In October, the US offers travel experiences as diverse as its landscapes. Traditionalists can indulge in leaf peeping and Halloween festivities in classic fall destinations, while those looking to sidestep the season can find refuge in quieter locales or escape autumn altogether with a beach break. From the pumpkin-spiced ambiance of New England to the sun-drenched shores of California, there's guaranteed to be a destination perfectly suited to your travel goals this month.

October is Music Month in the Big Easy. Honouring its title as the Birthplace of American Music, there are several standout events. The third annual NOLAxNOLA, from 28 September to 8 October, is a tribute to the city's iconic music, artists and venues. Mid-October sees the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival from 13-15 October at Lafayette Square, continuing the deep-rooted blues tradition with top talent from Louisiana and Mississippi. Check into The Dew Drop Inn, which reopens in October. Founded in 1938, the hotel was a barber shop as well as a famous music venue, where legends including Ray Charles and Little Richard played. 

If you're looking for an unexpected autumn escape, consider heading to Bend, Oregon. Unlike the rest of the typically rainy Pacific Northwest, Bend boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and October is an ideal time to enjoy its outdoor activities. Wander through Deschutes National Forest, where autumnal foliage stands out against evergreen pines, or go mountain biking at Phil's Trailhead. For a more laid-back activity, the Bend Brew Bus's Local Pour Tour introduces you to the town's rich craft beer scene, including seasonal fall brews.

Vermont in October is autumn personified. The state’s staggering 70% forest coverage becomes a canvas of colour, making it an idyllic destination for those seeking the season. This legendary foliage, particularly vibrant along Route 100, sets the backdrop for historic towns like Woodstock, with its artisan shops, and bustling Burlington's farmers' markets. Orchards brim with ripening apples, beckoning visitors for apple picking and indulging in seasonal treats like cider doughnuts, especially at popular spots like Champlain Orchards.

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Albuquerque, the world's ballooning capital, takes off in October with the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, running 7-15 October, during which hundreds of balloons soar simultaneously above the desert. Hailed as the world's most photographed event, the fiesta offers a unique experience, although balloon flights are available year-round. The city also celebrates the Mexican tradition of Day of the Dead, with multi-week festivities in October and November. Stay at the Imperial Inn, an atomic-age motel on Route 66, which is poised to reopen following a complete renovation.

Stroll through some of America's oldest gardens at the Magnolia Beauti-Fall Festival on the banks of the Ashley River on 21 October, or explore hidden oases during the Fall Tours, which open the gates of the city's secret gardens from 11 October. For a more rural experience, navigate the Boone Hall Corn Maze, framed by an avenue of ancient oaks. Stop by Charleston Farmers Market for delicious homemade fare. Art enthusiasts will find inspiration at the Gibbes Museum's new exhibition opening on 20 October. Something Terrible May Happen explores local renaissance artist Edward 'Ned' IR Jennings, and the queer influences on the Charleston Renaissance.

Sleepy Hollow, famous for the legend of its resident headless horseman, is a favourite Halloween haunt. The autumnal festivities kick off on 1 October with the Champagne Cocktails with the Dead tour, providing a unique peek inside the mausoleums of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. On Friday the 13th, the Castle Hotel & Spa hosts the Headless Horseman Ball, an evening of costumes, gourmet food, themed cocktails, tarot readings and dancing. Families should mark their calendars for 28 October, as the 21st annual Village of Tarrytown Halloween Parade marches from Patriot’s Park, culminating in a vibrant block party on Main Street. Book ahead as events sell out eerily fast.

Savannah’s muggy summers give way to warm and windy autumns, with temperatures in the low 20s (70°F) making it the perfect time to visit Georgia’s oldest city. Wander through its historic squares or delve into the city's haunted past with paranormal tours from Ghost City Tours around beloved sites like the Savannah Theatre. Explore architectural wonders in the Victorian District, relax under the moss-draped oaks of Forsyth Park or wander picturesque River Street, where former cotton warehouses that speak to the city’s troubled history have now been converted into antique shops, boutiques, galleries, brew pubs and hotels.

America's smallest state packs a punch when it comes to history and natural beauty, particularly in Newport, where you'll find both in abundance. The newly launched Inside The Gilded Age Tour adds a modern twist, inviting fans of HBO's The Gilded Age to walk through the show's settings in breathtaking mansions like The Breakers and Marble House. While in the state, don't miss out on sailing opportunities in Narragansett Bay, and visit the Blackstone Valley for kayaking along the Blackstone River or biking the scenic Blackstone River Bikeway.

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A dip in the Lake of the Ozarks may not appeal as summer temperatures fall away, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy America’s largest man-made lake in the cooler months. Fall fishing is a highlight, with active catfish and bass, and fewer competitors for the catch. Seasonal lake traditions include the Olde Tyme Apple Festival from 7 to 8 October in nearby Versailles, and the Harbor Hop, a waterside poker challenge where competitors draw a hand by visiting seven of 40-plus locations around the lake. Away from the water, the expansive Lake of the Ozarks State Park boasts varied trails, with Coakley Hollow and Lake View Bend both standout examples of the region's natural beauty.

In Portland, autumn is a gastronome's delight, thanks to the city's renowned food trucks. Unlike mobile trucks in other cities, Portland's 'food carts' often cluster in designated 'pods', making it convenient to sample an array of culinary delights, from street food to elevated cuisine. There’s even an app for tracking your favourite cart’s location. On 7 October, the Hood River Hops Fest will feature over 40 fresh-hop beers from more than 30 breweries, along with food vendors and live music. Meanwhile, gamers should mark their calendars for 13-15 October, to attend the Portland Retro Gaming Expo at the Oregon Convention Center. With an expansive arcade and all games set to free play, fans can run the gamut of gaming history.

Set against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is steeped in Native American and Hispanic culture, which is reflected in its fall festivities. October follows hot on heels of Geronimo Feast Day, a traditional Taos Pueblo event held every year on 30 September that features pole climbing, traditional dances and artisan stalls. For art lovers, the town is home to more than 80 galleries which showcase everything from Native American art to contemporary pieces. From 27 to 29 October, the Taos skies are filled with dozens of brightly-coloured hot air balloons, lifting above the sunrise-soaked Taos Mountains.

October is the low season in large ski resorts like Jackson Hole, which makes it the perfect time to visit for bargain hunters. Visitors can take advantage of two-for-one meal offers at local restaurants, ride the Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for panoramic views or opt for a bird's-eye view of Wyoming’s mountain ranges with Wind River Air's scenic helicopter flights. Soak in Astoria Hot Springs, open year-round and just 20 minutes from town, or visit Granite Hot Springs, open until 6pm daily. For a taste of the Old West, book a trail ride with Spring Creek Ranch’s Castagno Outfitters to explore the region's autumn foliage.

Maine’s winding roads are perfect for leaf peeping and coastal road trips. The state's autumn foliage reaches peak lustre in October across its seven National Scenic Byways; all are perfect for leisurely drives, picnics and photography. Tech enthusiasts and art aficionados can enrich their visit with the Creative Portland app, which enhances local art installations using augmented reality. For those in search of excitement, Old Orchard Beach features Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park that’s perfect for families.

San Francisco’s famous summer fog gives way to brighter days in autumn. In fact, October is the Golden Gate City’s sunniest month, providing perfect conditions for a free walking tour offered by San Francisco City Guides. You'll take in the Castro (the city’s LGBTQ+ capital) and the Mission District’s diverse food scene. San Fran is home to 50 of California’s 87 Michelin-starred restaurants. Aphotic, specialising in dry-aged seafood, and Thai restaurant Nari both earned their first Michelin stars in 2023. The Institute of Contemporary Art, which opened its doors in 2022, offers visitors a multi-sensory journey with life-sized installations and thought-provoking pieces by emerging local artists.

Enjoy apple-picking and lighthouse tours in this picturesque family-friendly peninsula. The Pumpkin Patch Festival from 7 to 8 October in Egg Harbor, named one of the best small towns in America, is not to be missed. A highlight stay? Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Sturgeon Bay. The original family holiday spot since 1969 offers various accommodations and amenities, from cabins and RV rentals to heated pools, mini-golf and train rides.

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San Antonio shines as America's culinary epicentre during the annual Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival running 26-29 October. With more than 80 elite chefs, including James Beard Award nominees and recipients, you'll be treated to everything from casual tastings to exclusive dinners and immersive workshops. After indulging in gastronomic delights, take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant River Walk or visit the historic Alamo with its new-for-2023 Alamo Collections Center, featuring hundreds of artefacts donated by singer and collector Phil Collins. Stay at the Otis Hotel San Antonio, which opened in summer 2023, for luxurious contemporary design and a destination spa.

Key West’s Fantasy Fest, a 10-day street party for grown-ups, will be held from 20 to 29 October, with 2023’s theme set as 'Uniforms and Unicorns'. Expect masquerade parties, outrageous costume contests and live music throughout, culminating on the final night with a grand parade. Temperatures still average 28°C (82°F) in October, and away from the festivities there are plenty of ways to stay cool, from snorkelling and sunset cruises to meandering through the Hemingway Home and Museum for a glimpse into the life of the legendary writer.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a landscape far removed from the leaf-peeping forests of New England or the beaches of Florida. It boasts the distinction of housing the tallest protected dunes in North America, which soar to an impressive 750 feet (229m) at their peak. These golden giants, set against the sprawling landscape, provide an epic backdrop for sandboarding and sledding. Camp at one of Pinon Flats Campground's 88 pitches for dawn hikes up wind-sculpted ridges that glow gold in the morning sun.

Chase the Northern Lights in America's northernmost state before it gets too cold. Alaska’s second city, Fairbanks, sits just below the main auroral band, offering dark skies, minimal light pollution and clear views up into the night. With fewer visitors during this period, the expansive Alaskan outdoors feels exclusively yours. Traverse its pristine trails on a tour with Explore Fairbanks for a remarkable hiking adventure. Or visit Anchorage – you might spot some snow in the surrounding mountains but the city remains frost-free until the end of the month. You'll find more clear days in October than in summertime, and the snow-capped mountain scenery is gorgeous.

October in Nashville is not just about the music – it's festival season. Explore literature at the Southern Festival of Books, uniting over 100 authors with avid readers. Whiskey enthusiasts can raise a glass at the Nashville Whiskey Festival at the Omni Nashville Hotel, savouring global flavours and engaging with distillery experts on 5 and 7 October. Meanwhile, Germantown resonates with all things Oktoberfest from 5 to 8 October – think oompah music, Bavarian food, frothy beer and polka dances. The Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival on 7 October in Centennial Park is a melting pot of global cultures, with vibrant performances from all the world's corners. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park transforms into a vibrant canvas of colour in autumn. America's most-visited national park has over 800 miles (1,287km) of trails, where hikers can experience breathtaking panoramas, especially from the Clingmans Dome observation tower, which stands at 6,643 feet (2,025m). For an aerial spectacle, hop on the Aerial Tramway to the Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area. Also not to be missed, the Unicoi County Apple Festival celebrates Appalachian heritage in early October, showcasing food, crafts and entertainment. Innovative accessible viewfinders, at lookouts across the state, provide colourblind visitors a chance to appreciate the fall colours.

October in Napa Valley buzzes with the fervour of grape harvest season, and vineyards bustle with activity. Throughout October, wineries open their doors wider, offering glimpses into the harvest process. Some even allow guests to get more hands-on, from picking and stomping grapes to tasting the fresh 2023 vintages straight from the tank. Mark your calendar for the Crush Party at Bouchaine Vineyards on 1 October, where guests can stomp grapes to their heart's content.

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Cooler autumn temperatures make it easier to spend time in the desert and immerse yourself in the beauty of Sedona’s red rock formations. These magnificent sculpted cliffs and intricate towers create an unparalleled skyline that defines the wilderness. With nearly two million acres of national forest and four wilderness areas surrounding the town, there's no shortage of adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts have access to over 400 miles (644km) of trails that are ideal for hiking and mountain biking. Delve into Sedona's rich history on a Native American tour with Cobalt Escapes, featuring landmarks like Montezuma Castle and captivating cliff dwellings such as Palatki and Honanki.

San Diego, which boasts average highs of 24°C (75°F) in October, is packed full of seasonal events and openings. Families can take advantage of a Kids Free San Diego promotion in which hotels, attractions and transport offer discounts for families with children under 12. Belmont Park's Fall Festival runs all month with trick or treating on the boardwalk, live music and autumnal snacks. New for 2023, stay at the Margaritaville Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, boasting 235 rooms and themed bars inspired by the late, great Jimmy Buffett. Art lovers should check out the San Diego Museum of Art's Korea In Color exhibition, starting 28 October.

Those seeking an escape from modern life can take it easy on a car-free island in the middle of Lake Huron. The clip-clop of horse’s hooves and whirr of bicycle wheels set the pace of life on the four-square-mile (10sq km) island. Used as a base by the British in the Revolutionary War, visitors can explore historic Fort Mackinac, before indulging in Mackinac Island fudge. Despite a riot of reds, yellows and oranges across the heavily wooded terrain, October is less busy than the peak summer season, with discounts often available on stays at the island’s signature white clapboard hotels and B&Bs.

Virginia in October is all about outdoor adventures and cosy vineyard visits. Hike popular locations such as McAfee Knob, one of the Appalachian Trail’s most iconic views, or for a more beginner-friendly stretch try Humpback Rocks. Apple picking is a seasonal favourite, with many orchards offering cider tastings from apples grown on-site. Wine enthusiasts will find harvest the perfect time to visit producers like Crimson Lane Vineyards and Early Mountain Vineyards, both offering award-winning wines and breathtaking mountain views. If you're looking for family-friendly activities, farms such as Liberty Mills offer large corn mazes and pumpkin patches.

Unleash your inner wolf whisperer with the 'Sleeping with Wolves' experience at the Wolf Conservation Center. For the first time in 2023, this unique overnight activity is extended into October, letting you safely commune with over 30 wolves. But the Hudson Valley, just a short journey from New York City, offers more than just lupine larks. Swap cityscapes for leaf peeping on an Oktoberfest Circle Line Sightseeing cruise along the Hudson River, or roam the 500-acre Storm King Art Center for some sculptural inspiration. Finish with an Oktoberfest celebration at Bear Mountain State Park running for eight days in October. It's free to enter and features German fare and live music.

Catch a glimpse of ocean giants in Laguna Beach this October, as the annual blue whale migration passes through this stretch of protected Pacific water. This extraordinary phenomenon turns Laguna and the surrounding seas into a whale-watching haven, where you can spot not only majestic blue whales but also finbacks, humpbacks and minkes. Book your spot with Newport Landing's daily cruises to make the most of the unique spectacle. The summer crowds are gone and the weather is still warm, making it perfect for paddleboarding, exploring tide pools or lounging on the sand. Galleries such as the Laguna Art Museum, beach bonfires and sunset strolls all add to the appeal.

The aspen trees, which the town of Aspen is named after, turn a brilliant gold in the fall, creating a dazzling display against the backdrop of the Rockies. Grab a bite at the Saturday Market or ascend the Silver Queen Gondola for stunning foliage views. Adventure seekers can bike the Rio Grande Trail to Woody Creek Tavern, paraglide from Aspen Mountain with Aspen Paragliding or kayak the Roaring Fork River with Roaring Fork Kayaking Club. Round off all that excitement with truffle fries at the Ajax Tavern or stop in at the Aspen Art Museum's rooftop cafe for panoramic vistas.

Infamous for its 17th-century witch trials, every October Salem hosts a month-long Halloween bonanza, with a medley of haunted tours, costume parades and themed events. Top attractions include the Witch House, the only structure still standing with direct ties to the witch trials of 1692. Cult movie fans can also embark on a Hocus Pocus tour of filming locations scattered throughout the town. Beyond the spooky festivities, Salem's coastal location on Massachusetts' scenic North Shore affords it tempting seafood eateries. Stroll Salem's quaint downtown of cobblestone streets or check out the expansive Salem Maritime National Historic Site.

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