The term “vacation” is frequently associated with the summer months, but it is not the only time of year that calls for a break. In fact, if you need to take a vacation, the best time to plan it is in the fall, specifically November.
Many people, particularly parents, are looking for a relaxing break right now, and November is the ideal time for them to do so. Halloween celebrations have concluded, and the school year has begun.
Because of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend length, people considering taking a trip will frequently have a few days off from work or school, allowing them to go on an excursion in the late fall. Furthermore, it is rapidly approaching the busy holiday season. Are you ready to pack your bags but have no idea where you’re going?
Many people wish to escape the fall chill and explore warmer climates. Although milder weather may appeal to some, others believe that late autumn’s fresh, cool air makes a trip at this time of year even more appealing.
To meet your travel needs, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit in November, which includes everything from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the wintry landscapes of Northern Europe. These suggestions should be a source of inspiration for your journey, regardless of whether you choose to drive, take the train, or fly.
What’s the most exciting part? If you travel before Thanksgiving, you will have a better chance of finding affordable flights and accommodations, and many major destinations will be less crowded at this time of year. I recommend a beautiful place with the best all-inclusive resorts for families or a place to relax with the best wellness hotels and spas. Now is the time to pack your belongings, locate your passport, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
1. Scottsdale, Arizona
You won’t have to look far in Scottsdale, Arizona, to find crystal-clear skies to satisfy your cravings. Every year, this city receives an average of 330 sunny days, making it one of the sunniest in the world. Furthermore, November has pleasant weather for those seeking moderate temperatures, with highs averaging around 70 degrees and lows from the 50s to the 60s.
In the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which spans nearly 36,000 acres of untamed Sonoran Desert territory, these mild conditions are ideal for outdoor sports such as mountain biking, hiking, trail jogging, and even horseback riding. Other activities available in the preserve include: Visitors can even check off an activity that is frequently on travel bucket lists: riding in a hot air balloon.
In fact, sunset rides, unavailable during the summer, will be available again in November. Isn’t that a delicious reward? Oh, and if you thought the only places to have fun were on land or in the air, you were mistaken. Water-related activities are possible even in the middle of the desert. Travelers can reach a hidden sanctuary like Saguaro Lake or the Lower Salt River just a few minutes from the city center, where they can participate in kayaking, rafting, and stand-up paddleboarding.
2. Palm Springs, California
Are you California dreaming? Travel to Palm Springs and make your dream a reality. This expansive desert hideaway is ideal if you’ve been craving some “me time” by the pool. You can relax in style and go for a swim while taking in the breathtaking scenery, thanks to the abundance of chic hotels equipped with gleaming pools. The Saguaro Palm Springs, one of the city’s most well-known hotels, offers accommodations for less than $200 per night and has a pool ideal for unwinding after a long day.
While some people believe that spending time in Palm Springs relaxing in cozy cabanas is essential, this is not the only thing the city has to offer. Its ultra-saturated, candy-colored design makes it a popular hotel option, and it is, of course, a refuge worthy of being shared on Instagram. Going outside to enjoy nature is another option worth considering in November when there is little precipitation, low humidity, and warm temperatures.
Are you not willing to embark on an adventure by yourself? You are fortunate. Desert Adventures, for example, offers some informative guided excursions in and around Palm Springs. The tour guides know the desert’s history, ecosystem, and species. Hikers, equestrians, and nature lovers will find the Indian Canyons a paradise for outdoor recreation.
3. Nevada’s Las Vegas
It’s no surprise that Las Vegas attracts tens of millions of visitors each year, given the city’s incredible number of casinos, world-class entertainment, upscale restaurants, and thriving nightlife. Although this busy desert is a popular tourist destination all year, November is when things heat up.
Those who prefer to avoid summer temperatures of up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit should consider traveling near the end of the fall season. When it is at its normal height, the temperature never rises above 70 degrees. People who want to take a leisurely stroll down the Strip without desperately seeking shade from the heat may find this appealing because it allows for more outdoor exploration.
4. Vermont’s Burlington
If you believe that the natural world puts on the best show on the planet, then visiting Burlington in November is like getting a front-row seat to the show. Because of the stunning and brilliant fall foliage that can be found throughout the city, this city is a seasonal wonderland. In fact, woods cover three-quarters of the state, and it has the highest percentage of healthy maple trees of any state or territory in the country.
Vermont provides a wide range of harvesting activities, such as visiting massive orchards like the Interval Center or Adam’s Farm Market and picking your own fruits and vegetables. While the city is brimming with farmer’s markets and breathtaking autumn scenery, it also offers a variety of indoor family-friendly activities. Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear, Lake Champlain Chocolates, and Burton Snowboard factories for an educational and entertaining experience.
5. Orlando, Florida
Any visit to Orlando also referred to as the “theme park capital of the world,” must include a stop at the Walt Disney World Resort. Yes, this also applies to people who are not traveling with children. There’s a reason why Walt Disney World is a popular vacation destination for people of all ages: it has something for everyone! The most important thing to remember is…
Because the resort has four theme parks — Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom — it is an excellent destination for pleasing and entertaining almost every member of your group. The theme parks include thrilling attractions such as the recently opened Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster ride in World Discovery at Epcot. The parks also have impressive theatrical productions and a wide range of dining options, from quick and casual to exquisite fine dining.
Additionally, from now until November 19, guests can sample cuisine from all six “continents” at the resort’s International Food and Wine Festival, which is also held at Epcot. Furthermore, tourists should expect fewer crowds during this peak season because many people who plan to celebrate will wait until the preferred holiday season.
Orlando features bustling restaurants, nightlife, arts & culture, and shopping if theme parks aren’t your thing. Attend a performance at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts or an improv event at SAK Comedy Lab.
6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee is a welcoming city in the Midwest, and despite its reputation for cheese curds and beer, it has much more to offer. This neighboring city to the north of Chicago is brimming with artistic and cultural opportunities and award-winning dining establishments. People who live there would argue that the chilly climate contributes to the area’s allure, although November temperatures can be pretty cold.
This is the city’s first year with more than one James Beard Award semi-finalist. Visitors can dine at renowned restaurants such as Sanford, which offers a tasting menu with seven unexpected courses; ARIA, which serves artisanal cuisine inspired by the Midwest and is located on the hip and modern second-floor Saint-Kate: The Arts Hotel; and many others.
Milwaukee is brimming with hidden gems that are sure to pique your interest. The city is home to many festivals, including the International Holiday Folk Fair and the annual Train Fest, which is returning for the first time since 2019 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
7. Bangkok, Thailand
Visitors to Thailand’s capital will find the weather pleasant, with lower humidity levels now that the rainy season has ended. The city’s many excellent street meals, like Roti Gluay and fried rice, are sold by the city’s numerous vendors. Comfortable temperatures are ideal for visiting the city and eating these dishes. The Thai temples Wat Phra Sri Rattanasamaram and Wat Arun Ratchawararam are renowned for their magnificent architecture. Tourists can visit these temples to take in the stunning design after indulging in some delectable snacks that won’t break the bank.
Siam Square, located in the city’s heart, is a bustling shopping district with several reputable stores. Because of their high-end design and extensive amenities, guests from out of town frequently stay in luxury hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok or the Park Hyatt Bangkok.
8. Turks and Caicos Islands
In November, people from colder climates find it difficult to pass up the chance to visit beaches with white sand and warm, clear waters. As a result, many people from the Midwest and the East Coast travel to Turks and Caicos in search of relief. This tropical wonderland consists of forty distinct islands. Even if a wide range of accommodations is available in the desired price range, the Ocean Club Resorts on Grace Bay Beach are a safe bet.
The hotel recently completed renovations that included modernizing the finishing touches across its locations, including the on-site eateries. What’s the most exciting part? At each resort, guests can relax and unwind, making their time away from home even more enjoyable.
9. Paris, France
Even though visiting Paris is always a pleasure, November is one of the best months to visit. This month is ideal for taking in the city’s beautiful, one-of-a-kind sights and taking advantage of its world-class shopping because of the reduced crowds that will be present due to the upcoming holidays.
The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower are two of Paris’s most famous tourist attractions; once you’ve seen them, it’s time to explore some of the city’s lesser-known attractions. Ricki Stevenson’s Black Paris Tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about the significant contributions made by African-Americans to French culture. Visit the exciting Little Africa neighborhood and learn little-known facts about the history of Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States in the City of Lights.
10. Maui, Hawaii
Do you want to ride the waves and see some humpback whales during their annual migration? If that’s the case, Maui is the place to be. A trip to Hawaii’s second-largest island, known for its incredible sunrises and sunsets, world-famous beaches, and farm-to-table cuisine, is always enjoyable, but it’s delightful in November. Because it is not peak season, fewer people, lower prices, and the weather are more stable.
The destination offers its visitors the best of both worlds. Maui has more than 30 miles of beaches with sand ranging from white to black. Makena Beach State Park provides a variety of activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and swimming. Do you just want to sunbathe? That is another option. Furthermore, the hourglass-shaped island is home to two volcanoes, which guests can learn about and see on various educational tours, such as the Haleakala tours.
11. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
With their allure and tranquillity, the Berkshires are an ideal setting for a trip in November. The western part of Massachusetts is a popular east coast travel destination due to the attractive nature of its towns and villages. This rural region, about 120 miles west of Boston, is ideal for people who enjoy staying active because it provides fantastic opportunities to see the fall colors, water sports, and other outdoor activities.
Everyone is welcome to participate in the fun at a slower, more leisurely pace. Throughout the area, there are dozens of museums and cultural centers. Are you thirsty for some adult beverages? You are fortunate. Many wineries and breweries, such as Balderdash Cellars and Bright Ideas Brewing, are located in the Berkshires.
12. Seattle, Washington.
Most people think of Seattle, Starbucks, rainy weather, or a popular romantic comedy from the 1990s. However, this Pacific Northwest city has much more to offer. Although you must visit Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and other tourist attractions, you should not be afraid to explore the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
The Center for Wooden Boats will collaborate with the Pacific Rim Institute of Marine Artists (PRIMA) on an art exhibition called the PRIMA Marine Art Show, which will take place this fall. This exhibition will include up to 42 works of art by more than ten artists. The performance will take place between September 10 and December 27, 2022.
Book a night’s stay at the Salish Lodge and Spa to treat yourself to a relaxing holiday. The Tranquility massage, which can be enjoyed in the fireside couple’s suite for $185 for 50 minutes or $275 for 80 minutes for each guest, is designed to relieve tension and promote feelings of rejuvenation. Why not use this time away to pamper yourself? Furthermore, if you are planning a romantic getaway with your significant other, you should take the short drive to Snoqualmie Falls, which is located in the state’s east and has some of the most spectacular views of any state’s natural attractions.
13. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda are ideal starting points for exploring everything the West Indies offer. They are sandwiched between the Caribbean and Atlantic oceans. These sister islands are well-known for their reef-lined beaches, jungles, and luxury resorts such as The Verandah Resort & Spa. Visitors to the island can kite surf, scuba dive, fish, kayak, and even swim with stingrays.
The area’s exquisite pink and white beaches allow visitors to escape to a peaceful setting with friendly locals and fellow tourists. In other words, numerous water sports are available, making them appropriate for almost any aquatic interest. Please remember to bring your dancing shoes. Steelpan and live music can be heard in most island nightclubs and hangouts.
14. Reykjavik, Iceland
Even though the word “ice” is part of this Nordic island nation’s name, the climate is not as cold as expected. Compared to the harsh Midwest winters, November’s average high temperature of 40 degrees feels warm. As a result, don’t forget to bring your swimsuit. Swimming is, in fact, one of the most popular activities, and it can even be done in the winter because there are heated pools located throughout the city.
A trip to Iceland is a must because the country is brimming with natural wonders such as glaciers and ice-capped terrain at every turn. Small enough to go around and see everything. A lot can be seen. Tourists can take in the breathtaking scenery of frozen landscapes and keep their fingers crossed for a glimpse of the elusive and beautiful Northern Lights in this region, known as the Land of Fire and Ice.
15. New York City
A trip to New York is never a bad idea, and November is no exception. A trip to Gotham necessitates considerable curation and careful planning due to the city’s endless list of must-see sites for dining, shopping, and entertainment. To your relief, whatever you decide to do, you can be sure that it will be memorable.
There is something for everyone, especially children, in New York City, whether it’s indulging in a traditional hot dog before seeing the famous Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes at the illustrious Radio City Music Hall (beginning November 18), strolling through Central Park, or strolling along Museum Mile for world-renowned arts and culture exhibitions.
The New Victory Theater in Times Square will present Romeo and Juliet from November 11 to 20. This event is enjoyable and instructive for teens.
