The 31 Best Fall Vacations in the U.S. to Avoid Big Crowds (and See Some Beautiful Foliage)

• Getting There: 6-hour drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Why We Recommend It: Not too crowded, cooler weather, fall foliage
• Where to Stay: Gasquet House (from $406/night, sleeps 6); Trinidad Cliff House (from $188/night, sleeps 4); Turtle Rocks Oceanfront Inn (from $335/night)

“As a native Californian, I think this is definitely one of the more underrated national parks,” says PureWow associate SEO editor Marissa Wu. “The forests are completely mind-boggling in size and scope—I feel so much awe and wonder standing among the trees.” The Redwoods are always breathtaking, but doubly so in September, when you’ll find ideal temperatures and fewer people. You’ll want to pack some light layers, but that’s one of the best parts of the fall season, right? Rainy season begins in October, so this one is best for an early fall trip when you can skip the crowds and take advantage of the temperatures in the 60s to 70s. The redwoods don’t change colors, but the surrounding trees do, which makes for some seriously beautiful scenery.

• Getting There: 1.25-hour drive from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)
• Why We Recommend It: Not too crowded, national park, cooler weather
• Where to Stay: Sunset Ridge Log Cabin (from $240/night, sleeps 8); Grand Canyon Stargazer (from $131/night, sleeps 2); Yavapai Lodge (from $139/night)

If you want to avoid sweltering heat and heavy crowds, do *not* go to the Grand Canyon in the Summer. June, July and August bring extreme heat and a ton of tourists, and in September, monsoon season means heavy rainfall and less-than-ideal hiking conditions. For the most enjoyable trip, visit in the fall months when kids have gone back to school, crowds are much lighter and the air is a bit cooler. The hiking conditions are perfect in the fall, but keep in mind you will want to stick to the South Rim trails as the North Rim closes in mid-October.

• Getting There: 1.25-hour drive from Bangor International Airport (BGL)
• Why We Recommend It: Less crowds, crisp weather, excellent hikes, incredible fall foliage
• Where to Stay: Madawaska Lake Getaway (from $175/night, sleeps 6); Shelby’s Shangri-La Lakefront Cabin (from $104/night, sleeps 6); The Elmhurst Inn (from $174/night)

With fewer crowds and incredible foliage, fall is the absolute best time to visit Acadia, Maine. “It’s beyond gorgeous in the fall,” says PureWow operations director of branded content, Rachel Gulmi. “I’m not much of a hiker, so we did the loop around Jordan Pond and stopped for their famous popovers. It was seriously beautiful and looked like a painting. Bar Harbor is the cutest town and everyone is really friendly. The food is amazing and you can’t beat the unparalleled Maine foliage.” If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the popular Beehive Loop trail, which leads you up a bit of a rock scramble that is well worth it for the panoramic views you will get at the top. Once you’re finished taking in the jaw dropping scenery, you can explore Bar Harbor’s downtown area, stop in local coffee shops and treat yourself to a well-deserved lobster roll (trust us, it’s basically a requirement while in Maine).

• Getting There: 2-hour drive from Laguardia Airport (LGA)
• Why We Recommend It: Incredible fall foliage, vibrant colors, outdoor activities
• Where to Stay: Poconos Tree House (from $519/night, sleeps 10); Tranquil Chalet (from $135/night, sleeps 6); Inn at Jim Thorpe (inquire for rates)

Located in Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains are known for their beautiful lakes, valleys and forested peaks that *literally* light up in the fall. Head to the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania to visit the Delaware Water Gap and surround yourself with gorgeous, cascading falls and the most breathtaking views. For peak colors, visit in mid-to-late-October.

“I love the Poconos in the fall,” says PureWow senior commerce editor Stephanie Maida. “My friends and I usually rent a big group Airbnb for a weekend in October or November and spend time hiking, pumpkin picking and just sitting around the fire pit surrounded by nature, giving ourselves a nice break from the city. It’s definitely a great place for leaf-peepers to check out the foliage—the mountains paint the perfect fall picture.”

• Getting There: 2-hour drive from Baltimore/Washington International (BWI)
• Why We Recommend It: Fall foliage, cooler weather, rich history
• Where to Stay: Tropical Oasis Townhouse (from $650/night, sleeps 5); Midtown Oasis Condo (from $141/night, sleeps 8); Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City (from $97/night)

As the heat dies down, Maryland’s Eastern Shore becomes a magical and vibrant travel destination, with all the crimson, gold and yellow leaves you can imagine. Come for the foliage but stay for the cozy vibes and rich history. You can also take a trip to the Chesapeake Wine Trail to taste local wines and take part in one of the many seasonal events.

• Getting There: 1-hour drive from Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD/KSHD)
• Why We Recommend It: Fall foliage, apple picking, museums, country charm
• Where to Stay: Cozy Little Spot (from $136/night, sleeps 2); Woodstock Barn Home (from $625/night, sleeps 6); Woodstock Inn & Resort (from $465/night)

For an entire town that looks like a postcard, plan a fall trip to Woodstock, Vermont. Not only is the foliage unmatched, but you’ll feel like you stepped back in time when you stroll through historic Woodstock Village, the most charming neighborhood in downtown Woodstock. While you’re down there, pop into any of the local country shops, restaurants and cafes. Woodstock is home to some beautiful farms, too. Play a round of pumpkin bowling at Billings Farm, sample local cheeses at Sugarbush Farm or head to a local orchard to pick your own apples.

• Getting There: 2-hour drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)
• Why We Recommend It: Excelling hiking, plenty of things to do, beautiful scenery
• Where to Stay: Sedona Yurt (from $109/night, sleeps 2); Red Rock Trail House (from $107/night, sleeps 6); The Wilde Resort and Spa (from $366/night)

Sedona is breathtaking any time of year, but the fall colors and cooler temperatures take this prime hiking and adventuring destination to a whole other level. “Sedona is so gorgeous and definitely worth the trip,” says PureWow vice president of news and entertainment, Philip Mutz. “There are hikes (featuring stunning views) for all levels of adventurers—just make sure to pack sunscreen and water, even in the fall. And be sure to visit the famous Sedona vortexes while you’re there.” If you want to get off your feet, there are a ton of scenic drives with views that are just as great. You can even sign up for a Sedona Pink Jeep tour for an off-road adventure to the most popular Sedona sites. “Sedona holds a special place in my heart since I went there after my wedding,” Gulmi adds. “Highly recommend going in late October if you can’t take the heat (even though it was still very warm during the day!). I had never been to that part of the country before and seeing the red rocks in person was really cool. I also thought the vortexes were not a real thing but turns out they very much are and such a different thing to experience. Dying to go back.”

• Getting There: 3-hour drive from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
• Why We Recommend It: Not too crowded, excellent hiking, ideal weather
• Where to Stay: The Beechwood Suite (from $223/night, sleeps 2); Yosemite Shuteye (from $207/night, sleeps 2); Rush Creek Lodge (from $310/night)

“Yosemite is by far one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been and the weather while I was there last fall was perfection,” says PureWow fashion editor Abby Hepworth. “There are hikes of every level and so much to explore. You can also post up to watch climbers along the famous El Capitan. And while Yosemite is less crowded in the fall than it is in the summer, it’s definitely still a very popular destination. I highly recommend booking everything as early as possible and double checking if you need to apply for permit in advance in order to access all the things you want to see.” October in particular has spectacular hiking conditions and more options for accommodations. Most of the trees are evergreen and won’t change color, but if you do visit in October you’ll likely catch some glimpse of fall colors on the neighboring trees. Colors aside, Yosemite is a must-visit.

• Getting There: Fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)
• Why We Recommend It: Mountains, ideal weather, excellent hiking
• Where to Stay: Downtown Aspen Home (from $999/night, sleeps 10); Aspen Condo (from $830/night, sleeps 6); The Inn at Aspen (from $180/night)

For a mountainous vacation that does have plenty of fall foliage, plan a trip to Aspen, Colorado, where you can take in the vivid colors, snow-capped mountains and cooler temperatures, while taking advantage of thinner crowds and lower costs. Unlike some parts of the Northeast, Aspen’s colors tend to peak in mid-September, so plan for an early fall trip for the most beautiful scenery.

• Getting There: 1.25-hour drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Why We Recommend It: Vineyards, festivals, fall foliage
• Where to Stay: Casita Rosa (from $729/night, sleeps 4); Calistoga Vista (from $863/night, sleeps 8); Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort (from $318/night)

“Having grown up in the San Francisco Bay, I’ve been to Napa Valley a fair number of times, and autumn is always my favorite season,” says Wu. “Even if you don’t love wine, the views are incredible, and I’m always content to simply drive Highway 29 from Napa to Yountville, stopping at my favorite Model Bakery and Castello di Amorosa along the way.” Peak harvest season (or should we say grape stomping season), colorful fall foliage and a plethora of vineyards and festivals make Napa Valley a must-visit destination in the fall months, particularly for wine enthusiasts. Harvest season runs from late August to late October, but the beautiful fall colors tend to last through November. And most importantly, the wine never runs out.

• Getting There: 1.25-hour drive from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Why We Recommend It: Vineyards, family-friendly, apple picking
• Where to Stay: Mattituck Modern Farmhouse (from $285/night, sleeps 4); Cutchogue Bungalow (from $170/night, sleeps 2); Silver Sands Motel and Beach Bungalows (from $277/night)

“I grew up going to the North Fork, and it’s one of my favorite places, especially in the fall,” Gulmi shares. “Yes, it’s super crowded, but it’s such a fun time of year to go apple and pumpkin picking, visit wineries and just hang out.” The North Fork of Long Island is a wine-lover’s dream, and harvest season alone is enough reason to plan a trip this fall. But even if you’re traveling with children—or not everyone in your group is a wino—there are a ton of activities for everyone enjoy. You can head to an orchard or farm for your classic apple picking, pumpkin picking or, of course, cider donuts. Visit in late September or October for peak foliage, and make sure to take in a sunset on the beach while you’re there.

• Getting There: 30-minute drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Why We Recommend It: Family-friendly, warm weather, amusement parks
• Where to Stay: Storey Lake Villa (from $119/night, sleeps 14); Disney Davenport Resort Gem (from $118/night, sleeps 16+); The Grove Resort & Water Park (from $169/night)

“Fall may be the best time of year to visit Orlando, especially if you're interested in visiting the theme parks,” says PureWow vice president of editorial, Candace Davison, who hails from the Sunshine State. “Everyone’s back to school, so the roads (and parks) are less congested, the weather’s a bit cooler—and while, yes, it is hurricane season, it’s pretty far inland, so that area tends to be less affected than the coastlines.” Fall in Orlando is still warm enough to enjoy full days at the pool, but not so hot that you’ll be dripping sweat waiting in line for the newest ride at Disney. There’s something for everyone at the Magic Kingdom, and fall brings a whole extra slew of activities like haunted houses, horror nights and more.

• Getting There: 1.5-hour drive from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Why We Recommend It: Family-friendly, close to the mountains, small-town atmosphere
• Where to Stay: Renovated Schoolhouse (from $176/night, sleeps 5); The 1772 Lefevre Stonehouse Suite (from $129/night, sleeps 3); Mohonk Mountain House (from $1,052/night)

When it comes to picking a family-friendly vacation destination, you need to find a place with a lot to do. In the fall, that means apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, leaf-watching and all the seasonal fall foods. New Paltz checks every one of these boxes, plus it has the quintessential small-town feel, crisp fall weather and endless trails for hiking and adventuring. Stay at Mohonk Mountain House for an extra special treat and the most spectacular views, take a picnic basket to Minnewaska State Park and don’t sleep on the apple cider donuts from Wallkill View Farm, where you’ll also find a corn maze, hayrides and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.

• Getting There: 10-minute drive from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC)
• Why We Recommend It: Scenic drives, affordable, not too crowded
• Where to Stay: Riverton Retreat (from $107/night, sleeps 2); ModernWest Townhouse (from $179/night, sleeps 6); Le Méridien (from $316/night)

There are a number of scenic drives in Salt Lake City that will give you a front row seat to jaw dropping fall colors without needing to break a sweat. But if you do decide to get out of the car, the weather is ideal in the fall, the trails (and the whole city) are significantly less crowded and you can get great deals on hotel rooms. One must-experience drive is the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, which is packed with vibrant colors, waterfalls, canyons and even some wildlife. There are plenty of hiking trails, too, in case the scenery brings out your adventurous side.

• Getting There: 30-minute drive from Cherry Capital Airport (TVC / KTVC)
• Why We Recommend It: Scenic drives, not too crowded, plenty of things to do
• Where to Stay: Pineview Place (from $325/night, sleeps 6); Suttons Bay Getaway (from $225/night, sleeps 5); The Sylvan Bed and Breakfast (from $131/night)

Also known as the M-22 Color Tour, this popular drive through Michigan’s Benzie and Leelanau counties is home to some of the most stunning fall views you’ll ever see. The road runs for more than 100 miles from Traverse City to Northport, but any portion of it will give you an extreme dose of fall foliage. There are plenty of stops you can make along the way, whether you’re in the mood for some hot chocolate, a fall-inspired snack or for a full afternoon of apple picking and activities at one of the many Michigan farms.

• Getting There: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• Why We Recommend It: Walkable, beautiful gardens, great for football, family-friendly
• Where to Stay: Normandy Park Bungalow (from $214/night, sleeps 2); South Lake Union Industrial Loft (from $131/night, sleeps 4); The Fairmont Olympic Hotel (from $283/night)

“Seattle is such a fun city with plenty to do for all ages and interests,” Hepworth says. “Even though it’s a super touristy spot, Pike Place Market is genuinely fun to walk through, and the surrounding area of the city has tons of great food to explore. On the flip side, I recommend skipping visiting the OG Starbucks (it’s the same as what you’re getting at home and the line is insane) in favor of hitting up one of the numerous other local coffee shops for a more genuine PNW coffee experience. If you can swing it, a day trip to Mount Rainier is a must—the views are incredible, even just along the drive, and there are hikes of all levels to get your outdoor fix.” Autumn season brings sunny skies, perfect crisp temperatures and minimal rain, making it perfect for a weekend of exploring. Check out a local brewery for the best selection of pumpkin beer or take in the fall colors at the Japanese Gardens or Washington Park Arboretum. If you’re a sports fan (or even if you’re not), catch a Seahawks game for another classic fall pastime.

• Getting There: Fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Why We Recommend It: Walkable, excellent cultural scene, fewer crowds
• Where to Stay: Haight Ashbury Redwood Retreat (from $250/night, sleeps 2); Painted Lady Studio (from $243/night, sleeps 2); Fairmont San Francisco (from $264/night)

“Whenever I step foot in this city, I feel so much nostalgia,” Wu says. “Having grown up in the Bay Area, I have a lot of fond memories with my family spending weekends at Fisherman’s Wharf, eating our weight in ice cream at Ghirardelli Square, running around Chrissy Field Beach, biking across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and exploring the Palace of Fine Arts.” Spend a fall weekend in San Francisco and enjoy days filled with farmer’s markets, street fairs and football games. Fall is also the best time of year to cross the Golden Gate Bridge off your bucket list, since the fog—and the crowds—has cleared. From beaches to parks to an annual Greek food festival, you’ll have no shortage of things to do and see.

• Getting There: Fly into JFK, EWR, or LGA
• Why We Recommend It: Walkable, excellent cultural scene, plenty of things to do
• Where to Stay: Brooklyn Loft (from $209/night, sleeps 4); The Marlton Hotel (from $440/night); The Mark Hotel (from $1,456/night)

PureWow editors are likely to include NYC on any travel list, but there’s something about New York City in the fall that just hits differently. After months of summer, the air finally loses its heaviness and gains the perfect level of crispness that has us all reaching for a pumpkin spice latte. You might be surprised by the amount of fall colors you can find in New York City, and there’s obviously no shortage of things to do. Stroll through Central Park, go on a walking food tour in downtown Manhattan, head to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens or visit during late October and check out the famous Halloween decorations on West 69th street on the Upper West Side.

• Getting There: Fly into O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Why We Recommend It: Walkable, excellent cultural scene, laid-back vibe
• Where to Stay: Irving Park Apartment (from $121/night, sleeps 3); Logan Square Condo (from $125/night, sleeps 4); Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile (from $256/night)

We know Chicagoans live for the summer months, but don’t miss out on fall in Chicago either. It may be brief, but it makes the winter months worth it. The weather can be hit or miss, but visit during September or October and you’re bound to get at least one beautiful fall day. The city is walkable, making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway without a car. Immerse yourself in Chicago culture with a visit to one of the many museums or galleries or by hopping on the famous architecture boat tour. After a long day of walking, indulge in a deep-dish pizza or some of the best Italian food you’ll ever have at Monteverde in the West Loop. If you do have a car, there are a ton of great fall activities in neighboring suburbs, too.

• Getting There: Fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS)
• Why We Recommend It: Romantic vibes, fall festivals, walkable
• Where to Stay:  Charleston Boho Bungalow (from $177/night, sleeps 2); Cannonborough Historic Home (from $198/night, sleeps 4); The Vendue (from $353/night)

“Charleston is outrageously charming and a great place to explore,” Davison says. “Whatever you do, don’t leave without having lunch or dinner at Home Team—it's some of the best BBQ in the area.” While it doesn’t have the same fall foliage as some of the other destinations on this list, Charleston is full of charm, and there’s a slight crispness to the air that makes it one of the best fall vacations in the U.S. Most importantly, the fall festivals will give you all the cozy feels. You may be eating southern BBQ instead of cider donuts, but if you’re craving a traditional fall experience, you can join a pub tour or take your own walking tour, and you’re bound to fall in love with this city.

• Getting There: Fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
• Why We Recommend It: Excellent food scene, vibrant history, fall festivals
• Where to Stay: The Cozy Corrales Cottage (from $120/night sleeps 2); Desert Mountain House (from $293/night, sleeps 6); Hotel Chaco (from $231/night)

You might have an idea that New Mexico is known for its red and green chiles, but did you know fall is actually chile roasting season? You’ll find green roasted chiles on the menu at nearly every local restaurant in the fall, and *trust us* they are delicious. Aside from the excellent food scene, the fall festivals in Albuquerque are giving major Gilmore Girls vibes—notably, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, where thousands of balloons of all shapes and sizes lift into flight for all to watch.

• Getting There: 1-hour drive from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
• Why We Recommend It: Excellent food scene, vibrant history, museums and art galleries
• Where to Stay: Happy Ram (from $268/night, sleeps 4); Skyhouse (from $255/night, sleeps 4); Inn on the Alameda (from $241/night)

Speaking of festivals in New Mexico, Santa Fe is home to a ton of fall activities, including the Wine & Chile Fiesta in September, the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Weekend Celebration in October and plenty more. The weather is great and there are activities for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a foodie, an art-lover, an outdoor adventurer or you just want to spend a weekend relaxing. “Don’t sleep on visiting one of the many hot spring spas in the area," says PureWow executive editor Alexia Dellner. “I recently checked out Ojo Spa nestled in the La Cienega Valley and it was so relaxing and gorgeous.”

• Getting There: 1-hour drive from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
• Why We Recommend It: Romantic getaway, charming, not too crowded
• Where to Stay: Cathedral View Apartment (from $173/night, sleeps 2); The Violet Villa (from $228/night, sleeps 5); Eliza Thompson House (from $229/night)

If you want a romantic fall weekend with your partner, look no further than Savannah, where the weather is perfect, the crowds are lighter and the Southern charm cannot be beat.

“Savannah is charming old Southern architecture and tradition alongside young hip arty young people, thanks to the posh and vital community at Savannah College of Art and Design,” notes PureWow senior editor Dana Dickey. “Fall is the ideal time to visit since it’s cooling down and the city’s historic ghost story subculture—tours, haunted houses and more—moves to the foreground for Halloween.”

Stroll through the Victorian District or the Starland District, take in the sights and pop into some of the local shops, galleries and incredible restaurants. Pick up some food and lounge in Forsyth Park for a picnic or dine at the famous (and oh-so-romantic) Olde Pink House.

• Getting There: Fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Why We Recommend It: Great for weekend trips, historic, plenty of things to do
• Where to Stay: Charlestown Home (from $385/night, sleeps 5); The Verb Hotel (from $332/night); Fairmont Copley Plaza (from $358/night)

“Having gone to school in Boston, I can confidently deem it one of the best fall vacations in the U.S. Any other time of year, I do a hard pass. (Swampy summers, rainy springs and blizzard winters, no thanks.) But fall? The temperatures are perfect, there’s plenty of sunlight, orchards are bursting with apples and the air is crisp,” Wu says. Locals love Boston in the fall for its cooler (but not yet frigid) temps, beautiful colors, lighter crowds and quintessential fall activities, like cider donuts, football games and brewery tours. Book a trip this fall and experience the rich history and charm Boston has to offer. The weather is perfect for strolling the Freedom Trail or the Boston Public Garden or meandering down the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill with a cup of hot cider in your favorite chunky sweater. “Boston in fall usually has beautiful weather, and because it's essentially overrun with college students returning to campus, there are usually tons of cool events going on throughout the city,” Hepworth adds. “Try to book your accommodations early to avoid competing with visiting parents, and take advantage of the subway lines to easily get from end to end to maximize the number of things you see.”

• Getting There: 40-minute drive from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Why We Recommend It: Excellent cultural scene, laid-back vibe, historic
• Where to Stay: Salem Historic Home (from $247/night, sleeps 5); Ravens Hollow (from $196/night, sleeps 4); The Salem Inn (from $269/night)

“Salem is THE place to visit in fall,” declares PureWow assistant editor Delia Curtis. “It’s got everything you could want during the autumnal, spooky season, as the town is known for its association with the Salem witch trials. Salem is full of cobbled hills and alleyways lined with gorgeous homes dating back a couple of centuries. The foliage is off the charts, so you’ll be sure to get incredible photos awash in red and orange. You’ll find everything from quaint coffee shops like Gulu Gulu Cafe or the Ugly Mug Cafe to shops that cater to filling a witch’s arsenal with crystals and herbs like Haus Witch or The Coven’s Cottage. Get your tarot cards or astrological chart read, stomp through any of the many graveyards, saunter through The Witch House, or post up for a brew in one of their many local watering holes. My pro-tip as a Bostonian is to visit in the off-season if you’re not specifically looking to go around Halloween. Try for August or September to enjoy the fall activities without the massive crowds, or do and envelop yourself in the Jack-O-Lantern-filled joy of spooky season. You might even see a hearse at the local Dunkin Donuts like I did as a kid. Plus, it’s also right on the water and within driving or train distance from many beaches as well as Boston, so a summer visit is also worth the trip.”

• Getting There: 30-minute drive from Westchester County Airport (HPN)
• Why We Recommend It: Excellent cultural scene, spooky vibes, charming
• Where to Stay: Vintage Cottage (from $274/night, sleeps 4); Hudson River Bungalow (from $153/night, sleeps 4); Castle Hotel and Spa (from $287/night)

Yes, Sleepy Hollow is a real place. TBD on whether it’s *actually* haunted, though, but you can plan a visit to the charming town this fall and find out for yourself. Don your favorite fall boots and scarf and spend your days strolling through the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery or visiting the Lighthouse or Philipsburg Manor. No matter how you spend your time, you’ll definitely feel all the spooky fall energy. “Sleepy Hollow is a must-visit for fall lovers (and lovers of all things spooky),” Mutz says. “I’ve been half a dozen times and it never gets old. There are cute shops and restaurants, but obviously the biggest draw is the town’s connection to the Washington Irving tale. I love taking a stroll through the graveyard, visiting *that* bridge and even making time for a waterfront bite in nearby Tarrytown.”

• Getting There: 1-hour drive from Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
• Why We Recommend It: Charming, historic, laid-back vibe
• Where to Stay: Tiny Red Barn on the Reservoir (from $335/night, sleeps 6); Hutch’s Bluff (from $231/night, sleeps 6); Marriott’s Manor Club at Ford’s Colony (from $120/night)

While we’re on the subject of history and charm, Williamsburg, Virginia needs to be on the top of your travel list this fall. Known as the largest living history museum in the U.S., Colonial Williamsburg is the highlight of this city, which is also home to the historic College of William & Mary, Freedom Park and the Williamsburg Tasting Trail, with a selection of breweries, wineries and distilleries. In the fall, you can join in on the fun at any of the many festivals, market days and spooky shows or haunted houses around Halloween.

• Getting There: Fly into Key West International Airport (EYW)
• Why We Recommend It: Proximity to the beach, great weather, family-friendly
• Where to Stay: Awai’s Floating Villa (from $475/night, sleeps 4); Hidden Beach Condo (from $625/night, sleeps 2); Margaritaville Beach House (from $

If you’re looking for straight-up beach vacation, Key West is the spot for you this fall. The weather is still warmer than it is in the rest of the U.S., but cool enough that you can spend your full day outside without getting uncomfortable. This is the ultimate fall relaxation getaway for couples or families. “Key West is incredible year-round, but I love it in the fall for its walkability (without as much sweating) and that it’s still warm enough to enjoy the water,” Davison raves. “Go on a kayaking tour of the mangroves, then finish the day with a ghost tour or a Hemingway Daiquiri at Papa Pilar's Rum Distillery.

• Getting There: 15-minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Why We Recommend It: Warm weather option, festivals, fewer crowds
• Where to Stay: Garden D’Eden (from $184/night, sleeps 9); Scottsdale Old Town Home (from $539/night, sleeps 10); Boulders Resort and Spa (from $165/night)

There’s never a bad time for a warm-weather vacation, and fall in Scottsdale is perfect for days at the pool, hiking or outdoor dining. Dickey says, “If you can’t quite bear to let go of the warmth and sporty outdoor fun of summer just because it’s September and beyond, head to Scottsdale, where the temperatures are in the 80s through October.” There are also a ton of festivals and farmer’s markets this time of year, and you’ll have no trouble filling your time.

• Getting There: Fly into Lihue Airport (LIH)
• Why We Recommend It: Proximity to the beach, plenty of things to do, great hiking trails
• Where to Stay: Cottage in the Crater (from $465/night, sleeps 4); The Surfshack (from $550/night, sleeps 5); Koloa Landing Resort (from $628/night)

“Fall is the experienced globetrotter’s favorite time to visit Kauai, since they know they’ll have the lush tropical rainforests of the Garden Isle all to themselves in this travel lull between peak tourism summer and the holiday rush,” Dickey says. “It’s easier to get a tee time at Princeville or Poipu courses; you’ll be able to hike the Na Pali Coast in a meditative state and there’s a chocolate and coffee festival at the end of October highlighting the island’s rich crops of cacao and coffee.”

Want equal parts beach and adventure? There’s no better place for that than Kauai. Fall is shoulder season (the time between peak travel seasons), so you’ll catch fewer crowds and better deals but won’t be stuck in all-day rainstorms. Enjoy the fresh island food, lounge on one of the beautiful beaches or take an ATV tour to let your adventurous side shine. You’re not going to be leaf-watching or eating cider donuts, but you will have an amazing vacation nonetheless.

• Getting There: 3-hour drive from New York City
• Why We Recommend It: Fewer crowds, wellness-focused experiences, proximity to the beach
• Where to Stay: Ditch Plains Family Beach House (from $1,650/night, sleeps 8); Sharkey Cottage (from $300/night, sleeps 2); Montauk Yacht Club (from $735/night)

It’s no secret people flock to Montauk in the summer—but the true traveler hack is visiting in the fall, when the crowds begin to thin but the weather is still optimal. Beach lovers and wellness fanatics alike will love the array of activities, such as fitness classes, shopping, public and private beaches, and hiking trails. Drink beer at the Montauk Brewing Company, plan a self-care day at Gurney’s Spa, or visit the Montauk Lighthouse. However you spend your time, Montauk is the perfect relaxing getaway with plenty of fall foliage to enjoy. “Montauk in the fall is amazing. Most of the uppity summer crowds are gone and you really feel that classic and calm Montauk energy,” Gulmi says. “There's also nothing like sitting in a beach chair enjoying the warm sun and listening to the waves crash on a crisp fall day.”