10 Affordable U.S. Destinations for a Last-minute Fall Getaway

"Fall is one of the most underrated times to travel, primarily because it coincides with the shoulder season-the transitional period between the peak summer crowds and the busy holiday rush. During this window, travelers can often find lower average airfare and hotel rates, along with the added perks of cooler weather, seasonal festivals, and a more relaxed pace. From sunny beaches and cultural city breaks to mountain towns framed by fall foliage, autumn offers plenty of affordable options for a spontaneous getaway."

"To determine the most affordable fall destinations for a last-minute trip, we tapped the pros at Kayak, who analyzed flight and hotel searches made between Sept. 16-30 for travel between Oct. 1-Nov. 15. Flight prices reflect average round-trip economy fares from U.S. airports, while hotel prices reflect the average nightly rate for a standard double room. The list was then narrowed down to destinations with the lowest average combined flight and hotel costs; however, prices are subject to change, and savings cannot be guaranteed."

Fall aligns with the shoulder season between summer crowds and holiday travel, producing lower average airfare and hotel rates and offering cooler weather, seasonal festivals, and a more relaxed pace. Destinations range from sunny beaches and cultural city breaks to mountain towns with fall foliage, creating affordable options for spontaneous getaways. Kayak analyzed flight and hotel searches conducted Sept. 16–30 for travel Oct. 1–Nov. 15. Flight prices represent average round-trip economy fares from U.S. airports; hotel prices represent average nightly rates for standard double rooms. The ranked list focused on destinations with the lowest combined flight and hotel costs, though prices can change and savings cannot be guaranteed.

Read at Travel + Leisure