Wanna get away? Check out these destinations for an impromptu fall family vacay

Fall is in the air. Pumpkin spice lattes are back. Cozy sweaters. And…family vacations? You bet. This is actually a great time of the year to take a family fall vacation. 

Fall is shoulder season for popular destinations—the weather is mild, but not yet cold, the crowds have dispersed and many places offer pre-holiday discounts. Not to mention there are often school holidays during the fall for parent-teacher conferences, in-service days, and pre-Thanksgiving break. We know this time of year can be hectic, so we did some of the vacation planning for you. Whether it’s a week-long family vacation or a long weekend, there is something here for everyone.

Related: Pick your own adventure with these top 10 places to go with kids in the U.S. 

9 amazing places for a fall family vacation

1. Branson, Missouri in The Ozarks

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been itching to visit the Ozarks ever since Marty and Wendy Byrd stepped on the scene (though I do hope to avoid the drama of “Ozark.”) Summer is the most popular time to visit the Ozarks but fall brings lots of beautiful color and great deals. Not to mention, as The Points Guy says, Missouri is within a day’s drive of half the country.

2. Chicago, Illinois

As a hometown girl, I think fall is the best time to visit Chicago for a family vacation. The colors are gorgeous, the weather is crisp but not yet frigid, and the summer crowds have dispersed. Spend a day walking along the lakefront or touring museums like the Field Museum (my personal fave) or the Museum of Science and Industry, the Shedd Aquarium or Adler Planetarium. Ride to the top of Willis Tower (forever known as the Sears Tower to locals) or stroll around Navy Pier (make sure to ride the famous Ferris wheel). Flights to Chicago are plentiful so it’s possible to get a good deal on a flight from much of the country. 

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of the best places in the country to see fall colors. The weather is mild, though cool, so you can hike without dripping in sweat. Festivals of all kinds fill up weekends in the fall, and families can bike or zipline through the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are plenty of family-friendly lodging options, but Asheville’s stunning views and laid-back vibe make it a great place for vacation rental for your fall vacation.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Forget Mardi Gras, fall is the season to visit New Orleans. With cooler weather, strolling through the French Quarter and the city’s unique neighborhoods is a delight. Eat beignets or oysters (fall is oyster season) outside while listening to some live music. If your family is feeling extra brave, you can take a haunted history tour of the city.

5. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Visitors often flock to Colorado during the summer and the winter, but don’t sleep on Colorado in the fall. The fall colors are gorgeous but even if you miss peak leaf season, there is still plenty to do. You can hike the many mountain trails, visit Cripple Creek (a small mining town), go horseback riding or drive Gold Camp Road. If you want to splurge on an unforgettable adventure during your fall vacation, take a ride in a helicopter or a hot air balloon.

6. Austin, Texas

In addition to the quintessential fall activities like pumpkin patches and corn mazes, Austin’s warm-ish fall weather makes it a great place for fall camping (or glamping). Austin is home to several campgrounds and state parks just outside the city. And you can immerse yourself in celebrations for Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the Mexican holiday to celebrate, remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. Austin hosts several art exhibits, cultural events and musical performances from late-October to early-November. 

7. Dude ranch in Arizona

Fall is a great time to visit Arizona. The fall colors can last into late-November and the temperatures are comfortably warm during the day. If you want to splurge, Arizona has several dude ranches that can make for a great family adventure. Guests can go horseback riding, hike, swim or play golf.

Related: The 5 best all-inclusive Club Med family resorts 

8. Miami, Florida

Beat the holiday crowds and hang on to the heat of summer with a fall vacation to Miami. Temperatures get as high as 80F in October and November, and nights are still a warm 70. Enjoy the beach or stay at a vacation rental with an outdoor pool. If you live in a place that will soon be a frozen tundra (like I do), a fall trip to Miami will help you delay the inevitable winter chill for a little while longer.

9. Explore your own “backyard” with a staycation

You don’t need to go far to enjoy a fall getaway. Grab a map and draw a circle around the area within an hour or two drive. Close your eyes and pick a spot on the map. Spend a day or two exploring “your own backyard,” so to speak. Most towns have fall festivals and weekend activities. Even a night in a hotel can be a fun break for the family (bonus points if it has a pool). A farm stay can provide a little adventure, or consider a glamping site before the weather gets too cold.