November is not exactly considered the best month to travel. In many places in the United States it’s an in between month met with drear and rain, possibly even some snow.
Though, head south and you’ll still be greeted by sunshine and warm weather. There are also many places where the beautiful fall foilage that peaked in October is still lingering about. Don’t think that your options are slim during this month, as there are plenty of beautiful places to visit in November in the USA.
Why Travel the US in November?
- November is considered off-season for tourism in most parts of the US, and the world for that matter! This means that you may be able to find cheaper airfare, hotel rates, and other travel expenses compared to peak travel seasons!
- Although many places peak in November, in many parts of the US, November is the time when the leaves are still bright orange, yellow, and red!
- One of the biggest holidays in the US is Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday in November. This is a time when families come together to enjoy a big meal and give thanks for their blessings and can be a great opportunity to experience American culture and cuisine. This time is a particularly busy time to travel for Americans, but in general it is not to vacation destinations and more to small towns and cities where families live.
- As November is an off-season for tourism in most parts of the US you’ll find popular attractions and landmarks may be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy them at a more leisurely pace without hordes of people around.
Now let’s dig into the best places to travel in November in the USA!
Best Places to Visit in November in the US
1. Chattanooga, Tennessee
The weather is still quite nice in November in Chattanooga and some remnants of the colorful fall foliage are still lingering. Need any more reasons to visit this charming city? How about beautiful scenery, a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of outdoor adventures that you can still fully enjoy in November!
Visit Lookout Mountain and learn about the area’s railroad legacy and admire unique rock formations and caverns. Hike up the trail to the stunning Ruby Falls and walk across a thrilling swinging bridge. Take a ride on a classic train to get a better look at the beauty of the region.
2. Joshua Tree National Park, California
One of the best places to visit in November in the US is Joshua Tree. In November, the temperatures are milder in Joshua Park, and it hardly ever rains which is a good thing because you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors enjoying a unique and stunning desert landscape! Embark on nature hikes to incredible places like Skull Rock, explore Hidden Valley and admire the beautiful Cholla Cactus Garden.
The night sky is unbelievably clear here as most nights are cloudless and there’s no light interference from towns and cities so be sure to grab a blanket and lie outside somewhere and take in that amazing sight! If you’re into star photography, don’t forget your travel camera and tripod to get all the long exposure shots.
3. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
While the fall foliage in many areas of the country is long gone come November, the orange and gold leaves are still quite prominent on the trees in Starved Rock State Park.
Although the weather tends to be a bit cold this time of year, it’s still nice enough to explore the great outdoors and see the park’s incredible natural wonders including sandstone canyons, the Illinois River, Starved Rock Dam and waterfalls such as Kaskaskia Falls.
Hike along miles of trails including Lover’s Leap Overlook Trail and keep your eyes open for deer, eagles and many other species of birds.
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
It can get very hot in Las Vegas but in November, the temperatures are just right at around 70°F in the daytime. This is also a great time to visit because there are fewer crowds but in Vegas, the show must go on even if there are fewer people around!
Live entertainment is everywhere you look, from lavish concerts by renowned musicians to comedy shows and incredible Cirque de Soleil performances. Of course, the casinos are always a main draw but if you’re not a gambler, check out the Bellagio’s fountains, the Mirage’s volcano and the Venetian’s canals.
Check out the Pinball Hall of Fame, learn about the city’s colorful past at the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum and take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or the Valley of Fire.
5. Irving, Texas
While it’s cooling off up north, Irving is still nice with average temperatures of around 65°F in November. It’s a great time of year to explore this vibrant city and enjoy its many attractions, shops and wide variety of restaurants serving every type of food imaginable.
Cruise down the Mandalay Canal on a gondola, admire local art at the Irving Arts Center and catch up on some history at the Ruth Paine House Museum. After a day of exploring the city’s wonders, check out some live music at one of the many venues around town such as the Toyota Music Factory.
6. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Arizona, in general, is one of the best places to visit in November in the US. With mild daytime temperatures, very little rain and a fascinating desert landscape to explore, Saguaro National Park, just outside of Tucson, is a great place to visit in November.
Roam around the park and admire cacti forests, take a drive along the Bajada Loop Drive and go for a hike on the Valley View Overlook Trail and Signal Hill Trail where you’ll see ancient petroglyphs.
You don’t have to worry about getting too hot under the Arizona sun like in the summer, as temperatures are near perfect there in November.
7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
There’s no water, but there’s plenty of sand in White Sands National Park, one of the best places to visit in the American Southwest. While it’s not quite a beach vacation, it certainly is an amazing place to visit in November when the temperatures are very warm, rain is almost non-existent and there are fewer crowds.
Go hiking around the giant dunes on trails such as the Dune Life Nature Trail, stroll along the Interdune Boardwalk and go dune sledding down that white gypsum sand. Believe it or not, fall foliage is a thing here too. Check out the cottonwoods that turn golden late in the fall.
8. Cottonwood, Arizona
It’s warm, it’s central, it’s uncrowded and there are tons of things to do in Cottonwood in November. Do some hiking in Dead Horse Ranch State Park, visit some of the great wineries that are in the area, check out the Clemenceau Heritage Museum and explore Tuzigoot National Monument. In nearby Sedona, the popular Illuminate Film Festival takes place in November.
9. Jackson, Mississippi
Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds and a late golf season are just some of the things you’ll enjoy in Jackson in November. Of course, there’s always the vibrant culture, fascinating history, unique architecture and beautiful green spaces too.
Go hiking in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, check out the Freedom Trail plaques and visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. The Healthplex Harvest Festival in nearby Clinton, is a popular event in November.
10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is one of the most iconic beach towns in the entire country. In November, it may not be quite hot enough to go for an ocean dip, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy strolling the beach’s famous boardwalk! Enjoy oceanfront shopping without the large crowds of high season, ride the gondola or SkyWheel, dine on fresh seafood on a scenic patio and come evening, check out some live entertainment.
11. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is situated in the desert so you can expect pretty stable weather conditions any time of year and in November temperatures are still hovering around 72°F.
Warm temperatures like this combined with the fact that the city has about 350 days a year without rain mean perfect conditions for exploring the wonders of the city and the unique landscape surrounding it.
Do some hiking on the many trails and take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Learn about local history at the Palm Springs Air Museum and admire beautiful artworks at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and explore the great outdoors at Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon all in November.
12. Key Biscayne, Florida
If a tropical vacation is what you want in November, there really isn’t a better place to head to than Key Biscayne where daytime temperatures peak at 81°F even this late in the fall and the water temperature is warm too!
Spend days lazing on white, sandy beaches, go for a refreshing swim in the clear water, kayak or paddleboard along the coast, learn about local wildlife at the Biscayne Nature Center and climb to the top of the Cape Florida Lighthouse. A popular event in November is the ultra fun Country Bay Music Festival.
13. Birmingham, Alabama
You probably haven’t thought of this city being one of the best places to visit in November in the US, but let us convince you differently. Birmingham is a picturesque, relaxing place to visit and in November, it’s the comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds that make it even more so!
Take a stroll or enjoy a picnic in one of the beautiful parks that are around the city, enjoy southern barbecued cuisine and learn about local history and culture at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Museum of Art and the Civil Rights Institute.
Care for an exciting outdoor adventure? Head to Red Mountain Park and fly high over the area on a zipline. If you happen to be in town when the Moss Rock Festival takes place, check out the eco displays, events and demonstrations.
14. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
In November, it’s not too hot and it’s not too cold on Hilton Head Island so it’s a great time to visit if you’re interested in spending time outdoors and golfing, while also escaping the cold that is taking over many places this time of year.
Walk along beautiful sandy beaches without having to push your way through high-season crowds and explore the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Learn about local history at the Coastal Discovery Museum, visit the Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge and enjoy a round of golf at Harbor Town Golf Links. The Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival is a popular event in November.
15. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is one of the most iconic destinations in the country for a cityscape. In November due to the warm temperatures and sunny weather you can expect a lot of fun under the sun. If you’re seeking the excitement and attractions of the big city with easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, this is the place to go!
Immerse in the amazing culinary scene where you’ll find cuisine from all over the world and admire iconic works of art at The Getty and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood and head to Griffith Park where you’ll find the fascinating Griffith Observatory and see incredible views of the city and the famous Hollywood sign.
In November, the California Festival of New Music and Donut Fest are popular festivals to attend.
16. Miami, Florida
With temperatures peaking at 79°F, November is a great time to head to Miami. Although it’s not high season, the energy in this exciting port city is still high just without the huge crowds and high prices.
There are over 30 miles of sandy beaches around Miami and the water is warm even in November so no one could blame you if you spend your days lounging in the sand and swimming in the ocean!
However, you should also check out the fabulous shops, dine on international cuisine at world-renowned restaurants and enjoy fall events including SEED Food and Wine Week and the Short Film Festival.
If you’re looking for a longer trip, we recommend driving down to Key Largo, and continue on to Key West for the ultimate Florida Keys road trip!
17. St. Augustine, Florida
Florida has always been a warm weather destination and escape from the chill of more northern regions, but St. Augustine is often overlooked as a place to go in November. It’s one of the more affordable warm weather destinations in the US, and that couldn’t be more true during this month!
With comfortable temperatures hovering around 72°F and fewer tourists, this is one of the best times to visit this picturesque and historic city and enjoy a game of golf at one of the world-class courses. Stroll through the old streets and admire beautiful architecture and visit the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park.
Learn about the city’s seafaring history at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and check out Castillo De San Marcos, which was constructed in the 1600s, and take in some cannon firings and historical reenactments.
18. Mesa, Arizona
Come November, the extreme Arizona summer heat is long gone and so are the high-season crowds but if you visit this time of year, you’ll still enjoy warm temperatures and plenty of sun.
Explore the Fresh Foodie Trail and dine on healthy, fresh meals at farm-to-table eateries while learning how the food is made. Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History and immerse in the local arts scene at the Mesa Arts Center. In November, check out the events that take place at the Water Lantern Festival.
19. Napa Valley, California
There are so many reasons to visit Napa Valley in November besides wineries and vineyards! Mild temperatures mean comfortable conditions for also exploring the natural side of this renowned destination.
In November, the fall foliage is still going strong and one of the best ways to enjoy the golden and red vineyards and hillsides is with a drive along California Highway 29 or the Silverado Trail.
Of course, you’ll want to check out a few of the hundreds of wineries that make up one of America’s top Wine Country regions and with fewer people around, visiting a winery or one of the amazing restaurants is much more enjoyable! If you’re around for the Napa Valley Film Festival, be sure to check out some of the events.
20. Vicksburg, Mississippi
Vicksburg is a small city steeped in beauty, culture, and history. It’s also a top place to visit in the US in November for mild temperatures perfect for exploring the city and admiring its unique architecture and beautiful murals.
Dine on farm-to-table cuisine, learn about Vicksburg’s place in Civil War history at the Vicksburg National Military Park and visit other fascinating museums such as the Old Court House Museum and the Lower Mississippi River Museum.
21. Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas
Mount Magazine is the tallest mountain in Arkansas, but it’s also known for its spectacular red and orange fall foliage that can still be seen into November.
The weather is still quite warm this time of year so that makes leaf-peeping in the area all that more enjoyable! Start your journey in this state park with a visit to the visitor’s center where you’ll learn about the park’s history and attractions before a hike along the park’s trails. While hiking watch for deer, bobcats, and coyotes.
22. Gypsum Hills, Kansas
The weather might be cooler, but the fall foliage is still visible in Gypsum Hills in November, making it a top place to visit. The plains are simply spectacular when set to the vibrant reds and golds of the leaves that remain in the trees and a drive along the Flint Hills Scenic Byway is a great way to enjoy this sight!
As you explore the area, you’ll also see rolling hills, buttes, mesas, and canyons. If you’d rather explore the area on foot, there are many hiking trails such as Flint Hills Trail, Meadowlark Trail, and Riverwalk Trail.
23. Maui, Hawaii
Maui is one of the best vacation spots in the USA! Because of this, planning a trip to Hawaii can get expensive during high season, but in November, prices dip just a bit so you can get some fantastic deals on hotels! Temperatures are just right too, but that’s usually the case with Hawaii.
With an average high of 75°F and mostly sunny days, that’s perfect conditions for combining a tropical beach vacation with outdoor adventure. Spend days relaxing on a sandy beach, swimming in the warm, clear waters of Honolua Bay, and hiking the forest trails through lush vegetation to spectacular coastline views.
Enjoy the unique black sand beaches or take a scenic drive on the Road to Hana Highway and make sure to check out the beautiful waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch along the way! The sunrises here are spectacular and come earlier this time of year.
You can capture a memorable one in Haleakala National Park or Keawakapu Beach. Be sure to check out the Hawaii International Film Festival if you happen to be around during the first week of November.
24. Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky
If you missed the fall foliage that graces many parts of the country in September and October and you’re longing to see some colorful leaves in November, you won’t be disappointed in the Daniel Boone National Forest!
This place is incredibly beautiful any time of year but is especially so in November when the leaves on the trees are bright red and dark purple. The natural stone structures that the park is known for take on a whole new look when set against this stunning scene! Yes, the temperatures are a bit cool but still nice enough to get outdoors and explore the area’s natural wonders.
Hike along the easy Rock Bridge Trail and admire beautiful waterfalls or the Sky Bridge Trail where you can catch a glimpse of the Red River Gorge. There are hundreds of miles of trails so you have many opportunities to enjoy the views.
25. Huntington Beach, California
It’s almost always nice in Huntington Beach and November is no exception! Temperatures are still warm at around 70°F so you can still swim in the ocean. Better yet, if you like to surf, the conditions here are world-renowned, giving the city the nickname “Surf City USA”.
Go birdwatching in the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, check out the many shops and restaurants that are located only steps away from the beach and do some shopping at Pacific City outdoor mall. In November, Huntington Beach hosts the California Wine Festival.
Plan For Your Trip
- Protect Your Trip:We don’t travel without travel insurance, nor should you. You never know what can happen while traveling, so it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo provides excellent short-term and long-term travel insurance plans.
- Find Cheap Flights: Sign up for Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights) to get notified when prices get low.
- Book a Rental Car: We use Discover Car to book all our rental cars! You can also read our top tips for renting a car abroad here.
- Travel Adapter: Make sure you find a good adapter to keep your personal electronics charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. Purchase one here.
- Travel Backpack: We like the Nomatic Travel Backpack for our travels. Check the price here.
- Our Favorite Travel Shoes: Our answer to this question is always Allbirds! Check them out on their site!
- Get a Travel Credit Card: We travel worldwide for free because we have leveraged our spending into points. See how you can do the same with our favorite travel credit cards.
