October Bucket List Ideas for Travel: Your Great Autumn Adventure
October brings a crisp air and vibrant leaves, inviting you on an autumn adventure. You can find cozy places, scenic drives, or cultural events. The options for seasonal getaways are endless. From New England’s fall colors to Park City’s outdoor fun, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to see all these ideas for your October Bucket List for Travel.
Dive into the beauty of fall vacation plans and make memories that will last forever.
Key Takeaways
- The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to over 100 species of deciduous trees, perfect for breathtaking leaf-peeping experiences.
- Park City offers prime opportunities for fall hikes and biking, with ski slopes opening in late November.
- Destination Kohler’s American Club Resort Hotel provides a luxurious retreat just a few hours’ drive from Chicago and Milwaukee.
- The Willamette Valley in Oregon, with around 700 wineries, offers exceptional wine tours for connoisseurs.
- Embrace romantic moments and culinary delights in Charleston, South Carolina, known for its food and historic charm.
Pack your bags and explore the amazing places that make October travel an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Discover the Magic of New England’s Fall Foliage
New England’s forests turn into a colorful tapestry in the fall. It’s a top spot for autumn travel. The best time to see the peak foliage is from late September to mid-October. A road trip through New England can last from 3 days to 2 weeks, offering a full experience of this natural wonder.
Take a Scenic Drive through Vermont
Vermont is known for its stunning landscapes in the fall. A drive through Vermont shows off the state’s beauty. Vermont Route 100 is the most scenic, covering over 200 miles of forests, mountains, and villages.
Make sure to visit historical sites, covered bridges, and towns like Stowe, Woodstock, and Montpelier. These places offer a complete Vermont beauty experience.
Explore Maine’s Scenic Route 26
Maine Route 26 is another great drive for fall foliage. It offers beautiful views, especially in the western part of the state. This drive lets you enjoy the peaceful areas of Maine, like Aroostook County.
Be sure to try local foods, like lobster, at places like the Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth. It’s a true Maine experience.
Visit Mystic Seaport and Aquarium
For a mix of nature and culture, visit Mystic Seaport and Aquarium in Connecticut. It combines history with marine attractions, offering both learning and fun. Don’t miss the vintage trolleys at the Connecticut Trolley Museum or the shops in midcoast Maine’s Wiscasset.
The Best Oktoberfest Celebrations in the U.S.
Oktoberfest is big in the U.S., with many towns celebrating in their own way. You’ll find “oompah” music, tasty bratwurst, and great beer. Whether you like big events or small gatherings, there’s something for everyone. This is a favorite October Bucket List Idea for Travel.
Experience Bavarian Culture in Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, is known for its Bavarian traditions. It hosts a magical Oktoberfest celebration. Surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, it offers German music, food, and beer. This town turns into a mini-Bavaria, perfect for both locals and tourists.
Enjoy the Festivities in Helen, Georgia
Helen, Georgia, brings a Southern twist to Oktoberfest U.S.. It’s designed like a Bavarian alpine village. The Helen Georgia celebrations include parades, German food, and beer. The Appalachian foothills add to the beauty, making it a must-see for Oktoberfest fans.
| Oktoberfest Location | Unique Features | Annual Attendance |
|---|---|---|
| Leavenworth, Washington | Bavarian music, authentic German cuisine, scenic mountain setting | 25,000 |
| Helen, Georgia | Alpine village setup, parades, Appalachian foothill scenery | 70,000 |
| Cincinnati, Ohio | Largest Oktoberfest in the U.S., massive amounts of sauerkraut and bratwurst | 700,000 |
| La Crosse, Wisconsin | One of the biggest outside Munich, extensive beer selections | 120,000 |
| Denver, Colorado | Two-weekend events, close to 150 breweries | 350,000 |
| Salt Lake County, Utah | Snowbird mountain setting, diverse activities | 600,000 |
| Torrance, California | Alpine Village celebration, 100+ craft beers | 45,000 |
| Chicago, Illinois | Free admission with charity donation option | 55,000 |
Visit a Pumpkin Patch and Celebrate Harvest Season
Fall brings the beautiful colors of New England’s foliage and a harvest season full of fun. A key part of autumn in New England is visiting a pumpkin patch and celebrating the season’s harvest. Visiting pumpkin patches with the family is the ultimate October bucket list idea for travel.
Attend New Hampshire’s Pumpkin Festival
The New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival is a must-see for fall fans. Every year, it draws tens of thousands of visitors to see the amazing lit jack o’ lanterns. The festival has live music, food, and pumpkin carving contests. It’s a celebration of harvest season that’s fun for the whole family.
Pick Your Own Pumpkin at a Local Farm
Picking your own pumpkin at a local farm is a classic fall activity. New England’s farms offer more than just pumpkin patches. At Hellerick’s Family Farm’s Fall Festival, there are over 40 activities like corn mazes and hayrides. Linvilla Orchards has a five-acre corn maze and many other attractions at their Pumpkinland event.
| Farm | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hellerick’s Family Farm | Over 40 activities |
| Linvilla Orchards | Five-acre corn maze, multiple attractions |
| Peddler’s Village | Over 100 scarecrows |
| Shady Brook Farm | Multiple activities, corn maze |
| Highland Orchards | 200 acres, five-acre corn maze, multiple activities |
| Arasapha Farm | Four-acre pumpkin garden, five-acre corn maze |
| Charlann Farms | Multiple activities during Fall Festival Weekends |
| Lytle’s Farm | 40 acres, four-acre corn maze |
| Chester Springs Creamery at Milky Way Farm | 48 flavors of homemade ice cream |
| Merrymead Farm | Five-acre corn maze, multiple attractions during Harvest Days |
| Snipes Farm | Multiple experiences, new ‘scary’ animatronic monsters |
These activities help you connect with the season and make lasting memories. From corn cannons to wagon rides, there’s something for everyone. After visiting, carve your pumpkins, roast the seeds, and maybe bake a pumpkin pie. This festive season truly comes alive when you take part in these traditions.
Take a Scenic Drive on Blue Ridge Parkway
Start an unforgettable journey on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive.” It spans 469 miles, filled with stunning views and attractions. Every mile reveals new wonders, from vibrant fall colors to the Appalachian beauty.
Stop at the Blue Ridge Music Center
Don’t miss the Blue Ridge Music Center on your drive. It celebrates the area’s music heritage. Visitors can dive into Appalachian music’s rich history. The center also hosts live shows and exhibits, perfect for music lovers.
Explore Whitewater Falls in Jackson County
Whitewater Falls in Jackson County is another must-see. It’s the highest waterfall east of the Rockies. The falls offer breathtaking views and great hiking trails. A visit here showcases the Blue Ridge region’s natural beauty.
October Ideas to Do Related to Travel
October brings a wide range of activities, from autumn excursions to outdoor adventures. You can explore haunted trails or enjoy seasonal foods. There’s something for everyone.
Bucket List October Ideas: Cultural Experiences
Start with cultural experiences. The Telluride Horror Show in Colorado offers scary movies like The Return of the Living Dead and Little Shop of Horrors. For food lovers, the Harvest on the Harbor in Portland, Maine, is a must-see. It features lobster, oysters, beer, wine, and spirits.
The Salem Haunted Happenings in Massachusetts is a great place for spooky fun. It has haunted houses, psychic fairs, and costume balls. The Hawai’i Food and Wine Festival is also a highlight, with top chefs and mixologists.
For big celebrations, the Krewe of Boo! Halloween parade in New Orleans is unforgettable. It features floats and costumed revelers. In Miami, the South Beach Seafood Festival offers seafood, live music, and chef competitions.
Enjoy Nature: Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor adventures abound too. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico is a sight to see. Hundreds of balloons fill the sky against the Sandia Mountains. The Austin City Limits Music Festival in Texas is a music lover’s dream, with live performances and local flavors.
In New York City, the Village Halloween Parade is a must-see. It’s a colorful procession of costumes. The Bayfield Apple Festival in Wisconsin celebrates the harvest with apple treats and crafts.
| Event | Location | Date | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Telluride Horror Show | Colorado | October | Scary Movies |
| Harvest on the Harbor | Portland, ME | October | Food & Wine Tasting |
| Salem Haunted Happenings | Massachusetts | October | Haunted Houses, Fairs |
| Hawai’i Food and Wine Festival | Hawaii | October | Food & Drink |
| Krewe of Boo! | New Orleans, LA | Third Weekend of October | Parades, Costumes |
| Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta | New Mexico | October | Balloon Rides |
| Austin City Limits Music Festival | Texas | Oct. 4-6 and 11-13 | Live Music, Art |
| Bayfield Apple Festival | Wisconsin | October | Apple Treats, Crafts |
| Village Halloween Parade | New York City, NY | October | Costume Parade |
| Joshua Tree Music Festival | Palm Springs, CA | Oct. 10-13 | Music & Camping |
October offers a wide range of activities for all. From family-friendly events to spooky celebrations, it’s a great time to travel. You can make unforgettable memories.
Go Apple Picking in Upstate New York
Apple picking in Upstate New York is a classic fall activity. It brings families and friends together. The crisp air and the harvest make it special. The Hudson Valley is famous for its apples.
Visit the Apple Orchards in the Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley has some of the best apple orchards. These places offer more than just picking apples. For example, Apple Dave’s Orchards in Warwick has been growing apples since 1950.
Barton Orchards in Poughquag covers 180 acres. It has hayrides, a petting zoo, a fun park, live music, and food. Cedar Heights Orchard in Rhinebeck has been family-owned for over 150 years.
Here’s a look at some top Hudson Valley orchards:
| Orchard | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Dave’s Orchards | Warwick | 130 acres, established in 1950 |
| Barton Orchards | Poughquag | 180 acres, hayrides, kids’ petting zoo, fun park, live music |
| Cedar Heights Orchard | Rhinebeck | Family-owned for over 150 years |
Enjoy Fresh Apple Cider and Donuts
After apple picking, fresh apple cider and donuts are perfect. These treats are often made on the orchard. Maskers Orchard in Warwick has 20,000 trees and 14 apple types.
Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh charges $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends. It offers a classic apple picking experience with fresh cider.
Plan your trip from mid-September to mid-October for the best experience. Local farmers’ markets, like in Saratoga Springs, run until October. They offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, making your trip even better.
Embrace Adventure in New Hampshire’s White Mountains
The White Mountains in New Hampshire call to adventure lovers with their stunning views and many activities. It’s a place where you can find peace and excitement. You can explore the famous Kancamagus Highway hikes and the unique Hobo Railroad.
Hike the Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway runs through the White Mountains, offering some of the best hikes in New England. There are hikes for everyone, from beginners to experts. For example, the Artist’s Bluff hike is easy and short, while the Lonesome Lake hike is more challenging but rewarding.
The Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park is a must-see. It’s a 9-mile path with granite walls and waterfalls. Fall is the busiest time here, with its beautiful colors.
Explore the Hobo Railroad
A trip on the historic Hobo Railroad is a must in the White Mountains. It’s a ride through beautiful landscapes, showing off New Hampshire’s beauty. The Mountaineer route is a 50-60 mile round trip, lasting 4.5 to 5 hours.
After your adventure, try Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill, NH. It’s been serving pancakes for over 75 years. Whether you’re hiking the Kancamagus Highway or exploring the Hobo Railroad, the White Mountains offer an amazing adventure.
Marvel at the Natural Beauty of Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. It boasts over 500 miles of hiking trails, inviting explorers to dive into its stunning scenery. Start your adventure with the Hawksbill Summit Trail, then try a nature scavenger hunt. End your day with stargazing, watching the stars light up the sky.
Take a Hike on the Hawksbill Summit Trail
The Hawksbill Summit hike offers views that take your breath away. It takes you to the park’s highest point, where you can see the Blue Ridge Mountains in all their glory. The trail is filled with beautiful plants and animals, making it fun for everyone.
Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt
A nature scavenger hunt is a great way to get close to nature. Shenandoah National Park is the perfect place for this, with its many plants, animals, and rocks to find. It’s a fun way to learn about the park’s rich ecosystem.
Enjoy Stargazing on Clear Fall Nights
Unwind with stargazing on clear fall nights. Shenandoah National Park’s dark skies are perfect for gazing at the stars. The crisp air of fall makes it an ideal time to see the stars up close. Whether you’re a stargazing newbie or a seasoned astronomer, it’s a magical experience.
Visit Historic Cemeteries for a Spooky Experience
October brings a spooky vibe to travel, especially in places like Savannah, Georgia. Walking through historic cemeteries is both eerie and educational. You’ll learn about local history and spooky tales. This is my favorite October bucket list idea.
Explore the Cemeteries in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s historic cemeteries offer a glimpse into its past. The Colonial Park Cemetery, from 1750, is a big draw on haunted tours. You’ll see ghost stories and old tombstones from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Bonaventure Cemetery is another must-see. It’s known for its statues and azaleas. It’s a place that has inspired many writers and filmmakers. Visiting here gives you a mix of spooky and southern gothic history.
Attend a Haunted History Tour
Join a Savannah haunted tour for a deep dive into the city’s spooky side. Tours visit cemeteries, mansions, and haunted spots at night. Oglethorpe Tours offers “Savannah Historic Haunts” for a closer look at the city’s legends.
The “Ghosts & Gravestones Tour” is another great choice. It’s a trolley tour that mixes Savannah’s haunted history with its beauty. These tours are full of spooky stories and local lore. You’ll also learn a lot about Savannah’s history and the people who shaped it.
Plan a Harvest Adventure in Pennsylvania
Planning a harvest adventure in Pennsylvania in autumn is a treat. You get to see the state’s rural charm and scenic views. Enjoy drives through scenic routes, visit quaint towns, and try local brews. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
Explore the Scenic Pennsylvania Route
Driving through Pennsylvania’s scenic routes is a must. You’ll see stunning fall foliage and the peaceful countryside. Don’t miss Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater and the town of Jim Thorpe.
Jim Thorpe hosts Fall Foliage Weekends in October. These weekends offer vibrant colors and rich history. Your harvest adventure will be unforgettable.
Visit the Straub Brewery in St. Mary’s
A trip to the Straub Brewery in St. Mary’s is essential. This historic brewery, founded in 1872, offers tours and tastings. You’ll learn about the brewing process and the heritage of their beers.
St. Mary’s is a charming town to visit. Enjoy a scenic drive there. Your trip will end with a taste of Pennsylvania’s brewing excellence.
Autumn in Pennsylvania is full of festivities. Don’t miss the National Apple Harvest Festival in Arendtsville and the Covered Bridge and Arts Festival in Bloomsburg. The Bedford Fall Foliage Festival is also a must-see. These events showcase the state’s culture and offer unique experiences.
October Bucket List Ideas: Final Thoughts
October is a time of vibrant experiences across the United States. From New England’s fall foliage to Oktoberfest celebrations, there’s much to explore. These seasonal highlights are sure to spark your travel dreams.
Experience the harvest season by visiting pumpkin patches or apple picking in Upstate New York. Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. These activities offer a chance to enjoy autumn’s colors and crisp air.
Vermont’s golden landscapes and Pennsylvania’s harvest festivals are just the start. California, with its varied climate, hosts events like the Big Fresno Fair and the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival. Yosemite National Park and the June Lake Loop are perfect for outdoor lovers, offering stunning leaf-peeping spots.
Exploring these autumn highlights can deepen your connection to nature. Let these tips help you plan an unforgettable fall trip. It will be filled with vibrant colors, unique experiences, and memories to last a lifetime.
