The leaves are changing color, and the weather is getting cooler; you know what that means? Fall is here!
Saying goodbye to the hot weather feels good, but that is not the only reason to be excited; fall is also a great time to travel. Why, might you ask? Well, you can find cheaper rates and fewer crowds as schools are reopening, and work is picking up its pace. It is also great to finally escape the summer heat and enjoy the cooler weather.
So if you are lucky enough to be off work and are searching for locations to visit during this time of the year, there are plenty of options in the United States. There is something for everyone, from scenic mountain getaways to bustling city destinations. Below we will talk about six of the most popular vacation spots to visit in the fall.
- The Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular tourist destination in the United States. Though The Great Smoky Mountains are stunning year-round, fall is when they are truly at their most magical. You can go camping, hiking, and exploring one of the oldest mountain ranges in the United States with your family for your fall vacation.
Towards the end of September and the beginning of October, the leaves on the trees change to vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds as the weather cools. The fall foliage is the most spectacular around the middle of October and the beginning of November. Fall is also peak rush season in The Smokys, so book your accommodation in advance, especially if you want to stay in a cabin, as the Smoky Mountain luxury cabins get booked pretty quickly.
- The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most favorite vacation spots in the United States, and for a good reason. It is located in Arizona, and this national park is a sight to behold. The canyon is massive, and the views of the layered red rocks are breathtaking.
Temperatures at the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona vary greatly from season to season. While snow is possible in the winter and early spring, the summer is when most people choose to visit because of the pleasant temperatures. However, daytime highs in the fall are usually between 50 and 60 degrees, making it a pleasant time to travel. As a desert region, the Grand Canyon may have cool evenings, making a campfire and some s’mores a delightful way to pass the time.
The fall season also has the perfect conditions for hiking and trekking the infamous trails The Grand Canyon offers. The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly a great choice if you want to visit a place to escape the heat and enjoy some stunning scenery.
- Yellowstone National Park
The Yellowstone National Park extends across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho and is a renowned vacation spot in the US during the fall season. The park is quite famous for its geothermal features, which include geysers and hot springs. In addition, you can enjoy various activities, such as sightseeing, fishing, hiking, and biking.
Yellowstone is also quite known for its wildlife. You may encounter animals such as Elks or Bison on your trails, so you must ensure you follow all the safety protocols to prevent yourself from any harm or danger. Visiting Yellowstone in the fall benefits you from enjoying cooler weather and seeing the transition between the summer and fall seasons.
- Kauai Island
Kauai, also known as “The Garden Isle,” is a magnificent Hawaiian island known for its abundance of lush, rich lands. This includes large tropical rainforests, breathtaking mountains, stunning beaches, and beautiful attractions like the Waimea Canyon.
Visit this beautiful island in September or October for the best weather, the lowest prices, and the fewest crowds. It just so happens that certain times of the year also boast ideal conditions for sightseeing. Because most children are still in school, making family vacations more challenging, certain times of year see fewer visitors. So take advantage of the low prices and fewer crowds by planning your trip for this shoulder season.
- Boston
Boston is an excellent option if you want to visit a unique and vibrant place during the fall season. Boston city comes alive during this time of year with all the different festivals and events. It is also home to various historical sites and iconic landmarks, such as the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park. The cool fall weather is also perfect for walking or biking around and exploring all the city offers. You can explore the city’s scenic parks, cafes, and restaurants. Boston can be on your fall bucket list whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a more extended vacation.
- San Francisco
San Francisco is a popular vacation destination all year round. However, there are many added advantages to visiting San Francisco in the fall. The weather is mild and perfect for visiting the city by the bay. You can stroll down many infamous and iconic landmarks in the country, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, without bumping into many people as you would otherwise during peak travel seasons. The weather is also perfect for enjoying long strolls in San Francisco’s parks without feeling too hot.
Apart from this, you can explore world-class museums if you like to discover art and history, or you can take in the stunning view from the Twin Peaks. If you are looking for a great place to visit this fall, do not forget to add San Francisco to your list!
Final Thoughts
There are many popular vacation destinations to choose from when planning a trip during the fall season. If you are looking for a scenic mountain getaway, you can opt for The Smokys or the Grand Canyon. However, if you want to escape the noisy city life, you can opt for Hawaii’s peaceful Kauai Island. The best thing about the United States is that you can easily find a destination that fits your needs. With cooler weather and cheaper rates, the fall is an ideal time to travel with your friends, family, or partner!
