After several years of living in the USA and dedicating every October to exploring its different corners, I’ve finally compiled my go-to list. While New England is the classic choice, my travels have taken me from the moody, ghost-filled Appalachian trails to the golden desert landscapes of the Southwest. Here are my favorites…
1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
I absolutely adored visiting this charming 19th-century town in October when the surrounding Appalachian Mountains glowed with rich reds and golden hues, the cool air carried a gentle chill, and the cobblestoned streets felt beautifully moody and romantic.
The spooky seasonal ghost tours and whimsical Halloween festivities gave the whole destination an irresistible autumn aura. I drove 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., spent five days leaf-peeping along the switchback-filled Maryland Heights Trail and the bucket-list-worthy Appalachian Trail (starting at its famous midpoint).
I also gazed in awe at the far-reaching views from Jefferson Rock, and explored the fascinating Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was was filled with old railway tracks and pretty riverside trails.
Warning: parking is tricky especially on autumn weekends so head straight for the National Park Service shuttle lot at the visitor center instead of relying on street parking.
Location: Eastern USA | Vibe: romantic old-world | Avg temp: 50°F to 65°F
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 from the friendly staff that it once served as a tavern and stagecoach stop!
2. Asheville, North Carolina
October was a gorgeous time to visit this artsy mountain city, the Blue Ridge Mountains were drenched in brilliant autumn color and the fresh mountain air had the perfect seasonal chill (September to early November stays comfortably mild). The Blue Ridge Parkway looked especially spectacular in these conditions, with dazzling red and gold leaves lighting up the surrounding hiking trails.
The city was full of autumn warmth and I even got to join in the quirky fun at Asheville Oktoberfest where I sipped on locally brewed pumpkin ale as the scent of cinnamon pretzels and woodsmoke wafted through the air!
I flew into Asheville Regional Airport and enjoyed a fabulous week at the chic, Insta-worthy 4-star Blind Tiger Hotel, driving to see the peak fall foliage along Parkway, admiring the ornate and elaborate fall displays at the grand Biltmore Estate, hiking through the waterfall-dotted Pisgah National Forest, and then warming up with a Brown Butter Sage coffee at the cute little BattleCat Coffee Bar.
Location: Eastern USA | Vibe: creative and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 44°F to 68°F
My highlights…
- Dining on farm-to-table cuisine at the creative Chestnut restaurant – I loved the earthy aroma and unique, 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 (awesome digital nomad perks!). The entire region had turned into a truly incredible patchwork of gold, crimson, and orange, the air felt fresh and invigorating and just right for long hikes, apple-picking, and ultra-cozy nights in cute historic inns, and every long, winding road here looked like it belonged on a postcard (seriously)!
I also loved stumbling across small towns filled with festive autumn energy — the family-friendly Topsfield Fair with its Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off was a huge highlight, as was the lively Vermont’s Mount Snow Oktoberfest with its oompah bands and clinking steins, while the theatrical Salem’s Haunted Happenings, with its spooky parades and haunted houses, definitely kept me on edge!
I flew into Boston Logan, drove two hours to start in Newport, Rhode Island, cruised the mountain-flanked Kancamagus Highway and took in all the jaw-dropping foliage views (of course!), explored the pretty towns of Litchfield and Kent, visited the very Instagrammable Pickin’ Patch in Avon in Connecticut, and capped it all off with a romantic ride on the nostalgic Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train.
Location: northeast | Vibe: quaint historic, and scenic| Avg temp: 45°F to 68°F
My personal highlights…
- Staying in the historic Wilder House – I loved the dark walnut Airline Radio, intimate games room, crackling wrought-iron fireplaces, and waking to the smell of gingerbread pancakes each morning!
4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Monument Valley left a huge impression on me during my visit this month — the cooler temperatures and ultra-clear skies created the ideal backdrop for long, photogenic drives and interesting guided Navajo tours through the soaring red rock formations.
The golden desert light felt almost cinematic, and with fewer crowds than summer, I could fully appreciate the park’s dreamlike beauty! I flew into Arizona via Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, picked up a rental car for a scenic 3.5-hour drive north through the Navajo Nation, and spent four unforgettable days at the charming Goulding’s Lodge.
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 sunset from John Ford Point which turned out to be a seriously spectacular riot of orange and pinks!
Warning: I found cell service was virtually non-existent once I left the main lodge area.
Location: southwest | Vibe: majestic and cinematic, | Avg temp: 60°F to 70°F
My highlights…
- Dining on a Blue Corn Mush brunch topped with smoky juniper ash while admiring the breathtaking desert vistas of Monument Valley from the iconic View Restaurant!
5. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago was made for a mid-fall break — the colorful parks looked stunning, the air felt cool and fresh, and the whole city had an extra-cozy energy. I researched that events on during this month ranged from the glamorous Chicago International Film Festival to the enchanting Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights which featured jack-o’-lantern displays and very photogenic tunnel lights!
I flew into Midway International Airport and spent a stylish week at the beautiful 4-star Pendry Hotel. I slowly sipped on craft brews at the hip Marz Community Brewing, gorged on 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 got to hop on an interesting Architecture Cruise along the Chicago River and joined a quirky Windy City Ghost tour — which turned out to be the perfect spooky-season finale!
Location: north-central | Vibe: vibrant and urban | Avg temp: 55°F to 64°F
My favorite highlights…
- Slowing savoring 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 here — the softly rounded hills and dense hardwood forests had turned into an eye-catching golden sea of color, and the invigorating, pine-scented air made it an idyllic season for hiking adventures and long, leaf-peeping drives.
I flew into Pittsburgh, drove 2.5 hours, and spent three snug days at the rustic Salmon Creek Cabin which was located right in the park. I hiked the wonderful Minister Creek Trail photographing all the fall foliage, took in the incredibly photogenic views from Rimrock and Jakes Rocks Overlooks, and couldn’t stop gazing at the autumn colors mirrored in the tranquil Allegheny Reservoir along the Longhouse Scenic Byway.
Location: northeast | Vibe: serene, rustic, and nature-filled | Avg temp: 50°F to 59°F
My personal highlights…
- Stopping by the intimate Keystone Café for a nutty gluten-free peanut butter pie and a dry but fruity Blueberry Kolsch from the rustic Lost in The Wilds Brewing!
7. Gulf Shores, Alabama
I loved visiting this laid-back Gulf Coast beach town early on in this month — the summer crowds were gone, but it was still warm enough to swim in the sparkling, turquoise water, laze around on Orange Beach’s sugar-white sands, and try out water sports but without all the queues!
The whole place felt more relaxed and local (which I absolutely loved!), and I managed to score great off-season deals on accommodation. I even joined in Oktoberfest 5K fun run (some of the costumes were really awesome) and locals raved about the National Shrimp Festival on in October too.
I landed at Mobile Regional Airport, took a 1.5 hour drive, and spent a very blissful week at the chic 4-star Lodge at Gulf State Park. I split my days between the popular Gulf Shores Public Beach and the quieter West Beach, I spotted playful dolphins on a fantastic boat tour from Orange Beach, and explored as much as I could of the dune-filled Gulf State Park.
Warning: I had to watch for the odd jellyfish during this month, so it’s best to check local beach reports before you dive in!
Location: southeast | Vibe: fun and family-friendly | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F
My favorite highlights…
- Joining the sociable Gulf Shores Beach Yoga, I flowed through many vinyasa poses with warm sand under my toes and light blue waves softly crashing beside me!
8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
I was treated to a spectacular alpine wilderness on my early October break — the mountainsides actually glowed with golden aspens, the chilly air carried the sound of bugling elk during rutting season, and the summer crowds had (thankfully!) long gone. I found I could still drive the famous Trail Ridge Road before the snow arrived and closed it, and the iconic Rocky Mountain views felt extra magical under the autumn light.
I flew into Denver International Airport, road-tripped to Estes Park, and couldn’t get enough of the cozy-chic mountain charm of Taharaa Mountain Lodge where I based myself for five nights.
I cruised along the spectacular Trail Ridge Road, admired Insta-worthy alpine panoramas, explored golden aspen-lined trails, and just loved how peaceful the park felt during this time of year!
Location: western USA| Vibe: peaceful and awe-inspiring | Avg temp: 39°F to 55°F
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 — I found the scorching summer heat had eased but the patios were buzzing with locals, and the city felt alive with awesome music and fall festivities including the lively Austoberfest with its artisan craft beer, live music, and buzzy crowds.
I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and enjoyed four exciting days soaking up as much of Austin’s creative energy as I could. I wandered down historic 6th Street, tasted small-batch brews at hip neighborhood breweries, hiked among golden leaves in the tree-lined McKinney Falls State Park, checked out the cute little shops along trendy South Congress Avenue and gorged on spicy vegan chorizos and peach bourbon smash at the funky Tex-Mex Eldorado Cafe.
Location: south-central | Vibe: quirky and energetic | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the trendy 4-star LINE Hotel. It was awesome ending my stay at the ultra-hip rooftop bar P6, sipping on a Spicy Watermelon Margarita while nibbling on warm, aromatic za’atar bread and soaking up the stylish atmosphere!
10. Arches National Park, Utah
This red-rock wonderland looked especially breathtaking during this month — the blistering summer heat had mellowed into perfect hiking weather, the huge formations glowed under soft golden light, and the trails felt blissfully quieter than in peak season.
After landing at Canyonlands Regional Airport, I made the short drive to Moab and checked into the stylish WorldMark Resort for a nature-filled four-day adventure.
I hiked to otherworldly Delicate Arch just in time for a fiery (and very Insta-worthy!) sunset, wandered among the surreal spires of Devil’s Garden, leisurely 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!
Warning: I fond the sun was still surprisingly intense here even in October so carry more water than you think you need!
Location: western USA | Vibe: otherworldy desert | Avg temp: 59°F to 75°F
My favorite highlights…
- Joining a free ranger-led hike and learning from our knowledgeable guide how rain-fed ephemeral pools become shimmering lifelines for the desert plants, animals, and insects!
11. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
This iconic 469-mile drive looked absolutely spectacular during this month — the mountains blazed with autumn color, the air felt fresh and cool, and every hiking trail and overlook was unbelievably photogenic. Wildlife was easier to spot too, and I caught glimpses of deer, wild turkeys, and even a black bear foraging by the roadside!
After touching down into Asheville Regional Airport, hit the road in a rental car, and spent my trip based at the quirky-chic 4-star Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg near the Great Smoky Mountains.
I chased waterfalls at the wildly photogenic Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock, soaked up extraordinary views from the rugged peaks of Grandfather Mountain and the engineering marvel of the Linn Cove Viaduct, stopped at the breathtaking Richland Balsam Overlook — the highest point on the drive — and spent cozy fireside evenings in the charming mountain towns of Asheville, Banner Elk, and Black Mountain.
Location: southeast | Vibe: peaceful, nostalgic mountain-road-trip | Avg temp: 50°F to 66°F
My favorite highlights…
- Stopping at the picturesque Linville Falls Winery right off the Parkway and sampling their mountain-grown wines, with their dry, barrel-aged Cabernet Sauvignon stealing the show for me!
12. Flagstaff, Arizona
I loved stopping in this high-elevation mountain city during my early 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 an atmospheric fall aura too, I personally got to join popular Oktoberfest which featured polka bands and fun stein-holding contests and I saw posters for an October Pumpkin Walk, and Celebraciones de la Gente too.
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: southwest | Vibe: artsy and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 31°F to 63°F
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 the locals couldn’t get enough of!
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 wonderfully fresh air, and the snow-dusted Teton Range made the scenery feel almost too perfect to be real.
The cooler temperatures were ideal for hiking, and I loved spotting wildlife, from moose in the Snake River Valley to bears foraging before their hibernation.
I flew into Jackson Hole Airport (right inside the park!) and spent four gorgeous days at the hugely impressive 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: Western USA | Vibe: majestic, rugged, and pristine | Avg temp: 45°F to 55°F
My favorite highlights…
- Photographing ‘Golden Hour ‘(which was a friendly local’s tip!) which was when the warm light set the fall leaves aglow in all shades of reds and golds!
14. Maui, Hawaii
This lush Hawaiian island made a seriously 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.
It was great that my trip coincided with the world-class Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (the truffle mushroom crostini’s were stand-outs!) and the whimsical Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch. The popular Maui County Fair with its rides and food stalls had also taken place at the beginning of the month.
After landing at Kahului Airport I spent 10 very laid-back days dozing on golden sand, swimming in calm tropical waters, and dining on fresh poke by Napili Bay. I also drove the quieter Road to Hana to chase waterfalls and dip my toes in black sand beaches, tackled the sacred trails of the volcanic Haleakalā National Park.
Warning: The ‘Road to Hana’ is not for the faint of heart, the locals drive it very fast, and the turns are blind and very tight!
Location: Central Pacific | Vibe: Tropical and dreamy| Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F
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
Visiting this scenic peninsula in fall felt like stepping into an autumn movie set, with glowing foliage, winding lakeshore roads, cool, refreshing air and a cozy vibe everywhere I went!
I loved joining in the awesome seasonal events, especially the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival which had parades, stalls and music and the Sister Bay Fall Festival with its fun parade and cute little craft stalls.
I flew into Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport, headed an hour northeast, and spent a wonderful ten days at the super-charming Peninsula Park-View Resort. I cruised Highway 42 Scenic Byway and saw seriously postcard-pretty foliage, browsed the cute shops in quaint Egg Harbor (loved KEEPER for its gingham dune pants!), explored the waterfront town of historic Fish Creek, and wandered the easy-on-the-eye shoreline of peaceful Baileys Harbor.
Location: Midwest | Vibe: quaint and laid-back | Avg temp: 50°F to 61°F
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 just the right time to take a trip to Big Sur — the coastal weather was clear and mild, the crazy busy summer crowds had disappeared, and the ocean views along Highway 1 looked especially beautiful in the soft fall light. I even managed to spot 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 Big Sur Lodge which made the area feel wonderfully lively and welcoming!
After just a 45 minutes drive down Highway 1 from Monterey I opted for four very peaceful nights at the rustic Big Sur Campground and Cabins. I hiked among the spicy fragrance of redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, crossed the legendary Bixby Creek Bridge, and took in the Insta-worthy beauty of McWay Falls!
Warning: fog can roll in off the Pacific in an instant, cutting visibility to near zero on Highway 1 so keep your headlights on and drive slowly!
Location: West Coast | Vibe: Dramatic, rugged, and tranquil | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F
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
Visiting this gorgeous rolling region in mid-fall felt like stepping into an autumn postcard, with colorful hills, cool, fresh breezes, and quaint towns hosting cheerful 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 which had craft stalls and folk music, and the very wholesome Hawthorne Valley Farm Fall Festival with local food galore (loved the wood-fired butternut squash flatbreads!) which made the whole place feel wonderfully festive!
It was just three hours from Boston and then I based myself here for an idyllic week. I cruised the twisty Mohawk Trail and saw truly breathtaking foliage views, went apple-picking and at photogenic Bartlett’s Orchard, hiked to the summit of atmospheric Mount Greylock, warmed up with farm-to-table meals at Prairie Whale and explored the picturesque towns of Lenox and Great Barrington!
Warning: I found some of the older, historic inns in this area don’t have elevators. If you have heavy luggage, call ahead and ask for a ground-floor room.
Location: Northeast | Vibe: elegant, artsy countryside | Avg temp: 55°F to 64°F
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 decided to skip the scorching summer heat and visited Las Vegas towards the end of this month instead. I found the heat had cooled to a comfortable warmth, so it was just right perfect for exploring the Strip, dining on trendy rooftop terraces, and catching awesome outdoor concerts.
The crowds were lighter, hotel rates were better and there were just so many events on! After researching I found that both the stein-filled Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest the famous Las Vegas Pride Festival took place in October.
Although I personally relished in all the Halloween celebrations, I wandered the LINQ Promenade decked out in ghoulish decorations, danced the night away at the completely over-the-top Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, and even joined a spooky ghost tour of the abandoned mining town of Goodsprings – it honestly felt like something straight out of Scooby-Doo!
Location: southwest | Vibe: bold, high energy | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F
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 strawberry flavored pink icing and even cherry lollipops!
Each location you’ve mentioned seems to have its unique charm and beauty.