20 Amazing Places to Visit in October in the USA

There is no question about it: Fall in the USA is iconic! Surprisingly, it isn’t just the foliage that makes it so. I think October is the perfect time for an American Adventure for several reasons, and New England doesn’t hold all the cards either! Here are my favorite gems to explore during this month…

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Nestled in the bend where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge, the historic town of Harper’s Ferry is old America at its finest! 

This month is filled with color as the trees begin to turn, and I discovered charming colonial streets, old-fashioned treats, and a rich history. I also recommend visiting the museums to learn about John Brown’s Raid in 1859, when abolitionists attempted to use the town’s armoury in a failed slave revolt.

Numerous trails took me to the nearby woodlands or up onto the Appalachian Trail, where I saw magnificent views over the quaint old town, the two converging rivers, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Often referred to as ‘almost heaven,’ when I visited, I could see why Harper’s Ferry’s appeal has survived the centuries. It has lots of charm and is steeped in fascinating history and fall foliage, which easily rivals Connecticut! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. 
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Enjoying a segway tour, a zipline and an aerial rope course at the Adventure Center.
• Hiking the easy Murphy-Chambers Farm loop, which took my past lots of history.
• Going on the fun and spooky Harper’s Ferry Ghost Tour.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

From September to early November, temperatures in Asheville are still reasonably warm, so this is a great time to explore the incredible fall foliage. I’m a huge fan of this scenic city, which has also been used in several films, including The Hunger Games and Dirty Dancing; I even saw where the famous lift scene is said to have taken place (Lake Lure)!

I suggest heading out into nature on the well-marked tracks and trails around the Pisgah National Forest or trying Whitewater rafting on the French Broad River. Less adventurous types can take a more refined stroll through the magnificent Biltmore Estate.

It also has strong roots in Appalachian Folk and Bluegrass, and it hosts many festivals and famous residencies at The Orange Peel, where bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and Band Of Horses once recorded.

I highly recommend taking the Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic route, which passes through the town.

• Visitors Center Address:  36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Average temperature – 20 degrees

My highlights…

• Trying delicious Farm-to-Table cuisine at the chic eatery Rhubarb.
• Admiring the wonderful fall colors and panoramic views at the Swinging Bridge located on Grandfather Mountain.
• Sip on a pumpkin-spiced latte and enjoy a freshly baked muffin at the cozy World Coffee Cafe.

3. New England

At the start of the Fall season (between the end of September and mid-October), the northern states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont hit their peak of autumn colors! 

I love Vermont for its super-cute white clapboard towns, elegant town squares, and historic Peacham, which has been declared Vermont’s most iconic village. I also suggest taking a day hike to Lake Willoughby or Quechee Gorge to watch the sunset at Lake Champlain before exploring Burlington.

I love New Hampshire’s scenic White Mountains and historic towns such as Amherst, which are filled with fine colonial architecture.

Maine has the largest stretch of Coastline in New England and is dotted with gorgeous little fishing villages such as Lubec and the picturesque Stonington.

I suggest you get off the beaten track and head for Northern Maine, where the abundance of nature in places such as Baxter State Park and Moosehead Lake Parks took my breath away! 

• Region: the area is a northeastern region of the US and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
• Average temperature – 15 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Taking a hot air balloon ride where I saw a unique view of the Connecticut fall foliage.
• Taking a ride on the Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train ride, which took me from New Hampshire to Plymouth and I also dined an onboard buffet lunch.
• Dining on a homemade breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor.

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

I love Monument Valley’s spectacularly strange landscapes, and I personally prefer to visit during the autumn months, when temperatures are pleasant and the summer crowds have gone.

It encompasses The Navajo Tribal Park and the incredibly iconic Colorado Plateau, characterized by its imposing sandstone Buttes rising in massive, eerie formations from the sandy ground.

I love that the Valley is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever watched a Western. Many of the early classics, including Stagecoach and Once Upon A Time in the West, were filmed here.

Most Buttes can be visited independently, but Hunts Mesa and Mystery Valley require a Navajo guide for safety.

• Visitors Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Hike around one of the most scenic locations in the valley, Wildcat Trail.
• Catch a vibrant and breathtaking sunrise over the naturally formed landscape.
• Take a driving tour around the area offering the most magnificent views.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Fall is the perfect time to visit this vibrant city as temperatures are usually mild during September/October, and it’s not the rainy season.

This month is typically the driest month of the year, and even in this bustling metropolis, the glory of fall colors can be seen in parks and green spaces and along the tree-lined avenues.

Try a local beer at one of the city’s many craft breweries, such as the ultra-hip Marz Community Brewing near McKinley Park. This brewery serves delicious ales alongside tavern-inspired delicacies.

Enjoy other seasonal treats like pumpkin pie in one of the city’s gourmet bakeries or pumpkin-spiced coffee in a cozy coffee shop. If you want to take a short trip out of the city, why not pick your pumpkins or apples?

You could take in a 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Southport Theater, enjoy some famous Chicago Blues, immerse yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene and discover the vast array of outdoor public art from icons like Dali and Calder.

• Visitors Center Address:  301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
• Average temperature – 17 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Hang out at one of the best spots in Chicago: the Riverwalk. It is filled with bars, shops, restaurants, and perfect places to people-watch.
• Taste the delicious flavors of the famous pumpkin pie from one of the local eateries.
• Visit a rooftop bar for breathtaking views overlooking this incredible city and to try the local beer.

6. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest is one of the most famous places in northwestern Pennsylvania to observe fall foliage. Leaves start to turn here in late September, and I love that the forest will transform into a sea of gold by mid-October.

I highly recommend strolling the breathtaking Kinzua Skywalk to see the views. Originally the Kinzua Viaduct, and at one time the highest bridge in the world, the Skywalk now offers visitors uninterrupted views of the valley below through a glass floor 301 feet high! 

I would also suggest hiking along the unique Hector Falls or climbing up the hewn stone steps to Rimrock Overlook, a sequence of viewpoints elevated 200ft above the forest offering views over Kinzua Bay and the Allegheny Reservoir.

• Visitors Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
• Average temperature – 15 degrees

My must-d0 highlights…

• Have some fun out on the water with many activities available, such as jet skiing and canoeing.
• For those who love biking, ride along the thrilling trails of Jake Rocks.
• Explore the free Zippo/Case Museum, which is filled with interesting facts from Hollywood and music.

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

The Fall offers much more manageable temperatures, warm enough for swimming in The Gulf of Mexico, bathing on the extensive white sands of Orange Beach, and taking advantage of the water sports and theme parks on offer, but not uncomfortably hot.

I would also recommend hiking or biking out on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails in the Gulf State Park and catching the changing colors under canopies of leaves. Here you will discover all kinds of Flora and Fauna including snakes, alligators, armadillos, bobcats, and eagles…to name just a few!

• Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Average temperature – 27 degrees

My must-d0 highlights…

• Discover the National Shrimp Festival and taste the delicious flavors of fresh seafood.
• Play a round of mini golf for a fun and relaxed activity on a hot day.
• Ride the famous Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views overlooking the area.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

The Rocky Mountain National Park Spans 415 miles of protected countryside and encompasses Trail Ridge Road, the highest stretch of unbroken paved road in America, which takes you up to The Continental Divide.

My favorite beauty spots here are Grand Lake, Emerald Lake, and the historic Keyhole Route up Longs Peak, the highest and most dangerous mountain in the park. In this month the foliage is colorful and the weather is temperate, so in my opinion it’s the perfect time to visit.

I would also highly recommend driving out to some of the nearby townships such as Estes Park, a quaint mountain town which offers plenty of shopping and dining and an aerial tramway with amazing views of the imposing Stanley Hotel (which inspired Stephen King’s classic The Shining!)

• Visitors Information – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Average temperature – 8 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Drive along the highest paved road in the US National Park for breathtaking views, Trail Ridge Road.
• Discover the perfect hiking trail suited to you and explore the beautiful landscapes.
• Adventure to the most popular waterfall across the area, Alberta Falls.

9. Austin, Texas

I love Austin for its cool hangouts, laid-back vibes, amazing live music scene, and the South by Southwest Music Festival.

Temperatures reaching the high 90s in the summer can prove unbearable for unaccustomed travelers! Instead, I suggest visiting this buzzing city this month when temperatures are much more tolerable, and the fall foliage bathes the streets and parks in color.

In the Fall, they also celebrate Oktoberfest, Dia De Los Muertos, and Halloween with craft beer, carnival, creepy haunted houses…and music, of course!

I would suggest strolling along historic 6th Street to enjoy down-home dining, good ale, and songs beneath the romantic lights reflected on the canal.

Cross the little footbridges that span the water, and you will find all manner of quirky delights, from weird museums to secret speakeasies! If you’re lucky, you might catch the Pecan Arts Festival and pick up some amazing artwork, crafts, and homewares by local makers! 

I highly recommend also exploring the breathtaking McKinney Falls State Park or Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. For some Texan tradition, head out to one of the corn mazes or pumpkin patches at a local farm!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Average temperature – 28 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• For those who love live music, be sure to visit Mohawk located downtown which hosts both touring and upcoming artists.
• Take a dip in the natural Barton Springs Pool which stays up to 68 degrees all year round.
• Another great activity to do to be immersed in the culture is learning how to do two-step dancing at Broken Spoke.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

In my opinion, this is the best month to enjoy the iconic landscape when daytime temperatures average a pleasant 60-80 degrees as opposed to the intolerable summer highs of 100!

The Arches National Park is instantly recognizable, and the ‘Delicate Arch’ (otherwise known as the Old Maid’s Bloomers!) has become a symbol of the entire state of Utah.

This prehistoric landscape has more than 2000 unique natural stone arches, which began to form around 65 million years ago and continue to change and erode minutely as each day passes.

The park is also home to some tribal petroglyphs, thought to be left by the nomadic Ute tribe of Native American Indians. I personally think there really is no other comparable place in the world, so get this on your bucket list!

• Average temperature – 21 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Embark up the 19-mile-long road along the Arches Scenic Drive and stop to admire several of the many scenic sights.
• Hike to the Delicate Arch and make sure to grab an Insta-worthy shot featuring the picturesque mountains in the background.
• If you’re looking to learn more about the park, take part in a free Ranger-Led program.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

I personally think this is a scenic driving route that rivals any other! Traversing 469 miles along the mountaintops south of Asheville, North Carolina, to the Virginia State Line and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway takes you past so many Appalachian beauty spots I can’t possibly fit them all in this section! 

I highly recommend exploring hidden caves and cliffs on the rugged Grandfather Mountain and seeing if you are brave enough to cross the mile-high swinging bridge, the highest of its kind in the country!

I would also suggest looking out for diverse wildlife such as black bears, river otters and cougars, bald eagles, and Elk. If you like a wild swim, head for Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, or the refreshing Skinny Dip Falls. Take in the fiery fall foliage from vantage points like Linn Cove Viaduct or the Richland Balsam Overlook…the highest elevation point on the parkway.

If you want to stay a while, I suggest one of the quaint towns such as Asheville, Banner Elk, Black Mountain, or Woodfin.

• Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
• Average temperature  – 13 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Hike to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls via one of the park’s trails.
• Take a trip to one of the local vineyards and experience world-class wine tasting.
• Visit the Blue Ridge Music Center which hosts several music events in their outdoor concert venue.

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

In my opinion, this is the best month to discover this gem as the summer crowds have dispersed, the scorching temperatures have dropped, the trees are alight with color and the weather is crisp and clear!

The famous Route 66 will take you directly through this vibrant historic city, the perfect base for exploring The Grand Canyon National Park and more local monuments like Walnut Canyon, where you can visit ancient cave dwellings and the red sandstone homes of the Pueblo tribes.

I would also suggest visiting nearby Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments. The contrast between the ancient arid landscape and the soaring heights of the San Francisco Peaks is truly unique. 

The city is bursting with culture, from craft breweries and live music to the nationally acclaimed Museum of Northern Arizona. I also recommend heading to The Lowell Observatory and catching the starry night skies.

• Visitors Center Address:  1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Average temperature – 17 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Indulge in the epic amount of pretzels, bratwurst and beer available during your stay.
• Climb up the hiking trails to capture the most stunning views.
• Soak up the gorgeous scenery that surrounds the area.

13. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 

As an outdoor lover, I can’t get enough of this place! There are 200 miles of unspoilt mountain paths to explore and the Snake River. I recommend hiking, boating, and climbing while enjoying the stunning crystal lakes and alpine landscapes. 

Animal lovers can spot elk, bears, owls, and colorful native birds, and there are numerous well-marked trails to explore all the beauty spots.

I would also suggest taking the Jenny Lake Ferry across the water to hike up the stunning Cascade Canyon and along the shimmering shoreline of Lake Solitude.

I think limber-legged hikers should try The Death Valley Trail and take in the amazing views of Glacial Phelps Lake. For the best chance of spotting Elk, Moose, and Grizzly Bears, I would suggest heading out on the relatively flat Two Ocean Lake Loop. Make sure you are equipped with bear spray in case the encounter gets hairy!

• Park Headquarters address: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
• Average temperature – 11 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Take a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain for picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discover the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hike along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake which is perfect for all ages and ability levels.

14. Maui, Hawaii

In my opinion, this is a perfect destination for an amazing fall break, as you can enjoy the island at its best without fighting your way through multitudes of other vacationers! Handily, the weather is beautiful all year round, so you can still enjoy the idyllic stretches of sandy beaches and turquoise waters. 

I highly recommend hiking to the top of the Iao Valley State Monument (believed to be a sacred place where ancient indigenous people performed rituals), exploring Haleakala National Park, viewing the waterfalls, and discovering the stunning Kipahulu Coastline.

For an unforgettable experience, hike up to the summit of the dormant volcano at sunrise or sunset to take in glorious views over the unique landscape.

Some of my favorite activities include taking part in ‘Aloha Fridays’ where I sometimes find myself at a fun street party and sampling local delicacies at the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival which takes place this month.

• Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
• Average temperature – 25 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• For one of the most memorable experiences, take a helicopter tour of this magnificent island.
• Explore the underwater world by going snorkelling and witnessing gorgeous sights.
• Going on the thrilling zip line through the trees.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is the easternmost county in the state of Wisconsin. It is located on a picturesque peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan.

In my opinion, it’s beautiful with a long shoreline, a pretty harbor with bobbing boats, a rare limestone beach and escarpments, which is why it’s also known as the ‘Cape Cod of The West’.

There are no less than five state parks across Door County which provide amazing opportunities for trekking, biking, and water sports, and this is when the trees are glowing with colors! I would also suggest visiting some of the eleven lighthouses including the historic Cana Lighthouse, built in 1859. 

I also love visiting local fall festivals, such as the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay. If you are a fan of laid-back towns, friendly locals, craft brews, and delicious seasonal cuisine, then I think you’d love visiting Door County in the Fall! 

• Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI
• Average temperature – 14 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Spend a night in the outdoors camping.
• Attend a fall festival and get involved with the fun activities.
• Wander through the forests for vibrant and gorgeous scenery.

16. Big Sur, California

This place always wows me! The whole stretch of Big Sur is incredibly popular, especially during the summer. Since it’s sunny most of the year, I recommend visiting this month instead.

I recommend visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the cascading McWay Falls throw rainbows on the cliff face above the twinkling Pacific Ocean.

I also couldn’t get enough of watching the noisy and fun elephant seals nearby and the Californian Sea Lions who hung out on the rocky outcrops.

I would just say that staying overnight in Big Sur can be extremely expensive, so I recommend taking a day to explore the coastline from sunrise to sunset and finding accommodation just outside the area. 

• Visitors Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Visit Point Lobos Natural Reserve, one of the most stunning state parks in all of California.
• Take an Instagrammable shot by the famous rock, Keyhole Arch, located on the magnificent Pfeiffer Beach.
• Drive over the iconic landmark, Bixby Creek Bridge whilst admiring enchanting views.

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

I personally think The Berkshires are just as enjoyable to visit in the fall—the summer crowds are gone, and the colored foliage adds a new kind of magic.

I recommend hiking or biking through one of the many State Forests, such as Bear Town or Tolland, home of the serene Otis Reservoir, one of several beautiful lakes and ponds in the district.

If you prefer your views from above, then I would suggest heading for Knife Edge or Squaw Peak and Devils Pulpit, situated within the stunning 503-acre Monument Mountain Reservation. Also, leave time for a delicious farm-to-table dining experience in one of the local farm-come-eateries. 

I think the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, which houses the largest collection of his paintings worldwide, is worth a visit. The Emily Dickinson Museum, where she lived and died in nearby Amherst, is also worth a visit. 

• Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202
• Average temperature – 16 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Watch a concert under the stars at the open-air venue Tanglewood.
• Hike through Mount Greylock which features the highest point in the state and great observation points.
• Have some fun on one of the several lakes located across the area with pristine waters and gorgeous surroundings.

18. Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

If you want to avoid the unbearably hot temperatures, then this month is a great time to visit Las Vegas. If you search hard enough, you can also find some bargains on hotel prices! 

Halloween is a big deal in the city, and I would suggest going on a fun ghost tour in the abandoned mining town of Goodsprings …very Scooby-Doo!

All the usual adventures are still available, such as helicopter and hot air balloon rides over The Grand Canyon or the strip by night, and the autumn light is really beautiful as a bonus! 

Back on the strip, I would recommend a romantic gondola ride along the Venetian’s Grand Canal or catching one of the famous shows. Of course, you can also hit the slot machines, which will swallow your dollars any time of year without discrimination!

• Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Average temperature – 29 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Capture an unbelievable Instagrammable shot overlooking the Grand Canyon after hiking around the area.
• Check out what shows are happening then choose your favorite.
• Take a road trip drive from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon where you will discover many natural attractions along the way.

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Summer is the rainy season in Charleston, SC, so it’s a great month to visit. Temperatures are mild, humidity drops, and it’s also a great time for bargain hotel deals!

Charleston is the oldest planned Anglo-American town in the country. Its streets are lined with elegant colonial buildings and antebellum manor houses. The very first shot of the Civil War was fired here at Fort Sumter, and relics of the period can be found all around the city.

My favorite areas are the Georgian architecture of Rainbow Row, the stunning Waterfront Park and the elaborate Pineapple Fountain. I love that Broad Street offers an array of independent shopping and boutiques within buildings which are biscuit-tin-beautiful!

• North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Head over to the scenic waterway at Shem Creek for a spot of paddle boarding.
• Cruise around in a PediCab bike taxi to get from one place to the next around the towns.
• Walk over the Ravenel Bridge which is located over the Cooper River offering gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor.

20. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This relatively new National Park is a hidden gem sandwiched between the two cities of Akron and Cleveland along the banks of the Cuyahoga River. I’m a big fan of this tranquil paradise filled with well-marked trails, canal paths and The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.

I also love the magnificent Brandy Wine Falls, which cascades down a 60-foot drop and feeds the many other smaller falls surrounding it. I also love the intriguing Ice Box Caves and the spectacular Ledges Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of the fall foliage.

Long-distance hikers can enjoy exploring the park’s 125 miles of trails, while those who prefer a gentle stroll can tackle shorter routes. Alternatively, I recommend a relaxing shop at Szlays Sweet Corn and Farmers Market.

• Address: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125
• Average temperature – 17 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• For those who love hiking, there are an array of exciting trails to adventure around.
• Check out a farmer’s market for local produce and goods.
• Discover the overlooks for breathtaking Insta-worthy shots.