As fall fades and winter approaches, I love November for its fewer crowds, lower prices, cooler weather, and stunning scenery. From vibrant cities to beautiful national parks, here are my top picks for exploring this month…
1. Telluride, Colorado
I love this gorgeous gem located in southwestern Colorado in the beautiful Rocky Mountains! It was once a Victorian mining town and now it’s popular ski resort in the winter (and golf resort in the summer).
I’m always charmed by its elegant streets lined with historic houses, interesting cultural attractions and superb mountain surroundings!
I personally think towards the end of this month is a great month to take a trip here as this is when the ski resort first opens.
I love being able to enjoy freshly groomed snow before the major crowds start arriving and I can always find great off-season discounts on hotels and restaurants too.
This location is incredible for downhill and cross-country skiing in the San Juan mountains. On my trip I took the free gondola ride to the European-style town “Mountain Village” at the beginning of the Uncompahgre National Forest and then sampled craft beers at the trendy Telluride Brewing Co, one of the biggest microbreweries in the country!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 236 W Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Map Location
- Average temperatures – minus 6 to 4°C
My favorite highlights…
- Going on an adrenaline-pumping snowmobiling tour with Telluride Outfitters.
- Watching a live blues band at Sheridan Opera House, I loved the impressive historic venue it was housed in which was originally built in 1913.
- Discovering and learning all about the town’s history at the Telluride Historical Museum which is housed in a former historic hospital! It was interesting to learn what life was like in this town the late 19th century.
2. New York
This Big Apple is one of the most famous cities in the world and I can never get enough of its world-class attractions, incredible shopping and interesting neighborhoods.
I love visiting in during because it combines the beauty of late autumn with exciting seasonal events, all while capturing the early holiday spirit – before the big crowds arrive in December!
From the incredible window dressings in the shops on Fifth Avenue to the gorgeous festive decorations, New York City I adore how magical this city is on the run-up to Christmas.
In addition to the incredible atmosphere, I always love attending all the buzzy events this month, including the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the fun New York Comedy Festival, the iconic Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink and the opening of the Christmas markets – Bryant Park Winter Village and Columbus Circle Holiday Market are my favorites!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10011
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 4°C – 13°C
My personal highlights…
- Going a scenic Circle Line Fall Boat Tour and seeing all the incredible landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, George Washington Bridge and the stunning Manhatten skyline.
- Enjoying the magical experience of ice-skating at the Rockefeller Center – it’s one of those bucket list moments!
- Discovering the enchanting Winter Highlights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. I loved drinking hot spiced cider and the Instagram-worthy “Winter Cathedral” (a stunning tunnel of lights).
3. Kauai, Hawaii
This dreamy and romantic emerald-green island of Kauai (the fourth-largest in Hawaii) always wows me!
With beautiful coastlines, epic surfing opportunities, delectable local food, tranquil waterfalls, and striking red canyons, I was captivated by this wonderful place!
I personally think it makes a magical vacation destination all year round, but early to mid November is a great time to visit as the temperatures are still warm and tropical and it’s just before the start of the rainy season (which starts at the end of this month) so you can also find some great deals on hotels and flights.
When here I loved exploring the iconic Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, the beautiful Wailua Falls and the incredible crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay. This month is also the start the humpback whale watching season!
- Visitor’s Centre Address:4-484 Kuhio HighwayKapaa,Hawaii,96746.
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 21°C – 27°C
My personal highlights…
- Eating freshly made sashimi at Duke’s Kauai. I loved gazing at the gorgeous ocean views while I dined!
- Kayaking around Hanalei Bay and then enjoying a picnic on the tranquil Pu’u Poa Beach while watching the sunset.
- Flying through the native forest on the fun Koloa Zip-line.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
I think Charleston – located in South Carolina – is a charming and elegant Southern gem filled with well- preserved architecture and tree-lined streets.
With its pretty beaches, luxury spas, excellent restaurants and a fascinating history, the port city makes a beautiful and romantic destination any time of the year, but I personally prefer taking a trip during this month.
The weather is still warm and pleasant, there’s fewer crowds, some great deals on hotels, and there’s lots of seasonal events taking place too.
These include the annual Thanksgiving celebrations such as the famous Turkey Day Run and also restaurants serving up traditional meals.
I always enjoys just wandering around and exploring the fabulous museums, art galleries, boutique shops, rooftop bars and markets located here.
Some of my favorite events this time of year include the Charleston Literary Festival, the family-friendly Harvest Festival, the South Carolina Underground Film Festival, the Festival of Lights, and the opening of the Christmas Markets.
- North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive(800) 774-0006.
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 8°C- 20°C
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on melon cocktails and looking at fabulous city views at The Rooftop at the Vendue.
- Shopping in the gorgeous clothes boutique, The House of Sage.
- Dining on hearty Southern Cuisine at Slightly North of Broad Restaurant – I recommend the tasty butterbean soup and beet salad!
5. The Florida Keys
The dreamy archipelago is located off the southern coast of Florida and I’m a big fan of its stunning unique beauty, gorgeous beaches, bohemian communities and laid-back vibe.
I recommend avoiding the hurricanes (November marks the end of hurricane season), the worst of the humidity, and the crowds by taking a vacation here during this month!
The temperatures are still warm and pleasant (and it’s warm enough to swim) and prices are typically lower this time of year as well.
On my trip I enjoyed snorkeling, sailing and diving (head to Key Largo for the best spots!), exploring the exquisite mangroves on Islamorada, discovering the quirky bars and restaurants and watching the incredible sunsets!
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 106240 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, +1 305-712-6596
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 21°C – 27°C
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a ride on The Conch Tour Train and learning about the history and culture of the island.
- Visiting Ernest Hemmingway’s former home on Key West which is now a popular museum.
- Discovering the incredible nightlife and bars along Duval Street in Key West. I loved the vibe at the locally famous Sloppy Joe’s Bar!
6. Flagstaff, Arizona
As well as being a wonderful base for access to incredible natural scenery and outdoor adventures, in my view Flagstaff – located in Arizona – is a cool, laid back city! It also has a charming historic downtown and an awesome collection of trendy bars, restaurants and shops.
I love that the scenery takes on a unique kind of beauty this month too. Flagstaff is surrounded by gorgeous trees that change colour from green to brilliant reds, oranges, reds and rusts this time of year.
It’s also a great month to explore as the cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking and I always find some awesome accommodation deals too.
After a long day’s hiking I always love exploring all the excellent eateries, coffee shops, wine bars, and cool craft breweries!
- Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 7°C to 13°C
My highlights…
- Going on the fun self-guided brewery tour (I picked up a guide at theFlagstaff Visitor Center).
- Hiking the one hour Fatman’s Loop Trail. I loved seeing the incredible volcanic rock formations.
- Dining on creative American comfort-food dishes at the stylish Tinderbox Kitchen. I highly recommend the Spinach Tagliatelle!
- Exploring the beautiful nearby ponderosa pine forest in all its glory and the world-famous Grand Canyon, which is only an hour and a half drive away.
7. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains – located in both Tennessee and North Carolina – are home to part of the sprawling Appalachian Mountain range. I love the huge range of wildlife and beauty here from forested mountain ranges and waterfalls to. dreamy valleys and tumbling rivers.
I’d recommend visiting during this month because its the tail end of the fall season and the foliage is still breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows.
I personally prefer it as the temperatures are cool enough for long hikes, the wildlife is more active (including the black bears and elk) and there are far fewer crowds than the peak season.
To make the most of the fall and early winter scenery I loved taking scenic dives on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Newfound Gap Road and hiking the interesting Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte and the scenic Porters Creek Trail. If you go too, don’t forget to take your camera!
- Visitors Center Address – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 1°C- 14°C
My personal highlights…
- Going on a fun Jeep Tour with Smoky Mountains Jeep Tours!
- Attending the magical and family-friendly Festival of Trees in Gatlinburg. Seeing the well decorated display of trees was a wonderful sight!
- Hiking the Cades Cove Loop which took me through the picturesque valley and past gorgeous mountain scenery.
8. Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley is a famous National Park, located on the border of eastern California and Nevada. It’s known for its scorching summer temperatures and surreally beautiful desert landscapes and jaw-dropping natural features from salt flats to vibrant canyons.
I recommend visiting this month because the temperatures are much more comfortable, there’s far fewer crowds (spring is the peak season), the conditions are perfect for star-gazing and on Veterans Day (the 11th), the entrance to the park is free!
I personally loved exploring the incredible Badwater Basin Salt Flats, the beautiful Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and the Instagram-worthy vista, Zabriskie Point, so make sure you squeeze all these on in your trip!
- Visitors’ Centre Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 9°C – 25°C
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a journey along Artist’s Drive and seeing the vibrant colors of the Artists Palette painted hills.
- Driving to Dante’s View and seeing an incredible panoramic view of the park.
- Hiking the three mile Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral Trail which took me through the gorgeously colored Golden Canyon.
9. Bayou Country, Louisiana
For a unique fall break I love this mysterious and tranquil swamp area located near New Orleans in Louisiana! It’s home to a large range of wildlife, fascinating Cajun and Creole heritage and unique outdoor adventures.
I personally this month is an awesome time to explore as the temperatures and humidity are much more comfortable, there’s far fewer crowds, the hotels offering enticing discounts, there’s colorful fall foliage and the wildlife is very active this time of year – it’s a great time for alligator spotting!
I loved visiting the historic and Oak Alley Plantation, taking a drive along the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway and exploring as much as I could of the diverse wetlands – this region is truly extraordinary!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4484 LA-1, Raceland, LA 70394
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 10°C – 21°C
My highlights…
- Going on a fun swamp tour with Cajun Country Swamp Tours and seeing alligators!
- Celebrating National Louisiana Day (9th) which had an incredible mix of cultures and music including lots of jazz!
- Seeing the surreally beautiful cypress swamps on a trail in theBarataria Preserve.
10. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
The Capitol Reef National Park is a gorgeous – and lesser known – gem located in the south-central Utah desert. It’s filled with towering red rock formations, huge cliffs, colorful canyons and breathtaking vistas.
I personally think this month is an excellent time to visit as there’s fewer crowds, cooler temperatures (which are better for hiking) and you can still see some late-season fall colors.
When here I explored the the distinctive geological feature, Waterpocket Fold, the striking Capitol Dome (unique sandstone formations), the towering Chimney Rock pillar, the monoliths of Cathedral Valley and the intriguing petroglyph panels and I suggest you add all these onto your itinerary!
- Visitor’s Center Address: Torrey, UT 84775
- Map Location
- Average temperature – minus 2°C to 12°C
My personal highlights…
- Hiking the beautiful Hickman Bridge, Grand Wash, and Capitol Gorge Wash trails which were perfect for watching the fall foliage.
- Taking a scenic drive down Highway 24 and capturing Instagram-worthy shots at the viewpoints.
- Camping overnight the scenic Fruita Campground – I felt truly immersed in nature!
11. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania lies at the junction of three rivers and although it lacks the aesthetic appeal other cities may have, I personally think it more than makes up for in vibrant culture, charm and character with interesting historic districts and superb cultural attractions!
I love that there’s fewer crowds, some great deals on hotels and the city bursts with vibrancy during this month with pretty late fall colors and the start of the festive events.
I’m a big fan of the “Light Up Night” taking place towards the end of the month which has dazzling lights, live music and fun family-friendly events.
On my visit I loved exploring the vibrant Cultural District (which is filled with theaters, art galleries, great restaurants and nightlife), the trendy craft breweries in Lawrenceville, the captivating Maxo Vanka murals, the eclectic Bayernhof Museum, the avant-garde Andy Warhol Museum, and the elegant historic brick buildings of the Strip District. I would just say be sure to bundle up, it’s a chilly time of year!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 7°C to 13°C
My highlights…
- Taking a stroll around Schenley Park and Highland Park and gazing at the pretty fall foliage.
- Stopping by Dancing Gnome Brewery for a fun-filled night, delicious food, and mouth-watering brews. I recommend trying the Spy Dolphin and Track Botanical beers!
- Exploring some of the riverside trails and iconic bridges (there are 446 bridges in this city)!
- Discovering the incredible downtown views from the hillside Mount Washington neighborhood.
12. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, nestled along Alabama’s coastline, is a favorite destination of mine offering gorgeous long, wide sandy beaches, outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, unique gift shops and great restaurants.
Summer is very hot and humid but this month brings more comfortable temperatures, less humidity, awesome hotel deals and I love that there are far fewer crowds.
At the beginning of the month I found it was still warm enough to swim and I also just adore just relaxing on the beach and watching the waves!
I also highly recommend getting involved in the other activities here which include golfing, scenic hiking trails, zip-lining over the dunes and wildlife-watching which are all a lot of fun.
I always make sure I visit the fun Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, the tasty Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival and pretty The Annual Lighting of the Wharf also take place this month.
For livelier types, there’s a fantastic party scene that carries on throughout the year.
- Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 9 – 21°C
My favorite highlights…
- Discovering the historic 19th-century Fort Morgan, which also offered beautiful views overlooking Mobile Bay.
- Going on a dolphin-watching cruise with Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf – it was an incredible experience!
13. Albuquerque, New Mexico
The fun and colorful city located in New Mexico, offers so much more than just its connection to Walter White (although that’s pretty cool in itself)!
I’m a big admirer of the adobe house-adorned Old Town, Native American and Hispanic cultures and beautiful natural surroundings.
While the summer heat can be intense, this month ushers in cooler temperatures and fewer crowds and being a Breaking Bad fan, it was the perfect to seek out filming locations without loads of other tourists hanging around!
I always enjoy checking out the colorful Dia de los Muertos, the vibrant Southwest Arts and Crafts Festivals, the lively Albuquerque Tango Festival, the Enchantment – Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival and the super-cute Doggie Dash and Dawdle!
When here I really enjoyed exploring the unique shops, sampling the New Mexican cuisine and hiking the popular Paseo del Bosque Trail which runs along the Rio Grande River.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 522 Romero St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 13°C to 18°C
My highlights…
- Attending the magical River of Lights Show at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden (takes place at the end of the month) which is filled with dazzling light sculptures.
- Going on a hot air balloon ride – this time of year is a popular time to take a trip!
- Taking the Sandia Peak Tramway to Sandia Peak – the views were spectacular!
14. Los Angeles, California
I love the sun-soaked metropolis for its entertainment industry, iconic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, incredible attractions, dreamy beaches and quirky outlook on life!
I personally prefer visiting during this month, as the city takes on a more intimate, local feel once the camera-clicking crowds have dispersed.
This Southern California city enjoys some of the warmest temperatures in the country during this month, and I visit off-season to find some winter sun and to soak up the golden rays at its numerous parks and beaches!
With a legendary bar and club scene, it’s also an awesome choice for a lively birthday getaway!
On my visit I loved dining al fresco on warm evenings when the city takes on a quieter charm, enjoying stunning sunsets and views at Griffith Park and combining hiking with celebrity-spotting at Runyon Canyon.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 10707 N Temple Way, Los Angeles, CA 90024
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Going on a walking tour of the city and exploring famous landmarks, awesome street art and Instagram-worthy spots with the Real Los Angeles Tours.
- Watching a Los Angeles Dodgers match at the Dodger Stadium – the atmosphere was unreal!
- Stopping by the quirky Alfred Coffee in Beverly Hills for an oat-milk Matcha Latte and a tasty Greenie Bagel!
15. Adirondack Mountains, New York State
I personally think this mountain range located northeastern New York is an underrated gem! It doesn’t enjoy the same level of international fame of some North American mountains but I love that it offers a quieter, more authentic break.
It covers over six million protected acres and I adore the breathtaking natural scenery here, the towering peaks, the wide lakes and excellent outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
With the crowds long gone, I much prefer to visit during this month as it’s particularly peaceful and I love catching glimpses of the late fall foliage and sometimes early snowfall too!
I often book a simple comfy cabin and immerse myself in the Adirondacks’ cozy romantic ambiance!
- Visitor’s Center Address: I-87 N (Between Exits 17 &, 18, Queensbury, NY 12804
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 1°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the luxurious Lake Placid Lodge – the views of Lake Placid and the quirky upscale decor made it an incredible experience!
- Hiking the scenic Bald Mountain and Rondaxe Fire Tower Trail which lead to the historic Rondaxe Fire Tower. Here I saw superb panoramic views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes and the Adirondack Mountains – it was definitely a very Instagram-worthy moment!