Vacations in the spring and summer are iconic for a reason, but there is something truly magnificent about travel in fall. Cooler temperatures bring fewer crowds, and the crisp air and changing leaves set the tone for adventure. Whether in search of colorful foliage or stunning scenery without all the buzz of other tourists, there are so many fantastic places to visit through autumn's peak in October in the USA.
Spending autumn in New England offers travelers the chance to soak in the ambiance of quaint towns while being surrounded by one of nature's most colorful displays. Places to visit in the fall on the East Coast include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Each state brings its own charms, from pleasant heritage railways to coastal towns and scenic byways, including the world-renowned Kancamagus Highway. Visitors can soak in fall's beautiful hues on lake cruises or from the comfortable seats of deluxe motorcoaches, each offering a fresh perspective on the scenery.
Places to travel in October and November also include destinations across America's West. Aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr, vacationers can head toward national parks, including Yellowstone and Yosemite, or venture out to California. Once in California, the Coast Starlight weaves up the state along the shore of the Pacific to present glamorous cities, wineries, mountains, and more. Fall trips may also stretch across the country, traveling from San Francisco in the West to Chicago in the Midwest or even further to New York in the East, aboard Amtrak trains. There are also autumn tours that highlight New Orleans and the beauty of the deep South. Of all vacations in the U.S., fall trips are perhaps the most unique of all with their wide range of offerings.
(69 reviews)
Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...
(319 reviews)
The classic ambiance of an overnight rail journey meets the splendors of one of America's top natural attractions on this rail vacation to Arizona. Join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its cross-country route from Chicago to Flagstaff, and then board the 120-year-old Grand Canyon Railway on its route to the Grand Canyon. Uncover iconic views and top...
(85 reviews)Bask in hues of gold, russet and crimson on this escorted tour of New England, visiting leaf-peeping hotspots across three of its beautiful states. Visit significant landmarks of American history on a guided tour of Boston, before traveling through the famous foliage of Kancamagus Highway. Admire the atmospheric White Mountains in North Conway...
(28 reviews)Beginning in Los Angeles, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for the overnight journey to Flagstaff, Arizona, where you will catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for the ride to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 4-day rail vacation includes travel aboard two iconic trains, hotel accommodations in Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park,...
On this new itinerary for 2026, experience scenic railways on an unforgettable tour of New England in the Fall. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this autumn tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Boston with time to explore its history and culture, then journey by boat to fascinating Salem. ...
(71 reviews)Embark on an autumnal tour of coastal New England at the most picturesque time of the year. From Boston, explore popular East Coast locations like coastal Kennebunkport and Portland in Maine, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, and Newport in Rhode Island. Delight in excursions aboard two of America's unique dinner trains and gain a new...
(20 reviews)A region of scenic landscapes and iconic cities beckons as you dip your toes into Southern heritage in Tennessee and North Carolina. Uncover the 'Music City' of Nashville before turning to nature in Chattanooga, Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. Witness dramatic scenery painted in seasonal brilliance while riding aboard three scenic...
(59 reviews)Connect two exceptional cities with one of the most scenic rail routes in the United States on this vacation featuring the iconic California Zephyr. After spending the night in Chicago, step aboard your Amtrak train for a two-night, 2,300-mile route from the Midwest to the West Coast. Enjoy changing scenery, from plains to mountains and deserts,...
Follow the lead of the explorers of years past and head west for a grand adventure to the "City by the Bay," San Francisco. This six-day rail vacation shows the contrasts between two American cities and the nature that surrounds them. Spend a day wrapped in the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies while based in Denver, and then board...
(74 reviews)Join an expert Tour Manager and local guides on this 9-day vacation beginning and ending in San Francisco. Embark on an unforgettable tour unveiling some of California's greatest offerings - including a spectacular day aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train and time to uncover the Golden State's premier nature spots. Marvel at the rugged...
The sites of yesteryear, iconic towns and delightful fall scenery set the backdrop for this New England adventure. Following an itinerary through Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, this journey presents some of the nation's best autumnal foliage in unforgettable settings. Explore by rail on the Conway Scenic...
(133 reviews)Spend ten days marveling at the distinctions of autumn in New England and Eastern Canada, discovering how the changing leaves are as unique as the destinations themselves. Soak up Boston's history before traveling to New Hampshire to ride the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad and viewing the colors from Vermont's Stowe Gondola Skyride. We...
May 22, 2026 · By Ian Holt
Aboard Canyon Spirit’s new three-day route from Salt Lake City to Denver, Great Rail Journeys writer Ian discovers the Southwest’s beauty in relaxed luxury.
Read more
Oct 20, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
Read more
Oct 14, 2025 · By Rob Payne
Experience New England’s colorful fall foliage with our great range of escorted tours, exploring the White Mountains, Cape Cod and Maine.
Read more
Jul 24, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Whether in America’s national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
Read more