When people think about going on vacation, it's easy to picture a great summer getaway or a cozy winter trip. Summer means the beaches are open while winter entices skiers with snow and hot cocoa. Vacations aren't limited to these two picturesque seasons, however. During fall, it's easy to have the itch to get outside and go somewhere fun. The weather cools down, the leaves change color and lots of activities and events are ready to celebrate the beautiful season.
Don't let this year pass by without at least one or two perfect autumn getaways. Read on for a list of the best cities to go to during this time of year and find which trips will make the best memories.
1. Charleston, South Carolina
Known as a historic city, Charleston is a beautiful place to get away. Whether it's you and a friend, a significant other or your whole family, plenty of activities and sights are available. You can tour historic homes or see an art show — that is, when you're not out scouting the local food scene.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
People travel from all over to see Asheville and its gorgeous views. Asheville has a vibe that's hard to find anywhere else. Surround yourself with miles of color-changing woods — the ideal place to host a fair and plenty of festivals. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Asheville is one of those places you have to see in the fall.
3. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Another characteristic of fall that is cause for traveling is the abundance of haunted houses. The best haunted houses are where there's lots of spooky history, such as infamous Baton Rouge. Check out the most popular and thrill-provoking haunted houses or attend the Halloween state fair. There's always something to do around the Capital City in the fall!
4. Savannah, Georgia
It's unlikely to visit the south and not find an area boasting about its sports teams. Take the family to Savannah and visit the haunted Historic Grayson Stadium, learning about the ghosts of baseball's past who may have never left. It's also worth it to check out the local festivals and food fairs that dominate the month of October.
5. Boston, Massachusetts
As the weather cools, everyone's going to want to be outside. Boston has plenty of outdoor events happening in the fall! You can test out your skills on a bike tour or participate in one of the many Halloween spook events located around famous landmarks. End your day with an eventful bar crawl or find a live comedy or music show around this lively city.
6. Washington, D.C.
There's always something happening in Washington, D.C., whether you're visiting during the day or at night. Walking around the city in fall weather is an adventure in itself! You might enjoy a bike ride around the George Washington Memorial Parkway or visit the U.S. National Arboretum to take advantage of the gorgeous autumnal views. A free walking ghost tour is also offered in the evenings to fully capture everything D.C. has to offer.
7. San Diego, California
Many people say they want to visit California at least once, so why not go in the fall? Stop by San Diego and you'll find an incredible Beer Week line-up of dozens of San Diego breweries — your funds from the event are then donated to a local charity. You can also enjoy Kids Free San Diego throughout October, where kids get free access to over a hundred theme parks, museums and more.
8. Bar Harbor, Maine
A quiet vacation away from busy city life is a dream for lots of people. The trick to finding the perfect place to get away is choosing a remote location with enough activities to do — and that's where Bar Harbor comes in. Spend your afternoons fishing or experiencing small-town life. You'll no doubt want to visit the island made famous by Hudson River School painters and pick a trail where you can take plenty of pictures.
Planning Your Fall Getaway
A fall getaway is more than just a trip to the beach to lay out all day by the ocean. During the fall, celebrations and events of all kinds are what make trips to cities even more fun. Remember to take lots of pictures and live in the moment so when the cold or hot weather sets in, you have something to look forward to!
