Discover the Best Places to Travel in the USA in October

October is a truly magical time to explore the United States. I personally think fall is the perfect season for an American adventure, offering unique experiences that the peak summer months can’t match. Whether you’re chasing vibrant fall foliage, seeking comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, looking to avoid the biggest crowds, or eager to enjoy seasonal festivals and events, there are countless Best Places To Travel In The Usa In October. From historic towns blanketed in autumn colors to national parks showcasing dramatic landscapes under crisp skies, this guide curated from personal experience highlights some truly unforgettable destinations perfect for an autumn getaway. Knowing [what to bring when traveling] can enhance your experience in these diverse locales.

Beyond the classic New England charm, many other gems across the country come alive in October. The key is often the transition – the scorching heat of summer fades, bringing pleasant warmth to southern states and deserts, while northern regions burst into breathtaking color before the chill of winter sets in. Let’s dive into some of my favorite spots that shine particularly bright this month.

Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

I adored taking a trip to this charming historic town during this month. I thought it was a special time because the breathtaking fall foliage had blanketed the surrounding Appalachian mountains, its 19th-century streets had become cozy and atmospheric, and there were seasonal ghost tours galore.

I also enjoyed the small-town events in the cool, crisp autumn air, including the Scottish-inspired Highland Games, the Fall Foliage Adventure Race, and the many Halloween festivities – such as a family-friendly pumpkin carving and fireside story-time event, along with a Halloween craft fair. If you’re planning a quick trip, Harper’s Ferry is one of the [best places to travel for long weekend].

I drove 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., and spent a long weekend leaf-peeping along the Maryland Heights Trail and famous Appalachian Trail (I started at the midpoint), seeing breathtaking views at Jefferson Rock and discovering the interesting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Harpers Ferry town nestled in fall foliage

• Location: Northeastern West Virginia, eastern United States
• Vibe: Historic, scenic, and peaceful
• Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C

My favorite highlights…

Asheville, North Carolina

October turned out to be a really special time to visit this charming city because I discovered the Blue Ridge Mountains had burst into brilliant fall colors, the air was crisp and perfect for scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the hiking trails were at their most beautiful, and the city had come alive with seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and a cozy mountain-town charm.

The weather was mild but crisp (from September to early November, the temperatures are still reasonably pleasant), and I found that there was an awesome calendar of seasonal events including the fun Asheville Oktoberfest, the LEAF Festival (Lake Eden Arts Festival), Asheville Fall Craft Fair, the Official Halloween Bar Crawl, and the family-friendly Eliada Fall Festival and Corn Maze. For those wondering about extending their fall travels, consider exploring [best places to travel in September for couples] before or after an October trip.

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport and stayed for four days at the Insta-worthy 4-star Blind Tiger. I took a drive to peek at the peak fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway, saw gorgeous seasonal displays at the Biltmore Estate, hiked colorful trails in Pisgah National Forest, and checked out the atmospheric Lake Lure where the famous lift scene in Dirty Dancing took place!

• Location: Western North Carolina in the southeastern United States
• Vibe: Creative, outdoorsy, and laid-back
• Average temperature: 18°C to 22°C

My highlights…

New England

New England completely charmed me when I took a trip here in October and stayed for a whole month (being a digital nomad has its perks for sure)!

I discovered that the beloved region had transformed into a breathtaking canvas of fall colors, with scenic drives through leaf-laden countryside and crisp, cool temperatures – perfect for hiking, apple picking, and cozying up in historic inns.

I kept stumbling across small quaint towns which were hosting seasonal events. I especially loved the Topsfield Fair which opened with a Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off, the German-style Mount Snow Oktoberfest in Vermont, the Fall Fest in Maine, and the Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular at McLaughlin Garden and Homestead.

I flew into Boston Logan and drove two hours to start exploring in Newport, Rhode Island. I took a scenic drive down the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire and saw really breathtaking foliage and fall scenery, explored the leafy, historic towns of Litchfield and Kent, strolled through Salem’s Haunted Happenings in Massachusetts, visited The Pickin’ Patch in Avon, Connecticut, and rode the famous Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train.

• Location: Northeast and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
• Vibe: Quaint, historic, and cozy with a strong seasonal charm
• Average temperature: 7°C to 20°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying in the gorgeous historic boutique Wilder House – I loved all the unique details such as the vintage Airline Radio, the games room, and the huge wrought iron fire places.
• Dining on a heavenly breakfast of gingerbread batter pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor!

Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

I thought Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park was a jaw-dropping place to take a trip to in October. I found the cooler temperatures and the clear skies made it perfect for scenic drives and guided Navajo tours through the dramatic red rock formations.

I also found that the highly photogenic golden desert light and the fewer crowds than the peak season really enhanced the surreal, cinematic beauty of the landscape.

I flew into Arizona and drove two hours and then stayed for a truly extraordinary three days. I went on a guided Navajo tour through the iconic formations of the Mittens and Totem Pole, drove the 17-mile Valley Drive, and captured Insta-worthy sunset views from John Ford Point.

• Location: Arizona–Utah border, southwestern United States
• Vibe: Majestic, cinematic, and deeply spiritual
• Average temperatures: 16°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Hiking the popular Wildcat Trail which took me on a two hour journey around West Mitten Butte.

Chicago, Illinois

I thought Chicago was a lot of fun to visit during this month! The fall colors in the city’s parks are at their peak so the parks and tree-lined avenues were ablaze with dazzling fall colors. The temperatures were mild, dry but crisp which gave the whole place a cozy vibe.

I also loved how the city buzzed with seasonal events, my favorites were the Open House Chicago, the Chicago International Film Festival, and Halloween celebrations in the hip Lincoln Park and Wicker Park neighborhoods and the Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights.

I flew into Midway International Airport and spent a very cool four days sampling the brews at Marz Community Brewing, gorging on Pumpkin Chai Spice Pie from Justice of the Pies Bakery, and strolling through fall foliage in Millennium Park.

I also took an architecture cruise along the Chicago River and caught the 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Davis Theater.

• Location: North-central United States
• Vibe: Urban, energetic, and cultured
• Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C

My favorite highlights…

Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest truly wowed me this month! I enjoyed leaf-peeping as the trees on rolling hills and in dense hardwood forests began turning in late September, transforming into a sea of gold by mid-October.

The crisp, cool air was perfect for hiking and scenic drives, and along the Scenic Byway, I saw breathtaking views of the changing leaves reflected in the calm waters of the Allegheny Reservoir.

I flew into Pittsburgh and drove 2.5 hours and stayed for a gorgeous three days. On my trip, I hiked through fiery fall foliage on the Minister Creek Trail, took in sweeping autumn views from Rimrock and Jakes Rocks Overlooks, and enjoyed peaceful drives along the Longhouse Scenic Byway.

• Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania in the northeastern United States
• Vibe: Serene, rustic, and nature-filled
• Average temperature: 10°C to 15°C

My personal highlights…

• Biking along Jakes Rocks Overlook and Mountain Bike Trail – I loved the incredible panoramic views of the forest, rock formations and the shimmering Allegheny Reservoir.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

I visited this laid-back beach town last year in October, when the summer crowds had faded, but I found it was still warm enough to swim in the turquoise ocean, relax on Orange Beach’s white sands, enjoy water sports, and explore family-friendly theme parks.

I also found great deals on accommodation and enjoyed fun events without the peak-season crowds, giving everything a more local feel. October featured the Oktoberfest 5k, National Shrimp Festival, and the Alabama Festival of Flavor. As you consider [warm places to travel in November], Gulf Shores often remains pleasant after October.

I flew into Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) in Alabama, drove 1.5 hours and stayed for week. I relaxed on Gulf Shores Public Beach and the quieter West Beach, went on dolphin-watching boat tour from Orange Beach and explored the beautiful trails at Gulf State Park.

• Location: Gulf Coast of the USA in southern Alabama, southeastern part of the USA
• Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and beachy
• Average October temperature: 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Joining a beach yoga session with Gulf Shores Beach Yoga – I loved the sociable vibe, the ocean views and trying the challenging poses through a vinyasa flow!

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

I loved visiting this stunning alpine wilderness in the fall, when the colorful foliage peaked with golden aspen trees lighting up the mountainsides.

It was elk rutting season, and I saw them in full force throughout the valleys, complete with bugling. The summer crowds had dwindled, and I could still enjoy scenic drives on Trail Ridge Road before snowfall closed it for the season.

I flew into Denver International Airport (DEN), and drove two hours northwest to the park’s main entrance near Estes Park and stayed for a beautiful four days.

I drove the high-altitude Trail Ridge Road which took me up to see incredible panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and valleys, it was an incredible experience to hike among the golden aspens on the Bear Lake Loop and Ouzel Falls trails, and enjoy peaceful scenery with fewer crowds.

• Location: North-central part of Colorado, in the western USA
• Vibe: Wild, peaceful, and awe-inspiring
• Average temperature: 4°C to 13°C

My highlights…

Austin, Texas

I had so much fun in Austin during my October city trip. The temperatures were much more comfortable than the summer heat, and the city went all out with fantastic fall and Halloween events. It buzzed with live music and outdoor patio dining, making for a lively atmosphere.

I found it had a seriously packed calendar of events too including the fun annual Austoberfest, the colorful Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, the sociable Austin’s Park n’ Pizza Halloween Fest, the Austin Film Festival, the family-friendly Pumpkin Nights Festival, and the scary House of Torment haunted house attraction!

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and stayed for a fun-filled four days. I strolled through historic 6th Street, fell in love with craft beer in the hip craft breweries, went hiking in the nearby McKinney Falls State Park, and explored quirky shops along South Congress Avenue.

• Location: In central Texas, in the south-central part of the USA
• Vibe: Creative, energetic, and laid-back
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

Arches National Park, Utah

I thought October was the perfect time to visit this red-rock wonderland. The scorching summer heat had eased into pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking and photography, the red rock formations glowed under softer autumn light, and the popular trails were much less crowded than in peak season.

I flew into Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), then drove 90 minutes to the park which was located near Moab, Utah and stayed for a unique three days.

I hiked to Delicate Arch at sunset, explored the spires and arches of Devil’s Garden, drove the Scenic Park Road, and stargazed at the clear skies which were wonderfully free from light pollution!

• Location: South-central part of the US
• Vibe: Majestic, dramatic, and inspiring
• Average temperature: 15°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Joining the free ranger guided for an interesting hike – I learnt a lot of new things including how the ephemeral pools (temporary rainfall pools) helped keep the desert plants, animals, and insects alive!

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

This 469-mile scenic drive was absolutely stunning in October! The winding mountain road was blanketed with fiery red, orange, and gold leaves, and the crisp air, scenic overlooks, and peaceful hiking trails made it one of the most breathtaking autumn drives in the country.

The wildlife was also slightly less elusive and I did my best to try and spot deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears foraging for food (I did manage to see a few)!

I flew into Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO), drove for 3.5 hours and stayed for a week. I drove to the pretty Looking Glass Falls, Grandfather Mountain (one of the highest peaks in the park), saw the incredible Sliding Rock, viewed the fall foliage from the Linn Cove Viaduct and the Richland Balsam Overlook and then stayed over at the quaint cozy mountain towns of Asheville, Banner Elk and Black Mountain.

• Location: North Carolina and Virginia, in the Southeastern USA
• Vibe: Serene, scenic, and natural
• Average temperature: 13°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Stopping at the picturesque Ecco Adesso vineyard – I loved sampling their Shenandoah Valley wines, especially the peppery Cabernet Franc.
• Feeling brave enough to cross the mile-high swinging bridge on Grandfather Mountain – the highest of its kind in the country!

Flagstaff, Arizona

I visited this high-elevation mountain city during my October road trip and loved it! The fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, vibrant fall colors, crisp mountain air, and golden aspen leaves on scenic drives created a cozy, seasonal charm.

I also saw that there was some awesome seasonal events to attend such as the fun Oktoberfest, the family-friendly Pumpkin Walk, the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, and Celebraciones de la Gente which celebrated the history and culture of Mexico. On a related note about navigating diverse travel situations, you might wonder [can I travel with my gun on a road trip].

I stopped for three days when traveling historic U.S. Route 66 and went for a leaf-peeping scenic drive on Snowbowl Road, visited the dramatic Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and explored downtown where I found awesome craft breweries, live music, and quirky independent stores.

• Location: Located in northern Arizona, in the Southwestern USA
• Vibe: High-altitude, cozy, and outdoorsy
• Average temperature: 15°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

I discovered this stunning wilderness area was perfect for an October fall break, with golden aspens and cottonwoods lighting up the valleys, elk bugling through the crisp autumn air, the summer crowds gone, and the snow-dusted Teton Range providing a breathtaking fall backdrop.

I also found that the temperatures were much more comfortable for hiking and the resident wildlife was very active including the bears who were busy foraging before hibernation.

I flew into Jackson Hole Airport, located inside the park, and stayed for a gorgeous four days. I hiked the colorful Taggart Lake and Jenny Lake trails, spotted elk and moose in the Snake River Valley, drove the scenic Teton Park Road for fall foliage, and gazed at the stunning snow-kissed peaks from Oxbow Bend and Mormon Row.

• Location: Northwestern Wyoming, Western USA
• Vibe: Majestic, rugged, and pristine
• Average temperature: 7°C to 13°C

My favorite highlights…

• Photographing the stunning fall Golden Hour (the time shortly after sunrise and just before sunset) when the warm lighting made the autumn colors even more vibrant!

Maui, Hawaii

I found this lush Hawaiian island to be a dreamy fall destination. In October, the weather was warm and sunny, but less humid, the crowds had thinned, hotel rates were lower, and I enjoyed peaceful beaches, snorkeling, and scenic drives in a more relaxed atmosphere.

I also found that the temperatures were still warm enough to swim in the turquoise waters and there was a packed calender of events on too. My favorites were the festive Maui Fair, scenic Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch, and gourmet Hawaii Food and Wine Festival. For those considering travel beyond October, Maui also often features among [warm places to travel in November].

I fly into Kahului Airport (OGG) and spent 10 days here mostly soaking up the relaxing vibes and swimming and snorkeling in the calm Napili Bay.

I also squeezed in driving the quieter Road to Hana to see waterfalls and black sand beaches, hiked the cooler trails at Haleakalā National Park, and gorged on fresh local food at the family-friendly Maui County Fair.

• Location: Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian Islands in the USA.
• Vibe: Tropical, relaxed, and dreamy
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

Door County, Wisconsin

I was charmed by this picturesque peninsula in October, when the fall colors were in full bloom, charming towns hosted festive harvest events, and the crisp air, scenic lakeshore drives, and peaceful parks created a truly idyllic autumn escape!

When here I got to join in the cozy seasonal events including the fun Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival, the family-friendly Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival, the Autumn Lighthouse Festival which had guided tours, and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay which featured a fun parade, local crafts, and food stalls.

I flew into Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport, drove an hour northeast to the peninsula and stayed for a wonderful week. I took a scenic fall drive on Highway 42 Scenic Byway, discovering the charming waterfront town of Fish Creek, the cute shops of Egg Harbor, and the scenic lakeside town of Baileys Harbor.

• Location: Northeastern Wisconsin, Midwestern USA.
• Vibe: Charming, laid-back, and picturesque
• Average temperature: 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

Big Sur, California

I find Big Sur to be very crowded in the summer, so October was the perfect alternative choice. The coastal weather was clear and mild, the summer crowds had faded, humpback whales migrate along the coast, and the ocean views along Highway 1 were especially breathtaking in the fall light, making photography even more magical.

I found better rates and easier availability for accommodation, with the weather still mild and pleasant. I loved that October also brought events like the Big Sur River Run, Halloween celebrations, and Sunday music at the Pfeiffer Beach Motel.

I stopped at the cozy Big Sur Campground and Cabins on a trip here from Highway 1 (it was a 45 minute drive Monterey) for three days. I hiked the redwood-filled trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, drove across the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, managed to spot migrating gray whales along the coast (an incredible moment for me!), and enjoyed peaceful views at McWay Falls.

• Location: Between Carmel in the north and San Simeon in the south (90 miles), Western USA
• Vibe: Dramatic, rugged, and tranquil
• Average temperatures: 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Driving over the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and then photographing it from Hurricane Point View (a mile away) where I got a completely unobstructed view of the bridge with the ocean in the background!

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

This affluent scenic, hilly region totally charmed me on my fall trip! When I visited during October I found the rolling hills had exploded with brilliant fall colors, I found the charming towns hosted many cozy harvest festivals, and I enjoyed crisp-air hikes, farm-to-table dining, and world-class art and music surrounded by breathtaking autumn scenery!

I loved that the summer crowds had faded, accommodation rates were lower, and there were plenty of exciting events, including the Fall Foliage Festival, Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival, Hawthorne Valley Farm Fall Festival, and the family-friendly Lenox Apple Squeeze.

I drove three hours from Boston and stayed for an idyllic long weekend. I drove the Mohawk Trail for stunning foliage, hiked Mount Greylock for incredible fall views, and enjoyed dining and the cozy vibe in Lenox and Great Barrington.

• Location: Western Massachusetts, in the Northeastern USA
• Vibe: Tranquil, artsy, and scenic
• Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous historic boutique the Williams Inn – a highlight was dining on a kale feta omelette in their gourmet farm-to-table restaurant!
• Going apple picking and seeing fabulous fall foliage scenery at Bartlett’s Orchard – the heavenly freshly made cider donuts and apple muffins were a huge highlight!

Las Vegas

I find summer too hot in this desert city, so I visited in October instead – and didn’t regret it!

The scorching summer heat had finally eased into a much more comfortable warmth, so it was perfect for exploring the Strip, attending outdoor events and concerts, and dining on rooftop terraces.

I discovered that the crowds had thinned, the hotel prices were great, and seasonal festivals abounded, from the Las Vegas Pride Festival to Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest.

I also loved that Halloween was such a big deal in Las Vegas. I took a stroll down LINQ Promenade which was filled with spooky decorations, went to the wild Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, and braved a ghost tour in the nearby abandoned mining town of Goodsprings – it felt like something out of Scooby-Doo!

• Location: Southern Nevada, Southwestern USA
• Vibe: Energetic, glamorous, and entertainment-packed
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

Charleston, South Carolina

I headed to this historic coastal city during this month and discovered the weather was pleasantly warm with low humidity, the summer crowds had thankfully gone, and I enjoyed outdoor dining under oak-shaded piazzas, and strolled through historic neighborhoods which were glowing in the atmospheric fall light.

I also found great hotel deals and lots of lively seasonal events to attend including the MOJA Arts Festival, the interesting Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens, the fun Charleston Beerfest, the family-friendly Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch, and lots of lively Halloween events.

I flew into Charleston International Airport and stayed for a gorgeous mini-break. I wandered through the historic French Quarter, and explored the scenic Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and Boone Hall Plantation in the more comfortable autumn weather.

• Location: Southeastern South Carolina, Southeastern USA
• Vibe: Historic, charming, and vibrant
• Average temperatures: 24°C to 29°C

My highlights…

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This scenic natural area was especially stunning this month, with forested trails and river valleys bursting into vibrant fall colors, crisp air perfect for hiking and biking, and scenic train rides to enjoy.

I also loved how there was a cozy fall vibe, but the temperatures were still mild and comfortable and there were seasonal events on too – my favorites were the Szalays Sweet Corn and Farmers Market and the nostalgic Hale Farm & Village Harvest Festival.

I drove 30 minutes from Cleveland and stayed for a photogenic three days. I hiked to Brandywine Falls, saw breathtaking foliage views from the Ledges Overlook and Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, and took a trip on the quaint family-friendly The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.

• Location: Northeastern Ohio, Midwestern region of the USA
• Vibe: Tranquil, natural, and picturesque
• Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

In conclusion, October presents a diverse palette of travel experiences across the USA, from soaking in warm coastal sun and attending lively city festivals to witnessing the spectacular display of fall foliage in national parks and historic towns. No matter your preference, this month offers pleasant conditions and unique seasonal charm, solidifying its reputation as one of the absolute best times to travel in the country.