As summer exhales its final breaths, sightseers around the world begin to crave the countless sensory amusements of a United States fall. Travelers delight in the sweet-sounding crunch of colorful leaves beneath their feet, welcoming a chill to the air that beckons sweaters out of storage.
Even those who shy away from the cold can find a place to enjoy fall without the characteristic cool down. Whether a travel bug is in search of a traditional experience or something a little more unexpected, the list below features the best trips to take in the U.S. in October.
8 Bar Harbor, Maine
Quintessentially fall, Bar Harbor offers some of the most breathtaking views of foliage in the country. Visitors can smell the change in season as the chilled Atlantic breeze stirs the scent of changing leaves into the air, a salty sweetness sure to ignite feelings of fall. Only a short drive to Acadia National Park, vacationers can witness the first sight of sunrise in the United States atop Cadillac Mountain, soothed by the sound of waves coming to shore. After enjoying the sights, head back to town to enjoy some of the freshest lobster in the world, or take a trolley tour to explore everything Bar Harbor has to offer.
7 Portland, Oregon
Known for its artsy, offbeat vibes, Portland is the perfect place to get weird this fall. In the mood for something spooky? Visitors are invited to take a tour of the historic Lone Fir Cemetery, home to 25,000 souls and over 60 types of changing trees.
Tourists in the mood for something less ghostly can enjoy a plethora of fall-inspired drinks and sweets at the hippest cafes Portland has to offer. If nature is sought, nature will be found, as Portland is home to a variety of parks and gardens sure to gratify any visitor looking for fall beauty in a city setting.
6 Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
This diverse landscape is teeming with wildlife enjoying the dawn of autumn. Take a scenic drive through Badlands National Park to observe neighborhoods of prairie dogs popping their heads in and out of holes dug from amber-colored valleys. Spot big-horned sheep traversing rocky dykes and buffalo journeying across fields.
Take a break from nature at historic Wall Drug, where visitors are invited to sample homemade donuts and take photos with the famed 80ft tall dinosaur. A trip to South Dakota in October is sure to satisfy any animal-loving wanderer.
5 Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Hugged by the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs offers both traditional and eccentric charm in a warmer climate. Guests can expect to be impressed by the diverse downtown, where Victorian-era homes and bohemian-inspired shops animate the streets.
Visitors can choose to zipline through the changing trees or enjoy the magnificent colors from Beaver Lake on a Belle of the Ozarks water tour. Art and nature abound in this charming mountain city, with no shortage of unique experiences for anyone looking to take a trip to one of the most underrated states in the country this October.
4 Sedona, Arizona
Known for its stunning red rocks, Sedona, Arizona is the perfect place to take a trip in October. As temperatures grow milder, sightseers will be captivated by the season’s transition against the desert backdrop. Take in the sights from above on a hot air balloon ride, or stay grounded and observe from the Verde Canyon Railroad.
Visitors are invited to witness artists create masterpieces or participate in workshops alongside them at Sedona’s Plein Air Art Festival, taking place this year between October 23-30. Bristling with natural beauty and breathtaking art, Sedona is guaranteed to inspire its tourists this October.
3 Glacier National Park, Montana
Behold the transformation of Glacier National Park’s notable tamarack trees from rich greens to breathtaking golds, peaking in mid-October. Heralded for its awe-inspiring beauty in any season, the park shines during the fall due to the changing colors that are reflected in the clear waters of Lake McDonald.
There is no shortage of hikes in Glacier National Park, each offering unique views of fall foliage. Sightseers are more likely to catch a glimpse of the abundant and iconic wildlife inhabiting the gorgeous landscape in October. Snow-loving visitors may even be delighted with dustings that offer yet another scenic shade to enjoy.
2 Mackinac Island, Michigan
Take a ferry and go back in time to Michigan’s historically steeped Mackinac Island. Notorious for its lakeside charms, the island is the perfect getaway for any traveler looking to enjoy fall colors near the water. Visitors can take the area’s famous fudge to the Grand Hotel, home of the world’s largest porch, and sit in a rocking chair that overlooks Lake Michigan.
Escape traditional modes of transportation, as there are no cars on the island. Travelers are welcomed to enjoy enchanting carriage ride tours of the island. Those looking for exercise can cycle through the streets or hike through the numerous limestone bluffs in the area.
1 Destin, Florida
For those wanderers unwilling to part with hot weather, Destin, Florida offers magnificent beachside sunsets sure to soothe the souls of summer lovers. Located in the Panhandle, tourist season peaks during the summer months, which means October visitors reap the benefits of more budget-friendly accommodations and thinner crowds. Average temperatures hover in the mid-70s, allowing tourists to enjoy their trip without a chill.
Activities abound on this sunshine state getaway, including dolphin tours along the Gulf Coast, snorkeling, fishing, and boardwalk strolls, just to name a few.