Fall Vacations: Best affordable travel destinations for 2024 in the USA

In the United States, fall is a lovely season for travel. It is an excellent time to go to new destinations without spending over budget when the summer heat decreases and colorful autumn comes throughout the natural surroundings. Fall 2024 provides plenty of options for saving money on vacation, whether you want to get involved in peaceful weekends, colorful forest trips, or beautiful fall celebrations.

The top budget-friendly travel destinations in the USA for fall 2024 are listed below, these places include both small villages and amazing national parks.  These cost-efficient places will give you ideas whether your interests are adventure, or relaxation.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nearby Airports: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

Why Asheville?

Asheville, a small city situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is celebrated for its growing arts environment, handmade beers, and gorgeous fall colors. The nearby mountains are covered in red, orange, and gold tones during the fall, providing a perfect atmosphere for outdoor activities and attractive journeys.

Affordable Activities

Blue Ridge Parkway: It is important to take some time to drive along this gorgeous road. There are several views to enjoy without spending a lot from your pocket during this full season.

Hiking: Visit Chimney Rock or Craggy Gardens for panoramic views. You can The Appalachian Mountains' amazing beauty can be experienced for free by a variety of nature walks.

Art Scene: Go to the River Arts District to watch regional artists in action. In the fall, there are many festivals as well as open studios, and many galleries allow free admission.

Best time to visit

The best time to see the autumn leaves is in late September or early November, making it one of the best places to go in the USA in October. For those planning a trip, it’s one of the best October vacation destinations in the USA.

Money-Saving Tip

To save money on a place to stay, book a room in a guesthouse or Airbnb operated by locals. Also, you can save money on rental car expenses by using Asheville's public transportation system. 

Salem, Massachusetts

Nearby Airports: Logan International Airport (BOS)

Why Salem?

Love history, mystery, and all things Halloween? Then Salem is your go-to destination for fall. Famous for the 1692 witch trials, Salem goes all out in October, with spooky events and eerie attractions.

Things to do on a budget

Salem Heritage Trail: Walk through Salem's historic streets on this self-guided tour. While enjoying in the cool fall air, you will find out the history of the town.

Salem Witch Museum: Immerse yourself in the town's rich, haunted history with a visit to the Witch Museum. It's affordable and well worth the visit.

Haunted Happenings: In Salem, a variety of scary festivals, ghost tours, and street performances happen in the month of October. A lot of events are free or cheap to attend.

Best Time to Visit 

While October is the peak season, visiting in late September or early November can save you money. It’s one of the best places to travel in the US in October and among the best US trips in October.

Money-Saving Tip

Make plans in advance for your visit! As Halloween comes closer, the accommodations become very costly. If you are flexible, there are cheaper hotels in surrounding cities like Peabody and Beverly.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

Nearby Airports: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville or Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)

Why the Smokies?

The Great Smoky Mountains provide some of the most amazing fall views in the U.S. The park entrance fee is free of charge! Mid-October is the time when the leaves turn colorful, and it is the perfect time of year for cheaper outdoor activities.

What to do for free or cheap:

Scenic Drives: Look into the Cades Cove Loop or Newfound Gap Road for amazing views of the fall leaves.

Hiking: There are paths for all levels, starting from beginner to difficult. Go visit Clingmans Dome or Alum Cave Path For a real fall experience. Fall is the best time of year to see black bears, elk, and deer walking around the park.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-October is when the fall color season peaks, making it one of the best places to go in the USA in October. The views are stunning until early November, so it's among the best places to visit in the USA in October.

Money-Saving Tip

Camping is an affordable way to stay overnight in the park. In addition, cheap motels and cabins can be found in nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Sedona, Arizona

Nearby Airports: Sedona Airport (SDX) or Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Why Sedona?

Sedona is a natural wonder, with a great red rock environment, a cooler climate, and fewer visitors in the fall. It is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors without spending huge money. 

Affordable things to do:

Hiking: Famous red rock paths in Sedona, that include Cathedral Rock and Devil's Bridge, provide amazing views and are free to visit.

Energy Vortexes: Sedona's energy vortex attractions bring a lot of tourists. There is no fee to visit these locations of natural beauty, which are believed to have spiritual qualities.

Star Gazing: Sedona is a famous International Dark Sky Community and provides excellent free stargazing experiences. 

Best Time to Visit

Late September or early November is ideal for hiking with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s one of the best places to travel in the US in October and offers a perfect autumn escape.

Money-Saving Tip

There are many affordable hotels and vacation rentals in Sedona. If it is possible, travel during the week to get better prices on hotels.

Door County, Wisconsin

Nearby Airports: Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) in Green Bay

Why Door County?

Door County is a peaceful, picturesque destination that’s perfect for fall. You will have an affordable fall trip with lots of outdoor activities, orchards, and lovely little towns.

Top Affordable Activities:

State Parks: There are many state parks in Door County with low entrance costs. Visit Newport State Park and Peninsula State Park for biking, hiking, and amazing views.

Apple Picking: Door County's orchards are open for apple picking in the fall. It's an affordable and fun way to enjoy the harvest season.

Fish Boils: Don’t miss the chance to attend a traditional fish boil. It’s a local culinary experience that’s easy on the wallet.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit for the fall colors is between late September and mid-October.

Money-Saving Tip

If you want to go for a very cheap stay, plan on camping at a state park or visiting in early October when attractions are less crowded.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Nearby Airports: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) or Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO)

Why Shenandoah?

Shenandoah National Park is an excellent fall destination for travelers from the East Coast. Shenandoah is known for its beautiful autumn color and mountain views and is a low-cost, enjoyable attraction.

Budget-Friendly Activities

Skyline Drive: This scenic drive through the park is a must-do in the fall. Your entry fee gives you access to stunning overlooks and hiking trails.

Hiking: With over 500 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone. The Old Rag Mountain hike is a favorite for those seeking adventure.

Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, and black bears as you hike or drive through the park.

Best Time to Visit

The fall colors peak in mid-October, making it one of the best October vacation destinations in the USA. Colors are visible from late September to early November, so it’s also among the best places to visit in the USA in October.

Money-Saving Tip

A more affordable accommodation alternative is to camp inside the park. On the other hand, search next towns like Front Royal or Luray for affordable hotels.

San Antonio, Texas

Nearby Airports: San Antonio International Airport (SAT)

Why San Antonio?

San Antonio is a busy city with an important historical background and plenty of low-cost or free things to do. Fall is a great time for traveling because it is cool and less crowded than summer.

Things to Do for Free or Cheap

The Alamo: Visiting this iconic historical site won’t cost you a penny, and it’s a must-see when in San Antonio.

River Walk: Stroll along the San Antonio River Walk and enjoy the fall air. The River Walk has many affordable restaurants and shops.

Brackenridge Park: This large park has gardens, picnic areas, and free walking paths.

Best time to visit

From September to November, you can enjoy warm temperatures and discounted accommodations. It’s one of the best places to visit in October in the USA and a great option for best US trips in October.

Money-saving tip

Visit the River Walk on foot to save money instead of taking riverboat tours. Consider booking a room near the city center for cheaper hotels.

Final tips for affordable fall travel

Book Early: Fall is an excellent time to travel, particularly as so many places are showing their beautiful fall environment. Use JetSaver to book your flights in advance and get the best flight deals before prices increase.

Travel Midweek: Midweek flights are usually cheaper, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. JetSaver provides midweek deals on flights from Monday to Thursday, which can help to get tickets at low prices for your fall holiday.

Look for Deals: Fall is the time when a lot of airlines provide great seasonal deals. Check JetSaver regularly for amazing deals on flights to popular fall destinations all over the United States. 

Be Flexible with Dates: If you are flexible with your travel dates, you can save a lot more. Use JetSaver's flexible date search option during your selected travel period to find the most affordable flights.

While this blog focuses on the best budget-friendly destinations for fall, if you’re planning ahead for weekend getaways, check out our list of 15 best budget weekend getaways for US Travelers. Explore these exciting spots for your quick escapes and get inspired for a variety of affordable adventures!

You can travel cheaply this season with a little planning and by taking the benefit of JetSaver's fall flight deals. JetSaver can help you go to a historic city during an autumn festival or to a national park for a beautiful autumn with such reasonable prices. Plan, book a midweek flight, and get ready to find wonderful fall travel places without going over budget. So pack your belongings and let JetSaver help you get a great deal on your fall travels!