US Travel: 10 Best Places for October Color & Weather

October marks a sweet spot for travel across the United States. Summer crowds are gone, air temperatures are crisp, and the scenery shifts into its most colorful phase. From mountain drives painted in gold to coastal cities enjoying their best weather, here are ten phenomenal US places to plan a trip this month.

1. Asheville, North Carolina

This city sits in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a region famous for its autumn splendor. The surrounding area offers a mesmerizing color show as leaves change with the dropping elevation. Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for incredible views, or tour the grounds of the Biltmore Estate, which is particularly beautiful this time of year. The city itself is known for its thriving arts district and craft breweries, making it a wonderful stop after a day outdoors.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

Coastal New England in the fall is a classic for a reason. Acadia offers a unique combination of granite peaks, ocean coastline, and deep forests. By mid-October, the hardwood trees burst with fiery reds and yellows against the dark evergreens. Drive the Park Loop Road, hike Cadillac Mountain for a sunrise view, or simply explore the charming harbor town of Bar Harbor.

3. Zion National Park, Utah

For those wanting to skip the traditional East Coast foliage trip, the Southwest provides a stunning alternative. In Zion, the temperatures are ideal for hiking the famous trails like the Angels Landing or The Narrows. You’ll see a special kind of autumn color here: gold cottonwoods and red maple trees lining the Virgin River, a striking contrast to the towering red rock canyon walls.

4. Napa Valley, California

October is harvest season in California’s wine country. The air is warm, the evenings cool, and the vineyards themselves turn a rich golden hue as the leaves begin to dry. Wineries are a flurry of activity with crushing events and special tastings. This trip combines world-class dining and wine experiences with a beautiful agricultural setting.

5. Sleepy Hollow, New York

To fully embrace the spirit of the season, head to the town made famous by Washington Irving’s tale. Sleepy Hollow, set in the Hudson Valley, goes all in on the spooky. Ghost tours, haunted hayrides, and themed events fill the month. This getaway is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of historical sites, fall color, and festive Halloween fun near New York City.

6. San Diego, California

If your perfect October means sunshine, the Southern California coast is waiting. San Diego enjoys delightful weather, escaping the intense heat of summer. It’s a great time to visit the zoo, explore Balboa Park, or simply relax on the beach without the peak season crowds. Various events, including Oktoberfest celebrations, add a seasonal flavor to the mild climate.

7. The Eastern Sierra, California

Less crowded than Yosemite, the Eastern Sierra mountain range lights up with gold in the fall. The area, running along the border of Nevada, features beautiful Aspen forests that reach their peak color around early to mid-month. Scenic drives like the June Lake Loop showcase spectacular foliage, making it a photographer’s dream destination.

8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

High in the Mountain West, the Tetons put on an exceptional show before winter arrives. Aspens, cottonwoods, and willows turn brilliant shades of yellow, providing an astonishing foreground to the jagged, snow-dusted peaks. With fewer visitors than in summer, you have a better chance to spot wildlife like elk and bison moving through the valleys.

9. Salem, Massachusetts

Few destinations celebrate October quite like Salem. Famous for the 1692 witch trials, the city embraces its eerie past. Haunted Happenings, ghost walks, and historical museum tours take place daily. It’s a highly atmospheric place to visit, mixing the chilling history with the cozy feel of a historic New England port town.

10. Chicago, Illinois

Midwestern cities shine in the fall, and Chicago is no exception. The city parks and tree-lined streets fill with color, and the milder air makes walking tours more enjoyable. Take an architectural boat ride, visit a museum, or stroll through Millennium Park. The city offers a great urban escape, and its many events and festivals add flavor to the season.