53 Best Places To Visit In October In The USA

October is a great time to get outdoors and explore everything the USA has to offer.

Whether it be chasing beautiful fall foliage or relaxing on a beach, the country has something for everyone.

1. New York, New York  

Visiting NYC in October is never boring as The Big Apple starts preparing for the holiday season.

You can go attend concerts like the Summer Stage event, which saves one last concert for October days.

You can also embrace your inner comic and/or anime fan and hit the world-famous New York Comic Con.

If you’re one for natural scenery, you can enjoy fall foliage while cruising the Hudson River or strolling through Central Park, The High Line, and Prospect Park.

NYC has a lot more to offer in October, from Broadway shows and Halloween parades to ice skating and food festivals.

2. Acadia National Park 

October is a majestic time to go down to Acadia National Park.

The summer crowds are no more, the weather chilly, and the color change of the leaves paints a picturesque landscape of fall foliage.

Once you arrive, you can dive right into the action and hike the Beehive Loop Trail, the Bubbles Trail, or the Precipice Loop Trail.

Alternatively, you can take it easy and stroll the Ocean Path, walk around Jordan Pond, drive the length of Park Loop Road, or enjoy Sand Beach.

Make sure you stop by the top of Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole for a breathtaking view.

3. New England

They say nothing beats a New England fall, and that’s right on the money!

With the forest, sea, and mountains exploding with magnificent colours, this history-rich region is at its peak in October.

You can hike incredible trails across Harold Parker State Forest, Mount Washington, or World’s End park.

If you want to zip line with a stunning fall foliage view, hit Berkshire’s Catamount Mountain Resort or New Hampshire’s Gunstock Mountain Resort.

You can also get your cultural hat on at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston or enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience whale watching in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you want your October plans to be out of this world, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the spot to visit.

Typically, fall turns this park into a brilliant display of warm colours, spreading all across the mountainsides. Not to mention, the weather is beautiful at that time of year.

This park has a lot of activities to offer. You can explore the Cades Cove Loop Road where you can drive, hike, see historic buildings, or spot fascinating wildlife.

If you’re interested in gorgeous waterfall hikes, be sure to hit the Laurel Falls and the Grotto Falls. You can even go elk-watching in the Cataloochee Valley region.

5. San Francisco, California

Fall in San Francisco offers heaps of fun with a variety of outstanding experiences, pretty scenery, and exciting culture.

You can focus on famous attractions and go see the Golden Gate Bridge, check out the Alcatraz National Park, and ride the iconic cable cars.

You can also catch sight of playful sea lions at Pier 39, shop at the Ferry Building market, explore Chinatown, lounge at Dolores Park, or get inspired at the de Young Fine Arts Museum.

As a bonus, the Mediterranean climate of the Golden Gate City makes it ideal to visit in October.

6. Napa Valley, California

The beauty of Napa Valley is simply extraordinary in October. The vivid fall colours decorate a sea of native trees to give visitors a scenic view like no other.

If you’re looking to kick back with good food, fantastic wine, and exquisite backdrops, the Harvest Inn in St.Helena or Rutherford’s Hill Winery is waiting for you.

Down in Napa, you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of astonishing nature.

On the east side of the valley, don’t miss the iconic drive up the Silverado Trail/CA-121 to see hillsides bathed in golden and crimson hues.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway

Fall and Blue Ridge Parkway are the dynamic duo of the Appalachian Mountain range.

If you’re seeking warm October foliage, head to Grandfather Mountain and snap some unforgettable shots on Linn Cove Viaduct.

You can also explore wildlife, fauna, flora, and waterfalls across Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park or North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

For an adrenaline rush, hit Mount Mitchell; the highest mountain peak on the east coast.

Speaking of which, you can also check out the Biltmore Estate; the largest home in the United States owned by George Vanderbilt’s company.

8. Shenandoah National Park

Your fall adventure bucket list should definitely have a spot for Shenandoah National, which is a scenic drive away from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Enjoying the fall colours in this park is inevitable, starting with a car cruise through Skyline Drive’s 105 miles of gorgeous shades.

Inside the park, be sure to stop by the Little Stony Man Overlook that’s only a 0.9-mile hike. You can also make your way to the popular Stony Man Summit, Bearfence Mountain, and Crescent Rock Overlook.

For a memorable dining experience accompanied by panoramic views, be sure to visit the Skyland Resort.

9. San Diego, California

October is one of the most thrilling months to experience in San Diego, California.

Besides the warm weather, you get to bask in the beauty of the city’s beaches without the summer crowds blocking your fun.

If you like spooky vibes, check out haunted hotels and houses such as Grand Colonial La Jolla and The Whaley House.

You can also visit action-packed pumpkin stations including the Rancho Bernardo farm and Mission Valley to turn your fall spirit on.

Not to mention, you can always spend a day at LEGOLAND and embrace your inner kid!

10. Blue Ridge Mountains  

One of the oldest mountainous ranges around the globe (literally over a billion years old!) and the gem of the Appalachian Range, the Blue Ridge Mountains are an absolute jaw-dropper in October when the foliage becomes flame-coloured.

Soak up the glorious colours of fall by cruising the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking your way to Crabtree Falls in Nelson County, or exploring the Natural Bridge State Park.

You can also enjoy a blues and bluegrass fix at the Blue Ridge Music Center, meet wild ponies along the Massie Gap Trail, or test your bouldering skills and conquer the rock spire Dragon’s Tooth or the like rock ledge McAfee Knob.

11. Salt Lake City

Before the infamous ski season rolls in, Salt Lake City is blessed with a marvellous fall where marvellous foliage and fun-packed activities await its visitors.

You can load up on the most delicious food and drink in a variety of Oktoberfests, like the 4th West or the Snowbird.

You can also have some quality time with the family at the Wheeler Farm Pumpkin Days or go on an adventure with friends at the Bluebell Corn Maze.

If you want to do some shopping for local goods, hit the Downtown Farmers Market while admiring the warm colours of leaves in Pioneer Park.

12. Walt Disney World, Florida 

October magic is something else in the enchanting Walt Disney World, with fall and Halloween vibes wrapping up the place in an inviting allure.

You can go on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, enjoy Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, or relish the annual EPCOT Food & Wine Festival.

Note that October 1st marks the anniversary of Walt Disney World, so be on the lookout for something special like the 18-month celebration of 2021.

13. Yosemite National Park, California

Get ready for a world-class experience in Yosemite National Park in October; one of the best times to bask in nature’s beauty.

Don’t expect spectacular fall foliage as most of the park’s trees are green, but it still has plenty of black oak, bigleaf maple, and Pacific dogwood trees to show you the golden colours of changing seasons.

You can drive to Yosemite Valley and see its amazing cliffs, waterfalls, meadows, and rock formations. Don’t miss the view from Glacier Point overlook!

You can also hike to the glorious Hetch Hetchy Valley, kick back in the Crane Flat area, or check out giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove.

14. Las Vegas 

October in Las Vegas isn’t just about glamour and parties, the city also has no shortage of spots where you see fall colours.

For Halloween fans, celebrate the spooky season at the harvest festival in Springs Preserve. In Hofbrauhaus, you can unleash your beer-loving self with Oktoberfestbier all the way from Munich!

If you’re after stunning outdoor scenery, mother nature welcomes you with grand foliage across the Spring Mountain National Recreation Area or the Floyd Lamb Park.

If you’re up for a drive, the Great Basin National Park is worth the 290-mile trip. A bit closer is Zion National Park where cottonwoods and oaks shine with golden hues.

15. Lake Champlain  

With cool temperatures and mesmerizing foliage sights, Lake Champlain makes for a terrific October trip.

You can go on a ferry ride from Burlington to Port Kent across the lake, but don’t forget to drop by Burlington’s megadiverse Farmers Market first.

If you can’t decide between walking and biking, you can find trails to do both at the Waterfront Park with open views of the lake.

Mount Philo State Park offers breathtaking scenes of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain Valley. Besides the fall colours, this park is an excellent location for watching bird migrations.

16. Door County, Wisconsin

Fall in Door County is super rich with varied events, picturesque foliage, and fantastic food.

If you feel like attending a festival, take your pick from the Sister Bay Fall Fest, Fish Creek Oktoberfest, or Egg Harbor’s Pumpkin Patch Festival.

Fall colours will be decorating your drive along the Coastal Byway. If you find yourself in the Peninsula State Park, be sure to check out the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.

Another popular lighthouse is the one in Baileys Harbor on Canna Island.

A visit to Cave Point County Park offers plenty of hiking trails, underwater caves, and limestone cliffs. There, you’ll see the warm colour palette of the season clash with the blue of Lake Michigan.

17. Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is an absolute treat in October.

This resort town is home to Acadia National Park, which stretches over 48,000 acres to give you a unique opportunity to enjoy a magnificent array of fall colours.

Inside the park, you can hike the Jordan Pond Trail or the Bubble Rock Trail. You can also cruise a car up Cadillac Mountain or to Bass Harbor Head lighthouse.

Outside of the park, you can watch the sunrise and view the Porcupine islands at Frenchman Bay. More nature awaits in Asticou Azalea Garden where flora meets pond.

18. Yellowstone National Park

October is an awesome time to visit Yellowstone National Park because the crowds are few, so you can have the trails, roadways, lakes, mountains, volcanic spots, and rivers pretty much all to yourself!

The park’s fall colours are a sight to behold with burnt orange grassy landscapes and golden leaves adorning the trees. This season is also great for spotting elks, bison, grizzly bears, and deer.

Some popular hiking regions include Old Faithful, Madison, and Mammoth Hot Springs. The park is also loaded with waterfalls such as Firehole Falls, Lewis Falls, and Tower Falls.

19. Grand Canyon National Park

The right place at the right time is the Grand Canyon National Park in October. The weather is nice, the South and North Rims are open, and the crowds are fewer.

In addition to the dramatic scenery throughout the park, you can scratch the rim-to-rim hike off of your bucket list. Start on the North Kaibab Trail and finish on the Bright Angel Trail.

For an unforgettable sunrise view, hit Yavapai Point or Mathers Point. An equally brilliant voice of the sunset is from the Yaki Point or the Pima Point.

20. Mono Lake

The haunting beauty of Mono Lake only gets more alluring in October.

During your visit, the first thing you need to do is behold the distinctive Tufa towers. These tall mineral columns along the shoreline are also home to osprey and owls above water as well as alkali flies underwater.

Don’t miss the gorgeous fall colours in the Conway Summit area, Walker Creek, and the meadows of Lundy Canyon.

A stroll along the June Lake Loop offers unforgettable views of orange, golden, and even bright red leaves.

21. Jackson, Wyoming

Located in Jackson Hole, this town can be a lot of fun in October despite being an off-season month.

You can enjoy some bluegrass in the Silver Dollar Showroom, get in Halloween spirit at the Jackson Hole Playhouse, or go stargazing at events off Highway 22 and 390.

The Snow King Mountain Resort also holds a lively Oktoberfest, so check it out.

If you want to rent a boat, go hiking, or even camp amongst the fall colours, shining water, and high peaks, hit the Grand Teton National Park. Don’t miss the grand Jackson Lake!

22. San Antonio, Texas 

As the temperatures drop in San Antonio, October brings along pretty fall colours and exciting outdoor adventures.

Near the town, you can enjoy shades of orange, yellow, and red foliage in various parks.

The Guadalupe River State Park is 38 miles away from the city centre, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is 90 miles away, and Garner State Park is 91 miles away.

Inside the city, you can visit the San Antonio Missions, the action-packed SeaWorld, or the kid-friendly San Antonio Zoo.

23. Grand Teton National Park

October in Grand Teton National Park marks the arrival of fall. The aspens become vibrant orange, yellow, and red, while the air turns cooler and the sun shines gentler.

Hiking is wonderful throughout the park, with the best trails including Valley Trail and Flagg Canyon Trail. You’ll see fantastic views of the Teton Range, Jackson Lake, and Phelps Lake.

You can also enjoy wildlife watching as deer, elk, moose, bears, and wolves are more active during breeding and foraging seasons.

24. Eastern Sierras, California  

Scenic destinations in the Eastern Sierras only get more mesmerizing when October rolls in.

You can soak up astonishing fall colours in North Lake where aspen and pine meet a breathtaking backdrop of mountain peaks. A bit to the west lies Intake Two lake with its gentle hikes, trout-stocked waters, and luscious space for horseback riding.

Also in the Eastern Sierras region, you can relax in Cardinal Village’s rustic cabins, cafes, and stores. Other spots to relish fall colours include Lake Sabrina, Round Valley, and Bishop Creek.

25. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan  

Making lifelong memories is inevitable when visiting the Pictured Rocks area in October.

By land, you can catch brilliant views of fall foliage hiking the Chapel Basin Loop. The golden trees adorning sandstone cliffs may distract you, but don’t forget to check out the Grand Portal Point and Chapel while you’re at it.

Highway 58 offers one of the most bewitching scenic drives, stretching along Pictured Rocks park. You’ll pass the Log Slide overlook and Sable Falls where you’ll see gigantic dunes.

26. Asheville, North Carolina

Captivating fall foliage and pleasant weather will welcome you on your next visit to Asheville in October.

You can start with a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re into hiking, some of the most beautiful trails are Fryingpan Mountain Tower, Mount Pisgah, Art Loeb, and Black Balsam Knob.

You can also go pumpkin picking in Asheville at Grace Episcopal Church or go apple picking at the popular Hendersonville in Henderson County.

Additionally, you can tour the Biltmore Estate, attend Oktoberfests, or have a picnic by Beaver Lake or Lake Powhatan.

27. Miami, Florida

Also known as The Magic City, Miami is an exciting destination for your October vacation. It offers famous beaches, rows of palm trees, diverse shopping centres, cultural museums, delicious food, and much more attractions.

You can experience the Luminosa Chinese Lantern Festival, attend the Aqua Girl event, or visit the historic Deering Estate.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a great way to enjoy fall colours alongside a luxurious architectural design.

You can even go on a boat tour to see Fisher Island, Millionaire’s Row, Miami Skyline, Brickell Key, and the Port of Miami.

28. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

If you’re a history buff with a love for fall colours, visiting Harpers Ferry in October is one of the best decisions you can take.

First off, you can head to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park where you can visit museums, hike to see Civil War remnants, and enjoy picturesque overlooks.

From The Point, check out the view of West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia wrapped with the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can also conquer the legendary Appalachian National Scenic Trail, overlooking more than 2,180 miles of nature’s striking beauty.

29. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

One of the top destinations to soak up the fascinating fall colours is no doubt Mount Rainier National Park.

If you don’t mind a road trip, the Chinook Scenic Byway is a must-try. You get to view dense forests, river canyons, rocky ridges, and the -of course- towering peaks of the Cascade Range.

If you prefer blood-pumping hikes, you can try the Skyline Trail Loop, Sunderland Trail, Tolmie Peak Trail, and Naches Peak Loop.

Don’t forget to check out Myrtle Falls, Narada Falls, Paradise Inn (brunch is a great idea!), and Reflection Lake.

30. Bennington, Vermont

About an hour away from Albany, Bennington is your gateway to outdoor recreation in Vermont.

Visiting in October means you’ll get to explore the town in its fall glory, complete with a walkable downtown, interesting shops, and amazing restaurants.

Start with a delicious breakfast at the historic Blue Benn Diner. From there, bask in the engineering of bygone times at the Silk Road, Paper Mill, and Burt Henry covered bridges.

If you’re into antiques, check out the stores on Main Street. While you’re there, drop by Bennington Museum and marvel at Grandma Moses’ paintings.

Fall foliage fans can hit the Woodford State Park and Lake Shaftsbury State Park for a dose of enchanting landscapes.

31. Kansas City, Missouri

Beyond its infamous BBQ sauce, Kansas City has a lot to offer its visitors in October.

You can get historical at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, or get your groove on at the  American Jazz Museum.

Shop til you drop at the top-tier Country Club Plaza or indulge in the city’s cocktail culture in established distilleries like the Monogram Lounge or J. Rieger & Co.

If you’re a Potterhead (or your kids are!), be sure to book tickets for the Harry Potter Day celebration (October 1st) in Union Station’s Science City!

32. Aspen, Colorado

Planning your next October adventure? Aspen is a fantastic spot for fall fun with beautiful scenery and exciting activities.

Only a few minutes from downtown, you can hike the Hunter Creek Trail surrounded by magnetic aspen trees. Other amazing hikes include Cathedral Lake, Sunnyside Trail, and Tom Blake Trail.

You can also explore the downtown area, drive the Independence Pass, or ride the Silver Queen Gondola.

If you want to do some more fall foliage watching, hit the Marble Mill Site Park and Beaver Lake Reservoir.

33. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Because it has so much to offer, it can be tough to know where to start when visiting the Rocky Mountain National Park.

View the glamorous fall colours as you drive Trail Ridge Road where you’ll pass through the beautiful Fairview Curve and Kawuneeche Valley.

Hiking enthusiasts can cover the Long Pine Lake Trail, Deer Mountain Trail, and Adams Falls Trail. You can even go fishing for trout or watch elks during their dramatic mating ritual.

You can find more breathtaking foliage views at the Forest Canyon Overlook, Alberta Falls, Bear Lake, and Moraine Park.

34. Savannah, Georgia

Spooky vibes, fun events, and a whole lot of fall colours reside in Savannah in October.

Forsyth Park is a great spot to kick back, attend concerts, or have a picnic while admiring golden foliage.

Enjoy the shady oak trees at Chippewa Square, bask in pristine scenery at Skidaway Island State Park, and stroll through Daffin Park with loved ones.

During your visit, you can also check out Plant Riverside’s Oktoberfest, SCAD Film Festival, and Terror Vision Fright Fest.

35. Salem, Massachusetts

If you’re feeling witchy, head to Salem for an unforgettable October trip.

You can learn about the history of the witch trials at the Salem Witch House or tour the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, the Hamilton Hall, the McIntire Historic District, and the Burying Point.

More fun activities include getting a fortune reading at the Pentagram, building your own broom at The Witchery, and going on a ghost hunt via Gallows Hill.

36. North Cascades National Park, Washington  

Highly underrated yet an October gem, North Cascades National Park is a dream come true for backpackers and hikers chasing fall colours.

The Sterling Munro Trail takes you through golden trees to the Picket Range viewpoint where you can see an unreal image of snowy peaks.

Be sure not to miss out on other mesmerising landscapes on Trail of the Cedars, Thunder Knob Trail, and Ladder Creek Falls.

That said, if you’re after a memorable ride, you can cruise the 30 miles of North Cascades Highway with its numerous overlooks of orange foliage.

37. Burlington, Vermont

Fall in Vermont is magical, and downright out of a fairy tale is Burlington!

Start your visit marvelling at the season’s harvest in the city’s Farmers’ Market. Then, drop by Pizzeria Verita for a traditional pie or grab a Vermont-style pizza at American Flatbread.

If you’re into hiking, check out the Five Tree Hike, the Red Rocks Park Loop Trail, or the Ethan Allen Homestead – Peninsula Trail.

You can also climb up Mt. Philo or Camel’s Hump for epic views of majestic fall foliage.

38. Monument Valley, Arizona

The temperature drop courtesy of October makes Monument Valley a delightful trip in the fall.

Right on top of your list should be the famous breathtaking trio: East Mitten Butte, Merrick Butte, and West Mitten Butte.

Another memorable rock formation to check out is Three Sisters. If you head to John Ford’s Point Overlook, you can also admire the dramatic sights of Big Indian and Sentinel Mesa.

If you’re staying at The View hotel, you can enjoy the striking scene of sunrise and sunset.

39. Chicago, Illinois

As the crowds disperse, the Halloween sparks fly, and the changing foliage sprouts, Chicago becomes a hot destination for October visits.

Spotting the fascinating fall colours is an easy mission; just head to Lincoln Park, Cloud Gate, or Lurie Garden.

You also don’t want to miss exploring Millennium Park and Chicago Riverwalk for some memorable moments.

Other fun activities include visiting Navy Pier, attending a Candlelight Concerts event, going on a sweet endeavor at the Museum of Ice Cream, and figuring your way out of a corn maze at the Richardson Adventure Farm.

40. Arches National Park, Utah

Your October trip calendar has to have room for a visit to Utah’s Arches National Park. Fall makes for fantastic weather at the park and the photography opportunities are simply awesome.

Once you arrive, you can kick off with a scenic drive on the 43-mile paved road. It takes you through multiple jaw-dropping landmarks such as Moab Fault, La Sal Mountain Viewpoint, and Park Avenue.

Hikes are also remarkable in Arches National Park, especially the Balance Rock Trail, the Double Arch Trail, The Windows Section Trail, and the Delicate Arch Trail.

Also, don’t miss the chance to enjoy stargazing at the Balanced Rock and the Windows area. It’s mind-blowing!

41. Albuquerque, New Mexico

October in Duke City is a terrific time to plan a visit. It marks the beginning of what the locals call the magical season, with foliage turning golden, temperatures cooling down, and fresh harvest adorning the markets.

Make your way to the Rio Grande and take in the fall colours of the willow trees and cottonwoods lining the neighbourhood and crossing the city centre.

To the east of the city, a short drive will get you to the Sandia Mountains where you can ride the tramway for fascinating views of the surrounding landscapes from 4,000 feet above.

While in Albuquerque, be sure to check out the International Balloon Fiesta; the largest in the world of its kind!

42. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The only National Forest in the Keystone State, Allegheny National Forest just gets more beautiful when rich fall colours cover its 513,000+ acres of hardwood trees.

The Longhouse National Scenic Byway is a must-see drive to soak up the brilliant yellow, scarlet, and orange stretches of foliage.

The 27-mile road passes through Timberdoodle Flats; a birding trail, and Morrison Trail; a 5.3-mile hiking trail. You’ll want to stop at Jakes Rocks and Rimrock Overlook for a striking view of the Allegheny Reservoir.

Also, check out the Scenic Kinuza Loop and the Rock City – Eldred Loop.

43. Flagstaff, Arizona

October in Flagstaff offers visitors a ton of fun, from outdoor recreation to festivals.

You can start your trip by admiring stunning fall colours when hiking trails throughout Lockett Meadow, Kachina Trail, Aspen Corner, the Inner Basin, and Griffith Springs.

Other beautiful foliage spots include Sandy Seep, Mount Humphreys, Campbell Mesa, and Veit Springs Trail.

The Flagstaff Star Party is a must-attend event in October for stargazing enthusiasts. The city’s unique Farmers Market and Oktoberfest also promise plenty of entertainment.

44. Austin, Texas

You may not have time to do everything that Austin has to offer in October, but you’ll enjoy your time for sure!

You can visit Mount Bonnell, Pease Park, Shoal Creek Greenbelt, Colorado River Preserve, or Mayfield Park and Preserve where views of fall colours are as vibrant as ever.

Hiking fans can explore the Ann and Roy Butler Trail or the trails at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. For great camping spots, check out Inks Lake State Park and Emma Long Metropolitan Park.

You can also pick pumpkins at Sweet Berry Farm, get lost in a corn maze at Barton Hill Farms, or befriend some animals at Sweet Eats Fruit Farm.

45. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Your fall break at Gulf Shores can be one for the books, with the colourful sunsets, warm water, and gentle temperatures waiting to greet you.

In October, make sure to check out the Annual National Shrimp Festival for some mouth-watering seafood and family-friendly action.

Fishing enthusiasts can unleash their passion at the Gulf State Fishing Pier while biking fans can cruise through the gorgeous Hugh S. Branyon Trail for a dose of backcountry serenity.

The Alabama Gulf Coast is fantastic for swimming lovers, whereas golfing buffs can play their pick of the 15 courses around the city.

46. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

October is the peak fall foliage season in the Berkshires, so buckle up for some breathtaking scenery!

Lake Mahkeenac is a must-visit spot with pristine waters against a lush forest backdrop. The Santarella Gingerbread House and the Norman Rockwell Museum are also marvellous destinations for fall photography.

Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation is an amazing spot if you want an elevated view of the fall foliage. Also, don’t miss Naumkeag, Hilltop Orchards/Furnace Brook Winery, and the cosy Lee village. 

47. Big Sur, California

You’ll want to come back again and again once you’ve had a taste of California’s Big Sur.

The drive along Highway 1 is a magnificent start for your visit, with one of the most scenic car cruises you can experience in the United States.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are both examples of raw and intense natural beauty, with enchanting views of China Cove, Bird Island, McWay Falls, and Keyhole Arch.

Additional spots you must make time for include the Bixby Creek Bridge, Point Sur Lighthouse, and Limekiln Falls.

48. Maui, Hawaii

Summer isn’t the only season you can make wonderful memories in Maui; fall is also a time for unforgettable experiences.

You can immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture during October’s Festivals of Aloha, visit a pumpkin patch at Kula Country Farms, and treat your palate while attending the annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival.

You can also cruise the Road to Hana for a mesmerizing scenic trip. As for Halloween enthusiasts, the Mardi Gras of the Pacific in Lahaina town is a dream destination for exciting haunting.

49. Charleston, South Carolina

The spooky fall season in Charleston is an ideal option for your October break.

One of the best places to spot changing foliage is the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

You get to marvel at beautiful snapdragons, pansies, sasanqua camellias, and azaleas while touring the estate.

The Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch, Fright Nights, and The Vendue’s rooftop bar are also spots you don’t want to miss.

50. Portland, Oregon

Leaf-crunching relaxation is bound to grace your Portland trip if you plan your visit in October.

Head to Hoyt Arboretum to view the fall foliage of more than 2,300 species of shrubs and trees across 12 miles of hiking trails and 190 acres in the Tualatin Mountains.

For a dose of history, check out the century-old Pittock Mansion in its rural glory. From there, you can hike to Forest Park for panoramic scenery of native fauna and wildlife.

Don’t forget to drop by Sauvie Island for some laid-back fun at sandy beaches and the Japanese Garden for an authentic Asian experience.

51. Stowe, Vermont

Sunkissed trees, a cosy atmosphere, and a wide range of outdoor activities await you at Stowe in October.

Hike the Sunset Rock Trail to see some of the most captivating fall foliage you’ll ever witness. Once you reach the overlook, have a picnic with a birds-eye view of Main Street and Stowe Community Church.

For an even more beautiful sight of fall colours, keep hiking to Mount Mansfield and reward yourself with a lunch at the top. Alternatively, you can get there by driving the Auto Toll Road or riding a gondola.

52. Phoenix, Arizona

October is an excellent chance to enjoy fall colours and activities in Phoenix.

Camelback Mountain sits right in the city’s heart, so be sure to hike it for a panoramic view of Phoenix. The jaw-dropping rock formations at the Superstitions Mountains are also memorable hikes.

Stroll around the downtown area and soak up the culture, passing by the Arizona State Capitol, Arizona State’s campus, and the Phoenix Convention Center.

The Phoenix Zoo is a great place for family-friendly fun, whereas the Phoenix Symphony and Ballet Arizona offer enriching art performances.

53. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Last but not least, don’t let the less famous reputation of Cuyahoga Valley trick you! This underrated park is a gem for fall adventurers.

You can walk the trail to Brandywine Falls and snap a picture of the extremely photogenic work of mother nature, or head to Everett Covered Bridge and bask in its architectural charm.

If you’re one for on-foot exploration, the Ledges trail offers 2.2 miles of rock formations to conquer.

If you prefer biking, cruise through the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and marvel at the changing foliage extending across the entire park’s length.