WHERE TO GO IN OCTOBER | THE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS MONTH
October is all about fall foliage, crisp air and cozy weekends, plus a few warm-weather spots that finally cool down enough to enjoy.
Here are my top picks for October, plus a splurge and a save hotel for each one so you can choose what fits your budget.
1. Vermont
Fall foliage usually peaks in late September through mid-October, and Stowe is one of the most beautiful places to see it. Drive Smugglers' Notch, go apple picking, grab cider donuts and spend an evening by the fire. Weekends book up early during peak foliage, so plan ahead.
Splurge: Trapp Family Lodge — An Austrian-style lodge on a hillside with sweeping mountain views, hiking trails and its own brewery.
Save: The Stowehof — Retro chalet charm with Mount Mansfield views, a few minutes from town, at a friendlier price.
Read more: My stay at Trapp Family Lodge
2. The White Mountains, New Hampshire
Some of the most dramatic foliage in New England, with mountain drives along the Kancamagus Highway, hikes and a grand historic hotel to come back to. Take the Cog Railway up Mount Washington on a clear day. It's an easy drive from Boston.
Splurge: Omni Mount Washington Resort — A grand historic hotel with mountain views, a beautiful spa and plenty to do on site.
Save: AMC Highland Center Lodge — A simple, affordable lodge in Crawford Notch, right at the trailheads, perfect for hikers.
Read more: My guide to the White Mountains
3. New Orleans
The heat finally breaks and festival season picks back up. It's one of the best months to eat and walk your way through the city, from beignets in the morning to jazz on Frenchmen Street at night. Halloween in New Orleans is also a lot of fun.
Splurge: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans — Old-world elegance on Canal Street, steps from the French Quarter.
Save: Catahoula Hotel — A boutique hotel with a fun rooftop bar, walkable to the French Quarter at a much friendlier price.
Read more: Where to eat in New Orleans
4. Scottsdale & Sedona
Temperatures drop back to comfortable, making it perfect for red rock hikes, golf and spa days. Sedona's sunsets are unreal this time of year. Pair a few days of desert adventure with Scottsdale's pool and restaurant scene.
Splurge: L'Auberge de Sedona — Creekside cottages surrounded by red rocks, with a great spa and creekside dining.
Save: Hotel Valley Ho — Mid-century modern fun in Old Town Scottsdale with a lively pool scene.
5. Charleston
Warm days, cooler evenings and oyster season starting up. It's a perfect food weekend, with outdoor dining, oyster roasts and long walks under the live oaks. Take a carriage tour through the historic district for the full experience.
Splurge: Hotel Bennett — Grand and glamorous right off King Street, with a rooftop pool and great bar.
Save: Francis Marion Hotel — A historic hotel on Marion Square, walkable to everything at a more approachable price.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Fall brings warm, comfortable weather for exploring the medina, souks and riads, before winter nights turn chilly. Get lost in the markets, visit the Majorelle Garden and take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Stay in a riad for the full experience.
Splurge: Royal Mansour — Private riads with butler service and a spectacular spa. It's one of the most extraordinary hotels in the world.
Save: Riad Yasmine — A small riad famous for its green-tiled pool, tucked inside the medina, cozy and much more affordable.
Not sure where to go?
Take my Trip Finder quiz. Answer a few quick questions about when you're traveling, your travel style and your budget, and I'll match you with a destination plus three places to stay.
Or skip the research entirely. I plan trips for readers, from long weekends to honeymoons, and I'll build an itinerary around your dates, budget and style. Here's how planning a trip with me works.
Every trip is different, and weather, events and hotel availability can change from year to year, so double-check dates before you book.
More months: Where to go in September · Where to go in November
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