Fall is the ideal time to travel. Crowds are smaller, prices are lower, and the weather is just right for exploring. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a couples retreat, or a solo escape, the fall season offers a range of destinations that are easy to access, packed with things to do, and still affordable. Here are some top picks for where to go this fall.
Quick Overview
Women's Motion Access Waterproof Sneaker
$130 at Timberland
Gettin Lost Packable Puffer
$198 at Free People
Osprey Daylite Backpacking Backpack
$65 at Scheels1. Kyoto, Japan
If you're looking for an international experience with stunning seasonal beauty, Kyoto should be at the top of your list. November brings brilliant red Japanese maple trees that transform temple grounds into unforgettable landscapes. The fall shoulder season also means fewer tourists and lower airfare, making this a smart time to go.
Tourists gather at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto to view and photograph the surrounding autumn foliageFor walking the cobblestone alleys and temple gardens, pack a comfortable waterproof sneaker like this one that blends style with support.
Timberland
Women's Motion Access Waterproof Sneaker
For your next fall getaway, these Timberland GreenStride Motion 6 hikers offer the perfect mix of traction, breathability, and a neutral tone that pairs with any outfit.
$130 at TimberlandIf Japan is on your radar, you might be surprised to learn that the country is offering free domestic flights to some travelers.
2. New York City
Fall in Central Park is one of New York’s best offerings. The trees along Literary Walk turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and the cooler weather makes walking tours, museum visits, and ferry rides much more pleasant than in summer.
A white carriage rolls through Central Park during peak fall foliage as New Yorkers and tourists enjoy the crisp autumn air.It’s also a great time to explore the city’s quieter corners—hidden gems in NYC that often get overlooked but shine even more in the fall.
3. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
If you're looking for a fall destination that blends history with hands-on fun, Colonial Williamsburg is a great pick for families. Costumed interpreters bring 18th-century life to the streets, and kids can try old-time games, crafts, and even take a carriage ride.
Merchants Square in Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia during autumn with golden trees and historic buildings.It's also a good opportunity to visit nearby Jamestown and Yorktown for more immersive learning without classroom walls. Bring layers for cooler evenings—a packable jacket like this one is easy to stash during warmer afternoons.
Free People
Gettin Lost Packable Puffer
This chevron-quilted puffer jacket is perfect for outdoor adventures with its insulated warmth and stylish zigzag stitching.
$198 at Free People4. Bavaria, Germany
Oktoberfest may be the headline, but the region has more to offer beyond beer tents. Fall is a scenic time to visit castles, walk through golden forests, and enjoy warm meals in charming Alpine villages.
A tour boat glides through the glassy waters of Königssee Lake, framed by the vivid fall colors of the Bavarian Alps.AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_lbckr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframe The crowds start to thin by mid-October, making it easier to visit Neuschwanstein Castle or wander through Munich’s markets. If your trip overlaps with a major event, plan ahead. Flight delays and cancellations tend to increase around peak travel weekends.
5. Columbia Falls, Montana
This is one of the lesser-known leaf peeping spots, but it's right at the gateway to Glacier National Park. Fall brings crisp mountain air and golden larch trees, plus it’s one of the quietest times of year in the region.
Golden trees dot the base of a Montana mountain, mirrored perfectly in the glassy river below.If you’re heading to the trails, a lightweight daypack like this one is useful for carrying snacks, a camera, and layers without bulk.
Scheels
Osprey Daylite Backpacking Backpack
Stay organized and hands-free with the Osprey Daylite backpack, perfect for everything from national park hikes to city strolls this fall.
$65 at Scheels6. Salem, Massachusetts
October is peak season in Salem, and for good reason. The town leans into its haunted history with festivals, tours, and Halloween-themed events that are surprisingly family-friendly.
Visitors stroll through Salem’s Essex Street, lined with shops and Halloween decor during the town’s annual October celebrations.Book early, as hotels fill up quickly during weekends. If you’re planning to work remotely while traveling, you may want to check out the easiest countries to work from if you’re fully remote and compare flexibility for future getaways.
Final thoughts
Whether you're into history, nature, or city exploration, fall offers an affordable and enjoyable window to travel. Pick a destination that matches your interests and pace, and take advantage of the lower costs and smaller crowds. If you're planning now, don't wait too long—many of the top fall getaways are already filling up.
Yahoo CreatorTheankaraqueenHi there! I'm Brenda. A thirty something year old millennial who loves all things travel and fashion. Happy to share my tips and tricks when it comes to booking flights as well as dressing up.FollowFollow
