14 Good Places To Visit In October In Usa

October is a magical time to explore the United States, with comfortable temperatures, vibrant fall foliage, and fewer crowds at many popular destinations. From coastal retreats to mountain getaways, here's a comprehensive guide to the best places to visit in October across America.

1. Vermont, New England – Good Places To Visit In October In Usa

I think this New England state is one of the best places to visit in october usa! Located in the northeastern corner of the country, Vermont became one of my favorite best places in the us to visit in october with its charming small towns, covered bridges, rolling hills, and the most spectacular fall foliage you'll ever see.

I found that the state had a quaint, rustic vibe with unspoiled scenery. I loved the breathtaking autumn colors, scenic byways, maple syrup farms, apple orchards, and cozy country inns. I found the accomodation ranged from historic B&Bs and charming inns to luxury mountain resorts, giving it a warm, authentic appeal!

Summer is nice, but I visited in October to take advantage of the peak fall foliage and harvest season activities. It was amazing to have some scenic spots almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the countryside, though mornings and evenings were quite cool, so I also packed warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Woodstock Inn & Resort – I especially enjoyed their farm-to-table dining, the cozy fireplaces, and the perfect village location!
• Taking a drive along Route 100 and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage with red, orange, and yellow leaves painting the landscape.
• Exploring the charming town of Stowe without the winter ski crowds – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Visiting local farmers' markets and apple orchards, making this one of the best places to visit in october in usa for food enthusiasts.
• Touring authentic maple syrup sugarhouses, one of the places to visit in october in the us that offers a true taste of Vermont's heritage.

2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

I'm a big fan of this national park which is located along the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with misty mountains, diverse forests, rushing streams, abundant wildlife, and spectacular fall colors that make it one of the best places to visit in october in the us.

I going on a mountain adventure here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for fall – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from scenic drives and hiking to wildlife viewing and exploring nearby towns.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a cabin porch before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this natural wonderland had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Blackberry Farm – I loved staying in their fun luxury cottages, the trendy farm-to-table dining, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a trip on the Newfound Gap Road and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking kaleidoscope of fall colors from scenic overlooks.
• Hiking to Clingmans Dome where the forest transforms into a sea of red, orange, and gold – I practically had some trails all to myself!
• Exploring the charming town of Gatlinburg with its mountain culture and crafts, making this one of the best places to travel in october in the us.
• Spotting wildlife like black bears and elk preparing for winter, one of the best places in america to visit in october for nature lovers.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

The vibrant mountain city completely charmed me! Located in western North Carolina, Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is definitely one of the best us cities to visit in october with its perfect blend of natural beauty, arts, culture, and culinary excellence.

I took a break here during October and I found the weather was crisp but not too cold, and the fall colors were at their peak. I also loved that it was the perfect time to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway with fewer tourists than summer but before winter weather makes driving challenging!

There are also fantastic activities happening this month! I loved exploring the historic Biltmore Estate with the beautiful gardens showing off their fall colors as well as the vibrant downtown arts district and farm-to-table restaurants my favorites!

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Omni Grove Park Inn – I especially enjoyed their mountain views, the historic architecture, and the amazing sunset terrace!
• Taking a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage from numerous overlooks.
• Exploring the thriving arts scene in the River Arts District, making this one of the best places to go in october in usa for culture lovers.
• Dining at innovative farm-to-table restaurants featuring seasonal harvest ingredients – I couldn't get enough of the local apple and pumpkin dishes!
• Visiting the historic Biltmore Estate where the gardens and grounds were especially beautiful with autumn colors, one of the places to visit in the us in october that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty.

4. Salem, Massachusetts

I think this historic coastal town is one of the best places to visit in october usa! Located in Massachusetts just north of Boston, Salem becomes one of the best places to visit in october in the us when it transforms into the Halloween capital of America with its month-long Haunted Happenings festival.

I found that the town had a perfect blend of spooky and charming vibes with unspoiled historic architecture. I loved the breathtaking witch trial memorials, haunted attractions, cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and vibrant Halloween atmosphere. I found the accomodation ranged from historic inns and boutique hotels to cozy B&Bs, giving it a quaint, New England appeal!

Summer is nice, but I visited in October to take advantage of the Halloween festivities and fall weather. It was amazing to experience the town when it's at its most atmospheric! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the historic sites, though evenings could be chilly, so I also packed warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Hawthorne Hotel – I especially enjoyed their historic charm, the rumored haunted rooms, and the perfect downtown location!
• Taking a Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking historic buildings illuminated at night.
• Exploring the Salem Witch Museum where I learned about the tragic 1692 witch trials – one of the best places to go in october in usa for history buffs.
• Attending the Official Salem Witches' Halloween Ball, making this one of the best places to visit in october in usa for Halloween enthusiasts.
• Visiting the House of Seven Gables and other historic sites, one of the places to visit in the us in october that offers a perfect blend of history and seasonal atmosphere.

5. Napa Valley, California

The wine country paradise completely won me over with its October charm! Located in northern California about an hour from San Francisco, Napa Valley is one of the best places in america to visit in october when the grape harvest is in full swing and vineyards turn golden.

I took a break here during october and I found the weather was warm but not too intense, and there were fewer tourists than the summer. I also loved that it was harvest season, so I could enjoy special wine tastings, crush parties, and vineyard tours when the valley is most alive!

There are also fantastic activities happening this month! I loved experiencing the hot air balloon rides at sunrise with the beautiful vineyards showing off their fall colors as well as the vibrant harvest festivals and farm-to-table dinners my favorites!

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Auberge du Soleil – I loved staying in their fun luxury cottages, the trendy restaurant with valley views, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking golden vineyards from above.
• Participating in a grape stomping experience at a local winery, making this one of the best places to visit in october usa for couples seeking unique memories.
• Dining at farm-to-table restaurants featuring seasonal harvest ingredients – I couldn't get enough of the fresh, local cuisine paired with exceptional wines!
• Exploring the charming towns of St. Helena and Yountville with their upscale shops and galleries, one of the places to go in october in usa that combines luxury and natural beauty.

6. Mount Desert Island, Maine

I'm a big fan of this coastal paradise which is located off the Maine coastline in the northeastern United States. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with dramatic rocky shorelines, pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountains, and the crown jewel – Acadia National Park.

I going on a crisp New England adventure here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for winter – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and scenic drives to wildlife watching and photography.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a harbor view before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this natural wonderland had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Bar Harbor Inn – I especially enjoyed their oceanfront location, the Shore Path access, and the cozy fireplace lounges!
• Taking a drive along the Park Loop Road and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage with fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.
• Hiking to the summit of Cadillac Mountain where I watched the sunrise – one of the first places in the US to see the morning light and one of the best places to visit in october in the us for panoramic views.
• Biking the historic Carriage Roads built by the Rockefeller family, making this one of the where to visit in america in october for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Exploring the charming town of Bar Harbor with its seafood restaurants and boutique shops, one of the best places to travel in october in the us that offers a perfect blend of nature and small-town charm.

7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

I'm a big fan of this mountain paradise which is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with spectacular fall foliage, scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and the perfect escape from city life that makes it one of the best places in the us to visit in october.

I going on a crisp mountain adventure here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for winter – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from scenic drives and hiking to wildlife viewing and photography.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a mountain view before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this natural wonderland had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Skyland Resort – I loved staying in their fun mountain view rooms, the trendy dining room with panoramic vistas, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a drive along the 105-mile Skyline Drive and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage from numerous overlooks.
• Hiking the challenging Old Rag Mountain trail where I was rewarded with 360-degree views of autumn colors – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Exploring the Stony Man Trail, one of the best places to visit in october in the us for easy hiking with spectacular views.
• Spotting wildlife like deer and black bears preparing for winter, making this one of the best places to travel in the usa in october for nature enthusiasts.

8. Zion National Park, Utah

The vibrant red rock wonderland completely won me over with its October charm! Located in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park is one of the best places to visit in october usa when the summer crowds have dispersed and the scorching temperatures have given way to perfect hiking weather.

I took a break here during october and I found the weather was warm during the day but pleasantly cool in evenings, and there were fewer tourists than the summer. I also loved that it was easier to get shuttle bus tickets, so I could enjoy the park's most popular attractions without the crushing crowds!

There are also fantastic activities happening this month! I loved experiencing the incredible stargazing opportunities with the beautiful constellations like Perseus, Cassiopeia, Andromeda, Pegasus, and Aquarius visible in the clear night sky as well as the vibrant fall colors and wildlife sightings my favorites!

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Open Sky Zion Resort – I loved staying in their fun luxury glamping tents with clear ceiling bedrooms, the trendy star gazing rooms, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking an e-bike tour through Zion Canyon and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking Navajo sandstone formations without the summer crowds.
• Hiking to Angels Landing where I enjoyed panoramic views of the canyon – one of the best places in america to visit in october for adventure seekers.
• Experiencing the incredible stargazing in this certified dark sky park, making this one of the where to go in october in usa for astronomy enthusiasts.
• Exploring the Narrows with comfortable water temperatures and fewer people, one of the places to visit in october in usa that offers a unique hiking experience through a slot canyon.

9. Aspen, Colorado

I think this mountain paradise is one of the best places to visit in october usa! Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen becomes one of the best places in america to visit in october when its namesake trees transform into a sea of golden yellow, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle against the blue mountain sky.

I found that the town had a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and luxury with unspoiled alpine scenery. I loved the breathtaking fall foliage, world-class restaurants, boutique shopping, and abundant outdoor activities. I found the accomodation ranged from luxury mountain resorts and historic hotels to cozy lodges and vacation rentals, giving it a sophisticated, alpine appeal!

Summer is crowded and winter is for skiing, so I visited in october in usa to take advantage of the stunning fall colors and fewer tourists. It was amazing to have some hiking trails almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the mountains, though mornings and evenings were quite cool, so I also packed warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Hotel Jerome – I especially enjoyed their historic charm, the cozy J-Bar with its mining-era ambiance, and the perfect downtown location!
• Taking a jeep tour through the alpine backcountry and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking golden aspen groves against the mountain backdrop.
• Visiting the iconic Maroon Bells, one of the best places to visit in october in the us for photography, where I captured perfect reflections in Maroon Lake.
• Horseback riding through the Rockies with the golden aspen leaves creating a magical canopy overhead – I practically had some trails all to myself!
• Stand-up paddleboarding along the Colorado River, making this one of the places to visit in october in usa for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unique fall experiences.

10. Cape May, New Jersey

The quaint Victorian seaside town completely charmed me! Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is one of the best places to visit in october in usa when the summer crowds have departed but before the winter chill sets in.

I took a break here during october in the us and I found the weather was crisp but still pleasant, and there were far fewer tourists than the summer. I also loved that it was the perfect time to visit in october the beaches, historic district, and seasonal festivities without the crushing crowds!

There are also fantastic activities happening this month! I loved exploring the Victorian Historic District with the beautiful architecture showing off against the backdrop of fall colors as well as the vibrant Halloween-themed events and ghost tours my favorites!

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Angel of the Sea – I loved staying in their fun Victorian-style rooms, the trendy afternoon tea service, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking leisurely strolls along Jackson Street and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking Victorian “painted ladies” against the autumn leaves.
• Experiencing the spectacular October sunsets on the beach, making this one of the best places to visit in october usa for couples seeking romantic moments.
• Dining at fresh seafood restaurants featuring seasonal harvest ingredients – I couldn't get enough of the local oysters and pumpkin-spiced desserts!
• Joining a ghost tour of Cape May's supposedly haunted Victorian mansions, one of the where to visit in america in october for those seeking spooky seasonal fun.

11. Austin, Texas

I'm a big fan of this vibrant capital city which is located in central Texas. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with live music, outdoor activities, cultural events, incredible food, and the perfect October weather that makes it one of the best us cities to visit in october.

I going on a warm Texas sun here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for winter – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from music festivals and outdoor adventures to culinary explorations and cultural events.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a swimming pool before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this dynamic city had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Hotel San José – I especially enjoyed their courtyard pool, the vibrant South Congress location, and the perfect blend of minimalist and eclectic design!
• Attending the Austin City Limits Music Festival and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking performances and festival atmosphere at Zilker Park.
• Kayaking on Lady Bird Lake with perfect October temperatures – one of the best places to go in october in usa for outdoor urban adventures.
• Witnessing the famous bat colony emerge from Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset, making this one of the places to visit in october in the us for unique wildlife experiences.
• Exploring Austin's renowned food scene from food trucks to famous BBQ joints, one of the best places to travel in october in the us for culinary enthusiasts.

12. Salt Lake City, Utah

I think this vibrant mountain city is one of the best places to visit in october usa! Located in northern Utah, Salt Lake City becomes one of the best places to visit in october in the us when the summer heat fades and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains explode with fall colors.

I found that the city had a perfect blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure with unspoiled mountain scenery. I loved the breathtaking hiking trails, world-class museums, vibrant downtown, and the incredible Halloween events. I found the accomodation ranged from luxury hotels and boutique properties to cozy mountain lodges, giving it a diverse, welcoming appeal!

Summer is hot and winter is for skiing, so I visited in october in usa to take advantage of the perfect temperatures and festive atmosphere. It was amazing to have some hiking trails almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the mountains and city, though mornings and evenings were quite cool, so I also packed warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Hotel Monaco – I especially enjoyed their mountain-inspired decor, the evening wine hour, and the perfect downtown location!
• Taking a drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage against the dramatic mountain backdrop.
• Exploring the Downtown Farmers Market where I found fresh local produce and crafts – one of the best places to visit in october in the us for seasonal treats.
• Attending BooLights at Hogle Zoo, making this one of the places to visit in october in usa for family-friendly Halloween fun.
• Hiking the trails around Salt Lake with perfect October temperatures – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!

13. Frankenmuth, Michigan

The charming “Little Bavaria” completely won me over with its October magic! Located in eastern Michigan, Frankenmuth is one of the best places to visit in october usa when the town celebrates its German heritage with an authentic Oktoberfest and the fall colors create a picturesque backdrop.

I took a break here during october in the us and I found the weather was crisp but still pleasant, and there were fewer tourists than the summer. I also loved that it was the perfect time to visit in october the famous Bronner's Christmas Wonderland as they begin their holiday transition!

There are also fantastic activities happening this month! I loved experiencing the traditional Oktoberfest with the beautiful music, dancing, and authentic German food as well as the vibrant fall color tours and scenic boat rides on the Cass River my favorites!

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Bavarian Inn Lodge – I loved staying in their fun German-themed rooms, the indoor water parks, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a scenic boat tour on the Cass River and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall colors reflecting in the water.
• Experiencing the authentic Frankenmuth Oktoberfest, making this one of the best places to go in october in usa for German culture enthusiasts.
• Visiting Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store – I couldn't get enough of the festive atmosphere even in October!
• Dining at traditional German restaurants where I indulged in authentic schnitzel, sauerbraten, and strudel, one of the places to visit in october in the us for unique culinary experiences.

14. White Mountains, New Hampshire

I'm a big fan of this mountain paradise which is located in northern New Hampshire. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with dramatic peaks, pristine forests, rushing streams, charming towns, and the most spectacular fall foliage that makes it one of the best places in america to visit in october.

I going on a crisp New England adventure here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for winter – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from scenic drives and hiking to leaf peeping and exploring quaint villages.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a fireplace before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this natural wonderland had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Eastern Slope Inn – I especially enjoyed their historic charm, the riverside location, and the perfect village setting!
• Taking a drive along the Kancamagus Highway and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage from numerous scenic overlooks.
• Riding the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway to the Northeast's highest peak – one of the best places to visit in october in the us for panoramic mountain views.
• Exploring the charming town of North Conway with its quaint shops and restaurants, making this one of the places to visit in october in usa for small-town New England charm.
• Hiking through forests ablaze with red, orange, and gold fall colors – I practically had some trails all to myself!

Whether you're seeking vibrant fall foliage, Halloween festivities, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, these destinations offer the best of autumn in America. October's mild weather and reduced crowds make it an ideal time to explore these diverse and beautiful locations across the United States.