Best weekend destinations for October
As the leaves fall and take the temperatures with them, it’s the perfect time of year to plan a fall getaway.
The slower travel season between summer and winter breaks can bring with it special fall discounts and thinner crowds. For warm-weather destinations, October is a great time to travel when the temps are milder. And don’t forget seasonally themed vacations, from leaf-peeping to haunted houses to pumpkin patches.
Here are three of the best weekend destinations for October.
1. Santa Fe, N.M.
Santa Fe is interesting any time of year, with its rich culture, history and arts offerings, but fall is when New Mexico really shines. The weather is still nice, but downtown Santa Fe is not as busy as the summer. Late September is time for Santa Fe’s Wine & Chile Fiesta and the Harvest Festival, when visitors can stomp grapes to make wine, learn how to bake bread and make tortillas.
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2. Aspen, Colo.
Aspen is one of Colorado’s most esteemed ski resorts, but make it a priority to visit this mountain town before the snow hits. Have a romantic picnic in the stunning John Denver memorial park alongside the river, and plan a road trip up Independence Pass to see the glowing gold aspens. Although few visitors want to attempt this high pass in the winter, if it’s even open, it’s accessible in the fall. Make sure to stop and take pictures of the abandoned mining ghost town along the way.
Stay at the St. Regis Aspen, the town’s most incredible resort, with a five-star restaurant, award-winning spa and spacious rooms with cloud beds. Treat yourself by ordering the hotel’s signature bloody Mary up to your room, delivered by your own personal butler. Score the best possible deal on this luxurious lodging at Orbitz.com, paired with Cash Back from ShopAtHome.com.
3. Las Vegas, Nev.
Vegas in the fall is wonderful. The weather is cooler, the lines are shorter and the shows are just as fantastic. Vegas is great for a weekend getaway; much longer, and it gets too stimulating, anyway. In October, the Bellagio is home to the 2015 PBR World Finals for pro bull riders.
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