With fall nearly over and winter just around the corner, I love that the shoulder month of November offers fewer crowds, less expensive prices, and cooler temperatures, but still some truly beautiful scenery. From famously cool cities to incredible national parks here is my choice for the best places to visit in November in the USA…
1. Telluride, Colorado – makes a fantastic November travel destination
Get to Telluride at the beginning of the ski season that starts in November if you want to beat the worst of the crowds. This jewel in Colorado’s crown is nestled in the San Juan mountains which makes it the ideal place for both downhill and cross-country skiing.
It usually snows for around 10 days, and 13.82 inches of snow is accumulated making it a great ski destination to visit in November. Those who don’t want to break a sweat can take the gondola journey from the town to the European-style mountain village that sits at the beginning of the Uncompahgre National Forest.
At the end of the day I would recommend unwinding with a beer from the Telluride Brewing Co, one of the biggest microbreweries in the whole of the United States.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 236 W Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Average temperature – 7 to -10 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Hit the slopes with some skiing and try to make first tracks down a freshly pisted run.
- Looking for something different to skiing, have a go at ice climbing to explore the gorgeous ice venues.
- Go on an adrenaline-pumping snowmobiling tour open to all ages and abilities.
2. New York – the best city to visit on the run-up to Christmas
We all know that New York City is magical at Christmas, whether it’s the incredible window dressings in the shops on Fifth Avenue or the festive decorations that make it even more vibrant than it was before.
November is the perfect time to soak up the atmosphere as there are so many iconic things happening in NYC this month, from the New York Marathon on the 1st to the famous ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center.
This makes November the fun before the chaotic month of December, with events galore including the New York Comedy Festival, the Radio City Rockettes Show, the Craft Beer Festival, and the unmissable Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. I would suggest you wrap up warm though!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10011
- Average temperature – 13 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Hop on a cruise along the beautiful Hudson River passing by some famous landmarks.
- Enjoy the magical experience of ice skating in the middle of this amazing city.
- Discover the incredible Winter Spectacular at Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
3. Kauai, Hawaii – for a warm and stunning vacation
The emerald-green island of Kauai is the fourth-largest in Hawaii and one of the best-loved. November is a great time for the weather (temperatures are still around 23 degrees in the day) and it’s a cheaper time for accommodation and flights.
I think it’s impossible not to love Kauai, and with beautiful coastlines, epic surfing opportunities, delectable local food, tranquil waterfalls, and red canyons, why would you want to share all this with other tourists during peak season?
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 4-484 Kuhio Highway Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746.
- Average temperature – 23 degrees
My must-do highlights
- See the island from a different perspective by taking a helicopter tour overlooking the beach landscape.
- Kayak around Hanalei Bay where you can also enjoy a delicious meal whilst watching the sunset.
- Fly through through the native forests on a zipline for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
4. Charleston, South Carolina – for a charming trip and a great place to spend Thanksgiving
If you’re wondering where to go in November for a couple’s break, I think Charleston is South Carolina’s most charming port city, known for romantic scenery, sunset boat rides in the ocean, beaches, luxury spas and bars, dreamy courtyards, and fascinating history.
The word is out about Charleston which has seen an influx of tourists over the last few years, so this makes November a great time to enjoy its relaxed vibe to yourself. It’s also a nice temperature during this month, around a still balmy 20 degrees, so you won’t get too hot while walking around.
Things to enjoy in Charleston include museums, galleries, beaches, boutique shops, rooftop bars, browsing the markets, kayaking, and outdoor concerts, and strolling in the parks. If you make the trip to the coast then I recommend looking out for the dolphins and manatees that pass by here!
Events to join in with in November include the Scottish Games, the Charleston Literary Festival, Harvest Festival, the South Carolina Underground Film Festival, the Festival of Lights, and the holiday markets start to mark the run-up to Christmas.
If you’re looking to spend Thanksgiving here several great restaurants are offering traditional meals and they also have many Thanksgiving celebrations too including the famous Turkey Day Run!
- North Charleston Visitor Center Address: 4975-B Centre Point Drive (800) 774-0006.
- Average temperature – 20 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Head over to scenic waterway at Shem Creek for a spot of paddle boarding.
- Cruise around in a PediCab bike taxi to get from one place to the next around the towns.
- Walk over the Ravenal Bridge which is located over the Cooper River offering gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor.
5. The Florida Keys – for a family-friendly warm beach destination
Avoid hurricanes, bad weather, and busy beaches by visiting the popular archipelago of the Florida Keys in November. Grab a canoe and explore the 113 islands, made from mud, mangroves, and sand, they are the ultimate way to get back to nature!
At this time of year, you won’t get too hot and temperatures can top 80 degrees making it very comfortable for sunbathing and swimming for a warm November beach vacation.
I love that the strips of land are the perfect place to create your adventure, to snorkel, sail, dive, paddle, or just watch the sunset over the ocean.
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 106240 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, +1 305-712-6596
- Average temperature – 26 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Experience a ride on The Conch Tour Train to learn about the history and culture of the island.
- Visit Hemmingway’s former home which has now been transformed into an interesting museum.
- Take a trip to Duval Street once the sun has gone down and the vibrant party scene.
6. Flagstaff, Arizona – it’s a great time to visit this popular city
The natural setting for the city of Flagstaff means it is stunning in November time when the trees start to change their color from green to red and purple.
As the weather is so cool and clear, and I think it’s the perfect time to view the ponderosa pine forest in all its glory. The surrounding scenery here in November takes on a special beauty of its own and temperatures range from around eleven degrees to minus five. The world-famous Grand Canyon is located an hour and a half drive away.
Flagstaff is a laid-back college city and I would suggest relaxing after a day hiking with tasty eateries, coffee shops, wine bars, and breweries serving craft beer.
- Visitors Center Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States
- Average temperature – 12 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Indulge in the epic amount of pretzels, bratwurst, and beer available during your stay.
- Climb up the hiking trails to capture the most stunning views.
- Soak up the gorgeous scenery that surrounds the area.
7. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina – for gorgeous scenery
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains of Carolina is a dream in the crisp air of November when the foliage turns shades of red, orange, and yellow. In November, the average high temperature is 48°F, and the average low temperature is 30°F. The Smokies make up 500,000 acres of Southern Appalachian range that peek out of the early mists just as the name suggests.
It’s not surprising that it’s the most visited park in the U.S., but I think this is a wonderful time to have it to yourself!
- Visitors Information – 1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517-8397
- Average temperature – 13 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Try out snowtubing, a fun winter activity in which anyone can take part.
- Indulge in the holiday spirit by attending the Festival of the Trees.
- Take a hike around the gorgeous nature filled with beautiful autumnal colors.
8. Death Valley National Park, California – a much safer month to explore this spot
While Death Valley can be famously hot enough to fry an egg in the summertime, temperatures become (almost) pleasant in November and average around 25 degrees in the day. Not only that, but you can expect clear skies to enjoy every inch of this stark yet alluring lunar landscape.
From sand dunes to volcanoes, giant boulders to canyons, I love that all kinds of geological drama can be found here. If you visit on Veterans Day in November, the entrance to the park is free.
- Visitors’ Centre Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328, United States
- Average temperature – 25 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Take a hike along Zabriskie Point Trail that leads to an Instagrammable viewpoint overlooking the landscape.
- Borrow some binoculars and visit the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to experience the magical stargazing skies.
- Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes where you will feel transported to the other side of the world.
9. Bayou Country, Louisiana – it’s a great time to explore this swampy paradise
The inspiration for the Creedence Clearwater Revival album of the same name, Bayou Country is the tranquil swampy area near New Orleans in Louisiana. Swamps and creeks are wonderful places to spot wildlife and November is prime time for watching the alligators here. I would also suggest looking out for the brown pelican which is the state’s national bird!
The first two weeks of November are dedicated to celebrating the bayou’s Lafourche heritage and National Louisiana Day is celebrated here on the 9th so you can take in the culture too. Temperatures average around 71 degrees and hotels are priced much lower in this season.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4484 LA-1, Raceland, LA 70394
- Average temperature – 25 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Partake in a different kind of river tour experience, go on a swamp tour surrounded by interesting scenery.
- Become involved in the heritage and National Louisiana Day celebrations.
- Wander around the beautiful nature and grand trees through the marked trails.
10. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah – explore this desert destination when the temperatures are cooler
I personally think one of the best national parks to visit in November, the stunning Capitol Reef National Park is located in the south-central Utah desert, filled with unexpected geology just waiting to be explored.
November sees cool yet dry weather and there are fewer crowds to share the incredible vistas. The average high temperature, in November, is 50°F.
This is true red rock country that surrounds a ‘wrinkle’ in the earth called Waterpocket Fold. While the park is named after the white sandstone domes that create the Capitol Reef, it’s also home to the Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and the monoliths of Cathedral Valley in the north.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Torrey, UT 84775, United States
- Average temperature – 10 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Check out some amazing hiking trails such as Hickman Bridge, Grand Wash, and Capitol Gorge Wash whilst the weather is a perfect temperature for it.
- Tour down the scenic drive or Highway 24 for some Insta-worthy shots and viewpoints.
- Find the wonderful petroglyphs to be amazed by these rock art figures.
11. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – makes a hip city break
While Pittsburgh might not be the most picturesque city, this Pennsylvania highlight has more than enough to charm a casual visitor in November time. The city comes alive during this period because as well as the beautiful autumn colors, there is a Light Up Night to celebrate the start of the Christmas season.
As Pittsburgh has so much history and culture, now is the perfect time to enjoy it by visiting tourist spots like the Maxo Vanka murals, the Bayernhof Museum, the Andy Warhol Museum, and Kentuck Knob at their least crowded. Temperatures average around a chilly 10 degrees though so I would suggest wrapping up warm!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
- Average temperature – 10 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Visit Schenley Park to take a walk for the beautiful autumn-colored scenery that fills the area.
- Stop by Dancing Gnome Brewery for a fun-filled night, delicious food, and mouth-watering brews.
- For those who love to learn about history, check out the Bayernhof Museum and discover the city’s past.
12. Gulf Shores, Alabama – for a warm beach destination
The city of Gulf Shores is ideally located on Alabama’s coastline and has so much to do, even for a relaxed day trip. Naturally, this means it gets expensive and crowded during the slightly stuffy summertime season, but it is positively balmy in November as temperatures are a very comfortable 22 degrees. It may not be hot enough to swim comfortably but it still allows you to get some beach time and take advantage of the cool sea breeze.
Gulf Shores also has all the family-friendly attractions of golfing, beaches, trails, and even a zipline to take you over the dunes. History lovers will love the 19th-century Fort Morgan on Mobile Bay.
I also think it’s a great place to let your hair down as the party is in swing here all year round. If you want to make it a holiday, then jump in the sea as the Gulf of Mexico is still lovely and warm in November. I would also recommend looking out for sea turtles when you’re in there!
- Visitors Center Address: 3459 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Average temperature – 22 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Discover the National Shrimp Festival and taste the delicious flavors of the fresh seafood.
- Play a round of mini golf for a fun and relaxed activity on a hot day.
- Ride the famous Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views overlooking the area.
13. Albuquerque, New Mexico – a cool city offering fun events
Home to much more than the spirit of Walter White, Albuquerque is an electric mix of urban life juxtaposed with the profound emptiness of the desert and the mountains.
While the heat can be overwhelming in summer, it’s much more comfortable in November (around 15 degrees in the day) and it’s a time when the whole city comes alive with celebrations on the cool evenings.
This month I would suggest taking your pick from the Albuquerque Tango Festival, Dia de los Muertos, the Doggie Dash and Dawdle pet carnival, the Scandinavian Festival, the craft festival, and the River of Lights at the botanical gardens. In my opinion, November is also a more favorable time to reenact iconic scenes from Breaking Bad, as the roads are less busy. For those who love hiking, it’s a lovely time to stroll the Paseo del Bosque trail.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 522 Romero St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, United States
- Average temperature – 15 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Find out what incredible events are being hosted and make sure to attend at least one of them.
- Take the Sandia Peak Tramway to travel up to the mountain tops for spectacular views.
- Visit the Old Town to embrace the wonderful culture.
14. Los Angeles, California – for a fun and glam city break
While Los Angeles is naturally one of the most famous and visited cities in the US, it’s a whole different place to discover once the camera-clicking throngs have left, which is why I think November is the time to come!
Out of all the U.S. cities, Los Angeles is one of the warmest in November (averaging around 23 degrees), and sun-worshippers can still sunbathe in the parks and beaches at this time of year.
It’s also a great time to dine al fresco in the balmy evenings when it’s quieter and there are more locals around to befriend. Outdoor lovers will still enjoy hiking in Griffith Park and the Santa Monica mountains and may even spot a celebrity along the way.
If your birthday falls in November Los Angeles is a great choice for a birthday vacation as there is no shortage of very cool bars, clubs, and restaurants to celebrate in!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 10707 N Temple Way, Los Angeles, CA 90024
- Average temperature – 23 degrees
My must-do highlights
- Take a walking tour around the city to explore the famous landmarks and Instgrammable spots.
- Go to a concert or sports event. There is always a show or game to check out.
- Hike to the well-known Hollywood sign where you can also view spectacular views overlooking LA.
15. Adirondack Mountains, New York State – perfect for a super cozy weekend getaway
The Adirondack Mountains are a massive range in northeastern New York. This impressive swathe of high peaks offers thousands of miles of trails to hike, with plenty of rivers to paddle along at the bottom of the valleys.
Once you’ve taken in Thanksgiving and the Christmas build-up in New York City, in my opinion, the mountains here are the perfect place to escape in November! I love this place!
Daytime temperatures can get a little chilly at highs of around 35 degrees (and can even snow) so wrap up warm but it’s a peaceful time to come and hire a cabin for a cozy and romantic weekend getaway watching night fall over this stunning wilderness.
- Visitor’s Center Address: I-87 N (Between Exits 17 &, 18, Queensbury, NY 12804
- Average temperature – 1 degree
My must-do highlights
- Choose a hiking trail out of the 46 peaks it is possible to reach, hitting higher than 4,000 feet in elevation.
- Spend some time out on the tranquil waters of Saranac Lake with some kayaking.
- For those looking for a thrilling activity, the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course will get your heart pumping.
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Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
Hotel Reviewing Experience – published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board, Canada Tourist Board, Eviivo, France.fr, Visitoostende.be, Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos.
I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, LA Weekly, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, Daily Express, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro. Winner of Travel Blog of the Year. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
