As the leaves turn to shades of amber and crimson, November offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the United States. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or cultural festivals, the U.S. has plenty of November travel options to fit every type of traveler. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to visit in November in the USA, along with why each destination is special this time of year.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: Why November is a Great Time to Travel in the USA 🍁✈️
Have you ever wanted to take a trip where you don’t have to deal with huge crowds, super hot weather, or expensive flights? If so, November is the perfect month for a getaway!
Unlike summer, when tourists fill up beaches and national parks, November is a quieter and cheaper time to explore the USA. Whether you love warm sunny beaches, colorful fall leaves, exciting cities, or peaceful nature – there’s a perfect place waiting for you.
1.1 Why Travel in November? 🤔
There are three big reasons why traveling in November is a great idea:
✅ Fewer Crowds: Many people travel during summer or the winter holidays. In November, you’ll have more space to explore!
✅ Better Prices: Flights and hotels are often cheaper than in peak season.
✅ Amazing Weather: Some places still feel like summer, while others have beautiful fall colors.
📊 Average November Travel Costs vs. Peak Season (Summer & Holidays):
| Expense | Summer (July-August) | November | December (Holidays) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Prices | $$$$ (Very High) | $$ (Lower) | $$$$$ (Super High) |
| Flight Costs | $$$$ (Expensive) | $$ (More Affordable) | $$$$$ (Most Expensive) |
| Crowd Levels | 🚶🚶🚶🚶 (Very Busy) | 🚶 (Less Crowded) | 🚶🚶🚶🚶🚶 (Extremely Busy) |
(Source: U.S. Travel Association & Skyscanner Flight Data)
💡 Tip: If you want to save money, try booking flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, when prices are usually lower!
1.2 What Type of Travel Are You Looking For? 🗺️
Not sure where to go? Here are some of the best types of November vacations in the USA:
🏝️ Warm Beach Getaway → Try Hawaii, Florida, or California for sunshine and ocean fun.
🍁 Fall Foliage & Nature → Head to Vermont, Tennessee, or North Carolina for amazing autumn colors.
🏙️ Exciting Cities & Festivals → Visit New Orleans, Chicago, or Santa Fe for culture and fun events.
⛰️ Outdoor Adventures → Explore Grand Canyon, Zion, or the Great Smoky Mountains for breathtaking views.
1.3 What You’ll Find in This Guide 📖
This article will help you find the best places to visit in November in the USA. You’ll discover:
🌞 The best warm-weather destinations.
🍂 Where to see beautiful fall colors.
🏙️ Cities with exciting events and festivals.
🌲 The top national parks to explore.
💰 Affordable vs. luxury travel options.
So, are you ready to plan an amazing trip? Pack your bags, and let’s explore the best places to visit in the USA this November! 🧳✈️
2. Travel Tips for Visiting the USA in November ✈️🍂
Planning a trip in November is exciting, but to make it truly stress-free and enjoyable, there are a few things you should know. From saving money on flights to packing the right clothes, these tips will help you have the best travel experience possible.
2.1 How to Find the Best Flight & Hotel Deals 💰🏨
One of the biggest perks of traveling in November is that flights and hotels are cheaper than during summer or the holiday season. However, prices can still rise around Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday of November), so booking early is important!
How to Get the Cheapest Flights:
✅ Book early – The best prices are available 6–8 weeks before your trip.
✅ Fly on weekdays – Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly.
✅ Use flight comparison websites – Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak help find the lowest fares.
✅ Try nearby airports – Sometimes flying into a smaller airport saves money compared to major hubs.
📊 Average Round-Trip Flight Prices for Popular November Destinations
| Destination | From East Coast (New York) | From West Coast (Los Angeles) |
|---|---|---|
| Orlando, Florida | $150 – $250 | $200 – $300 |
| Maui, Hawaii | $450 – $600 | $250 – $400 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $120 – $200 | $150 – $250 |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | $100 – $180 | $80 – $150 |
(Source: Google Flights & Skyscanner Data)
💡 Tip: If you’re flexible with dates, try using Google Flights’ “Flexible Dates” tool to see the cheapest travel days!
2.2 Packing Tips for Different Climates 🎒🧥
November weather in the USA can be warm and sunny in some places or cold and snowy in others. Here’s a quick guide to what you should pack based on your destination:
🌴 Warm Destinations (Florida, California, Hawaii, Arizona):
✔ Light clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses)
✔ Swimsuit & beachwear
✔ Sunscreen & sunglasses
✔ Comfortable sandals
🍁 Fall Foliage & City Travel (New York, Chicago, Asheville, Vermont):
✔ Light jacket or sweater
✔ Jeans & comfortable walking shoes
✔ Scarf, hat, and gloves (for chilly evenings)
✔ Umbrella (some cities can get rainy)
❄️ Cold & Snowy Destinations (Colorado, Montana, Alaska, Upstate New York):
✔ Warm coat & thermal layers
✔ Snow boots & thick socks
✔ Gloves, hat, and scarf
✔ Moisturizer (cold air can dry out skin)
💡 Tip: Always check the weather forecast before packing, especially if traveling to a place where temperatures change quickly!
2.3 Best Thanksgiving Events & Food Experiences 🦃🥧
If you’re traveling in the last week of November, you’ll experience Thanksgiving, one of the most important holidays in the USA! Here are some of the best places to enjoy Thanksgiving parades, food, and celebrations:
🏙️ Best Thanksgiving Parades:
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (New York City) – The most famous parade with giant balloons and performances.
- Chicago Thanksgiving Parade (Illinois) – A mix of marching bands, horses, and giant balloons.
- America’s Thanksgiving Parade (Detroit, Michigan) – One of the oldest Thanksgiving parades in the country.
🍽️ Best Places for a Traditional Thanksgiving Meal:
- Plymouth, Massachusetts – The birthplace of Thanksgiving, where you can experience a traditional 1600s-style feast.
- New Orleans, Louisiana – Enjoy a Southern-style Thanksgiving with Creole flavors.
- Williamsburg, Virginia – Colonial-style Thanksgiving in a historic setting.
💡 Tip: Many restaurants fill up quickly for Thanksgiving dinner, so make a reservation in advance if you want to dine out!
2.4 Best Times to Book Hotels for November Travel 🏨📅
Since November is a shoulder season, hotels are usually cheaper than in peak months, except during Thanksgiving week.
How to Find the Best Hotel Deals:
✅ Book 4–6 weeks in advance for the best rates.
✅ Stay in boutique hotels or Airbnbs instead of big resorts.
✅ Use hotel deal websites like Hotels.com, Booking.com, or Expedia for discounts.
✅ Consider all-inclusive resorts in warm destinations to save on food and activities.
📊 Average Nightly Hotel Prices for Popular November Travel Destinations
| Destination | Budget Hotels | Mid-Range Hotels | Luxury Hotels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando, Florida | $50 – $90 | $120 – $180 | $250+ |
| Maui, Hawaii | $100 – $150 | $200 – $300 | $500+ |
| New Orleans, LA | $70 – $110 | $150 – $220 | $350+ |
| Zion National Park | $60 – $100 | $130 – $200 | $300+ |
(Source: Expedia & Booking.com Price Data)
💡 Tip: If you’re staying in a national park or a small town, hotels can sell out early, so book in advance!
2.5 Final Travel Tips for a Stress-Free November Trip 🧳
✔ Check the weather forecast before packing – November weather can be unpredictable!
✔ Use a travel rewards credit card – Earn points for future trips while booking hotels & flights.
✔ Plan for shorter daylight hours – Days get shorter in November, so start sightseeing early.
✔ Be mindful of Thanksgiving traffic – Airports and highways are busiest the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
💡 Tip: If you’re flying the week of Thanksgiving, arrive at least 2–3 hours early to avoid long airport lines.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your November Adventure! 🌍
With these travel tips, you’ll have a smooth and unforgettable November getaway in the USA. Whether you’re heading to a warm beach, a charming fall town, or an exciting city, planning ahead will save you money, time, and stress.
Now that you know how to travel smart, let’s check out the best destinations to visit in November! ✈️🏞️
1. New York City, New York
November is one of the most magical months to visit New York City. The air is crisp, and the city begins to gear up for the holiday season. Here’s what makes NYC one of the top places to visit in November:
Must-See Events and Attractions:
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: One of the most iconic events of the month, attracting over 3.5 million spectators in person and more than 50 million on TV. The gigantic floats, performers, and marching bands make it a must-see.
- Fall Foliage in Central Park: By November, Central Park’s trees are ablaze with fall colors, creating the perfect backdrop for a stroll or a bike ride.
- Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: The iconic ice rink opens in early November, offering visitors a quintessential NYC experience.
Why November?
November marks the start of New York’s festive season, but it’s also less crowded than December. You can enjoy the city’s highlights without the hustle of peak holiday tourism.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. It’s also home to one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, making it a prime destination in November.
What to Do in Asheville:
- Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drive: Considered one of America’s most scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers sweeping views of mountains and valleys dotted with fall colors.
- Biltmore Estate: This historic mansion is beautifully decorated for the holidays starting in November. The estate’s gardens and grounds are also breathtaking in the fall.
- Hiking and Outdoor Activities: With temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, November is perfect for hiking trails like Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell.
Why November?
Asheville’s fall foliage lasts through early November, offering vibrant colors that you won’t find in many other parts of the U.S. this late in the season.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock landscapes are stunning year-round, but November offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Things to Do in Sedona:
- Hiking Trails: Trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge are at their best in November, with daytime temperatures hovering around 60°F to 70°F.
- Vortex Sites: Sedona is known for its spiritual vortex sites, which many visitors claim have healing and energy-boosting properties.
- Art and Culture: Sedona’s art galleries and cultural centers, including the Sedona Arts Center, offer plenty of indoor activities if you want a break from hiking.
Why November?
Sedona is cooler and less crowded in November, making it the ideal time to explore this desert oasis without the heat of the summer or the tourist surge of spring.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
With its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and Southern hospitality, Charleston is a delightful November destination. The city’s pleasant weather and rich history make it perfect for exploring on foot.
Top Charleston Attractions:
- Historic District Walking Tour: November’s cooler temperatures make walking tours through Charleston’s historic district much more enjoyable. Discover its well-preserved antebellum mansions and cobblestone streets.
- Plantations and Gardens: Many of Charleston’s historic plantations, such as Magnolia Plantation, have gardens that are still in bloom in November.
- Charleston Food and Wine: Don’t miss out on the city’s renowned food scene, which includes seafood, BBQ, and traditional Southern cuisine.
Why November?
With temperatures around 60°F, November offers the perfect weather for exploring Charleston’s outdoor attractions without the summer heat.
5. Maui, Hawaii
For those seeking a tropical getaway, November is one of the best times to visit Maui. You can avoid the holiday rush, enjoy pleasant weather, and experience some of the island’s top attractions.
Maui Highlights:
- Beaches: With water temperatures still warm, you can enjoy Maui’s beaches without the summer crowds.
- Road to Hana: This scenic drive takes you through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal views. November offers ideal weather for this journey.
- Whale Watching: November marks the start of whale watching season, where you can spot humpback whales off Maui’s coast.
Why November?
Maui in November offers a quieter, more relaxed experience than the busy winter and summer months. Plus, the weather is perfect for both beach days and outdoor adventures.
Best Travel Tips for November Trips
Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your November travels in the U.S.:
- Check for fall foliage peak times: If you’re hoping to catch the last of the fall colors, research the best times for foliage in each region, as it can vary.
- Pack layers: November weather can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Be sure to pack layers, especially if you’re heading to mountain destinations like Asheville.
- Book in advance for holiday weekends: Thanksgiving weekend can get busy, so book flights, accommodations, and popular attractions well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best place to visit in the USA in November for warm weather?
Maui, Hawaii, is one of the best destinations for warm weather in November. You can enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
2. Where can I see fall foliage in November in the USA?
Some of the best places to see fall foliage in November include Asheville, North Carolina, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the colors linger later into the season.
3. Is November a good time to visit New York City?
Yes, November is a great time to visit New York City, especially if you want to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and enjoy the fall foliage in Central Park.
4. What are the best outdoor destinations in the USA in November?
Sedona, Arizona, and Asheville, North Carolina, offer excellent hiking opportunities in November with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
5. Can I visit national parks in the USA in November?
Yes, many national parks, such as the Grand Canyon and Great Smoky Mountains, offer breathtaking scenery and are less crowded in November.
November offers a perfect blend of beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore some of the best destinations in the USA. From the vibrant city life of New York to the stunning red rocks of Sedona, there’s something for every type of traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable November adventure!
