Fall is a beautiful time of year, with the leaves changing and the cool weather rolling in. If you’re looking for an affordable place to visit this autumn, there are plenty of great options in the United States. From coast to coast, there are budget-friendly places to explore that offer a variety of experiences. In this post, we’ll share the 10 best and cheapest places to visit in the fall in the USA. From vibrant cities to stunning national parks, these locations will give you a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.
1) Alabama – Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, Alabama is a beautiful destination for a fall getaway. This charming beach town is home to stunning white sand beaches, amazing seafood restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. From kayaking and sailing to fishing, there’s something for everyone in Gulf Shores.
One of the most popular attractions in Gulf Shores is the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Here you can find all kinds of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. It’s also a great spot to watch sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs in the summer months.
For those looking to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the trails of the Gulf State Park or take a more challenging hike up the stairs at the nearby Baldwin County trailhead.
If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting Gulf Shores, there are plenty of hotel and vacation rental options available. The Grand Hotel offers a range of luxury accommodations, while the Gulf Shores Plantation Resort offers family-friendly suites and apartments.
No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Gulf Shores is an excellent option for a fall getaway. With its stunning beaches, amazing restaurants, and variety of outdoor activities, it’s sure to be a memorable trip!
2) Arkansas – Hot Springs
Hot Springs, Arkansas is a great destination for those looking to visit on a budget this fall. Located in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs offers visitors the chance to relax and explore nature at its best. The town itself boasts of various hot springs, giving visitors the opportunity to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters that have made this area so famous.
The town of Hot Springs offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular attractions is Bathhouse Row, a collection of eight historic bathhouses that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here visitors can take a soak in the healing thermal waters, explore interesting shops and galleries, and even try their luck at one of the casinos.
Outdoors enthusiasts will also love Hot Springs, as there are plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding trails at Lake Catherine State Park or enjoy canoeing and fishing on nearby Lake Hamilton. Hot Springs is also home to some of the best hiking trails in Arkansas, including the Hot Springs National Park Trail, which is located within walking distance from downtown.
Overall, Hot Springs, Arkansas is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an affordable, yet exciting fall getaway. With its hot springs, outdoor activities, and historic attractions, Hot Springs offers something for everyone – making it an ideal destination for anyone who wants to get away from it all this fall!
3) Colorado – Rocky Mountain National Park
If you’re looking for a place to explore the best of nature and enjoy spectacular views, then Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is the perfect destination for you. The park boasts more than 355 miles of trails, towering peaks, diverse wildlife, and stunning wildflowers. You can find an abundance of activities to keep you busy including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and camping.
Rocky Mountain National Park is also known for its breathtaking views. Its highest peak, Longs Peak, reaches 14,259 feet in elevation, giving visitors the opportunity to take in panoramic vistas. For the most stunning views, take a drive on Trail Ridge Road. This iconic route winds its way up to the alpine tundra, with beautiful meadows and jagged mountains as far as the eye can see.
In addition to exploring the sights of Rocky Mountain National Park, you can also have some unique experiences. Take part in a ranger-led program such as a moonlight snowshoe hike or a sunrise kayak tour. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, join a guided rock climbing expedition or sign up for a backcountry camping trip. Whatever you choose to do here, you won’t regret it.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to visit in the fall. With the changing leaves and cool temperatures, this is the ideal time to explore the park’s scenic beauty. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone. So grab your pack and get ready to explore one of America’s best national parks.
4) Connecticut – Mystic
Located on the eastern coast of Connecticut, Mystic is an ideal fall destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. With its quaint colonial-style buildings, historic sights, and maritime heritage, Mystic provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing vacation.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-see during your visit. Here, you can explore more than 19 acres of property that includes preserved ships, galleries filled with maritime artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even demonstrations of traditional boatbuilding. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a performance by one of Mystic’s resident shanty singers!
When you’re ready to stretch your legs, you can stroll along the banks of the Mystic River or take a walking tour of the charming downtown area. You’ll find plenty of great shops and restaurants here that feature local specialties, such as the famous Mystic Pizza.
No matter what you choose to do in Mystic, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy during your fall visit. With its beautiful scenery and great attractions, Mystic is the perfect place to spend some time away from home this season.
5) Florida – St. Augustine
St. Augustine, Florida is the perfect place for a fall getaway. Located on the northeast coast of Florida, St. Augustine offers plenty of warm sunshine, beautiful beaches, and plenty of fun activities. From its historic downtown to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, there’s plenty to explore. St. Augustine is also home to the oldest shopping district in the United States, so there are lots of unique shops to explore as well.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, St. Augustine has some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. The pristine sands of Anastasia State Park make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and hiking. Just a few miles away, you can explore Vilano Beach for gorgeous sunsets and great surfing opportunities. For those who are feeling a little more adventurous, there are plenty of kayaking and paddleboarding options too.
For a unique cultural experience, visit St. Augustine’s historic district. As the oldest city in the United States, it’s full of amazing architecture and interesting sights. You can take a trolley tour or join a walking tour to see all the great sites the city has to offer. You can also check out St. Augustine’s Colonial Spanish Quarter Museum, where you can explore the city’s fascinating history and culture.
No matter what you’re looking for, St. Augustine has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore some of the oldest buildings in America, you’ll be sure to find something enjoyable and affordable in St. Augustine this fall.
6) Georgia – Helen
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly getaway this fall, consider visiting Helen, Georgia. Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, this quaint little town is the perfect place to explore during autumn. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing and there’s plenty to do.
For outdoor activities, the Chattahoochee National Forest provides many hiking trails. You can also go tubing or rafting down the Chattahoochee River. If you prefer more leisurely activities, visit the nearby Unicoi State Park. Here you can enjoy fishing, swimming, and biking. There are even opportunities for horseback riding!
If you’re looking for something more cultural, Helen offers an array of shops and galleries. It has a Bavarian village theme, with cobblestone streets and traditional German architecture. You can take a walking tour and visit some of the historic buildings, or explore the quaint local businesses. There are also several wineries where you can taste some local wines.
No matter what your interests are, Helen is the perfect destination for a fall getaway. With its beautiful scenery, unique culture and affordable prices, Helen is sure to please everyone.
7) Idaho – Coeur d’Alene
If you’re looking for a great place to visit in the fall, then Idaho – Coeur d’Alene should be at the top of your list! Located in northern Idaho, the city of Coeur d’Alene is a charming and picturesque destination that offers visitors plenty of fun activities during the cooler months.
As soon as the temperatures start to dip, Coeur d’Alene becomes a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or camping, there are plenty of trails and lakes to explore in the area. If you’re into wildlife viewing, then head to one of the many wildlife refuges to watch elk, bald eagles, or deer. You can also spend an afternoon exploring some of the area’s many parks and botanical gardens.
Aside from outdoor activities, Coeur d’Alene also offers plenty of cultural attractions. Take a stroll along the city’s downtown riverwalk, take a ride on the historic City Tour Train, or visit one of the area’s many museums and art galleries. You can also experience the charm of old-fashioned train travel with the Coeur d’Alene Railroad Depot tour.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay while you’re in Coeur d’Alene, then consider staying in one of the city’s many resorts or hotels. From lakeside retreats to ski chalets, there are plenty of great lodging options available.
No matter what type of fall getaway you’re looking for, Coeur d’Alene is sure to have something for you. With its breathtaking scenery, wonderful cultural attractions, and wide range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that this Idaho destination is such a popular destination during the autumn months.
8) Illinois – Galena
Galena, Illinois is a great place to visit in the fall for those looking for a cheap yet memorable experience. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River and nestled in the hills of Jo Daviess County, Galena is one of the most popular vacation spots in the Midwest.
Galena is rich in history with many landmarks that date back to the Civil War era. The town also features an array of attractions such as shops, restaurants, and wineries that are perfect for a fall getaway. Enjoy a day at one of Galena’s historic sites like Ulysses S. Grant Home, Belvedere Mansion, or Casper Bluff Archeological District or take a scenic drive along the Mississippi River.
For outdoor lovers, Galena has many hiking trails and recreational areas like Chestnut Mountain Resort and Apple River Canyon State Park. Spend the day exploring the stunning nature of the area or spend a few hours out on Lake Galena. There are also several golf courses to choose from if you’re looking for a relaxing round of golf.
At night, head to downtown Galena where you’ll find plenty of entertainment options. Take a tour of local breweries or have dinner at one of the many restaurants that serve up traditional Midwest cuisine. Finally, end your evening with some live music at one of the bars or cafes in the area.
Galena is a great destination to explore in the fall if you’re looking for an affordable getaway. With its rich history and culture, beautiful scenery, and unique attractions, it’s no wonder why this charming town is so popular with tourists.
9) Kentucky – Louisville
Located in the heart of Kentucky, Louisville is the perfect fall getaway for travelers looking for a combination of nature and city life. With the Ohio River running through it, Louisville has a great variety of outdoor activities to choose from. Whether you’re looking to take a riverboat cruise, explore caves, visit a winery, or simply take in the beautiful fall foliage, Louisville offers something for everyone.
The city is also known for its many cultural attractions. From the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to the Muhammad Ali Center, there are plenty of things to do and explore. The Historic Frankfort Avenue is a popular destination for visitors, offering great restaurants and pubs to enjoy the nightlife. Finally, take a stroll around Waterfront Park, the perfect place to admire the changing leaves and take in all that Louisville has to offer.
With plenty of attractions to choose from, Louisville is one of the best and most affordable places to visit in the fall. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, Louisville has something for everyone.
10) Michigan – Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is one of the best and most affordable places to visit in fall in the USA. Located in Michigan’s upper peninsula, Mackinac Island offers beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. During the fall, the island turns into a bright orange and red blanket of color, making it a stunning destination to experience the changing of the seasons.
In terms of outdoor activities, visitors can explore Fort Mackinac, take a bike ride around the island, or go hiking in the nearby state parks. There are also many unique shops and restaurants around the island that offer a variety of experiences. For those looking for a bit of adventure, visitors can try kayaking or horseback riding around the island.
Additionally, Mackinac Island is known for its impressive culinary scene. From traditional American fare to upscale seafood restaurants, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re in the mood for a lobster dinner or a homemade ice cream cone, there’s something special waiting for you on Mackinac Island.
No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, Mackinac Island is sure to have something for everyone in the family this fall. With its breathtaking scenery, great food, and plenty of activities, Mackinac Island is an excellent destination for a budget-friendly getaway in the USA.
Final Words
Fall is a beautiful time of year in the USA, and there are many great places to visit. From the beaches of Alabama to the mountains of Colorado, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, these 10 best and cheap places to visit in fall in the USA are sure to provide you with a memorable experience.
No matter where you choose to go, make sure to pack accordingly, plan ahead, and above all, enjoy your trip! Fall is a season filled with stunning natural beauty, and it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the great outdoors. With a little bit of planning, you can make your fall vacation unforgettable.
F&Q
Q1: What are the best and cheapest places to visit in fall in the USA?
A1: There are many great places to visit in fall in the USA, some of the best and most budget-friendly options include Alabama’s Gulf Shores, Arkansas’ Hot Springs, Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, Connecticut’s Mystic, Florida’s St. Augustine, Georgia’s Helen, Idaho’s Coeur d’Alene, Illinois’ Galena, Kentucky’s Louisville and Michigan’s Mackinac Island.
Q2: Are there any activities I can do while visiting these places?
A2: Absolutely! Each destination offers a wide range of activities to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. Depending on your interests, you can go hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking, and more. You can also explore historic sites and take in the local culture.
Q3: What is the best way to get around these destinations?
A3: The best way to get around depends on the location. If you’re visiting a small town or city, renting a car is usually the easiest option. For larger cities and national parks, public transportation and rideshare services are usually the most convenient and economical choice.
