Relaxing fall destinations to visit this October

San Antonio's historic River Walk extends some 15 miles, attracting several million visitors every year - Author: Zereshk - CC BY-SA 3.0
San Antonio's historic River Walk extends some 15 miles, attracting several million visitors every year - Author: Zereshk - CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’ve been looking for a perfect, serene getaway for this fall season, you’re at the right place. The US is full of tranquil destinations that you can visit this October. There are many options available, from the peaceful coast of North Carolina to California’s redwood hikes, for the intrepid visitor to explore during the last sunny days of the year. Depending on whether you prefer to stay close to the water or want to escape to the woods, here are some cool suggestions for a relaxing autumn vacation.

Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Bald Head Island Marina with Old Baldy lighthouse
Bald Head Island Marina with Old Baldy lighthouse

Off the shore of Wilmington, there’s a quiet island called Bald Head. The place is never too crowded, and during the fall it is almost deserted. There are no cars on the island which means that complete relaxation is guaranteed. Except for the 160 residents of Bald Head, you’re unlikely to find any loud tourists at this time of the year.

Katy Trail, Missouri

Katy Trail is a 225-mile long trail meandering through dense forest and limestone bluffs. It runs along the Missouri River, and a part of it cuts through the state’s wine region. You can go hiking or biking, and then have a rest in one of the many adorable B&Bs along its route. Some delicious food and quality wine will help you relax after a long day on the trail.

Cape May, New Jersey

Beach Avenue, from the sea – Author: Smallbones – CC0
Beach Avenue, from the sea – Author: Smallbones – CC0

Cape May is quite popular in the summer, but nobody goes there during the fall months. The place turns into a magical spot when the monarch butterflies settle on the beach for a few weeks. Riding a bike along Beach Avenue will help you relax like never before. Washington Street offers endless shopping opportunities and tasty-menu taverns.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster, or Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is an idyllic spot for fruit lovers. The many apple orchards are open for people who want to visit and help with the picking. At the local food markets, available all over the place, you can taste some of the locality’s fresh-made sweets, baked cakes, and fresh products. Take a 30-minute ride from here and you can visit Adamstown. Here you’ll find numerous antique dealers and you can get to know the Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac – Author: Gsgeorge – CC BY-SA 3.0
Mackinac – Author: Gsgeorge – CC BY-SA 3.0

The island is located on Lake Huron and is known for its Victorian style architecture. It’s especially beautiful during September and October when the colors are changing. The island has a tradition that goes back more than a century of making fudge, so if you ever come to Mackinac, you need to try it.

San Antonio, Texas

It’s never a bad idea to visit the romantic River Walk in San Antonio, but October is considered to be the best time to do it. The River Walk is just above street level and includes some of the best galleries and restaurants in the city. While in the area, you can visit the Alamo, the Bracken Cave or the Natural Bridge Caverns.

Walla Walla, Washington

Farmer’s market
Farmer’s market

The region is home to more than 100 wineries, all surrounded by breath-taking scenery. Walla Walla has also been described as the friendliest small city in the United States by the newspaper USA Today, which speaks for itself. If you are a wine lover, now you know where to spend an awesome autumn weekend.

Even if you don’t have time for a 2-week vacation that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t escape for a relaxing weekend. Depending on where you live, you can choose the closest spot to you and spend some quality time with someone you love. October is a perfect time for traveling as it’s all a lot cheaper and there are no wild crowds. If this is what you prefer, rather than a hot summer beach resort, then start packing your bags. Good luck!

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stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival