There’s something undeniably magical about October in the USA—a month where the air turns crisp, landscapes glow golden, and even the most small and quirky towns seem to come alive with charm. As someone who’s chased fall across countless states, from the winding backroads of New England to hidden mountain byways, I’ve found that this is the season when the American outdoors truly dazzles. It’s not just about leaf-peeping; it’s about discovering unexpected gems, vibrant cities, and timeless places that stir the soul. Whether you’re planning a nostalgic road trip or a new kind of adventure, October offers a chance to explore your favorite corners of the USA in their most vivid and unforgettable form.
Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
My trip to Harper’s Ferry in West Virginia last month was a charming immersion in historic town life, a special time when breathtaking fall foliage blanketed the surrounding Appalachian mountains, turning 19th-century streets cozy and atmospheric.
Seasonal ghost tours galore and small-town events filled the cool, crisp autumn air—from the Scottish-inspired Highland Games, Fall Foliage Adventure Race, to Halloween festivities like family-friendly pumpkin carving, fireside story-time event, and craft fair.
I drove 1.5-hours from Washington D.C. for a long weekend of leaf-peeping along the Maryland Heights Trail and the famous Appalachian Trail midpoint, soaking in breathtaking views from Jefferson Rock and discovering Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Inside the Visitor’s Center (Address 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425), a detailed Map of the Location in Northeastern West Virginia, eastern United States highlighted the ideal Vibe—Historic, scenic, peaceful—and an Average temperatures window of 10°C–18°C.
Among the many highlights, Staying at the gorgeous historic boutique Light Horse Inn, proud of its Revolutionary-era roots, where the welcoming staff shared tales of its days as a tavern and stagecoach stop, sealed the experience.
Visitor centre Adreess: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Map Location: Northeastern West Virginia, Eastern United States
Location: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Vibe: Historic, scenic, peaceful
Average Temperature: 10°C – 18°C
My favorite highlight: sipping hot cider by the fireside at Light Horse Inn while mist rolled over the Appalachian mountains at dawn.
Asheville, North Carolina
October in Asheville, North Carolina felt like a special time to visit a truly charming city, tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the air turned crisp, the foliage was at its peak, and the brilliant fall colors lit up scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway like an artist’s canvas.
From mild, pleasant weather stretching from September through November, to atmospheric hikes through colorful trails in Pisgah National Forest, the vibe was refreshingly laid-back and creative. Every corner was alive with seasonal festivals, buzzing markets, and mountain-town charm—from Asheville Oktoberfest, LEAF Festival, and the Lake Eden Arts Festival, to the family-friendly Eliada Fall Festival, Corn Maze, and the energetic Halloween Bar Crawl.
Over my four days, I flew into Asheville Regional Airport and stayed at the Insta-worthy 4-star Blind Tiger, took a drive through the Biltmore Estate for its iconic seasonal displays, and visited Lake Lure, where the famous Dirty Dancing lift scene was filmed.
And let’s not forget the food—Dining at Rhubarb, a chic, farm-to-table eatery, where the delicious Two Brooks Farm Wild Rice and Mushroom Pirloo stunned my palate, followed by sipping a pumpkin-spiced latte and a freshly baked banana muffin at the quirky BattleCat Coffee Bar.
Visitor Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Map Location: Western North Carolina, Southeastern United States
Location: Asheville, Blue Ridge Mountains
Vibe: Creative, outdoorsy, laid-back
Average Temperature: 18°C – 22°C
My favorite highlight: Catching golden hour over the Blue Ridge Parkway after a spontaneous stop at a mountain overlook with live fiddle music playing in the background.
New England: Autumn’s Quintessential Canvas
My October trip across New England lasted a whole month, and as a digital nomad, I soaked in the perks of slow travel through this beloved region where fall arrives like a painter with a bold brush—laying a breathtaking canvas of leaf-laden countryside. From quaint, small towns in Maine and Vermont to the historic lanes of Massachusetts and Connecticut, the scenic drives, cool temperatures, and bursts of fall colors made every mile feel like a postcard.
I drove just two hours from Boston Logan before exploring Newport, Rhode Island, then followed the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire for more breathtaking foliage and scenery. Seasonal events lit up each state—Topsfield Fair, Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off, Mount Snow Oktoberfest in German-style, Fall Fest in Maine, and the Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular at McLaughlin Garden and Homestead.
I strolled Salem’s Haunted Happenings, visited The Pickin’ Patch in Avon, Connecticut, and even boarded the famous Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train.
Visitor Center Address: Discover New England, 75 S Main St, Unit 7, PMB 81, Concord, NH 03301, USA
Map Location: Northeast – includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island
Location: New England Region
Vibe: Quaint, historic, cozy, seasonal charm
Average Temperature: 7°C – 20°C
My favorite highlight: Staying at the gorgeous, historic, boutique Wilder House, where a vintage Airline Radio, roaring wrought iron fireplaces, and a quirky games room set the scene before a heavenly breakfast of gingerbread batter pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor.
Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Visiting Monument Valley in October was truly a jaw-dropping experience—cooler temperatures and clear skies made for perfect scenic drives and guided Navajo tours through dramatic red rock formations. As the golden desert light fell over the landscape, its surreal and cinematic beauty felt amplified by the fewer crowds of the peak season.
I drove two hours from Arizona, staying an extraordinary three days, exploring iconic formations like the Mittens and Totem Pole, tracing the 17-mile Valley Drive, and catching sunset views at John Ford Point.
Visitor Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
Map Location: Arizona–Utah border, Southwestern United States
Location: Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Vibe: Majestic, cinematic, deeply spiritual
Average Temperatures: 16°C – 21°C
My favorite highlight: Hiking the popular Wildcat Trail—a two hour journey around West Mitten Butte—with nothing but silence, sand, and sacred stillness.
Chicago, Illinois
A fun visit to Chicago in the heart of fall is the kind of month that keeps you coming back—the city’s parks and tree-lined avenues were at their peak, ablaze with dazzling color under mild, dry, and crisp skies that gave the city a wonderfully cozy vibe.
The city buzzed with seasonal events like Open House Chicago, the Chicago International Film Festival, and Halloween celebrations lighting up hip neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park, all the way to the glowing Navy Pier Pumpkin Lights.
After flying into Midway International Airport, I spent four days sampling bold brews at Marz Community Brewing, devouring a slice of Pumpkin Chai Spice Pie from Justice of the Pies Bakery, and strolling through the flaming maples of Millennium Park. A moonlit architecture cruise on the Chicago River, followed by a wild 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Davis Theater, made the nights just as epic as the days.
Visitor Center Address: 301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616
Map Location: North-central United States
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Vibe: Urban, energetic, cultured
Average Temperature: 13°C – 18°C
My favorite highlight: Sipping a Lychee and Elderflower Martini atop the Rooftop at Nobu Hotel, the city views were absolutely incredible, just like the Dining—those unique, tasty banana blossom tacos at Bloom Plant-Based Kitchen were unforgettable.
Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania
The Allegheny National Forest truly wowed me this month with its dramatic leaf-peeping magic; as trees cloaked the rolling hills and dense hardwood forests, the transformation began in late September, blooming into a sea of gold by mid-October.
The crisp, cool air was made for hiking and scenic drives along the Scenic Byway, revealing breathtaking views of changing leaves mirrored in the calm waters of the Allegheny Reservoir.
I drove 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh and stayed for a gorgeous three days, hiking the fiery fall foliage of the Minister Creek Trail, catching sweeping autumn views from Rimrock and Jakes Rocks Overlooks, and unwinding on the peaceful Longhouse Scenic Byway.
Visitor Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street, Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
Map Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania, Northeastern United States
Location: Allegheny National Forest
Vibe: Serene, rustic, nature-filled
Average Temperature: 10°C – 15°C
My favorite highlight: Biking the scenic Jakes Rocks Overlook via the Mountain Bike Trail, taking in incredible, panoramic views of the forest, rock formations, and the shimmering Allegheny Reservoir.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
A laid-back beach town like Gulf Shores, Alabama, in October hits that sweet spot after the summer crowds have faded—the warm Gulf breezes make it ideal to swim in turquoise ocean waves, relax on the white sands of Orange Beach, and enjoy water sports with fewer people and a more local feel.
From family-friendly theme parks to great deals on accommodation, there’s plenty of fun to explore, especially during peak-season events like the Oktoberfest 5k, National Shrimp Festival, and Alabama Festival of Flavor.
After landing at Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), I drove 1.5 hours and stayed for a full week, splitting time between Gulf Shores Public Beach, the quieter West Beach, and a magical dolphin-watching boat tour from Orange Beach, before wandering the shady trails of Gulf State Park.
Visitor Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Map Location: Gulf Coast, Southern Alabama, Southeastern USA
Location: Gulf Shores, AL
Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, beachy
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Joining a beach yoga session with Gulf Shores Beach Yoga—the sociable energy, ocean views, and challenging poses in a rhythmic vinyasa flow made it an unforgettable start to each day.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado during fall was nothing short of stunning—an alpine wilderness alive with colorful foliage, where golden aspen trees lighting the mountainsides made each trail feel like a painting in motion.
With elk in full rutting season, their echoing bugling carried through quiet valleys, while the summer crowds had dwindled, letting me savor scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road before snowfall sealed it off for the season.
Flying into Denver International Airport (DEN), I drove two hours northwest to the park entrance near Estes Park, where I spent a beautiful four days hiking the high-altitude trails like Bear Lake Loop and Ouzel Falls, pausing for incredible panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and wide valleys.
Visitors Information: 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
Map Location: North-central Colorado, Western USA
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Vibe: Wild, peaceful, awe-inspiring
Average Temperature: 4°C – 13°C
My favorite highlight: Seeing the awesome, mysterious Stanley Hotel from the tramway—knowing it inspired Stephen King’s The Shining made this film fan’s heart race in a very special moment.
Austin, Texas
As a fun October trip, Austin Texas rewarded me with comfortable temperatures that replaced the lingering summer heat, turning the city into a fantastic playground where fall Halloween events kept the streets buzzed with live music, outdoor patio dining, and a lively atmosphere.
The packed calendar of annual celebrations—from Austoberfest, the colorful Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, and the sociable Austin’s Park n’ Pizza Halloween Fest to the writer-centric Austin Film Festival, family-friendly Pumpkin Nights Festival, and the scary House of Torment haunted house attraction—made every block crackle with energy.
Touching down at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), I launched into fun-filled four days of wandering historic 6th Street, tasting craft beer in hip craft breweries, hiking to hidden cascades in McKinney Falls State Park, and hunting for vinyl and vintage in the quirky shops along South Congress Avenue.
Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
Map Location: central Texas, south-central USA
Vibe: Creative, energetic, laid-back
Average temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My personal highlights: a trendy stay at the 4-star The LINE hotel, sipping rooftop cocktails with Za’atar Bread at P6, and Dining on spicy Choripapas loaded with vegan chorizos, a zesty peach-bourbon smash, and true Tex-Mex flair at Eldorado Cafe.
Arches National Park, Utah
In October, the perfect time to visit, Arches National Park Utah became a red-rock wonderland: the scorching summer heat mellowed into pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking and photography, while red rock formations glowed beneath softer autumn light and even the most popular trails felt less crowded than the peak season.
I flew into Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY)—there’s also Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)—then drove the 90 minutes to the park hub at Moab, settling in for a unique three days of sunset solace at Delicate Arch, weaving among the spires and arches of Devil’s Garden, coasting the Scenic Park Road, and staying out late to stargazed beneath clear skies free of light pollution.
Address: U.S. 191 North, Moab, UT 84532
Location: south-central US
Map | Vibe: Creative, energetic, laid-back | Average temperature: 15°C – 24°C
My favorite highlights: Joining a free ranger guided hike—an interesting session where I learnt how ephemeral pools formed by rare rainfall help desert plants, animals, and tiny insects stay alive amid the sandstone giants.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
Driving the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia in October was hands down one of the most stunning road experiences I’ve had—each winding mountain road was blanketed in fiery layers of red, orange, and gold leaves, brushed by the crisp air of the season. With scenic overlooks around every curve and peaceful spots for hiking trails, this stretch of autumn drives is some of the best in the country.
The wildlife felt just as alive—less elusive than expected, I spotted deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears foraging for food as I meandered through the higher elevations. After landing at Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO), I drove 3.5 hours and stayed for a week, stopping at cascading highlights like Looking Glass Falls, the towering Grandfather Mountain (among the highest peaks in the park), Sliding Rock, Linn Cove Viaduct, and the ethereal Richland Balsam Overlook.
I found charm in the quaint, cozy mountain towns of Asheville, Banner Elk, and Black Mountain, where the fall rhythm runs deep.
Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900, Richmond, VA 23219
Map Location: North Carolina & Virginia, Southeastern USA
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway
Vibe: Serene, scenic, natural
Average Temperature: 13°C – 21°C
My favorite highlights: wandering the picturesque Ecco Adesso vineyard, sampling Shenandoah Valley wines, especially a bold, peppery Cabernet Franc, and feeling brave enough to cross the mile-high swinging bridge on Grandfather Mountain—the highest of its kind in the country.
Flagstaff, Arizona
My October road trip through Flagstaff, Arizona was the kind of crisp-air escape I didn’t know I needed—I absolutely loved this high-elevation mountain city, where fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and vibrant fall colors painted every view in rich detail. The golden aspen leaves lit up scenic drives, especially along Snowbowl Road, and the crisp mountain air added to the cozy, seasonal charm that lingered everywhere from coffee shops to forest trails.
There were plenty of seasonal events to enjoy—Oktoberfest, the family-friendly Pumpkin Walk, the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, and Celebraciones de la Gente, a vibrant celebration of the history and culture of Mexico. I stayed for three days, driving historic U.S. Route 66, leaf-peeping, and taking in the dramatic views at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. In downtown, I found a buzz of live music, buzzing craft breweries, and quirky, independent stores that perfectly balanced Flagstaff’s outdoorsy spirit with its urban creativity.
Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Map Location: Northern Arizona, Southwestern USA
Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Vibe: High-altitude, cozy, outdoorsy
Average Temperature: 15°C – 21°C
My personal highlights: Indulging in warm pretzels and sampling craft beer at Mother Road Brewing Company, especially their popular Tower Station Roadside Grove—a true local’s favorite and my new one too.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
My fall break in October swept me into Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, a stunning wilderness where golden aspens and fiery cottonwoods ignite the valleys, while bugling elk echo through crisp autumn air; the summer crowds were gone, leaving the snow-dusted Teton Range as a breathtaking fall backdrop, yet temperatures stayed comfortable for all-day hiking among lively wildlife—with active bears foraging hard before hibernation.
Touching down at Jackson Hole Airport, inside the park, I spent a gorgeous four days tracing colorful loops past Taggart Lake and the Jenny Lake trails, spotting strutting moose in the Snake River Valley, cruising the scenic Teton Park Road for peak fall foliage, and pausing at snow-kissed peaks mirrored in Oxbow Bend and the barn silhouettes of Mormon Row.
Visitor centre Adreess: Park Headquarters address, 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
Map Location: northwestern Wyoming, Western USA
Location: Grand Teton National Park
Vibe: Majestic, rugged, pristine
Average Temperature: 7°C – 13°C
My favorite highlight: Photographing the fall Golden Hour—from sunrise to blazing sunset—when warm lighting turned every ridge impossibly vibrant.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii in October was the kind of dreamy fall destination that delivered everything I craved—warm, sunny weather, but less humid, thinned crowds, and lower hotel rates, making the island’s peaceful beaches, colorful snorkeling, and scenic drives feel like a private paradise wrapped in a relaxed atmosphere.
Flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), I spent a blissful 10 days soaking up relaxing vibes at Napili Bay, diving into turquoise waters, and taking in a packed calendar of festive events like the Maui Fair, Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch, and the gourmet Hawaii Food and Wine Festival. I chased waterfalls and sun along the Road to Hana, trekked the cooler trails of Haleakalā National Park, and dined on fresh, local food at the family-friendly Maui County Fair.
Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
Map Location: Central Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, USA
Location: Maui, Hawaii
Vibe: Tropical, relaxed, dreamy
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My personal highlights: Staying at the incredibly dreamy Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux, with its romantic, boutique setting, daily yoga classes, a modern spa, and interactive mixology classes that blended flavor with ocean breeze.
Door County, Wisconsin
In October, Door County, Wisconsin felt like a picturesque peninsula in full seasonal bloom—fall colors were at full bloom, the crisp air made for scenic lakeshore drives, and charming towns hosted festive harvest events that made the entire trip an idyllic autumn escape.
I landed at Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport, drove just an hour northeast, and stayed for a full week, winding along the Highway 42 Scenic Byway to visit the waterfront town of Fish Creek, the cute shops in Egg Harbor, and the serene lakeside town of Baileys Harbor.
The seasonal events brought the area alive—family-friendly faves like the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival, Autumn Lighthouse Festival with guided tours, and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay, complete with a small-town parade, local crafts, food, and festive stalls.
Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI
Map Location: Northeastern Wisconsin, Midwestern USA
Location: Door County, WI
Vibe: Charming, laid-back, picturesque
Average Temperature: 10°C – 16°C
My personal highlights: Sampling craft beer in the rustic-chic barn at Peach Barn Farmhouse and Brewery, where the fruity Silo Sisters Peach Sour totally stole the show.
Big Sur, California
While Big Sur, California often gets crowded in summer, October was the perfect alternative choice—with coastal weather clear, mild, and the crowds faded, I finally enjoyed unobstructed ocean views along Highway 1 bathed in breathtaking fall light that made every moment of photography feel downright magical.
I found better rates, easier availability on accommodation, and took in the local color through events like the Big Sur River Run, intimate Halloween celebrations, and Sunday music at the Pfeiffer Beach Motel.
I camped out at the cozy Big Sur Campground and Cabins, taking a trip just a 45 minute drive from Monterey, staying for three days. I hiked the redwood-filled trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, crossed the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, spotted migrating gray whales along the coast, and savored the peaceful moment at McWay Falls.
Visitors Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Map Location: Between Carmel and San Simeon (90 miles), Western USA
Location: Big Sur, California
Vibe: Dramatic, rugged, tranquil
Average Temperatures: 18°C – 24°C
My highlights: Driving over Bixby Creek Bridge and photographing it from Hurricane Point View, where I got a rare, unobstructed shot of the bridge against the teal-blue ocean background.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires, Massachusetts completely charmed me on a crisp October fall trip, where this affluent, scenic, and hilly region burst into brilliant fall colors across its rolling hills and charming towns. It was the perfect idyllic escape: the cozy vibe of harvest festivals, crisp-air hikes, and farm-to-table dining intertwined with world-class art, live music, and breathtaking autumn scenery.
The summer crowds had faded, accommodation rates were lower, and exciting events filled the calendar—Fall Foliage Festival, Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival, Hawthorne Valley Farm Fall Festival, and the family-friendly Lenox Apple Squeeze made every moment festive. I drove three hours from Boston and stayed for a long weekend, tracing the stunning foliage along the Mohawk Trail, climbing Mount Greylock for incredible views, and winding through cozy hubs like Lenox and Great Barrington.
Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202
Map Location: Western Massachusetts, Northeastern USA
Location: The Berkshires
Vibe: Tranquil, artsy, scenic
Average Temperature: 13°C – 18°C
My personal highlights: Staying at the gorgeous, historic, boutique Williams Inn, where I had a divine kale and feta omelete at their gourmet restaurant, then went apple picking at Bartlett’s Orchard, indulging in fabulous cider donuts and warm apple muffins straight from the oven.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas in October was a welcome break from the summer hot desert blaze—the scorching heat had eased into comfortable warmth, and the city felt perfect for exploring the Strip, catching outdoor events and concerts, and dining on rooftop terraces.
With the crowds thinned and hotel prices surprisingly great, I dove headfirst into seasonal festivals like the colorful Las Vegas Pride Festival, the lively Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest, and of course, the over-the-top Halloween festivities.
I strolled the LINQ Promenade amid spooky decorations, hit the wild Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, and even joined a chilling ghost tour of the abandoned mining town in Goodsprings—like stepping into a real-life Scooby-Doo scene.
Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
Map Location: Southern Nevada, Southwestern USA
Location: Las Vegas
Vibe: Energetic, glamorous, entertainment-packed
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My favorite highlights: Going for the Grand Buffet at the MGM Grand—where food overflowed on plates, and I devoured Sugar Rush Pancakes decked in pink icing and actual lollipops—then laughing through the absurd yet brilliant Zombie Burlesque show at Planet Hollywood, complete with a twisty storyline starring the President of the United States… and zombies.
Charleston, South Carolina
My mini-break to Charleston, South Carolina this month reminded me why I always return—this historic, coastal city blooms in autumn with pleasantly warm weather, low humidity, and the summer crowds gone, leaving a tranquil charm that’s perfect for strolling historic neighborhoods beneath oak-shaded piazzas bathed in atmospheric fall light.
There were irresistible hotel deals, and the lively seasonal events kept the city buzzing: the MOJA Arts Festival, Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens, Charleston Beerfest, and the family-friendly Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch and Halloween events created a festive rhythm from dawn to dusk. After landing at Charleston International Airport, I wandered the historic French Quarter, admired sunsets at scenic Waterfront Park, and traced pastel charm along Rainbow Row and the grand trees of Boone Hall Plantation.
North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive, (800) 774-0006
Map Location: Southeastern South Carolina, Southeastern USA
Location: Charleston, SC
Vibe: Historic, charming, vibrant
Average Temperatures: 24°C – 29°C
My highlights: Staying at the stunning 4-star boutique Harbourview Inn, where thoughtful personal details like nightly milk and cookies—complete with plant-based options—made it feel like home.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio completely surprised me this month—a scenic, natural area filled with forest trails, river valleys, and vibrant fall colors glowing in the crisp air, it was perfect for hiking, biking, and even scenic train rides through a landscape in full fiery bloom.
With mild, comfortable temperatures and a cozy fall vibe, I couldn’t resist the seasonal events, especially the Szlays Sweet Corn and Farmers Market and the nostalgic Hale Farm & Village Harvest Festival. I drove 30 minutes from Cleveland, spent three days soaking in the photogenic trails, hiked to Brandywine Falls, captured breathtaking foliage views from Ledges Overlook, and followed the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath all the way to the quaint stops of The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway.
Address: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125
Map Location: Northeastern Ohio, Midwestern region, USA
Location: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Vibe: Tranquil, natural, picturesque
Average Temperature: 13°C – 18°C
My personal highlights: Checking out the local produce at the Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market—the Silver Bee Honey was downright divine and came home with me.
