October emerges as a prime month for savvy travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. As summer crowds dissipate and pleasant weather graces much of the globe, October presents a unique window for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re yearning for a tranquil escape or an action-packed getaway, October offers an array of destinations perfectly poised to deliver. From vibrant fall foliage in the Northern Hemisphere to balmy breezes in tropical paradises, discover the Best Places To Travel In October and craft your ideal autumn journey.
Greater Palm Springs, California: October’s Desert Oasis
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For those in the know, October unveils the true allure of Greater Palm Springs. Shedding the intense summer heat, this Southern California gem basks in clear, warm days averaging in the mid-80s, complemented by refreshingly cool evenings. The pre-winter lull means you’ll encounter fewer crowds, more attractive hotel rates, and easier access to coveted restaurant reservations across its nine distinct cities. Indulge in retail therapy, savor diverse culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the region’s attractions. Explore the wonders of The Living Desert, embark on invigorating hikes through the scenic Indian Canyons, rejuvenate in natural hot springs, and pamper yourself at the luxurious Spa at Séc-He. Art enthusiasts can tour enriching museums, while shoppers can browse the chic boutiques of downtown Palm Springs or the upscale designer stores along El Paseo. Palm Springs, renowned for its iconic midcentury modern architecture, hosts Modernism Week from October 24-27, featuring exclusive tours and home visits. Just a short drive away, music lovers can revel in the Joshua Tree Music Festival, set against the backdrop of the national park gateway from October 10-13.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
From lavish resorts to comfortable rentals, Greater Palm Springs caters to every lodging preference. Experience ultimate wellness at Sensei Porcupine Creek, a luxury retreat boasting a stunning golf course and top-tier tennis facilities. The Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas is set to unveil significant renovations in September. The highly anticipated Thompson Palm Springs, promising sophisticated style, is scheduled to open in September in downtown Palm Springs, conveniently close to the equally exceptional Kimpton Rowan. For adults seeking relaxation, Azure Palm Hot Springs offers natural mineral springs and rejuvenating spa treatments.
Austin, Texas: Live Music and Fall Festivities
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Locals proclaim October as the definitive month to experience Austin, Texas, and for good reason. The oppressive summer heat recedes, making way for comfortably cooler temperatures, perfectly setting the stage for a vibrant calendar of events. Erin Lindsey, a Bunkhouse Hotels executive and Austin insider, highlights the Levitation music festival during Halloween weekend as a personal favorite. However, the city’s October lineup is brimming with options: the renowned Austin City Limits Music Festival (October 4-6 and 11-13) attracts top musical acts to Zilker Park; Formula 1’s U.S. Grand Prix (October 18-20) roars into town, accompanied by concerts within the Circuit of the Americas infield; the Austin Film Festival (October 24-31) showcases both acclaimed and independent films; and horror genre enthusiasts can enjoy the Austin Horror Film Festival from October 17-19.
Where to Stay in Austin
Downtown Austin offers a range of stylish hotel options. Choose between the sophisticated Thompson and the trendy Tommie Austin, or the Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin, all centrally located. Hotel Van Zandt is set to debut its new lobby bar, Brass Poppy, in September. For festival-goers, the Carpenter Hotel, a short stroll from Zilker Park, provides an ideal home base. Seek luxury and seclusion at Hotel Saint Cecilia, or opt for a fun and budget-friendly stay at the iconic Austin Motel.
Vermont: New England’s Fall Foliage Paradise
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For quintessential fall foliage viewing, Vermont stands as an unparalleled destination. October in Vermont is synonymous with crisp air, breathtaking foliage displaying a spectrum of gold and crimson hues, apple picking adventures, and invigorating outdoor activities. Bruce Grosbety, president of Woodstock Inn & Resort, aptly notes New England’s esteemed reputation for leaf peeping. Beyond the vibrant foliage, Vermont beckons with hiking trails accessible directly from charming inns and community events showcasing local artisans and food producers. The Green Mountain State is a haven for culinary exploration, boasting wineries, breweries, cheesemakers, farms producing fresh goods, and sugarhouses crafting authentic maple syrup. Delve into Vermont’s rich culture at museums dedicated to art, nature, and state history. In Woodstock, don’t miss the Annual Woodstock Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Where to Stay in Vermont
Vermont offers a wealth of romantic getaways, including the historic Woodstock Inn, The Hermitage Inn in West Dover, and the secluded Twin Farms in Barnard. The Weston provides a luxurious boutique experience in the Green Mountains, while Hotel Champlain and Hotel Vermont are notable choices in Burlington.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Beauty and Oktoberfest Fun
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Scottsdale, Arizona, shines in October, offering daytime temperatures in the pleasant low 80s and even cooler evenings. While poolside relaxation remains enticing, October also invites exploration of the stunning outdoors. Embark on scenic hikes, browse the Old Town farmers market, visit a local pumpkin patch, or take a day trip to Sedona for more leaf peeping opportunities. For a unique experience, consider Ales on Rails, an Oktoberfest-themed train ride through Sycamore Wilderness, pairing Arizona craft beers with vibrant fall foliage views. This special event runs most days from September 17 to October 31. Accessibility to Scottsdale is enhanced this fall with JSX hop-on jet service launching a new nonstop route connecting Scottsdale and Dallas starting October 3.
Where to Stay in Scottsdale
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa, offers both tennis and pickleball courts for active travelers. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the short course at Mountain Shadows Resort and the challenging courses at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North. W Scottsdale, located in the Entertainment District near Old Town Scottsdale, provides a vibrant urban experience. Hotel Valley Ho, with its retro midcentury style and the delightful ZuZu restaurant, is another excellent choice.
Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm and Spooky Season
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Savannah, Georgia, in October, offers a delightful shoulder season experience with cooling temperatures and ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to this charming city, strolling through historic squares shaded by ancient oak trees and wandering along River Street’s cobblestone paths are must-dos. October sets the stage for Halloween festivities, making it an ideal time to join a ghost tour that blends history, folklore, and chilling tales. Film buffs can attend the Savannah Film Festival from October 26 to November 2, while jazz aficionados might consider a visit in September for the Savannah Jazz Festival (September 18-22). Savannah’s rich history, captivating ambiance, and delicious Southern cuisine ensure a memorable trip.
Where to Stay in Savannah
Perry Lane Hotel, boasting a rooftop pool and bar, was recognized as a reader favorite in Georgia in Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards. The Alida, situated downtown on River Street, also earned this prestigious recognition. Thompson Savannah, located along the river in the heart of the Historic District, welcomes guests with pet-friendly rooms at no extra charge.
Dallas, Texas: State Fair Fun and Urban Exploration
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The annual State Fair of Texas (September 27-October 20) provides a compelling reason to visit Dallas in early autumn. Experience live music, cooking competitions, livestock shows, and quintessential Texas-style events, continuing traditions dating back to 1886. October weather in Dallas is comfortable, with temperatures in the 70s and cooler nights towards the month’s end. Beyond the fair, Dallas offers a wealth of attractions. Explore the downtown Arts District, a walkable 68-acre area brimming with museums, performing arts venues, restaurants, and bars. Enjoy the pleasant autumn weather with outdoor activities such as hiking trails, exploring gardens and parks, or visiting the Dallas Zoo. Convenient transportation is available via Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) directly from Dallas Fort Worth Airport to downtown Dallas.
Where to Stay in Dallas
The Adolphus, located in the heart of downtown, offers a luxurious stay. Nearby, The Joule, set within a 1920s Neo-Gothic bank building, provides a unique architectural experience. Uptown, the boutique Hôtel Swexan features a rooftop infinity pool, while the Ritz-Carlton Dallas offers suites with stunning skyline views.
St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida: Gulf Coast Beaches and Arts Festivals
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The St. Pete-Clearwater area on Florida’s Gulf Coast is renowned for its pristine beaches. Surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, Tampa Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico, water activities abound, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, sunset cruises, and exhilarating speedboat rides. Explore boardwalks at Boca Ciega Millennium Park, Sawgrass Lake Park, or Weedon Island Preserve, or admire the views from the modern St. Pete Pier. From October 11-20, the SHINE Mural Festival transforms St. Pete into an open-air art museum, showcasing murals by international, national, and local artists. Take a guided trolley tour to admire the murals, or immerse yourself in art at the Dalí Museum, currently featuring Dalí Alive 360°, an engaging way to experience the artist’s iconic works.
Where to Stay in St. Pete-Clearwater
The St. Petersburg Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, originally opened in 1925, underwent a major renovation last year. The Don CeSar, affectionately known as the Pink Palace, is another St. Pete landmark. Downtown, the new lifestyle hotel Moxy St. Pete is set to open in August.
The Eastern Sierras, California: Highway 395 Road Trip and Fall Colors
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Venture beyond California’s iconic Highway One and discover the scenic Highway 395, traversing east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains through the Eastern Sierras. This route offers access to natural wonders including Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Mt. Whitney (the highest peak in the contiguous U.S.), the town of Bishop, and Mono Lake with its distinctive limestone formations. Phil Hospod, CEO of Dovetail + Co., recommends October as a prime time to visit Bishop and experience the great outdoors. Enjoy hiking, fishing, biking, and trail running amidst the backdrop of vibrant fall foliage transforming the Eastern Sierra landscape. Just across the Nevada border, tour Frey Ranch Distillery, a 2,000-acre farm and distillery producing exceptional straight bourbon whiskey.
Where to Stay in the Eastern Sierras
The Wayfinder Bishop offers comfortable accommodations, local art, and dining options. In California’s “Lost Sierras,” Greenhorn Ranch, a historic guest ranch, provides an all-inclusive experience with horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking, and more. The historic National Exchange Hotel and the renovated Holbrooke Hotel offer charming lodging options steeped in Gold Rush history.
Cappadocia, Turkey: Hot Air Balloons and Harvest Hues
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Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Turkey, presents a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock formations, valleys, caves, and “fairy chimneys.” Engin Kadaster, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor, highlights October as an exceptional time to visit Cappadocia, as fall foliage enhances the already stunning scenery. The view from hot air balloons becomes even more magical as red and yellow leaves accentuate the region’s unique rock formations. Cappadocia is also a burgeoning wine region, with the grape harvest commencing after mid-September. Beyond its natural wonders, Cappadocia offers charming villages where, in October, locals prepare for winter, adorning homes with strings of drying eggplants and peppers, adding to the autumnal color palette. Hot air balloon rides, available year-round, are an unforgettable way to experience Cappadocia’s breathtaking panorama.
Where to Stay in Cappadocia
Argos in Cappadocia, a luxury boutique hotel carved into a hillside, features caves, tunnels, multiple restaurants, and Turkey’s largest underground cave spa.
Kyoto, Japan: Temples, Gardens, and Autumn Colors
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Kyoto, Japan, is particularly enchanting in October, according to Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Rebecca Mazzaro. The city enjoys mild temperatures, low humidity, and clear blue skies, creating ideal conditions for exploring its countless treasures. Kyoto boasts over 2,000 shrines and temples, alongside serene gardens, bamboo groves, and world-class restaurants. Late October marks the beginning of stunning fall foliage, with fewer crowds than the peak season in November. October also offers the opportunity to savor dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients like chestnuts, mushrooms, and vegetables. Arriving in Kyoto via high-speed train from Tokyo is a convenient and exciting travel experience.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Kyoto’s hotel scene ranges from traditional ryokans to modern luxury hotels. The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, set in a beautifully refurbished 1933 schoolhouse, offers a unique and memorable stay. Alternatively, consider one of Kyoto’s newest luxury hotels: Six Senses Kyoto, which opened in April, and Banyan Tree Higashiyama, which opened in August. The Banyan Tree Higashiyama is unique for its suites featuring private onsens and is the only hotel in Kyoto with a Noh stage.
Florence, Italy: Renaissance City in Shoulder Season
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Florence, Italy, the birthplace of the Renaissance and a hub of art, culture, and history, is a perennial favorite. By October, the summer crowds have diminished, and the city adopts a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal month to immerse yourself in museums, restaurants, and the Florentine atmosphere. Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Andrea Grisdale recommends Florence in October for its pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures around 68℉ and clear skies. Evenings become cooler, requiring just a light sweater or jacket. October 8 marks the Festival of Santa Reparata, Florence’s patron saint, offering a chance to experience local celebrations. Tuscany in October also hosts food, wine, olive, and truffle-related events. Florence serves as an excellent base for day trips into the Tuscan countryside for activities like bike riding, wine tasting, and hot air ballooning, all without the intense summer heat.
Where to Stay in Florence
Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo, nestled in the Florentine hills, boasts stunning city views. Hotel Calimala is located in the heart of Florence’s historic center. Explore Travel + Leisure’s curated list of Florence hotels based on recommendations from locals and travel experts for more options.
Okanagan Valley, Canada: Wine Harvest and Outdoor Adventures
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The Okanagan Valley in south-central British Columbia is a year-round destination celebrated for its farms, orchards, wineries, and breathtaking scenery. Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Marc Telio highlights October as a fantastic time to visit, coinciding with harvest season. Orchards overflow with apples, a fruit Kelowna is famed for, celebrated through culinary events like vineyard harvest dinners and seasonal menus in local restaurants. The Fall Okanagan Wine Festival takes place on October 18-19 and 26-27, showcasing the region’s wine grape harvest. October weather remains enjoyable for outdoor activities, extending the cycling season, offering scenic hikes, and providing opportunities for paddling on the lake. Birdwatching is also popular during October’s migration season. The Okanagan Symphony Orchestra commences its season in October, and Prospera Place hosts diverse events.
Where to Stay in Okanagan Valley
Naramata Inn, situated on the shores of Lake Okanagan, is a historic boutique property with 12 rooms and the acclaimed Restaurant at Naramata Inn. Kelowna, Penticton, and Vernon offer a range of lodging options to suit various preferences.
Phuket, Thailand: Shoulder Season Beaches and Vegetarian Festival
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Phuket, Thailand’s largest island in the Andaman Sea, is famed for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, stunning sunsets, and delicious Thai cuisine. Easily accessible via Phuket International Airport, Phuket in October offers “the best of both worlds,” according to Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Grant Ekelund. October marks the tail end of the Green Season, bringing lush landscapes and diminishing rainfall, while offering shoulder-season advantages of pleasant weather without peak-season crowds and prices. While beaches, boat tours, and scenic beauty are major draws, Phuket’s cultural attractions are equally captivating. The Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a significant event from October 3-11, features vibrant decorations and a wide array of vegetarian dishes. The Big Buddha, a magnificent Burmese alabaster statue atop Mount Nagakerd, provides panoramic island views and is a must-see attraction.
Where to Stay in Phuket
V Villas Phuket, a luxury villa resort, offers breathtaking Andaman Sea views. COMO Point Yamu and Melia Phuket Mai Khao are also excellent lodging choices.
The Cotswolds, United Kingdom: Quaint Villages and Literary Delights
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Ellen LeCompte, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor for the UK and an 18-year Cotswolds cottage owner, considers October her favorite month in the region. October in the Cotswolds offers a respite from summer tourist crowds and boasts wonderful weather with blue skies and puffy white clouds, perfect for exploring walking paths and enjoying cozy country hotels or village tea shops. The Cheltenham Literary Festival, celebrating its 75th anniversary from October 4-13, features a stellar lineup of authors. Families will find attractions like Birdland, Cotswold Farm Park, and the Falconry Centre appealing. The Cotswolds also offer excellent restaurants, gastro pubs, antique shops, village churches, and local craft centers.
Where to Stay in the Cotswolds
The Lygon Arms in Broadway offers traditional afternoon tea and dining at its Tavern restaurant, providing a quintessential Cotswolds experience.
Mexico City, Mexico: Volcano Views and Day of the Dead Preparations
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Mexico City in October presents ideal conditions, as the rainy season subsides, offering improved visibility and potential glimpses of the Popo and Izta volcanoes, particularly from vantage points at The St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton hotels, according to Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Zachary Rabinor. Explore Mexico City’s diverse neighborhoods and renowned museums like Casa Azul, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the National Museum of Anthropology. Towards the end of October, Paseo de la Reforma transforms into a vibrant display of orange marigolds in preparation for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Adding to the October excitement, Mexico City hosts the Formula 1 Grand Prix from October 25-27.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Travel + Leisure recommends The St. Regis Mexico City as a top hotel choice. Explore other excellent boutique hotels like Hotel Volga, Hotel Alexander, and Hotel San Fernando for diverse lodging experiences.
Namibia: Peak Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing
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Namibia, in southwest Africa, shines during its winter months from June to October, characterized by dry weather. October marks peak season for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water holes in the increasingly dry desert landscape. As summer approaches, daytime temperatures warm into the 80s, while nights remain cool and clear, ideal for stargazing. Etosha National Park’s expansive salt pan attracts wildlife seeking salt licks during the dry season. In wetter years, the pan transforms into a lake, attracting thousands of migrating flamingos. Water holes within the park offer exceptional opportunities to observe lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, wildebeests, and other iconic African wildlife.
Where to Stay in Namibia
Accommodation options are available both inside and outside Etosha National Park. For guided tours, consider GeoEx, which offers women-focused itineraries exploring Namibia in September and October.
October unfolds as a treasure trove of travel possibilities. From autumnal landscapes to vibrant cultural festivals and pleasant shoulder-season conditions, these best places to travel in October promise unforgettable journeys for every traveler. Start planning your autumn escape and embrace the unique charm of October travel.
