Travel

The Best Travel Destinations in the US in November: Shock Naue Guide

0 5 17 minutes read
Telluride town view with mountains in Colorado
Telluride town view with mountains in Colorado

As fall fades and winter approaches, I’ve always loved November for its peaceful atmosphere, cooler weather, and beautiful scenery. After living in the USA for several years, I found this month perfect for exploring everything from unique small towns to Insta-worthy national parks. Finding the Best Travel Destinations In The Us In November offers a unique blend of lingering autumn beauty and the early festive spirit, often with fewer crowds than peak seasons. Based on my personal experiences, here are some of my favorite gems across the country that truly shine in November.

Telluride, Colorado

I loved visiting this scenic mountain town at the end of November, just as ski season was starting to kick off—depending on the weather and snowfall—and I found several resorts beginning to open throughout the month.

Telluride town view with mountains in ColoradoTelluride town view with mountains in Colorado

It was still too early for the peak crowds, so I got to enjoy early-season skiing, the cozy mountain town ambiance, and the bars, restaurants, and attractions in full swing – and slightly better deals on accommodation (bonus)!

I drove 6 hours from Denver for a short break. I went downhill and cross-country skiing, took the free gondola ride to the cute European-style Mountain Village, and tasted craft beers at the trendy Telluride Brewing Co., one of the biggest microbreweries in the country!

Snow-capped mountains surrounding Telluride, ColoradoSnow-capped mountains surrounding Telluride, Colorado

New York

I loved visiting the famous metropolis in November, as the city was filled with festive late fall charm, cozy weather, and seasonal events that captured both the beauty of fall and the early holiday spirit – before the big crowds arrived in December!

Ice skating rink with skyscrapers in New York CityIce skating rink with skyscrapers in New York City

From the incredible window dressings in the shops on Fifth Avenue to the gorgeous festive decorations, I just loved how magical the city was on the run-up to Christmas.

I found that there was an incredible array of events on offer and my favorites ended up as being the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the fun New York Comedy Festival, and the opening of the Bryant Park Winter Village and Union Square Holiday Market. For those who travel for work, combining a business trip with the city’s early holiday charm in November can be a delightful experience.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon floats in New YorkMacy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon floats in New York

I flew into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and used my digital nomad status to stay for a whole month. I went skating the iconic Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink (of course!), strolled through Central Park’s gorgeous fall foliage, and gazed at the iconic skyline from The Edge Observation Deck, all while enjoying fewer crowds and crisp autumn weather.

View of the New York City skyline from The Edge observation deckView of the New York City skyline from The Edge observation deck

Kauai, Hawaii

I personally think this lush, tropical island makes a magical vacation destination all year round, but when I visited in mid-November, I found the weather mild and pleasant—and thankfully, the crowds much thinner than in peak summer. I loved how perfect it was for exploring the island’s lush landscapes, hiking to waterfalls, and unwinding on its paradise-like beaches!

Lush green landscape of Kauai island in HawaiiLush green landscape of Kauai island in Hawaii

It was just before the start of the rainy season (which started at the end of this month) and as well as finding some great deals on hotels and flights, I also discovered some awesome events to attend such as the annual Kauai Marathon and of course all the lively Thanksgiving celebrations including the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot & Shoot.

Waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff in Kauai, HawaiiWaterfall cascading down a rocky cliff in Kauai, Hawaii

I flew into Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) and stayed for a dreamy 10 days mostly relaxing on the crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay. I also explored the iconic Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and the beautiful Wailua Falls and went on a whale-watching boat tour – this month was also the start of the humpback whale watching season! For those seeking a tranquil island getaway in November, Kauai presents a strong case for being among the safest island to travel to options within the US.

Beach bar party scene on the sand in KauaiBeach bar party scene on the sand in Kauai

Charleston, South Carolina

November was actually a great choice to visit this historic coastal city! I found the weather mild and pleasant, the fall foliage added to the city’s charm, and I loved exploring with fewer crowds and dining at cozy restaurants offering seasonal menus.

Historic street with colorful buildings in Charleston, South CarolinaHistoric street with colorful buildings in Charleston, South Carolina

I found some excellent deals on accommodation (due to it being off season!) and lots of awesome events taking place too. My favorites were the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, the Charleston Literary Festival, the family-friendly Harvest Festival, the annual Turkey Day Run, and the pretty Festival of Lights.

Rainbow Row historic homes in Charleston, South CarolinaRainbow Row historic homes in Charleston, South Carolina

I flew into Charleston International Airport (CHS) and stayed for a short late fall break. I strolled through the historic French Quarter, gazed at the fall colors at Magnolia Plantation, explored Boone Hall Plantation, and took a scenic boat tour of the harbor.

Cobblestone street in historic Charleston, South CarolinaCobblestone street in historic Charleston, South Carolina

The Florida Keys

I vacationed in the tropical archipelago during this month and found that weather was pleasantly warm and sunny, but with far fewer crowds than in peak season, so it was ideal for snorkeling, swimming and boating in peace.

Tropical beach and palm trees in the Florida KeysTropical beach and palm trees in the Florida Keys

It was also more affordable than the peak months, less humid and it’s also when hurricane season officially winds down, wrapping up its June to November stretch.

Pelicans perched on a dock in the Florida KeysPelicans perched on a dock in the Florida Keys

I also found lots of locals festivals and events to attend such as the Key West Fantasy Fest, the Key West Film Festival, and the World Offshore Powerboat Championship.

I flew into Fly into Key West International Airport (EYW) and spent a beautiful 10 years relaxing on the sandy beaches, my favorites were the white sand Higgs Beach on Key West and the quiet Sombrero Beach in Marathon. I also explored the coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, drove the scenic Overseas Highway, discovered exquisite mangroves on Islamorada and gazed at Insta-worthy sunsets!

Flagstaff, Arizona

I stopped by this scenic mountain city during this month last year and found it was a very atmospheric time to visit.

Downtown street in Flagstaff, Arizona, with mountains in the backgroundDowntown street in Flagstaff, Arizona, with mountains in the background

The air had turned crisp, fall colors still lingered in the forests, snow had begun to dust the nearby San Francisco Peaks, and I loved soaking up the cozy mountain town vibes, scenic hikes without the peak-season crowds.

It’s also a great month to explore as the cooler temperatures make it easier for longer hikes and I found the accommodation came with off season prices too which was awesome!

Historic Hotel Monte Vista building sign in Flagstaff, ArizonaHistoric Hotel Monte Vista building sign in Flagstaff, Arizona

I stopped off on my travels on the famous Route 66 and stayed for a unique three days. I explored the fall colors in Coconino National Forest, hiked along Fatman’s Loop (and saw incredible volcanic rock formations), enjoyed incredible stargazing at Lowell Observatory and discovered all the excellent eateries, cute coffee shops, wine bars, and cool craft breweries!

Road winding through trees with fall colors near Flagstaff, ArizonaRoad winding through trees with fall colors near Flagstaff, Arizona

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Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

I took a trip to this famous U.S. national park during this month and didn’t regret my choice! I found the fall foliage had lingered at lower elevations, the crowds had thinned out, the wildlife such as the deer and elk were more active, the temperatures were cool enough for long hikes and the scenic drives were both peaceful and beautiful.

Misty morning view of the Great Smoky Mountains National ParkMisty morning view of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

I also found that the accommodation options were much more affordable and festive events and local craft fairs bought a cozy, holiday charm to the region. Visiting a major national park like this can feel like a far cry from a travel camp, offering vast wilderness experiences instead of organized camping facilities.

Black bear walking through grass in the Great Smoky MountainsBlack bear walking through grass in the Great Smoky Mountains

I discovered that the events were a festive mix of late fall celebrations like the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival, and early Christmas magic with events like Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood and Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, which dazzled with millions of lights.

I drove an hour and 10 minutes from nearby Asheville and stayed for a cozy four days. I enjoyed less crowded hikes through beautiful fall foliage in Cades Cove and on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Historic steam train of the Great Smoky Mountains RailroadHistoric steam train of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

I went for taking scenic leaf-peeping drives on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Newfound Gap Road, spotted wildlife like elk in Cataloochee Valley, and shopped for unique handcrafted goods at the Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show.

Death Valley National Park, California

I took a trip to this desert landscape during November and discovered the scorching summer heat had given way to mild, comfortable (and much safer!) temperatures which were perfect for exploring the surreal landscapes and sunrise views from Zabriskie Point without the risk of heat exhaustion!

Death Valley desert landscape under a crescent moonDeath Valley desert landscape under a crescent moon

There were also far fewer crowds (spring is peak season), the conditions are perfect for star-gazing and on Veterans Day (the 11th), the entrance to the park is free!

Road stretching through the vast, empty desert landscape of Death ValleyRoad stretching through the vast, empty desert landscape of Death Valley

I also discovered there were lots of other interesting events on including the cowboy-focused Death Valley ’49ers Encampment, Death Valley Century Cycle Ride and the Fall Star Party where astronomy enthusiasts gathered at Sunset Campground!

I flew into Las Vegas, drove two hours and stayed for an extraordinary three days. I hiked comfortably through Golden Canyon, gazed at the Insta-worthy sunrise from Zabriskie Point, and walked across the surreal salt flats at Badwater Basin.

Badwater Basin salt flats in Death Valley National ParkBadwater Basin salt flats in Death Valley National Park

Bayou Country, Louisiana

This made a very unique fall break! When I took a trip there during this month I discovered that the weather was cooler and less humid, the mosquitoes had largely disappeared, and it was an awesome time to explore the hauntingly beautiful swamps on boat tours and attend Cajun music festivals without the peak summer crowds!

House on stilts in a swamp in Bayou Country, LouisianaHouse on stilts in a swamp in Bayou Country, Louisiana

I also found that the hotels offered enticing discounts, the fall foliage added a splash of color, and the wildlife was more active thanks to the cooler temperatures and fewer insects – making it a great time for spotting alligators.

Alligator swimming in a swamp in Bayou Country, LouisianaAlligator swimming in a swamp in Bayou Country, Louisiana

I flew into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), then drove two hour to reach the Bayou Country towns of Houma which I made my starting point and explored for an extraordinary full week.

I visited the historic Oak Alley Plantation, took a drive along the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway, went on boat tour of the swamps, caught Live Music at Landry Vineyards in West Monroe and celebrated National Louisiana Day (on the 9th) – the jazz music was awesome!

Swamp boat tour in Bayou Country, USASwamp boat tour in Bayou Country, USA

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Visiting The Capitol Reef National Park during this month turned out to be an excellent idea! I found the cooler temperatures made hiking the striking red rock canyons and exploring scenic trails far more comfortable, and the crowds were minimal so I could enjoy the dramatic desert landscapes and golden cottonwood trees in peace.

Dramatic red rock landscape in Capitol Reef National Park, UtahDramatic red rock landscape in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Also the low-angle sunlight cast a magical glow across the Waterpocket Fold and sandstone cliffs.

Scenic drive through Capitol Reef National Park with striking rock formationsScenic drive through Capitol Reef National Park with striking rock formations

I drove to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), and drove 4 hours southeast to reach the park and stayed for a beautiful four days.

I hiked to Cassidy Arch, walked the scenic Capitol Gorge Trail, admired the fall colors along the Fremont River near Fruita, enjoyed stargazing in the International Dark Sky Park, and explored the remote Cathedral Valley which was filled with dramatic monoliths – all in cool, peaceful conditions!

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I took a short trip to this historic city one November and found that the pretty fall foliage was still lingering in its many parks and river valleys, the atmospheric crisp air was perfect for exploring its charming neighborhoods and historic sites.

Skyline of Pittsburgh, USA with rivers and bridgesSkyline of Pittsburgh, USA with rivers and bridges

I also discovered that Festive lights had also start appearing downtown and at Phipps Conservatory, and I could catch the start of the holiday season with seasonal events – my favorites were the Light Up Night and enjoyed the cozy cafes, museums, and scenic views from the Duquesne Incline without the summer crowds.

Historical architecture building in Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaHistorical architecture building in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I flew into Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) and stayed for a fun three days. I rode the Duquesne Incline and saw great fall views, explored the Carnegie Museums, browsed handmade goods at the Holiday Market in Market Square, and sampled craft beers in the unique Church Craft Brew Works.

Pittsburgh city skyline and buildings lit up at nightPittsburgh city skyline and buildings lit up at night

Gulf Shores, Alabama

I found this charming coastal city made an awesome November vacation! The weather was still pleasantly warm, with highs in the 70s (°F), the summer crowds had disappeared, accommodations were more affordable, and it was the perfect time for peaceful beach walks, spotting migratory birds at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and kayaking the calm coastal waters.

At the beginning of the month I found it was still warm enough to swim and I also just loved just relaxing on the beach and watching the waves! I also found there was lots of great events including the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, the Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival had a variety of food trucks and craft beer selections.

Gulf Shores sign with palm trees and beach backdropGulf Shores sign with palm trees and beach backdrop

I flew into Pensacola International Airport (PNS) in Florida, then drove an hour west and stayed for a week. I relaxed on the quiet beaches (my favorites were Cotton Bayou Beach and the quieter Alabama Point East), hiked and birdwatched at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, explored Gulf State Park’s trails and pier, and kayaked the calm coastal waters.

Beach chairs and umbrellas on the sand in Gulf Shores, Alabama, in NovemberBeach chairs and umbrellas on the sand in Gulf Shores, Alabama, in November

Albuquerque, New Mexico

New Mexico‘s largest city made an awesome late fall trip. I found the summer heat a bit too intense, so I was thankful for the cooler – but still mild – temperatures and the lighter crowds. As a Breaking Bad fan, it was the perfect time to seek out filming locations without loads of other tourists around!

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Hot air balloons over the city of Albuquerque, New MexicoHot air balloons over the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico

The crisp, sunny days were also perfect for hiking and exploring and there were gorgeous views of golden cottonwoods along the Rio Grande.

Intricate wooden door with blue frame in Albuquerque, New MexicoIntricate wooden door with blue frame in Albuquerque, New Mexico

I also loved checking out the colorful festivals. I saw that the whole month was full – there was the fun Dia de los Muertos, the vibrant Southwest Arts and Crafts Festivals, the lively Albuquerque Tango Festival, the Enchantment – Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival and the super-cute Doggie Dash and Dawdle!

I flew into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and spent a fun long weekend exploring. I explored the adobe charm of Old Town, rode the Sandia Peak Tramway, and hiked the cool-weather trails of the Sandia Mountains.

Los Angeles, California

This Southern California city enjoys some of the warmest temperatures in the country during this month, and I visited off-season to find some winter sun and to soak up the golden rays at its many parks and beaches!

Panoramic view of Downtown Los Angeles skylinePanoramic view of Downtown Los Angeles skyline

When I visited in November, I found the weather was still sunny and mild with little rain, so it was perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions, beaches and neighborhoods without the crazy peak-season crowds.

Rocky coast and beach view of El Matador Beach in Southern CaliforniaRocky coast and beach view of El Matador Beach in Southern California

Accommodation was also much more affordable (and easier to find!) and I loved how the city had a more intimate and local feel once the camera-clicking crowds had dispersed. With a legendary bar and club scene, I also found it was a great choice for a lively birthday getaway!

I also discovered there was a lot of fun events being hosted during this month including the lively Día de los Muertos celebrations, the LA Auto Show at the Convention Center, the Infinity Festival Hollywood and eclectic music and art at the Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival.

I flew into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and stayed for a fun four days. I dined al fresco at Gracias Madre on a warm evening when the city had taken on a quieter charm, watched an Insta-worthy sunset at Griffith Park, and combined a scenic hike with a bit of celebrity-spotting at Runyon Canyon.

Adirondack Mountains, New York State

I took a late fall vacation to this underrated vast mountain range and I found it was a great choice! The air was crisp and peaceful, giving the whole place a cozy vibe. The last bursts of fall color still lingered in the lower elevations, and the hiking trails and scenic drives were beautifully quiet.

Lake Placid village and lake in the Adirondack Mountains in NovemberLake Placid village and lake in the Adirondack Mountains in November

I also found that the cozy lodges and lakeside resorts offered fantastic off-season deals, and the small towns of Lake Placid and Saranac Lake felt especially magical and romantic with the first hints of snow and the festive, wintry charm beginning to set in.

Rustic lodge building near a lake in the Adirondack MountainsRustic lodge building near a lake in the Adirondack Mountains

I took a 5 hours drove from New York City and spent a gorgeous week hiking the peaceful trails in Cascade Mountain, enjoying the early snow-sprinkled views around Lake Placid and taking a very scenic drive along Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway.

Golden Arrow Resort hotel sign near Lake PlacidGolden Arrow Resort hotel sign near Lake Placid

Galena, Illinois

I discovered this charming small historic town made a great November mini-break. There were no tourist crowds at all and the town had taken on a cozy, festive atmosphere and the holiday lights had begun to twinkle along historic Main Street.

Historic buildings along Main Street in Galena, IllinoisHistoric buildings along Main Street in Galena, Illinois

The crisp weather was perfect for browsing boutique shops, sipping wine at local vineyards, and I also found out that there were some charming seasonal events on too such as The General’s Christmas Ball, the Annual Nouveau Parade & Celebration, and Nouveau Wine Weekend which were all set against a backdrop of gorgeous rolling hills and beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.

Colorful historic buildings in downtown Galena, IllinoisColorful historic buildings in downtown Galena, Illinois

I drove three hours from Chicago and stayed for a long weekend browsing the festive shops along historic Main Street, touring Ulysses S. Grant’s Home, and enjoying cozy riverside views from Grant Park!

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

I thought this charming coastal town was a gorgeous hidden gem when I explored it last early November. The weather was warm but comfortable, the beaches and boutique-filled downtown were peaceful without the summer crowds, and I found some great accommodation deals – all set against the backdrop of an oak-shaded, coastal retreat.

Live oak trees lining a street in Ocean Springs, MississippiLive oak trees lining a street in Ocean Springs, Mississippi

I also discovered that the town had come alive with the lively Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival – Mississippi’s largest fine arts event – where I saw live music, gorged on locally produced food, and saw hundreds of talented artists.

View of the beach and pier in Ocean Springs, MississippiView of the beach and pier in Ocean Springs, Mississippi

I drove 90 minutes from New Orleans and stayed for a relaxing four days. I strolled along the live-oak-lined streets of downtown, explored coastal art at the Walter Anderson Museum, enjoyed mild beach walks along Front Beach.

Chiricahua National Monument

I found out that this remote and scenic park made a unique November trip! I discovered that the cooler temperatures mad hiking the scenic trails far more comfortable, the skies were clear so I saw stunning views of the hoodoos and rock pinnacles (and it was also great for photography).

View of the unique rock formations in Chiricahua National Monument in NovemberView of the unique rock formations in Chiricahua National Monument in November

Overall, I found that the peaceful, crowd-free setting made it easy to truly enjoy the dramatic landscapes, migratory birds, and the beautiful late-season desert colors.

Scenic drive through the rock formations at Chiricahua National MonumentScenic drive through the rock formations at Chiricahua National Monument

I flew into Tucson International Airport, and drove about 3 hours southeast and stayed for three days. This was enough to hike the Echo Canyon Loop, take a scenic drive on Bonita Canyon Drive, spot birds along the Massai Nature Trail, and enjoy exploring the dramatic volcanic landscapes and surreal rock formations in peace!

Rockport Harbor, Texas

I explored this picturesque marina during the month and found the weather mild and breezy – perfect for strolling along the waterfront and birdwatching, especially with the arrival of the migratory birds.

Boats docked at Rockport Harbor, Texas with a calm bayBoats docked at Rockport Harbor, Texas with a calm bay

The crowds had really thinned out since the peak summer season, and the whole place had a relaxed, small-town coastal charm – with very affordable prices too, which was a bonus! I also timed my visit with the start of the Rockport Film Festival, which showcased an inspiring mix of independent films from Texas and around the world.

Colorful sunrise over Rockport Harbor, Texas with boats and pierColorful sunrise over Rockport Harbor, Texas with boats and pier

I flew into Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP), then drove 45 minutes northeast and stayed for a short break. I went birdwatching at Goose Island State Park, explored the historic Fulton Mansion, and visited the interesting Rockport Center for the Arts.

Conclusion

November truly offers a unique window to explore the United States, providing opportunities to enjoy diverse landscapes and city experiences without the peak-season hustle. From the crisp mountain air and early snows to mild coastal warmth and vibrant city events, the destinations highlighted here showcase the best of what the US has to offer during this transitional month. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful getaway, November presents a compelling case for exploring these incredible locations.

0 5 17 minutes read

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