Many of us have been carefully watching how the new tariffs will impact our budgets. That’s why we’ve all been looking for getaways closer to home for the most part, or ones where we can get a bargain. Fall is a great time to stay on budget whether you want to take the kids apple picking and leaf peeping. You can head to many (mostly) free festivals. And, if you’re an empty nester, you could do a trip to Europe when fares are lower, and summer crowds have gone.
Fall is also a great time to get away if your kids (or grandkids) aren’t in school yet. Lodging prices are generally down (except for leaf peeper packages!) and the weather is still fabulous in places like Cape Cod and Corpus Christi.
THERE’S NO BETTER TIME THAN THE PRESENT TO TRAVEL
We live in challenging times. Work, school, the economy, environment, politics, and global conflicts provide a constant flow of bad news on our always-on news sources. Maybe that’s why Americans recently surveyed for the June 2025 Allianz Partners suggested they are more likely to take shorter trips with increased use of sharing economy services. They also are seeking sustainable travel options.
Luxury travelers now favor fall travel, according to the Virtuoso 2025 Global Luxury Traveler Report, with fall bookings up significantly. Gen Z and Millennials use travel as a catalyst for personal transformation, the report suggested, with the opportunity for immersive experiences.
To plan time off together before the winter holiday, please read on for 24 fabulous fall getaways compiled with our partners at The Family Travel Forum.
FALL FOR HARVEST FESTIVALS THIS YEAR
Make a seasonal harvest festival your destination this year. It’s the most affordable getaway because activities are mostly) free, these rural towns usually have cheap motel lodging, and featured foods are healthy and sold cheaply. Live music performances and craft exhibits typically round out the fun. Go for the apples and cranberries, corn, livestock, or pumpkins. Older family members will enjoy the many autumn Oktoberfest celebrations.
September Weekend Festivals:
For autumn in Dallas, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens put together displays with 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash of every size. The popular Pumpkin Village celebrates Texas towns from Sept. 20-Nov. 2 with its own maze.
A good bet for empty nesters is Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the country’s largest drawing some 800,000 people to Cincinnati Sept. 18-21 including music, The Running of the Wiener dogs, the world’s largest chicken dance, a family day (Sept. 21), all varieties of local eats, many celebrating German heritage and more.
According to Germanfoods.org, there are 150 Octoberfest celebrations in the US and Canada.
Another good bet for empty nesters is the Santa Fe Wine and Chili Fiesta Sept. 24-28 with over 60 participating restaurants and 90 winery partners.
London, Kentucky is the birthplace of Colonel Harland Sanders and celebrates all things chicken at the World Chicken Festival (Sept. 25-28.) See chicken fried up in the world’s largest stainless-steel skillet, watch Col. Sanders look-alikes or cluck at the chicken impersonation contest.
Car lovers flock to Telluride, CO for the Telluride Autumn Classic. Show off your vintage car Sept. 25-28. There is also a fine arts festival in the Mountain Village.
Elk Fest runs Sept. 27-28 in Estes Park, Colorado as a free festival that includes food, music, Native American traditions, and bugling contests. Stick around through October (known as Elktober) to see elk frequenting downtown streets and parks.
It’s all about cranberries in Warrens, Wisconsin, about 110 miles northwest of Madison. What’s billed as the world’s largest Cranberry Festival, Sept. 26-28. Try cranberry funnel cakes, tour a local cranberry marsh, buy local crafts (there are some 1,300 booths) and watch the parade.
October Weekend Festivals:
Celebrate corn at Sever’s Fall Festival in Shakopee, Minnesota weekends Sept. 13-Oct. 26. Shakopee is just 35 miles south of Minneapolis and boasts one of the country’s original corn mazes along with a corn pit playground, straw sculptures, music and treats like funnel cakes, bratwurst, and apples from the farm stand.
In the Midwest, Bayfield Apple Festival in Wisconsin (Oct. 3,, 4 and 5) draws people from all over the Midwest to watch apple peeling and pie contests, among the activities.
Every age can savor a sip and every note in Greenville, SC Oct. 10-12, at one of the Southeast’s signature events. The annual festival features exclusive tasting events, intimate musical experiences, cooking demonstrations, and wine seminars, as well as live concerts.
Farther West, one of our top festival picks overruns little Ketchum, Idaho Oct. 8-12. This rustic chic town of millionaires succumbs to cuteness during the five-day Trailing of the Sheep Festival. Celebrate sheep herding, a major industry in the state, as bands of sheep are moved from summer to winter pastures. Book ahead for the rancher talks, crafts and food fairs, sheepdog trials and much more. These woolly beasts parading through town are more fun than you ever thought possible.
Celebrate apples at the National Apple Harvest Festival in Biglerville, Pennsylvania. It’s celebrated on the weekends of Oct. 4-5 and Oct. 11-12 in Amish country. Taste all varieties of apple treats, browse more than 300 arts ‘n’ crafts vendors, watch chainsaw carvings, and peruse collections of classic cars.
Sonoma’s Harvest Fair (Oct. 11) has everything from winery competitions to cow-milking contests and the World Championship Grape Stomp where everyone can join.
For 63 years, California’s Half Moon Bay has called itself the World Pumpkin Capital. Celebrate all things pumpkin October 18-19 at the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival. Admiregiant pumpkins, the world’s largest pumpkin carving and pie eating contests for kids (as well as adults).
Less than 15 miles south of Portland, Oregon, the small community of Tualatin draws crowds Oct. 18-19 for its 21st annual Pumpkin Festival featuring pumpkin bowling and golf, a costume contest and even a Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Watch participants (chosen by lottery) steer giant pumpkins through a water course with a single kayak paddle. There will be a Medallion Hunt Sept. 25-Oct. 16 w3here treasure hunters can follow clues to find a hidden bronze medallion.
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF AUTUMN IN EUROPE WITH CROISIEUROPE CRUISES
As autumn paints the world in vibrant hues, CroisiEurope invites you to experience the season’s splendor through its specially curated fall river cruises. It is the perfect time to embrace the rich tapestry of European landscapes. Each itinerary has been crafted to highlight the season’s beauty in a relaxed, comfortable setting of river cruising.
Exclusive Offers
This season, CroisiEurope is featuring exclusive autumn offers that make exploring Europe’s rivers even more enticing. These special deals include discounted rates, complimentary excursions, and onboard perks designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of the Rhine, the charm of the Rhône, or the elegance of the Seine, these offers provide exceptional value.
Top Fall Cruise Itineraries
- The Rhine River: Cruise through the heart of Europe on the Rhine, where fall colors enhance the stunning scenery of medieval castles, vineyard-covered hills, and charming towns. Highlights include stops in picturesque cities like Strasbourg and Cologne, as well as excursions to renowned wine regions.
- The Danube River: Experience the Danube’s majestic beauty as it flows through Central Europe at savings of up to 50% off. From Vienna’s grand architecture to Budapest’s stunning nightscape, fall is a magical time to explore these cultural hubs and enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage along the riverbanks.
Dreaming of Christmas Magic – Start a new tradition
If you’ve got visions of sugar plums dancing in your head, CroisiEurope’s Christmas Market cruises provide a festive and unforgettable way to celebrate the season. These cruises glide through Europe’s most picturesque cities, renowned for their enchanting holiday markets. Imagine wandering through Strasbourg’s legendary Christkindelsmärik or Vienna’s beautifully adorned stalls, where you can shop for unique gifts, savor seasonal delicacies, and soak up the joyful atmosphere. Onboard, the festive spirit continues with holiday-themed décor, seasonal meals, and entertainment that brings warmth to the winter nights. CroisiEurope’s Christmas Market cruises offer the perfect blend of cultural exploration and seasonal cheer, all from the comfort of a river cruise, ensuring a memorable and joyous holiday experience.
If you’re traveling with multiple generations of your family, don’t forget about the Mulitgenerational Cruising Discount which can be applied to all Europe river cruises year-round.
Fall is also the perfect time to plan ahead for your 2025 Europe river cruise. CroisiEurope’s Early Booking discounts are in effect through September 30th.
TIME TRAVEL AT VIRGINIA’s HISTORIC TRIANGLE
Fall is a great time to visit outdoor interactive Living History Museums that take you back to different eras. Next year, Virginia’s Colonial Williamsburg is celebrating its 100th Anniversary since its founding as a museum of the 18th century by John D. Rockefeller. The planning has already begun for this milestone as well as the 250th celebration of U.S. Independence. Grab a cup of warm cider and a ginger cake and take a stroll down the most historic street in America, stopping to chat with free Blacks and slaves.
he Historic Triangle in Virginia refers to the area encompassing Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, which played pivotal roles in the early history of the United States. These three locations, situated on the Virginia Peninsula, are closely connected by the Colonial Parkway and offer a journey through different eras of colonial America and the Revolutionary War.
Jamestown: As the first permanent English settlement in North America (1607), Jamestown represents the earliest stage of English colonization. Visitors can explore Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum, and Historic Jamestown, the actual site of the original settlement, with ongoing archaeological projects. Explore life-size re-creations of a 1610-14 fort and Paspahegh Town that describes the culture of the Powhatan Indians. Climb At aboard a re-creation of one of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607.
At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, visit the re-created Continental Army Encampment to learn about the life of a soldier, medical treatment, camp live and more. Explore a Revolution-era farm based on a real-li8fe 18th century family, to help with chores. Yorktown is famous for the decisive Battle of Yorktown in 1781, where the British Army surrendered to the Continental Army, marking a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and the Yorktown Battlefield offer insights into this crucial moment in history.
At Colonial Williamsburg, you can explore 89 original buildings and the work of more than 20 historic trades including a harpsicord maker, milliner, weaver, wigmaker, blacksmith, cook and gardener. Ready to help in the fields? Participate in the daily activities of an 18th-century family at the Geddy House.
Prep for your visit with videos for kids as well as the award-winning podcast Ben Franklin’s World.
AMSTERDAM LOVES KIDS
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, museums, and bike riders, among other things. Make sure to enjoy a Rice Table (Rijsttafels) which serve a combination of dishes from all over the Indonesian islands, a relic from the time of Dutch colonization of Indonesia starting in 1602 and lasting until WWII when Dutch traders wanted to sample at home dishes from Java, Bali, Sumatra and other islands—everything from vegetables in peanut sauce to banana fritters, Indonesian pickles soybean cakes and much more. Restaurant Blauw is a great place for this experience.
Amsterdam is celebrating its 750th anniversary with a year-long celebration including special events, 750 digital stories told by Amsterdammers, interactive walks, and much more all leading up to the Oct. 27 anniversary.
We also discovered on a recent visit how kid-friendly Amsterdam’s museums are.(If you plan to see many consider the IAMsterdam card which gives you admission to some 70 museums and sites, including the Rembrandt House Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
The Rijksmuseum is the largest in Amsterdam, both in the size of the collection (over a million artworks and historic objects, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, attracting some 2,7 million visitors a year.
I love the museum’s Family Trail, suggesting the museum “is like a big castle full of hidden corners, stairs and countless artworks.” Kids are encouraged to, for example, walk until “you find a gallery with paintings of people.” Choose a portrait of someone poorly dressed and then consider how you could improve their looks. Perhaps a different hairstyle? There is also a Digital Family Quest for families to play together seeking the password as they meet challenges in different galleries.
At the Rembrandt House Museum. We are back in 17th century Amsterdam as we follow the interactive audio tour narrated by Rembrandt’s dog Kwast (which means brush in Dutch) We go from the kitchen up steep staircases to salon, sketching room, classroom and more. We follow Rembrandt’s life from his arrival as a celebrity artist to his forced departure 19 years later with his family when he was deeply in debt
We get a much more sobering trip time traveling back to the Netherlands during WWII and the Nazi Occupation at the Dutch Resistance Museum. There is an entire Junior Museum which tells the story of the occupation through the remembrances of kids—from the child of a Nazi leader to a young Jewish girl whose family must go into hiding to a youngster who is sent to live with another family. The captions are in Dutch but there is an audio tour in English and a scavenger hunt of sorts.
The Anne Frank House Museum, meanwhile, suggests you can prepare for a visit with tweens and teens by watching two videos which gives children an insight into life in hiding. There is also an Anne’s Story audio tour created for children between 10 and 15 and told from Anne’s perspective.
INSTEAD OF PARIS – LYON AND BEAUJOLAIS
Perfect for empty nesters or those traveling with adult kids and extended family. It’s easy to take the train to and from Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris where we stayed at the Hilton Paris Charles de Gaulle the night before our flight.
In Lyon, we stayed at the We are staying at the Sofitel Bellecour with our rooms overlooking the Rhone River, a central location and a fantastic breakfast buffet. Lyon, of course, is known for its gastronomy and we get a wonderful tour of the famous Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse by a Tours by Locals guide.
Lyon has 5300 restaurants including 17 with Michelin stars and 25 certified bouchons, traditional local eateries. In these traditional eateries, you can sample Lyonnais specialties in a decidedly casual atmosphere. Choose wisely and you will be surrounded by locals (Look for the cartoon image with a black hat that identifies official bouchons.
We toured the ancient narrow streets of the Traboule, where silk workers once toiled and where during WWII members of the Resistance hid guns and messages with a guide from Get Your Guide. We never would have found our way on our own.
If you plan to spend several days, consider the Lyon Card that gives you travel on public transport, a guided tour, admission to more than 30 museums, shows and discounts to other attractions. Fill your water bottle at more than 700 fountains; by local (Lyon is famous for the silk industry dating back centuries) by looking for shops that say “Fabrique a Lyon.”
A memorable day was spent about an hour outside Lyon in the wine country of Beaujolais sampling wines and enjoying a stupendous picnic overlooking a historic vineyard at Chateau des Bachelards. A wonderful Lyon-based company called My Travel Angel has arranged our all-day tour with our knowledgeable guide and wine expert. Our only regret: We couldn’t take home many of the delicious wines we sampled.
EXPLORE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CHARM
Autumn brings a special magic to Fredericksburg, Texas, where German heritage meets Texas Hill Country hospitality.
This is a perfect time to visit Texas Wine Country, with Fredericksburg at its heart. Many wineries offer harvest tours and grape-stomping events, giving visitors a firsthand look at the wine-making process. Don’t miss the chance to taste the fresh, just-pressed juice that will become next year’s vintage.
October ushers in Oktoberfest (Oct. 3-5) The town square transforms into a Bavarian village, complete with authentic German food, music, and, of course, plenty of beer. Join in traditional games like the barrel roll or test your strength in the stein hoist competition.
Wine enthusiasts will delight in the Texas Wine Month Trail throughout October. With over 50 wineries in the Hill Country, you can sip your way through the fall harvest, enjoying special tastings and events at participating vineyards.
As the weather cools, take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside. The rolling hills burst with autumn colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for orchard visits and pumpkin picking. Stop by Wildseed Farms, the largest working wildflower farm in the U.S., to see late-blooming flowers and pick up seeds to bring a bit of Texas home with you.
History buffs shouldn’t miss the National Museum of the Pacific War, which offers special fall programming honoring veterans. In November, the museum hosts a Veterans Day ceremony that’s both moving and educational.
HEAD TO SAN DIEGO FOR KIDS FREE DEALS
October brings the return of the 14th Annual Kids Free San Diego. Take advantage of the deals, free admission and added perks offered by San Diego hotels, restaurants, attractions, tours and transportation companies to kids 12 and under.
At the famous San Diego Zoo, for example, kids 11 and under get free admission, even to seasonal events like the fun lightshows and dance parties at HalGLOWeen.
See the panda pair, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, who arrived from China last summer.
Take your pick of 18 major museums in Balboa Park with 1200 acres that locals say is San Diego’s backyard with gardens, hiking trails, a miniature train, The entrance to the San Diego Zoo is here. The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park boasts Kid City for the youngest museum goers and more than 100 interactive science exhibits. Families also love the San Diego Model Railroad Museum and the San e Natural History Museum with exhibits on everything from insects to dinosaurs to geology.
Look for a Navy SEAL Museum to open this October downtown with immersive storytelling and galleries. Visit the USS Midway Museum, the historic aircraft carrier, and the floating Maritime Museum of San Diego with one of the best collections of historic vessels.
As the public outreach center for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium will bring you onto the world of marine research through interactive exhibits and the chance to get face to face with amazing sea creatures.
Check for autumn discounts at LEGOLAND CALIFONIA, with more than 60 rides, a water park, aquarium and more.
Heading to the beach? Take the Beach Bug shuttle service, an electric trolley that serves the coastline as well as the Balboa Avenue Transit Station. It costs $2.50, operates daily, and can be hailed through an app. Don’t forget your wetsuit.
Dry off at Belmont Park, a historic midway in the heart of Mission Beach. The beachfront amusement park added Shipwreck Cove, a new ride and play area, plus a new tower ride that offers beautiful views as well as thrills. From Sept. 9-Oct. 31, the Belmont annual Fall Fest takes over the boardwalk with free trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, live music, festive fall treats, family craft workshops and face painting.
Nearby at SeaWorld San Diego, strap into the Emperor, California’s tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster. In addition to kid-friendly rides like Tentacle Twirl and Aqua Scout, catch SeaWorld’s marine life exhibits and animal shows.
There are lots of great restaurants in San Diego. Make sure to enjoy some fish tacos!
THE GATEWAY TO GRAND TETON AND YELLOWSTONE
Last fall, we spent some time in Jackson Hole, WY, the gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. One highlight was the fantastic National Museum of Wildlife Art. In town, we loved the affordable Virginian Lodge, a short walk from Jackson’s town square, a big courtyard with a pool and hot tubs and offers including 20 per cent off on weekday nights. Outside of town and close to the national parks, Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa is offering a third night free during their value dates. Another deal valid until Oct. 12 includes a kids’ welcome amenity, $60 daily breakfast credit, and an America the Beautiful Annual Parks Pass (an $80 value.)
NEW ADVENTURES IN MOUNTAIN TOWNS
soak in hot springs, like Strawberry Park Hot Springs or the Old Town Hot Springs complete with water slides in Steamboat, CO . Glenwood Springs, CO, about an hour from Aspen, boasts the world’s largest hot springs pool as well as new Yampah Mineral baths with a collection of five new pools and a Sopris Slash Zone that plunges you downhill in an openair tube ride.
Waterville Valley, NH for example, boasts miles and miles of hiking and biking trails with plenty of choices for those whatever your fitness level. Try a unique swimming hole like Smarts Brook, just a little over a two-mile hike.
There are alpine slides (the longest in North America at Park City, Utah’s Adventure Park), mountain bike trails and lessons (like at Smuggler’s Notch in Vermont and the Snowmass Bike Park).
Love giant lakes with your mountains? Check out Lake Tahoe deals. They include a Summer Renewal Stay with a $100 resort credit with a two-night stay that’s good until the end of September. Your tweens and teens will like the new street-style skatepark at Bijou Park in the City of South Lake Tahoe and cyclists will appreciate the bike repair stations adjacent to the park at nine locations.
Just remember those rain jackets!
SING ALONG WITH THE CROOKED ROAD THROUGH APPALACHIA
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the so-called Crooked Road is the place to savor old timey, bluegrass, folk, gospel, and other musical styles -– live and in museum exhibits. The changing colors of autumn add visual beauty to a culturally rich fall getaway.
First stop is the Floyd Country store which has defined the lively melody of The Crooked Road since 1910. There’s a small stage hidden behind the souvenir stands and jam jars, not too far from the soda fountain and newsstand. Plan your trip to be there for the Floyd Friday Night Jamboree, an unforgettable, up-close way to experience local and traveling musicians who contribute their tunes. The genre’s popularity, thanks to artists like Taylor Swift, has enabled the store to feature performances and workshops other days, too.
Take a scenic tour along the Blue Ridge Parkway. At mile marker 231, you’ve reached Galax, just a 2-hour drive from Roanoke, VA; Charlotte, NC; Bristol, TN and a little less to Princeton, WV. Allow a half day or more to explore the nearby Blue Ridge Music Center. Savor the sounds of its exhibits and the Midday Mountain Music performances daily from 12-3pm. Hike the well-groomed trails through a thousand acres of Blue Ridge Forest.
Explore the Carter Family Fold, home to Johnny Cash’s musical in-laws plus many other landmarks. The road leads to classic country cooking’ and crafts shopping. Just follow our guide to Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.
START YOUR ENGINE FOR LEAF PEEPING ROAD TRIPS
Autumn means it’s peak leaf season somewhere, and our directory explains how that varies by region and year depending on the weather. You will see fall color in early September in some places and as late as November in other parts of the country. The kids won’t want to just look at the colors, however. You need to get out of the car, explore, and collect some leaves. Ask how many different kinds of leaves they can find. How many colors do they see on a hike or bike ride?
It’s all aboard for the Pumpkin Patch Express on the historic East Broad Top Railroad in Pennsylvania. Join in the fun and ride behind a century-old steam engine full of games, pumpkins, beautiful scenery, vintage trains, and more! The three-hour experience includes a 60-minute, nine-mile round-trip train ride through the scenic Aughwick Valley to enjoy 90 minutes at the pumpkin patch on October 11/12, 18/19 and 25/26. There are plenty of fall family activities as well. Prices begin at $28 for adults and $22 for children under 12 years of age. Reservations are strongly recommended. So, plan now to put on your Halloween costume and get aboard.
Head to the mountains for colors and festivals. Breckenridge, Colorado boasts some of North America’s earliest fall colors. Located at 9,600 ft. above sea level, the area’s splendid groves of aspen trees begin their annual transformation to brilliant gold in early September. Aspen’s famous Maroon Bells are also a gorgeous place to hike. From Albuquerque, NM Drive into the Sandia Mountains for the views of the yellowing Aspen trees.
In Kentucky, see the fall foliage at the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest with 16,140 acres of woodlands and 40 miles of trails.
All aboard the Hamilton County Harvest Train — this scenic train ride through the heart of Indiana showcases the vibrant fall foliage and picturesque landscapes. Running every weekend in October, the train departs from Forest Park in Noblesville and offers a unique way to experience the changing leaves
Experience all the fall colors along Indiana’s South Shore, a 30-minute drive from Chicago and home to the Indiana Dunes National Park.
In the Adirondacks of New York State, there are several areas with peak foliage viewing. Here’s a place to invest in a cozy fall getaway with loved ones and hike out each day to savor changing leaves.
Owned by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, the Chief Standing Bear Trail is a crushed limestone rail-trail spanning 22.9 miles from Beatrice, NE to the Nebraska/Kansas border. The trail is best experienced in late September/early October when the air is cooler, and the foliage is in peak color.
See fall foliage by bicycle as Tennessee Tourism has a statewide road cycling program, BikeTN with 52 curated cycling routes throughout the state.
In mid-October, leaf peepers flock to Bar Harbor, Maine where you can also kayak, bird watch and visit Acadia National Park. (Check out Eileen’s Kid’s Guide to Maine and Kid’s Guide to Acadia National Park.)
Fall Foliage in the Ozark National Forest is at its peak in October. Later in October and November, you’ll see peak fall colors at the Columbia River Gorge in Washington. One of the most scenic drives in the country is in Fall along New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle, connecting the towns of Taos, Eagle Nest, Red River, and Questa. USA Today tracks every state’s peak fall color dates, as predicted by Farmer’s Almanac.
PURSUE AUTUMN ADVENTURES IN LONDON — ON A BUDGET
Budget carriers are making vacations in pricey London more affordable. Jet Blue now flies over the pond, promising “the most legroom in coach.” Low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic also flies to London Gatwick from LA, San Francisco, Washington, DC, and Boston. Or use your miles to fly with the family. London is often the first overseas trip many families take because it is easy (no language barrier!) Yet there is so much to see and do.
The weather is mild, museums are free as are the city’s spectacular gardens including Kew Gardens, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath with its changing colors. Buckingham Palace will be open for tours until the end of September; Bonfire Night fireworks takes place around the first week of September. Head to the Bloomsbury Festival Oct. 17-19
Visit London touts 25 don’t miss free sites and attractions. Free museums include the fantastic Imperial War Museum, where you can see where Churchill slept. The amazing British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, National Gallery, and the Museum of London are packed with priceless treasures. Take a free stroll through Hyde Park. Window shop at markets including Old Spitalfields, Camden Market and Portobello Road for cheap souvenirs. Borough Market is known for terrific but cheap eats. Besides eateries and artisans, Covent Garden Market features a roster of street performers.
Plus, there are many budget places to stay Other House South Kensington, offers apartment-like accommodations with hotel services and a private members’ club.
What should you splurge on? Let’s not forget all of the amazing theater. Ticket prices are much cheaper than seeing shows on Broadway in New York. The fantastic “The Making of Harry Potter” experience just outside London at the movie studio where the films were shot is a must see for all Harry Potter Fans.
BOSTON BECKONS WITH FALL FOLIAGE AND FESTIVITIES
There’s no better time to visit Boston than during the crisp autumn months. The city comes alive with vibrant fall colors, exciting events, and that quintessential New England charm. Start your visit with a stroll through Boston Common and the Public Garden, where the changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for photos. For prime leaf-peeping, head just outside the city to the Arnold Arboretum or Blue Hills Reservation.
Fall brings a packed calendar of events to Beantown. Don’t miss the Head of the Charles Regatta in mid-October, where thousands of rowers compete on the Charles River. History buffs will love the Haunted Boston Ghost Tours that run through Halloween, exploring the city’s spooky past.
Teens will enjoy the campus tours at Boston’s many famous universities. Use this guide to plan ahead and book tour times
For classic fall fun, take a short drive to nearby apple orchards like Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow for pick-your-own apples and fresh cider donuts.
Sports fans can catch the Red Sox wrapping up their season at iconic Fenway Park or cheer on the Patriots at Gillette Stadium as football season kicks into high gear. After a day of sightseeing, warm up with a bowl of creamy clam chowder at historic Quincy Market.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FALL AND LEARN TO CAMP
Many families know we are big fans of the Appalachian Mountain Club, a non-profit that has been making outdoor adventures affordable and accessible to everyone for the past 149 years. They run 12 chapters located in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, DC. In addition to protecting the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, they promote the enjoyment and understanding of the outdoors.
Kyle McCarthy recently experienced one of the AMC themed weekends run by volunteers from the New York / New Jersey AMC chapter. Her family rented a shelter and borrowed tents and sleeping mats to turn it into their upstate tiny house. Did you know most AMC Centers are stocked with hiking gear, loaner backpacks, walking sticks and more to help newcomers get comfortable with the most helpful gear.
There were plenty of young couples with infants and toddlers, and even more grandparents with young grandchildren, plus a wedding party at her weekend. Outdoor Centers like the one in Harriman State Park with its shallow kids’ pool and sand beach, are ideal for non-swimmers.
If you’re inspired to join as her family did, you’ll help support the stewardship of the world around you, and equity in the outdoors. And once you’re hooked, you’ll take that passion around the world, whether in an RV or on your own two feet.
LAST CHANCE FOR NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ALASKA DURING SOLAR MAXIMUM
Scientists estimate that the space cycle known as solar maximum recently completed its 11-year run, though above-average solar activity typically persists. This fall and winter may be your last, best opportunity to see the Northern Lights at their peak in North America.
Combine Alaska’s long winter nights with the increased intensity and frequency of solar flares – plus milder weather — to appreciate why fall is the time to go. Our recent Thanksgiving family trip covered the territory from Anchorage to Fairbanks, with a spectacular rustic stay at the Cold Foot Camp above the Arctic Circle. Read about our Top 10 Things to Do in Alaska and how to do them. Check out the current offerings from Northern Alaska Tour Company.
Gondwana Ecotours is an upscale tour operator running several 7N Alaska Northern Lights Adventure trips between September 2025 and March 2026. How cool is it that you can stay in a comfy family-owned lodge and get wake-up calls if/when the Aurora Borealis acts up!
FALL FOR AN EMPIRE STATE OF MIND
New York is famously the city that never sleeps. Fall, however, is especially busy because the United Nations’ General Assembly and Debate sessions take place Sep 9-29, 2025. Guided tours of the UN are available to ages 5+. Having world governments in town supports Climate Action Week and the Global Citizens Festival. Their free Sep 27th event in Central Park is headlined by The Weekend and Shakira, alongside performances from Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, and more. Apply for tickets.
Broadway Week, with two-for-1 tickets to all the top shows, returns Sept. 8-21. Order tickets now as they are expensive but still sell out quickly.
If you haven’t checked out one of the newest neighborhoods, Hudson Yards in the West 30s, stroll over with the kids. Every Wednesday in September at 5pm, New York City–based dancers and choreographers will celebrate social dance traditions from salsa to line dancing in shows, classes, and open dance parties at Manhattan West, outdoors off 10th Avenue and 32nd Street. Drop into the new Moynihan Building at Penn Station across the street to peruse the delightfully sophisticated Food Court.
Any time this fall, pick up a New York CityPASS and save 41% at five of the Big Apple’s top attractions. Let the kids decide if they want to experience the observatories at Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center or at the classic Empire State Building. No one wants to miss the American Museum of Natural History. Some families will choose the artsy Guggenheim Museum over the 9/11 Memorial (a highlight in fall.)
Be sure to look up if you’re in town the week surrounding that momentous date for Tribute in Light, the annual memorial to those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center collapse on Sept 11, 2001.
SCOTTSDALE IN FALL
The weather Is cooler and there are still great hotel deals. Scottsdale is famous for its spas (more than 50), 200 golf courses, resorts, and eateries. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, for example, boasts five restaurants, six pools, waterslides, golf, and a huge spa. Pumpkin Fest lasts until Oct. 31 with hay mazes, pumpkin paths and more. In Scottsdale, go stargazing, enjoy moonlight yoga or visit the Desert Botanical Garden where you can enjoy sunset sound meditation with the melodies of singling bowls and gongs. Witness more than 1,000 Southwestern butterflies. Feel the rhythm of faraway places at the Musical Instrument Museum through immersive galleries.
As fall and winter approach, golfers everywhere start plotting their escape to warmer weather – and few places shine brighter than Scottsdale. The best part? Getting there (and getting your clubs there) is now easier than ever. ShipSticks offers convenient, affordable, door-to-door shipping for golf clubs and luggage, backed by an on-time guarantee – allowing you to skip the airport stress. So before your next trip, check out these expert tips for shipping golf clubs and arrive in Scottsdale ready to tee it up under the desert sun.
Scottsdale is a great bet for a couples getaway, a girlfriends’ getaway or for families. Scottsdale has long been touted as a spa mecca and is revered for its Sonoran Desert setting, said to have healing powers. Its reputation as a place of health and wellness dates back hundreds of years to the Native Americans, who considered both the body and spirit to be equally important when assessing overall health. It was also the ancient tribes who discovered its curative climate, medicinal plants, and therapeutic herbs – even turning prickly cacti into soothing balms.
DIAMOND DESTINATION: CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA
You don’t have to be honeymooners to appreciate Cape Town, Africa’s southernmost region, and a favorite add-on for safari travelers. It’s one of the continent’s most scenic places, with state parks marked by pockets of fynbos, a unique vegetation that thrives in the Mediterranean climate. Go now, since Robben Island, the historic island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years of incarceration, reopens in September after a comprehensive restoration. Check out their Instagram @robben_island for the latest news.
Many locals stay for the lifestyle: terrific surfing on the beautiful sandy coast, recreational opportunities, and a wine scene centered around Stellenbosch and the less touristy Paarl. Ride the city’s tram to the top of 3,500-foot Table Mountain for outstanding views of the city and coastline – weather permitting.
If you get lost, ask the locals since most speak English, though you’ll hear a blend of Malay, Dutch, French, Portuguese, and African languages, too. Juna Art Tours makes your fall getaways even richer with their focus on murals, graffiti and local history through community-oriented walking or biking tours. Another sustainable project, !Khwa ttu, is 40 miles north of the city. The 2,100-acre conservation area showcases the ancient San culture, lifestyle, and heritage.
HALLOWEEN SPECIAL EVENTS WORTH THE TRIP
Hope you have your costume ready!
Halloween events start in September these days whether you want to hit a Halloween-themed festival, mega-theme park event, visit a haunted house or stay in a “haunted” hotel.
All October, Salem, Massachusetts, a.k.a. Witch City, celebrates its haunted happenings with costume parties, magic shows, movie nights, ghost tours and a Zombie Walk Oct. 5 for all ages.
Over in Boston, guests can book the Salem in a Day from Boston: The Legacy of Witches tour. Learn about the history of the Salem Witch Trials, as well as numerous pop culture moments and movies set in Salem.
Head to upstate New York for fall foliage and frights. Sleepy Hollow country in New York’s Hudson Valley is where The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze includes more than 7,000 illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins. Guarantee a good night’s sleep in the village of Sleepy Hollow, famous for Washington Irving’s classic “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
THEME PARK AND HAUNTED HOUSE FRIGHTS
There are Halloween doings at major theme parks, including Disneyland and Disney World which also host several fall events. Howl-O-Scream is at both Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Williamsburg, Virginia parks. Halloween Horror Nights, one of the scariest events we know, takes over Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood. This year, Universal Monster mavens are on the hunt as Saskia Van Helsing and the Bride of Frankenstein go up against Dracula’s daughter and her monstrous mavens. Ghostbusters can keep you from getting iced in another haunted house.
Autumn leaves are a Northwest specialty, so it’s the perfect time to visit lesser-known Idaho. Base your family at the scenic Coeur d’Alene Resort. The nearby Silverwood theme park features Scarywood, the seasonal makeover for ages 12+ which has been voted one of “Halloween’s Scariest Thrills” by the Travel Channel. Stick around till mid-November when the resort’s annual lakefront “Journey to the North Pole” holiday lights event begins. Learn more about Idaho’s family Halloween events here.
Book The Stanley Hotel‘s night ghost tour – this historic hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining,” is said to be at its most haunted in fall.
From California to Rome, City Experiences offers numerous spooky and fun-filled urban adventures. They’re perfect starters for Halloween travel across the globe. Out on the West Coast, book the Alcatraz Night Tour and break out of jail in San Francisco. In Rome, explore the Crypts, Bones & Catacombs: An Underground Tour of Rome for an unforgettably ghoulish night.
Currently in the us there are over 1200 professional haunted houses and 300 theme parks that operate horror themed
THEME PARK HALLOWEEN FUN FOR YOUNGER KIDS
You don’t have to go far to celebrate Halloween with memorable special events that keep the focus on family and younger children.
Boo at the Zoo events, for example, occur all around the U.S., from the Denver Zoo to the San Diego Zoo. Check out the scheduled programs at the Philadelphia Zoo, San Antonio Zoo, Little Rock Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, the Roger Williams Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, and the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, among others. Search for a zoo or aquarium near you holding family Halloween events at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums website. Just like your local museums and theme parks, you may have to book reservations in advance.
Kid-friendly scares by day and grownup frights at night are part of the annual holiday fun at many theme parks. Fright Fest Halloween at the Six Flags amusement parks is just one example. Since Cedar Fair merged with Six Flags, their total number of properties is now 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine hotel resorts. From late September to early November, weekend days at most parks are devoted to Kids Boo Fest, a “G-rated” adventure with costume parties, trick or treat trails and a Monster Mash dance party. It’s especially affordable for season pass holders. At Six Flags Great Escape, for example, you can spend $29 for a Halloween extravaganza or $59 for an annual pass. Invest in a Parks Passport to visit any of the legacy Six Flags for the next year.
Younger kids will love the clever Brick or Treat trails at the LEGOLAND New York, LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND California parks. In addition to costumed mascots and decorated rides, these parks show seasonal Lego films so grownups can rest their feet.
Weekends until the end of October, bring little ones to the SeaWorld Spooktacular in San Diego, San Antonio, or Orlando. Save the after-dark Howl-O-Scream (select dates at all parks; separate tickets required) for your teens.
Another family favorite is the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place in Pennsylvania. There’s more California family fun at Knott’s Berry Farm, where Knott’s Scary Farm returns at night on select dates through October.
AUTUMN’S THE PEAK SEASON FOR HATTIESBURG AND SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
Autumn is a perfect time to visit Hattiesburg, Mississippi, especially if you’re considering attending the University of Southern Mississippi. The humid summer gives way to crisp fall air, making it ideal for exploring campus and the surrounding pine forests.
Plan your visit around Southern Miss football games to experience the excitement of game day. Tailgate with locals in the District, sample Mississippi barbecue, and cheer on the Golden Eagles at M.M. Roberts Stadium.
Nature lovers will want to experience the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile rails-to-trails path through piney woods ablaze with fall color. Bring bikes or rent them in town for a memorable family ride. If you stay at the Longleaf Piney Resort, guests can enjoy this tony home resort and complimentary bike rentals.
When scheduling any college tour, keep these tips in mind:
– Visit while classes are in session to get a true feel for campus life
– Sit in on a class in your intended major
– Talk to current students about their experience
– Explore the surrounding town – you’ll spend 4 years here!
– Check out housing options, both on and off campus
– Schedule meetings with financial aid officers
– Research any special visit programs for prospective students
PAST PRESIDENTS HAVE A LOT TO TEACH US
There are many Presidential homes you can visit around the country as well as 22 Presidential libraries.
In Boston, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a top site for visitors with special family programming, a recreated Oval Office, exhibit on the space program and more. The Museum bring to life President Kennedy’s 1000 days in office through projections, interactive displays, re-mastered films, and original artifacts.
Many families include Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home, when they are visiting Washington DC because it is so close. Check out the tiny Mount Vernon in Miniature—all 22 rooms. Make sure to download the app or pick up an Adventure Map so you can solve the puzzles as you walk around. Besides touring the mansion, there is a special Enslaved People of Mount Vernon tour that highlights the lives of the community who built and ran Mount Vernon.
Farther south in Virginia on a hilltop outside Charlottsville is Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and plantation. There’s a hands-on activity center and family friendly tours the first four weekends in October. Guests might also meet Thomas Jefferson as portrayed by veteran historical actor-interpreter Bill Barker. Use the “Slavery at Monticello: Life and Work on Mulberry Row” guide and the “Exploring Monticello: A Guide for Young People” to lead the way. (For more: check out the new third edition of The Kid’s Guide to Washington DC.)
In New York’s Hudson Valley, you can visit Hyde Park, Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s home, where he famously served Britain’s King and Queen hot dogs during their visit. At Val-Kill, Eleanor Roosevelt entertained some of the 20th-century’s most influential world and civil rights leaders. More than 1,000 acres of gardens and trails are spectacular during fall. The free National Park Service app offers interactive maps and self-guided activities of the first Presidential Library.
In Chicago, the Obama Presidential Center is planned to open in 2026. But you can visit Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield, IL, the first and only home Abraham Lincoln owned.
Also in the Midwest is the Harry S. Truman Library & Museum in Independence MO which recently completed a massive renovation.
The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum is in College Station, on the campus of Texas A&M University. Through artifacts, film, photographs, documents, music, sound effects and interactive videos, this special museum experience encompasses much of U.S. history since 1941 and a special section is dedicated to First Lady Barbara Bush and her efforts on behalf of literacy, AIDS awareness and prevention, and volunteerism.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library is in Dallas and explores the eight years he was in office including exhibits on 9/11. The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library is on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin.
And in California, you can visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
4 Money Saving Tips When Visiting National Parks.
- Learn more about free admission days here.
- Grandparents have the opportunity to obtain a lifetime Senior Pass for $80, granting them the ability to bring their entire group into a park. This pass not only provides access but also ensures the enjoyment of the park experience for all.
- Pick up a free Junior Ranger workbook to keep kids busy at the park’s gift shop, visitor center, or download online.
- The educators’ section on each national park site, specifically tailored for teachers organizing field trips, can serve as a valuable resource for families as well. Remember to print out worksheets in advance to avoid the need to purchase guidebooks during your visit.
No matter where your travels take you, remember to respect nature by following all posted instructions and signs. Be sure to recreate responsibly, leave no trace, and follow the guidelines in place at all parks when you visit. By doing so, we can ensure that our national parks remain beautiful for years to come.
Remember that getting to Estes Park is part of the adventure. As Nicky details in her article Road Trip Itinerary – Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park (One Day Trip), the drive from Denver offers stunning mountain views and quaint small towns along the way. Consider taking the scenic Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for an extra dose of fall colors.
NEURODIVERSE TRAVELERS FIND MORE INCLUSIVE OPTIONS
As the travel industry evolves, inclusivity has expanded beyond race, gender, and religion to include neurodivergent travelers. Hyatt Hotels, for example, recently completed a survey with Kulture City that found nearly 25% of individuals in the U.S. have a sensory need or an invisible disability. To assist them, Hyatt is training staff to understand the needs of guests who self-identify with disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, or attention-deficit disorder. At the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla in Jordan, a Certified Autism Center, the hotel kids’ club and playroom are designed to minimize sensory stimulation. Hyatt hotel websites provide 3D room tours so that neurodiverse travelers can familiarize themselves with new spaces before arrival. The Hyatt House Seattle Bellevue is one of several Hyatts that has loaner headsets and fidget toys available. Additionally, hotel staff are trained to be flexible in assigning less noisy or lower floor rooms, fast check-in experience, and more accommodations.
Other resources include Autism Double Checked, which vets and certifies airlines and destinations for autism awareness and accommodations. They believe the service staff at any company that has been certified as ‘Autism Aware’ must have training, understand the needs of families in this situation, and must be prepared to answer questions before you book and travel.
Autism Speaks has developed an Autism Friendly Designation and an employee-training program. Both programs are committed to providing the highest quality of customer inclusive service and support for people with disabilities, including autism.
“Rather than about what your child cannot do, focus on what your child can do, “ suggests Sarah Marshall, owner of TravelAble Vacations, a travel agency for accessible travel, with a focus on families traveling with autism or medical needs. Here are other handy tips on how to cope when traveling with someone with special needs.
Now, entire towns are becoming autism friendly. Visit Visalia, located near Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, is one. The state has worked with destinations to create an autism road trip that includes only places that are Certified Autism Centers, such as The Grammy Museum and the newly opened Sesame Place in San Diego. Traverse City, MI has become the first Autism-certified travel destination in Michigan. Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia is the country’s first to make RightHear technology available to visitors. Visitors with low-sight or vision disabilities can access real-time audio assistance at no cost through their iOS or Android devices, in up to 26 languages. Audio guidance describes highlights along the path while also orienting visitors to exactly where they are in the park.
Several recreational groups design different programs for children with special challenges. Research the options because special needs program fees are usually calculated on a sliding scale so there are many affordable choices.
As inclusion becomes an industry priority, additional resources are being developed in tourism. Most of the major theme parks, for example, are accessible for those with disabilities. If you are coping with dietary needs or food allergies, Family Travel Forum’s guide to dining at theme parks informs you of allergen-free alternatives.
Next season, check out special adaptive program at mountain resorts like the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, CO and the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah.
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