
Explore the Peabody Essex Museum. Visit The House of the Seven Gables. Take a guided history walk to the Witch Trials Memorial and Old Burying Point Cemetery.Insider Tip: Book accommodation and tours months in advance. Seriously. If you can, visit on a weekday, as the weekends in October are incredibly crowded.
8. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Visit: We did a cemetery tour through the above-ground tombs of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, and the stories are more fascinating and haunting than any horror movie. New Orleans fully leans into its spooky side, from voodoo shops to vampire tours. It’s a city that feels alive with stories of its past.
Top Things to Do
Take a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (the only way to enter). Join a ghost, vampire, or voodoo tour in the French Quarter. Experience the Krewe of BOO!, the official Halloween parade.Insider Tip: Many of the best ghost tours are after dark. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on uneven, historic streets for a couple of hours.
9. Sleepy Hollow, New York
Why Visit: There’s nothing quite like visiting the Old Dutch Church at dusk and walking through the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, knowing you’re in the heart of the Headless Horseman legend. It feels like stepping right into the classic American ghost story we all grew up with.
Top Things to Do
Take a lantern tour of the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Visit the 300-year-old Old Dutch Church and its burying ground. See the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in the nearby town of Croton-on-Hudson.Insider Tip: A car is almost essential for this trip, as key attractions are spread out between Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown, and other nearby Hudson Valley towns.
10. Savannah, Georgia
Why Visit: Often called one of America’s most haunted cities, Savannah lives up to the hype. Walking through its historic squares at night, with the Spanish moss creating shadowy figures, feels like you’re on a movie set. We did a haunted pub crawl, and the stories were as good as the drinks.
Top Things to Do
Take a ghost tour on a trolley or even in a converted hearse. Explore the beautiful but eerie Bonaventure Cemetery. Visit the Mercer-Williams House, made famous by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.Insider Tip: Savannah’s Historic District has an open-container policy. You can grab a “to-go cup” from a local pub to enjoy while on your evening walking tour.
11. Newport, Rhode Island
Why Visit: We explored Newport’s famous Cliff Walk on a windy October morning, and it was magical. The coastal mansions, historic harbour, and crisp fall air give it a Gilded Age-meets-Halloween vibe. It’s quieter than summer, which makes the ghost stories feel a little more real.
Top Things to Do
Walk the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk. Tour the Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers and The Elms. Take a lantern-lit spooky ghost tour through the historic downtown.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.
Best Cities for Fall Festivals & Food
October is harvest time, and these cities come alive with incredible food, drink, and cultural festivals. The weather is perfect for exploring markets, dining on outdoor patios, and soaking up the vibrant, festive atmosphere.
12. New York City, New York
Why Visit: We’ve done NYC in every season, but October has that special magic. The crisp air feels invigorating, the brownstones are decked out in spooky decorations, and the Village Halloween Parade 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 colours in Central Park. Catch a Broadway show or see the Village Halloween Parade. Explore food markets like Smorgasburg or Chelsea Market.Insider Tip: Dress in layers. October mornings can be quite chilly, but afternoons can warm up significantly, especially when walking in the sun.
13. Santa Fe, New Mexico
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. Explore the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market. Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of New Mexican cuisine.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. Austin, Texas
Why Visit: We once hit 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, listening to live music, and indulging in some of the best tacos and barbecue in the country.
Top Things to Do
Attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival (typically the first two weekends). Eat your way through the city’s legendary food truck parks. Enjoy the perfect patio weather at a local brewery or restaurant.Insider Tip: Make restaurant and hotel reservations far in advance, especially during festival weekends when the city books up completely.
15. Sonoma, California
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, and 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 and its excellent restaurants. Attend a winery’s harvest party or grape stomp event.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.
16. Charlottesville, Virginia
Why Visit: We stumbled into Charlottesville during a fall road trip and ended up staying three nights. The Blue Ridge Mountains turn orange and gold, and the town is packed with charm, history, and incredible food and wine. The sunsets over the vineyards are unreal.
Top Things to Do
Go wine tasting on the Monticello Wine Trail. Tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Go apple picking and get fresh apple cider donuts at Carter Mountain Orchard.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.
17. Chicago, Illinois
Why Visit: We love Chicago’s energy in the fall. The crisp air off Lake Michigan is perfect for exploring the city’s amazing architecture and then ducking into a cozy neighbourhood restaurant. The food scene here is on another level, from Michelin-starred dining to deep-dish pizza.
Top Things to Do
Take the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago. Check out the fall festivities at Lincoln Park Zoo or the Morton Arboretum.Insider Tip: The wind off the lake can make it feel much colder than the forecast suggests. Always pack a warm hat and a windproof jacket.
Best National Parks & Outdoor Adventures in October
With summer crowds gone and temperatures dropping to perfect hiking levels, October is arguably the best month to explore America’s great outdoors. You get all the epic scenery with a fraction of the people, making for a wilder, more peaceful experience.
18. Zion National Park, Utah
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.
19. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Why Visit: We visited Grand Teton National Park 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.
Top Things to Do
Look for wildlife on the Moose-Wilson Road in 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.
20. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
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.
21. Yosemite National Park, California
Why Visit: We visited Yosemite Valley in mid-October and it felt so peaceful. The Merced River was calm, the air was crisp, and we could actually find parking at the trailheads. It was the iconic park we’d always wanted to see, without the chaos of summer.
Top Things to Do
Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall. See El Capitan and Half Dome from the Valley floor. Drive Tioga Road to see Tuolumne Meadows (check road status first).Insider Tip: Check road conditions daily. Tioga Road can close for the season with the first significant snowfall, which can happen anytime in October.
22. Sedona, Arizona
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.
23. Flagstaff, 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.
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.
Best Coastal & Warm Weather Escapes
Not a fan of flannel? If your idea of a perfect October is trading falling leaves for warm ocean breezes, these destinations are for you. This is the shoulder season in many sunny spots, meaning fewer crowds and better deals.
24. Greater Palm Springs, California
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.
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.
25. St. Pete–Clearwater, Florida
Why Visit: After a week of fall foliage, sometimes you just need a beach. St. Pete–Clearwater offers warm October weather and stunning Gulf Coast sunsets. No crowds, just powdery sand and seafood feasts by the water.
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.
26. Maui, Hawaii
Best for: Honeymoons, Water Sports, Ultimate Relaxation
October Weather: Warm and tropical, Avg. Highs 85°F (29°C)
Why in October: It’s the sweet spot between the summer rush and the winter high season. You’ll find great deals on flights and hotels and have more of the island’s famous beaches to yourself.
Why Visit: We escaped to Maui one October and it felt like a secret. The beaches were quiet, we could get reservations at the best restaurants, and the waterfalls along the Road to Hana felt like they were just for us. It’s paradise without the peak season price tag.
Top Things to Do
Drive the legendary Road to Hana. Watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakal? National Park. Snorkel in the Molokini Crater.Insider Tip: While the weather is generally beautiful, October can see some rain showers. They’re usually brief, passing quickly to reveal more sunshine.
27. San Diego, California
Why Visit: We love San Diego’s easygoing vibe in the fall. We spent a day exploring the world-class museums in Balboa Park and another just walking the stunning coastline at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. It’s an effortless and fun city vacation.
Top Things to Do
Visit the famous San Diego Zoo & Safari Park. Explore the museums and gardens of Balboa Park. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Coronado Island.Insider Tip: October is “Kids Free San Diego” month, where children get free admission to many major attractions with a paying adult, making it an incredible value for families.
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 favourite months to hit the road. The weather is often Goldilocks-perfect—not too hot, not too cold—letting you hike, sip, or just chill 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
Where is the best fall foliage in the U.S. in October?
New England is the classic choice for peak fall colours in October. The best spots include Vermont, the White Mountains in New Hampshire (Kancamagus Highway), and the Berkshires in Massachusetts. For later in the month, try Asheville, NC and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
What are the best warm-weather places to visit in October in the USA?
If you’re chasing sunshine, October is ideal for Greater Palm Springs, CA, Maui, HI, San Diego, CA, and St. Pete–Clearwater, FL. These destinations offer warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of summer.
Is October a good time to visit U.S. national parks?
Absolutely. October is one of the best months for visiting national parks. Popular parks like Zion, Yosemite, and Yellowstone see significantly fewer crowds, have cooler temperatures for hiking, and often showcase spectacular fall colours.
What is the cheapest place to visit in October?
You can find great deals in “shoulder season” destinations. Beach towns like St. Pete and coastal destinations see prices drop after the summer months. Visiting national parks on weekdays can also be more affordable.
Is early or late October better for fall colors?
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 Aspen and Flagstaff also peak earlier in the month.
What should I pack for a trip in the U.S. in October?
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.
