November is one of the most underrated months to travel in the U.S. As autumn fades into winter, the country transforms with fall colors in the south, early snow in the mountains, and fewer crowds just before the holiday rush. Whether you’re craving crisp mountain air, festive city vibes, or warm beaches before winter sets in, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 unforgettable places to visit in the USA in November.
1. Sedona, Arizona
Why go in November: Mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning red rock landscapes at their most photogenic.
November is the sweet spot in Sedona. The summer heat is long gone, and the desert trails are perfect for hiking. You’ll get golden cottonwoods lining Oak Creek and fewer tourists clogging the vortex sites and trailheads. Bonus: hotel rates are much better than during the December holidays.
Top Things to Do:
Hike Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge
Explore the art galleries in Tlaquepaque Arts Village
Enjoy stargazing – Sedona is a Dark Sky Community
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Why go in November: Peak foliage continues into early November and the mountain air is crisp and cozy.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a dream for anyone chasing fall colors late into the season. Plus, the city has a laid-back, artsy vibe with a booming food and craft beer scene.
Top Things to Do:
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for fall foliage
Tour the Biltmore Estate, especially beautiful before Christmas crowds
Explore local breweries like Wicked Weed or Burial Beer Co.
3. New York City, New York
Why go in November: The energy is high, the leaves are golden, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is iconic.
NYC in November is magical. The crisp air, holiday windows, and buzz around Thanksgiving kick off the season in the most New York way possible. Central Park is still showing off its fall colors in early November.
Top Things to Do:
Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live
Ice skate at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park
Explore museums like MoMA or The Met during chillier days
4. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Why go in November: Snow starts to fall, but you can still enjoy shoulder-season activities.
November is when Lake Tahoe transitions from fall to ski season. If you’re lucky, you might catch the first snowfalls while still enjoying some late-season hikes and lake views.
Top Things to Do:
Early-season skiing (if snow allows) at Heavenly or Northstar
Scenic drives along the lake with fewer cars
Hike Eagle Rock for panoramic views
5. Savannah, Georgia
Why go in November: Pleasant temperatures, rich history, and no sweltering summer heat.
Savannah in November is breezy and beautiful. The cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and historic homes feel even more enchanting in the fall. It’s a perfect time for walking tours without sweating through your shirt.
Top Things to Do:
Stroll through Forsyth Park
Take a haunted ghost tour
Visit the historic Bonaventure Cemetery
6. Maui, Hawaii
Why go in November: Quieter before holiday season, ideal weather, and shoulder-season deals.
If you’re chasing sunshine instead of snowflakes, Maui is a dream November escape. You’ll beat the winter crowds and still enjoy beautiful beach days and jungle adventures.
Top Things to Do:
Drive the Road to Hana
Snorkel at Molokini Crater
Watch sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Why go in November: Mild weather and authentic southern charm before the holiday rush.
Charleston is gorgeous year-round, but in November, it’s especially pleasant with warm days and cool nights. The city is less humid and not as crowded, perfect for exploring historic districts and waterfronts.
Top Things to Do:
Visit the Battery and Rainbow Row
Take a carriage tour through historic neighborhoods
Dine at local low-country restaurants (try shrimp & grits!)
8. Leavenworth, Washington
Why go in November: A Bavarian village straight out of a snow globe, pre-holiday magic included.
This small town in the Cascades goes all-in on Christmas charm starting in mid-November. Picture twinkling lights, alpine architecture, and snowy backdrops – no passport needed.
Top Things to Do:
Visit the Christkindlmarkt (usually held late November)
Sip glühwein at a festive beer garden
Hike or snowshoe nearby trails
9. Death Valley National Park, California
Why go in November: Comfortable temperatures and otherworldly landscapes.
November might be the best time to visit Death Valley. Summer’s scorching heat is gone, and you can actually explore the dunes, salt flats, and canyons without risking heatstroke.
Top Things to Do:
Watch sunrise at Zabriskie Point
Walk across Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America)
Hike Golden Canyon Trail
10. Chicago, Illinois
Why go in November: Festive events, fall colors, and early winter cityscapes.
Chicago doesn’t shut down when the temperature drops—it lights up. November is a festive time with events like the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Christkindlmarket starting mid-to-late month.
Top Things to Do:
Ice skate in Millennium Park
Catch a show at the Chicago Theatre
Warm up with deep-dish pizza or hot chocolate on Michigan Avenue
11. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Why go in November: Mild weather, rich Native American and Spanish heritage, and fewer tourists.
Santa Fe is a cultural gem tucked in the high desert. In November, you’ll find crisp air, vivid sunsets, and the cozy aroma of piñon wood burning in kiva fireplaces. It’s the perfect time to explore its historic streets, adobe architecture, and award-winning cuisine without the crowds of summer.
Top Things to Do:
Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Shop for handmade goods at the Palace of the Governors
Take a day trip to Bandelier National Monument
12. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Why go in November: Cool, dry weather ideal for hiking and stargazing in one of the most remote parks in the U.S.
November is one of the best months to explore Big Bend. The summer heat is gone, and the Chihuahuan Desert comes alive with golden light and dramatic sunsets. The remoteness of the park makes it one of the darkest places in the U.S. for stargazing.
Top Things to Do:
Hike the Lost Mine Trail or Santa Elena Canyon
Soak in the Rio Grande Hot Springs
Join a ranger-led star party or night hike
13. Williamsburg, Virginia
Why go in November: A charming blend of fall foliage, early holiday events, and American history.
Colonial Williamsburg is a peaceful and festive getaway in November. You’ll enjoy autumn leaves, cozy inns, and living history experiences without the peak-season crowds. Plus, nearby Busch Gardens kicks off its Christmas Town event in late November.
Top Things to Do:
Walk the historic Colonial Williamsburg streets
Tour Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Battlefield
Visit Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town for early holiday cheer
14. Flagstaff, Arizona
Why go in November: A high-elevation town with early snowfall, access to the Grand Canyon, and a cozy mountain vibe.
Flagstaff often gets its first snowfall in November, making it a great early winter destination. It’s also a great base for exploring northern Arizona — from Route 66 charm to the nearby Grand Canyon.
Top Things to Do:
Ride the Snowbowl scenic gondola (or ski, if open!)
Take a day trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
Explore the Lowell Observatory for stunning night skies
15. San Diego, California
Why go in November: Warm weather without summer crowds, plus fun local events like Día de los Muertos and the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.
San Diego in November offers a quieter, relaxed version of summer. It’s warm enough to enjoy the beach and still full of activity. From cultural events to seaside dining, it’s a laid-back fall escape that doesn’t feel like fall at all.
Top Things to Do:
Explore Balboa Park’s museums and gardens
Watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs or La Jolla Cove
Attend the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival (mid-November)
Final Tips for Traveling in November:
November is the perfect time to explore the U.S.—you’ll dodge peak crowds, catch nature at its best, and enjoy lower travel costs in many places. Whether you’re chasing snowy mountain towns, cozy southern cities, or a warm beach vacation, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting for you this month.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
