Vrbo: where to go in October

Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Discover autumn's charm with these top picks

Home > Where to go > Where to go in October

 

Whether it's a beach escape, city break, or rural retreat, some of the best places to travel in October promise great deals and fewer crowds. For most destinations, October is low or shoulder season, so you'll often enjoy a more authentic experience and bag great prices on vacation rentals. From cozy mountain cabins among fall foliage to oceanfront homes with sprawling sea views, the best places to travel in October promise all this and more.

The arrival of fall sees destinations like Stowe and Jeffersonville ablaze with deep reds and golds as the leaves turn. Over in California, Sonoma is a must at this time of year. With the harvest in full swing, the region's wineries spring to life with seasonal celebrations, including wine tasting and live music.

If you're craving adventure and cultural encounters, some of the best places to travel in October include far-flung destinations like Cappadocia in Turkey. The pleasant fall weather makes this a popular season for a hot air balloon ride over its otherworldly landscapes. More one-of-a-kind experiences await in Kyoto, with the city celebrating its seasonal koyo festivities. Closer to home, Mexico's Los Cabos awaits with its sun-soaked Pacific beaches.

Stowe

Stowe, Vermont

#1 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Pack your cozy sweaters and hiking boots for Stowe. This idyllic Vermont mountain town steals the show as one of the best places to go in October thanks to its sublime fall colors. Be sure to hike or cycle down the Recreation Path. This spectacular trail runs through the middle of town and is awash with seasonal shades of red and orange. For more sweeping October views, venture up Mount Mansfield—the mild temperatures at this time of year make it the ideal time to experience Vermont's quaint rural landscapes. In town, the local harvest promises seasonal treats like pumpkin pie and fresh-pressed cider.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Stowe

hotels.com  Find hotels in StoweOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to StoweOpens in a new window

Austin and Lake Travis

Austin & Lake Travis, Texas

#2 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

As far as the best places to visit in October go, few destinations come close to Austin and Lake Travis. The Texan capital serves up sunny days in the mid-70s, making it the perfect time for paddling through limestone canyons and sailing across the lake. The region is a mecca for those seeking adventure. Zip-line over the sparkling waters, trek through juniper-scented trails at Pace Bend, or unwind at a Hill Country vineyard. Back in town, try delicious local brews at craft beer festivals and catch your favorite artists and bands performing at the city's world-famous live music festivals.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Austin

hotels.com  Find hotels in AustinOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to AustinOpens in a new window

Savannah and Tybee Island

Savannah & Tybee Island, Georgia

#3 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Savannah takes on a distinct vibe during fall. Take lantern-lit ghost tours through the city's spooky moss-draped squares and past its bewitching Victorian mansions. Over on Tybee Island, keep a look out for dolphins playing in the surf—October's one of the best times to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. For sweeping views over the Atlantic, be sure to visit the island's iconic lighthouse. With temperatures hanging around the mid-70s and refreshing coastal breezes, it's one of the most popular seasons to explore this picturesque corner of Georgia.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Tybee Island

hotels.com  Find hotels in SavannahOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to SavannahOpens in a new window

Sonoma

Sonoma, California

#4 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Sonoma County is one of the best places to travel in October if you're seeking a laid-back wine country escape. The California sunshine keeps the days warm in the mid-70s, setting you up perfectly for scenic drives through Dry Creek Valley's vineyards. For bracing outdoors adventures, hike or cycle through Annadel State Park's trails—the striking fall colors will stop you in your tracks. The Valley of the Moon Festival takes place each October, with grape stomping, live music, and wine tasting. For something a little more downtempo, pick your own pumpkins at local farms and lose yourself in sprawling corn mazes.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Sonoma

hotels.com  Find hotels in SonomaOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to SonomaOpens in a new window

New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana

#5 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Lively fall events position New Orleans as one of the best places to visit in October. Don't miss the city's spine-tingling Halloween parades through the Garden District, complete with elaborate costumes and spooky floats. If it's Southern cuisine you're craving, the food festivals won't disappoint. It's also the time of year when New Orleans's iconic music venues spring to life with everything from brass bands to jazz quartets and soul singers. After the festivities, lose yourself in the French Quarter's centuries-old streets and historic mansions or spot alligators in the Bayou. The pleasant fall weather makes it an ideal time to get out and explore.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in New Orleans

hotels.com  Find hotels in New OrleansOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to New OrleansOpens in a new window

Helen

Helen, Georgia

#6 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Helen's Bavarian charm and riot of fall colors make this alpine-inspired town one of the best places to visit in October. The season's crisp days and golden sun provide comfortable conditions for hiking through the majestic Chattahoochee National Park. Keep a look out for hot air balloons floating over the mountains—the annual balloon festival takes place each fall. Follow forest paths to thundering Anna Ruby Falls, reel in a catch on the mirror-like Unicoi Lake, or linger over a stein at the village's lively Oktoberfest celebrations. The Germanic architecture only adds to the vibe.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Helen

hotels.com  Find hotels in HelenOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to HelenOpens in a new window

Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina

#7 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Mild temperatures and exciting fall festivals earn Asheville its place on the list of the best places to visit in October. Hold on tight as you zipline through the mountain canopy or grab your hiking boots and venture down the trails that wind through Bearwallow. Closer to town, the North Carolina Arboretum's cultivated gardens are ablaze with fall colors, while the French Broad River is a favorite for those keen on rafting and kayaking. With average highs around 70°F and mostly sunny days, it's prime time for outdoor adventures. When you're not busy chasing adrenaline, Ashville's craft fair boasts regional artisans and live music.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Asheville

hotels.com  Find hotels in AshevilleOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to AshevilleOpens in a new window

Bretton Woods

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

#8 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

When it's a distinct blend of fall adventures and local heritage you're craving, Bretton Woods has to be on your radar as one of the best places to visit in October. The White Mountains turn the most extraordinary shade of red and orange while temperatures float in the comfortable 40s and 50s. It's one of the most picture-worthy times for a stroll in the woodlands. Take a guided nature walk through the White Mountain National Forest or explore the grand Mount Washington Hotel. The landmark's time-worn halls play host to authentic Halloween parties throughout October.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Bretton Woods

hotels.com  Find hotels in Bretton WoodsOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to Bretton WoodsOpens in a new window

Denver

Denver, Colorado

#9 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Enjoy fall sunshine and endless outdoor adventures in Denver. You can hike the pine-studded trails at Mount Falcon or catch open-air concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Back in the city, the annual American beer festival transforms downtown into a lively street party with craft pop-ups and live music. More seasonal charm awaits with Chatfield Farms' sprawling pumpkin patches and Denver Botanic Gardens' seasonal displays. Take a scenic drive through the nearby Rockies and seize the chance to go hiking and cycling before the snow hits in November.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Denver

hotels.com  Find hotels in DenverOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to DenverOpens in a new window

Portland

Portland, Oregon

#10 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Portland is a contender for the best places to travel in October for those seeking a blissful West Coast escape. With the mercury holding steady in the 60s, you can trek through Forest Park's pine-shaded trails without breaking a sweat. The NBA season kicks off at this time of year—watching the Portland Trail Blazers in action is a must when in town. Another major October event is the city's annual film festival, where you can catch independent movies and documentaries at historic theaters and even peek into local artists' creative spaces at Portland Open Studios.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Portland

hotels.com  Find hotels in PortlandOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to PortlandOpens in a new window

One Key

Members always get our best prices when signed in

Sign in
Dallas

Dallas, Texas

#11 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Outdoor adventures and pleasant temperatures thrust Dallas to the top of the list as one of the best places to visit in October. The State Fair of Texas takes over town at this time of year with stomach-dropping rides, award-winning food stands, and live entertainment that'll keep you dancing long into the night. With the temperature staying strong in the 70s, it's prime time for mountain biking the winding Katy Trail or kayaking on White Rock Lake's glass-like waters. The Dallas Arboretum's fall festival promises share-worthy photos with its towering pumpkin displays and spooky decorations.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Dallas

hotels.com  Find hotels in DallasOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to DallasOpens in a new window

North Conway

North Conway, New Hampshire

#12 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

With its historic railway rides and packed events calendar, it's no wonder North Conway stands out as one of New England's best destinations in October. Jump aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad's vintage trains and take in soul-stirring fall views of the White Mountains. For thrilling rides and entertainment, don't miss the annual Fryeburg Fair. You'll find plenty to do in town: Browse handmade crafts at the Valley's craft fair, soak up the postcard-worthy views of the mountains from Cathedral Ledge, or try seasonal produce at bustling farmers markets. October's mild weather is a great excuse to venture out on a bracing hike through the mountains.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in North Conway

hotels.com  Find hotels in North ConwayOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to North ConwayOpens in a new window

Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

#13 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

If you're craving a fall escape with one-of-a-kind cultural events and extraordinary heritage, then Kyoto has to be high on your list of the best places to visit in October. Mild temperatures in the low 70s make it one of the most pleasant months of the year to explore attractions like the Golden Pavillion and the Arashiyama bamboo groves. The centuries-old Jidai Matsuri event showcases Japan's rich heritage with colorful parades throughout the city, as mountain villages light up with spectacular fire festivals. The ancient capital's temples and castles take on an ethereal glow during special nighttime illuminations, while the gardens of Kiyomizu-dera are ablaze with fall colors.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Kyoto

hotels.com  Find hotels in KyotoOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to KyotoOpens in a new window

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

#14 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Reykjavik ranks among the top places to go in October for a fascinating Arctic adventure. As the nights draw in, this month marks the start of the Northern Lights season. Dash off to nearby lava fields at night to catch a glimpse of this bucket-list phenomenon. There are still enough daylight hours in October to soak up the raw beauty surrounding Reykjavik and a short drive takes you to thundering waterfalls and ancient craters. Trek through the moss-covered valleys of Thingvellir National Park, spot whales in Faxaflói Bay, or plunge into the steaming Blue Lagoon's mineral-rich waters.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Reykjavik

hotels.com  Find hotels in ReykjavikOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to ReykjavikOpens in a new window

Sydney

Sydney, Australia

#15 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

If you're looking for warm places to visit in October, Sydney has to be top of your list. The arrival of spring brings sunny weather and temperatures in the low 70s that are perfect for riding the waves at Bondi or catching a tan on Manly. The city turns a vibrant shade of purple with the jacaranda trees in bloom—the Royal Botanic Garden is one of the best places to take snaps of these seasonal flowers. Sydney knows how to celebrate Halloween, too. Hear haunting stories of the historic Rocks districts as you take a spine-tingling ghost tour through its Victorian-era streets.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Sydney

hotels.com  Find hotels in SydneyOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to SydneyOpens in a new window

Jeffersonville

Jeffersonville, Vermont

#16 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

The sleepy village of Jeffersonville boasts a distinct fall charm. Take the scenic gondola ride up Smugglers' Notch and be astounded by the seasonal colors—the forested mountains turn mesmerizing shades of red, orange, and gold each October. This state park promises bracing walks with its wooded paths and peaceful streams, too. Back in town, harvest season is in full swing. The annual fall festival showcases regional produce, with craft beer, local bands, and Jack-o-lantern carving. You can even visit local pumpkin patches to pick out your own.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Jeffersonville

hotels.com  Find hotels in JeffersonvilleOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to JeffersonvilleOpens in a new window

Yellowstone

Yellowstone, USA

#17 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Boasting some of North America's most extraordinary wildlife encounters, it's easy to see why Yellowstone ranks among the best places to visit in October. Pack your binoculars—this is peak season for wildlife spotting in the park's valleys and forests. You could witness bison herds migrating across meadows, grizzlies loading up on berries before winter, and bull elk battling it out during the rut. October's thinner crowds give you plenty of space to watch Old Faithful's dramatic eruptions, while temperatures in the 40s make for comfortable treks through Hayden Valley. The crisp sunny days and fall colors promise spectacular photos.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals near Yellowstone

hotels.com  Find hotels near YellowstoneOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to YellowstoneOpens in a new window

Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Türkiye

#18 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

Hop on a hot air balloon and float over cone-shaped rocks at sunrise—October's clear skies make it one of the best months for viewing the valleys from above. Milder temperatures mean comfortable conditions for exploring the Göreme Open Air Museum. Delve into this astounding UNESCO site with Byzantine churches carved into the rocks before ducking into fascinating underground caves, where ancient civilizations built entire towns. During October, the mercury reaches the 60s and 70s.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Cappadocia

hotels.com  Find hotels in CappadociaOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to CappadociaOpens in a new window

Shenandoah Valley

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

#19 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

With sunny days and highs in the 60s, Shenandoah Valley is one of the best places to visit in October for a bright fall getaway. You'll enjoy stunning weather for exploring Skyline Drive's winding roads and hiking up the Stony Man trail. Astounding views of the red and gold leaves await at the top. Venture down Dark Hollow Falls for a possible glimpse of black bears and wild turkeys—October is one of the best times of year to spot wildlife. In town, the apple harvest means seasonal treats like hot cider and delicious pies.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Shenandoah Valley,

hotels.com  Find hotels in Shenandoah Valley,Opens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to Shenandoah Valley,Opens in a new window

Los Cabos

Los Cabos, Mexico

#20 in Best Places to Visit in October 2025

At this time of year, Mexico's sublime Los Cabos makes the list best warm places to go in October. The days are hot, dry, and sunny, while temperatures rarely dip below 70°F at night. You'll enjoy lazy afternoons sunning on Lover's Beach, sunset cruises to El Arco, and evening strolls around Cabos San Lucas' elegant marina. This season also sees some of the region's most exciting events. Mid-month, get ready to join the parades and party at the Fiesta de Cabo San Lucas, before experiencing the colorful Day of the Dead celebrations toward the end of October.

 

vrbo  Find vacation rentals in Los Cabos

hotels.com  Find hotels in Los CabosOpens in a new window

Expedia  Find flights to Los CabosOpens in a new window

Methodology

We have curated these lists of top destinations by month by combining real booking data and expert insights. Some destinations were chosen based on actual booking data, reflecting popular choices for trips during a particular month. Additionally, our travel editors used their expertise to select other destinations, ensuring a well-rounded and inspiring list. This ranking is designed to provide helpful ideas and guidance for planning your trip in a particular month, offering a mix of trending spots and expert recommendations.

More vacation ideas