Are you hoping to go on a fall getaway? Whether you want to get a glimpse of some colorful fall foliage, to eke out a few more days of summer in a beachy and warm climate, or to spend a weekend soaking in some of our country’s history, you’ll have a great experience getting away from it all before Old Man Winter makes his appearance. Some airlines are offering reduced flights this time of year; the time between Labor Day and Thanksgiving is not peak travel time for most locations, so you might be able to get a great deal. Here are some places to consider for a quick weekend away:
Leaf-Peeping Weekends Away
New England and New York are probably the most well-known places for leaf-peeping. Rustic barns, winding roads and spectacular displays of reds, oranges, golds and yellows make this area of the country famous this time of year. The further north you go, the earlier the peak season occurs. If you’re traveling in early October, consider parts of Maine and northern New York; during mid-October, the trees in New Hampshire and Massachusetts will light up, and more toward the end of the month, you can still see some color in southern New York and Connecticut. Also, don’t forget about the Great Lakes area: Northern Michigan will see a lot of color in the early part of October, while the southernmost areas of the state will still have some foliage on display as late as early November. If you live in the West, consider taking a jaunt to the Cascade Loop in Washington; there, you’ll see a stunning display later in October.
Beachy Weekends Away
While it’s getting downright chilly in many parts of the United States, there are still some holdout places that are experiencing balmy weather. Southwest and Southern Florida, for example, is just starting to cool down a bit, but with daily temperatures still well into the 80s throughout October, you’ll be able to get in some great beach days. Relax on Miami’s South Beach, or watch the sunset from world-famous Siesta Key in Sarasota. You can take a day trip to Sanibel Island from either of these locations, or spend a few days in the Keys. The skies should be sunny and clear in Southern California, as well: Laguna Beach, for example, is usually in the high 70s or around 80 degrees this time of year, which is perfect weather for surfing some Pacific waves.
Historical Weekends Away
If you like soaking up history instead of surf and sun, consider a trip to one of the United States’ historical landmarks. The summer crowds are gone, and the weather is still nice enough to enjoy days spent outside in most areas. No matter where you live, there are likely some history-rich places for you to visit within a few hours’ drive. While most people know about places like Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia and the Freedom Trail in Boston, have you considered visiting the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas? Or how about the Hoover Dam in Nevada, the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan, or Abraham Lincoln’s home, in Springfield, Illinois? Look into the sites that you live near or that are near the area that you’ll be visiting, and you won’t be disappointed!
No matter where you’re going this fall, it will be a nice time to relax and enjoy the weather before it gets cold! Where have you enjoyed going during the autumn months? Do you have a special trip planned for this fall?
