Most people love to travel in the summer, but fall could arguably be the most convenient vacation season. Granted, if you love the beach, summertime travels are a must. However, if you like to go sightseeing and explore nature, fall weather is the absolute best. It is not too hot nor too cold to enjoy the scenery. The foliage also undoubtedly contributes to the magical experience, even when the orange leaves are painted with frost. There are so many exquisite US destinations for a family-friendly fall vacation. Whether you enjoy the cool weather or prefer to visit some warmer states, there is plenty to choose from.
Starting your vacation
If you are a lover of the foliage season or simply have some vacation days saved up, it is the best time to have a fun trip with your family. The options for travel in the US are boundless. You might prefer to go on a road trip, or you might have plenty of time to take a flight to a farther destination. Go over some great options with us that will help you and your family make that decision for a fall vacation.
New York, New York
Although it is always great fun to visit the Big Apple, they say New York City is the most beautiful in the fall. The summer heat can be unbearable in the concrete jungle, but the beginning of fall is just perfect. You will be able to enjoy long walks in the city but also in one of the many parks New York has to offer. The trees will change colors, and the scenery will be breathtaking. Stay in one of the many hotels near Central Park, and you will be amazed by the views. Visit the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens for fall blooms and explore the Highline for some stunning views of the city. If you are there at the end of October, go ice skating at Rockefeller Center and take part in the Halloween Parade. Your kids will be thrilled with all these awesome activities. Don’t forget the big tree lighting ceremony closer to the holidays.
Grand Canyon, Arizona, a family favorite
An excellent idea for a family-friendly fall vacation. Visiting during this season will help you escape the heat and, more importantly, the hordes of tourists from all over the world. It will make the experience all the more precious, and finding accommodation for the whole family will not be close to impossible. If you are flying with children, you will not have to spend a fortune on this otherwise budget-friendly destination. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the top family destinations. Everyone will find something to enjoy without fail. There are many activities for nature-enthusiasts. In addition to that, this natural wonder offers some lighter hiking trails as well as a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
This is by far one of the best fall destinations in the US. It is only a two-hour drive from New York City or Philadelphia, so even for a day trip, it is worth it. You can witness some fantastic foliage here and take nature hikes with your family. Visit the Ricketts Glen State Park, and you will experience incredible natural beauties. You can explore hiking trails of varying difficulty lined with stunning waterfalls. Your kids will be thrilled to visit the animal park with a petting zoo and an indoor and outdoor waterpark. The Poconos offer year-round fun and exploration for the whole family.
Yellowstone National Park
Visit this amazing place in October and November when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. You will see an abundance of wildlife and plenty to explore. The park offers visits to mountains, waterfalls, and canyons. Additionally, you can enjoy some incredible hot springs and geysers. One of the most famous ones is the Old Faithful, and it erupts every 30 to 110 minutes—pretty impressive. Aside from all that, you and your family will find it very hard to be bored in Yellowstone. The area is enormous and offers all the wonders of nature in one place.
Visit Hawaii for a family-friendly vacation
So you have considered all the chilly options for the fall, and they’re just not your cup of tea. Who could blame you—especially if you live in a state that does not get a lot of sunshine. Visit Hawaii instead and you will have a vacation that many dream of. For the warmest fall month, go in September. It is the perfect time to avoid summertime masses and have some of the beaches to yourself. For one of the top Hawaii islands, stay on Maui. Or, instead, go island hopping with your family and explore the endless natural beauties of Hawaii.
Orlando, Florida
When you think of a family vacation, Walt Disney World has to be one of the first things that come to mind. No matter how old your kids are, they will have a blast. And you will have some good fun too. Once you have spent enough time there, you can move on to one of many theme parks in Orlando—there is something for everyone. How about Sea World Orlando or, even better—The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Parks & Resorts? The whole family will have a memorable vacation with plenty of options for all tastes. After you have spent some time in Florida, it won’t be hard to fall in love with the place and want to move to the Sunshine State. If you decide to live here, take some time and explore all that sunny Orlando has to offer. Perhaps even visit some other wonderful cities in Florida. You will turn your Florida fall vacation into a full-time one, and you will not look back. ♥
Have a superb family vacation
No matter which destination you decide on for your family-friendly fall vacation, you will be hard-pressed to make a mistake. Whether you are looking for a nature hike with the little ones or want to relax by the beach, the US has an abundance to offer your family. Regardless of what your needs are for a vacation this year, fall is an amazing season to make lasting memories.
Where would you like to travel to when you plan your next vacation?
FT&PD
Suz
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Debbie Beattie says
Hawaii North Carolina and Orlando are ones I’ve been too and my niece loved them
Micheline says
I love to travel in the Spring and Fall, I find the Summer too hot. The other months are just more enjoyable.
Ed says
Great destinations here. Feeling very fortunate that my family and I have visited Orlando and Hawaii from this list. Yellowstone and Grand Canyon are on the must visit list for sure.