Traveling at any time of the year has its advantages, but fall is an especially wonderful period to get away from it all. If you can carve out some quality me-time at the last minute, you may want to explore a city you’ve never visited — or a place you treasure and have been aching to see again. These last-minute fall vacation destinations will have you reaching for your suitcase right away!
1. Santa Barbara, CA
Even if your time in Santa Barbara, CA, is limited, you’ll find that there’s plenty to squeeze into the journey. The city, fondly known as the American Riviera, is simply a postcard come to life. Not only is the weather beautiful nearly year-round, but there are stunning beaches everywhere and mesmerizing architecture for history buffs to explore. The beauty of arriving during fall is that you won’t have to deal with the inevitable summer crowds — and more importantly, you’ll be privy to that gorgeous foliage that colors the city in a radiant palette of golds, greens, and reds.
2. Louisville, KY
Louisville is known for plenty: baseball, bourbon, and horses are just a few of its standout features. But there’s so much more to this quaint Kentucky city than meets the eye, and booking a trip to this last-minute fall vacation destination is the perfect way to experience it. Likely the best way for nature lovers to enjoy their surroundings is to go for a hike in one of the city’s many parks. Don’t miss some of the city’s major festivals that occur during autumn, including the beloved NuLu Fest in September. Featuring beer, shopping, food, and fun activities, it’s a free one-day event that will appeal to the entire family.
3. San Francisco, CA
Indian summer in San Francisco, CA, is not to be missed — especially if you want to escape the cool air in your own town. But it’s more than just the great weather that will appeal to you. Fall is also when the streets come alive in this vibrant city. The completely free Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival is held every year during the first weekend in October in Golden State Park. The Treasure Island Music Festival, also in October, is another worthwhile reason to visit: it packs countless musical, art, and comedic festivities into two days. You can also indulge your love for fresh fruits and vegetables at one of the city’s many farmers’ markets — fall is the perfect time of year to snag everything from winter squash to eggplant.
4. Virginia Beach, VA
The beach — in the fall? It’s still a great time of year to go, especially if you’re headed to Virginia Beach, VA. The weather is pleasant, the breeze is light, and the conditions are just right for the kick-off to fall: the annual Neptune Festival, held on the boardwalk annually. Enjoy everything from wine tastings to free concerts! If you happen to be in the area on Halloween, a visit to the notorious Nightmare Mansion on Atlantic Avenue will send chills down your spine. It’s been around for years, and it never fails to entertain — or terrorize. Rooms are considerably lower priced at this time of year, too, so now may be the time to snag that VIP suite overlooking the ocean.
5. Savannah, GA
Oppressive heat, begone! Although Savannah, GA, can be a beast during summer, it’s wonderfully pleasant and comfortable when autumn rolls around. The weather is essentially a welcome mat for you to go outside and play. You’re welcome to enjoy a walking tour of the city’s most haunted homes and buildings, or rent a bike and explore the city on your own. Savannah is also renowned for its fantastic fall festivals. There’s the annual Savannah Jazz Festival in Forsyth Park, lively Oktoberfest on River Street, and the Savannah Film Festival hosted by the Savannah College of Art and Design. What better way to make the most of your time there — and meet a few locals, too?
Book Your Quick Fall Getaway Today
If you’re ready to book a trip to one of these last-minute fall vacation destinations, don’t delay. This is a great time to snap up rooms at a discount and start planning an itinerary for an unforgettable trip! Visit BusTickets.com to get started.
References
https://nulubusinessassocation.wildapricot.org/page-18162
http://www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.com/2019/info/
https://www.neptunefestival.com/
https://www.visitsavannah.com/article/top-fall-events-to-attend-savannah
