Wondering where to go in October and November to make the most of the season? Whether you want to chase colourful foliage, enjoy unique festivals, or simply escape to warmer climates, we’ve got you covered. From thrilling theme parks to scenic nature escapes and lively celebrations, these top autumn holiday destinations offer something special for every traveller.
Read on to discover the best places to visit for an unforgettable autumn holiday abroad.
Walt Disney World Orlando in Autumn
Autumn is a magical time to visit Walt Disney World, with lower crowds, cooler weather, and festive touches across the parks. A standout seasonal event is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, where families can enjoy trick-or-treating, themed parades, fireworks, and rare character meet-and-greets. The parks are decked out in autumn colours and charming pumpkin displays, making it a fantastic time for families to soak up the magic.
Universal Orlando Resort in Autumn
Autumn at Universal Orlando is all about Halloween Horror Nights, one of the most immersive and thrilling Halloween events anywhere. This after-dark ticketed event transforms the park into a chilling experience with movie-quality haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows inspired by classic horror films and modern nightmares. During the day, you can enjoy lighter queues, milder weather, and delicious seasonal treats across the parks.
New England in Autumn
Autumn in New England is pure magic, with vibrant foliage blanketing the landscape in shades of red, orange, and gold. It’s peak leaf-peeping season, and the perfect time to enjoy scenic drives through Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and cosy roadside diners complete the experience. For a touch of eerie history, head to Salem, Massachusetts, where Halloween is a month-long celebration filled with ghost tours, haunted houses, and nods to its infamous witch trials.
Mexico in Autumn
You won’t want to miss autumn in Mexico. This season experience the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebration. Translating to ‘Day of the Dead’, Día de los Muertos is a deeply meaningful, UNESCO-recognised festival that honours loved ones who have passed. Streets and altars come alive with marigolds, candles, music, and colourful displays, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that you just have to experience yourself. Beyond the festivities, autumn offers warm, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds making it the perfect time to explore Mexico’s beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and bustling markets.
New York City in Autumn
There’s something about New York in autumn, The cooler temperatures, the vibrant trees in Central Park, and a buzz throughout the city. October brings pumpkins, crisp autumn air, and a spooky atmosphere around Greenwich Village thanks to its famous Halloween parade. In November, the build-up to Thanksgiving kicks off in style, with the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade drawing crowds and holiday spirit to the streets. Autumn in NYC offers that classic movie-feel experience perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and soaking up the season.
British Columbia in Autumn
British Columbia, particularly Vancouver and the surrounding wilderness, is a nature-lover’s dream in autumn. This is prime time for bear watching and it’s also the tail end of whale watching season, so there’s still a chance to see orcas and humpbacks along the coast. With golden forests, crisp mountain air, and harvest festivals in full swing, British Columbia is a refreshing alternative to the usual autumn sun escape.
Autumn Holidays, Your Way
Whether you’re dreaming of crisp autumn walks, vibrant festivals and parades, or simply want to catch some winter sun, we can help create your perfect autumn holiday.
Start planning your ideal autumn getaway today with our team of Personal Travel Planners and discover more with American Holidays.
