19 Amazing Places to Visit in November in the USA (my gems!)

1. 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.

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!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 236 W Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
• Location: Southwest Colorado, western region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: arty, upscale alpine town 
• Average temperatures – minus 6 to 4°C

My favorite highlights…

• Watching Eric Gales live at Sheridan Opera House, I loved the impressive historic 1903 venue and the Venetian hand-painted stage curtain! 

2. 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!

From the incredible window dressings in the shops on Fifth Avenue to the gorgeous festive decorations, New York City 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. 

I flew into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and used my digital nomad status to stay for a whole month. I went staking 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 Empire State Building, all while enjoying fewer crowds and crisp autumn weather.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10011
• Location: Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic region
• Map Location
• Vibe: Dynamic, diverse, and fast-paced
• Average temperature – 4°C – 13°C

My personal highlights…

• Discovering the enchanting Winter Highlights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. I loved drinking hot spiced pear cider and the Instagram-worthy “Winter Cathedral” (a stunning tunnel of lights).

3. 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!

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. 

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! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 4-484 Kuhio Highway Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746.
• Location: Northernmost island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Central Pacific region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Lush, laid-back tropical paradise
• Average temperature – 21°C – 27°C

My personal highlights…

• Dining on large Baja Fish Tacos with a Black Bean & Jalapeño dip while gazing at gorgeous ocean views on Taco Tuesday at Duke’s Kauai.

4. 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.

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. 

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. 

• North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
• Location: Southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: elegant Southern charm 
• Average temperature – 8°C- 20°C

My personal highlights…

• Sipping on a Blush Martini topped with an edible flower and accompanied with margherita flatbreads at The Rooftop at the Vendue. 

5. 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.

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.

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 Chamionship.

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! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 106240 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, +1 305-712-6596
• Location: Southern tip of Florida, stretching into the southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: tropical and quirky island escape
• Average temperature – 21°C – 27°C

My favorite highlights…

• Discovering the nightlife and bars along Duval Street on Key West. I especially loved the casual vibe and the spicy watermelon margaritas at the locally famous Sloppy Joe’s Bar! 

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

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

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!

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! 

• Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Location: Northern Arizona, southwestern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: mountain-town cool
• Average temperature – 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

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. 

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.

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. 

I went for taking scenic leaf-peeping dives 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.

• Visitors Center Address – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Location: Southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Misty, tranquil wilderness
• Average temperature – 1°C- 14°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the 4-star Historic Rocky Waters Inn – I loved the boutique decor, the cozy romantic vibe and waking up to the zen-like sound of the flowing river on my balcony each morning! 

8. 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! 

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!

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. 

• Visitors’ Centre Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
• Location: Eastern California, southwestern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: otherworldly and extreme
• Average temperature – 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 told me they were caused by oxidized metals in the volcanic rock.

9. 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!

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.

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 and 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!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 4484 LA-1, Raceland, LA 70394
• Location: Southern Louisiana, southeastern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Mysterious and soulful
• Average temperature – 10°C – 21°C

My highlights…

• Going on a fun swamp tour with Cajun Country Swamp Tours and seeing alligators, roseate spoonbills, and the noisy great blue herons!

10. 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.

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

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! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Torrey, UT 84775
• Location: South-central Utah, western region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: remote and rugged
• Average temperature – minus 2°C to 12°C

My personal highlights…

• Camping overnight the scenic Fruita Campground – it was great to wake up to the imposing red rocks each morning and seeing the occasional mule deer wandering by!

11. 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.

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.

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.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
• Location: Southwestern Pennsylvania, northeastern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: grit-meets-innovation
• Average temperature – 7°C to 13°C

My highlights…

• Stopping by Dancing Gnome Brewery for a fun-filled night, delicious food, and mouth-watering brews – my favorites were the fruity Spy Dolphin and the potent Track Botanical beer!

12. 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, 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.

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. 

• Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Location: Southern Alabama on the Gulf Coast, southeastern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: relaxed beach town
• Average temperature – 9 – 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• I went on a dolphin-watching cruise with Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf, where I spotted playful dolphins and even got to feed the seagulls!

13. 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!

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

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.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 522 Romero St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
• Location: Central New Mexico, southwestern region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: quirky and artsy
• Average temperature – 13°C to 18°C

My highlights…

•  Staying at the 4-star ARRIVE Albuquerque – I loved the funky, Insta-worthy decor and the Victrola Bluetooth speaker in my room which looked like a vintage radio! 

14. 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!

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.

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!