October is one of the best months of the year for travel. As far as weather is concerned, October is pretty much perfect for many of us, especially those who prefer those wonderful crisp autumn days when the leaves change color and

For those of you looking for ideas, I created this list of 15 awesome destinations that are even more special during October. Here are a few considerations I had in mind when creating this list.

When choosing these destinations, I focused on a few key factors that make October travel so special.

First, the weather is a big one—mild, comfortable temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities, whether you're hiking, sightseeing, or just soaking in the scenery.

I also looked at places known for stunning fall foliage, as October is prime time for colorful landscapes.

Crowds tend to thin out in many popular spots after summer, so it's easier to enjoy these beautiful places without the hustle and bustle.

Lastly, I considered unique seasonal events like harvest festivals, which can add a fun local flavor to your trip.

After you review the list itself, I have also included a few tips for creating your own October itinerary.

Don't miss out on these tips at the end of the article if you plan on traveling anywhere in October!

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains, stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, are famous for their misty peaks and beautiful scenery. This park is perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring nature, with plenty of wildlife and stunning mountain views.

In October, the Smokies burst with color as the leaves change. The weather is cool and comfortable for outdoor adventures, and the fall foliage makes drives and hikes unforgettable.

Keep an eye out for elk, as this is also the time of year when they’re most active.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

acadia national park in fall — Shutterstock

Acadia National Park is located on the rugged coast of Maine. It offers dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and stunning ocean views. It’s a great place for outdoor lovers who want to hike, bike, or just relax by the coastline.

In October, Acadia is a leaf-peeper’s dream, with brilliant fall colors blanketing the park. The cooler weather makes for perfect hiking conditions, and sunrise at Cadillac Mountain—where the sun first touches the U.S.—is a must-see.

3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering 105 miles of scenic drives on Skyline Drive. The park is packed with waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails that offer some of the best views in the region.

October is prime time for leaf-watching here, with vibrant red, orange, and yellow trees lining the mountain ridges. The crisp, cool air makes hiking the Appalachian Trail or taking a peaceful drive along Skyline Drive even more enjoyable.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is famous for its towering red cliffs and stunning desert landscape. It’s a hiker’s paradise, with trails that take you through deep canyons and along cliff edges for jaw-dropping views.

October is ideal in Zion, with mild temperatures making it easier to explore. The summer crowds have thinned, so you can enjoy the beauty of hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows with more peace and quiet.

5. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s red rock formations and peaceful desert vibes make it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. The town is known for its artsy feel, spiritual retreats, and scenic hiking trails.

In October, Sedona cools down from the summer heat, making it a perfect time to explore the area’s red rocks. Whether you're hiking Cathedral Rock or taking a scenic drive, the weather is mild, and the scenery is striking.

6. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

The Ozark National Forest covers over a million acres in northern Arkansas, offering rivers, lakes, and densely wooded hills. It’s a great place for a peaceful retreat into nature, with plenty of spots for fishing, hiking, and camping.

October brings cooler temperatures and gorgeous fall colors to the Ozarks. The forest’s rolling hills light up with vibrant oranges and reds, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives or hikes.

7. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is known for its stunning mountain views and outdoor activities year-round, but in the fall, it becomes a magical destination. Located in the heart of Colorado, it’s a top spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.

In October, Aspen’s golden aspen trees put on an incredible display of fall color. The weather is cool and crisp, making it perfect for scenic drives or hiking one of the area’s many trails.

8. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is a peaceful area on Lake Michigan, with charming towns, lighthouses, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its beautiful shoreline, perfect for kayaking, hiking, or just taking in the views.

October in Door County means apple and pumpkin picking, along with some of the best fall colors in the Midwest. The cooler weather is ideal for exploring the area’s quaint villages and taking in the vibrant scenery.

9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is America’s first national park, famous for its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. It’s a wonderland of geothermal features and stunning landscapes.

October is a quieter time to visit Yellowstone, with fewer crowds and cooler weather. You’ll still see plenty of wildlife, and the park’s geothermal features, like Old Faithful, are especially striking against the fall backdrop.

10. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is known for its diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines to lush rainforests and alpine mountains. It's a place where you can experience a little bit of everything nature has to offer.

October brings cooler weather and beautiful fall colors to the park’s forests. It’s a great time for hiking, with fewer crowds and stunning views of the changing leaves.

11. Finger Lakes Region, New York

The Finger Lakes Region is known for its long, narrow lakes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. It’s a great place for wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys scenic views.

In October, the Finger Lakes area bursts with fall color, making it a perfect time for a scenic drive or a wine tour. The cooler weather is also great for hiking or exploring one of the many waterfalls in the area.

12. Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is famous for its world-class vines and beautiful rolling hills. It’s a top destination for wine lovers and anyone who enjoys relaxing in a scenic, peaceful setting.

October is harvest season in Napa, so the vineyards are bustling with activity. It’s a great time to visit the area’s attractions, enjoy the fall scenery, and maybe even catch a festival or two.

13. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning area with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and plenty of wildlife. It’s one of the best places to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

October brings cooler weather and golden aspen trees, creating a magical fall atmosphere. The elk rutting season is in full swing, and you can hear the bugling calls echoing through the valleys.

14. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula is a rugged, remote area of Michigan known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and beautiful lakeshore. It’s the perfect place for outdoor adventures and peaceful getaways.

In October, the UP lights up with fall colors, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring. The fall views around Pictured Rocks and Tahquamenon Falls are unforgettable.

15. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree is a desert park known for its unique rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. It’s a great spot for stargazing, hiking, and rock climbing.

October brings cooler weather, making it the perfect time to explore the park’s desert landscapes. The clear fall skies are ideal for stargazing, and the peaceful atmosphere makes for a relaxing visit.

Moving on to the October travel tips:

Consider the shorter days

The days are shorter, which means you have limited time to travel during the day.

Shorter days call for a slower pace. This isn't necessarily bad if you're ok with spending your evenings sampling local cuisine at local restaurants, but it's something to be aware of when planning your itinerary.

Fewer crowds could mean fewer amenities

Many destinations have smaller crowds during October, which means some services are downsized for the season.

Check ahead to see which excursions and activities are offered and which visitor centers may be closed or operate only during limited hours.

Be mindful of changes in access possibilities and limitations

In some places, changes in the weather could spell out limited access. This is especially true in the "wilder" national parks up north or at higher elevations.

For example, the Going To The Sun road in Glacier National Park is closed in October due to snow, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is typically closed in mid-October.

On the other hand, some national parks may open up for private car travel within the park, or entry restrictions may be removed. Check before you go to make sure you understand how these places operate in October.

Don't assume it's "Off Season"

Just because summer is the high season doesn't always mean October is "off-season."

New England and the East Coast, in general, can get very busy during October, especially around holidays.

We once traveled to northern Pennsylvania to visit our son at his Massachusetts college, forgetting that it was the Columbus Day/Indigenous People's Day weekend.

We spent two hours looking for a place to stop and get a motel room. It was past midnight when we finally found an overpriced place to spend the night.

Pack for the season

Be very mindful of the weather. October is that time of year when it can still be pleasantly warm in some places but bitterly cold in others.

Northern regions and mountain areas are particularly affected. Come prepared with enough clothing, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. If things get too chilly, be ready to incorporate some shopping into your itinerary.

Final Thoughts on October Adventures

October is a magical time to explore the beauty of the U.S., with cooler weather, stunning landscapes, and fewer crowds. But, like any travel experience, a little planning can go a long way in making your trip unforgettable.

Whether you're chasing fall foliage, savoring local festivals, or hitting the open road, keeping these considerations in mind will help ensure your October adventure is everything you hoped for.

Oh, and just for fun, we put all of these 15 destinations on the map - quite the road trip to take in a month!

Top 15 Travel Destinations for October Adventures