From an overnight to a trip of a lifetime, fall is a good time to fall for family travel
Fall can be a wonderful time to sneak in a quick getaway… or break up your routine with a trip of a lifetime. Whether in your backyard or around the world, here are fall family destinations to get you inspired… and packing.
Below is our month-by-month breakdown of our 9 best fall family destinations, with links to more guides and info to inspire you and get you traveling more, your way.
Why travel during autumn?
Even in September, October, and November, travel can take so many forms. A quick Saturday or Sunday road trip can bust you out of a busy-school-year rut. Or if destinations far away have been catching your attention, November can be an ideal time to visit, say, Southeast Asia.
Some of our best travel memories have been in the fall, whether camping trips in Oregon, exploring northern Portugal in Porto, or road-tripping One Piece statues in Japan.
September
Crater Lake
Open year-round, but visit in September for smaller crowds with better chances of warm, sunny days.
Dublin… but not that one
Nope, not the one that first comes to mind. This small city in Ohio is full of public art, not to mention a river-spanning bridge that makes for great family photos.
Portugal
You’re getting past the summer crush, but Portugal delights with its promenades, affordable food, and of course, port wine.
October
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just a road that happens to be pretty. Every mile was designed with scenic views in mind, and a drive here is a memories-of-a-lifetime way to take in fall color. Virginia’s Roanoke area makes a great entry point, plus you’re near a vibrant small city.
Huatulco, Mexico
October in coastal Huatulco is often a sweet spot between the end of the rainy season and the hot, sunny days before the crush of Canadian snowbirds who migrate here starting in November.
Morocco
Warm days, excellent food, and a combo of cultures makes Morocco an eye-opening place to visit, but without the summer heat.
November
Japan
Spring cherry blossoms might get all the posts and pics, but fall leaves are just as gorgeous. If you really want to get into Japan’s nature yet be close to cities, we suggest destinations throughout Kyushu. They make for great road trips, such as around Kumamoto and Oita.
Mesquite, Texas
November can hit with a cold and frosty fist in the USA, but Texas is often a warm respite. Mesquite brings together BBQ, rodeo culture, and beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, yet you can easily fly in and out of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
Thailand
Summer heat has chilled out. It’s still plenty warm, of course, but November gets into Thailand’s dry season. From the hill country around Chiang Mai to the beaches of Hua Hin, this is a great time to visit Thailand.
