20 Amazing Places to Visit in October in the USA

After a few years of living in the USA and exploring it each fall, I’ve found October to be an incredible month to travel. While New England is a classic, I’ve discovered plenty of other places that shine – from golden mountain towns to quirky small cities….

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

I adored visiting this charming 19th-century town in October when the surrounding Appalachian Mountains were ablaze with fiery reds and golds, the air was cool and crisp, and the cobblestone streets felt wonderfully atmospheric. Seasonal ghost tours gave the whole place a delightfully spooky vibe, and the kilt-clad Scottish-style Highland Games and all the fun Halloween events made it feel like the perfect autumn getaway.

I drove 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., spent a long weekend leaf-peeping along the switchback-filled Maryland Heights Trail and the bucket-list-worthy Appalachian Trail (starting at its famous midpoint), soaked up the sweeping views from Jefferson Rock, and explored the fascinating Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

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

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the historic 4-star Light Horse Inn, I loved its Revolutionary-era pride, sipping their tart locally made Apple Brandy Sour, and learning it once served as a tavern and stagecoach stop!

2. Asheville, North Carolina

October was the perfect time to visit this artsy mountain city — the Blue Ridge Mountains were alight with fall color, the air was crisp (September to early November stays comfortably mild) and perfect for a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the hiking trails wrapped me in a dazzling canopy of fiery red and gold. The city buzzed with cozy autumn charm and seasonal events, and I loved joining in the Asheville Oktoberfest.

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport and spent a week at the Insta-worthy 4-star Blind Tiger Hotel, driving to see peak foliage along the flame-leafed Parkway, admiring the elaborate seasonal displays at the ornate Biltmore Estate, hiking the colorful trails of waterfall-dotted Pisgah National Forest, and then warming up with a pumpkin-spiced latte at the quirky BattleCat Coffee Bar.

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

My highlights…

• Dining on farm-to-table cuisine at the creative Chestnut restaurant, I loved the earthy aroma and nutty flavor of the Two Brooks Farm Wild Rice and Mushroom Pirloo!

3. New England

New England completely won me over when I spent October here for a whole month (digital nomad perks!). The entire region had turned into a blazing patchwork of gold, crimson, and orange, the air was crisp and perfect for long hikes, apple picking, and cozy nights in historic inns, and every winding road looked like it belonged on a postcard (seriously)!

I loved stumbling into small towns buzzing with seasonal charm — the family-friendly Topsfield Fair with its Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off was a highlight, as was the lively Vermont’s Mount Snow Oktoberfest and the fun Salem’s Haunted Happenings with its spooky parades and haunted houses.

I flew into Boston Logan, drove two hours to start in Newport, Rhode Island, cruised the mountain-flanked Kancamagus Highway and saw jaw-dropping foliage views, explored the storybook towns of Litchfield and Kent, visited the very Instagrammable Pickin’ Patch in Avon, Connecticut, and capped it all off with a romantic ride on the nostalgic Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train.

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

My personal highlights…

• Staying in the historic Wilder House, I loved the dark walnut Airline Radio, cozy games room, roaring wrought-iron fireplaces, and waking to the smell of gingerbread pancakes each morning!

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

Monument Valley completely blew me away on my visit during this month — the cooler temperatures and crystal-clear skies made it the perfect time for scenic drives and guided Navajo tours through the towering red rock formations. The golden desert light felt almost cinematic, and with fewer crowds than summer, I could really soak up the park’s surreal, otherworldly beauty.

I flew into Arizona, drove two hours, and spent three unforgettable days at the funky Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa. I joined a Navajo-led tour to see the iconic Mittens and Totem Pole up close, drove the 17-mile Valley Drive, hiked the popular Wildcat Trail and watched the sun set in a riot of orange and pinks from John Ford Point!

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

My highlights…

• Dining on a Blue Corn Mush brunch topped with smoky juniper ash while gazing at panoramic views of Monument Valley from the iconic View Restaurant!

5. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago made an awesome mid-fall city break — the city’s parks and tree-lined streets were filled with peak fall color, the air was mild and crisp, and the whole place felt extra cozy. I loved how the city buzzed with seasonal energy, from the interesting Open House Chicago event to the glamorous Chicago International Film Festival and the enchanting Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights.

I flew into Midway International Airport and spent four stylish days at the beautiful 4-star Pendry Hotel. I sipped craft brews at the hip Marz Community Brewing, devoured a slice of Pumpkin Chai Spice Pie from the local favorite Justice of the Pies, and wandered through the fiery foliage of art-filled Millennium Park. I also hopped on an insightful Architecture Cruise along the Chicago River and braved a fun Windy City Ghost tour — which turned out to be the perfect spooky-season finale!

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

My favorite highlights…

• Sipping a floral Lychee and Elderflower Martini as the city glittered below from The Rooftop at the chic Nobu Hotel!

6. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest completely wowed me during my fall break — the rolling hills and dense hardwood forests had turned into a golden sea of color, and the crisp, cool pine-scented air was perfect for hiking and scenic drives. I loved seeing the fiery leaves mirrored in the still waters of the Allegheny Reservoir along the Longhouse Scenic Byway — it felt like autumn magic everywhere I looked! 

I flew into Pittsburgh, drove 2.5 hours, and spent three cozy days at the rustic Salmon Creek Cabin right in the park. I hiked the picturesque – Minister Creek Trail under a canopy of wonderful foliage, soaked up Insta-worthy views from the breathtaking Rimrock and Jakes Rocks Overlooks, and took slow, scenic drives just to savor the fall colors.

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

My personal highlights…

• Stopping by the cozy Keystone Café for a nutty gluten-free peanut butter pie and a creamy, malty ‘Keystone Fog’ from Bearded Brewing!

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

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

My favorite highlights…

• Joining the sociable Gulf Shores Beach Yoga, I flowed through vinyasa poses with warm sand under my toes and waves crashing beside me!

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

I was treated to a spectacular alpine wilderness on my fall break — the mountainsides were glowing with golden aspens, the chilly air carried the sound of bugling elk during rutting season, and the summer crowds had melted away. I could still drive the famous Trail Ridge Road before snow closed it, and the iconic Rocky Mountain views felt extra magical under the autumn light.

I flew into Denver International Airport, drove two hours to the main entrance near Estes Park, and spent four beautiful days at the rustic-chic Taharaa Mountain Lodge. I wound my way along the epic Trail Ridge Road and gazed at jaw-dropping panoramas, hiked through shimmering aspen groves on the tranquil Bear Lake Loop and to misty Ouzel Falls, and soaked up the peaceful fall scenery without the summer rush.

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

My highlights…

• Catching sight of the eerie, grand Stanley Hotel from the tramway—Stephen King’s inspiration for The Shining—was a goosebump moment me (being a film fan)!

9. Austin, Texas

This popular Texan city in October was an absolute vibe — the scorching summer heat had eased, patios were buzzing with diners, and the city felt alive with music and fall festivities. I loved joining the lively Austoberfest and the colorful Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, which gave the trip a true Austin twist.

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and spent four fun-filled days exploring. I strolled down historic 6th Street, sampled flights at hip craft breweries, hiked among golden leaves in the tree-lined McKinney Falls State Park, browsed quirky shops along trendy South Congress Avenue and gorged on spicy vegan chorizos and peach bourbon smash at the funky Tex-Mex Eldorado Cafe.

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

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the trendy 4-star LINE Hotel – it was awesome to end my stay with a Spicy Watermelon Margarita accompanied with aromatic za’atar bread on the ultra-hip rooftop bar P6!

10. Arches National Park, Utah

This month was the perfect time to explore this red-rock wonderland — the blistering summer heat had mellowed into perfect hiking weather, the formations glowed under soft golden light, and the trails felt blissfully quieter than in peak season.

I flew into Canyonlands Regional Airport, drove 25 minutes to Moab, and spent three unforgettable days at the sleek WorldMark Resort. I hiked to otherworldly Delicate Arch just in time for a fiery sunset, wandered among the spires of surreal Devil’s Garden, cruised the winding Scenic Park Road, and stargazed under clear, pitch-black skies — it was actually one of the most magical night skies I’d ever seen! 

• Location: southeastern Utah, in the western United States
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• Vibe: Creative, energetic, and laid-back
• Average temperature – 15°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Joining a free ranger-led hike and learning from our knowledgeable guide how rain-fed ephemeral pools become shimmering lifelines for desert plants, animals, and insects!

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

This 469-mile scenic drive was absolutely magical during this month — the winding mountain road was shimmering with fiery reds, oranges, and golds, the air was cool, and every overlook and hiking trail felt like stepping into a postcard-perfect fall scene. Wildlife was easier to spot too, and I caught glimpses of deer, wild turkeys, and even a black bear foraging by the roadside!

I flew into Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport, drove 3.5 hours, and based myself for a week at the funky 4-star Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg. I chased waterfalls at the very photogenic Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock, admired stunning views from the dramatic Grandfather Mountain and the ingenious Linn Cove Viaduct, stopped at the breathtaking Richland Balsam Overlook (the highest point on the drive), and spent cozy evenings in the charming mountain towns of Asheville, Banner Elk, and Black Mountain.

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

My favorite highlights…

• Stopping at the picturesque Ecco Adesso vineyard and sampling their Shenandoah Valley wines, with the spicy, pepper-kissed Cabernet Franc stealing the show for me!

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

I loved stopping in this high-elevation mountain city during my fall road trip — the golden aspens lining Snowbowl Road were glowing, the air was chilly and cool, and with fewer crowds it felt wonderfully peaceful. The city had a cozy fall vibe too, with fun events such as the fun Oktoberfest, the family-friendly Pumpkin Walk, and the colorful Celebraciones de la Gente celebrating Mexican culture all taking place this month.

I spent three days at the cool 4-star Little America Hotel, took a scenic leaf-peeping drive up the panoramic Snowbowl Road, explored the otherworldly landscapes at the fascinating Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and spent evenings downtown sipping craft beer, listening to live music, and browsing quirky indie shops.

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

My personal highlights…

• Stopping at the Route 66-inspired Mother Road Brewing Company, I feasted on soft, salt encrusted pretzels and tried their beloved Tower Station Roadside Grove, a crisp, hoppy brew that locals swear by!

13. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

This stunning wilderness made the perfect October getaway for me — the valleys glowed with golden aspens and cottonwoods, elk bugles echoed through the crisp air, and the snow-dusted Teton Range made the whole scene look like a postcard. The cooler temperatures were ideal for hiking, and I loved spotting wildlife, from moose in the Snake River Valley to bears foraging before hibernation.

I flew into Jackson Hole Airport (right inside the park!) and spent four gorgeous days at the Insta-worthy 4-star Spring Creek Ranch. I hiked the colorful Taggart Lake and Jenny Lake trails, drove the scenic Teton Park Road and was treated to peak foliage views, and watched the snow-kissed peaks reflected in wildlife-rich Oxbow Bend before photographing the iconic barns at rustic Mormon Row.

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

My favorite highlights…

• Photographing Golden Hour (which was a local’s tip!), when the warm light set the fall leaves aglow in fiery reds and golds!

14. Maui, Hawaii

This lush Hawaiian island made a dreamy fall vacation — the weather was warm and sunny but less humid, the crowds had thinned, hotel rates dropped, and I could enjoy peaceful beaches, snorkeling, and scenic drives in a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. I loved joining the festive Maui County Fair, wandering the photogenic Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch, and sampling gourmet bites at the world-classHawaii Food and Wine Festival.

I flew into Kahului Airport and spent 10 blissful days mostly swimming and snorkeling in the calm, turquoise waters of tropical Napili Bay. I also drove the quieter Road to Hana to chase waterfalls and stroll black sand beaches, hiked the cool trails of the volcanic community-focused Haleakalā National Park, and feasted on fresh local food at the Maui County Fair.

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

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the dreamy Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux, I loved its romantic boutique vibe, sunrise yoga, sleek spa, and mixing my own tangy-sweet Lilikoi Mai Tai in their fun mixology class!

15. Door County, Wisconsin

I was completely charmed by this picturesque peninsula during this month — the trees blazed with fall color, the air was crisp, and the scenic lakeshore drives and peaceful parks made it feel like the perfect autumn escape. I loved joining in the cozy seasonal events, especially the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Sister Bay Fall Festival with its lively parade, craft stalls, and local treats.

I flew into Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport, drove an hour northeast, and spent a wonderful week at the super-charming Peninsula Park-View Resort. I cruised Highway 42 Scenic Byway and saw postcard-worthy foliage, browsed the cute shops in quaint Egg Harbor, explored the waterfront town of historic Fish Creek, and wandered the attractive shoreline of peaceful Baileys Harbor.

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

My personal highlights…

• Sampling craft beer at the rustic-chic Peach Barn Farmhouse and Brewery, I loved the bright, fruity kick of their Silo Sisters Peach Sour!

16. Big Sur, California

I discovered first hand that October was the perfect time to visit Big Sur — the coastal weather was clear and mild, the summer crowds had disappeared, and the ocean views along Highway 1 looked especially dreamy in the soft fall light. I even spotted migrating humpback whales, which made the trip feel extra special! I loved that this month also brought the community-focused Big Sur River Run, spooky Halloween celebrations, and live music at the cozy Big Sur Lodge giving the area a laid-back, festive vibe.

I drove 45 minutes down Highway 1 from Monterey and spent three peaceful days at the rustic Big Sur Campground and Cabins. I hiked the redwood-scented trails of the sprawling Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, crossed the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, watched for gray whales along the cliffs, and soaked up the quiet beauty of the magical McWay Falls.

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

My highlights…

• Driving over the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, then stopping at Hurricane Point a mile away, where the salty wind and breathtaking ocean backdrop made for the perfect unobstructed bridge shot!

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

This scenic, hilly region completely charmed me on my mid-fall short break — the rolling hills were ablaze with brilliant fall colors, the air was crisp, and the charming towns were alive with cozy harvest festivals. I loved that the summer crowds had gone, rates were lower, and I could soak up the beauty with fewer people around. Highlights for me were the artisanal Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival and the wholesome Hawthorne Valley Farm Fall Festival, which made the whole place feel wonderfully festive.

I drove three hours from Boston and spent an idyllic long weekend here. I cruised the twisty Mohawk Trail and saw jaw-dropping foliage views, went apple picking and at photogenic Bartlett’s Orchard, hiked to the summit of atmospheric Mount Greylock and was treated to beautiful panoramas, and warmed up with farm-to-table meals and cozy evenings in the charming towns of Lenox and Great Barrington.

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

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous historic 4-star Williams Inn, I loved starting my day with a fluffy kale and feta omelet in their gourmet farm-to-table restaurant!

18. Las Vegas

I skipped the scorching summer heat and visited this desert city during this month instead — the heat had cooled to a comfortable warmth, perfect for strolling the Strip, dining on rooftop terraces, and catching outdoor concerts. The crowds were lighter, hotel rates were better, and I loved how the city came alive with seasonal fun, from the lively Las Vegas Pride Festival to the fun Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest.

Halloween was a real highlight in Las Vegas — I wandered the LINQ Promenade decked out in ghoulish decorations, danced the night away at the over-the-top Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, and even joined a fun ghost tour of the abandoned mining town of Goodsprings, which felt straight out of Scooby-Doo!

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

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the chic 4-star MGM Grand, I feasted at the endless Grand Buffet breakfast and couldn’t resist the Sugar Rush Pancakes dripping with pink icing and tangy cherry lollipops!

19. Charleston, South Carolina

I loved visiting this historic coastal city in October — the weather was warm but less humid, the summer crowds had thinned, and the golden fall light made the oak-shaded streets and pastel houses glow. It was the perfect time for outdoor dining on charming piazzas and slow strolls through the historic neighborhoods. I also caught lively seasonal events like the joyful MOJA Arts Festival and the fascinating Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens, which made the trip feel extra special.

I flew into Charleston International Airport and spent a dreamy mini-break exploring. I wandered the historic French Quarter, admired the colorful houses of quaint Rainbow Row, strolled along the romantic Waterfront Park, and visited the thought-provoking Boone Hall Plantation — all without the sticky summer heat (although I had to admit there were a few mosquitoes around still, so I was glad I bought spray)!

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

My highlights…

• Staying at the stunning 4-star boutique Harbourview Inn, I loved the thoughtful touches — especially the nightly milk and brown Butter Pecan cookies with plant-based milk options!

20. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This scenic natural area was absolutely gorgeous during this fall month — the forested trails and river valleys glowed with fall color, the crisp air was perfect for hiking and biking, and the scenic train rides felt like stepping into a nostalgic autumn postcard. I loved the atmospheric fall vibe, mild temperatures, and seasonal events like the rustic Szalay’s Sweet Corn & Farmers Market and the charming Hale Farm & Village Harvest Festival.

I drove 30 minutes from Cleveland and spent three photogenic days in a unique glamping tent. I hiked to the majestic Brandywine Falls, soaked up fiery foliage views from the impressive Ledges Overlook and along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, and capped it all off with a ride on the family-friendly Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.

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

My personal highlights…

• Strolling through the Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market – I couldn’t resist a spoonful of locally produced Silver Bee Honey — it was silky, golden, and tasted like fragrant wildflowers!