Best U.S. Travel Destinations in October
October is a great time to plan your next travel adventure. Not only are the summer crowds gone, but the weather is also typically pleasant for outdoor fun. Here is a look at some of the best October travel destinations throughout the U.S.
Burlington, Vermont
There is a reason that so many people flock to New England for the fall season. Cool and crisp weather pairs with an explosion of fall colors to create a wonderland. Start your tour of this corner of the country with a visit to Burlington, Vermont. Nestled on the banks of Lake Champlain in the northwestern corner of the state, this college town is the perfect October destination.
Burlington is best known for its famous apple orchards, a harvest that peaks in October. Good spots to consider include Shelburne Orchards, Hackett's Orchard, and Allenholm Farm. Hiking enthusiasts will love hitting the trails along the Burlington Bike Path, an eight-mile trail that snakes along the waterfront. Be sure to leave time to visit the Burlington Farmers Market as you are checking out the fall foliage in this idyllic setting.
Boise, Idaho
The state capitol of Idaho is quickly earning a reputation as one of the best travel destinations in the western U.S. Located in the southwestern edge of the state, Boise is an outdoor lover's paradise, combined with a cultured urban destination. The Boise River Greenbelt winds 25 miles along the river, taking you past the heart of the downtown area, through the campus of Boise State University, and into several public parks.
The bustling downtown dining and entertainment district is a great place to get a bite to eat or enjoy a night out on the town. Boise has a vibrant foodie scene along with plentiful breweries. Sports fans will want to time their October trip on a weekend when the Boise State Broncos are playing a home football game.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
All eyes are on the skies above Albuquerque during October for the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The week-long festival features dazzling displays of hot air balloons soaring over the city, fireworks, concerts, and drone light shows. Visitors can even book their own hot air balloon rides, offering eye-popping sunrise and sunset views of the desert landscape.
You can also choose to take the one-hour road trip to Santa Fe while in the region, another city worthy of an October trip. A new building opening at the famous New Mexico Museum of Art will delight those looking for a more cultured trip. Pleasant weather makes this an ideal month to discover all of New Mexico's natural beauty.
Yakima, Washington
Yakima is more than just a funny name. The Yakima Valley grows about 75% of all of the hops in the U.S., making this city in central Washington home to some of the best hoppy beers in the world. The Fresh Hop Ale Festival in October lets you honor the crop with a pint or two of local beer.
You do not need to be a beer drinker to appreciate Yakima. The city also boasts over 90 wineries, along with several distilleries and cideries. Temperatures hover in the 60s for highs in October with plentiful amounts of sunshine. A vibrant downtown area is walkable and flush with dining and shopping opportunities.
Zion National Park, Utah
While the country's national and state parks become congested during the busy summer travel season, this is not the case in the fall. Zion National Park is a true beauty, encompassing the grandeur of Zion Canyon. In addition to fewer tourists, this time of the year also offers more pleasant temperatures when compared to the sizzling summer weather.
There is no shortage of outdoor activities at Zion. Hiking, biking, and fishing are all great options while visiting this national gem. The park is also distinguished for its stellar stargazing opportunities, becoming a certified dark sky park in 2021. Visitors can enhance their stay by booking one of the glamping tents located at Open Sky Zion, featuring glass ceilings to gaze up at the night sky.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Located just 90 minutes from Washington, D.C, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, feels like another world when compared to the hustle and bustle of the nation's capital. The 19th-century town is dropped into the Appalachian Mountains, boasting sweeping views of the fall foliage. The seasonal ghost tours and spooky atmosphere make this a fun destination when Halloween is around the corner.
Hikers will want to make time to make a trek on the Maryland Heights Trail. History buffs will dive into the artifacts housed at the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. There is something for everyone in this charming town.
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