Travel

The Best Places to Travel to in October in the US

October presents a prime opportunity for an unforgettable American journey, moving beyond the typical summer destinations. As the heat gives way to crisp air and vibrant colors, many parts of the United States transform, offering unique experiences ranging from stunning natural beauty to lively seasonal events. This guide explores exceptional locations across the country that truly shine during this autumn month, offering a mix of iconic fall landscapes, mild coastal weather, and festive atmospheres. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, seeking comfortable exploration temperatures, or looking for unique seasonal celebrations, these destinations offer compelling reasons to pack your bags this October.

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

October proves to be a special time to visit this charming historic town. The surrounding Appalachian mountains become blanketed in breathtaking fall foliage, the 19th-century streets gain a cozy and atmospheric feel, and there are seasonal ghost tours galore. The cool, crisp autumn air also hosts small-town events, including the Scottish-inspired Highland Games, the Fall Foliage Adventure Race, and many Halloween festivities like family-friendly pumpkin carving, fireside story-time, and a craft fair. Located just 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., visitors can enjoy a long weekend of leaf-peeping along the Maryland Heights Trail and parts of the famous Appalachian Trail, discovering breathtaking views at Jefferson Rock and exploring the interesting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Autumn foliage covers historic buildings in Harpers Ferry, West VirginiaAutumn foliage covers historic buildings in Harpers Ferry, West VirginiaEntrance sign at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West VirginiaEntrance sign at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West Virginia

  • Visitor’s Center Address: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.
  • Location: Northeastern West Virginia, eastern United States.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Historic, scenic, and peaceful.
  • Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C.

Highlights… Ghost tours, fall foliage hikes, seasonal events.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Visiting Asheville in October is particularly special. The Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding the city burst into brilliant fall colors, creating a stunning backdrop for scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The air is crisp, perfect for hiking the beautiful trails. The city comes alive with seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and possesses a cozy mountain-town charm. The weather is mild but crisp, with temperatures still pleasant from September through early November. Asheville offers an awesome calendar of seasonal events, including the 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. Located in Western North Carolina, it’s a vibrant hub for fall activities.

Scenic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, North Carolina in autumnScenic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, North Carolina in autumn

  • Visitors Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
  • Location: Western North Carolina in the southeastern United States.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Creative, outdoorsy, and laid-back.
  • Average temperature: 18°C to 22°C.

Highlights… Blue Ridge Parkway drives, Biltmore Estate seasonal displays, Pisgah National Forest hikes, Lake Lure.

3. New England

New England is completely charming in October, transforming into a breathtaking canvas of fall colors. Scenic drives wind through leaf-laden countryside, and crisp, cool temperatures are perfect for hiking, apple picking, and cozying up in historic inns. Small, quaint towns throughout the region host seasonal events. Notable festivals include the Topsfield Fair (with its 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. Comprising Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, New England offers a quintessential autumn escape. Visitors can explore historic towns, scenic highways like the Kancamagus, and seasonal attractions like Salem’s Haunted Happenings.

A scenic view of houses by a lake surrounded by fall foliage in Vermont, New EnglandA scenic view of houses by a lake surrounded by fall foliage in Vermont, New EnglandA cozy house nestled by a lake surrounded by vibrant autumn trees in New EnglandA cozy house nestled by a lake surrounded by vibrant autumn trees in New England

  • Visitors Center Address: Discover New England, 75 S Main St, Unit 7, PMB 81, Concord, NH 03301, USA.
  • Location: Northeast and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Quaint, historic, and cozy with a strong seasonal charm.
  • Average temperature: 7°C to 20°C.

Highlights… Scenic drives, apple picking, historic inns, seasonal fairs, Haunted Happenings in Salem. For a more detailed look at exploring this specific region, consider our north east usa travel guide.

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a jaw-dropping place to visit in October. The cooler temperatures and clear skies are perfect for scenic drives and guided Navajo tours through the dramatic red rock formations. The highly photogenic golden desert light and fewer crowds than the peak season truly enhance the surreal, cinematic beauty of the landscape. Located on the Arizona–Utah border, visitors can spend several days exploring. Highlights include guided Navajo tours through iconic formations like the Mittens and Totem Pole, driving the 17-mile Valley Drive, and capturing stunning sunset views from John Ford Point.

A vast desert landscape featuring the iconic Mittens rock formations in Monument Valley VistaA vast desert landscape featuring the iconic Mittens rock formations in Monument Valley VistaDramatic red rock formations stand tall in Monument Valley, ArizonaDramatic red rock formations stand tall in Monument Valley, Arizona

  • Visitors Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536.
  • Location: Arizona–Utah border, southwestern United States.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Majestic, cinematic, and deeply spiritual.
  • Average temperatures: 16°C to 21°C.

Highlights… Guided Navajo tours, 17-mile Valley Drive, John Ford Point sunsets, Wildcat Trail hike.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago in October offers a lot of fun. The fall colors in the city’s parks reach their peak, bathing parks and tree-lined avenues in dazzling hues. Temperatures are mild, dry, and crisp, giving the whole place a cozy vibe. The city buzzes with seasonal events like Open House Chicago, the Chicago International Film Festival, Halloween celebrations in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park, and the Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights. Located in the north-central United States, Chicago is easily accessible. Visitors can sample brews at craft breweries, enjoy seasonal treats from local bakeries, stroll through Millennium Park, take an architecture cruise along the Chicago River, and catch special events like a horror movie marathon.

The iconic Chicago skyline viewed from across the water during the dayThe iconic Chicago skyline viewed from across the water during the dayA charming tree-lined street in a residential neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois during autumnA charming tree-lined street in a residential neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois during autumn

  • Visitors Center Address: 301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616.
  • Location: North-central United States.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Urban, energetic, and cultured.
  • Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C.

Highlights… Fall colors in parks, seasonal events and festivals, craft breweries, architectural boat tours.

6. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest is truly wowed visitors in October. The trees on rolling hills and in dense hardwood forests begin turning in late September, transforming into a sea of gold by mid-October. The crisp, cool air is perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Along the Scenic Byway, there are breathtaking views of the changing leaves reflected in the calm waters of the Allegheny Reservoir. Located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, it offers a serene natural escape. Activities include hiking trails like the Minister Creek Trail, taking in autumn views from overlooks like Rimrock and Jakes Rocks, and peaceful drives along the Longhouse Scenic Byway.

A dense forest landscape showcasing vibrant autumn colors in Allegheny Forest in OctoberA dense forest landscape showcasing vibrant autumn colors in Allegheny Forest in OctoberPanoramic view of Allegheny National Forest covered in stunning fall foliagePanoramic view of Allegheny National Forest covered in stunning fall foliage

  • Visitors Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County.
  • Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania in the northeastern United States.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Serene, rustic, and nature-filled.
  • Average temperature: 10°C to 15°C.

Highlights… Leaf-peeping drives, hiking trails, overlooks, mountain biking with panoramic views.

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Visiting this laid-back beach town in October is ideal because the summer crowds have faded, but it remains warm enough to swim in the turquoise ocean, relax on Orange Beach’s white sands, enjoy water sports, and explore family-friendly theme parks. There are also great deals on accommodation and fun events without the peak-season crowds, giving everything a more local feel. October features events like the Oktoberfest 5k, National Shrimp Festival, and the Alabama Festival of Flavor. Located on the Gulf Coast of the USA, visitors can relax on Gulf Shores Public Beach and West Beach, take dolphin-watching boat tours, and explore trails at Gulf State Park.

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A vibrant beach scene with turquoise water and white sand in Gulf Shores, AlabamaA vibrant beach scene with turquoise water and white sand in Gulf Shores, AlabamaPeople enjoying the warm weather on the beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama in OctoberPeople enjoying the warm weather on the beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama in October

  • Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542.
  • Location: Gulf Coast of the USA in southern Alabama, southeastern part of the USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and beachy.
  • Average October temperature: 24°C to 29°C.

Highlights… Warm beach weather, fewer crowds, seasonal festivals (Shrimp Festival), beach yoga sessions.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Visiting this stunning alpine wilderness in the fall is wonderful, especially when the colorful foliage peaks with golden aspen trees lighting up the mountainsides. October is also elk rutting season, and they can be seen in full force throughout the valleys, complete with bugling. The summer crowds dwindle, and visitors can still enjoy scenic drives on Trail Ridge Road before snowfall closes it for the season. Located in north-central Colorado, it’s a majestic destination. Activities include driving the high-altitude Trail Ridge Road for panoramic views, hiking among golden aspens on trails like Bear Lake Loop and Ouzel Falls, and enjoying peaceful scenery with fewer people.

A beautiful lake surrounded by golden aspen trees in Rocky Mountain National Park during autumnA beautiful lake surrounded by golden aspen trees in Rocky Mountain National Park during autumnGolden aspen trees illuminate the slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado during OctoberGolden aspen trees illuminate the slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado during October

  • Visitors Information: 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397.
  • Location: North-central part of Colorado, in the western USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Wild, peaceful, and awe-inspiring.
  • Average temperature: 4°C to 13°C.

Highlights… Golden aspens, elk rutting season, Trail Ridge Road drives, scenic hikes, fewer crowds.

9. Austin, Texas

Austin is a lot of fun for a city trip in October. Temperatures are much more comfortable than the summer heat, and the city embraces the season with fantastic fall and Halloween events. It buzzes with live music and outdoor patio dining, creating a lively atmosphere. Austin has a seriously packed calendar of events, including the annual Austoberfest, the colorful Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, 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. Located in central Texas, Austin is known for its creative and energetic vibe. Visitors can explore historic 6th Street, enjoy craft beer, hike in nearby McKinney Falls State Park, and discover quirky shops along South Congress Avenue. For those mindful of budget, finding cheap places to travel in october might include exploring accommodation options outside the immediate downtown core or visiting during weekday periods.

The vibrant cityscape of Austin, Texas under a blue skyThe vibrant cityscape of Austin, Texas under a blue skyAustin, Texas skyline featuring the city's buildings and a bridgeAustin, Texas skyline featuring the city's buildings and a bridge

  • Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701.
  • Location: In central Texas, in the south-central part of the USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Creative, energetic, and laid-back.
  • Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C.

Highlights… Comfortable temperatures, fall and Halloween events, live music scene, craft breweries, McKinney Falls State Park.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

October is the perfect time to visit this red-rock wonderland. The scorching summer heat eases into pleasant temperatures, ideal for hiking and photography. The red rock formations glow under softer autumn light, and the popular trails are much less crowded than in peak season. Located near Moab, Utah, in the south-central part of the US, Arches National Park offers unique experiences. Visitors can hike to iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch at sunset, explore areas like Devil’s Garden, drive the Scenic Park Road, and stargaze under clear skies free from light pollution.

Iconic Delicate Arch framing the landscape at Arches National Park, UtahIconic Delicate Arch framing the landscape at Arches National Park, UtahRed rock formations and landscape at Arches National Park in UtahRed rock formations and landscape at Arches National Park in Utah

  • Address: Arches National Park, U.S. 191 North, Moab, UT 84532.
  • Location: South-central part of the US.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Majestic, dramatic, and peaceful.
  • Average temperature: 15°C to 24°C.

Highlights… Pleasant hiking temperatures, softer autumn light, fewer crowds, Delicate Arch hike, stargazing, ranger-guided tours.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

This 469-mile scenic drive is absolutely stunning in October. The winding mountain road is blanketed with fiery red, orange, and gold leaves. The crisp air, numerous scenic overlooks, and peaceful hiking trails make it one of the most breathtaking autumn drives in the country. Wildlife, like deer, wild turkeys, and black bears foraging for food, can be slightly less elusive. Located between North Carolina and Virginia, the Parkway offers endless opportunities for exploration. Highlights include driving to picturesque spots like Looking Glass Falls and Grandfather Mountain, seeing Sliding Rock, viewing foliage from Linn Cove Viaduct and Richland Balsam Overlook, and staying in quaint mountain towns along the route.

The winding Blue Ridge Parkway highway surrounded by vibrant autumn leavesThe winding Blue Ridge Parkway highway surrounded by vibrant autumn leavesAutumn view of the Blue Ridge Parkway winding through the mountains in VirginiaAutumn view of the Blue Ridge Parkway winding through the mountains in Virginia

  • Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219.
  • Location: North Carolina and Virginia, in the Southeastern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Serene, scenic, and natural.
  • Average temperature: 13°C to 21°C.

Highlights… Vibrant fall foliage drives, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, wildlife spotting, wineries, Grandfather Mountain swinging bridge.

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, a high-elevation mountain city, is lovely during an October road trip. It boasts fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, vibrant fall colors, crisp mountain air, and golden aspen leaves on scenic drives, creating a cozy, seasonal charm. The city also hosts awesome seasonal events like Oktoberfest, the family-friendly Pumpkin Walk, the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, and Celebraciones de la Gente, which celebrates Mexican history and culture. Located in northern Arizona along historic U.S. Route 66, Flagstaff offers easy access to natural wonders and a lively downtown. Visitors can enjoy leaf-peeping drives on Snowbowl Road, visit Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and explore downtown with its craft breweries, live music, and quirky independent stores.

Road winding through golden aspen trees in Flagstaff, Arizona during autumnRoad winding through golden aspen trees in Flagstaff, Arizona during autumnA road bordered by trees displaying brilliant fall colors in Flagstaff, ArizonaA road bordered by trees displaying brilliant fall colors in Flagstaff, Arizona

  • Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.
  • Location: Located in northern Arizona, in the Southwestern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: High-altitude, cozy, and outdoorsy.
  • Average temperature: 15°C to 21°C.

Highlights… Fall colors (aspens), cooler weather, seasonal events, historic Route 66, nearby natural monuments, craft breweries.

13. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park is perfect for an October fall break. Golden aspens and cottonwoods light up the valleys, elk bugle through the crisp autumn air, the summer crowds are gone, and the snow-dusted Teton Range provides a breathtaking fall backdrop. Temperatures are more comfortable for hiking, and resident wildlife is very active, with bears foraging before hibernation. Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton is majestic and rugged. Visitors can hike colorful trails like Taggart Lake and Jenny Lake, spot elk and moose in the Snake River Valley, drive the scenic Teton Park Road for foliage views, and admire snow-kissed peaks from overlooks like Oxbow Bend and Mormon Row.

The Grand Teton mountain range reflected in a lake during autumnThe Grand Teton mountain range reflected in a lake during autumnGolden aspen trees frame the majestic Teton Range in Grand Teton National Park, WyomingGolden aspen trees frame the majestic Teton Range in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

  • Park Headquarters address: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012.
  • Location: Northwestern Wyoming, Western USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Majestic, rugged, and pristine.
  • Average temperature: 7°C to 13°C.

Highlights… Fall foliage, elk rutting, fewer crowds, comfortable hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, Golden Hour photography.

14. Maui, Hawaii

This lush Hawaiian island is a dreamy fall destination. In October, the weather is warm and sunny but less humid, crowds have thinned, and hotel rates are lower. Visitors can enjoy peaceful beaches, snorkeling, and scenic drives in a more relaxed atmosphere. Temperatures remain warm enough for swimming. There’s also a packed calendar of events, including the festive Maui Fair, scenic Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch, and the gourmet Hawaii Food and Wine Festival. Located in the Central Pacific, Maui offers a tropical escape. Highlights include relaxing on beaches like Napili Bay, driving the quieter Road to Hana, hiking cooler trails at Haleakalā National Park, and enjoying fresh local food at the Maui County Fair.

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The beautiful coastline of Maui, Hawaii with blue water and lush hillsThe beautiful coastline of Maui, Hawaii with blue water and lush hillsA serene beach scene in Maui, Hawaii with palm trees and calm blue waterA serene beach scene in Maui, Hawaii with palm trees and calm blue water

  • Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732.
  • Location: Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian Islands in the USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Tropical, relaxed, and dreamy.
  • Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C.

Highlights… Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, lower rates, peaceful beaches, seasonal festivals, Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

This picturesque peninsula is charming in October when fall colors are in full bloom. Charming towns host festive harvest events, and the crisp air, scenic lakeshore drives, and peaceful parks create a truly idyllic autumn escape. Visitors can join cozy seasonal events, including the fun Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay, which features a parade, local crafts, and food stalls. Located in northeastern Wisconsin, Door County offers beautiful drives like the Highway 42 Scenic Byway, leading to charming waterfront towns like Fish Creek, Egg Harbor, and Baileys Harbor.

A scenic road winding through vibrant autumn colors in Door County, WisconsinA scenic road winding through vibrant autumn colors in Door County, WisconsinAutumn scene in Door County, Wisconsin with trees displaying fall colorsAutumn scene in Door County, Wisconsin with trees displaying fall colors

  • Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI.
  • Location: Northeastern Wisconsin, Midwestern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Charming, laid-back, and picturesque.
  • Average temperature: 10°C to 16°C.

Highlights… Full fall colors, harvest festivals, scenic lakeshore drives, charming towns, unique shops.

16. Big Sur, California

Big Sur can be very crowded in the summer, making October a perfect alternative choice. The coastal weather is clear and mild, summer crowds have faded, humpback whales migrate along the coast, and the ocean views along Highway 1 are especially breathtaking in the fall light, making photography even more magical. There are also better rates and easier availability for accommodation. October brings events like the Big Sur River Run, Halloween celebrations, and local live music. Located between Carmel and San Simeon in the Western USA, Big Sur is known for its dramatic, rugged coastline. Visitors can hike redwood-filled trails in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, drive across the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, spot migrating whales, and enjoy peaceful views at McWay Falls.

The dramatic coastline and cliffs of Big Sur, CaliforniaThe dramatic coastline and cliffs of Big Sur, CaliforniaUnique yurts set up as accommodation in the natural landscape of Big Sur, CaliforniaUnique yurts set up as accommodation in the natural landscape of Big Sur, California

  • Visitors Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920.
  • Location: Between Carmel in the north and San Simeon in the south (90 miles), Western USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Dramatic, rugged, and tranquil.
  • Average temperatures: 18°C to 24°C.

Highlights… Mild weather, fewer crowds, whale migration, stunning coastal drives (Highway 1), Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Bixby Creek Bridge.

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

This affluent, scenic, hilly region is totally charming on a fall trip. In October, the rolling hills explode with brilliant fall colors. The charming towns host many cozy harvest festivals, and visitors can enjoy crisp-air hikes, farm-to-table dining, and world-class art and music surrounded by breathtaking autumn scenery. Summer crowds have faded, accommodation rates can be lower, and there are 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. Located in western Massachusetts, The Berkshires offer stunning drives like the Mohawk Trail, hikes up Mount Greylock for incredible views, and cozy towns like Lenox and Great Barrington for dining and atmosphere.

Rolling hills covered in vibrant autumn foliage in The Berkshires, MassachusettsRolling hills covered in vibrant autumn foliage in The Berkshires, MassachusettsA picturesque view of rolling hills with scattered houses and autumn trees in The Berkshires, MassachusettsA picturesque view of rolling hills with scattered houses and autumn trees in The Berkshires, Massachusetts

  • Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202.
  • Location: Western Massachusetts, in the Northeastern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Tranquil, artsy, and scenic.
  • Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C.

Highlights… Brilliant fall colors, harvest festivals, scenic drives, hiking, farm-to-table dining, art scene, apple picking.

18. Las Vegas

Las Vegas in October offers a much more comfortable experience than the scorching summer. The heat eases into a pleasant warmth, perfect for exploring the Strip, attending outdoor events and concerts, and dining on rooftop terraces. Crowds thin, hotel prices can be great, and seasonal festivals abound, from the Las Vegas Pride Festival to Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest. Halloween is a big deal in Las Vegas, with decorations along the LINQ Promenade, unique parties like the Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, and even spooky ghost tours in nearby abandoned towns like Goodsprings. Located in southern Nevada, Las Vegas offers an energetic, glamorous, and entertainment-packed vibe year-round, with October providing a more temperate window to enjoy its many attractions. For those interested in different types of events or perhaps comparing destinations for specific dates, considering best places to travel for 4th of july could offer a contrast in seasonal timing and focus.

The famous Las Vegas Strip with its many hotels and casinos lit up at nightThe famous Las Vegas Strip with its many hotels and casinos lit up at night

  • Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101.
  • Location: Southern Nevada, Southwestern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Energetic, glamorous, and entertainment-packed.
  • Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C.

Highlights… Comfortable weather, fewer crowds, lower prices, seasonal festivals, Halloween events, exploring the Strip.

19. Charleston, South Carolina

This historic coastal city in October offers pleasantly warm weather with low humidity. The summer crowds are gone, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor dining under oak-shaded piazzas and stroll through historic neighborhoods glowing in the atmospheric fall light. There are often great hotel deals and lots of lively seasonal events, including the MOJA Arts Festival, Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens, the Charleston Beerfest, the family-friendly Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch, and many Halloween events. Located in southeastern South Carolina, Charleston is known for its historic, charming, and vibrant vibe. Highlights include wandering through the historic French Quarter, exploring Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row, and visiting Boone Hall Plantation in the comfortable autumn weather.

A picturesque street scene with historic buildings and palm trees in Charleston, South CarolinaA picturesque street scene with historic buildings and palm trees in Charleston, South CarolinaA beautiful historic house with large windows and porch in Charleston, South CarolinaA beautiful historic house with large windows and porch in Charleston, South Carolina

  • North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
  • Location: Southeastern South Carolina, Southeastern USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Historic, charming, and vibrant.
  • Average temperatures: 24°C to 29°C.

Highlights… Pleasant warm weather, low humidity, fewer crowds, historic neighborhoods, seasonal events, outdoor dining.

20. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This scenic natural area is especially stunning in October. Forested trails and river valleys burst into vibrant fall colors, and the crisp air is perfect for hiking and biking. Scenic train rides offer another way to enjoy the autumn beauty. There’s a cozy fall vibe, temperatures are mild and comfortable, and seasonal events like the Szalays Sweet Corn and Farmers Market and the nostalgic Hale Farm & Village Harvest Festival add to the charm. Located in Northeastern Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is easily accessible from Cleveland. Visitors can hike to Brandywine Falls, see foliage views from Ledges Overlook and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, and take a trip on the quaint Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.

Waterfall cascading over rocks in Cuyahoga Valley National Park during autumnWaterfall cascading over rocks in Cuyahoga Valley National Park during autumnScenic view of a river winding through Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio during fallScenic view of a river winding through Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio during fall

  • Address: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125.
  • Location: Northeastern Ohio, Midwestern region of the USA.
  • Map Location
  • Vibe: Tranquil, natural, and picturesque.
  • Average temperature: 13°C to 18°C.

Highlights… Vibrant fall colors, hiking and biking, scenic train rides, seasonal markets and festivals.

Conclusion

October offers a fantastic window to explore the United States, with diverse destinations providing everything from stunning fall foliage and comfortable hiking weather to lively seasonal events and fewer crowds. From the historic charm of the East Coast and the natural wonders of the West to the warm southern beaches and vibrant city life, there is a perfect October getaway for every traveler. By choosing to travel in October, visitors can often experience the best of these locations with the added benefit of pleasant temperatures and a unique autumn atmosphere, making it one of the best times for a US adventure.

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