We’ll always remember our trip to Zion National Park one November. After battling the summer crowds on a previous visit, we returned to search out the paths almost completely to ourselves. The air was crisp, the autumn colors were still holding on within the lower canyon, and the experience felt so far more personal and raw.
That trip reminded us that travelling within the shoulder season is usually the most effective method to really connect with a spot.
If you’re attempting to work out where to go within the USA before the chaos of the vacation season kicks in, November is your month. It’s a little bit of a sweet spot for travel. The summer crowds are long gone, and the winter rush hasn’t quite arrived yet, which may mean higher deals and more respiratory room.
We’ve road-tripped, hiked, and explored our way across the United States for years. Based on those experiences, we’ve put together this list of our favourite places to go to in November. Whether you’re on the lookout for a final dose of sunshine or a comfortable city break, this guide has you covered.
Quick List: Best Places to Visit in November within the USA
November is among the best months for a US trip, offering a sweet spot between autumn’s peak and the vacation rush. Here are a dozen of our top recommendations:
- Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert hiking & sunny patios
- Maui, Hawaii: Whale watching season & epic sunsets
- New York City, New York: Thanksgiving parade & pre-holiday buzz
- New Orleans, Louisiana: Jazz music & Creole cuisine without the humidity
- Zion National Park, Utah: Crowd-free canyon hikes & crisp air
- Asheville, North Carolina: Late autumn colors & Blue Ridge Mountain views
- Telluride, Colorado: Early snow & a quiet mountain town
- Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: Peaceful hikes & deep blue water
- Napa Valley, California: Cabernet season & cosy winery tours
- Savannah, Georgia: Historic squares & mild temperatures for strolling
- San Antonio, Texas: Historic missions & festive River Walk
- Palm Springs, California: Mid-century modern style & poolside rest
Why Travel to the USA in November?
November is certainly one of our favourite months for exploring the United States since it appears like you’re getting an inside scoop. It’s the definition of a shoulder season month.
The weather is usually still nice in lots of parts of the country, however the crowds are significantly smaller than in the summertime or the festive season. This can lead to raised prices on flights and accommodation, and also you get to experience popular spots without feeling rushed. It’s a incredible time to plan a road trip or a city break before the winter chill sets in.
Best Places to Visit in November for Warm Weather
If you’re trying to escape the autumn chill and find some sunshine before winter sets in, these are our go-to spots in November. The weather is good; warm enough for the beach or a hike, but without the extreme heat of the summer months.
1. Scottsdale, Arizona
We’ve hiked Camelback Mountain in the summertime, and trust me, doing it in November is a very different experience. We hit the trail early within the morning with just a lightweight jacket and felt energized by the crisp desert air, not drained by the warmth. That feeling of reaching the highest and searching out over the valley is what a visit to Scottsdale is all about.
Why Visit in November: The weather is just about perfect. Daily temperatures are comfortable for all the pieces from golfing and hiking to easily relaxing on a sunny patio. The city is alive but not overly crowded prefer it is in the course of the peak season.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike Camelback Mountain or explore the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
- Wander through the art galleries and shops in Old Town Scottsdale.
- Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and architectural school.
Where to Stay: Scottsdale has a fantastic range of places, from sprawling luxury resorts with golf courses to more intimate boutique hotels near Old Town.
2. Maui, Hawaii
One of our most memorable moments in Maui was sitting on the coast and seeing the primary humpback whales of the season breach in the space. November marks the start of their return to Hawaiian waters, and there’s an actual sense of pleasure within the air.
Why Visit in November: It’s the sweet spot before the height holiday crowds arrive. The official whale watching season kicks off, the weather is incredible, and you possibly can often find higher deals on flights and accommodation. Just do not forget that November is the beginning of the rainy season in Hawaii, so may need just a few showers.
Top Things to Do:
- Drive the enduring Road to Hana.
- Watch the sunrise from the highest of Haleakal? National Park.
- Take a ship tour to see the humpback whales.
- Relax on the sands of Ka’anapali Beach.
Where to Stay: For luxury, look to the resorts in Wailea. For a more laid-back, local vibe, try the town of Paia on the North Shore.
3. Key West, Florida
There’s a certain charm to Key West that’s hard to clarify. We loved ending our days at Mallory Square, watching the road performers and the incredible sunset over the water. It feels less such as you’re within the US and more such as you’ve escaped to a unusual Caribbean island.
Why Visit in November: The summer humidity has subsided, forsaking sunny weather and average temperatures of 21°C – 27°C are perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle. It’s a perfect time for snorkelling or diving because the water continues to be warm and hurricane season is over.
Top Things to Do:
- Walk down the energetic Duval Street.
- Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (and see the six-toed cats).
- Join the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.
- Take a day trip by ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park.
Where to Stay: We recommend finding a guesthouse or inn within the historic Old Town to be near the motion.
4. Death Valley National Park, California
Standing at Badwater Basin at sunrise is an experience that sticks with you. It’s the bottom point in North America, and within the cool morning air of November, the silence and scale of the salt flats are incredible. It’s a spot that’s largely inaccessible in the summertime, which makes visiting this time of 12 months feel special.
Why Visit in November: Safety and luxury. The dangerously high summer temperatures have dropped, making it prime time to explore the park’s famous landscapes in the course of the day. The clear, dry air also makes for a few of the most effective stargazing within the country.
Top Things to Do:
- See the salt flats at Badwater Basin.
- Watch the sunrise or sunset over the badlands from Zabriskie Point.
- Hike the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
- Stay up late for some unbelievable stargazing.
Where to Stay: Lodging is restricted, so book ahead. The Oasis at Death Valley offers a few options right contained in the park.
Best Places to Visit in November for City Breaks
November is a perfect time for a city break within the US. The weather is usually cool and crisp, perfect for walking, and also you get to see these places transform as they gear up for the vacation season.
5. New York City, New York
We once spent per week in New York in mid-November and it felt like we had the town during its best transition. The fall colours were still clinging to the trees in Central Park, but the primary holiday lights were starting to seem (you understand we love Christmas in NYC). There was a buzz within the air in regards to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but the extreme December crowds hadn’t arrived yet. It was the right balance.
Why Visit in November: This is your likelihood to see iconic holiday events with fewer crowds. The weather is cool and comfy for exploring different neighbourhoods on foot.
Top Things to Do:
- Watch the large balloons get inflated the night before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Go ice skating at Bryant Park’s Winter Village or at Rockefeller Center.
- See a Broadway show before the ticket prices climb for the vacations.
- Take a walk through a quieter Central Park.
Where to Stay: Midtown is convenient for first-timers who wish to be near Times Square and the theatre district. For a more neighbourhood feel, we love staying within the West Village.
6. New Orleans, Louisiana
Our favourite trips to New Orleans have been in the autumn. We have a fantastic memory of grabbing beignets and low and just wandering through the French Quarter for hours, listening to jazz musicians on street corners. You can’t do this comfortably in the summertime heat, but in November, the weather is excellent.
Why Visit in November: The oppressive heat and humidity of summer are gone. It’s the right time to explore the town’s historic architecture and cemeteries on foot. Plus, the town hosts unique events just like the Bayou Classic.
Top Things to Do:
- Listen to authentic live jazz on Frenchmen Street.
- Explore the architecture and history of the French Quarter.
- Ride the St. Charles Streetcar to the Garden District to see the grand homes.
- Indulge in the town’s famous Creole and Cajun food.
Where to Stay: Staying at a hotel with a balcony within the French Quarter is a classic New Orleans experience.
7. San Antonio, Texas
We took a night boat tour along the San Antonio River Walk just as they were putting up the vacation lights. Seeing the cypress trees draped in color, reflected within the water below, was magical. The city feels incredibly festive, but in a relaxed, Texan way.
Why Visit in November: The weather is mild and nice, which is good for strolling along the River Walk and exploring the town’s historic Spanish missions. The famous holiday lights display often begins the day after Thanksgiving.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the shops, restaurants, and public art along the River Walk.
- Visit The Alamo and the opposite 4 missions that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Browse the stalls on the Historic Market Square, the biggest Mexican market within the US.
Where to Stay: We recommend a hotel right on the River Walk to have the town’s fundamental attraction at your step.
8. Chicago, Illinois
There’s nothing quite just like the weekend before Thanksgiving in Chicago when the town officially kicks off the vacation season. We went for the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival one 12 months, and seeing Mickey Mouse lead the parade as they lit up 1,000,000 lights down the avenue was pure fun.
Why Visit in November: Chicago goes all-out to start the festive season. It’s cold, but the town’s energy will warm you up. It’s also a fantastic time to explore Chicago’s world-class indoor attractions.
Top Things to Do:
- Attend the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
- Shop on the Christkindlmarket, an open-air German Christmas market.
- Go ice skating on the ribbon at Maggie Daley Park.
- Spend a day exploring the Art Institute of Chicago or the Field Museum.
Where to Stay: The Loop or River North are central neighbourhoods that provide easy accessibility to a lot of the fundamental sights and transportation.
Best Places in November for Outdoor Adventure & Scenery
For those that wish to get out and explore, November offers some incredible opportunities. The trails are quieter, the temperatures are perfect for an extended hike, and the sunshine is usually softer, which is great for photography.
9. Zion National Park, Utah
As we mentioned, our November trip to Zion was a game-changer. We rented dry suits in Springdale and hiked a piece of The Narrows. Wading through the Virgin River with those massive canyon partitions towering above us, and with only a handful of other people in sight, was an unforgettable adventure. It’s a very different park without the summer crowds.
Why Visit in November: The intense summer heat is gone, making for perfect hiking conditions. The park is way quieter, and on weekdays, you possibly can often drive your individual automotive into Zion Canyon, which isn’t allowed during peak season.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike The Narrows (be sure you rent appropriate cold-water gear).
- Explore the Emerald Pools Trail.
- Drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and search for bighorn sheep.
- Hike The Watchman Trail for a fantastic view of the valley.
Where to Stay: The town of Springdale is positioned right on the park’s entrance and has loads of hotels and restaurants.
10. Asheville, North Carolina
We drove a piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway just outside of Asheville one November, pondering we had missed all the autumn foliage. But the lower elevations were still stuffed with color, with deep reds and golds clinging to the trees. The views over the mountains were hazy and exquisite. It proved that the scenery here is spectacular long after the height season ends.
Why Visit in November: You can often catch the last of the autumn color. The crisp mountain air is invigorating for hikes, and the town itself is a comfortable place to return to, with a incredible food scene and dozens of craft breweries.
Top Things to Do:
- Drive a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway (check for road closures).
- Hike within the Pisgah National Forest.
- Tour the Biltmore Estate, which is normally decorated for Christmas starting in early November.
- Explore the colourful downtown area’s shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Where to Stay: You can select from trendy hotels downtown or rent a secluded cabin within the nearby mountains for a real retreat.
11. Sedona, Arizona
We took certainly one of the famous Pink Jeep Tours on our last visit. Bouncing over the red rock trails was a blast, and our guide identified all different rock formations and vortex sites. Doing it in November meant we could benefit from the open-air vehicle without baking within the sun.
Why Visit in November: The weather is good for hiking and exploring the outside. The brilliant blue skies create a remarkable contrast with the deep red rocks, making for excellent photographs. The spiritual energy of the vortexes feels much more powerful within the quiet of the off-season.
Top Things to Do:
- Take a jeep tour to explore the backcountry.
- Hike the paths around Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock.
- Browse the unique shops and art galleries at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
- Watch the sunset from the Airport Mesa viewpoint.
Where to Stay: Many of Sedona’s resorts are built to mix in with the landscape and offer incredible views and spa services.
12. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley in November is a special kind of lovely. The grapevines, having done their work, are turning sensible shades of gold, orange, and deep red. We remember sitting in a quiet tasting room, savouring a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon while a hearth crackled in the fireside. It felt sophisticated and incredibly relaxing.
Why Visit in November: The valley is celebrating “Cabernet Season,” the right time to taste the region’s signature daring red wines. The fall scenery within the vineyards is gorgeous, and the wineries are far less crowded than in the course of the harvest season.
Top Things to Do:
- Go wine tasting with a deal with Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Take a hot-air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the colorful vineyards.
- Enjoy a gourmet meal at certainly one of the valley’s many Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Where to Stay: For a classic experience, book a room at a captivating inn or B&B in towns like St. Helena, Yountville, or Calistoga.
13. Telluride, Colorado
We visited Telluride once within the quiet window between fall hiking and peak ski season. We rode the free gondola up the mountain over a valley dusted with the early snow of the 12 months. The town was so peaceful, and searching down into that famous box canyon felt like we had a secret view all to ourselves before the winter crowds arrived.
Why Visit in November: You get to experience the calm before the storm of ski season, often at a lower cost. The ski resort sometimes opens on Thanksgiving weekend, offering among the earliest runs of the 12 months in North America.
Top Things to Do:
- Ride the free gondola between the town of Telluride and Mountain Village for incredible views.
- Walk along the historic, Victorian-era Main Street.
- Check for early-season skiing or snowboarding.
- Enjoy the quiet, cosy atmosphere within the local restaurants and bars.
Where to Stay: Choose between the historic inns within the town of Telluride or the fashionable, ski-in/ski-out hotels in Mountain Village.
14. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
We took a visit to Lake Tahoe in November and went for a hike around Emerald Bay. The air was crisp, the scent of pine was all over the place, and the lake was a shade of blue so deep it didn’t look real. With almost nobody else on the trail, it was one of the crucial peaceful and spectacular walks we’ve ever had.
Why Visit in November: It is the true quiet season. The summer and winter crowds are gone, making for a peaceful and relaxing visit. You can often find great deals on lodging, and the paths at lower elevations are perfect for hiking.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike the paths across the stunning Emerald Bay State Park.
- Drive the 72-mile scenic road that circles your entire lake.
- Explore the shops and restaurants in South Lake Tahoe or Tahoe City.
- See if the Heavenly Gondola is running for amazing views of the lake.
Where to Stay: For a comfortable trip, rent a cabin near the West Shore. For more motion and amenities, search for a hotel in South Lake Tahoe.
Best Places to Go in November for a Unique Experience
Sometimes you wish a visit that’s a bit of different. These destinations offer something special in November, from diving deep into American history to absorbing some mid-century modern style within the desert.
15. Plymouth, Massachusetts
Visiting Plymouth within the weeks leading as much as Thanksgiving is a strong experience. We walked the grounds of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums and saw the Mayflower II replica, and it really brought a latest depth to a story we’ve all heard. Standing there, you possibly can’t help but reflect on that slice of American history.
Why Visit in November: This is the setting for the unique Thanksgiving story, and visiting this month makes the history feel incredibly relevant and alive. The big summer crowds are gone, leaving a quiet, reflective atmosphere. October can be a fantastic month to go to.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, a living history museum.
- See Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II ship on the waterfront.
- Wander through the historic downtown and Burial Hill cemetery.
Where to Stay: Look for a historic inn or a hotel along the waterfront for the total New England experience.
16. Savannah, Georgia
We took a ghost tour on a cool November evening in Savannah, and the town’s atmosphere was perfect for it. With the Spanish moss hanging from the traditional oak trees and the gaslights flickering within the historic squares, the spooky stories felt entirely believable. Afterwards, we just walked for hours, having fun with the cool air.
Why Visit in November: The weather is good for exploring Savannah’s beautiful and walkable historic district. The oppressive summer humidity is a distant memory, and the town’s many squares are a delight to find on foot.
Top Things to Do:
- Walk through among the 22 historic squares, each with its own character.
- Tour a historic home, just like the Mercer Williams House from Midnight within the Garden of Good and Evil.
- Explore the shops and restaurants along the revitalized Broughton Street and River Street.
Where to Stay: We recommend booking a room in certainly one of the boutique hotels or historic inns positioned right within the Historic District.
17. Las Vegas, Nevada
Many people consider Vegas as just The Strip, but we love using it as a base for desert adventures. One November we rented a automotive and drove out to the Valley of Fire State Park. Exploring the incredible red rock formations within the mild weather was incredible, after which we returned to the energy and lights of the town at night. It’s the most effective of each worlds.
Why Visit in November: The desert heat has subsided, making it the right time to explore nearby natural wonders. Back in the town, you possibly can often find great deals on hotels and shows before the busy holiday season.
Top Things to Do:
- Take a day trip to hike in Valley of Fire State Park.
- See certainly one of the incredible Cirque du Soleil shows.
- Explore the wildly different themes of the hotels along The Strip.
- Visit the impressive Hoover Dam.
Where to Stay: For first-timers, staying mid-Strip gives you easy accessibility to the fundamental attractions.
18. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs just feels cool. We spent a weekend there simply appreciating the mid-century modern design, from the unique houses to the retro hotels. After a morning of exploring, we spent the afternoon just relaxing by the pool in the nice and cozy sun. It was an ideal, low-key getaway.
Why Visit in November: The weather is idyllic. It’s sunny and warm enough to lounge by the pool but comfortable enough for hiking or tennis. It’s the quintessential relaxing desert escape.
Top Things to Do:
- Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of the Coachella Valley.
- Hike the scenic trails within the Indian Canyons.
- Take a self-guided tour of the town’s famous mid-century modern architecture.
- Shop for vintage finds within the Uptown Design District.
Where to Stay: Treat yourself to a stay at certainly one of the town’s many restored mid-century modern hotels or boutique inns.
19. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is certainly one of America’s great walking cities. We loved grabbing a classic Philly cheesesteak at Reading Terminal Market after which walking it off by exploring the streets of the Old City. The history here feels so tangible, from Independence Hall to the cobblestone alleys.
Why Visit in November: The crisp fall weather is ideal for a history-heavy trip that requires numerous walking. The city also hosts the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade within the country, offering a novel holiday experience.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Independence National Historical Park to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Run up the “Rocky Steps” on the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
- Eat your way through the amazing Reading Terminal Market.
- Explore the charming, historic streets of the Old City.
Where to Stay: Center City or the Old City are the most effective bets for being inside walking distance of most major historical sites.
Tips for Travelling within the USA in November
- Check the Weather: The weather across the United States varies wildly in November. You could possibly be swimming in Florida or skiing in Colorado. Always check the precise forecast on your destination right before you permit.
- Pack in Layers: For most places, layers are your best friend. A t-shirt, a fleece, and a water-resistant or windproof jacket will cover you for many city breaks and outdoor adventures.
- Book Around Thanksgiving: November is mostly a shoulder season with good deals, however the week of Thanksgiving is a significant travel period. Book flights and accommodation well prematurely in case your trip falls over the vacation.
FAQ: Best Places to Visit within the US in November
For the warmest weather, you’ll wish to head south. Southern Florida (just like the Florida Keys), Hawaii, and desert destinations like Scottsdale and Palm Springs consistently offer probably the most sunshine and warmest temperatures in November.
Yes, it’s a superb time for a lot of parks, especially the desert parks within the Southwest like Zion, Death Valley, and Grand Canyon, where summer temperatures are extreme. However, in mountain parks like Yosemite or Glacier, many roads and services could also be closed because of snow.
You can go big by watching the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, or you possibly can go historical by visiting Plymouth, Massachusetts. Alternatively, many individuals use the long weekend for a quiet getaway to a national park or a soothing beach destination.
You’ll be catching the very tail end of the season, but you possibly can still find good fall color in lower elevations and more southerly states. Places like Asheville, North Carolina, Savannah, Georgia, and even Napa Valley in California can have beautiful foliage well into November.
Ready for a November Getaway?
November is a incredible and infrequently ignored month to explore the United States. With fewer crowds and a mixture of festive energy and off-season calm, it offers a novel likelihood to see among the country’s best spots in a special light.
So, where will you go?
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