best couple trip in october

28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a fall vacation. The hustle and bustle of the summer is gone. Most tourist destinations are like sleepy ghost towns waiting for the rush of holiday travelers. So if you’ve ever wondered where’s the best places to visit in October in the USA – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Traveling in the fall, and more specifically, October cannot be beat. It’s the shoulder season for many destinations across the states. That means less crowds and affordable prices. And bonus – beautiful fall colors across much of the USA!

Traveling in the fall is one of the best times to take a vacation. But not every spot is equally as great. That’s why this list of the best fall vacations in the US is highlighting cool spots you’ve seen before, and even better destinations you haven’t heard of. 

And by the way…I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list . However, I haven’t been everywhere yet (working on it!) so I enlisted some travel blogger friends for help creating this epic list. 

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best fall vacations in the US

This list is covering a lot of the country! From the west coast to the east coast and some spots in between, this map shows a visual, which can be useful when planning your fall getaway.

Best places to visit in October in USA

October is a fabulous time to travel, and these are some of the most ideal spots in these gorgeous United States to see. From popular fall foliage spots to destinations you’ve never heard of, let’s dive into the list!

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

Average temp:  high 62, low 41

Stretching 469 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive), the Blue Ridge Parkway is widely regarded as one of America’s most scenic roads.

More than 15 million people using the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) each year, making it the most visited of all the national park units in the United States. So it’s also arguably the most popular!

The BRP’s origins date back to 1935, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the historic initiative part of his New Deal. It was designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression.

It took until 1966 to construct the majority of the road, and another 21 years to finish the picturesque stretch from the Linn Cove Viaduct to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. 

The result is an epic and iconic road trip that dazzles with spectacular colors in the fall, when the leaves turn to sun-speckled gems in red, orange, and golden hues. It’s by far one of the most scenic fall drives in the US!!

An autumn drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks (including NC’s Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi); and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and streams. 

There are also some 200 breathtaking BRP overlooks as well as charming mountain towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and  Little Switzerland . 

The best of the parkway’s landmarks include Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park. Each offers opportunities to savor the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine, preserved by FDR for future generations.

Recommended by Bret Love and Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

2. Bend, Oregon (one of the most underrated and best places to visit in October USA)

Average temp:  high 62, low 33

While Bend, Oregon is a fantastic destination year-round, the fall is a great time to visit this Central Oregon town. You’ll find far fewer crowds than in the summer months and the crisp autumn air is perfect for many outdoor adventures.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and October is a great time to experience Oregon’s high desert. Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect time of year to hit the nearby trails.

There are a variety of  hikes in Bend, Oregon  for all skill levels and in a diverse range of settings, from pine forests to snowcapped peaks to juniper and sage dotted deserts. You can also get out onto the water on a SUP or kayak or cruise through some of the famed Bend mountain biking trails.

A fun fall activity is to head to nearby Smith Rock State Park for beautiful views and a lovely riverside walk. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the ranch just outside the park that has a large pumpkin patch, food trucks and festive games for all ages.

October is the perfect time of year to hop around the different breweries around town to sample the local brews. If you’re a real craft beer enthusiast, you may want to participate in the Bend Ale Trail, which is run by the local tourism board. Collect stamps at each brewery you visit for a prize!

Recommended by Katie Diederichs of Go Wander Wild

3. Mammoth Lakes, California

Average temp:  high 60, low 30

One of the best places to visit in October in USA is  Mammoth Lakes . It’s located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall. The beautiful colorful trees with the mountains in the background make this a wonderful place to stay in October. 

June Lake Loop is one of the best spots to experience the fall colors. There are many lakes to explore on the loop like Silver Lake, June Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake.

The whole loop is filled with stunning yellow Aspen trees, and there are many spots to explore with these beautiful trees. Make sure to stop by Silver Lake Cafe for lunch and watch the stunning views of Silver Lake while you eat.

Another great spot to see fall colors is Convict Lake which is located southeast of Mammoth Lakes . The yellow Aspens are situated at the mountain base, so it is best to walk the whole loop.

You can also visit many of the lakes that are located in Mammoth Lakes Basin. They include lakes like Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George. It’s a magical area to explore in the early cool fall morning. 

There are so many yellow colors in Mammoth Lakes. It is probably one of the most underrated areas to experience fall foliage, and one of the best places to visit in the US in October!

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (one of the best October vacation destinations)

Average temp:  high 46, low 29

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most beautiful (and popular) national parks in the country.

Located about 2 hours away from Denver, this park takes time ans effort to explore with countless trails, waterfalls and even one of Colorado’s most popular “fourteeners” Longs Peak. 

Rocky Mountain National Park is pure magic during fall, when the incredible golden colors come out in full display. The best time to see them is from mid-September through early October. 

Another thing you should know about visiting RMNP during the fall is that weekends still might be busy, as more people come to take pictures and see thousands of amazing golden-hue Aspen trees. Crowds begin to dissipate in the fall, and if you want the ultimate experience, try to plan your visit for weekday. 

To see the fall colors in their full glory, take a drive along the Trail Ridge Road that is open from Memorial Day until late October. The alpine highway is a perfect way to enjoy the the fall scenery at RMNP without getting out of the car. In fact, the Trail Ridge Road is one of the top Colorado bucket list activity!

Still, try to explore some trails. Take a hike or two to enjoy the fall colors , and if you plan on doing a more challenging trail at a higher altitude, make sure to bring some layers . Temperatures begin to drop in the fall, and it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you, especially if you plan on camping here. 

Note: through most of October, the park requires a timed entry permit. Plan your trip in advance and grab your permit here .

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

5. Door County, Wisconsin

Average temp:  high 56, low 41

Door County, Wisconsin likely isn’t the first spot to come to mind when thinking of amazing fall colors in the United States. However, the colors here are breathtaking , and there are many wonderful activities to enjoy in Door County during fall! 

The colors begin changing during the end of September, and visitors hoping to see the leaves during their peak color should plan to visit the area in mid-October. 

To see some of the best fall colors in Door County, try hiking in Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park and The Ridges Sanctuary, just to name a few spots.

For those looking for a less active leaf-peeping experience, be sure to take a drive along Highway 42. You can also see the leaves from above at viewing platforms, such as the newly constructed Sturgeon Bay Maritime Museum Lighthouse Tower. 

Fall is also a great time to visit the apple orchards in Door County. Be sure to stop by Wood Orchard Market, where you can get awesome seasonal products such as their special apple cider donuts! 

With the cooler fall temperatures, cozying up to a fire during a traditional Door County fish boil is one of the best  things to do in Wisconsin  at this time of year. Fish Boils are fun to watch and delicious. Each boil master makes theirs a little differently but, you can count on all recipes using white fish and various vegetables and spices boiled in a large kettle over an open fire.

Door County is an underrated destination, and definitely one of the best places to visit in October USA!

Recommended by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

6. San Diego, California

Average temp:  high 74, low 61

Listen, San Diego has amazing temperatures most of the year, so there’s not really a ‘bad’ time to go. However, as someone who’s traveled to San Diego many times in the fall, I can truly say that October is a fantastic time to visit this amazing city!

Less tourists visit San Diego in the fall, so there’s not as many limitations to amazing activities because of overcrowding. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is a fantastic spot to explore. It’s really enjoyable in the fall when you can see what you’re there to see, instead of waiting all the time.

An amazing activity in the San Diego area is kayaking in La Jolla Cove in October. Other top things to do include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island.

By the way, here’s an idea of how to spend a weekend in San Diego if it’s on your short list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

7. Oahu, Hawaii (top of the list for warm places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 84, low 69

The island of Oahu has beautiful weather throughout the year but fall is one of the best times to visit. At this time of year, you can expect fewer crowds around the island, plenty of days with clear blue skies and the island is still really warm so you can spend your time lying on the beach.

While it may be hotter in the summer months, the fall actually offers a more enjoyable temperature so you can get out and explore the island. 

One of the highlights of any visit to Oahu is exploring the many beaches dotted around the island. The most beautiful beach on Oahu is Lanikai Beach , which is a palm tree lined stretch of brilliant white sand and crystal-clear blue water.

As it’s on the east side of the island the water is usually quite calm so it is ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are feeling energetic you can kayak out to the Mokalua Islands which are just a few hundred metres from shore. 

Another great activity is to explore Kualoa Regional Park, which is where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. You can explore the park on foot or take a quad bike tour. The mountains here are unique with their deep ridges and tropical green coverings.

During a visit to Oahu you can also snorkel, surf, hike, visit local farms to try fresh fruit and so much more. It’s an amazing island and the weather in particular makes this a perfect fall getaway.

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

8. Acadia National Park, Maine (a top choice on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 55, low 38

Acadia is among a very small group of US national parks with two genuine ‘peak’ seasons. Summer is naturally congested in Acadia, but fall is equally as busy and because of the spectacularly beautiful Autumnal foliage lighting up the park.

But striking colors aren’t everything and the fall season is loaded with other benefits in Acadia National Park. 

Hiking conditions are cooler in September and October, which comes in particularly handy when climbing both of Acadia’s adrenaline pumping hikes – Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail.

Beehive and Precipice are the two outstanding hikes but there are a dozen other trails without ladder climbing elements. All of which summit with remarkable views over the Gulf of Maine, gorgeous lakes, tiny islands and of course mountain sides covered in vibrant orange, yellow, red and green trees.

Epic sunrises are one of Acadia’s greatest assets and from the summit of ultra-popular Cadillac Mountain, you can be among the first people in the US to see the sun rise over the eastern horizon. In fall, sunrise is over an hour later than in summer, which means a slightly less agonizing alarm time.

To see the richest and most vivid colors, simply get stuck into all of the  best things to do in Acadia National Park , including hikes, lakes and carriage roads.

Pro tip: Be sure to book Bar Harbor accommodation a long way in advance to avoid missing out and always be out in the park early, parking spaces are limited and fill quickly each day.

Without a doubt, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in October in USA.

Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?

9. Moab, Utah

Average temp:  high 74, low 41

Moab, Utah is an adventure city in the Southwest USA. With countless national parks, state parks and recreation areas surrounding Moab, it’s truly an amazing place to vacation.

It makes this list of the best places to visit in October in the USA because the weather usually hasn’t turned too wintry yet to enjoy the outdoors. And in the summer, Moab is packed with tourism!

If you love hiking, October is the perfect time to explore Arches National Park by foot or hike Canyonlands National Park . There’s also white water rafting, canyoneering, wineries and breweries and so much more.

Visitors should still book accommodations as far out as possible to get the best pricing. And be sure to book any tours in advance since Moab is a hot spot!

Related: 30 Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Best October vacation destinations

Some amazing spots have already been covered, but some of the best fall foliage in USA continues…

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp:  high 68, low 46

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the best places in the US to experience fall.  The mountains are blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves, the weather is perfect and the orchards are open. 

While it may be the busiest time of year, it’s well worth the visit, but try to time it for a weekday visit instead of the weekends.

Be sure to spend some time walking around downtown Asheville and wandering the shops of the hip West Asheville area.  Visiting the Biltmore Estate is also a must-do. 

There are so many amazing places to eat in Asheville, you’ll be able to try new, delicious food for every meal. Tupelo Honey and Gan Shan West are great options.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is driving part of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and the best time to  drive the Blue Ridge Parkway is fall . There are tons of hikes to waterfalls nearby like Linville Falls, Looking Glass Falls, or Moore Cove Falls. 

Visiting Asheville in the fall makes all of these things even better than they normally are because you get to see them surrounded by stunning fall foliage, and who doesn’t love that?  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

11. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (a PNW fave on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 47, low 33

Within the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier National Park boasts vibrant autumnal colors not only on the leaves of its famously grand trees, but also from the wildflowers, succulents, and other fauna carpeting the park’s rolling valleys.

If you’re looking for some of the best spots to see the fall colors, head to the Skyline Trail Mount Rainier, a 5.5 mile hike that takes you up close-and-personal with Mount Rainier and meanders through meadows aflame with autumnal foliage, from the vibrant red of scarlet paintbrush to the flaming orange of elderberries. 

Alternatively, check out Naches Peak Loop, a part of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses colorful subalpine valleys bursting with autumnal colors while snowy Mount Rainier looms overhead.

For a lower impact way to enjoy the fall foliage, take a scenic drive through the Chinook Scenic Byway. It’s a 107 mile road that will take you through both Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest.

This drive provides a gorgeous tour of rushing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and of course, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains’ beautiful fall colors.

With stunning autumnal foliage, world-class hiking, and a variety of activities for all types of travelers, Mount Rainier in the fall is a fantastic place to explore. 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Boston, Massachusetts

Average temp:  high 62, low 47

Fall is the ultimate time to visit New England. From “leaf-peeping” in parks to crisp weather and apple-picking, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the region from all over the world. If you’re seeking a combination of a city break and a fantastic fall destination, consider Boston.

Boston is teeming with history, green spaces, restaurants, and quaint neighborhoods to charm any visitor. Known as the “Cradle of the American Revolution,” don’t miss the Freedom Trail .

It’s a 2-mile, largely flat walking path that traces various sites of historical importance, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the beginning of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, and the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown.

The Trail kicks off at the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest city park in the U.S., dating back to 1634! As you walk, you will also discover other lovely fall destinations, such as the Beacon Hill neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Be sure to stop at Acorn Street, said to be the most-photographed street in the U.S .

For some Victorian splendor, visit Copley Square and the Back Bay, gazing up at its two beautiful churches and the Boston Public Library – certainly one of the city’s most picturesque places. In particular, the Library’s Bates Room, with its glowing lamps and vintage books, will give you major “back-to-school season” vibes.

Nearby, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall has gorgeous trees in blazing fall colors – one of the best places to check out fall foliage in town . There are also a variety of parks to discover if foliage is what you seek, including the Fens, the Emerald Necklace parks system and the Public Garden. 

Boston is certainly one of the best places to travel in October in USA, especially if you love history!

Recommended by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

13. Napa Valley, California (a favorite of these fall vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 77, low 47

It’s without question that the beautiful  Napa Valley  region in California is one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the USA. The normally vibrant green of the grapevines turns to shades of yellow, gold and orange in Napa Valley. And as the weather cools, the leaves start to fall, leaving a carpet of orangey gold underfoot.  

Napa Valley is actually a region featuring a collection of towns in between the vineyards and rolling hills. The area is a really easy drive from the best things to do in San Francisco , and will take around 1.5 hours. Having a car is a great idea in Napa Valley so that you are able to hop between wine tastings and towns at your leisure.  

For a spectacular view, Artesa Wines is a great choice for a wine tasting as the large-windowed cellar door sits stop a hill providing great panoramic views of the surrounding valley.  

Auburn James, just outside St Helena, is also a beautiful winery to stop in at, with a gorgeous tasting room. It is worth noting that booking in advance for your tastings is always a good idea and usually involves a small payment.  

Once you’ve finished your wine tastings, head into the township of St Helena for dinner at the Farmstead – a stellar farm to plate restaurant pairing local wines with delicious food.  

Recommended by Emma of Emma Jane Explores

14. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp:  high 62, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in October USA, look no further than Chicago!  This fun city is vibrant and full of fall foliage! Plus, there’s a ton of things to do, indoor and out.

While you could spend a week in the city, a Chicago 3 day itinerary would be just about perfect. 

A must-see is Millennium Park and the world-famous “Bean.” October is the  perfect time to witness the ever changing colors of autumn against the Chicago skyline.  The Bean is sort of like the cherry on top of that whole experience!

If you’re into museums, Chicago has so many options to choose from. The Art Institute of Chicago is located downtown within walking distance of many other main attractions. Enjoy works by Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and so many others!

You can  visit the Willis Tower Skydeck , where you can walk out on a ledge over 100 stories up (indoor, don’t worry!) and see the city below.  Another perfect activity is the Navy Pier,  where you can walk, dine and even join in on fun activities like a mirror maze or giant Ferris wheel!

With typically mild weather conditions in Chicago, it’s one of the best US cities to visit in October! Daytime averages in the 60s and nightly about 50 degrees, layers will be your friend!

Pro tip : stay near downtown or within a short metro ride to the city center. It’s a relatively walkable city so be prepared with your cute walking shoes !

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

15. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in the US in October)

Average temp:  high 76, low 60

It sounds cliché, but Hawaii is such a gorgeous destination that it’s always worth the visit! However, as someone who has been to this beautiful island chain many times, visiting in the fall is one of my very favorite times to go.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA because it’s the shoulder season so it’s more affordable. Hiking trails and parking lots are generally less full, making it a great time to vacation on this island.

Highlights in Kauai in October

• See the Waimea Canyon and NaPali Coast. It’s absolutely stunning! 
• Helicopter tour of the island . Since 80% of it isn’t drivable, this is the best way to see this gorgeous place.
• Hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail . You’ll have to get advanced reservations to enter the park, but it’s a breathtaking experience!
• Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in southern Kauai near Poipu. This is and easy walk and offers ocean views nearly the entire way.
• Snorkel on Anini Beach. It’s one of the most calm spots on the island and a great spot to see sea turtles! (Just be sure to respect Hawaiian culture, keeping your distance from sea turtles and not walk on the coral.)

For the best places to eat in Kauai, it’s easier to get reservations for restaurants (which is recommended for Kauai since it’s a smaller island) in October.

Hands down, Hawaii is one of the very best states to visit in October, and Kauai is phenomenal!

16. Lutsen, Minnesota (an underrated and absolute best fall vacations in the US)

Average temp:  high 52, low 34

A fabulous, unknown place to many for enjoying fall leaf color and waterfalls can be found on the North Shore along Lake Superior in Minnesota. The North Shore is a special place and is only 2 hours north of Minneapolis-St Paul airport.

Duluth is where the journey begins, but for the full experience continue northward two more hours to Lutsen, Minnesota.  It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in USA!

Let’s go! Start the adventure in Canal Park in Duluth, MN with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in the backdrop, while you explore the lighthouse pier and the newly renovated Lakewalk. Your drive will continue with must-see stops at Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse and Temperance River State Park.

Great accommodations can be found in Lutsen or Grand Marais, which are centralized for hiking and lots of activities in the area. An aerial gondola ride over the Poplar River and up the Moose Mountain is an experience not to miss to see the best fall leaf colors !

The window for peak fall color on the north shore varies anywhere from mid-September to early-October. However, the fall colors continue to be stunning in different types of forests at times beyond that window.

If you haven’t yet experienced the North Shore of Minnesota in the fall it’s one to add to your list! There are so many things to do and places to stay, it’s easy to find hotels on the North Shore MN as well.

Recommended by Michelle of Almost There Adventures

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Average temp:  high 58, low 46

Welcome to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the town National Geographic Travel has crowned “America’s Greatest Small Town.”

Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. Its location makes it the perfect New England destination for leaf peeping .

Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. The most famous historical portion of the city is located in the south end. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.

When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square.

Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States and is also home to dozens of charming boutiques. These boutiques come to life during the autumn with their seasonal decor and gift offerings.

Be sure to swing by Cup of Joe cafe for a cozy cup of salted caramel hot chocolate or their signature pumpkin spice latte. Lastly, the best thing about Portsmouth, NH is it’s a very walkable town, meaning no car is needed to explore this charming downtown this upcoming autumn season !

Recommended by Nicole of The Abroad Blog

18. Eastern Sierra, California

Average temp:  high 62, low 38 (varies)

The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous fall getaway destination in the USA. Fall color here is considered second only to New England , so you know you are in for a visual treat if you visit when the colors are at their peak!

From Lake Tahoe in the north to Bishop and Lone Pine in the south, the region is ablaze with foliage colors in the fall. You’ll be mesmerized by the show of yellow, oranges, and reds put on by aspens, willows and cottonwoods. 

Taking a  Highway 395 road trip  is a great way to enjoy fall in the Eastern Sierra. If you prefer to have a base, Mammoth Lakes and Bishop are the largest towns in the area, and make for good bases from which to explore the beauty of the fall foliage all around you.

Doing scenic drives to enjoy the colors is the top thing to do in the fall. There are numerous paved and dirt roads you can drive. Both Inyo and Mono Counties offer the most beautiful drives. If you plan to drive the dirt roads, bring an appropriate vehicle.

The region is also known for its numerous spectacular lakes, so get out onto the water to enjoy the colors on the banks. Boating or kayaking is offered at many lakes. You can also go hiking, to view the colors up close: there are many legendary Eastern Sierra hikes from which to choose.

The Eastern Sierras are certainly one of the beset October vacations USA for lakes, mountains and hiking.

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

19. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (another underrated destination on this list of beset places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 58, low 39

You’ll hit gold if you visit Shenandoah National Park during the autumn . . . plus orange, red and burgundy.

Shenandoah’s trees shed their green attire. Autumn’s palette paints the forest rusty orange, reddish yellow, and burgundy. Woodland creatures abound, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and bats.

Located less than two hours from Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts hikers and drivers. It’s also a favorite for singles and families to spend a weekend. But book your reservations early for either the park campgrounds or the Skyland Resorts and Big Meadows hotels, as they routinely sell out for the weekend.

The best time to visit is Monday through Thursday as the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam in October at peak foliage times. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia. Speed limit is 35 mph.

Your best bet is to enter the enter at the Front Royal Entrance, stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to get a panoramic family portrait and then head down the road. Stop at a convenient parking lot so you can hike through forests, scale rocky ledges, explore Appalachian Trail stops and watch waterfalls.

Or you can spend 3 hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. It ends at Rockfish Gap Entrance Station, which is also the northern entrance to the  Blue Ridge Parkway .  Shenandoah National Park features 200,000 acres of protected land. Stony Man and Hawksbill peaks exceed 4,000 feet.

This beautiful fall destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, solos or even a friends’ trip!

Recommended by By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Fall vacation ideas

From big cities to wide open spaces, there’s still plenty more places to see on this mega list of the best place to visit in October in the US!

20. Austin, Texas

Average temp:  high 82, low 60

What a perfect city for a fall getaway! As someone who’s visited Austin a few times, I can honestly say October was my favorite! The weather is way better (i.e. way less hot) than during peak travel season.

Visiting Austin in the fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures. There’s so much hiking in Austin, plus fall festivals, outdoor drive-in movies, pumpkin patches and more.

If you love being on the water, Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. For easy hiking in Austin , consider McKinney Falls State Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt or the popular Mount Bonnell.

Of course there’s live music all over Austin, and let’s not forget the mural hunting, either. Whether you’re going for Insta-worthy shots or just happen to walk by them on your way to get epic cone at Amy’s Ice Cream, you’re bound to find some fun artwork in the downtown area.

October is the perfect time of year to spend a weekend in Austin .

21. Newport, Rhode Island

Average temp:  high 62, low 53

One of the best fall vacations in the US is definitely Newport, Rhode Island. The area has peak fall foliage throughout October.

It’s a small town located on Aquidneck Island and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and sea cliffs. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

The majority of people drive to Newport from somewhere on the east coast. If you’re visiting from further away, you can fly into Providence, Rhode Island, only 45 minutes away. 

One of the best  things to do in Newport  is see the history of the area on the Cliff Walk. You can walk 3.5 miles past the Breakers, one of the Newport mansions, around sea cliffs, and past a few beaches.

Newport’s mansions are renowned for their architecture and history. Some of the mansions were constructed in the early 19th century. Walk around the Wharves (Bannister’s and Bowen’s) in the evening for a variety of food and shopping. 

Newport has lots of delicious places to eat. For breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – a great way to start the day is with their blueberry stuffed French toast!

Your New England vacation wouldn’t be complete without some seafood. At the Lobster Shack, you can find fresh seafood. You can stay at the Marriott Newport if you want to stay in the heart of Newport. The hotel is within walking distance of the wharves. 

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

22. Aspen, Colorado (a top choice for best places to visit in October in the US)

Average temp:  high 58, low 31

Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall foliage settings is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The town of Aspen is perfect for a fall getaway because it’s surrounded by mountains and gorgeous aspen trees. I’m convinced it’s the among the best places to visit in October in USA.

Unlike some other destinations on this list which get vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, aspen trees turn a gorgeous yellow color. And when you get a mountainside full of them, it’s like eye candy!

A gorgeous day trip from Aspen is Maroon Bells Park. The feature is the mountain peak of Maroon Bells, which are surrounded by a lake and gorgeous aspen trees in the fall.

You could spend the day hiking the trails near the Maroon Bells if you love hiking and exploring the outdoors on foot. Note: you’ll want to plan ahead for this one, as reservations are now required to visit. Get your Maroon Bells reservations here .

Other things to do in Aspen include the Silver Queen Gondola, drive Independence Pass, visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and of course, shopping and dining in Aspen.

So whether you’re making the fall foliage in Aspen the focus of your trip or you’re combining it with an epic Colorado road trip , Aspen will surely be a highlight for a fall vacation!

23. New York City, New York

Average temp:  high 64, low 50

New York City is amongst the best places to spend fall in the United States. The city is known for its beautiful fall colors and even a bit of Indian summer if you’re lucky.

New York can get very hot during the summer so the fall is the perfect time to enjoy the city without the heat. Fall is a lot more comfortable for sightseeing and you’ll love the views of the city. 

If you’re traveling with older kids, this New York weekend itinerary with teens is the perfect mix of activities.

Head to the Highline Park which is a former elevated railroad track that has been converted into a walkway. It’s the perfect way to see the city without having to deal with the traffic and busy streets! 

For an even better view of the city, you need to go all the way to the top of the One World Trade Center . This modern skyscraper is a must-see and truly the best place to take pictures of the city.

Afterward, head to the river for an evening cruise. There are tourist boats that will take you around the Hudson and East River.

However, for a more affordable option just take the ferry to Jersey or Staten Island. The ride won’t be as long but tickets only cost a few dollars and you’ll get to avoid the tourist crowds.

A trip to New York City is one of the best October vacations USA and one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

24. Zion National Park, Utah (another favorite on this list of best places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 39

Zion National Park is simply stunning any time of year. However, it’s especially amazing to visit this national park in the fall.  With dwindled crowds and less intense weather to worry about, Zion is a great idea for a fall vacatio n!

If you want to hike the infamous Angels Landing, advanced planning is required, as the permit application process is during the summer. But, if you happen to get a permit for the hike, October is a phenomenal time to do it!

Of course, there are many things to do in Zion without hiking this challenging trail.  The much easier and yet equally rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail is a fun one, and can be completed for most fitness levels . At just a mile, this trail offers absolutely incredible views of the park!

A place for all ages, this park is magnificent for those young and old. An itinerary for Zion with kids includes other simple hikes like the Riverside Walk. Go further into the canyon by hiking The Narrows!

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in October, the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive is incredible.  You won’t get the traditional vivid colors like some of the other destinations on this list of the best places to visit in October in US, but instead you’ll get amazing desert landscape and massive canyon views. So fun!

Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers for varying weather, hiking snacks and hiking gear like grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack .

Zion is absolutely one of the best places to go in October in USA, and a spot you’ll love!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 83, low 46

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to visit all year round but fall is a great time to visit. Temperatures begin to cool after the summer and so do the crowds. Plus, visiting mid-week will get you cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Because temperatures are cooler, it means you can take advantage of some of the best outdoor attractions in the city, perfect for those visiting  Las Vegas for the first time .

Enjoy a Gondola ride at The Venetian, watch the Bellagio fountains or watch the volcano erupt outside The Mirage.

Rent a car or join a tour to visit the nearby national parks; Grand Canyon is the most popular day trip option from Las Vegas but October is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Alternatively, head to the unusual Magic Mountains or explore ‘The Neon Museum’ , a gallery of old signage from Vegas hotels of the past. 

In the Bellagio hotel, you’ll find the gorgeous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas and a great indoor activity to enjoy.

Each season, the gardens get transformed and the fall display is the most breathtaking. Expect oversized pumpkins, woodland creatures and tall, entertaining trees. 

For more natural fall colours, head to one of the nearby parks ; Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Paseo Verde Park and Gilcrease Orchard are top choices for this time of the year. 

We recommend staying at The Cosmopolitan; it’s an elegant, stunning hotel and rates are normally super high but drop during the Autumn time.

Recommended by Katie of Creative Travel Guide

26. Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)

Average temp:  high 69, low 46

Washingtonians and visitors don’t even have to hop in a car to enjoy peak fall foliage in a forest. Rock Creek Park is situated in the nation’s capital.

It’s the nation’s third oldest national park. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890.

Come October, the oaks, American beech and tulip trees suddenly change into the colors of the sunset—golden, orange and red. The 1,754-acre park features hikes for the hardcore as well as weekend adventurer.

If time permits, hike the two primary trails – Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail. They run side by side. Imagine walking along a ladder laid on the ground.

Half-day hikes include Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford, Rapids Bridge and Chestnut Oak/Mountain Laurels.

Or, devote a fall weekend to exploring Rock Creek Park . Tramp around the Civil War fortifications, watch interpreters at the Peirce Mill and Barn and visit the horses.

Bring a carrot or pull on your boots to ride a horse at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, which is the only public riding facility in Washington DC.

Families will definitely want to visit the Nature Center and Planetarium. There are picnic areas scattered across Rock Creek Park, so fill a basket with ciders, sandwiches and apples.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

27. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite warm place to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

A Florida beach may not come to the top of mind when thinking about the best October vacation destinations. However, it’s the perfect time to go! And what better way to end this list than one of the top-ranked beaches in the USA!

Siesta Key, Florida is home to turquoise water and some of the finest white powder sand you’ll ever step foot on. While you won’t see much fall foliage here, you’ll see wide open beaches and affordable prices, compared to the peak summer season and those looking for a winter escape.

Fall is the ideal time to visit Siesta Key. The weather is very comfortable and the water is still warm enough to enjoy.

From excellent restaurants, shopping, kayaking and beaching, there’s seriously so many things to do in Siesta Key. Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway as a couple, family, solo or friends trip, you’ll love spending time in Siesta Key!

While a bit unconventional in terms of fall colors, this is still one of the best places to visit in October in the USA.

28. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 81, low 62

New Orleans is one of the top warm places to visit in October in USA. It’s a fantastic walking city so it’s an ideal location to visit in the fall when the summer weather has cooled a bit and the crowds have left.

New Orleans is a very family friendly city , even in the French Quarter, or a great destination for a romantic getaway or a fun girls’ or boy’s weekend. 

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. Here you can aimlessly walk along cobblestone streets, poking your head into cute shops, or eating your way through delicious food.

One of the must-try treats is a beignet, a cross between a french pastry and a doughnut. They are easily found in the French Quarter. 

If you’re curious about the history of this area, take one of the many walking tours that will ultimately take you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Here you will learn all about the ghosts, the after-life and even voodoo, themes found all over New Orleans.

A fantastic experience is visiting the National WWII Museum, a short walk from the French Quarter.

This is an exceptional interactive museum that focuses on the United States’ role in Asia and Europe during WWII. It’s a thrilling experience that will grab the attention of anyone even those that aren’t normally interested in history or wars. 

There are countless exciting activities to do within a short drive of New Orleans. You can visit a plantation, like Oak Alley Plantation, and learn about slavery and a difficult part of US history. The drive there is beautiful and exploring the grounds is a lovely thing to do in the fall.

In addition, you can take a swamp tour which is a lot of fun. You hop on a bayou boat and explore some of the many surrounding swamps filled with crocodiles and other wild creatures.

October is the perfect time of year to visit New Orleans due to the cooling weather and reasonable crowds.

Recommended by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Best places to visit in October in the USA

Whew! What a list. I hope you’ve found enough inspiration for your fall getaway – or 2! With so many amazing spots in the USA to choose from, I’m sure you can’t go wrong!

Let’s recap those destinations again, in a much more condensed list…

Best fall vacations in US

• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC to VA
• Bend, Oregon
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Door County, Wisconsin
• San Diego, California
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Napa Valley, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• Kauai, Hawaii
• Lutsen, Minnesota
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Eastern Sierra, California
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Austin, Texas
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Aspen, Colorado
• New York City, New York
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)
• Siesta Key, Florida
• New Orleans, Louisiana

So, have you decided? Comment below with your fall vacation plans!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your fall getaway, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Related content: 28 Underrated Destinations in the USA 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love) 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacation Spots in the USA 35 Swoon-worthy Beach Vacations 26 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast 100 Romantic Vacations in the United States

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Sunday 27th of August 2023

I have actually visited quite a few of these in the autumn (I am from the UK!) I am pleased to say. There are still a few more to tick off though. Fall is my favourite season for visiting the US. I would especially love to see Aspen in the fall. I have only ever seen it in the winter. You have whetted my appetite for another fall road trip!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Oh yay Jane! I'm so glad to hear you've visited so many spots in the US during the fall season. Such a spectacular time to travel! Hope you get to cross a few more off your list soon :)

I've been to Kauai in October and you are correct, it's a great time to go! Warm, sunny and not too crowded either.

haha yes! Although there may not be a bad time to go to Kauai....🤣

Saturday 26th of August 2023

Love this entire listicle! All these places must be stunning during autumn and I'd love to visit some day. Thanks for sharing this!

You're so welcome Kelly. Glad you enjoyed the list!

This list is amazing. I completely agree with Bend, OR as one of the best underrated places to visit! I really want to get out to the northeast at some point to see the fall colors, they look incredible. Thanks for the inspiration.

Oh yay Sophie, so glad you found some inspiration here. The PNW is so stunning in the fall and worth the trip 🧡

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Such an exhaustive list Nikki! I am really glad that I stumbled upon your blog today. Hope to tick some of this list in the next few years though. Kudos on this article and stay safe! :)

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks so much Darryl! It was fun putting an extensive list together. I hope you get to see many of the places on this list!

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The 10 Best Destinations for a Honeymoon in October

From the shores of Hawaii to the Italian countryside, romance abounds in these beautiful locations.

Andrea Comi / Getty Images

If you’re in search of the perfect destination for your October honeymoon , you’re in luck! There are so many options to choose from during this beautiful, autumnal month, whether you want to relax on a white-sand beach , immerse yourself in the wild, or explore a romantic city .

For October destination ideas and travel tips, we turned to travel expert John Spence and his team of destination specialists at Scott Dunn . His first piece of advice? Don’t wait until the last minute to book your fall honeymoon . "I would start planning as soon as possible," Spence advises. "By planning now you’ll get your first choice of accommodations, whereas you’ll likely have far fewer options later as places fill up."

Meet the Expert

John Spence is the president of Scott Dunn , a luxury travel agency.

Keep reading for our list of the 10 best honeymoon destinations in October.

The Maldives

Courtesy of Anantara Kihavah Maldives

If the Maldives isn’t at the top of your honeymoon wish list, it’s about to be. October is a great time to see whale sharks and manta rays, which makes for an unforgettable excursion. Couples should stay at Anantara Kihavah Maldives for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience. The resort offers a special honeymoon package that includes daily breakfast and dinner, champagne, unique dining experiences, and a romantic " Slumber Guru Ritual ."

Tanzania and Kenya

Photo by Heather Waraksa

One of the most sought-after African honeymoon combinations is Tanzania and Kenya, and there’s no better time to visit and view wildlife than in the dry season. "I would recommend Tanzania and Kenya for a classic big game honeymoon safari ," says Spence. "The Great Migration is still taking place in East Africa in October, so it’s a great time for viewing, and the lodges there are some of the most romantic."

South Africa

Christopher Loh / Getty Images

For a South African honeymoon with an ideal mixture of adventure and luxury, start at Table Mountain to take in the panoramic views of the Western Cape, then head down to the waterfront to treat yourselves to artisan crafts and clothing made by South African creatives. To top off the trip, couples can drive to the Winelands or go explore a multitude of national parks and wildlife preserves, where the odds of seeing all of the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalo) are very high.

Courtesy of Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

A perfect destination for couples who want a Caribbean experience without actually leaving the country is St. Thomas. Since it’s part of the U.S. Virgin Islands , no passport is required! Stay at the luxury Ritz Carlton St. Thomas , where couples can book a sunset sail on the resort's very own catamaran, the Lady Lindsey. Pro tip: Make sure to book a Club Level room for exclusive access to a private beach area and the Club Lounge with unlimited meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the day.

Photo by Giuseppe Marano and Monica Leggio

Rooftop dinners surrounded by candles, couples massages in marble-clad spas, and nights in a glamping tent under starry skies make for the most picturesque honeymoon memories in Morcco . Be sure to book your itinerary here well in advance, as the best rooms and riads sell out very quickly during peak travel seasons. For a luxury stay, consider a riad at Royal Mansour in Marrakech.

Courtesy of Mauna Kea Resort

While most U.S. cities turn chilly in October, Hawaii’s desirable warm weather remains. The group of islands is a classic honeymoon destination, filled with off-roading adventures, luxury hotels, and gourmet food. Couples can explore one of the state's most romantic treasures, Mauna Kea Resort , sip Mai Tais by the pool, indulge in a couples’ spa treatment, book a moonlight snorkel with manta rays, or learn about Hawaiian culture with programs like ukulele lessons or Hula classes.

Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography

Arguably the most romantic country in Europe , Italy makes a magical honeymoon spot. "Italy is a steadfast favorite of ours and our guests for romantic getaways, and October is a great time to go after the summer rush has died down," Spence tells Brides . For couples who want to take in history, art, and sightseeing, head to Rome, Venice, or Florence.

Courtesy of Mivana

October is one of the most underrated times to visit Madagascar, as the weather is mild and tourists are at a minimum. For honeymooners wanting to bask in total seclusion, Miavana by Time + Tide is an ultra-exclusive private island off Madagascar’s northeast coast. The property offers couples access to 2,500 acres of wilderness, plus five uninhabited islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Guests can heli-surf to previously uncharted waves, dive with humpback whales, and take part in bespoke activities such as round-island races.

Courtesy of Hotel Esencia

In October, the weather is typically cooler in Mexico and there are fewer crowds. Couples can check into Hotel Esencia , an exclusive 50-acre private estate between Tulum and Playa del Carmen that prides itself on excellent service, gorgeous interiors, and the utmost privacy for those looking for a romantic honeymoon escape. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, stay in Tulum, which has increasingly become the ultimate wellness destination.

Courtesy of Jumby Bay Island

October is one of the best months to visit Antigua as it’s the island’s off-season: Rates are cheaper and the weather rarely goes below 80 degrees. Stay at Jumby Bay Island , a secluded yet accessible private isle of white-sand beaches and bicycle paths, just a five-minute drive and a seven-minute boat ride from Antigua Airport. Surrounded by tropical foliage, the resort spans 300 secluded acres and is home to 4.5 miles of shoreline, presiding over some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and fiercely protected beaches.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

14 Best Romantic Fall Getaways in the US | Romance Awaits!

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Seasonal Travel
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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Fall is often a favorite time of the year. The heat of summer fades to comfortable and cozy, perfect for cuddling in one of the romantic getaways. Depending on where you are, there are spectacular fall colors as Mother Nature sprays orange, red, and yellow on the leaves before they fall. A cup of tea, coffee, or whisky to warm you; leaf peeping, long walks, and a glass of wine by a fireplace. All of this and more makes romantic fall getaways magical and brings out romance at its best.

Then too, it doesn’t hurt that fall in many locales is shoulder season, meaning your money will go further with discounts and lower rates than peak travel periods. What more do you need to inspire you to pack a bag to a lake cottage, a beach house, or the Park City mountain resort?

If you need further convincing, here are a few fab spots for fall in the U.S. 

Best Romantic Fall Getaways In The US

1. new orleans, best for music lovers.

This is one of my favorite romantic fall getaways. New Orleans in the fall is fantastic. The stifling summer heat is no more. When a spontaneous party breaks out on a street because the musicians doing their thing make it impossible for you to stand still, you don’t have to worry about the humidity — let go and just dance.

New Orleans is wildly romantic. The beauty of the Greek Revival, Edwardian, Creole, Queen Anne, Italianate, Spanish, French, and numerous other architectural styles stimulate the senses.

Creole cuisine and some of the best food on the planet further feed the good vibes. That New Orleans jazz gets all in your soul and puts you in the mood for love, especially when combined with classic cocktails like Sazerac, Ramos gin fizz, or a hurricane. A stop in Café du Monde for a beignet is a must, as is a romantic stroll through the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA. It’s on 11 acres in City Park adjacent to the museum. The garden is full of pines, magnolias, and live oaks surrounding two lagoons. It’s home to more than 90 sculptures and a world-class collection of over 60 modern and contemporary sculptures.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near New Orleans

2. Jekyll Island, Georgia

Big fun for beach babes.

Talk about getting away from it all. This is a remote spot, a barrier island off Georgia’s southeastern coast. It’s a twofer — history and romance. The swooning starts with the live oak trees draped with Spanish moss.

You’ll love that there are no traffic signals on the island. The best way to get around is on more than 20 miles of bike paths.

Take your pick of five beaches. By far, the most dramatic is Driftwood Beach I thought I was in a movie. The water is a gorgeous blue surrounded by live oaks, but it is the tons of ancient driftwood that is eerily beautiful and will remain in your head long after you’ve gone home. It’s so special that lovers wed there.

You’ll feel like royalty at the luxurious Jekyll Island Club Resort and be among the mansions that date back to the 1800s when the island was the summer place of choice for the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and other wealthy families. Relax in the spa, and when you’re ready for action, kayak the salt marshes.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Jekyll Island, Georgia

3. Savannah, Georgia

A mood setter.

How does a moonlit stroll in Forsythe Park or an evening carriage ride through the cobblestone alleyways sound? For sure, it’s the stuff of romance novels.

True romantics know that fine dining is a must. Complete with graceful décor, Cha Bella is a farm-to-table restaurant with the freshest ingredients. For contemporary Southern fare, diners will adore a romantic dinner. Keep the romantic vibe going with rooftop cocktails at the Perry Lane Hotel’s Peregrin, a swanky rooftop bar overlooking Savannah’s Historic District where you can catch sunset views.

On slow days (or before busy ones), pamper yourselves at downtown spas like Heavenly Spa by Westin , Spa Bleu, or Magnolia Spa.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Savannah, Georgia

4. Yosemite National Park, California

Nature meets romance.

You think of epic outdoor adventures when it comes to Yosemite . But with the vistas and secluded forests, it’s also romantic. Fall is perfect for a backcountry day hike. Many couples choose Cathedral Peak as the perfect spot to pop the question. Then there are waterfalls, which if you’re lucky, might still be vibrant in the fall.

There are several romantic dining options nearby, like these two that you’ll find in Mariposa: Fredrick’s of Savourys and CostaLivos La Cuchina Italia . 

Pro tip: Just 16 miles from Yosemite is the AAA Five-Diamond Château du Sureau , a country house resort on nine acres tucked away among the green foothills of the Sierra Nevadas. You might think you’re in the Provencal region of France, instead of Oakhurst. The setting is ideal for couples looking for an intimate, fairytale fall getaway in California . 

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Yosemite National Park, California

5. St. Regis Aspen Resort, Aspen, Colorado

Love and leaf peeping.

Fall is a beautiful season to visit Colorado , and Aspen is inspiring — and a great spot for a couple looking for quieter romantic fall getaways.

One of the most spectacular times of the year in Aspen, fall days are filled with sunshine and nights with crisp cool air. Valleys full of aspen trees turn yellow against a crystal-clear blue sky, prime for leaf peeping. Treat yourself and stay at the St. Regis Aspen Resort , a five-star luxury destination at the base of Aspen Mountain. When staying at the hotel, couples can reserve a complimentary BMW x7 series and explore Aspen’s Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

Or through the concierge, arrange for a romantic hot air balloon and be wowed by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, or a horseback ride through Aspen groves and the Snowmass Wilderness area.

Feel like you want to chill? Book a specialty treatment at the Remède Spa, recognized as one of the world’s preeminent hotel spas. Reward yourself with curated treatments, including therapies like the CBD Healing Customized Massage.

Couples can treat themselves to a romantic dinner at the flagship Velvet Buck restaurant and soon enjoy The Snow Lodge with its Michelin-starred fine dining.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near St. Regis Aspen Resort, Aspen, Colorado

6. Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Snuggles around the fireplace.

The north coast of Oregon is downright dreamy. Eighty miles from Portland you’ll find Stephanie Inn , a four-star boutique luxury hotel in Cannon Beach.

It’s hard to say what will impress you most at Stephanie Inn, the expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, the Haystack Rock , or the Tillamook Lighthouse atop Tillamook Rock. Kick back and relish your time at this beachfront retreat, with its oceanview jacuzzi tubs and gas fireplaces in every guestroom. The hotel boasts a full range of luxury spa services and specialty coastal experiences. Enhance a stay with romantic add-on packages including local wines, long-stem roses, and a luxurious bubble bath.

Oh, and eat up. Chef Aaron Bedard’s menu is inspired by local ingredients at the peak of their season, creating a culinary exploration featuring the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon

7. Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie, Washington

The wonders of waterfalls.

You know it’s about location, location, location. You can’t go wrong with Salish Lodge & Spa . Perched on top of a waterfall in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, it is especially cozy and picturesque with its fall foliage. You feel the loving spirit in your room with a fireplace and huge soaking tub or spa-like shower — sweeping views included.

For additional romance, you don’t have to hurry to go beyond the lodge. Salish is home to an award-winning spa. Go for the popular fireside couple’s suite with a personalized Tranquility Massage.

The Dining Room is the spot come mealtime. Highlights of the rave reviews include the raved-about brunch service.

If you like, go for the resort’s special package, Romance at the Falls .

Most of the East Coast is beautiful during fall and is a great spot to spend crisp autumn days and enjoy a multitude of adorable romantic fall getaways.

Explore ho t els and  Airbnbs near Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie, Washington

8. Catalina Island, California

A california playground.

There’s a reason Catalina is called the Island of Romance. There’s plenty to do, whether it’s riding on a bicycle built for two and exploring ocean-front roadways and lush canyon drives, parasailing or kayaking, golfing, whale or dolphin watching on an ocean rafting adventure, hiking, or enjoying a round of golf, a day spa, or a picnic lunch on a secluded cove.

You’ll love the romantic setting of the island’s only city, Avalon , with its distinctive Mediterranean charm. As for where to stay, choose from beachfront properties and whatever else will make you feel good.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Catalina Island, California

9. Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

The carmel magic.

There’s a good reason Carmel-by-the-Sea has been called one of the most romantic places in the world. It is! Much has to do with the fairytale-like architecture by Hugh Comstock, who in the 1920s designed the village’s cottages with completely rolled eaves, rounded doors, and asymmetrical chimneys that create the magic that inspires romance. 

This small town on California’s central coast is a 1-square-mile European-style village reminiscent of another era. It’s fantasy at its best. You two will enjoy breakfast at charming eateries like La Bicyclette or Village Corner. Stroll through the courtyards and secret passageways in the village, taking in the heart-shaped statues and flowers, art galleries, and boutiques. Sip at some 20 tasting rooms. Catch a sunset on Carmel Beach. Make it like you’re starring in a movie and rent a classic car and drive down scenic Highway 1. 

L’Augerge Carmel is ideal for couples with a blend of romantic old-world charm with the luxury of modern amenities. Pamper yourselves with in-room spa services or a sunset sail.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

10. Castle Hot Springs, Morristown, Arizona

Desert intimacy.

You can’t go wrong with the Bradshaw Mountains and geothermal hot springs. Just 50 miles outside of Phoenix, you’ll find Castle Hot Springs , a 1,100-acre oasis for those who seek romantic fall getaways. 

Castle Hot Springs offers plenty of adventurous outdoor activities — like the Via Ferrata cable climbing course, horseback riding, and canyon hikes — for active couples, but also time to chill with yoga, meditation, and a soak in the ancient hot springs. It’s intimate, with just 30 private spring bungalows and sky-view cabins. Come nightfall, stargaze (if you can take your eyes off one another for a minute) with telescopes in your room and cuddle in your outdoor Sonoma stone tubs filled with natural thermal spring water.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Castle Hot Springs, Morristown, Arizona

11. The Glen House, Greens Grant, New Hampshire

Mother nature at her best.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains are prime leaf-peeping territory. The fall foliage and the majestic mountains can be a love potion. 

At the foot of Mount Washington, surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest, you and your honey can nest at The Glen House . The boutique hotel’s indoor saltwater swimming pool is a great place to soak after a day of exploring in the White Mountains.

The Glen House is surrounded by walking, hiking, and biking paths as well.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near The Glen House, Greens Grant, New Hampshire

12. Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Scottsdale, Arizona

Get wet and wild.

There’s no need to guess about intentions with Andaz’s Let’s Stay in (the Shower) Tonight package. It’s full steam ahead with this sensual shower retreat under the dual-head rainfall shower with Body Bliss Sensuous scrubs and oils with the oh-so-sexy aroma of jasmine and pink grapefruit. You set the vibe with a DJ-curated shower playlist. With a bottle of champagne, strawberries, and edible chocolate body butter, you two are in for a night to remember. When you come up for air, there are three pools, a spa, yoga, and meditation classes.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Scottsdale, Arizona

13. THesis Hotel, Miami

Sensual florida sunshine.

Miami is just sexy, and the THesis Hotel is the locale to get the love vibe going. 

Make your way to the THesis’s rooftop pool with tropical views and a bar. There are three restaurants by James Beard-nominated Chef Niven Patel. The Romantic Rendezvous includes a bottle of champagne and chocolates and things to sweeten your stay, like a 15 percent discount at the hotel’s store and a $30 food and beverage credit. Splurge on the THesis Penthouse Suite with panoramic park and Biscayne Bay views.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near THesis Hotel, Miami

14. Maui, Hawaii

A sought-after honeymoon destination, Maui is ideal for romantic occasions, be it an anniversary or a simple romantic getaway with your partner. With temperatures in the 70s and without the pesky crowds, Maui, Hawaii is especially nice for a fall vacation. Whether enjoying the gentle waves on Big Beach or visiting the black sand of Honokalani Beach, Maui’s stunning coast is not to be missed. 

With activities ranging from adventures to relaxation, this paradise island offers memorable moments to treasure for a lifetime. Even the most basic activities have a romantic feel to them against the beautiful Maui backdrop.

And when you tire of the sun, or hiking, there are plenty of world-class spas even outside the opulent resorts. RevitalizeMaui Medicine Spa is one such place that offers a wide range of services to improve your health and boost your appearance.  As for accommodation, Maui’s only adults-only resort, the Hotel Wailea is perfect for your ultimate couple’s trip. The seclusion makes it quiet and romantic, plus you get a complimentary Tesla ride to the shoreline whenever you want. If you’re looking to have an outstanding experience in Maui, this hotel doesn’t disappoint in any department.

Explore hotels and  Airbnbs near Maui, Hawaii

What Are the Most Popular Romantic Fall Getaways in the US?

The US’s most popular romantic getaways in the fall are Maui, Napa Valley, Santa Barbara, and Charleston. If you are looking for one closer to your area, we suggest seeking the closest National Park where you can enjoy the rolling hills and beautiful fall foliage. 

What Are the Best Mountain Romantic Fall Getaways in the US?

Jackson Hole, Aspen, the Great Smoky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and Park City are some incredible mountain romantic fall getaways for couples looking at where to spend a romantic weekend surrounded by natural beauty, and secluded hiking trails. Blue Ridge Mountains and Grand Teton National Park are also popular romantic mountain destinations.

How to Plan a Romantic Fall Getaway?

It depends on the couple. Firstly, you need to choose a destination you are both interested in and secondly, you want to choose the right accommodation with romantic features so you can enjoy your time indoors. Your romantic getaway may include a cozy lodge in the mountains or a luxurious hotel by the seaside.

How Can I Make Romantic Fall Getaways Even More Special?

You can heighten the romance of romantic fall getaways by participating in activities specifically designed for couples, whether enjoying the sunset and the views, admiring the fall foliage down the hiking trails, or signing up for activities like a couples’ massage or private yoga sessions.

Can I Have a Romantic Fall Getaway On a Budget?

Yes, by putting together a budget and itinerary to estimate costs for hotels, activities, transportation, food, and other purchases, it’s possible to have an affordable romantic getaway in the fall. You can also book a hotel with a kitchen, or consider all-inclusive hotels.

Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel. Her work has appeared on CNTraveler.com, TheDailyBeast, Fodors, Afar, Global Traveler Magazine, ShermansTravel, and Newsweek.com among others.

The Best Places to Travel in October

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love beach lounging in summer and exploring snowy wonderlands in winter, there’s something extra special about traveling during the fall. Aside from fewer tourists and lower prices, October brings harvest festivals, Halloween parties, and the best foliage of the year. (And those warm beaches are still open, if you’re willing to fly for them.) Whether you’re looking to view some spectacular fall foliage or escape to the warm Caribbean this year, these are 10 of the best places to travel in October.

Note: Due to the Delta variant of coronavirus, it’s a good idea to consider extra precautions if traveling this fall. We recommend investing in “ cancel for any reason ” travel insurance and only booking changeable flights and accommodations. It’s also crucial to obtain medical insurance that will cover you abroad, and to research different countries’ case and vaccination rates when choosing your destination.

Salem, Massachusetts

It’s Halloween this month, so where better to book a trip than America’s unofficial witching capital? Snag a room at The Hotel Salem or The Merchant (they’re both owned by Lark Hotels, famed for its funky makeovers of countless New England inns) and then make your way into town. Salem celebrates its connection to the occult all month with a program of events, including horror film festivals, séances, and a fair with psychics on hand to read your future. (See complete calendar here .)

During the festivities, it’s worth pausing to consider the history of Salem’s witch trials at the 1692 Salem Witch Museum. The museum recreates the trials using actual documents as the basis for its life-size stage sets, and hosts an exploration of witchcraft in all its forms through the ages.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of the best places to travel in October, as the month signals the height of springtime in the southern hemisphere. That means you can plan on tons of outdoor activities, from walking among spring blooms in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden to touring vineyards in Franschhoek. You could also spend an entire trip hopping between Cape Town’s best beaches. Camps Bay Beach is worth visiting for the views of Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles alone, as is Windmill Beach (a 10-minute walk from Boulders Beach) for its warm water and boulders you can jump off.

Stay at Readers’ Choice Awards darling Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel , 15-room Georgian-era townhouse tucked away in a residential street in Gardens (a fashionable neighborhood known for its restaurants, bars, and interior shops). The street-level luxury suites come with their own spacious sun terraces and private pools, making you feel like you’re in an incredibly beautiful private home.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Known as “the most photographed event in the world,” the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October 2 to 10) does not disappoint, offering families and travelers the chance to get up close with hundreds of seven-story balloons ranging from cute animals to Darth Vader. You'll want to wake up before dawn to get a prime viewing spot for the Mass Ascension, when all the balloons rise together to the tune of "The Star Spangled Banner."

You can crash later that night at Hotel Chaco , a sleek, contemporary property with Native American–inspired art and architecture located in the heart of Old Town. That ideal location and perfect October weather means you can explore all the museums and markets downtown without breaking a sweat.

Loreto, Mexico

We’re big fans of the Baja California Sur peninsula in Mexico, with its beautiful scenery and luxury resorts. While most tourists flock to Los Cabos , set your sights on the underrated city of Loreto. Located about 230 miles north of Cabo, the town is best known for its secluded, unspoiled setting on the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For stress-free planning, book a stay at Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa at the Islands of Loreto , where guests can enjoy scuba diving tours, cultural city tours, whale watching excursions, kayaking, surfing, and ATV desert tours. After a day spent adventuring, head back and unwind at the 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa or one of the resort’s five swimming pools.

Jillian Dara

Charlie Hobbs

Alexandra Hall

Meaghan Kenny

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen may seem like a bit of an obvious choice (hello, mountains famously full of yellow leaves), but obvious isn’t always a bad thing. Hotel Jerome is a great place to set up camp, with a huge array of activities on tap for guests looking for an outdoor adventure—think horseback riding in the Rockies, riding a Jeep through alpine backcountry, and stand-up paddleboarding along the Colorado River. The hotel can also arrange day trips to the Maroon Bells, a pair of mountains that is one of the most photographed spots in the entire state. In fact, professionals are known to flock to the shores of Maroon Lake well before sunrise to nab that stunning fall shot.

The Bavarian Alps, Germany

An autumn trip to southern Germany is about so much more than Oktoberfest (which has been canceled for 2021 anyway). Fall may be the best season to visit the Bavarian Alps , when the weather is perfectly cool and the mountains transform into a technicolor dreamscape. The season is prime for outdoor enthusiasts as well, with areas like Berchtesgaden and Lake Tegernsee lending themselves to some epic scenic hikes. Shutterbugs are never disappointed by the Disney-esque Neuschwanstein Castle, whose white turrets look best against a backdrop of deep reds and oranges.

Spend at least a couple days tucked away in Hotel Bachmair Weissach , a modern alpine property located in the lake town of Tegernsee. With walls adorned with antlers, a cloistered courtyard, plaid carpets, and scalloped wood balconies off each of its 141 rooms, it will fulfill every romantic Bavarian fantasy you can think of.

Barbados made headlines in 2020 when it announced its Welcome Stamp visa for sun-seeking digital nomads. Valid for 12 months, the visa allows anyone earning over a certain salary to live and work remotely temporarily. If you’re not ready to commit to a year-long visit, it’s still worth flying down here in October. Book an oceanfront villa at The Crane , one of the country’s finest resorts, and spend a few days exploring the Bajan rum circuit.

Though it’s now ubiquitous across the Caribbean, rum was formally first distilled at the Mount Gay Rum headquarters in 1703. Head to its visitor center and you’ll be able to learn more of that history, as well as sample a range of great dark and white blends. Then head to Bathsheba Beach on the east coast—one of the best stretches of sand in the world—where you'll find big, surf-able waves and shallow pools carved by the coral reef right off the shore.

Asheville, North Carolina

Don't discount the South when it comes to fall foliage, especially the Blue Ridge Parkway and Carolina mountains. Make Asheville your home base for exploring the parkway in both directions: to the south, drive to Pisgah National Forest, filled with waterfalls and fall foliage–covered hills on view from Looking Glass Rock, and to the north, the curving Linn Cove Viaduct hugs Grandfather Mountain, offering some of the parkway’s most iconic views.

Get a dose of the funky lifestyle in downtown Asheville: sample the African-meets-Appalachian food at Benne on Eagle , browse fem theory and queer lit at Malaprop's Bookstore and Cafe , and drink a Strawberry Milkshake IPA at Highland Brewing Company . Stay at Asheville's best boutique property, The Foundry Hotel, for comfortable rooms with exposed brick walls, a chic lobby bar, and a restaurants serving up modern spins on comfort food.

Santorini, Greece

More than two million people visit Santorini each year. To dodge those crowds—and to experience a more authentic side of the island—plan your trip during the off-season in ​​October and November. Visit Red Beach and take in the legendary sunsets in Oia, of course, but then search for some more under-the-radar spots. Only one in 20 travelers to Santorini goes to Akrotiri, an almost perfectly preserved ancient city and archaeological site. Visit some wineries at Vlychada, or hire a guide to take you around Akrotiri.

Then get some rest at Incognito Villa , located at the end of a dirt track on the beach near Monolithos and the airport. It has its own garden and a little pool, and you can walk in either direction along the beach to a taverna. Even in the height of summer, it is amazingly quiet.

Hudson Valley, New York

If you're looking to totally lean into the cider-sipping, sweater-wearing, pumpkin-picking vibe of fall, look no further than the Hudson Valley. Aside from offering primo leaf peeping opportunities, October is the best time to go apple picking or sample some hard cider made from local produce at Angry Orchard. Alternatively, take in a movie at the Four Brothers Drive-In Theater or celebrate Halloween with the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze in the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor ( advance reservations required). More than 7,000 pumpkins are displayed there each night, including a 25-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, all of which are carved onsite by a team of 1,000 volunteers.

Look to Warren Street in the heart of town for accommodations: either at the retro Rivertown Lodge , complete with wood fire burners and bicycles to borrow, or the relatively new Maker Hotel , filled with one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and a restaurant serving up ingredients sourced from local farms.

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The best holiday destinations in October 

By Sarah James

October can be many things. It can be the dreamy scent of bonfire smoke on restorative air; pumpkins on porches; blazing leaves. Or, Down Under, it might be the abundance of spring – and a fine time to explore new Aussie cooking . In much of Asia , rains and humidity are abating, so both riotous cities and off-grid escapes are at their best. And with the steamy, congested summer a distant memory, it’s the savvy traveller’s time for a classic California road trip , or an in-demand beach break. We’ve got October holiday ideas for sustainable touring, shopping, stays and getting around, too. For more, see our guide to where is hot in October .

Our choices for the best holiday destinations in October

Temperature: 27°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Perfect autumn beach destination: Europe, a Mediterranean island, but so far south-east it has the climate of the Middle East. Enter Cyprus. A rich history and eclectic culture, a blissful climate and fantastic beaches. Away from the dramatically beautiful coastline and the beachfront hotels is the lesser-explored interior, the Troodos mountains – the Cotswolds of Cyprus – with their vineyards and hillside villages and friendly tavernas.

Where to stay: Anassa is one of our favourite hotels in Europe, particularly for families. For a more adult stay, try the glossy beachside Amavi in Paphos. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Cyprus .

Los Cabos, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 15 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT-7

Beachy Eden ‘Cabo’ is all about switching off in style. This sun-drenched spot is always hot hot hot: where smart hotels such as the One&Only have restaurants by elite chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and host birthday parties for starry guests including Jennifer Aniston. In winter, all and sundry come for the weather (it rains in summer). Praise be for October, then, when the mercury’s high but occupancy low. Los Cabos is actually two towns at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula – Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The latter retains more traditional charm, and has the chicest hotels: mid-century fans will love Thompson’s The Cape. Don’t miss Puerto Raiz in San José del Cabo, an outdoor foodie hub with two restaurants and a distillery, set within 13 acres of orchards and gardens. All produce is sourced onsite – including for the distillery’s spirits and cocktails – while cheese, meat and seafood come from local purveyors in neighbouring Baja towns such as La Paz and Todos Santos.

Where to stay: One&Only Palmilla , an elegant retreat and one of the best hotels in Los Cabos .

Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Temperature: 25°C high; 20°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+3

It's springtime in Mauritius in October; the weather is warming up after a long, warm winter. But it's not yet humid or rainy. Huge Indian Ocean-sized flowers are bursting in bloom and animal hoots and chattering come riffling out of the rainforest. There’s not a lot you can do about the carbon-belching flight to Mauritius, but, once you’re there, you can opt for a sustainable stay. Mauritius Conscious Travel offers solar-powered glamping with vegetarian meals sourced from an onsite garden, plus motor-free day trips by sea kayak, mountain bike and climbing rope. If anyone offers you a trip to Mauritius at any other time of year, we urge you not to turn it down. But October is definitely a goodie.

Where to stay: For a private stay, Maradiva is a smart all-villa resort. At Shangri-La Le Touessrok , guests can enjoy exclusive access to a private island. See more of the top hotels in Mauritius .

Provence, France

Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours by plane; 6.5 hours by Eurostar Time difference: GMT+1

Everybody goes to Provence in summer. But for food, for tranquillity, for scenery, October is deeply delicious, its vineyards a vibrant ochre, morning mists shrouding the glades of the Luberon at dawn. Autumn is the season of wine and truffles and food festivals, when Provence’s slow-paced villages are uncrowded except for locals, markets heaped with harvest spoils. And the weather is still largely warm and dry – ideal T-shirt weather for country walks and bike rides.

Where to stay: Hôtel Crillon Le Brave is a classic favourite; while Coquillade has just reopened after a facelift, a restored Provençal village in the Luberon, with spoiling suites, a destination spa, and its own vineyards.

Málaga, Spain

Temperature: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

On Spain ’s sunniest costa, Málaga’s exuberant young crowd has injected a fresh energy into this little seaside city, earning it a reputation for being a pocket-sized Barcelona , where you’ll find sizzling art and food scenes and late-summer heat. Its charming old town, though small, is packed with buzzy little restaurants and boutiques selling artisan-made fashion and homewares; there’s a museum dedicated to Picasso and a theatre run by Antonio Banderas, both Málaga natives. More modern kicks are found at the regenerated port with its Rubik’s-Cube-like Pompidou Centre. And why not explore Málaga carbon-free – Urban Bicycles rents out the most beautiful handmade mint-green bikes for cruising along the promenade, which runs from the city centre to the beach bars north of the city.

Where to stay: At the 18th-century Palacio Solecio , which opened in 2020 after a full overhaul to become the city’s most beautiful hotel, and the latest in Pablo Carrington’s stable (along with Formentera’s Gecko Hotel & Beach Club and Mallorca’s Cap Rocat).

The Greek islands, Greece

Temperature: 24°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

The more southerly of the small Greek islands – the Dodecanese and the Cyclades – are still hot and sunny well into October – and there are some sensational beaches on which to enjoy it. Rhodes, with the lovely cobbled Lindos and parties in its ancient ruins. Milos , which has some of the best beaches in the Greek Islands. We love unspoilt Symi, Nisyros and Patmos ; while Santorini and Mykonos are eternal big-hitters. Pick any one, they're all lovely. Or go island-hopping around them all. Just remember: cruise ships are an issue on the Greek islands, disgorging thousands into small port towns and diverting visitors to just a small number of shops and restaurants. If you’re island-hopping, opt to do it by sailboat instead: this is not only more environmentally friendly, but smaller vessels can take you to more off-the-beaten-track beaches, coves and towns.

Where to stay: We have a long list of the best Greek island hotels to choose from. In terms of the newest openings to know about, Once in Mykonos Luxury Resort is a chilled hideaway for young families and dapper partygoers. Another name to note is Oku Kos , which effortlessly combines local culture with relaxation.

Japanese Alps, Japan

Temperature: 20°C high; 9°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

The masses might go mad for cherry blossom season, but arguably Japan ’s most arresting sight is its Alps in autumn. Vibrant reds, oranges and yellows sprawl across the ranges, reflected in jade-green lakes and rivers. Hiking trails get very busy, but the outstanding vistas more than make up for it, and the ever-organised Japanese excel at high-altitude mountain huts, where you can get a private room and bento box-style dinner. Afterwards, the spa towns around Takayama are adept at soothing aching limbs. Upmarket ryokans, such as Fukuji Onsen’s Yumoto Choza, offer both outdoor and indoor hot-spring baths, fine-dining kaiseki dinners and gorgeous traditional rooms with tatami mats and sliding paper screens.

Ningaloo Reef

Temperature: 33°C high; 16°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 16 hours 45 minutes to Perth direct, then 1 hour 50 minutes to Learmonth for Ningaloo. Time difference: GMT+8

Off the coast of Western Australia , the country’s most pristine coral reef has become known as a marine superhighway. Diving and snorkelling trips are technicolour dreams, teeming with fish, turtles and sharks, and Ningaloo Reef is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can swim alongside whale sharks and humpback whales, when they journey alongside the reef on their on their way to feeding grounds in the Antarctic. Or take a boat out as they breach, dramatically, out of the water around you.

Where to stay: Guests can walk straight from their safari tent at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef – the only hotel in the Cape Range National Park – into the marine-rich waters of the reef. The tented camp’s local guides will unearth the wonders of sea and bush, and arrange experiences such as swimming with whales.

Connor Sturges

Lauren Burvill

CNT Editors

María Casbas

Temperature: 14–26ºC Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13h 30m (one change) Time difference: GMT+2

Marking the turn of winter into spring, October is a wonderful month to visit this storied Indian Ocean island. The weather is dry and warm, the nights are cool, the jacarandas are in bloom, and it is egg-laying season for turtles and birthing season for lemurs – poster girls for Madagascar’s unique and diverse indigenous wildlife, which is found in abundance from the country’s ancient forests to its dreamy white-sand beaches.

Where to stay: On cast away fantasy Nosy Ankao off Madagascar’s north coast, Miavana is the best eco-lodge in the country: a five-star private-island resort dedicated to conservation, with expert guides to take guests lemur-and turtle-watching, fishing and diving. Abercrombie & Kent offers the 13-night Classic Madagascar trip from £5,960pp.

Darjeeling, India

Temperature: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

This month marks the end of monsoon season, and an excellent time to visit India’s most famous hill station as the rain and fog peel back to reveal extravagant Himalayan views. Top of the list should be a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill, to see the frosted peaks of the world’s third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga, bathed in a peachy glow. The effect is said to be best in mid-October; keep your eyes peeled and you’ll even spot Everest on the left. Other than that, it’s a relaxing time tasting the ‘Champagne of teas’ at local plantations, riding the UNESCO-listed steam railway (affectionately known as ‘the toy train’) and taking afternoon tea in Victorian-style heritage hotels.

Where to stay : Ging Tea House is among the oldest tea estates in the region, from which you can take lovely guided hikes. Or see more hotels across India for gorgeous monsoon views . Do remember that water scarcity is a huge problem in Darjeeling, so look for hotels with responsible practices around conservation (such as rainwater harvesting), and be mindful of how much you use.

Vienna, Austria

Temperature : 15°C high; 5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2hrs 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Though Austria’s capital is better known for grand imperial palaces and an even grander musical legacy (Mozart and Beethoven), one of the city’s finest assets is its urban vineyards. Forget a designated driver, just take the tram to the pretty outer suburbs, where rows of vines spread across grassy slopes, as skyline views and the Danube stretch out below. October marks the harvest, when the vineyards are at their greenest and winemakers open up their operations to enquiring minds (and mouths). There are several designated wine trails to follow, where vintners hand out samples from both cellar and kitchen, and autumn’s mild, sunny days are ideally suited to frolics in the fields. Where to stay: Park Hyatt Vienna , a magnificently grand stay – one of our favourite hotels in Vienna .

Austin, Texas

Temperature: 27°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT-6

Austin’s other festival happens in October: Austin City Limits , in Zilker Park – an altogether easier shebang to negotiate than SXSW if you’re not in the industry. And autumn brings glorious weather to Texas – blue skies, mild warm days, low humidity – which is just right for a road trip out of the USA’s coolest, weirdest state capital across the high Texan desert to find historical charm in San Antonio and more weirdness, along with knockout art and sensational food, in Marfa. Rent bikes at Lance Armstrong’s Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop , fired up by a farm-sourced, single-origin, Fair-Trade, shade-grown, home-roasted coffee from the shop’s Juan Pelota Cafe.

Where to stay: The Texas-based Bunkhouse group has places to stay in Austin and San Antonio, including Austin’s  Carpenter Hotel  in a former union hall near Zilker Park and beautiful  Hotel Havana  in a riverside house in San Antonio, while avant-garde hotelier Liz Lambert, a true original, is behind the out-there trailer park  El Cosmico  in Marfa.

Churchill, Canada

Temperature: 1°C high; -5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 21 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

Better to be a visitor than a resident in Arctic Churchill, which in autumn earns the dubious honour of becoming “polar bear capital of the world”. As the surrounding Hudson Bay freezes, these massive mammals – male polar bears can weigh as much as 10 men – invite themselves over, in search of seals. Great news for wildlife watchers, who can board specially reinforced tundra buggies to get up close to earth’s largest land carnivore; not so great for the people of Churchill, who are apt to find polar bears hanging around like delinquent youths at the local bus stop. The largest groups gather in October. Consider a tundra buggy safari with Frontiers North Adventures , respected locally for thoughtful initiatives including creating the town’s first recycling programme; employing staff and sourcing supplies from within the community; and investing in causes such as Churchill’s Canadian Junior Rangers and non-profit conservation outfit Polar Bears International .

Atacama Desert, Chile

Temperature: 25°C high; 5°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21hrs Time difference: GMT -4

The world’s driest desert isn’t the hottest, but it is perhaps the most starkly beautiful – so Mars-like that actual Mars rovers are brought here for test drives. Red canyons and sand dunes, whooshing geyers and steaming volcanoes, salt flats and hot springs stretch out as far as the eye can see. It’s largely devoid of a drinking water supply or any natural shade, so there are few settlements, which means no pollution, explaining why it has also lately garnered buzz as a premier stargazing destination. The fabulously remote Explora Atacama, for example, has a private observatory as well as a spa and bespoke-bred horses. October, shoulder season, offers a holy trinity: empty vistas unspoiled by fellow visitors, lower room rates and temperate daytime conditions. Don’t ignore the highland hamlets and historic sites in the Atacama region – spending your tourist dollars here helps to sustain local and indigenous communities and preserve their heritage. Where to stay: Hotel Wara , a spacious and rambling escape in the desert. Explora Atacama , meanwhile, is a gorgeously rugged ranch turned spoiling escape, with a spa, an observatory and an exemplary restaurant.

Watch a video of a dramatic ride across the Atacama Desert

Rome, Italy

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Tutti Italia is on holiday all month long in August. You might think that would make Rome relatively quiet, with every Roman gone to the beach, but it's not; it's unbearably busy and unbearably hot. July, too, is unbearably busy and hot; so is much of June. May and September used to be quieter, but lots of people realised that and now they are busy too. Winter can be a bit miserable, though Christmas is quite busy. So October, by default, becomes our month of choice to visit Rome , when it is less busy, still lovely and warm, and you can selfie at the Trevi Fountain in that magic late-summer sunlight without quite so many tourists ruining the view.

Where to stay: Hotel de' Ricci , a retro-cool hotel in an artsy neighbourhood and one of the best hotels in Rome .

The Lake District, UK

Temperature: 10°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours by train from London Time difference: GMT+0

Even when it rains – and it does rain here, a lot – the Lake District must be one of the most wistfully beautiful places in the world. Never more (many would say) than in fiery autumn, when mist and woodsmoke mix in the morning and good days are pin-sharp, bright with red-gold trees and bracken covering the fells. If only someone could capture such beauty in words.

Where to stay: Foodies will love the Michelin-starred restaurant at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House . For a quant village stay, check in to The Black Bull Inn . For a private stay, we love the look of this cosy Airbnb near Ullswater . For more, check out our list of the best Airbnbs in the Lake District .

New England, USA

Temperature: 17°C high; 7°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 7 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

As above, except with less rain, and leafpeepers (for that is what they call them here) tend to drive to look at the Fall foliage rather than put on walking boots. Combine the fiery Vermont countryside with a Boston city break.

Where to stay: Castle Hill Inn , the best places to watch the boats become silhouettes against the Atlantic Ocean, one of the best things to do on Rhode Island .

Temperature: 35°C high; 16°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+1

You can make a convincing case for Botswana as the world’s greatest safari destination. The government’s “low impact, high experience” mandate makes for more intimate camps; Serengeti-like jeep scrums just aren’t a thing. Then there’s the Okavango Delta, an immaculate wetland wilderness teeming with life. (Conservation is so successful that South Africa relocates endangered rhino here.) Tourism tails off in October because of rising heat, but the flooded Okavango is water-cooled, while a lack of vegetation – munched over the dry winter – puts game-viewing at its peak. Prices drop towards the end of the month, and the new, solar-powered Qorokwe Camp by Wilderness Safaris, sitting on its own lagoon, is a slick pick. A bush walk with the San – the indigenous people of the Kalahari desert – conserves their culture in more ways than one, fostering both education for visitors and employment for the San. But do your research before booking: some tours can be less than respectful. Where to stay: Xigera Safari Lodge , a lodge putting a swish edge on sustainability, or read about the best Botswana safari holidays in the Okavango Delta .

Seville, Spain

Temperature: 26°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

A hot destination right now, the winds of change are finally blowing through old Seville – and October is the best time to visit for fresher air, when the winding streets are a little less sultry but no less romantic. Culturally there's a lot happening, from pop-up galleries and cafés to a gastronomic revolution.

Where to stay: For a taste of truly regal extravagance, book in to Hotel Alfonso XIII . For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Seville .

Temperature: 29°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 18 hours Time difference: GMT-11

With the summer crowds gone, low rainfall and mellowing prices before the winter holidays, what better time to head for Hawaii? Of course, there’s more to the archipelago than Big Island: Kauai for secret swimming holes and charming local bars; Oahu for top food and surf; and even Maui, with its ever-popular 30 miles of beach, has some hush-hush stuff up its sleeve – seek out the rural artists’ community at Makawao, or go on an agri-visit to Surfing Goat Dairy, a farm on the slopes of a volcanic crater. Given the amount of importing that goes on here – and that goes for hotels, restaurants and shopping chains as much as groceries – shopping local helps the Hawaiian people maintain an identity that is uniquely their own. Buying locally made fashion not only guarantees designs that are true to the culture, but supports master weavers and artisans: see the likes of Hana Hou (Big Island); Native Intelligence (Maui); Na Mea Hawaii (Oahu); and Ohana Shop (Kauai). Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Lana'i , an alluring escape.

Perugia, Italy

Temperature: 18°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK : 2 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

It’s not difficult to get excited about a place that holds an annual 10-day festival celebrating the world’s favourite sweet treat. Every October, Umbria’s capital in central Italy hosts cooking classes, exhibitions and (most importantly) tasters to celebrate the town’s most famous export – chocolate. It’s a diabetic’s purgatory, a sweet lover’s dream and a local staple. The Belgians have their pralines, Oaxaca has its drinking chocolate and the Swiss have Lindt – but Perugia is home to baci. The word translates as “kisses”, and the story goes that a young chocolatier created a special sweet for her paramour, wrapped in a love letter and – naturally – sealed with a kiss. Today, baci somewhat seductively resemble a nipple, and still come wrapped in romantic proverbs and poems. Perugia is also a town rich in history and art, set on a hilltop peppered with medieval aqueducts, curious cobbled staircases and views that appear out of nowhere.

Where to stay: Find boutique hotels in Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

The Galapagos Islands

Temperature: 25°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT-7

Out of this world all year round – there is no other wildlife like this on earth. However for maximum nature shows, it's peak season for fish and birds from June until the end of October in the Galápagos Islands . It's also when there's least rain. Wait until October and most of the other tourists will have gone back to work; plus the sea should have warmed up a bit in case you were thinking of taking a dip (and you should) to get up close to the phenomenally varied marine life. And while most visitors explore the Galápagos via small cruise ships, it is possible to book land-based tours, where you’ll stay on several islands and take small- boat excursions by day. This means eating at locally run restaurants, visiting land-based businesses (such as farms), and exploring the human history of the islands, too.

Where to stay: Finch Bay , one of the island’s longest-standing hotels as recommended in our expert's guide to the Galapagos .

Taipei, Taiwan

Temperature: 27°C high; 22°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+7

Yet to draw the trend-obsessed like Tokyo , or shoot to relevance like Seoul , the Taiwanese capital is a broadly undiscovered, just-as-thrilling blend of both. From Taoist temples to record-setting skyscrapers, flashy shopping malls to throbbing, neon-lit night markets, it’s a fascinating cultural smash: all cheap street-side beers and grilled cuttlefish on a stick one minute; a bonkers club with a waterfall on the dance floor the next. Towards the end of October the rain stops, humidity dials down and skies clear, so you can take in the glitzy cityscape, best viewed from the 230ft Miramar Ferris Wheel, or the 89th floor of once-world's-tallest tower, Taipei 101.

Where to stay: There’s more bling at the W , where room categories have names like Fabulous and Extreme Wow.

Temperature: 31°C high; 25°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+6

October is the beginning of dry season in Vietnam’s north and south, where monumental natural spectacles and buzzing city scenes both abound. Up top, hill station Sapa is the gateway to misty treks; the capital Hanoi is all chaos, condensed-milk coffees on low plastic stools and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Down at the bottom, the Mekong Delta is a whole world bobbing on canals and streams; and Ho Chi Minh City is where the bohos go – don’t miss The Café Apartment, a nine-storey block stuffed with fairy-lit mini-boutiques and craft coffee stores. High season creeps up in November, so it’s also the last chance for lower rates. In Sapa, the most popular activities are trekking the terraced slopes and staying with hill tribes, and the best way to do both is with Sapa O’Chau . This social enterprise, founded by a single mother from the Black Hmong tribe, is a nonprofit homestay and trekking service, which puts funds back into the community: improving village schools, providing English classes to Hmong guides and street vendors, distributing winter clothes to local children, and more. Where to stay: An Lam Retreats in Ninh Van Bay , one of the best hotels in Vietnam .

Adelaide, Australia

Temperature: 21°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21 hours Time difference: GMT+8:30

Sydney and Melbourne – so yesterday. It’s Adelaide’s time to shine, and how. The wine-producing Adelaide Hills had long overshadowed South Australia’s coastal capital, but a vital new food scene is changing all that. And thank the Hills’ surrounding farms for fresh finds that Adelaide’s urban rivals can only covet. All that natural bounty is paired with October’s crisp air, as the beginnings of spring slough off winter’s edge. If you fancy getting off-grid, CABN has a number of tiny houses tucked into the South Australian wilderness, less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide’s CBD. These solar-powered minimalist escapes also have composting loos and rainwater catchment, and sit close to conservation parks, heritage bushland and wine country.

Read more about the best restaurants in Adelaide

Mendocino, California

Temperature: 14°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-8

October is when Northern California finally gets its act together, dropping the fog and chilly winds that never fail to surprise under-dressed tourists, opting instead for more Cali-appropriate shimmering sunshine and bright, blue skies. It’s also the ideal time to make the road trip to one of the state’s best-kept secrets, Mendocino County: a thrilling coastal drive 160 miles north of San Francisco, with enough dramatic sea cliffs, lanky redwoods and crashing ocean to put Big Sur to shame. Mendocino town looks like a slice of New England picked up and dropped off on a California headland, and recalls its 1950s bohemian heyday with a surplus of art galleries and no chains. That hippie spirit also lives on in the Mendocino wine region, known for the country’s biggest haul of organic vines. Try a true taste of Mendocino at Harbor House Inn , where the 25-seat dining room hosts an ever-changing, hyper-local menu that has been awarded the county’s first-ever Michelin star. Everything you eat here has been sourced from within a 30-mile radius.

Where to stay: Half an hour up the coast, The Inn at Newport Ranch is a place of wild extremes. Or see more of the best hotels in California for more ideas.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Temperature: 35°C high; 24°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 7 hours Time difference: GMT+3

Summer is when Dubai hibernates: as the desert city heats up to 40 degrees Celsius and beyond, even skyscrapers seem to perspire, the al-fresco fun packs up and everyone bolts for the AC-cooled inside. But in October Dubai springs to new life: beach clubs reopen, restaurant terraces are jammed and a dip in the Arabian Gulf no longer feels like swimming in a scorching-hot spring. Temperatures in the high 20s also make a desert excursion less like an episode of Bear Grylls ’ Born Survivor. Enough of the world’s biggests and tallests? Poke into the boutiques, galleries and Foster + Partners-designed buildings of the freshly minted Dubai Design District. Where to stay: Al Maha , an exclusive desert haven set within a conservation reserve. See more of our favourite hotels in Dubai for more ideas.

Temperature: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT+5

The remote Himalayan kingdom known for its Gross National Happiness Index, pristine peaks and precariously perched Tiger’s Nest Monastery, makes a point of exclusivity – foreign visitors face a hefty daily tariff for the privilege of stepping within its borders. The payoff, of course, is the rare purity of a nation largely untouched by the outside world. Given that much of Bhutan’s pleasures are found in hikes to sacred mountains and remote temples, the cool mountain air and clear skies of October make it a prime time to visit. The Six Senses Bhutan – comprising five different lodges – adds a touch of luxury to some of the country’s most scenic valleys and forests. The daily tariff ensures that Bhutan only deals in sustainable tourism – limiting visitors in this way protects the kingdom’s culture, land and traditions. But you can make sure the money you spend goes directly to the Bhutanese you meet by shopping in local markets, eating in neighbourhood restaurants and sleeping in heritage properties or homestays.

Where to stay: Read our spa review of COMO Uma Paro, Bhutan .

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 5 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Perhaps the most captivating country in the Middle East, Jordan has an embarrassment of spectacular things to see: ancient and awe-inspiring Petra, the Roman city of Jerash, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, great desertscapes where you can stay overnight in a Bedouin camp. In October there are still bright sunny days that light the rock of Petra up rose-red; but it is cool enough to journey into the Valley of the Moon on camel or horseback by day, and warm enough to sleep out under the starry sky by night. Don’t miss the opportunity to camp out in Wadi Rum. A co-operative of Bedouin tribes runs the majority of trekking and camping trips, and they rely on tourism to hold onto their traditional way of life.

The Turkish Coast

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Turkey's beautiful Aegean and Bosphorus coasts are still hot in October, the beaches uncluttered by holidaymakers. There's a distinctly Greek feel to these regions, and between the coves you'll find dreamy boutique hotels that are good value for money out of season, and unexpectedly boho fishing villages. Alaçati is one of our favourites; and picturesque Selimiye, an hour from Dalaman, tipped (by us) as the new Kalkan. Likewise Istanbul – too prickly, too hot in summer – is more pleasant to explore out of season.

Where to stay: Mandarian Oriental in Bodrum , a glamorous, starry beach base. Alaçati is a good spot for small boutique hotels – a better bet for eco-friendliness than a sprawling coastal resort. The Stay Warehouse is a super-cool, adults-only converted brewery built from regionally sourced, recycled wood, bricks and glass, and the restaurant serves platters of local fruit, olives and cheese.

Temperature: 23°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 25 Time difference: GMT+1

Mallorca and Ibiza get the lion’s share of the Balearic spotlight. But little Menorca is just as beautiful. In the summer, this tiny island’s roads are largely closed to private vehicles to avoid congestion and protect the natural environment – especially around the most beautiful beaches. By October, things have calmed down, and most summer tourists have left. More fool them: Menorca is still warm and sunny well into the autumn, and the sea – warmed by the Mediterranean sun all summer – is still pleasant to swim in. In shoulder season, you can explore at your own pace.

Where to stay: at Menorca Experimental , a handsome, pared-back hideout from the Parisian Experimental Group, or at Christine Bedfor , a smart townhouse in Mahon.

Temperature: 21°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 20 Time difference: GMT+1

Sicily’s long been drawing Italo-philes after something a little different to the mainland – more rugged, more fierce – but the White Lotus effect has really ramped up tourism to this little island over the past few years. See what all the fuss is about by planning a trip in October when the oppressive summer heat has finally died down, and the peak-season crowds have melted away. The landscape here is extraordinary; cities plonked at the bottom of smoking volcanoes, glossy islands cast away in the sea, and gently crumbling grandiose architecture that hints at a patchwork of influences from Moorish to Norman. You’ll also find some of Europe’s best food here; fat tubes of cannoli and refreshing granita that you won’t stop talking about even after you leave.

Where to stay: In Palermo, we love Villa Igea (which was featured on our 2023 Gold List ) or stay at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

The Best October Anniversary Travel Ideas

Did you know that October is the second most popular time for couples to have a wedding? (June remains first.) This gorgeous month is perfect for super-romantic anniversary travel as well. The weather is glorious, attractions aren't crowded, and the colors, sights, and sounds of fall delight the senses.

For couples eager to travel, these are nine of the top places to get away and celebrate an October anniversary .

Say Oui to Quebec City

Andrew Gunners/Getty Images 

Eastern Canada's most charming destination, Quebec City, will seduce you with its French-accented English, its celebration of culture and creativity, and its contagious joie de vivre. 

Visiting Québec City’s Petit-Champlain district, site of the first French settlement in North America, is like being transported to France without having to make a long overseas flight. The Gallic influence is evident everywhere you look in the fortified city.  

Celebrate your October anniversary by booking a room at the iconic Château Frontenac hotel, recently celebrated its own 125th anniversary. 

Later, time-travel back to the Prohibition Era at one of the city's discreet speakeasies , where the decor of sparkling chandeliers and plush banquettes, plus the entertainment and well-stocked bar evoke a retro (albeit perfectly legal) atmosphere. 

Surround Yourselves in Fall Foliage

Praveen P.N/Getty Images 

October is when fall foliage peaks in many locations, which makes it an ideal time for couples to take a leaf-peeping driving trip in honor of their anniversary. Finally, the heat of summer has subsided, and nature puts on a magnificent show of colors. 

Head due north to see leaves of gold, orange, red, and purple. To get in the spirit, stop at an orchard or country store for fresh-pressed apple cider and cinnamon donuts, and pause to pick a pumpkin.

Consider renting a convertible for the occasion and driving top-down on country lanes. And select accommodations in or close to a forest. The fresh smell, particularly after a rain shower, is as intoxicating as the color show. 

Get High in the Sky in New Mexico

 Bill Heinsohn/Getty

Book a visit to New Mexico far in advance, since October is when the increasingly popular, annual  Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta  takes place, and the sky fills with vividly colored dirigibles.  

If you want to ride in a hot air balloon ride, make sure you have a reservation, and rise early because flights depart at sunrise. Bring a light breakfast to eat as you take in the views of the Rio Grande and Sandia Mountains .

If you like to gamble, book a stay at one of Albuquerque's four-star casinos that have contemporary rooms as well as swimming pools, a spa, and golf. For a more romantic anniversary trip, head north to Santa Fe , and stay at one of its charming hotels.

Toast Your Love with a Visit to Wine Country

Sam Gellman Photography/Getty Images 

Are you wine lovers, or want to learn more about the fruit of the vine? Plan your anniversary trip with a stay at a romantic inn and a wine tasting tour.

Since the year's wine grapes have been harvested and bottled, now it's time to see if it was a good year. To celebrate your anniversary in style, rent a limo to take you from winery to winery, sampling all the way and not having to worry about driving.

For an even bigger treat, choose a winery that has an adjacent  inn , and stay overnight or for a few days to experience the wines, the facility, and the nearby attractions.

Ask if the winery you visit has a vintage for sale that was bottled the year that you married. Drink it now, drink it later, or preserve it and pass it on to your children.

Ride the Rails in Italy

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images 

The best way to travel through Italy is via its excellent nationwide rail system , which makes it easy to experience more than a single destination on your visit (Rome-Florence-Milan is an especially popular route). And across the country, Italy is rife with festivals and food fairs  in October.

Another plus: Fall is the season when hotel prices and airfare across the Atlantic both drop.

Just for fun, sign up for a group cooking class . Even if you don't know baccala from braciole, you'll end up with a scrumptious meal.

Savor the Treasures of New Orleans

drnadig/Getty Images 

New Orleans, with its spirited parades and calendar filled with festivals, seems as if it’s constantly celebrating, and couples are welcome to join in. If music moves you, don’t expect to sit still in New Orleans, which has more musical genres than a jukebox has song selections. October will find the Big Easy weather still a bit steamy—but not so hot, it's not fun to take a spin or two on the dance floor. 

Find a souvenir to commemorate your specific anniversary here. Whether it’s silver, crystal, antique jewelry, or pottery, you’re likely to find prime examples in the charming shops along Royal Street. Art-Deco pieces as well as 50s and 60s retro items on display as well. 

Browsers and those on a budget will appreciate the fun and funky Lower Garden District, along Magazine Street. Like the French Quarter, its restaurants and art galleries are nestled among shops carrying vintage collectibles.

Embark on a Cruise

marion faria photography/Getty Images 

It's always a good time to board a ship, and sail into the blue. 

Sailing up the East Coast to Canada, scenic October cruises call at ports that may include New York City, Boston, Portland, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Prince Edward Island, Montreal, and elsewhere.

Depending on were you dock, a variety of land adventures can take you deeper into each destination. And in October, the foliage is magnificent in this part of the country.

Many cruise lines offer special anniversary packages with amenities such as a bottle of champagne, a rose-strewn bed, a professional portrait, and other goodies to sweeten the voyage.

Tap a Barrel in Ireland

Before the chill of winter sets in, Ireland is a best bet for an October anniversary trip. In Dublin, the crowds have dispersed, so it's easier than ever to get into the city's museums and attractions. 

This month Dublin also celebrates its annual Theatre Festival . But it's worth renting a car to explore more of the country; in October Cork hosts a Guinness Jazz Festival .

For a private tasting experience in Dublin, make a reservation for two at the upscale  Connoisseur Bar in the Guinness Storehouse.

Return to Your Honeymoon Haven

Where did you go on your honeymoon? Did you love it? If so, consider revisiting the resort and destination. And if you can afford it, plan to stay for a few days longer than you did originally.

Do some of the things that you did the first time around, such as booking a romantic dinner at the beach for just the two of you. And add some new activities to the agenda. If you love being on the water and watching the colorful marine life, consider learning to scuba on this visit. 

Upgrade to a better room or suite, and let the resort's general manager know why you've chosen to stay there and what you're celebrating.

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The 10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the US

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10 Best Things to Do in the Southeast This Fall

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

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20 Amazing Places to Visit in October in the USA

There is no question about it: Fall in the USA is iconic! Surprisingly, it isn’t just the foliage that makes it so. I think October is the perfect time for an American Adventure for several reasons, and New England doesn’t hold all the cards either! Here are my favorite gems to explore during this month…

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Nestled in the bend where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge, the historic town of Harper’s Ferry is old America at its finest! 

This month is filled with color as the trees begin to turn, and I discovered charming colonial streets, old-fashioned treats, and a rich history. I also recommend visiting the museums to learn about John Brown’s Raid in 1859, when abolitionists attempted to use the town’s armoury in a failed slave revolt.

Numerous trails took me to the nearby woodlands or up onto the Appalachian Trail, where I saw magnificent views over the quaint old town, the two converging rivers, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Often referred to as ‘almost heaven,’ when I visited, I could see why Harper’s Ferry’s appeal has survived the centuries. It has lots of charm and is steeped in fascinating history and fall foliage, which easily rivals Connecticut! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. 
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Enjoying a segway tour, a zipline and an aerial rope course at the Adventure Center.
• Hiking the easy Murphy-Chambers Farm loop, which took my past lots of history.
• Going on the fun and spooky Harper’s Ferry Ghost Tour.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

From September to early November , temperatures in Asheville are still reasonably warm, so this is a great time to explore the incredible fall foliage. I’m a huge fan of this scenic city, which has also been used in several films, including The Hunger Games and Dirty Dancing; I even saw where the famous lift scene is said to have taken place (Lake Lure)!

I suggest heading out into nature on the well-marked tracks and trails around the Pisgah National Forest or trying Whitewater rafting on the French Broad River. Less adventurous types can take a more refined stroll through the magnificent Biltmore Estate .

It also has strong roots in Appalachian Folk and Bluegrass, and it hosts many festivals and famous residencies at The Orange Peel, where bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and Band Of Horses once recorded.

I highly recommend taking the Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic route, which passes through the town.

• Visitors Center Address:   36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Average temperature  – 20 degrees

My highlights…

• Trying delicious Farm-to-Table cuisine at the chic eatery Rhubarb.
• Admiring the wonderful fall colors and panoramic views at the Swinging Bridge located on Grandfather Mountain.
• Sip on a pumpkin-spiced latte and enjoy a freshly baked muffin at the cozy World Coffee Cafe.

3. New England

At the start of the Fall season (between the end of September and mid-October), the northern states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont hit their peak of autumn colors! 

I love Vermont for its super-cute white clapboard towns, elegant town squares, and historic Peacham, which has been declared Vermont’s most iconic village. I also suggest taking a day hike to Lake Willoughby or Quechee Gorge to watch the sunset at Lake Champlain before exploring Burlington.

I love New Hampshire’s scenic White Mountains and historic towns such as Amherst, which are filled with fine colonial architecture.

Maine has the largest stretch of Coastline in New England and is dotted with gorgeous little fishing villages such as Lubec and the picturesque Stonington.

I suggest you get off the beaten track and head for Northern Maine, where the abundance of nature in places such as Baxter State Park and Moosehead Lake Parks took my breath away! 

• Region: the area is a northeastern region of the US and includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
• Average temperature – 15 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Taking a hot air balloon ride where I saw a unique view of the Connecticut fall foliage.
• Taking a ride on the Lake Winnipesaukee Foliage Train ride, which took me from New Hampshire to Plymouth and I also dined an onboard buffet lunch.
• Dining on a homemade breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor.

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

I love Monument Valley’s spectacularly strange landscapes, and I personally prefer to visit during the autumn months, when temperatures are pleasant and the summer crowds have gone.

It encompasses The Navajo Tribal Park and the iconic Colorado Plateau, home to imposing sandstone Buttes rising in massive, eerie formations from the sandy ground.

I love that the Valley is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever watched a Western. Many early classics were filmed here, including Stagecoach and Once Upon A Time in the West.

I visited most of the Buttes independently, but Hunts Mesa and Mystery Valley required a Navajo guide for safety.

• Visitors Center Address:   U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees
• Hiking the Wildcat Trail which took me around some of the valley’s best scenery.
• Catching a breathtaking sunrise over the unique landscapes.
• Taking a driving tour around the area and photographing the magnificent views.

5. Chicago, Illinois

I personally think fall is the perfect time to visit this vibrant city. September and October are usually mild, and it’s the driest time of year. Even in this bustling metropolis, I could see the gorgeous fall colors in the parks, green spaces, and along tree-lined avenues.

I loved the city’s excellent craft breweries, such as the hip Marz Community Brewing , which served delicious ales alongside tavern-inspired delicacies. I also enjoyed tasting pumpkin pie in a gourmet bakery, a pumpkin-spiced oat milk latte in a cozy coffee shop and visiting a pumpkin patch.

I suggest catching the 24-hour horror movie bonanza at the Southport Theater, enjoying some famous Chicago Blues, immersing yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene and discovering the vast array of outdoor public art from icons like Dali and Calder.

• Visitors Center Address:   301 E Cermak Rd, Chicago IL 60616
• Average temperature – 17 degrees
• People-watching at the Riverwalk, a buzzy spot filled with bars, shops, and restaurants.
• Dining on banana blossom tacos at Boom Plant-Based Kitchen.
• Sipping on a Lychee and Elderflower Martini at The Rooftop at Nobu Hotel. 

6. Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania

The Allegheny National Forest is one of the most famous places in northwestern Pennsylvania to observe fall foliage. Leaves start to turn here in late September and transform into a sea of gold by mid-October.

I loved strolling the breathtaking Kinzua Skywalk to see the views. Originally the Kinzua Viaduct, once the highest bridge in the world, I saw uninterrupted views of the valley below through a glass floor 301 feet high! 

I recommend hiking along the unique Hector Falls or climbing up the hewn stone steps to Rimrock Overlook, a sequence of viewpoints elevated 200ft above the forest offering views over Kinzua Bay and the Allegheny Reservoir.

• Visitors Center Address: 80 East Corydon Street Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, McKean County
• Canoeing on Allegheny Reservoir and relaxing on Kinzua Beach, which surrounds it.
• Biking along Jakes Rocks Overlook and Mountain Bike Trail.
• Exploring the free Zippo/Case Museum, filled with interesting facts from Hollywood and music.

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

The fall offers much more manageable temperatures and less humidity, but it’s still warm enough for swimming in The Gulf of Mexico, bathing on the extensive white sands of Orange Beach, and exploring the water sports and theme parks. 

I loved hiking and biking on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails in Gulf State Park and catching the changing colors under the canopies of leaves. Just watch for snakes, alligators, armadillos, bobcats, and eagles!

• Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Average temperature  – 27 degrees
• Discovering the National Shrimp Festival.
• Playing a round of fun mini golf.
• Riding the famous Ferris Wheel and seeing breathtaking views.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

The Rocky Mountain National Park Spans 415 miles of protected countryside and encompasses Trail Ridge Road, the highest stretch of unbroken paved road in America, which took me up to The Continental Divide.

My favorite beauty spots here were Grand Lake, Emerald Lake, and the historic Keyhole Route up Longs Peak, the highest and most dangerous mountain in the park. This month, the foliage is stunning.

I also highly recommend driving to some of the nearby townships. One of them is Estes Park, a quaint mountain town that offers plenty of shopping and dining and an aerial tramway with amazing views of the imposing Stanley Hotel (which inspired Stephen King’s classic The Shining! ).

• Visitors Information – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
• Average temperature – 8 degrees
• Driving along Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US National Park and seeing breathtaking views.
• Hiking the scenic Emerald Lake Trail.
• Photographing gorgeous Alberta Falls.

9. Austin, Texas

I love Austin for its cool hangouts, laid-back vibes, fantastic live music scene, and the South by Southwest Music Festival .

During the summer, temperatures average 36 degrees, so I much prefer visiting this month when the temperatures are more tolerable and the fall foliage bathes the streets and parks in color. I also love the seasonal festivals, including Oktoberfest, Dia De Los Muertos, and Halloween, with craft beer, carnival and creepy haunted houses!

I always walk down historic 6th Street to enjoy down-home dining, good ale, and live music beneath the romantic lights reflected on the canal. When I cross the little footbridges that span the water, I find quirky delights, from weird museums to secret speakeasies! 

I suggest exploring the breathtaking McKinney Falls State Park or Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. For some Texan tradition, head out to one of the corn mazes or pumpkin patches at a local farm!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Average temperature  – 28 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Visiting Mohawk and catching live music.
• Learning two-step dancing at Broken Spoke.
• Seeing incredible artwork, crafts, and homewares by local makers at the Pecan Arts Festival.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

I personally think this is the best month to enjoy the iconic landscape when daytime temperatures average a pleasant 21 degrees instead of the summer highs of 36 degrees.

The Arches National Park is instantly recognizable, and the ‘Delicate Arch’ (otherwise known as the Old Maid’s Bloomers!) has become a symbol of the entire state of Utah.

This place always fascinates me. This prehistoric landscape has more than 2000 unique natural stone arches, which began to form around 65 million years ago and continue to change and erode minutely as each day passes. I think there is no other place like this in the world, so put this on your bucket list!

• Visitors Center – Moab, UT 84532
• Average temperature – 21 degrees
• Driving the 19-mile-long Arches Scenic Drive and stopping to admire several of the many scenic sights.
• Hiking to the Delicate Arch and grabbing an Insta-worthy shot featuring the picturesque mountains in the background.
• Taking part in the free Ranger-Led program and learning more about the park.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

I love this stunning route! The Blue Ridge Parkway, which traces 469 miles along the mountaintops south of Asheville, North Carolina, to the Virginia State Line and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, took me past many Appalachian beauty spots. I also love trying to spot the diverse wildlife here, such as black bears, river otters, cougars, bald eagles, and elk.

I explored hidden caves and cliffs on the rugged Grandfather Mountain and felt brave enough to cross the mile-high swinging bridge, the highest of its kind in the country!

I suggest heading for Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, or the refreshing Skinny Dip Falls for wild swimming. Taking in the fiery fall foliage from vantage points like Linn Cove Viaduct or the Richland Balsam Overlook (the highest elevation point on the parkway), and if you want to stay a while, I suggest one of the quaint towns such as Asheville, Banner Elk, Black Mountain, or Woodfin.

• Visitor Center Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
• Average temperature  – 13 degrees
• Seeing the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls via the Appalachian Trail. 
• Experiencing world-class wine tasting at one of the local vineyards.
• Cathing live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center.

12. Flagstaff, Arizona

I love visiting this gem when the summer crowds have dispersed, the scorching temperatures have dropped, the trees are alight with color and the weather is crisp and clear!

The famous Route 66 took me directly through this vibrant historic city, and I found it the perfect base for exploring Grand Canyon National Park and Walnut Canyon, which are filled with ancient cave dwellings and the red sandstone homes of the Pueblo tribes.

I also loved visiting the nearby Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments. The contrast between the ancient arid landscape and the soaring heights of the San Francisco Peaks was truly stunning!

My other favourite highlights included the craft breweries, live music, fantastic independent stores, and the nationally acclaimed Museum of Northern Arizona . 

• Visitors Center Address:   1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Indulging in epic amount of pretzels and beer at the excellent craft breweries.
• Hiking the stunning Red Mountain Hiking Trail. 
• Watching the starry night skies at The Lowell Observatory.

13. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 

As an outdoor lover, I can’t get enough of this place! There are 200 miles of unspoilt mountain paths to explore, as well as the Snake River. I go hiking and boating, and you can also go climbing while enjoying the stunning crystal lakes and alpine landscapes. 

There are numerous well-marked trails to explore all the beauty spots, and I always try to spot elk, bears, owls, and colorful native birds along the way.

I suggest taking the Jenny Lake Ferry across the water and hiking up the stunning Cascade Canyon and along the shimmering shoreline of Lake Solitude. For something a little more adventurous, try the Death Valley Trail and take in the fantastic views of Glacial Phelps Lake.

For the best chance of spotting elk, moose, and grizzly bears, head out to the relatively flat Two Ocean Lake Loop. Just ensure you are equipped with bear spray!

• Park Headquarters address: 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012
• Average temperature – 11 degrees
• Taking a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain and seeing the picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake (okay for all ages and ability levels).

14. Maui, Hawaii

I personally think this is a perfect destination for a fantastic fall break. You’ll avoid the crowds, and the weather is warm enough to enjoy the idyllic stretches of sandy beaches and turquoise waters. 

I highly recommend hiking to the top of the Iao Valley State Monument (believed to be a sacred place where ancient indigenous people performed rituals), exploring Haleakala National Park, viewing the waterfalls, and discovering the stunning Kipahulu Coastline.

For an unforgettable experience, hike up to the summit of the dormant volcano at sunrise or sunset to take in glorious views over the unique landscape.

Highlights of my trip included ‘Aloha Fridays,’ a fun street party where I sampled local delicacies at the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (which takes place this month).

• Visitors Center Address: 427 Ala Makani Street, Suite 101, Kahului, HI 96732
• Average temperature  – 25 degrees
• Taking a helicopter tour of this magnificent island.
• Snorkelling at Honolua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary.
• Going on the thrilling Northshore zip line, which took me over towering eucalyptus trees.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is the easternmost county in Wisconsin and is often known as the ‘Cape Cod of The West’.

It is located on a picturesque peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. I love this gorgeous spot for its long shoreline, pretty harbor with bobbing boats, and rare limestone beach.

Five state parks across Door County provide amazing opportunities for trekking, biking, and water sports—especially when the trees are glowing with colors! I also suggest visiting some of the eleven lighthouses, including the historic Cana Lighthouse, built in 1859. 

On my trip, I visited the local fall festivals, such as the Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival and the Fall Festival in Sister Bay. I also loved its laid-back towns, friendly locals, craft brews, and delicious seasonal cuisine.

• Tourist Center Address: 1015 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI
• Average temperature – 14 degrees
• Camping under the stars at Peninsula State Park.
• Attending the Fall Festival and getting involved with fun activities.
• Stopping by the Peach Barn Farmhouse and Brewery for local produce and tasty craft beer.

16. Big Sur, California

This place always wows me when I visit! The whole stretch of Big Sur draws crowds in summer, so I recommend visiting this month instead, as there are fewer tourists, but the weather is still warm.

I loved visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the cascading McWay Falls throw rainbows on the cliff face above the twinkling Pacific Ocean. I also spent hours watching the noisy elephant seals and sea lions hanging out on the rocky outcrops.

Staying overnight in Big Sur can be extremely expensive, so I recommend exploring the coastline from sunrise to sunset and finding accommodation just outside the area. 

• Visitors Center Address: 47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees
• Visiting Point Lobos Natural Reserve, one of my favorite state parks in California.
• Taking a shot of the Insta-worthy Keyhole Arch  on the magnificent Pfeiffer Beach.
• Driving over the iconic landmark, Bixby Creek Bridge and admiring the enchanting views.

17. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

I personally think The Berkshires are just as enjoyable to visit in the fall—the summer crowds are gone, and the colored foliage adds a new kind of magic.

I love hiking and biking through the many State Forests, such as Bear Town or Tolland, home of the serene Otis Reservoir. I also love visiting the delicious farm-to-table eateries here.

If you prefer your views from above, then I would suggest heading for Knife Edge or Squaw Peak and Devils Pulpit, situated within the stunning 503-acre Monument Mountain Reservation . 

My favorite highlights include the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge (the most extensive collection of his paintings worldwide) and The Emily Dickinson Museum near Amherst. 

• Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829, Pittsfield, MA 01202
• Average temperature – 16 degrees
• Watching a concert under the stars at the open-air venue Tanglewood .
• Hiking through Mount Greylock, home to the highest point in the state and great observation points.
• Going boating on Windsor Lake.

18. Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

This month is a great time to visit Las Vegas to avoid the unbearably hot summer temperatures. I also always find great hotel prices at this time of year.

Halloween is a big deal in the city, and I suggest going on a fun ghost tour in the nearby abandoned mining town of Goodsprings, which is very Scooby-Doo!

All the usual adventures are still available, such as helicopter and hot air balloon rides over The Grand Canyon or the famous Strip by night, and the lovely autumn light is a bonus, too! 

Back in town, I loved going on a romantic gondola ride along the Venetian Grand Canal and watching the live shows. Of course, you can also hit the slot machines, which will swallow your dollars any time of year without discrimination!

• Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Average temperature – 29 degrees
• Capturing an unbelievable Instagrammable shot of the Grand Canyon at sunset.
• Going for a Grand Buffet at the MGM Grand, the long food counters were incredible!
• Watching the Fountains of Bellagio.

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Summer is the rainy season in Charleston, so this is a great month to visit. Temperatures are mild, humidity drops, and I always find plenty of excellent hotel deals.

Charleston is the oldest planned Anglo-American town in the country, and I love that its streets are lined with elegant colonial buildings and antebellum manor houses. The very first shot of the Civil War was fired here at Fort Sumter, and relics of the period can be found all around the city.

My favorite areas are the Georgian architecture of Rainbow Row, the stunning Waterfront Park and the elaborate Pineapple Fountain. I also love just walking down Broad Street and browsing its independent shops, boutiques and biscuit-tin-pretty buildings! 

• North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Paddleboarding on Shem Creek.
• Cruising around in a PediCab bike taxi.
• Walking over the Ravenel Bridge over Cooper River and seeing gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor.

20. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This relatively new National Park is a hidden gem sandwiched between the cities of Akron and Cleveland along the banks of the Cuyahoga River. I’m a big fan of this tranquil paradise, home to well-marked trails, canal paths, and The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway .

I love the magnificent Brandy Wine Falls, which cascades down a 60-foot drop and feeds the many more minor falls surrounding it. I also loved the intriguing Ice Box Caves and the spectacular Ledges Overlook, where I saw breathtaking views of the fall foliage.

Long-distance hikers can enjoy exploring the park’s 125 miles of trails, while those who prefer a gentle stroll can tackle shorter routes. Alternatively, I recommend a relaxing shop at Szlays Sweet Corn and Farmers Market .

• Address: 7104 Canal Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125
• Hiking the scenic Ledges Trail and Pine Grove Trail Loop. 
• Checking out the local produce at Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market.
• Taking Insta-worthy shots at the Tinkers Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook.

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

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• Destinations

25 Best October Vacations

Conrad bora bora nui, windham hill inn, lux le morne, elounda bay palace on crete.

• Complete List & Map

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Bora Bora

Guest rooms and romantic suites enjoy views down the valley; some have fireplaces, private porches, or whirlpools. Dinner is served in the Frog Pond Dining Room. The menu changes daily to incorporate fresh local ingredients. Book early for fall foliage or summer weekends. Windham Hill Inn is located about 4.5 hours from New York City and approximately 3 hours from Boston . Springfield Airport is 25 miles or 3/4 hour away. Visit the inn's web site for information about seasonal package offers (800-944-4080, 802-874-4080). Keep reading for more vacation spots in October.

Guests can explore the sheltered coves, take a dip in the sparkling waters or lounge poolside and appreciate the spectacular sunset. Picturesque chalets are scattered throughout a lush tropical garden, and if guests can pry away from the wondrous accommodations, they can enjoy dining in any one of the flavorful restaurants located in the hotel. (Phone: +230 401 4000). Keep reading for more October vacation spots in the U.S.

The resort offers vacationers a host of activities, including a dive school, two private beaches , indoor pool, several outdoor pools and an open-air amphitheater. Other vacation activities and facilities at include tennis courts, a pool and water playground for kids, four restaurants and three bars. ThalaSpa Chenot is one of the top spas in Europe. The philosophy behind the new spa is to understand each guest individually and offer them a choice of therapies which will improve their wellbeing. The Chenot Method incorporates the teachings of traditional Chinese medicine to establish a unity of body, mind and spirit. (Phone: +30 2841 067000)

Soneva Kiri in Thailand

Soneva Kiri by Six Senses, Thailand features a luxury eco villa with a pool which was built from locally sourced building materials and is bio-climatically controlled. You'll get to enjoy lust tropical surroundings and a scenic location on the Gulf of Siam. In addition to the unique villa, this island vacation getaway offers a selection of villa residences, including a suite with a separate spa area, beach villas and a private beach reserve. The island of Koh Kood offers a number of adventure vacation activities, including a fully equipped PADI dive and training center, catamaran sailing, guided jungle treks and more. Guests receive five star luxury service, whether they are relaxing on the beach or having a romantic dinner. (+66 39 619 800).

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, California

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, a heated saltwater pool and whirlpool are perfect for an early morning swim or a day by the pool. The pool deck has an abundance of lounge chairs, as well as private cabanas complete with assorted snacks, beverages, and enhanced service, which can be reserved for the day. The Spa at Estancia is a boutique spa retreat that offers award-winning spa treatments featuring organic products in tranquil treatment rooms or private bungalows. The exclusive spa menu includes a variety of massages and massage therapies, facials, salon services such as manicures, pedicures and waxing and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas and a meditation garden offers ideal places to unwind in peace.

Explore the Rhine Valley with Viking Cruises

Viking Longships have 95 staterooms which accommodate 190 passengers. The two Explorer Suites are as luxurious as it gets and the most spacious in Europe. Another great option are the Veranda Suites with a full-size veranda in the living room and a French balcony in the bedroom. Eco-conscious travelers will be happy to know that these vessels are equipped with solar panels and hybrid engines designed to conserve energy. You will be able to enjoy meals prepared using the ingredients from the ship's own organic herb gardens. "Legends of the Rhine" is a new 2015 itinerary which includes a 8-day journey between Amsterdam and Frankfurt. Guests will have a chance to tour medieval castles, visit Cologne, and sample local beers and wine.

Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel and Spa

Ephelondon Paleon Polemiston Lambi Beach, Kos 853 00, Greece

Hotel & Spa Iadera in Croatia

The restaurants serve Alpine-Adriatic cuisine. Sample delicious Mediterranean cuisine of Dalmatia with Italian influences. There is a spa bistro serving light meals, a cigar lounge and a Dalmatian tavern. Have a romantic dinner at Bracera bar and restaurant where you can enjoy spectacular sunset views.

Brown's Hotel

After a £19-million renovation project, Brown's Hotel retains many of its historic architectural features with a more contemporary feel and state of the art technology in the guest rooms. All of the guest rooms offer two-line phones, voice messaging, broadband Internet connections and televisions with interactive video and hundreds of music CDs on demand; the suites will have flat-screen LCD televisions. Wireless Internet connections are available in all public areas. Each of the twelve guest suites has a charming fireplace in the sitting room and will be individually designed.

Hard Rock San Diego

There are 17 individually designed Rock Star Suites with spa-like bathrooms and spectacular views of the city and bay. When choosing your honeymoon suite, you can choose accommodations with a fire pit, or another suite with a an outdoor hot tub. During the day, rent one of the cabanas by the pool and relax on your honeymoon. Browse more honeymoon suites . (866-751-7625).

Las Ventanas al Paraiso

The property offers guests LocationFree Tvs from Sony. The televisions, available at poolside, are private, compact and obviously portable. They also come with headsets so you won't disturb anyone else while watching your television as you sip your drink in a pool lounge chair. Pool Butlers are available to offer guests other amenities such as cooling mists of frosted Evian spray and cold towels, palette-refreshing sorbets, oversized fluffy towels, the latest magazines and best-selling novels, personal CD players with a selection of CDs, as well as pre-loaded iPods.

Westgate Hotel in San Diego

The suites have large private terraces, separate rest and lounge areas, richly appointed marble bathrooms and over-sized work desks. There are four suite categories to choose from, ranging from Executive Suites to the ultra luxurious Presidential Suite. You will be able to see downtown San Diego, Coronado Bay Bridge, Coronado Island and the Pacific Ocean. There are several dining options at the hotel, including the Westgate Room which was voted the "Best Seafood Restaurant" by San Diego Reader Magazine. The hotel serves a traditional Afternoon Tea which includes delicious tea sandwiches, sweet pastries, scones and seasonal berries. Sounds of a harp can be heard in the background. There is a fitness center and offers spa services.

Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments

A fall getaway in London is filled with boutique shopping, gourmet dining and visits to famous museums. Head to the the Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments for a romantic trip. The hotel is located in the heart of the West End, which is just a short walk from the Theater District. The Hotel has 111 luxury rooms and 12 suites with Hypnos deluxe beds, power showers, plasma televisions, and 24-hour room service. Be sure to let the staff help you with any romantic plans you may have. They can arrange to have flowers and champagne delivered to your room before you arrive, set up a gourmet dinner in your room, and reserve theater tickets. Let the concierge arrange your tickets to the show of your choice. Enjoy dinner at the Bullochs Restaurant, see a show, and return to the hotel for drinks at the Whiskey Bar or the Windsor Lounge.

Library Hotel in NYC

A hotel for couples who like to read together, the Library Hotel is located at Madison Avenue and 41st Street in New York City, near the New York Public Library. The Library Hotel is a unique designed to feel like a private club. Like the name suggests, the hotel has several spaces where guests can pick up a book and read as they would in a library. In the Reading Room, guests can enjoy complimentary refreshments throughout the day. Two other library-style rooms include a rooftop sitting room with a terrace, called the Poetry Garden, and a mahogany-paneled sitting room with a working fireplace, called the Writer's Den. For business travelers, there is a Business Center with computer stations and high-speed Internet access. Events and meetings can be held at the Executive Inspiration Board Room which seats 12 people. 60 guest rooms are located on ten separate floors, each dedicated to one of the ten classifications of knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System: Social Sciences, Language, Math and Science, Technology, The Arts, Literature, History, General Knowledge, Philosophy and Religion. All of the rooms are decorated with art and library books relating to the theme of a particular floor. If you like Astronomy, you can stay in the room featuring Astronomy books, located on the Math and Science floor of the hotel. Guest rooms also include bathrobes, multiple phone lines with voice mail, data ports and complimentary high-speed Internet access. Guests can dine at Madison & Vine, an American bistro. (212-983-4500, 877-793-7323).

Escape to Shape: Explore the World while Getting Fit

Guests enjoy luxury accommodations, organic & local cuisine, one-of-a-kind cultural tours, great spa treatments and an array of activities. You will have access to many fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, circuit training, hiking, kayaking and biking, depending on the location.

Casa de Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Laja Spa, named after Laja River that flows through the mountains filling the San Miguel Lake, offers three colonial style treatment rooms. Spa treatments range from traditional healing therapies to modern techniques. Experience the Temazcal ritual at the spa which consists of indigenous chants and an aromatic mixture of medicinal herbs and copal, a resin used by the Mayan peoples as incense. The ceremony lasts 145 minutes. (+52 (415) 152 7040, 800-701-1561).

Gaya Island Resort

Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, +60-3-2783-1000

Hotel Palafitte

Hôtel Palafitte, Route des Gouttes-d'Or 2, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland, +41-0-32-723-0202

The Sun Siyam, Iru Fushi Maldives

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, P.O. Box 2036 Malé Noonu Atoll, Republic of Maldives, +960-656-0591

Karma Jimbaran

Karma Jimbaran, Jalan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran Bay, Bali 80362, Indonesia, +62-361-708-800

Shore Loteamento, Area SD6, DIST. Big Bar, Municipality of Maraú Bahia, Brazil, CEP: 45520-000, +55-71-3272-1320

Ponta dos Ganchos

Rua Eupídeo Alves do Nascimento, Governador Celso Ramos – SC, Brasil, CEP: 88190-000, +55-48-3953-7000

Porto Kea Suites

Korissia 84002, Kea (Tzia), Cyclades Islands, Greece, +30-22880-22870

• 1. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
• 2. Windham Hill Inn
• 3. LUX Le Morne
• 4. Elounda Bay Palace on Crete
• 5. Soneva Kiri in Thailand
• 6. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, California
• 7. Explore the Rhine Valley with Viking Cruises
• 8. Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel and Spa
• 9. Hotel & Spa Iadera in Croatia
• 10. Brown's Hotel
• 11. Hard Rock San Diego
• 12. Las Ventanas al Paraiso
• 13. Westgate Hotel in San Diego
• 14. Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments
• 15. Library Hotel in NYC
• 16. Escape to Shape: Explore the World while Getting Fit
• 17. Casa de Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
• 18. Gaya Island Resort
• 19. Hotel Palafitte
• 20. The Sun Siyam, Iru Fushi Maldives
• 21. Karma Jimbaran
• 23. Ponta dos Ganchos
• 24. Porto Kea Suites

Last Updated By VI on February 1, 2024 in Best Vacations

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16 Romantic Getaways on the East Coast for Couples

Posted on September 20, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 7, 2024

Looking forward to planning a romantic trip with your better half? In need of some inspiration? We share with you some of the most romantic getaways on the East Coast, perfect for a quick weekend trip or a full-on vacation.

Whether it’s your honeymoon, anniversary, first trip together, or just a regular vacation, discover some of the best destinations on the East Coast for couples . From quaint seaside villages to busy cities and everything in between, you’ll find the perfect vacation spot on the East Coast for a romantic trip to sparkle some romance.

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I might get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Our Top Picks

Zero George Street

📍 Charleston, SC 💵 Rate: $440 and up ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 ✔ Breakfast & dinner ✔ Perfect location ✔ Complimentary bikes

Southernmost Point Guest House

📍 Key West, FL 💵 Rate: $250 and up ⭐ Rating: 9.3/10 ✔ 160 ft from the beach ✔ Breakfast ✔ Pool & hot tub

Maple Hill Farm Inn

📍 Augusta, ME 💵 Rate: $170 and up ⭐ Rating: 9.5/10 ✔ Intimate setting ✔ Breakfast ✔ Hot tub in room

Top Romantic Getaways on the East Coast

Charlottesville, virginia.

By Erin Gifford from Go Hike Virginia

For couples, there’s a lot to love about Charlottesville, Virginia, which sits tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Beautiful wineries, historic landmarks, public art spaces, hiking trails that boast spectacular views, and of course, the University of Virginia (UVA), await visitors in the Central Virginia town of Charlottesville.  

Begin with Monticello, the historic residence of Thomas Jefferson , our third president. Tour the main house, then wander through manicured outdoor spaces, like the vegetable gardens, fish ponds, and flower gardens. An app-based scavenger hunt encourages couples to explore the property and snap photos. From here, sample whites and reds all along the Monticello Wine Trail.

The IX Art Park is a must while in Charlottesville. This walkable outdoor art park boasts vibrant murals and sculptures. An outdoor stage hosts concerts, performances, and music events. The art space is adjacent to Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery , which makes a nice stop for lunch on the outdoor patio while in town.

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 5 Days Shenandoah & West Virginia Camping Adventure with Rock Climbing

Hit the trails as a couple on numerous scenic Charlottesville hikes . From UVA, it’s an easy 30-minute drive to the trailhead for Humpback Rocks , which wows with 360-degree panoramas. This hike is especially spectacular for sunrise and sunset views. Alternatively, a 15-minute drive leads to Ivy Creek Natural Area, which has seven miles of easy hiking trails.

Recommended Hotel – 200 South Street Inn

⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 | 💵 Average rate: $300 a night

Book a room at the romantic 200 South Street Inn . This quaint B&B is located in the city center and offers guests a homemade breakfast each morning and a daily wine and cheese reception. Rooms offer a four-poster bed and a fireplace .

Alternatively, book a vacation rental or, for something more budget-friendly, check out this list of the best inexpensive romantic getaways in Virginia.

For dinner, stop in Roots Natural Kitchen for delicious create-your-own vegetarian bowls. 

Related – 20+ Dreamy Mountain Destinations in the USA

Stowe, Vermont

By Kat from World Wide Honeymoon

When it comes to the best romantic getaways on the East Coast for couples, then Stowe, Vermont easily makes the list. 

Visiting in the fall is idyllic for beautiful crisp hikes and gorgeous autumn foliage.

Some things to do in Stowe in the fall include visiting a sugar shack and tasting the freshest maple syrups , hiking up Stowe Pinnacle for jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the valley below and amazing foliage, stopping by some enchanting covered bridges like the Red Covered Bridge , taking a gondola ride at Stowe Mountain Resort for breathtaking mountain views, and driving through Route 108 through Smugglers Notch for incredible craggy mountains and crisp foliage. 

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 5 Days Best of Stowe and Northern Vermont – Small Group Hiking Tour

You also can’t miss checking out the amazing beer and cider scene at places like The Alchemist Brewery and Stowe Cider. 

For the ultimate romantic date night, be sure to visit the Trapp Family Lodge , or better yet, stay there! The views are stunning and perfect for a sunset. Enjoy a delightful meal and drinks while cozying up on the terrace here. For even more privacy, book a cabin with views over the mountains.

Recommended Hotel – Trapp Family Lodge

⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 | 💵 Rate: $300 a night and up

Book a room at the historic Trapp Family Lodge , a unique mountain resort featuring Austrian-inspired architecture and European-style accommodations.

The Lodge offers stunning mountain views, old-world comforts, and impeccable service, along with activities for every season.

Winter is also a good time to visit with many winter activities you can do and plenty of romantic winter cabins in Vermont to stay at for the perfect winter getaway with your better half.

Stowe truly is a gorgeous destination to visit for couples, and it makes for a perfect addition to a Vermont road trip .

Charleston, South Carolina

By Julien Casanova of Cultures Traveled

Historic homes, romantic churches, and incredible restaurants are just a few of the reasons Charleston, SC is one of the best East Coast destinations for couples. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate and the humidity is relatively low. 

Plus, in late March and early April, the Festival of Houses and Gardens is in full swing. These tours offer an enchanting glimpse into some of Charleston’s finest homes.

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 6 Days Charleston to Savannah: Exploring Gullah Geechee Culture – Small Group

Regardless of what time of year you visit, you should take a stroll south of Broad Street to admire Charleston’s magnificent architecture, lush gardens, and intricate iron gates. You can also buy tickets to tour the Edmondston-Alston House , one of the grandest homes along the Battery.

Recommended Hotel – Zero George

⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 | 💵 Rate: $400 a night and up

To up the romance level, book a room at Zero George , a renovated historic home in the city. Bicycles are included in your stay as well as an evening wine and cheese pairing on the piazza. They’ll even curate your entire romantic getaway if you wish.

You can also book a vacation rental for more privacy and something more budget-friendly.

And no trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to one of the area’s many beaches. Adventurous couples will have fun exploring the old fort on Sullivan’s Island before walking along the beach for stunning views of the city across the harbor.

Others will enjoy a leisurely 45-minute drive under the grand oaks to Kiawah Island’s Beachwalker Park. On the way, stop at Angel Oak Tree, a majestic live oak tree that is estimated to be 500 years old.

Charleston is one of those destinations that captivates its visitors with its historic charm and southern hospitality – a fabulous combination for a couple’s getaway.

Related – Best Destinations in South Carolina for a Romantic Getaway

Hamptons, New York

By Kelly of Travel New York Now

One of the best couples’ destinations on the East Coast is the Hamptons, NY. Located on Long Island, the Hamptons are the perfect place to visit either right before Memorial Day or right after Labor Day. This way, the weather is still nice but you can avoid the intense crowds that inundate this vibrant summer community every year. 

Upon your arrival, enjoy a romantic stay at the Rose Hill Vineyards and Inn . Not only is it one of the best vineyards on Long Island, but it has a romantic bed and breakfast where you and your partner can spend the night inside a gorgeous farmhouse.

Highlights of your stay include a welcome glass of wine, homemade breakfast daily (the Belgian waffles are amazing), and a 10% discount on their exceptional Harvest wine flight. Plus, the vineyard is located in nearby North Fork, which is only about a 30-minute drive from the Hamptons.

Then, once you’re ready to explore the area, head over to the Hamptons and take a romantic stroll along one of the area’s many beaches. Some of the best include Cooper’s Beach in Southampton , and Georgica Beach in East Hampton . Just be sure to grab a parking permit since many of these places require one.

Next, enjoy a little bit of local culture with a trip to The Southampton Arts Center with its incredible outdoor gardens and stunning indoor art exhibits. 

Afterward, unwind with a romantic dinner for two at Topping Rose House . Be sure to grab a seat on their lovely, wraparound veranda before enjoying award-winning, farm-to-table cuisines from acclaimed chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Mystic, Connecticut

By Corinne Vail of Grannies Go Digital

There’s nothing more romantic than walking along the river or the marina at sunset in Mystic. Founded in 1654, the town has always been known for its seafaring culture, and it’s still true today. Book a ride on a boat and become part of the landscape . You can sail, ride on a schooner, or even kayak in the area. There are so many ways to ride the water, and they’re all perfect for an adventurous couple who loves the outdoors. There are plenty of parks, like the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center which has over 10 miles of hiking trails.

Another place not to miss is the Mystic Seaport Museum and Village , which depicts life in the early days of the town. Along with the many historic boats you can climb aboard, you can also watch smiths, coopers, riggers, and woodworkers all plying their traditional trades. It’s a lot of fun and pretty informative as well. 

The town itself is full of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, where you can while away a few hours enjoying the sun, and getting in a little retail therapy. Unmissable is Mystic Knotwork , which has been open since 1957, it boasts the most nautical sailor knot bracelets and tons of other knot products. While you are downtown, don’t miss the rising of the Bascule Bridge , an amazing feat of moving weights and counterweights to let the boats pass underneath. 

Recommended Hotel – Whaler’s Inn

⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 | 💵 Rate: $350 a night and up

The best place to stay in Mystic is without a doubt the Whaler’s Inn , right in the heart of the downtown district where you have plenty of places to stroll and grab a delicious dinner.

There are also plenty of cozy vacation rentals to stay in and around Mystic – it’s perfect for something more intimate or if you’re on a budget.

Savannah, Georgia

By Sam Opp from Find Love & Travel 

Savannah, Georgia is easily one of the most charming and romantic destinations to visit on the East Coast for couples. With a weekend in Savannah , this southern city will offer tons of fun and romantic things to do.

One of the most romantic things to do in Savannah is to visit Forsyth Park . This is likely the most famous and photographed park in all of Savannah, Georgia. Located in the heart of the Historic District, you can enjoy a walk under the giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss or have a picnic on one of the many large green lawns. It’s no wonder so many couples pop the question and do their engagement/wedding photos here!

If you love quaint green spaces, Savannah also has 22 squares sprinkled throughout downtown Savannah. They were planned and designed when Savannah was first founded and offer a lovely place to enjoy the city’s charm. 

Couples will also enjoy exploring down River Street and taking in the famous Savannah Riverfront . With history, dining, river cruises, and shopping, there is something for every couple!

While Savannah is great to visit throughout the year, the most magical time to visit is definitely in the Spring when all the azaleas are blooming. The city is covered in flowers and the Spring temperatures are more comfortable than in Summer. 

Something to know when visiting Savannah is that a car is not necessary during your vacation. The Downtown area isn’t terribly large and can easily be walked or even biked around.

Recommended Hotel – Bellwether House

⭐ Rating: 9.6/10 | 💵 Rate: $300 a night and up

The most romantic bed and breakfast in Savannah, the Bellwether House offers rooms with a spa bath, as well as spa facilities, wellness packages, and yoga classes. Breakfast is included and their restaurant is open for brunch, cocktails, and high tea.

Another one of the best places to stay in Savannah is at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District . This new hotel is located on the Riverfront in the Plant Riverside District. You’ll also find plenty of stunning and comfortable vacation rentals in the downtown area. If you’re on a budget, check out this list of the best affordable getaways in Georgia .

Washington, DC

By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway on the East Coast, look no further than Washington, DC. This location is often overlooked by other places on the East Coast like Boston or NYC, but with even just 2 days in Washington DC , you can truly witness the highlights and have an excellent romantic weekend.

Washington DC is perfect for couples for quite a few reasons. The food is incredible, there are many historic locations worth visiting, and the weather is pretty great year-round. Plus, it’s a pretty affordable place to book a hotel as well.

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 4 Days American Gateway ( New York City, Finger Lakes, Niagara Falls (USA), Philadelphia, Washington DC ) – Small Group

Some of the best things to see as a couple in DC include having breakfast at Urban Roast , exploring Georgetown, catching the sunset over the Tidal Basin , and of course, perusing the National Mall and seeing as many things as possible. For adventurous couples, rent a boat to go out on the Tidal Basin . This is a great way to get away from the busyness of the city and relax, just the two of you.

Recommended Hotel – Riggs Washington DC

⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 | 💵 Rate: $300 a night and up

Book a stay at the famous Riggs Washington DC , one of the best hotel downtown. You’ll be within walking distance of many sights and the subway. Rooms are spacious and luxurious and feature views of the city.

For another great hotel downtown that won’t break the bank, book a night at Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square.

The best time to visit DC is in the spring. It can get pretty hot there in the summer, especially with all the people who are on summer break and decide to visit.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

By Denise from Chef Denise

Looking for the best romantic getaways on the East Coast for couples? Head to Outer Banks, North Carolina to explore over 100 miles of shoreline. The barrier islands that comprise OBX create a harbor on the west coast and have the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Both options offer dreamy vistas, but wherever you choose to stay, a view of the water is highly recommended. 

Start your day on the Atlantic side watching the sunrise . The long white sandy beaches are perfect for romantic walks and swimming in the waves . Then perhaps rent paddleboards to tulle around the calm waters of the harbor which is just a few minutes across the island. The more adventurous couple may want to take a kite surfing lesson to see the coast from the air and then watch the sunset. 

Capture more instagrammable moments at one of five historic lighthouses. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton is the most famous. And best of all, you can stop at Orange Blossom Cafe for the best breakfast in OBX . Don’t leave without trying an Apple Ugly!

Recommended Hotel – Cape Hatteras Motel

⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 | 💵 Rate: $250 a night and up

Book an ocean-front room at the Cape Hatteras Motel for the perfect romantic beach getaway! Take a dip in the hot tub, enjoy the beach, or head into town, just a short walk away, for restaurants and entertainment.

Buxton is located on the southern end of the Outer Banks with ample restaurants, shops, and places to stay like the Cape Hatteras Motel and vacation rentals.

Charming towns dot the islands each with its own character. To the north, Rodanthe , famed for the movie Nights in Rodanthe , is the place for couples to get away from it all. Even more north still, Kitty Hawk provides a more lively atmosphere and a bit of history with a Wright brothers mural and monument.

Summer, which also coincides with hurricane season (June-November), is the most popular time to visit this gorgeous area. If the hurricanes sound too scary, consider visiting March through May when it will be a little cooler and less populated.

New York City, New York

By Lindsay from The Purposely Lost

New York City is an excellent destination on the East Coast for couples. There’s no better place than the City That Never Sleeps to spend a romantic getaway with your partner.

To enjoy the view of New York City from above, climb to the top of the Empire State Building , which has starred in classic romance films such as Sleepless in Seattle and An Affair to Remember. Then, spend the evening on a romantic Hudson River boat tour , where you’ll get to see the city glimmering at night.

Dinner and a Broadway performance is the most traditional romantic evening in New York City. One of the top tips for attending a Broadway show is to check out the eateries in Hell’s Kitchen, a New York City area that stretches from 34th Street to 59th Street, from 8th Avenue to the Hudson River.

There are so many fantastic restaurants in this neighborhood, and it’s only a short walk to the Theatre District, where all of New York City’s Broadway theaters are located.

If the weather is warm, grab takeout and have a picnic on one of Central Park’s numerous benches.

You can even spend the day strolling through Greenwich Village , dropping in at shops and small businesses before eating dinner on the patio of a café you walk by.

And if your hotel has a rooftop deck, like the Arlo NoMad , finish your evening with a drink and a gorgeous view.

Boston, Massachusetts

By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA 

Visiting Boston is ideal if you and your partner like food, history, and sport!

Couples who enjoy trying new food and drink together will want to head to Faneuil Hall Marketplace a t Quincy Market, fueling up for the next activity. 

Since Boston is one of the US’s oldest cities, most visitors walk the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, visiting 16 attractions to learn about the American Revolution.

Next, take a breather and sip a Sam Adams at Cheers , the pub used in the 80’s TV show, or head to Boston’s Common (park) to people-watch.

Pics, or it didn’t happen!  Couples should head to Beacon Hill to capture the perfect Instagram pic at one of Boston’s prettiest streets,  Acorn Street . This neighborhood is also where the  self-guided Black Heritage Trail of Boston  takes place.

If visiting during baseball season, sports fans will want to buy tickets for a Red Sox game or book a Fenway Park tour.

Boston is a city you can visit all year round unless you don’t like the cold, then you will want to avoid the winter months. 

For a modern hotel with harbor views, consider The Envoy. It also has a rooftop bar and cozy igloos in winter, a perfect  thing to do at night in Boston . Alternatively, you can book a vacation rental.

Williamsburg, Virginia

By Cortney of Tin Can Living

Williamsburg is a quaint Virginia town that offers the perfect backdrop for couples to enjoy time together. Williamsburg’s historic charm will have you feeling like you’re in Europe, without any of the jet lag. It offers a diverse range of restaurants and activities that will suit any couple looking to spend quality time with their partner.

I recommend Williamsburg for any couple that wants to get away from it all. This town has a lot of history and also offers great shopping, dining, and entertainment options. You can take a stroll down the historic streets, walk through the amazing gardens and sip wine at the many wineries that this endearing city has to offer.

Saude Creek Vineyards is a must-visit for those who desire a beautiful landscape and a delectable wine-tasting experience .

For a romantic dining experience, check out Williamsburg’s Food For Thought. This restaurant is known by locals to be one of the best in Williamsburg. Food For Thought is located near Colonial Williamsburg. It offers a friendly and charming atmosphere for any couple looking to spend time together over mouthwatering meals. Try the portabella stack.

For a fantastic place to spend the night, check out Williamsburg Inn . Williamsburg Inn is a lovely hotel that offers the perfect place to stay for any couple looking for a romantic getaway. They have many amenities including a full spa, pool, and in-house restaurant with fine dining. You’ll also find plenty of charming vacation rentals around town.

If you’re looking for a couples getaway, consider taking a trip to explore all that Williamsburg has to offer while holding hands with your partner. You won’t be disappointed.

Annapolis, Maryland

By Erin Gifford from Maryland Hikes

Annapolis, Maryland is a wonderful destination for couples on the East Coast thanks to historic brick-lined streets, relaxing outdoor spaces, and, of course, yachts and sailboats aplenty. Annapolis may be the state capital, but it’s also widely considered to be America’s Sailing Capital.

In fair-weather months, ogle the boats tethered at marinas and docks across town . On evenings and weekends, amble along the Annapolis City Dock . Known as “Ego Alley,” prepare to be awed by the gorgeous and wildly expensive boats that buoyantly sail the waterway on their way in and out of the Chesapeake Bay.

Stroll Main Street to pop in and out of boutiques, art galleries, hat shops, and wine stores . Settle in for lunch or dinner at True Food Kitchen , a self-described eco-chic restaurant boasting delicious fare, like charred cauliflower and teriyaki quinoa bowls. For dessert, order up scoops at the Annapolis Ice Cream Company , including non-dairy flavors like Mint Chip and Matcha. 

Make the short drive to Sandy Point State Park to walk the easy trails and savor sweeping views of the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Scenic water views abound from the park’s mile-long man-made sandy beach. Settle in for the evening at the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel , which wows with gorgeous views across Spa Creek, or book a vacation rental.

Bar Harbor, Maine

By James Ian from Parks Collecting

Bar Harbor and nearby Acadia National Park are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway on the East Coast. The area has cute villages that are perfect for romantic walks, and dozens of tiny islands and peninsulas that are ideal for relaxing and adventurous activities to enjoy together. 

If you like to relax, take a sailing boat trip at sunset with champagne and enjoy the stunning views all around you.  Catch a local ferry out to the nearby Cranberry Islands and stroll around a quintessential New England village. Have lunch on the lawn beside the lake at Jordan Pond House (their salads are vegan and delicious). You can even hang out on the beach at the ocean Sand Beach (which is chilly) or the warmer Echo Lake beach.

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 5 Days Acadia Hiking and Kayaking – Small Group

If you’d like to do something more active together, there are dozens of hiking trails in Acadia , most ending at stunning overlooks with views of the surrounding islands. Highlights include the Beehive and Precipice Trails . The national park is laced with historic carriage trails that you can walk or cycle along. You can rent bikes in Bar Harbor. You can also take a kayak tour (rent a tandem kayak, of course), and paddle around the rocky shoreline.

The best time to visit is summer. This is peak season when the weather is best. The entire area is also stunning – and incredibly romantic – in the fall. 

Recommended Hotel – Thornhedge Inn

Book a room at the romantic Thornhedge Inn for the perfect getaway! The historic inn is centrally located in downtown Bar Harbor, within walking distance from shops, cafes, and restaurants. A full breakfast and afternoon refreshments are provided daily.

Another top hotel pick is the Grand Hotel, a gorgeous boutique hotel located right on Main Street. It’s a replica of the historic Rodick House and couldn’t be more romantic. You’ll also find plenty of secluded cabins in the woods and charming ocean-front cottages.

Atlanta, Georgia

By James Ian from Travel Collecting

Atlanta has loads of fun things to do for couples. The center of the action is Centennial Olympic Park , a large green space with trees for shade and paths for romantic strolls. Most of the city’s main attractions are found nearby.

Atlanta is the home of Coca-Cola, and the World of Coca-Cola showcases their products over time and around the world. Watch a movie with moving seats for a whole-body experience, see souvenirs from every stage of Coke’s history, and sample over 200 sodas from dozens of countries. 

For something completely different, head to CNN Studios . Take a tour of a TV studio and play co-anchors in a dummy news reading! If you’re both interested in American history, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights provides fascinating insights into the civil rights movement in the US.

For more romantic activities, try canoeing together on the Chattanooga River, cycling the Atlanta Beltline, or taking a wine-tasting tour at a nearby vineyard. And, of course, don’t miss taking a ride together on the gigantic Ferris wheel SkyView Atlanta . It’s right next to Centennial Olympic Park and has sensational views from the top.

Atlanta is also a center for southern soul food and there are several vegan restaurants including Soul Vegetarian for a romantic dinner.

A great place to stay is the Ritz Carlton , which is conveniently located in downtown Atlanta near most of the action and attractions. You’ll also find plenty of vacation rentals for added convenience, access to a kitchen, and more privacy.

St. Augustine, Florida

By Disha from Disha Discovers

One of the best romantic getaways on the East Coast for couples is St. Augustine, Florida. With unique and romantic historical attractions and a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, the city is perfect for couples looking to get away from it all.

Claimed to be the oldest city in the USA, St. Augustine is filled with small-town charm, gorgeous beaches, historical landmarks, diverse dining, and more. Couples can easily enjoy their trip in this town while wandering around old neighborhoods and strolling through the cobblestone streets and hidden alleyways.

There are plenty of sights to see in this old town, starting with the Castillo de San Marcos . This 16th-century fort was built by the Spanish and is located along Matanzas Bay.

St. Augustine also offers several museums and galleries to peruse, such as the infamous Lightner Museum and the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.

Couples who love ghost stories will enjoy touring haunted spots such as the Old Jail and Scarlett O’Hara’s.

Whether you want to plan an adventure or just relax and enjoy each other’s company, St. Augustine has plenty of romantic activities. Couples can explore quaint shops or dine at fine-dining establishments, go on a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, and watch the sunrise or sunset at one of the beaches.

Other adventurous and romantic activities include kayaking around Anastasia State Park, paddleboarding through the salt marshes or coast along the beautiful beaches of Vilano Beach, and biking around the coast.

The spring months (March-May) are the best time to visit St. Augustine. A great place to stay is the DoubleTree by Hilton in the Historic District or you can book a vacation rental.

Before leaving St. Augustine, be sure to try an ice pop at Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops . Their flavors are delicious and they’re all-natural.

Related – Romantic Getaways in Florida for Couples on a Budget

Key West, Florida

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Key West is located to the south of Miami and is part of the Florida archipelago. The southernmost point of Florida, Key West, is stunning and is perfect for couples.

It takes about four hours to get to Key West from Miami and on the way, there are many other islands you can take a pit stop at or even spend a few days exploring.

What makes it so good is the range of activities one can indulge in when visiting. There are numerous water-based things to do here like diving to see shipwrecks or snorkeling to see the marine life present here. You can also swim with dolphins while you’re here and the best bit is that they aren’t in captivity!

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE – 5 Days South Florida Highlights Miami to Key West – Small Group

In addition to this, there are also antique shops, museums, and galleries if you’re an art buff. For example, you will find Ernest Hemingway’s home here which is now a museum, and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum to name a few.

The Gates Hotel Key West is an excellent hotel to spend your time in while you’re visiting as it is budget-friendly and offers a range of amenities. You’ll also find plenty of great vacation rentals near the beach.

Restaurants like Off the Hook Grill and the Conch Shack are worth checking out!

While you’re here if you’d instead not do anything and relax the stunning beaches here will undoubtedly help you do that!

More USA and couple travel guides:

• Most romantic destinations in Europe
• 30 best couple vacations and romantic getaways in the US
• Best places to visit in the USA during Christmas
• Best US National Parks to visit in summer
• Best Spring Break Destinations for Families
• 25 Best Scenic Road Trips in the USA for Your Bucket List
• Top 20 Winter Vacation Spots and Destinations in the US

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25 Best Vacation Spots for Couples

Planning a romantic getaway? Here are the best couples' vacation spots around the world to visit with your special someone.

Claudia Fisher is a digital editorial director on the Commerce News & Deals team at Dotdash Meredith. She's been writing, editing, and strategizing for women's lifestyle publications in NYC for nearly a decade, with a special interest in beauty and style.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

One of the best parts of being in a relationship is having a built-in travel buddy — and enjoying uninterrupted one-on-one time as you visit new places together. A trip with your significant other, whether domestic or international, almost always guarantees you'll learn something new about one another — perhaps your girlfriend gets a rush from cliff diving, or your boyfriend can make friends with anyone despite only being able to say one phrase in the local language.

When you're deciding where you want to go, consider which components of a romantic getaway matter most to you. Are you up for sightseeing and doing outdoorsy activities together or do you lean more toward enjoying quiet moments in intimate settings with a view?

For instance, couples looking for a chance to fully unwind might opt for a beach vacation or spa weekend in a beautiful destination, while those searching for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure may want to book an African safari. Foodie couples might want to eat their way through Paris's fine restaurants, while more active travelers may prefer to hit the slopes or go snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef.

Whatever your travel style, here are 25 of the best vacation spots for couples.

Bali, Indonesia

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

If your version of romance is hiking through monkey forests and rolling rice paddies — or dancing to DJ sets and light shows until the wee hours of the morning — head to Bali, a beautiful Indonesian isle known for its vibrant nightlife scene. Stroll hand-in-hand on white-sanded shores in the southern part of the island or by the volcanic black sand beaches of its northern and eastern coasts. In addition to historic temples and shrines, Bali is also home to heaps of high-end resorts, yoga classes, spas, and Australian-influenced cafes worth checking out during your trip.

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber / Travel + Leisure

Visiting Santorini is like traveling to a cloud-like oasis that envelops you in an ethereal fantasy. In other words, there's no surprise as to why it's a popular choice among newlyweds looking for a picture-perfect honeymoon destination . The romance of the island pretty much sells itself; wandering the hilly, weathered streets, you'll be surrounded by bright white walls and blue roofs, while in the evenings, you'll have front-row seats to incredible sunsets. Once the sun is down, the island really lights up, with its houses, churches, and restaurants glowing like stars.

Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Ashour Rehana / Getty Images

Aside from traveling to Tanzania to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, many make the trip to see the country's incredible wildlife conservation sites and national parks. Going on a safari allows you and your significant other to share some unique firsts: the first time you see a lion, the first time you drive across the African plains, dotted with baobab trees, or the first time you meet someone from the local Indigenous community, to name a few.

You'll want to visit Ngorongoro Crater , the world's largest inactive and intact volcanic caldera. Its bowl-like shape makes a natural border for the animals, boosting the chances safari goers will be able to spot all of the Big Five — lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo — during a tour. Serengeti National Park is another popular safari destination because of the area's mass seasonal migrations of wildebeest and zebra, its large lion population, and the sheer diversity of habitats and animals you'll find here.

Tulum, Mexico

NurPhoto / Getty Images

Two core pillars of many romantic vacations are relaxing in intimate settings and enjoying exciting experiences, and Tulum has plenty of chances for you to do both. Rotate between lounging out on tropical beaches, snorkeling at nearby Xel-Ha Park , swimming in a natural sinkhole (or cenote), and touring ancient Mayan ruins, many of which are still intact. After a perfect day in Tulum , packed with leisure, adventure, or both, the cherry on top will be grabbing a drink at Gitano and relishing in its funky jungle atmosphere.

Whistler, Canada

A great way to bond as a couple is by getting active, and skiing on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is great for both veteran and beginner skiers alike. Take on the mountains, offering numerous trails of varying intensity, enjoy an overhead view of the snow-capped trees from sprawling gondolas, break for lunch at the mid-mountain lodge, and top off your day with an après ski special at one of the slope-side bars. If one day of skiing leaves you with wobbly legs and your fill of downhill action, there's a lot more going on at the base of the peaks. Whistler Village is a lively, pedestrian-only hub of bars, shops, and restaurants. The little winter wonderland is as charming as the inside of a snow globe, and what's better for a romantic getaway than that?

Cappadocia, Turkey

UIG / Getty Images

For a fairytale vacation, there's nothing more fitting than a landscape dotted with "fairy chimneys," the tall, thin cones topping the many rock sites of Cappadocia. Cave churches, underground cities, and homes carved into the rocks work to create a whimsical aura usually reserved for the fictional realm. Floating high above the rocky terrain in a brightly-designed hot air balloon , you'll feel like characters wandering the pages of a Dr. Seuss book (or like astronauts discovering a civilization on the moon). Either way, the otherworldly experience will have you recapturing your sense of childlike wonder and awe together.

Paris, France

Most clichés became clichés for a reason, and so is the case with Paris' romantic reputation. Looking at pictures of couples in the City of Light, you can practically see the cartoon hearts in their eyes as they embrace in front of the Eiffel Tower. Paris and romance go together like Valentine's Day and chocolate, anniversary dinners and candlelit bistros, marriage proposals and world-famous landmarks… all of which Paris is not-so-coincidentally known for having.

Hakone, Japan

Zhang Yun / Getty Images

While not as romanticized for cherry-blossomed strolls as its neighbor, Kyoto, Hakone is a worthy day trip from Tokyo, offering an intimate escape from city travel in the most relaxing way possible: hot springs resorts . Aside from relaxing in onsen (hot springs) at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), you can take advantage of the natural sites, like Lake Ashi and the volcano Mount Fuji , or tour the fire-engine red Hakone Shrine and open-air sculpture museum . The many transportation options , ranging from boats and cable cars to rolling train routes through the mountains, also seem like mini adventures, making yours all the more memorable.

Northern Norway

AFP / Getty Images

If you've ever considered stargazing a romantic experience, northern Norway really ups the ante with its naturally occuring cosmic activity. The region covers about one-third of the country and is considered one of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway . They usually make an appearance from autumn to mid-April, while from late April to mid-August, the sun is still visible late at night thanks to a natural phenomenon known as the " midnight sun ."

Feeling adventurous? Venture even farther north to Svalbard, the northernmost inhabited region of Europe, to experience 24-hour daylight between April and August. On the opposite end of the light spectrum, Svalbard's January and February months have "polar nights," when night lasts for around 24 hours, making the aurora borealis particularly visible.

If you do decide to take this kind of trip together, be warned: Looking up at the stars in your own backyard might not be quite as impressive anymore.

Porto, Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle / Travel + Leisure

Porto is a waterfront merchant city that seemingly transports visitors to an earlier time with its cobblestoned streets, baroque churches, and prevalence of port factories and family-owned businesses. Nearby in the Duoro Valley , you can visit vineyards where wine has been produced for more than 2,000 years, sample it, and participate in harvesting practices such as stomping on the grapes. It's the perfect part of Portugal to spend a day or two , if not longer. In a city infused with the culture of wine making and drinking, you and your significant other can get tipsy on the energy alone.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Known for its natural and architectural beauty, Italy's Amalfi Coast is a prime choice for a romantic Mediterranean getaway. Travelers can bask in the natural scenery, hike through dreamy seaside villages with picturesque views, and visit famous sites such as the Grotta dello Smeraldo (the " Emerald Grotto "), as well as medieval churches, gardens, and museums. When you need some quiet time for just the two of you, there are a number of secluded hotels offering oceanfront views and luxurious amenities.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Filippo Bacci / Getty Images

In Argentina's bustling capital, you and your significant other will never run out of activities to try, with lots of live entertainment and a multitude of restaurants and bars. For a day-to-night date, La Boca is a vibrant neighborhood known for Tango dancing and El Caminito, a pedestrian walkway lined with houses and shops painted in bright primary colors — strolling through this vibrant neighborhood is one of our favorite things to do in Buenos Aires .

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, these 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia, will have you sailing into uncharted relationship territory with unbelievable sites to discover together. Whitehaven Beach is one of the most popular white-sand beaches in the country — despite it being a tourist hotspot, you've got 4.3 miles to play with, making it easy to stretch out and find your own space.

In addition to enjoying blissful beach days, you can embark on some truly unforgettable and romantic excursions while visiting the islands, such as flying over Heart Reef in a helicopter, staying aboard a boat for a few days, or snorkeling at the legendary Great Barrier Reef.

South Caicos, Turks and Caicos

Design Pics / Helene Cyr / Getty Images

While Turks and Caicos is certainly not a new destination for romantic vacations, most visitors flock to Providenciales, the first major stopping point on the tropical archipelago.

Far less popular (and far more secluded) are the pristine beaches of South Caicos , just a short, scenic connecting flight away. If you're looking for something truly special — perhaps to celebrate an anniversary or another special occasion — Sailrock Resort is a luxury property nestled within natural brush along white-sand shores that lead into crystal-clear water. You'll experience the type of picturesque serenity you thought was only accessible to movie stars, yet there the two of you will be, sipping colorful cocktails together on a hammock at the beach's edge, with nothing but the open, beautiful horizon spanning ahead of you.

No matter how active you decide to be, Barbados is one of the best vacation spots for couples. The island's west coast is home to several high-end resorts with various offerings to make your Caribbean escape extra memorable. Arrange some classic island excursions, such as snorkeling, private boat trips with companies such as Seaduced , or visits to local attractions like the spectacular Hunte's Gardens and Rihanna's childhood home.

For a dose of local cuisine and culture, spend an upbeat Friday night at Oistins fish fry or sample some of the island's best rums on a tour of the Mount Gay rum distillery . You could also kick back and make relaxation your number-one priority by simply enjoying the beautiful beaches and temperate water. For a dinner you won't soon forget, head to The Cliff , which overlooks the water in a sultry, fire-adorned setting.

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

For the ultimate romantic vacation, charter a boat and sail along the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia. If you start your journey in Dubrovnik and end up in Split, you'll get a comprehensive look at the country, from nautical exploration to sightseeing in both small seaport towns and big cities. With a stopover in a new place every night, the transit is part of the fun, rather than merely a means to get from point A to point B.

Travelers mainly book Turkish gulets (or small yachts) with separate quarters for the crew. Companies like Gulet Yacht Adriatic Holiday offer packages that include the services of a captain, chef, and one or two crew members to help curate not just your route, but everything else you do while you're on the water or shore. While the busy season is typically from June through early September, trips also set out in October and make a great option if you want a bit more quiet and privacy on the Adriatic Sea.

Cotswolds, England

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Step into a romantic period piece on a vacation in the Cotswolds , located in the picturesque English countryside. The rolling hills and fields are dotted with the most quaint towns you'll ever find — popular stops include Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Castle Combe. Grab a pint in a storied pub or tea in a cute cafe after spending the day exploring town after adorable town.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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What could be more romantic than snuggling up by the fire after a day out in the snow? In Jackson Hole , you can enjoy winter sports in a stunning setting just a short distance from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks . Plus, you can book a stay at a luxurious property like Amangani or the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole for a truly romantic trip — or the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort if you're both skiing or snowboarding enthusiasts.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is often a favorite city among Travel + Leisure readers , and once you visit, it's easy to see why. Dine at delicious restaurants, take a sunset cruise in the harbor (where you may even spot a dolphin or two), and visit one of the nearby beaches. For romantic accommodations, we recommend staying outside the city on Kiawah Island, a little under an hour's drive away, where you'll find The Sanctuary , a beachfront luxury hotel.

Tucson, Scottsdale, and Sedona, Arizona

Looking for a mindful way to connect with your partner? Consider booking a trip to a wellness resort with a spa and classes to deepen your relationship. Miraval Arizona , located in Tucson, has an all-inclusive experience that throws in fitness classes, health and wellness lectures, and spa treatments, among other amenities. The Civana Wellness Resort & Spa near Scottsdale offers a serene escape amid the Sonoran Desert, while Sedona, with its red rocks and mysterious vortexes, is another popular destination among wellness travelers.

Kauai, Hawaii

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Find paradise together on a trip to Kauai , Hawaii's Garden Isle. You'll find the best of both worlds, with a beautiful mix of lush jungle landscapes and beautiful beaches. Spend your days alternating between lounging or strolling hand-and-hand along the shores and exploring its natural wonders by foot, boat, or helicopter. Popular romantic resort options include Timbers Kauai in Lihue and Koʻa Kea Hotel & Resort in Poipu Beach.

Napa Valley, California

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A romantic jaunt to California's wine country might be the perfect getaway for couples looking for delicious vino, beautiful views, and world-class dining. Spend a few days touring vineyards together and tasting different varietals while gazing out at the rolling, vine-covered hills. You can also opt for a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for more scenic views. Retire to one of the many beautiful luxury resorts in the area, such as the Auberge du Soleil , Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley , or Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection .

Sea Island, Georgia

This Georgia barrier island resort offers secluded, five-star luxury across several styles of accommodations, including The Cloister, located in the heart of the resort, as well as private cottages. In addition to the beach, guests can golf, lounge by the pools, enjoy spa treatments, and participate in other activities like tennis and horseback riding.

New York City

For some couples, taking on a major metropolis is just as romantic as spending a week by the beach. And when it comes to big city destinations in the United States, it's hard to beat New York City . Every night is date night on vacation, so go to dinner and take in a Broadway show, enjoy extended evening hours at some of the world's best museums, visit acclaimed restaurants and cocktail bars, and stroll through Central Park to soak in the sights and sounds of the Big Apple.

Palm Springs, California

Escape to the desert with a trip to Palm Springs, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lined with palm trees. Plan your visit in the spring, fall, or winter to avoid the intense summer heat, and admire mid-century modern architecture as you hit the links or head to the spa. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is a luxe pick for a pool with a view, while the Parker Palm Springs is another trendy choice.

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego visit ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island hopping in the Caribbean.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right, a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multigenerational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 17-night Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 17 nights. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, or vice versa and are offered on multiple ships, including Koningsdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Longer sailings also call on several Caribbean islands.

Who should go : Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,650 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the World Stage for evening production shows. The larger Eurodam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as popular music venues B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuted in November 2023 and will transit the Panama Canal on several occasions in the next few years. The 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Plan even further ahead for Grandeur's 22-night Miami-to-Los Angeles transit (Jan. 3-25, 2026) to enjoy additional Caribbean ports of call. From Jan. 25 to Feb. 9, 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Miami with an itinerary similar to the 2024 and early 2025 cruises.

Who should go : This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,099 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's still time to book the Dec. 2, 2024, cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through April 2025. All sailings are aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao, replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go : Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart baby boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht or small ship, check out Windstar Cruises' seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary. Bookable on more than a dozen dates from November 2024 through March 2026, the itinerary is offered aboard 148-passenger Wind Star or Wind Spirit (in 2024 and 2025) and 312-passenger Star Pride (in 2026). The ship will travel from Colon, Panama, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa), transiting the canal. Passengers can visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go : Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambience, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations on the sailing yachts are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows but no balconies. Wind Star and Wind Spirit are cozy and social four-deck ships, each featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants. Star Pride is the better option for those who prefer a more spacious suitelike cabin with a balcony and a larger bathroom.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles cruise

Silversea Cruises ' 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles transit aboard 596-passenger Silver Moon offers a luxurious and leisurely way to experience the Panama Canal along with top ports in four countries and 10 sea days. The itinerary includes Cartagena, Colombia (where the ship overnights); Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The sailing takes place from April 1 to 19, 2025.

Silver Moon is one of four Silversea ships to feature the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which combines regionally inspired dining in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, cooking classes and demonstrations in S.A.L.T. Lab with culinary-inspired shore excursions.

Who should go : Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. An almost three-week itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-night Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's eight-night Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. The ships call in Limon, Costa Rica, and George Town, Grand Cayman. Itineraries are available on several dates in 2024 and 2025, and cruise fares begin at under $900 per person.

With multiple pools (including the adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, the Camp Ocean kids club and a wide array of restaurants, these ships offer enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go : Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambience and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: The best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits 12 countries (St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Curacao, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers 15 relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise. The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles, departing in November 2025.

You'll enjoy beach time as you island hop in the Caribbean, while calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go : Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this monthlong Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries, its popular 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale on more than 20 dates in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

What's more, you can choose between two ships: the 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on several Caribbean islands, including Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go : Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (versus waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options, such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise (Feb. 27-March 11, 2026) does a full canal transit as it sails from Miami to Lima, Peru. The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will visit historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Panama City; Manta, Ecuador; and Trujillo and Lima in Peru.

Who should go : Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Jade is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2022 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a pub-style bar and grill, an Asian restaurant and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus six specialty dining venues (including a steakhouse and venues showcasing French, Italian and Japanese cuisines) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles cruise

Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-passenger Vista — which debuted in May 2023 as the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back, 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Jan. 8-24, 2025) and Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 24-Feb. 9, 2025) itineraries. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go : Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant cabin decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options. (Two new and noteworthy venues on Vista include Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner.) A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco cruise

Cunard's brand-new 2,996-passenger ship Queen Anne, which debuts in May 2023, will make both its first transatlantic crossing and its first Panama Canal transit on this historic 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco sailing (Jan. 9-Feb. 4, 2025). The ship will first cross the Atlantic and then overnight in New York before calling on Aruba, transiting the canal and visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It will conclude with an overnight in San Francisco.

The winter transatlantic crossing might not be right for everyone, but the second half of this voyage explores warm-weather destinations with plenty of relaxing sea days for sunning, reading, taking dance lessons and enjoying expert lectures.

Who should go : British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. This particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit several cruise regions in one sailing.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024-June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

If this longer voyage is sold out, consider the 138-day Viking World Cruise (departing Dec. 19, 2025), also on Viking Sky. This sailing, which travels from Fort Lauderdale to London (Greenwich), visits 28 countries and transits the Panama Canal on the eighth day.

Who should go : With cruise fares that start at $79,995 and $59,995 per person, respectively, these extended adventures at sea require a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambience (there's no casino, and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
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Prince Harry receives emotional gift as Meghan Markle gives update on Archie and Lilibet on day one of Nigeria trip - best photos

The couple began their three-day trip to nigeria on friday.

Prince Harry received an emotional gift on Friday May 9 as he made a solo trip during the visit to Nigeria with wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

As he visited the Governor of Kaduna state, Senator Uba Sani, Harry was welcomed by dancers and a red carpet that led to the seats at the top of the steps of the governor’s office and assembly. Senator Sani praised Harry as a “symbol of courage and “praised his service to his country.” He added: "Please give our regards to the Duchess of Sussex, Princess Meghan."

Before he left, Harry was given two paintings — one of him and his late mother Princess Diana,  and another of him and wife Meghan. 

Prince Harry meets wounded soldiers

Harry later visited Reference Hospital Kaduna which is Nigeria’s version of America's Walter Reed hospital — the first place service members are brought post-injury. Harry toured six wards, meeting several young men recuperating from their injuries; many had been shot, ambushed by Boko Haram or lost limbs due to blasts. 

“You are going to get better, get back on your feet,” he told the first ward, meeting Corp Yusef, 23, who had been shot through the knee.

“Are you going to try for the Invictus Games team? Are you preparing for that? Don’t disappoint us," Harry joked before adding: “We will see you there.”

Harry later told Corporal Iziogo Onyema, 31, who had had his right arm reset after a gunshot: "You do get better, I promise."

Meghan shares rare details of Archie and Lilibet

Earlier in the day Meghan shared sweet updates about Prince Archie  and Princess Lilibet ,  as she and Prince Harry kicked off their three-day tour of Nigeria with a visit to a local school, supported by their Archewell Foundation. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were all smiles as they received a warm welcome at Lightway Academy in Abuja, with the couple taking time to chat with students and receiving beaded necklaces as gifts.

As they stopped at a kindergarten class, where children aged two to five danced and sung songs for them, Harry asked them: "Is singing and dancing your favourite class?"

"That’s Lili's favorite class,"  Meghan said of their two-year-old daughter. "Maybe it's all the jumping around."

Prince Archie enjoys 'construction'

The Sussexes were then taken to a STEM class where a group of youngsters showed the robot cars they’d created, with one proudly saying his was called M-Bot. 

As Harry asked the class whether they enjoyed electronics,  Meghan revealed that their son Archie liked construction. 

During their time at the school, Harry and Meghan helped to launch an inaugural mental health summit run by local non-profit, GEANCO, which the couple's Archewell Foundation is linked with. 

Prince Harry praises mental health awareness

The Duke spoke of the importance of opening up about your mental health, telling the youngsters: "The more you talk about it, the more you can kick stigma away, fall far away into long grass, and then everybody will have the opportunity to be able to share how they're feeling, how they're coping, and then you can help other people. 

"So will you promise to us that after today, no more being scared, no more being unsure of mental health. If you are unsure, then ask. Ask your teachers. Ask your friends. Be there for one another. If you see your friend in your class not smiling, what are you gonna do? You gonna check in with them? Are you gonna ask him if they're okay? Because it's okay not to be okay."

Meghan then told the class: "We all have our story. And there's no shame in any single one of your stories. Even on the hardest days or darkest days, everything is a pillar of your strength by each of you being there.  Your teachers see that in you. And we see that in you."

Lili calls Meghan 'mama'

She added of her daughter:  "And interestingly, so our daughter, Lili, she's much, much tinier than you guys. She's about to turn three. And a few weeks ago she looked at me and she would just see the reflection in my eyes. And she said 'Mama, I see me in you'. Oh, now she was talking really, literally. But I hung onto those words in a very different way. And I thought, yes, I do see me and you, and you see me and you, but as I look around this room, I see myself in all of you as well."

For her first engagement of the trip, Meghan looked chic in a tonal tiered dress, accessorising with metallic jewellery and her brunette locks pulled back in a braided ponytail. Meanwhile Harry sported a matching stone-coloured shirt and linen trousers. 

The couple have not been joined by their children, Prince Archie, who turned five on Monday, and Princess Lilibet, who turns three in June. Find out why on the latest episode of HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast...

LISTEN: Why Archie and Lilibet have not joined Harry and Meghan in Nigeria

This Sunday marks Mother's Day in the US, with Meghan likely to miss out on the occasion with her children, given the length of their Nigeria visit. 

The three-day trip marks Harry and Meghan's first official visit to Nigeria. It comes after the Duke met Nigeria’s chief of defence staff in Germany last September at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf.

Formal welcome

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were officially welcomed to Nigeria by Chief of Defense Staff Christopher Musa during a meeting at the Defence Headquarters in the heart of Abuja.

Harry heaped praise on the country for adopting sport as part of rehabilitation, saying: "You’re not the first country to notice that it not only transforms lives but saves lives. I'm eternally grateful to you all of you for joining the Invictus movement for Nigeria and for every single soul who’s been injured protecting the freedoms of Nigeria."

Speaking about the Nigerian Invictus Games squad, the Duke added: "The team that turned up in Düsseldorf was small but mighty. They danced their way into the stage. They won medals and danced off the stage. They were the life and soul of those games. Our goal now is to help you grow that team and provide as much opportunity and resource here in Nigeria and for the games that are coming at the beginning of next year. 

"And I know there’s been an expression of interest for Nigeria to perhaps host the games in 2029."

Before departing, Harry and Meghan signed the visitors book, with the Duke remarking on his wife's "beautiful handwriting". 

The Duchess, who had changed into a all-white pantsuit, chatted with some of the army wives at the Defence Headquarters.  Adenike Keennam, whose husband is in the airforce, said: "I told [Meghan] 'Welcome home'. She gave me a big smile." 

She added of the couple: "I think it's significant they’re here in many ways. With people like them who you see on TV or in the papers, to see them in person goes a long way. They are people of peace."

Reunited in London

Harry and Meghan were reunited at Heathrow Airport in London on Thursday, when the Duchess of Sussex took a solo flight from Los Angeles to meet her husband at the airport's VIP Windsor Suite. 

The couple subsequently boarded a British Airways flight to Abuja, where they later arrived on the invitation of the chief of defence staff. 

Meghan wore black trousers and a brown jacket for the journey, while her husband donned a black jacket and trousers. They're thought to be staying at Transcorp Hilton in Abuja during their trip. 

Harry and Meghan's first stop will be at a school before the Duke meets injured service members at a military hospital in the afternoon. They'll also attend a training session for charity organisation Nigeria: Unconquered, which collaborates with the Invictus Games, as well as a reception where military families will be honoured.

MORE OF PRINCE HARRY

Meghan is also set to co-host an event of Women in Leadership with Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the director-general of the World Trade Organisation.

On Sunday, the last day of their visit, the pair will attend a basketball camp with Giants of Africa, a cultural reception and a polo fundraiser for Nigeria: Unconquered.

The trip marks Meghan and Harry's first visit to Nigeria as a couple. The country holds a special place for them both, with Meghan having spent time with the Nigerian team at the Invictus Games last year and was even bestowed her own Nigerian name Amira Ngozi Lolo. 

While "Amira" translates as warrior princess from a legend, "Ngozi" means blessed and "Lolo" symbolises royal wife. 

Bobby Ojeh, the leader of the Nigerian team, told HELLO! last year: " She has the sentimental attachment to Nigeria , so it dawned on us as a team to say why don't we just give Meghan a name.

"She's wonderful, she's just wonderful. The way she embraced [her Nigerian heritage] meant a lot to us as Nigerians and this is the message we take back to Nigeria." 

Harry and Meghan's Nigeria visit comes after the Duke marked the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games at St Paul's Cathedral in London on Wednesday, where he was joined by various guests including close relatives of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales. 

The service at St Paul's began as King Charles met guests at the first Buckingham Palace garden party of 2024.

The father and son didn't meet during Harry's brief UK visit due to the King's "full programme", according to the Duke's spokesperson. 

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• Princess Lilibet
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21 most romantic getaways in florida.

For couples who love the beach, Florida is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.

Romantic Getaways in Florida

Courtesy of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort

The Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale provides all the essentials for a romantic getaway in Florida.

From world-renowned beaches bordered by small towns and big cities to island escapes and even all-inclusive resorts , Florida offers a seemingly endless variety of destinations perfect for an escape with your partner. To help you choose your next romantic getaway in Florida, we've rounded up the best of the best.

St. Augustine

• Bungalows Key Largo
• Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
• The Don CeSar

Miami Beach

Sanibel island, fort lauderdale.

• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Henderson Park Inn

Amelia Island

• The Breakers Palm Beach
• JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
• Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
• The Boca Raton Beach Club
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa
• Islamorada Resort Collection
• White Elephant Palm Beach

Courtesy of Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Head to St. Augustine if you and your soul mate appreciate history. Start your visit exploring Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you and your significant other can drink from the mythical spring early settlers believed had anti-aging properties. Then, spend some time at the aptly named Old Jail before visiting the town's famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Round out your trip by signing up for one of St. Augustine's spooky ghost tours .

If you and your beau would rather explore at your own pace, plan a leisurely stroll up and down St. George Street. This downtown, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with old-world structures that house boutique shops, eateries and art galleries, including local favorites like Whetstone Chocolates and the Spanish Bakery & Café. Later, you'll have the chance to fall in love all over again on a romantic sunset cruise , amid a horse-drawn carriage ride or after climbing to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

Where to stay: After a day of sightseeing, share a bottle of wine and gourmet international cuisine at lovebird-approved restaurants like Collage and Michael's before retreating to one of several enchanting properties located within the town center. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens boasts impeccable service, beautiful grounds, and well-appointed rooms and suites, which feature charming details like fireplaces, coquina walls and rain showers; verandas are also offered in select suites.

Meanwhile, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa , an Autograph Collection property, appeals to couples in search of old-world charm, spacious accommodations and an exclusive atmosphere (thanks in part to the pool cabanas and private beach club).

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

Located on the sun-kissed island of Key Largo, around 70 miles south of Miami, Bungalows Key Largo appeals to couples in search of an adults-only, all-inclusive escape . One of few all-inclusive resorts in Florida, the resort offers luxuries spanning an in-town courtesy car to complimentary valet parking, along with amenities such as free cruiser bikes and daily yoga sessions. While here, go for a dip in one of two outdoor pools, relax on 1,000 feet of private beach, or get out on the water in one of the resort's kayaks or paddleboards. For an additional cost, lovebirds can even pamper themselves with decadent treatments like a bamboo massage or mineral bath at the resort's on-site spa.

For dinner, enjoy coastal Mexican cuisine with your beau underneath a bevy of palm trees at the beachfront Sea Señor restaurant, then grab a cocktail under the Sunset Tiki Bar's thatched roof. When you're ready to bed down, you'll get to kick back in an exclusive bungalow that comes with a pillow-top mattress, rain shower and private veranda with a soaking tub. All bungalows feature garden or ocean views, but for a separate sitting area with a sofa bed, opt for the King Bungalow. For additional romantic perks, Bungalows Key Largo offers vacation packages for special occasions ranging from honeymoons and babymoons to engagement and elopement celebrations. With the popular "Romance Package," couples will receive extras like chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of sparkling wine and rose petals upon arrival.

Address: 99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key

Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Twosomes who crave peace and quiet will love visiting Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , a Noble House property. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Key West on Little Torch Key, this adults-only property is solely accessible by seaplane or boat. Inside all of the British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, visitors will discover details like vaulted ceilings, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers. Dial up the romance even further by adding on a turndown package that includes perks like a bottle of Champagne, a drawn bath for two and chocolate-covered strawberries. But while the resort is certainly laden with luxury, what makes Little Palm Island's suites ideal for couples is what they lack: Guests won't find TVs or telephones inside the accommodations, an intentional move by the resort to help travelers disconnect from everyday stress.

When you're ready to venture outside your digs, you can arrange off-site fishing excursions, scuba diving outings and more through the concierge or take advantage of the resort's countless amenities. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including couples massages and an aromatherapy bath, while the beach is the place to go for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The outdoor pool also features front-row views of the ocean, lounge chairs, and a bar that serves tropical cocktails and casual bites. For more substantial meals showcasing fresh seafood, grab a bite to eat in the resort's dining room. Enhance the mood even further by arranging a private dinner on the beach at sunset.

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042

The Don CeSar: St. Pete Beach

Courtesy of The Don CeSar

Opened in the late 1920s as a tribute to real estate scion Thomas Rowe's lost love, The Don CeSar regularly welcomes vacationing couples to St. Pete Beach, a community just west of St. Petersburg . Upon entering the "Pink Palace," you and your sweetheart will feel as if you've stepped back in time thanks to the property's old-Florida details, such as retro tile floors, wicker furnishings and palm leaf print. This Roaring '20s vibe is especially apparent in the lobby bar, which plays live jazz music and serves a selection of sophisticated cocktails and small plates. For a more romantic setting, grab a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor before enjoying a sunset, or cuddle by one of The Rowe Bar's outdoor fire pits. Maritana, the main restaurant, is the place to go if your ideal date night involves dressing up and savoring gourmet seafood.

Later, you can go for a dip in one of two heated outdoor pools, pamper yourselves at the full-service spa or borrow loaner bicycles to check out nearby attractions like Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that sits a little more than 5 miles south of the property. When it's time to bed down, you and your partner will enjoy charming digs decorated with blush-pink tones and beds dressed in plush linens. Some previous guests said basic rooms are small, so for more elbow room, reserve one of the hotel's penthouses, whose two-story layouts come with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.

Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Getty Images

For a dose of art and culture in a chic atmosphere, travel to bustling Miami Beach . In this ritzy seaside community just east of Miami, you'll discover miles of gorgeous sand and boulevards lined with upscale shops. Begin your vacation sunbathing at Lummus Park, or head north to Haulover Park for some fun in the sun sans clothing. If you and your partner would rather get out on the water than gaze at it from the shore, you can sign up for a private sailing charter ; take to the skies on a parasailing trip ; or rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, Jet Skis and powerboats through a reputable outfitter like Miami Tours & Water Adventures.

After soaking up some rays, get a dose of contemporary art at The Bass – a top Miami-area museum – then explore the lush Miami Beach Botanical Garden or admire the incredible structures that constitute the Art Deco Historic District on a guided tour. If your stomachs start to grumble, sit down for an Italian-inspired meal in Casa Tua's garden; the tropical plants, hanging lanterns and candles will help set the mood. Another top dining option involves savoring plates of salmon tartare, wagyu beef gyoza or truffle risotto at the rooftop restaurant Juvia.

Where to stay: In the evening, hang your hats at Fontainebleau Miami Beach , one of the best hotels in the city. Past guests praised the attentive staff and clean accommodations (which include amenities like iMac computers and minibars) but said it was the property's on-site facilities that set it apart from the rest. Duos can swim in one of 11 pools, lounge on the beach and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, among other activities.

Few Florida destinations are as serene and laid-back as Sanibel Island , which continues to make a remarkable recovery following damages sustained from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Situated about 25 miles southwest of Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island appeals to couples seeking rest and relaxation. While there are no shortage of fun activities – such as shopping along Periwinkle Way or bird-watching at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge – lovebirds will likely spend the bulk of their time at Sanibel Island's beautiful beaches. Turner Beach and Blind Pass Beach are especially popular for shelling, while the shoreline by the Sanibel Island Lighthouse is an excellent place to spot wild dolphins.

Where to stay: Local accommodations here run the gamut from charming cottages and inns to beachfront resorts and hotels. Couples who prefer boutique-style properties will love staying at Island Inn , which features an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, a restaurant and 500-plus feet of pristine shoreline.

Take your partner to Fort Lauderdale if having a mix of things to see and do is just as important as sticking to a budget. Spend some time lounging on the beach – Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach earn rave reviews from visitors for their crystal-clear waters, clean sand, and proximity to restaurants and hotels. You may also want to prioritize Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where couples can rent tandem kayaks and pedal boats. Outside the park, you'll find countless other ways to keep yourselves occupied, whether you're exploring the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District on a bike tour or paddleboarding along Fort Lauderdale's famous waterways.

Once you've worked up an appetite, head to traveler-approved eateries like Kaluz Restaurant for fresh seafood, premium cuts of meat, and comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads. Diners also loved Steak 954 and Casablanca Cafe, which serves up specialties such as baked escargot. Meanwhile, couples seeking an enchanting ambiance can opt for an exclusive gondola dinner cruise along the city's New River.

Where to stay: Check in to the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort , where you and your partner can lounge by the pool, enjoy a couples massage at the spa and go for a stroll on the beach at sunset. For a romantic dinner, make reservations at the hotel's signature restaurant 3030 Ocean, which specializes in fresh seafood and oceanfront views.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Lake Buena Vista

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Reserve a room at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa if you and your significant other are kids at heart. Unlike other properties on the Walt Disney World Resort grounds, this hotel – situated less than 25 miles southwest of central Orlando – offers an opulent setting made for couples. While you and your partner will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Grand Floridian's easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is only one stop away on Disney's monorail, the hotel's Victorian-style architecture and upscale amenities shouldn't be overlooked. Inside the grandiose lobby, sweethearts can forget about life's stresses while listening to live piano music. What's more, the hotel's two zero-entry pools provide a quiet atmosphere ideal for adults. And if you're feeling nostalgic, you can participate in property activities like making s'mores by a fire pit or watching movies beneath the stars.

Following a day of relaxing or Orlando theme park hopping, get dressed up for a romantic evening on-site. You can start the night toasting to your love at the Enchanted Rose, an elegant lounge with four areas inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," including an outdoor patio and a library. Then, treat yourselves to dinner at Cítricos. Featuring decor inspired by the film "Mary Poppins Returns," this upscale restaurant serves mouthwatering Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. To explore Orlando's culinary offerings outside of the hotel, guests can reserve a table at traveler-approved restaurants Kres Chophouse or Capa. After filling up on gourmet fare, retreat to your guest room or suite. You can upgrade to an Outer Building suite with a direct view of Cinderella Castle, or choose a club-level room for extras like health club access and admission to a lounge with complimentary refreshments.

Address: 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Henderson Park Inn: Destin

You may not immediately think of Destin when planning a romantic getaway in Florida, but this quiet town on the Florida Panhandle makes a perfect escape for twosomes. In addition to offering ample outdoor activities, such as fishing and sunset cruises , this laid-back town overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is where you'll find the Henderson Park Inn . At this adults-only, all-inclusive Florida hotel, you and your sweetheart will have access to all kinds of amenities, including loaner bicycles, daily happy hour beverages and the use of a fitness center. You can also check out the hotel's sister property – Henderson Beach Resort – to lounge by the upper-deck pool or unwind at the spa.

When hunger starts to set in, make your way to the Henderson Park Inn's Beach Walk Café to savor delectable seafood and meat dishes. (Keep in mind, though, that the all-inclusive plan does not cover dinner here.) With the restaurant's "Toes in the Sand" private dining experience, you and your partner can enjoy an intimate sunset dinner on the beach. Once you've finished your meal, retire to one of the hotel's plush rooms or suites. The Presidential Suite offers amenities ranging from a whirlpool tub to a spacious private balcony, while the Studio Suite is the only suite equipped with a kitchenette.

Address: 2700 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541

Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island draws twosomes in search of secluded shores, lush vegetation and ample activities. Spend your visit lounging on the 13 miles of beaches – complete with soft Appalachian quartz sand – and strolling hand in hand beneath Spanish moss-covered oak trees. For a more active getaway, explore the island on a 6-mile bike ride through Fort Clinch State Park before hitting the links at one of Amelia Island's five world-renowned golf courses. In the evening, lovers can head to Peters Point Beach Front Park for a sunset horseback ride along the coast, and round out the night with a romantic dinner for two at traveler-approved restaurants like Le Clos or Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, an AAA Five Diamond award recipient.

Where to stay: For those looking to pamper themselves during their vacation, Amelia Island offers a variety of luxurious hotels. Bed down at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for access to a spa with sea-inspired treatments, multiple pools with private cabanas and an oceanfront tennis court; the accommodations here feature romantic touches like terraces with fire tables and plush bathrobes. Or, couples can opt for a stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort , a 1,350-acre property that boasts an adults-only infinity pool, a spa, a steakhouse, and 400-plus guest rooms with ocean-facing balconies or patios.

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The Breakers Palm Beach: Palm Beach

This colossal South Florida property – which has been a fixture in Palm Beach since 1896 and sits less than 2 miles from downtown West Palm Beach – features an extravagant appearance that pays homage to Rome's Villa Medici. After driving down the palm-lined driveway at  The Breakers , past manicured lawns and a Florentine Fountain, step into the grandiose lobby to admire beautiful Venetian chandeliers hanging from painted ceilings. Though standard accommodations come outfitted with everything you need for a romantic date night in (think: minibars, plush bathrobes and flat-screen TVs), you may want to upgrade to a Flagler Club room or suite to make your stay extra memorable. These accommodations, which sit on two restricted floors of the resort, come with exclusive perks like chauffeured Tesla car service, a cocktail hour, and access to a private lounge and rooftop terrace.

Outside your room or suite, you'll find numerous amenities made for twosomes. Head to the resort's private beach to enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing; lounge by the adults-only infinity pool; tee off on the state's oldest golf course; or treat yourselves to a personalized couples massage at the spa. When you're ready to eat, sit down for a meal at the property's steakhouse or seafood bar, both of which earn rave reviews from past patrons. Another top dining option is nearby Renato's, an Italian-inspired eatery with an enchanting outdoor courtyard.

Address: 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort: Marco Island

Courtesy of JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in southwest Florida, you and your significant other will instantly feel at ease while lounging on the resort's 3-mile-long private beach or challenging each other to a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. The resort also houses a 24,000-square-foot spa, where you can unwind in the steam room or soothe aching muscles during a couples massage. Should you crave a Caribbean-inspired cocktail or bite to eat, head to the on-site Quinn's on the Beach – in the evenings you can witness both a gorgeous sunset and fire dancers putting on an incredible performance.

Most accommodations here offer balconies that face the Gulf, but if you don't mind splurging for newer digs and additional privacy, previous visitors suggest booking a Paradise by Sirene room or suite. Located on the top four floors of a private tower that only permits guests ages 21 and older, these accommodations include extras like access to an adults-only rooftop pool, daily breakfast for two and concierge services in their nightly rates. Guests can also enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tesoro, that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Address: 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34145

Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach: Sunny Isles Beach

Courtesy of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

Feel worlds away from busy Miami Beach without sacrificing proximity to its top attractions by staying at the serene Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach . Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from its perch in Sunny Isles Beach, a town situated about 10 miles north of South Beach, this award-winning property offers all kinds of relaxation-focused amenities. Guests can arrange a treatment in the ESPA-affiliated spa's Royal Spa Suite, equipped with a two-person rainforest shower and a private wraparound balcony. Then, reserve a cabana for additional privacy and pampering while enjoying the adults-only pool, or sink your toes in the sand at the 400-foot-long beach. To satiate your appetite, surprise your beau with a picnic or private dinner on the beach. A highly regarded Italian restaurant with charming terraces and an excellent selection of wines is also located on-site.

Past guests praised the hotel's kind and attentive staff, and many said the resort's smaller size added to its tranquil atmosphere. Standard rooms are spacious at 600 square feet and feature everything from Jacuzzi tubs to minibars to private balconies. Meanwhile, suites offer even more square footage and additions like dining chairs and separate living rooms. Enhance your stay by booking the resort's "Ultimate Spa Package for Two," which covers an oceanfront room or suite, four spa treatments, a welcome amenity, and a spa lunch for you and your partner, among other perks.

Address: 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

A romantic getaway to Naples is all about spending time outside while also enjoying the finer things in life. In this luxe coastal town on Florida's Gulf Coast, you'll discover uncrowded beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and an abundance of high-end shops interspersed between alfresco dining and boutique art galleries. Stroll hand in hand along a favorite beach, or venture approximately 30 miles northwest of town to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where you can admire verdant vegetation and spot alligators, otters and more. If you'd rather surround yourself with water views and sunsets, you'll have your pick of beautiful beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach Park and Clam Pass Park.

Balance your time in nature with some retail therapy. Downtown's Fifth Avenue South is where you'll find a variety of locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques and specialty shops. Later, satisfy your appetite at one of the best restaurants in Naples ; top romantic eatery options include BALEEN, Campiello's or Bleu Provence with its extensive wine collection.

Where to stay: Because Naples offers a ritzier vibe than most beach destinations in Florida, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for accommodations here. Those who love to golf should seek out a room or suite at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón , which features two Greg Norman-designed courses at its famous Tiburón Golf Club, plus an outdoor pool and restaurant that overlook the links. For lodging closer to the water, choose the centrally located Inn on Fifth . Situated a few blocks east of the beach on Fifth Avenue South, this property offers accommodations with Juliet balconies or terraces, a spa, and a rooftop pool.

The Boca Raton Beach Club: Boca Raton

Courtesy of The Boca Raton Beach Club

Couples who want to spoil themselves while on vacation should consider a room or suite at The Boca Raton Beach Club , part of the larger Boca Raton resort. Nestled on a private peninsula in the Palm Beaches resort town of Boca Raton, just north of South Inlet Park, this luxurious property aims to please with its plethora of perks. Inside the modern accommodations, twosomes will find minibars and floor-to-ceiling windows alongside marble bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs. Select upgraded rooms and suites also come outfitted with lanais, sun decks or balconies that provide phenomenal ocean views.

Duos interested in getting some vitamin D may want to spend the bulk of their time swimming and sunbathing at the resort's private beach or three oceanfront pools. For those who need a break from the water, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and 16 tennis courts available to test your athletic skills. In the evening, clink glasses with your sweetheart at the chic Colin Cowie-designed lobby lounge.

Address: 900 S. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Choose charming Vero Beach for a romantic trip away if you and your partner appreciate art and love spending time outside. Situated on Florida's east coast about 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, this idyllic town offers ample ways to pass the time. Craving some outdoor solitude? Stop by Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, a natural oasis known for its diverse bird population and excellent stargazing opportunities. If you'd rather stay within town limits, grab a pair of paddleboards or kayaks from Orchid Outfitters and head to Round Island Riverside Park. In this quiet park by the Indian River, you can paddle past wild manatees (taking care not to disturb them) or admire them from the 400-foot-long boardwalk; you'll also find beach access across the street in Round Island Oceanside Park. Meanwhile, couples seeking a dose of culture can check out nearly 900 pieces on display at the Vero Beach Museum of Art or McKee Botanical Garden's impressive collection of sculptures and native plants.

Where to stay: After a leisurely day of exploring town, split a bottle of wine and Florida-inspired bites like conch fritters at The Tides – or watch the sun dip below the ocean's surface while savoring fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and more at Ocean Grill. Both restaurants sit within walking distance of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa , two beachfront hotels made for couples. The Kimpton property features tropical accommodations, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by swaying palm trees. Meanwhile, Costa d'Este offers sunrise yoga classes, water sports equipment rentals, and ocean-facing rooms and suites.

Laurence Norah | Courtesy of Florida Keys News Bureau

Key West attracts couples seeking dreamy accommodations set amid a laid-back island atmosphere. Look for lodging at the well-appointed Ocean Key Resort & Spa , where every guest room comes with a personal balcony and whirlpool tub, or opt for a charming personal cottage at Sunset Key Cottages . Located on a private island and only reachable by boat, this enchanting property features luxe amenities like fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms. Here, couples can relax at the resort's serene spa during the day and, in the evening, dine at the award-winning beachfront restaurant Latitudes. Recent diners complimented the terrific service and delicious menu but said the view was what really made their experience unforgettable.

When you're not lounging around your resort, spy a six-toed cat at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, watch the sun go down from Mallory Square or grab a drink with your beau along bustling Duval Street. Plus, thanks to its abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs, Key West is a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive. If you're looking to up the romance factor even further, take an exhilarating seaplane tour with your sweetheart to Dry Tortugas National Park, which sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West and is known best for its 19th-century fort and cobalt-blue waters.

From stunning beaches to historic estates, couples will find plenty to see and do in this southern Florida locale. Explore nearby Lovers Key State Park on a guided ecotour, or plan your visit for winter to spot wild manatees at Manatee Park. For an unforgettable Fort Myers date night, board the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, an interactive show where lovebirds can put their sleuthing skills to the test while savoring delectable meat dishes and sipping on specialty cocktails. Round out your romantic getaway to Fort Myers with a chocolate-making class at Norman Love Confections, where you and your other half can learn how to create decadent sweets like truffles and fudge. When your stomach starts to rumble, check out romantic restaurants like Bayfront Bistro & Bar and The Veranda, where couples can fill up on specialties like veal piccata and Chilean sea bass.

Where to stay: After spending the day reconnecting with your sweetie, couples can retire to upscale digs at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa , a lovebird-approved property facing the Caloosahatchee River. Or, book your stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina , a quiet beachfront retreat that offers exclusive amenities such as a full-service marina, a zero-entry pool and a relaxing spa.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa: Islamorada

Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa

If you and your sweetie like to keep busy while on vacation, book a room at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , one of the best resorts in the Florida Keys . This tropical paradise offers myriad ways for couples to spend their romantic getaway. Work on your swing at the resort's nine-hole golf course, challenge your partner to a volleyball tournament on the beach, cast a line from the property's 525-foot-long pier or get out on the water in a clear-bottomed kayak. Later, you can give your aching muscles a break by taking advantage of the resort's Xbox arcade, extensive book collection and game room, which features classics like air hockey, pool and ping-pong.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is also home to three heated swimming pools, more than 1,000 feet of white sand beach and seven spa treatment rooms. Plus, with two outdoor bars and three top-notch restaurants serving everything from sushi to artisanal pizza, foodie couples will rejoice come dinnertime. When you're ready to hit the hay, you'll be treated to accommodations that feature either resort, lagoon or ocean views and come equipped with screened-in or open-air balconies, plush bedding and rain showers. While many travelers raved over the resort's beautiful property and well-appointed rooms, others lamented that the beach can sometimes get overrun with seaweed, so consider elsewhere if you plan on spending the majority of your vacation lounging on the beach.

Address: 81801 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Islamorada Resort Collection: Islamorada

Courtesy of Islamorada Resorts Collection

Perfect for couples seeking seclusion in the Florida Keys, The Islamorada Resorts Collection comprises four hotels: Amara Cay Resort , Pelican Cove Resort & Marina , Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and La Siesta Resort & Villas . No matter which accommodations you choose, you'll enjoy access to the amenities at all four hotels – including 55 boat slips, eight restaurants, two fitness centers, complimentary beachside yoga, daily scheduled events and water sports ranging from jet skiing to fishing charters. There's also a lagoon-style pool at Amara Cay. When and if you decide to leave the property, you'll enjoy its proximity to local attractions like the History of Diving Museum and the arts and culture district.

Address: 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

White Elephant Palm Beach: Palm Beach

Chi-Thien Nguyen | Courtesy of Elkus Manfredi Architects

Different from the region's mega beach resorts , the White Elephant Palm Beach feels more like a private residence, with just 19 suites and 13 guest rooms. The aethestic varies from many local hotels, too, with black-and-white-striped awnings, terracotta roof tilings and hardwood floors throughout the property. Upscale accommodations are outfitted with custom-designed furniture including king beds with beautifully upholstered head boards, and two penthouse suites feature terraces overlooking Bradley Park.

Complete with a patio, pool and ice cream cart serving complimentary treats, the lush outdoor courtyard is the ultimate place to relax and recharge at this boutique hotel. And at the brand's signature restaurant, Lola 41, you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine and seafood specialties.

If and when you and partner are ready to dig your toes in the sand, grab your complimentary beach gear and hop on the hotel shuttle (also complimentary), which will transport you to the beach a few blocks away. For other romantic rendezvous in Palm Beach, you can borrow bikes, be chauffeured into town via a BMW 7 Series luxury sedan or book an exclusive excursion aboard a Barton & Gray yacht.

Address: 280 Sunset Ave., Palm Beach, FL 33480

You might also be interested in:

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Tags: Florida Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

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SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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