Here Are The 15 Absolute Best Places To Visit In October Across The United States
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Chris Muras
Author
There is something special about a fall road trip, with changing leaves, cool crisp air, and a sense of peace that falls over the earth as it transitions into another season. Here are some of the best places to visit in the U.S. in October to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of our wonderful country.
This article is part our Best Places to Visit in the USA series. If you’re looking for the top places to visit around the country in each month of the year then look no further, our guides will give you all the seasonal travel inspiration you need to find the perfect location for your next getaway:
| SPRING IN USA | SUMMER IN USA | FALL IN USA | WINTER IN USA |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | June | September | December |
| April | July | October | January |
| May | August | November | February |
Best Places to Visit in The USA In October
When October rolls around the weather cools off and we can get away from the heat of summer to enjoy a few destinations that transform in the fall. Here are a few places to visit in the USA that have a special meaning to us come October.
Stowe, VT 05672, USA
- Location: Stowe, VT
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Stowe, Vermont in October has to be on your bucket list if you enjoy fall color road trips. The peak season for leaf-peeping in Vermont is from early September until late October.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This perfect little yellow cabin in the mountains is a delightful spot for a romantic fall colors trip in Vermont. It was built in 1890 and couldn't be any more charming after its modern overhaul.
How could such a small town capture our hearts so fiercely? Stowe, Vermont is one of those towns where you simply fall in love the first time you visit. From the historic small-town feel to the beautiful fall colors bursting around Mount Mansfield each autumn, to wine tours, mountain camping, cider festivals, and the incredible friendly vibe. When you plan your next Vermont getaway make sure you swing by Stowe and be prepared to be swept off your feet.
Dallas, TX, USA
- Location: Dallas, TX
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Dallas, Texas in October is just about perfect because the summer heat has been packed away for another year and you can enjoy the cool air, bright colors, and excitement of a big city celebrating fall. Especially fun is the "Art of the Pumpkin" event at the Dallas Arboretum.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Be sure to stay at one of the most architecturally unique homes in Dallas in the electrifying Lower Greenville neighborhood. It will wow you with its elegance, charm, and playfulness.
We started off our list with a charming small town in Vermont with a big heart - Dallas is another amazing, big city this time, with that same heart. When October rolls around each year, the tourist season starts to wind down and we get our city to ourselves for a bit. But that doesn't mean we won't share it with you when you come for a fall visit. Let's catch a Cowboys game at the AT&T Stadium, get cultured in the Arts District, or better yet, surround ourselves with the buzz of live music and a thriving nightlife scene in Deep Ellum as we savor some epic Tex-Mex with a local brew.
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Salem, MA, USA
- Location: Salem, MA
- Why Visit In October: Toward the end of October, come to downtown Salem for the Festival of the Dead. It is a hauntingly delightful week-long event culminating with the Witches' Halloween Ball.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Just because you are visiting Salem, Massachusetts in October doesn't mean your accommodations need to be scary. This fantastic modern cottage is the perfect spot for you and that special someone to stay for all of the Halloween festivities in Salem.
If we tickled your fancy for Halloween delights in Orlando, Salem is ready to give you permanent goosebumps. What better place could there be to spend October than Salem Massachusetts? Because of its ominous history with the Salem Witch Trials, Salem takes Halloween celebrations to a whole new level so get ready to be scared out of your boots (or shoes, sandals, moccasins, or slippers for that matter). With more haunted houses, historical sites, spooky trolly tours, and graveyard ghost stories than you can shake a broomstick at, Salem is the place to be for some spooky fun in October.
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Best Attractions To Visit In The USA In October To Avoid Crowds
Some of the best October vacations in the US involve discovering places where we can get away from the crowds and enjoy the quiet and beauty of a particular area. Even in some of the most popular cities we can find things to do that don’t involve huge crowds. Here are a few fun examples.
Orlando, FL, USA
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Why Visit In October: Plan a vacation to Orlando in October to take advantage of a secret love you may not have known Orlandoans share - a spooky fascination with haunted places. You might be surprised to hear about all of the creepy attractions in this vibrant city.
- Where To Stay Nearby: When visiting Orlando, Florida a stay at this three-bedroom home in a safe neighborhood is just about perfect for your family.
Everybody and their uncle (and grandparents, kids, dogs, cats, and frogs maybe) comes to Orlando for Disney World - but if you want something even better away from the crowds, Orlando has plenty more to offer. Since October is filled with Halloween magic, Orlando is a fun city to enjoy some devilish dealings of the dark. Tour the haunted Greenwood Cemetery, dare to drink at a haunted speakeasy, or drive the haunted highway, I-4 between Daytona and Orlando. If a creepy tour of this usually bubbly city sounds like a fun break from the norm, go on a haunted road trip around Florida, and be sure to stop at some of Orlando's spookiest attractions.
San Francisco, CA, USA
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Why Visit In October: There is something about visiting San Francisco, California in October that really feels special. It might surprise you to hear October is the second warmest month in San Fran (September is number one) or that outdoor festivals spring to life, not in the spring, but in the fall when the natural areas of the city come to life with color.
- Where To Stay Nearby: For an even more unique experience in San Francisco, book this historic yellow ferryboat. The SS City of Seattle was first launched in 1888, now it has been turned into a luxury rental with over 2,500 square feet of pure charm.
We've all heard about some of the main draws to San Francisco - the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, the creepy Alcatraz, and the culturally vibrant Chinatown. But San Francisco has a secret it holds pretty close to its vest that trumps all other things you think you may know about this historic town. San Francisco is just plain fun. From the energy surrounding Fisherman's Wharf to the nostalgic cable cars tooting their own horns to the beautiful and diverse districts each with its own charm and magic. If you haven't been to San Francisco yet, this delightful city needs to be on your bucket list. Even if you have been here multiple times, we look forward to having you back.
Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Las Vegas in October can be one of the busiest times of the year unless you know where to go. With plenty of beautiful natural areas around Vegas to enjoy, October is a nice time to visit off-strip locations where the crowds are a bit more laid back.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Get away from the crowded high rises and into this peaceful single-story home with a zen-like jacuzzi.
You might not think about Las Vegas as a place to go to get away from the crowds other than maybe a concert held by a group of Elvis impersonators impersonating other Elvis impersonators. But, there are some things to do in Vegas that don't involve massive amounts of crazy shenanigans. If you like to get outdoors, try a sunset horseback ride in Red Rock Canyon. If you love animals, and particularly lions, visit the Lion Habitat Ranch. It is a sanctuary for the retired lions from MGM shows. If shopping and fine dining are your thing, head to Lake Las Vegas for a casual walk around the lake with the occasional stop at some of the waterfront shops.
Best Places To Visit In The US In October For Outdoor Adventure
Some of the best places to travel in October in the USA are known as meccas for outdoor lovers. From our wonderful state and national parks to entire cities that are known as particularly fun centers of activity. Here are some places to visit for a little outdoor adventure.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
- Location: Shenandoah National Park, VA
- Why Visit In October: The Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley are truly a sight to see in October when the leaves turn to gold and the rich valley below glimmers like a jewel in the setting sun.
- Where To Stay Nearby: When visiting the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia a stay at a 54-acre retreat surrounded by a cornucopia of fall colors sounds like a dream vacation. Especially as the sunset glows across the forest in your private backyard and the stars are lit on fire in the night sky.
Another enchanting destination for enjoying fall colors is Shenandoah National Park. The cool crisp air in October compliments the bountiful palate of autumn leaves as you explore the many hiking trails, splash in a waterfall or two, or enjoy a scenic drive along Skyline Drive. Be sure to hold your breath as you drive through the 600-foot Mary's Rock Tunnel that was carved through a mountain.
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Denver, CO, USA
- Location: Denver, CO
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Denver Colorado is ideal if sweater weather is your jam. Break out the cozy knits and curl up by a fire after spending the day hiking in the mountains becoming enchanted by fall colors.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Just outside of Denver is a luxurious mountain treehouse that will take your breath away. If you are looking for the perfect home base for exploring the Denver area this magical home will accommodate a small family or a couple looking to rekindle some romance.
Denver may be divine in December, but it is fantastically fabulous in October. Or should we say outrageously orange? Ostentatiously opulent? Well, just plain cool, let's stick with that. Denver is a fun city, to begin with, but when the air cools and the trees flicker like gemstones it is time to hit up A Bit Twisted Brewpub & BBQ for a seasonal brew and sloppy sandwich. Of course, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is a pretty epic spot to enjoy live music or maybe the ultimate yoga session, too.
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Best Places To Visit In October For Events
October is a beautiful time of year, and that means there are some fun events to look forward to. From fall color road trips to fall festivals and holidays. What better way to enjoy this delightful time of year is there than by checking out some of these next few destinations?
Blue Ridge Parkway, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Cherokee, NC, USA
- Location: North Carolina and Virginia
- Why Visit In October: Let's face it, your bucket list will not be complete without a fall foliage road trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in October is ideal because peak color-changing occurs from mid to late October.
- Where To Stay Nearby: If you are driving the entire 469 miles from end to end you could stay in either North Carolina or Virginia. The charming Lyndhurst Cabin near Waynesboro, VA is a good place to start. Or, on the North Carolina side, the Lindsey Mill Cabin near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park is simply divine.
Perhaps the most iconic fall color drive is along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina. This epic drive connecting the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina is the epitome of autumn beauty. Be sure to stop at these ten picturesque overlooks along the way.
Lake Geneva, WI 53147, USA
- Location: Lake Geneva, WI
- Why Visit In October: Wisconsin has a rich German heritage, so what better time is there to visit Lake Geneva, Wisconsin than in October for Oktoberfest? From apple cider doughnuts to Oktoberfest bratwurst, you'll discover there is something for all ages at Lake Geneva Oktoberfest.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Just outside of Milwaukee you'll find Lake Geneva, and this cabin on the lake is the perfect spot to stay when visiting Lake Geneva, Wisconsin in October.
Lake Geneva has been a vacation spot in Wisconsin since the 1800s when residents of Chicago spread out to discover this beautiful lake region. October is a delightful time of year in Wisconsin, particularly around the lake, with cabins, bonfires, boating, and fall colors to enjoy. If you haven't treated yourself to a Lake Geneva vacation yet, plan one for October to take advantage of not only the beautiful fall colors but the celebrations that occur for Oktoberfest.
Best Hidden Gems to Visit in the US in October
When it comes to places to go in October in the USA we all have our favorites. Whether that is a fall colors trip in New England or a mountain getaway in Colorado. But sometimes it is fun to explore new areas that we haven’t even considered. Here are a few hidden gems to add to your fall travel bucket list.
Newfane, VT, USA
- Location: Newfane, VT
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Newfane Vermont in October will give you the opportunity to enjoy its Heritage Festival. Arts and crafts, live entertainment, a bounty of fall colors, and great food, including warm apple pie with crisp Vermont apples.
- Where To Stay Nearby: The cozy Falls Brook Cabin is one of Newfane's hidden gem accommodations with beautiful views and your own private swimming hole.
We've mentioned some of Vermont's popular destinations for fall travel, but sometimes a quant small town that not many have heard about is really something special. Such is the case with Newfane. This tiny town is the shire, or county seat, for Windham County, Vermont and it has that New England charm that feels exactly the same now as it did hundreds of years ago when it was first settled in 1766. (It was first chartered in 1753)
Gulf Shores, AL, USA
- Location: Gulf Shores, AL
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Gulf Shores, Alabama in October is the perfect time to take part in the annual shrimp festival. Each year around mid-October several hundred thousand people come together to celebrate their love of shrimp with music, art, and of course, lots of shrimp.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Most people rent a crowded condo on the beach, but if you want something extra special how about this delightful luxury home with its own pool, Tiki Bar, and pickleball court? Pelican's Perch can accommodate up to 14 guests spread out in four bedrooms.
The Gulf Shores of Alabama is a place you imagine when you think about a white sand beach. The sugary fine grains of sand are actually pure white quartz crystals that were slowly ground down and transported from the Appalachian Mountains during the last ice age and deposited in the Gulf of Mexico. The picture-perfect beaches and glorious sunsets in the Gulf Shores are a huge reason to make a special trip any time of year, however, October is especially nice because the heat and humidity calm down yet the ocean water remains warm.
Buena Vista, CO 81211, USA
- Location: Buena Vista, CO
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Buena Vista, Colorado in October lets you enjoy the river rafting the area is so well known for at a slightly calmer pace. There are still plenty of swift rapids, however, the turbulent spring waters slow down a bit in the fall.
- Where To Stay Nearby: You really can't go wrong with so many wonderful cabins and houses for rent in this beautiful part of Colorado. River Haven is a lovely four-bedroom home on the Arkansas River. You'll enjoy your own private 400-foot section of the river all to yourself.
If you love hiking, especially high-mountain hiking, Buena Vista is extra special. With 12 mountain peaks higher than 14,000 feet (called 14ers) in Chafee County and several more within a short drive, you have plenty of options when it comes to incredible mountain hikes. In October you can expect to enjoy a light dusting of snow on these mountain peaks and the changing leaves at lower elevation is particularly stunning. After a good long hike head to the hot spring in Buena Vista to warm up and chill out.
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Silver Falls State Park, Oregon, USA
- Location: Silver Falls State Park, OR
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Silver Falls State Park in October is simply magical with changing leaves, cool temperatures, and waterfalls galore.
- Where To Stay Nearby: While there are plenty of campsites in the park that make for a wonderful family getaway, this charming updated farmhouse in nearby Sublimity, OR is the perfect home base for exploring the area.
If you are wondering where to visit in October in the USA for playing in the most waterfalls, try Silver Falls State Park. This Oregon state park is the largest in the state and is well-known for its stunning waterfalls. On one trail alone - the Trail of Ten Falls - you can run into, you guessed it, ten waterfalls. The highlight of the trail is the spectacular South Falls that plummets 177 feet into a dream-like pool of water surrounded by lush forest. As the trail winds back behind the falls you are treated to a wonderful sight that feels like something out of a fairy tale.
- Location: Taylors Falls, MN
- Why Visit In October: Visiting Taylors Falls, Minnesota in October is a wonderful time of year when the bugs are less active, the air is cool, and the St. Croix Valley is alive with color and the scent of White Pine needles. Go on a riverboat tour on the St. Croix, hike or climb in Interstate State Park, or spend time in the charming downtown with cute shops and places to grab a bite to eat.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This updated historic home on the St. Croix River is a wonderful place to stay for a family vacation to Taylors Falls.
You might not be aware of it quite yet but Taylors Falls is one of the best cities to visit in October in the USA. Those in the know are well aware of how charming this little city is and how picture-perfect the St. Croix River can be in the fall. Interstate State Park is a fun place to explore with over 200 fascinating "potholes" that were created by swirling sand and water from the glacial St. Croix River more than 10,000 years ago. If the weather has been particularly dry you may even be able to see to the bottom of the 60-foot-deep "Bottomless Pit," the largest pothole in the park. Most of the time it looks just like its name implies.
As you’ve read through our featured road trips and vacation destinations, we hope you have been inspired to start planning your next getaway. There is so much to see and do in the US that we may not have even been aware of. And October is a wonderful time to travel. What are some of the best places to visit in the U.S. in October that you have discovered
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