12 Family Fall Vacation Ideas for September, October, and November

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It’s that time again and I love it. The crisp air, leaves crunching under your boots, and the smell of pumpkin spice lingering everywhere is here.

Fall is more than just a season…it’s a mood…the perfect backdrop for a family getaway.

You know those moments when everyone is cozied up by the fire, laughing over board games, or taking a scenic drive through a forest of reds, yellows, and oranges? That’s it and it’s the magic of a fall vacation calling your name.

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of apple-picking adventures or finding the best corn maze in the state. Or perhaps it’s time for a quiet cabin in the mountains, where you can disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other. Whatever your family’s vibe, there’s a perfect fall destination waiting. Here are our top 10 fall destinations this year with something unique for everyone. We’re covering everything from laid-back family bonding to action-packed adventures. So, get ready to fall in love with autumn all over again.

September Travel Ideas

September is the sweet spot for travel. Summer’s heat is fading, and the vibrant hues of fall are starting to set in. It’s the perfect month for exploring new places before the holiday rush kicks in. Check out these September vacation ideas.

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake that straddles the California-Nevada border. You’ll see breathtaking views and enjoy endless outdoor adventures.

The summer crowds are thinning out and the weather is still warm enough for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or even a swim in the crystal-clear waters. You can also hike or bike the scenic trails around the lake, like the Emerald Bay State Park with its stunning sapphire-blue water and pine-covered mountains.

You can also explore the charming towns of Tahoe City or South Lake Tahoe, where you’ll find quaint shops, local dining, and a laid-back mountain vibe. And don’t miss the chance to take a scenic cruise to enjoy the fall foliage from the water. By night, cozy up by a lakeside firepit or try your luck at the casinos just across the state line. There’s just so much to do.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Down in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and outdoor activities. In September, the city offers a delightful mix of mild weather, making it perfect for hiking to see the early fall colors beginning to paint the mountains.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take a stroll through the River Arts District to explore local galleries and studios or visit the famous Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S., with its expansive gardens that begin to transform in the fall.

Asheville is also a foodie paradise, with farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries at every corner. After a day of exploration, unwind with some live music at one of the city’s many intimate venues.

3. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s red rocks are iconic, and September is an ideal time to visit with temperatures cooling down but still warm enough for all-day exploration. I love the the beautiful views and find that you can enjoy  everything from hiking and mountain biking to scenic jeep tours through the unique geological formations.

The town itself is known for its spiritual vibe, with vortex sites where you can meditate or take part in a healing session. Visit local art galleries, enjoy a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard, or take a hot air balloon ride to see the red rock vistas from above–wow. And one of the best parts…the starry desert skies…the perfect setting for evening stargazing.

4. Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee in September is the perfect for early fall vibes while enjoying some of the best family-friendly attractions around. Start your trip with Anakeesta, a magical mountain-top park that offers a little bit of everything: breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, a treetop skywalk, zip-lining, and the whimsical Firefly Village filled with shops and dining options. The scenic Chondola ride to the top is a favorite for kids and adults alike, giving you a unique perspective of the vibrant fall foliage starting to emerge.

And just a short drive away, Dollywood in nearby Pigeon Forge kicks off its Harvest Festival in September, making it a fantastic time to visit. The park is decked out in autumn decor, with live music, crafts, and Southern-style food that celebrates the season. The Great Pumpkin LumiNights is a must-see, featuring thousands of glowing pumpkins and larger-than-life fall displays that light up the night. You’ll find thrilling roller coasters to gentler rides for the little ones, plus shows and demonstrations that showcase Appalachian culture.

October Travel Ideas

October is when fall truly hits its stride—cooler days, vibrant foliage, and that unmistakable autumn crispness in the air. It’s the perfect month for road trips, cozy cabin stays, and exploring charming towns that come alive with harvest festivals and Halloween celebrations. Here are some top destinations for an unforgettable October getaway.

6. Salem, Massachusetts

Salem is the ultimate October destination, especially if you’re a fan of Halloween.

Famous for its 1692 witch trials, Salem transforms into a festive and spooky haven throughout the month with haunted houses, ghost tours, and historical reenactments. Take a walk through the Witch House, the only building still standing with direct ties to the trials, or visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn more about the town’s eerie past…eeek.

The streets are filled with costumed revelers, street performers, and seasonal markets with unique crafts and local treats. And beyond its spooky allure, Salem’s coastal charm shines in October with crisp air perfect for exploring the harbor and historic sites.

7. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

October is prime time for a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains, where the landscape bursts into a stunning palette of red, orange, and yellow hues.

The park is one of the most popular spots for leaf-peeping in the country, offering countless trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes. Take a scenic drive along Newfound Gap Road or the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains blanketed in vibrant foliage.

Stop by Cades Cove, a picturesque valley where you might spot deer, bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. For a different perspective, consider a horseback riding tour or a zip line adventure. And, at night, gather around a campfire or stay in one of the cozy mountain lodges. You’ll have lots of choices.

8. Sleepy Hollow, New York – The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze

Sleepy Hollow, New York, is the ultimate destination for a pumpkin-filled adventure. Known for its legendary ties to Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” this quaint town goes all out for the fall season, especially with the *Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze*. This mesmerizing event features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins, artfully illuminated and arranged into elaborate displays—everything from spooky faces to detailed, life-sized sculptures of dinosaurs, castles, and even the Statue of Liberty!

During the day, you can visit nearby pumpkin farms like Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm or Outhouse Orchards to pick your own pumpkins, sip on fresh apple cider, or navigate through corn mazes. As the sun sets, stroll through the pumpkin-lit grounds, where the Hudson Valley’s historic ambiance meets festive fun. With haunted hayrides, ghost tours, and the legend of the Headless Horseman all around, Sleepy Hollow offers a unique and unforgettable fall getaway that captures the true spirit of the season.

9. Disney World, Florida

I love Disney World and can’t leave it off the list for fall travel. Disney World in October is just magical in the Fall, especially if you’re looking to combine family fun with some festive flair.

While most people think of Disney for summer vacations or Christmas, the parks have a unique charm during the fall, particularly with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. This special event features elaborate pumpkin decorations, trick-or-treating throughout the park, and costumed characters that bring the Halloween spirit to life in a family-friendly way.

Beyond the Halloween fun, the weather in October is more pleasant, with cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, so you can enjoy all the rides and attractions without the sweltering heat or long lines. Plus, Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival runs through mid-November, so you can taste global flavors and enjoy live entertainment.

November Travel Ideas

November is a time of transition, where fall’s final colors meet the first hints of winter. It’s the perfect month for cozy escapes, holiday festivities, and experiencing the calm before the holiday rush. From festive city breaks to serene nature retreats, here are some top spots to make the most of November travel.

10. Nashville, Tennessee – Grand Ole Opry

Nashville is a fantastic destination in November, particularly for those seeking a unique holiday experience. Head to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, where you’ll find the magical ICE! exhibit—a winter wonderland featuring spectacular ice sculptures hand-carved by artisans.

This year’s theme features Frosty the Snowman. Bring Frosty’s holiday scenes to life with walk-through displays, slides made entirely of ice, and a frosty temperature setting that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a snow globe.

Step outside the exhibit to explore the city’s vibrant music scene or twinkling holiday lights at the resort. It’s a perfect blend of holiday cheer and Southern charm.

11. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a unique destination in October, combining rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and perfect weather. The fall colors along the Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for exploring the city’s historic adobe architecture and vibrant art scene.

Visit the many galleries along Canyon Road or explore the Santa Fe Plaza, where you can enjoy local cuisine, crafts, and street performances. The cooler temperatures are perfect for hiking in nearby parks like Hyde Memorial State Park or venturing up to the Aspen Vista Trail for some of the best fall foliage in the Southwest.

Don’t miss the chance to relax in one of Santa Fe’s world-renowned spas or hot springs to soak in the serene surroundings.

12. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite in the fall is a quieter, cooler version of its summer self, making it perfect for families. The crowds thin out, and the waterfalls, like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, are still flowing.

The valley’s meadows turn golden, and the dogwood trees add pops of red. Take a hike on the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail or enjoy a picnic in the shadow of El Capitan.

There’s wildlife to spot, from deer to bears, and the crisp air is perfect for biking, hiking, or just exploring. It’s nature at its most magnificent, offering a sense of peace and wonder that’s hard to beat.

Featured Image Credit: Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock.