1. Telluride, Colorado
Ending November in beautiful Telluride turned out to be an awesome decision — ski season was just starting up, the slopes were quiet, the mountain-town vibe was cozy, early-season lodging deals were easy to snag, and I even caught the fun Thanksgiving Weekend celebrations. I drove 6.5 hours from Denver for an early four-day winter break and spent my mornings on the slopes.
I also squeezed in hopping on the free gondola to the European-style Mountain Village which had twinkling lights and gorgeous alpine architecture, sipped on a malty Festivus Holiday Ale at the buzzing Telluride Brewing Co. and soaked up the après-ski buzz in the vintage style Tomboy Tavern without the peak-season crowds. I should just mention that the snowfall can vary a lot from year to year especially during this month, so I was glad I checked conditions before booking!
Location: Southwest Colorado, western region of US | Vibe: arty, upscale alpine town | Avg temp: – 6 to 4°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the rustic-chic 4-star The Hotel Telluride – I was charmed by the boutique vibe, exposed Douglas fir beams, handy in-room yoga kits, and indulging in their blissful amethyst-infused ISUN oil facial!
2. New York
As I expected, New York City was truly magical this month — the air was crisp, Central Park shimmered in gold, and the city buzzed with early holiday cheer without December’s crowds. I flew into JFK and spent five cozy days at the trendy 4-star Moxy NYC Lower East Side.
I joined the lively Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, browsed the European-style Union Square Holiday Market scented with roasted chestnuts, and skated to festive tunes at Rockefeller Center. I also sipped hot buttered rum at the cozy Bryant Park’s Winter Village, and admired the sparkling skyline from the Empire State Building — all with the twinkling lights and better hotel deals than December!
Location: Mid-Atlantic, Northeast US | Vibe: dynamic and iconic | Avg temp: 4°C – 13°C
My personal highlights…
-
Discovering the enchanting Winter Highlights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, sipping on warm pear cider laced with cinnamon and clove and strolling through the Instagram-worthy ‘Winter Cathedral’ light tunnel!
3. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai made a magical early winter escape — warm breezes, light crowds, and pre-rainy season deals made it an awesome time to visit. I flew into Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) and spent ten dreamy days at the beautiful 4-star Koloa Landing Resort at Poʻipū, relaxing on Hanalei Bay’s crescent beach and enjoying Lilikoi Margarita at the The Beach House Restaurant.
I couldn’t resist hiking the Awaʻawapuhi Trail to the Awaʻawapuhi Lookout, exploring the stunning Waimea Canyon and dramatic Na Pali Coast, and joining Blue Ocean Adventures for a whale-watching cruise at the start of humpback season — even catching the island’s lively Thanksgiving Turkey Trot for a fun festive touch!
Location: Northernmost island in Hawaii’s Central Pacific region| Vibe: laid-back tropical paradise | Avg temp: 21°C – 27°C
My personal highlights…
- Savoring golden Baja fish tacos and a smoky black bean–jalapeño dip while watching the waves roll in at Duke’s Kauai on Taco Tuesday was bliss!
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston was wonderfully charming this month — mild weather, colorful fall foliage, and lighter crowds set me up beautifully for days of exploring! I loved cozying up in restaurants serving seasonal Lowcountry fare (I couldn’t get enough of the Okra and Tomato Stew!) and came across great off-season hotel deals, as well as the festive Turkey Day Run!
I flew into Charleston International Airport (CHS) and spent a lovely late-fall stay at the romantic 4-star Pinch Hotel, wandering the cobblestone streets of the pastel French Quarter, strolling among fiery leaves at the atmospheric Magnolia Plantation, and taking a breezy boat ride around the harbor with Sandlapper Water Tours as the city glowed in the golden autumn light.
Location: South Carolina, Southeastern US| Vibe: elegant coastal charm | Avg temp: 15-22°C
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on a blush-pink martini crowned with an edible violet accompanied by stone-fired margherita flatbreads topped with fresh basil at the trendy Rooftop at the Vendue.
5. The Florida Keys
My late-November escape to the Florida Keys was everything I’d hoped for — warm, sunny days without the humidity, hurricane season behind me, and lighter crowds and prices than winter made it ideal for peaceful snorkeling, swimming, and boating (though the short days meant early starts).
After landing at Key West International Airport (EYW), I spent ten days at the chic 4-star Islander Resort in Islamorada, relaxing under the palms and beach-hopping between family-friendly Higgs Beach in Key West and quiet Sombrero Beach in Marathon. I explored the Christ of the Abyss at Key Largo Dry Rocks, drove the scenic Overseas Highway, and caught the thrilling World Offshore Powerboat Championship — wrapping up each evening with fiery sunsets and even the star-studded Key West Film Festival.
Location: South Florida, southeast USA| Vibe: tropical and quirky island escape | Avg temp: 21°C – 27°C
My favorite highlights…
-
Exploring the nightlife on Duval Street, especially sipping on spicy watermelon margaritas served ice-cold in salt-rimmed mason jars at the legendary Sloppy Joe’s Bar!
6. Flagstaff, Arizona
My November stop in Flagstaff was simply gorgeous — the air was crisp, fall colors still lingered in the rugged Coconino National Forest, and the nearby volcanic San Francisco Peaks were dusted with early snow which gave the whole city an atmospheric cozy mountain feel. Cooler temperatures made hiking easier, off-season rates made hotels more affordable, and there were thankfully no peak-season crowds!
Halfway along my Route 66 journey, I paused at the ultra-cool 4-star Little America Hotel and my three days were spent on the photogenic Fatman’s Loop, winding through otherworldly volcanic rock formations and spotting Moon and Saturn’s rings under clear skies at Lowell Observatory. I also enjoyed uncovering local gems in the form of intimate wine bars, the lively Mother Road Brewing Company and indie coffee spots — Firecreek Coffee Company’s pumpkin lattes were heavenly!
Location: Northern Arizona, southwest US| Vibe: mountain-town cool | Avg temp: 7°C to 13°C
My highlights…
- Sampling the citrusy Daily Driver craft beer and gorging on spicy tater tots at the trendy Mother Road Brewing Company.
7. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Smokies were just beautiful when I took a trip here at the end of the month — lower elevations still glowed with fall color, crowds had thinned, and the crisp air made hiking and scenic drives a joy (I just started early to avoid the dark). Wildlife like elk and deer were easier to spot, and off-season rates made lodging a bargain.
I joined the fun at Pigeon Forge’s enchanting Winterfest, then spent seven cozy days hiking through golden Cades Cove, spotting bugling elk in peaceful Cataloochee Valley, and ending my trip at the Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show (I ended up with a dreamy painting of the Smokies themselves)!
Location: border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Southeast| Vibe: Misty, tranquil wilderness | Avg temp: 1°C- 14°C
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the boutique-style 4-star Historic Rocky Waters Inn – I loved the cozy romantic vibe, the fresh pine-scented air, and waking up to the zen-like sound of the river flowing past my balcony each morning!
8. Death Valley National Park, California
I found November to be the perfect time to explore Death Valley — the searing summer heat had finally given way to pleasantly warm, hike-friendly days without the worry of heat exhaustion! The park was wonderfully peaceful (rangers told me March and April were the busiest), the night skies were dazzling, and I even caught free entry on Veterans Day. Events that took place this month included the historic Death Valley ’49ers Encampment and the iconic Century Cycle Ride.
After flying into Las Vegas, I drove two hours to spend a very unique week at the 4-star Ranch at Death Valley, hiking the multihued walls of Golden Canyon, watching mesmerizing sunrises at Zabriskie Point, wandering the surreal salt flats at Badwater Basin, and joining the Ranger Talk: Life and Death in the Desert. Temperatures dropped fast after dark though, so I was glad I packed layers!
Location: Eastern California, southwest| Vibe: otherworldly and extreme | Avg temp: 9°C – 25°C
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a journey along Artist’s Drive and seeing the surreal swirls of mint green, lavender, pink, rust red, and yellow – the guide at the visitor center told me they were caused by oxidized metals in the volcanic rock.
9. Bayou Country, Louisiana
Moss-draped Bayou Country made a wonderfully unique late fall escape — cooler, less humid weather, no mosquitoes, and light crowds made it perfect for gliding through hauntingly beautiful swamps and enjoying lively Cajun festivals. With great off-season hotel deals, amber-streaked foliage, and active wildlife, everything about visiting this time of year just clicked!
I flew into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), drove two hours to Houma, then another 15 minutes to the charming Chateau on the Bayou Bed & Breakfast, my base for a truly extraordinary week. I explored grand Oak Alley Plantation, gorged on tasty Maque Choux and ended my trip celebrating National Louisiana Day with incredible live jazz!
Location: Southern Louisiana, southeast| Vibe: mysterious and soulful | Avg temp: 10°C – 21°C
My highlights…
- Going on a Cajun Country Swamp Tour, spotting menacing-looking alligators, blush-pink roseate spoonbills, and squawking great blue herons while breathing in lungfuls of the earthy cypress aroma!
10. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Visiting Capitol Reef in November really was an inspired choice — the cooler weather made hiking the red rock canyons effortless, the cottonwoods along the Fremont River glowed golden, and the trails were blissfully quiet. The low autumn sun cast a warm glow across the Waterpocket Fold and sandstone cliffs, making the scenery even more dramatic.
After flying into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), I set off on a four-hour scenic drive southeast and spent four incredible days hiking to striking Cassidy Arch, soaking up Fruita’s fall colors on the Cohab Canyon Trail, gazing at the Andromeda Galaxy in the International Dark Sky Park, and discovering the wild solitude of Cathedral Valley!
Location: South-central Utah, west US | Vibe: remote and rugged| Avg temp: -2°C to 12°C
My personal highlights…
-
Staying at the unique Capitol Reef Resort – I loved glamping in an authentic Conestoga wagon and sitting in a red Adirondack chair sipping on a Castle Creek Chardonnay by my propane fire pit!
11. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
I discovered November in Pittsburgh to be seriously cozy and atmospheric — fall foliage was still visible in the parks and river valleys, the crisp air made wandering its historic neighborhoods a joy, and festive lights were just starting to twinkle both downtown and at the historic Phipps Conservatory.
Flying into Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), I checked into the trendy 4-star Industrialist Hotel for five festive days — kicking off the holiday season with the dazzling Light Up Night, and hanging out at Helmut’s Strudel stall in European-style Peoples Gas Holiday Market. I also saw breathtaking golden hills views on the historic Duquesne Incline and dined on an inventive Red Beet Schnitzel at the trendy EYV Restaurant — all without the pesky summer crowds!
Location: Southwestern Pennsylvania, northeast US | Vibe: grit-meets-innovation| Avg temp: 7°C to 13°C
My highlights…
- Stopping by the Dancing Gnome Brewery for a fun night of brews and tasty bites from rotating pop-ups — my favorites were the fruity Spy Dolphin and the bold Track Botanical beer!
12. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores made a gorgeous warm winter escape — the weather stayed perfect for beach days and even early swims, the summer crowds were gone, and hotel rates were delightfully low. It was the ideal time for peaceful beach walks, birdwatching, and kayaking.
I flew into Pensacola International Airport (PNS), drove an hour west, and spent a very chilled week unwinding on quiet sands — the family-friendly Cotton Bayou Beach and dune-fringed Alabama Point East were my favorites! I hiked the paved Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, spotted dolphins on the Southern Rose Dolphin Trip, and soaked up the folk-country music at the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival. The locals also raved about the Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival happening later on in the month.
Location: Southern Alabama, southeastern US| Vibe: relaxed beach town| Avg temp: 10 – 23 °C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the modern 4-star The Lodge at Gulf State Park – I loved the gulf-facing infinity pool and the breezy rooftop garden with rose-pink muhly grass swaying in the salty air.
13. Albuquerque, New Mexico
I loved visiting Albuquerque in late fall — the summer heat had eased into cool, sunny days, crowds were lighter, and the golden cottonwoods along the Rio Grande were breathtaking. As a huge Breaking Bad fan, it was also a great time to explore filming spots without the tourist rush (seeing Walter White’s House was a treat!). The quirky city came alive with color this month — I caught the eerily beautiful Día de los Muertos celebrations and spotted posters for the Enchantment Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival.
Flying into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), I spent four days soaking up the city’s charm — from strolling the adobe-lined Old Town and riding the Sandia Peak Tramway at golden hour to hiking the crisp trails of the Sandia Mountains — all wrapped in late-fall beauty!
Location: Central New Mexico, southwest US | Vibe: quirky and artsy| Avg temp: 13°C to 18°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the funky 4-star ARRIVE Albuquerque – I loved the Insta-worthy décor and queuing up ‘Take Five’ on the powder-blue Victrola Bluetooth speaker that looked like a vintage radio!
14. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles made a gorgeous sunny late fall escape — bathed in warm, golden light and free from the usual crowds, exploring its beaches, parks, and stylish neighborhoods felt effortlessly laid-back! Hotels were easy to book and more affordable, and with fewer tourists, the city felt more local and chilled but still lively enough for my friend’s birthday trip.
I flew into LAX and spent five fun days at the chic 4-star Viceroy Santa Monica, dining al fresco on Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos at Gracias Madre, tackling Runyon Canyon, and watching the sun melt over the city skyline from Griffith Park! I also caught the soulful Día de los Muertos celebrations and saw that the LA Auto Show also took place this month.
Location: Southern California, west coast |Vibe: glamorous and eclectic| Avg temp: 21°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Stopping by the quirky Alfred Coffee in Beverly Hills for a creamy oat-milk matcha latte and a Greenie Bagel piled with fresh dill, chives, and crisp greens!
15. Adirondack Mountains, New York State
My late-fall trip to the Adirondacks was just so atmospheric — the air was crisp, the lower elevations still glowed with touches of autumn color, and the trails and scenic drives were blissfully quiet. Cozy lodges and lakeside resorts offered great off-season deals, and the tranquil lakes looked magical under their first dusting of snow.
I drove just over five hours from New York City and spent a cozy week hiking the more accessible Wallace Falls State Park trails, admiring the towering peaks around Lake Placid, and driving the photogenic Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway — it was an amazing time to stop at the reflective Lake Placid Scenic Overlook and soak up the mountain vibes before winter fully arrived!
Location: Northeast New York State, northeast US |Vibe: peaceful mountain escape| Avg temp: -4°C to 6°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the seriously Insta-worthy Lake Placid Lodge – I loved the misty lake views, romantic crackling fireplace, and my room’s four-poster bed of twisted tree branches with a birch-bark ceiling!
16. Galena, Illinois
My break in romantic Galena this month couldn’t have been better — the crowds had vanished, holiday lights twinkled along historic Main Street, and the whole town had a cozy, festive feel. The fresh fall air made me want to do it all — browse pretty boutiques, sip wine at family-run vineyards, and photograph all the unique sights!
I drove in just under three hours from Chicago and kicked back here for a unique long weekend exploring the well-preserved Ulysses S. Grant’s Home, browsing the decorated shops on charming Main Street (buying a cute ceramic hummingbird from The Little Traveler was a highlight!) and sampling fruity Beaujolais Nouveaus at the gourmet Nouveau Wine Weekend. I discovered from locals that the festive Annual Nouveau Parade & Celebration also took place this month!
Location: Northwestern Illinois, Midwest|Vibe: romantic and charming| Avg temp: 4°C to 12°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the historic Galena Inn – I adored the cozy firepit, romantic vibe, and stargazing from the outdoor hot tub with a glass of crisp local Prairie Gold Dry Riesling!
17. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
I made the 90-minute trip from New Orleans and spent five laid-back days at the cute Seahorse Studio, wandering oak-shaded streets, admiring Horn Island at Sunset at the Walter Anderson Museum, and strolling along tranquil Front Beach under the soft autumn sun. I noticed some smaller studios and cafés closed earlier, but nothing was fully shut.
Location: Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast, Southeast|Vibe: laid-back coastal charm |Avg temp: 12°C to 21°C
My favorite highlights…
- Trying crispy fried pickles, zesty pico cabbage, and potent frozen margaritas at the oceanfront Bayou Restaurant & Tiki Bar.
18. Chiricahua National Monument
Visiting the remote Chiricahua National Monument this month made for a peaceful and unforgettable trip — the cooler temperatures were perfect for hiking, the skies were wonderfully clear, and the hoodoos glowed beautifully in the late-season desert light.
With hardly any crowds, I had the dramatic landscapes and migratory birds almost to myself. I flew into Tucson International Airport, drove three hours southeast, and spent three serene days at the welcoming DreamCatcher Inn. I hiked the spectacular Echo Canyon Loop clockwise, took in the views along Bonita Canyon Drive, and wandered among the otherworldly volcanic formations in total tranquility — though I was glad I’d downloaded offline maps as the cell signal was sketchy!
Location: southeastern Arizona, Southwest |Vibe: serene and awe-inspiring | Avg temp: 7°C to 21°C
My personal highlights…
-
The Echo Canyon Loop – I marveled at towering rhyolite pinnacles and narrow, echoing passageways shaped by ancient lava flows — the rocks looked almost melted, and the faint scent of juniper hung in the air!
19. Rockport Harbor, Texas
My trip to picturesque Rockport this month was idyllic — mild, breezy weather, no summer crowds, and a relaxed small-town coastal vibe I couldn’t get enough of. Prices were wonderfully affordable, the arrival of migratory birds made it ideal for birdwatching and I also caught the tail end of the Rockport Film Festival, which showcased inspiring indie films.
After landing at Corpus Christi International (CRP), I took the easy 45-minute drive and settled into the quaint Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay. I spotted croaking herons and squawking egrets at Goose Island State Park, toured the elegant Victorian Fulton Mansion (the ornate first floor music parlor was a highlight!), and explored the impressive Rockport Gallery — though I did notice that some restaurants and attractions had shorter hours this month.
Location: Texas Gulf Coast, South-Central USA |Vibe: laid-back coastal charm | Avg temp: 14°C to 24°C
My highlights…
- Visiting the zen-like Integrated Sculpture Garden, fragrant with earthy Texas sage and dotted with late-season greenery, which the guides told me cleverly doubled as a stormwater retention system at the Rockport Center for the Arts!
Author’s Travel Note:
I’ve spent 12+ years traveling across the US in every season, staying in the most interesting hotels I can find and seeking out the kinds of soulful, memorable experiences that don’t always show up in guidebooks. All of the places and stays mentioned here were personally visited and self-funded, so everything shared comes from direct, first-hand experience!
Wow what a great collection of places and I especially love your photos of the gorgeous Adirondack Mountains! I think now I really want to visit!