20 Places in USA for Bucket List Travel in the Fall Season
Discover charming destinations perfect for USA bucket list travel during the
fall season. As the leaves change and the landscapes transform, travelers can explore charming towns, indulge in seasonal festivals, and enjoy outdoor adventures against breathtaking foliage.
From apple picking in the Northeast to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, fall invites exploration and unforgettable memories. Embrace the season!
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, the diverse destinations across the country make fall an ideal time to check off those bucket list travel goals.
Why is the USA on a bucket list for travel in the fall season?
Fall is an excellent time for travel in the USA, featuring mild weather and fewer crowds than summer. Seasonal activities and events abound.
The changing leaves create picturesque landscapes, enhancing the travel experience. Many destinations offer unique culinary delights tied to the harvest season, making fall ideal for exploration.
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20 Autumn Travel Bucket List in the USA
1. The Berkshires
Fall in the Berkshires is a breathtaking experience. Temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-60s, perfect for outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy stunning foliage, world-class art at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, and outdoor activities like hiking in the picturesque mountains.
For a bucket list stay, consider the luxurious 33 Main, a historic estate that offers a unique blend of elegance and nature.
2. Savannah, GA
Savannah enjoys mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s in the fall, creating a lovely atmosphere for exploring its historic charm. Visitors can stroll through the iconic squares adorned with fall blooms, indulge in the city’s culinary delights, and experience the haunting tales of its ghost tours.
The Hamilton-Turner Inn, a beautiful Victorian bed and breakfast, provides a memorable stay in the heart of the historic district.
3. Salem, MA
Fall is the ideal time to visit Salem, with cool temperatures in the 50s and 60s, as the city transforms into a Halloween hotspot. Visitors can explore the rich history of the witch trials, enjoy themed events, and take part in ghost tours.
The Hawthorne Hotel, located in the heart of Salem, is a must-visit destination and a charming and historic hotel.
4. Stowe, VT
With fall temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s, Stowe is a quintessential New England destination. Visitors are drawn to the stunning foliage, outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and the town’s charm.
For a bucket list experience, stay at the Trapp Family Lodge, which offers breathtaking mountain views and a taste of Austrian hospitality.
5. The Finger Lakes, NY
Autumn in the Finger Lakes brings crisp air and colorful foliage, with temperatures hovering in the 50s and 60s. The region is renowned for its stunning lakes, wine tasting at over 100 wineries, and hiking opportunities in state parks.
A stay at the luxurious Geneva On The Lake, overlooking Seneca Lake, offers a perfect blend of comfort and scenic beauty.
6. Jackson Hole, WY
Fall in Jackson Hole features crisp air and temperatures in the 40s and 50s, making it a great time for outdoor adventures. Highlights of the season include the stunning landscapes of Grand Teton National Park, wildlife viewing, and the famous Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.
The luxurious Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa, this upscale resort, offers a spectacular stay with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Boston, MA
In autumn in Boston, mild temperatures are seen in the 50s and 60s, perfect for exploring this historic city. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful fall foliage along the Freedom Trail, experience the vibrant cultural scene, and savor delicious seasonal cuisine.
For a bucket list experience, consider staying at the iconic Fairmont Copley Plaza, which combines luxury with historic charm.
8. Napa Valley Wineries for Harvest Season
Fall in Napa Valley is a magical time, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s. The vineyards burst with color, and the harvest season begins. Visitors can partake in wine tastings, vineyard tours, and culinary experiences celebrating the season.
Stay at the luxurious Alila Napa Valley, which offers stunning vineyard views and a world-class spa. It’s the perfect getaway.
9. NYC for Macy’s Parade
Visiting New York City in the fall, especially during Thanksgiving, offers a unique experience with temperatures in the 40s and 50s. The iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, colorful autumn events, and the city’s stunning architecture are major draws.
For a bucket list stay, consider the historic Knickerbocker Hotel, located in Times Square. It provides a luxurious base from which to enjoy the festivities.
10. Alaska Northern Lights
Fall in Alaska is a spectacular time to witness the Northern Lights, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 40s. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes, engage in outdoor activities like dog sledding, and enjoy the unique wildlife.
For a bucket list experience, stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in natural hot springs while gazing at the mesmerizing auroras overhead.
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11. Southeast Michigan for Apple Picking
Fall in Southeast Michigan is a delightful experience, with temperatures typically ranging from the 50s to 70s. This region is renowned for its picturesque orchards, allowing visitors to pick fresh apples, enjoy cider tastings, and savor homemade donuts.
For a memorable stay, consider the charming Lakeview Hills Golf & Resort, which provides a cozy atmosphere and easy access to local farms and Lake Huron.
12. Door County, WI
In the fall, Door County experiences mild weather with temperatures in the 50s and 60s, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy stunning fall foliage, explore scenic parks, and indulge in local culinary delights.
The Gordon’s Lodge is a cozy and charming place to stay. It offers delicious breakfast options, lake views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
13. Travel to See Your Favorite Team Play Football
Fall is synonymous with football season; temperatures vary by location, typically from the 40s to 70s. Fans can revel in the excitement of attending games, tailgating with fellow supporters, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of stadiums.
For a bucket list experience, consider staying at a nearby hotel known for its sports-themed decor, that offers game-day packages.
14. Attend the World Series
Fall brings the excitement of the World Series, with temperatures usually in the 50s and 60s in many major cities. Fans can immerse themselves in the electric atmosphere of the championship games, enjoy pre-game festivities, and savor classic ballpark foods.
For a bucket list stay, consider the historic hotel, conveniently located near the MLB Park, making it easy to catch the action.
15. Aspen, Colorado, for the Maroon Bells
Fall in Aspen is breathtaking, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to 60s, especially as the iconic Maroon Bells come alive with autumn colors. Visitors can hike through stunning landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities like mountain biking, and experience the charming town.
A stay at The Little Nell, a luxurious hotel at the base of the mountains, provides unparalleled access to nature and the Aspen scene.
16. Albuquerque, NM International Balloon Fiesta
Fall in Albuquerque is perfect for the International Balloon Fiesta, with temperatures in the 50s to 70s. Visitors can witness the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in cultural events.
For a bucket list experience, stay at the Hotel Albuquerque, which offers a blend of Southwestern charm and easy access to the fiesta festivities.
17. Orlando, FL Epcot Food & Wine Festival
Fall in Orlando is warm and inviting, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, making it ideal for visiting Epcot for its Food & Wine Festival. Guests can indulge in culinary delights from around the world, attend cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live entertainment.
For a bucket list stay, consider the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Orlando, which offers exceptional amenities and proximity to the park.
18. Woodstock, VT
Fall in Woodstock is a postcard-perfect experience, with temperatures in the 40s to 60s and beautiful foliage painting the landscape. Visitors can explore charming shops, enjoy scenic hikes, and experience local farm-to-table cuisine.
For a bucket list stay, the Woodstock Inn & Resort provides a blend of luxury and rustic charm, complete with a spa and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
19. White Mountains, NH
In the fall, the White Mountains boast stunning foliage and crisp temperatures in the 40s to 60s. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy activities like leaf-peeping and apple picking.
For a bucket list experience, stay at the Omni Mount Washington Resort, a historic hotel with opulent accommodations and stunning mountain vistas.
20. Leavenworth, WA
Fall in Leavenworth is enchanting. Temperatures range from the 40s to 60s, and the Bavarian-themed village comes alive with autumn colors. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy seasonal festivals, and partake in outdoor activities like hiking and river rafting.
For a bucket list stay, consider the enchanting Bavarian Lodge, which offers stunning mountain views and a cozy, alpine atmosphere.
Final Thoughts on USA bucket list travel in the fall season
Fall in the USA presents a unique tapestry of experiences that should be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. From the apple orchards of Southeast Michigan to the breathtaking autumn foliage in the White Mountains, the season invites exploration and adventure.
Events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the Epcot Food & Wine Festival in Orlando celebrate the richness of culture and cuisine. At the same time, iconic destinations like Aspen and the Berkshires offer stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re cheering for your favorite football team, attending the World Series, or enjoying the charm of towns like Woodstock and Leavenworth, the fall season showcases the diverse landscapes and communities across the country.
Each destination, with its unique offerings and cozy accommodations, creates unforgettable memories that capture the essence of autumn in the USA, making it a perfect time to embark on a travel adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions about USA Bucket List Travel in the Fall Season
Some of the best destinations for fall foliage include New England states like Vermont and New Hampshire, the Berkshires in Massachusetts, and the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina. The Finger Lakes in New York also offer stunning autumn colors, making them ideal for leaf-peeping.
Fall offers a variety of activities, such as apple picking in Southeast Michigan, visiting pumpkin patches, hiking in national parks to enjoy the scenery, attending harvest festivals, and participating in wine tastings at vineyards during the grape harvest season.
Yes! Notable events include the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the Epcot Food & Wine Festival in Orlando, and Oktoberfest celebrations nationwide. Additionally, cities like Salem, MA, host Halloween-themed events, while many towns celebrate local harvests with festivals and fairs.
Fall weather varies widely across the country, but temperatures generally range from the 30s in northern regions to the 70s in southern areas. It’s advisable to pack layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons may be pleasantly warm.
Bucket list accommodations include the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT, which offers stunning mountain views, the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort in New Hampshire, and the luxurious Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley. Each provides a unique experience that enhances the fall travel adventure.
Grab Life & Don’t Forget To Wear Sunscreen! Happy Exploring!
