Fall foliage [1], carving pumpkins, and fresh, crisp air aren't the only reasons to love Fall [2] — it also happens to be a fantastic time to travel. With an abundance of festivals and events, just right temperatures, and often smaller crowds, the Autumn months can be the perfect time to set out on a holiday [3]. Trade Fall for Spring in the southern hemisphere, or take advantage of potentially lower prices in many locales that you've always wanted to see but your bank account wouldn't permit.
Whether you're craving a traditional leaf-peeping getaway, a light-hearted festival, or a bucket list worthy venture [4], Fall travel has it all. And the best part? You don't have to go too far, but in case you do, there's plenty of international destinations that are ready to wow you too. From the English countryside to tucked away islands [5], this round up of 15 destinations to travel to this Fall has a little something for everyone.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
You had us at vineyards and Fall, Oregon. The Willamette Valley doesn't just serve up beautiful Autumn scenery with wine, but also an assortment of fun Fall festivals [7]. From September through October, the area is host to all sorts of culinary and beverage functions, including a Harvest fest, beer-based events, and even one dedicated to quilting. To channel your inner wild west, plan to visit around the Barn Dance, where you can fill up on a pig roast after line-dancing your heart out.
Churchill, Canada
If wildlife viewing is on your list, Churchill in Manitoba [8], Canada is the place to be in October and November for spotting polar bears. Yeah, we said polar bears. Visitors can embark in tundra vehicles (how cool!), take guided walks, and slumber in wilderness lodges all while keeping your eyes peeled for the majestic bears. Dog-sledding and seeing authentic Inuit art and carvings are also popular options. So, put on your adventure pants and probably a coat (it's chilly there after all), and head to the arctic.
Munich, Germany
If there's one festival worth travelling abroad for, Oktoberfest in Munich is probably it. To make the experience even more authentic, shop for a dirndl or lederhosen while there and slap it on before heading to the festival grounds to slug liters of beer. Other than the main attraction (beer), there are food stalls with delicious german treats, as well as all the games and rides you could want. Prost!
Peru
Travelling to Peru during our Fall season means Spring over there, AKA shoulder season in the southern hemisphere. September and October rounds out dry season for most of the country, and as tourist numbers dwindle, it's a solid time to visit. The coastal regions are just starting to shine in the Fall, as Summer is on its way, and Machu Picchu [9] sports mostly blue skies until November. For visitors wanting to explore the Amazon, it's best to go before October when the rains settle in. Rich with culture, history, ancient ruins, and culinary experiences, Peru is true traveller's destination.
Sonoma, California
Other than the gorgeous wine country, Sonoma gives us a great reason to visit in Autumn with the annual Harvest Fair, taking place in early October. There's a slew of competitions, perhaps the most fun being the World Championship Grape Stomp [10]. Santa Rosa, California is home to this entertaining event, which also includes farm-to-table food . . . and wine, obviously.
Sicily, Italy
Arrevederci, tourists! Travelling to Sicily in the Fall months of September and October will gift lower temperatures and prices, as well as a heck of a lot less tourists (more gelato for us). In addition, foodies can plan to attend during the CousCous festival [11] that takes place at the beginning of September in San Vito Lo Capo. Daytime temperatures still range in the 70's, making beach and city hanging a lot more comfortable than the hot, crowded months of July and August.
Île d'Orléans, Quebec
If agritourism is your thing, have we got an island for you. Île d'Orléans [12] is just fifteen minutes outside of Quebec City, and yes, there will be cheese. And wine. And chocolate. And apple everything. Base yourself at a cosy B&B to farm hop around the entire area, sampling everything the region has to offer; Autumn is the best time to do that. This day trip destination just became the main event. Boom.
Bermuda
Tropical island in the Fall? Yes, please. Keeping on the fewer tourists train, visiting during the Autumn months is a solid choice for travellers looking to get away from the crowds. Warm temperatures are still a thing, and if you enjoy lobster, then take note that it also happens to be the beginning of spiny lobster season, a local island delicacy. So, hit the beach and have yourself a relaxing Fall extravaganza.
Greenville, South Carolina
Foodies can jump for joy in this southeastern town for the ultimate culinary event, Fall For Greenville [13], in October. A free outdoor event with live music, drinks, and, of course . . . all the food. Greenville, South Carolina is a hamlet between Charlotte and Atlanta and an upcoming destination. Access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, a 21-mile biking trail, and a quaint Main Street make this an ideal spot to soak up the Fall foliage, too.
Kyoto, Japan
For a big dose of culture with your Fall foliage, head to Kyoto, Japan and prepare to be wowed. Visit various temples adorned with Autumn hued leaves, like Daitoku-Ji, Tenryu-Ji (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and Nanzen-Ji, to name a few. The foliage scene in Japan is compared to the popular cherry blossom bloom in the Spring, so it must be good. Plus, sushi and ramen.
Capital Reef National Park, Utah
Southern Utah is packed with National Parks, and this under the radar one is a great spot to seek Fall foliage amongst the desert landscape and red rocks. Capital Reef National Park [14] not only has amazing hikes to take in the landscape, but also slot canyons to explore. Walk along the Fremont River trail, navigate the 25-mile (round trip) scenic drive, or hike the Hickman Bridge Trail.