Best Places to Travel in November USA

November in the USA offers a unique window of opportunity for travelers. As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to fade in some regions and the first dustings of snow appear in others, the crowds of summer and early fall dissipate, making way for a more relaxed and often more affordable travel experience. But with such diverse landscapes, how do you choose the best places to travel in November USA?

Whether you're yearning for sun-drenched beaches, crisp mountain air, a historical holiday celebration, or even the thrill of early ski season, November holds a destination perfect for your getaway. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options, ensuring your November vacation is unforgettable.

Escape the Chill: Warm Weather Getaways in November

For many, November signals the start of colder weather, prompting a desire to chase the sun. Thankfully, several regions across the USA offer delightfully mild to warm temperatures, making them ideal November travel destinations USA for those seeking a sunny escape.

Florida's Sunshine and Serenity

Florida consistently tops the list for warm November travel, with pleasant temperatures and reduced hurricane risk as the season winds down.

• Miami & The Florida Keys: With average highs around 79°F, Miami offers a vibrant city experience combined with beautiful beaches. November is perfect for exploring the Art Deco Historic District or enjoying water activities like snorkeling and swimming. The Florida Keys, including Key West, also provide warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds, ideal for boating and unwinding in a tropical setting.
• Everglades National Park: Just a short trip from Miami, November is an excellent time to visit the Everglades. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity mean fewer mosquitoes and ideal conditions for wildlife spotting and airboat tours.
• Pensacola & Gulf Shores, AL: On the Gulf Coast, places like Pensacola, Florida, and Gulf Shores, Alabama, still boast warm enough temperatures for swimming, with average highs in the 70s and less crowded beaches.

Arizona's Desert Oasis

The desert landscapes of Arizona offer a unique warm-weather retreat, with November bringing subdued heat and clear skies.

• Scottsdale & Phoenix: These cities are "snowbird" favorites for a reason. November provides perfect conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring Old Town Scottsdale's art galleries and boutiques.
• Sedona: Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona in November offers mild temperatures for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty without the intense summer heat.

California's Coastal Charm

Southern California maintains a comfortable climate throughout November, making its cities and beaches attractive.

• Los Angeles & San Diego: Enjoy sunny and mild weather, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, beaches, and vibrant neighborhoods. The off-season means more affordable accommodation and fewer crowds.
• Palm Springs: This desert resort city is balmy in November, with highs often reaching into the high 70s, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying the desert landscape.

Hawaiian Paradise

Hawaii remains a magical destination year-round, and November offers a sweet spot with mild weather and thinner crowds before the peak winter season.

• Maui & Kauai: While it marks the start of Hawaii's rainy season, you can still expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures (average highs around 84°F). It's an excellent time for exploring lush landscapes, hiking to waterfalls, and relaxing on paradise-like beaches.

Southern Comforts

Beyond Florida and Arizona, other Southern cities offer mild November weather and unique cultural experiences.

• New Orleans, Louisiana: The humid summer temperatures have receded, leaving a cool, autumn breeze. November is a great time to explore the city's historic charm, vibrant culture, and culinary scene.
• San Antonio & Austin, Texas: These Texas cities offer a blend of warm weather, rich history, and lively nightlife, with average highs in the low 70s.

Embrace the Autumn: Late Fall Foliage Destinations

While October is often synonymous with peak fall foliage, November still offers breathtaking displays in certain parts of the USA, especially at lower elevations or in regions where colors peak later. For those seeking stunning natural beauty, these are some of the best places to travel in November USA for vibrant leaves.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina: This iconic national park boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons, with colors lingering at lower elevations into mid-November. The thinning crowds make for peaceful scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway and invigorating hikes amidst the vibrant trees.
• Asheville, North Carolina: Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville is a perfect base to view colorful fall leaves, particularly in early November when many leaves reach their peak. Hiking trails like Mount Mitchell and Mount Pisgah offer spectacular views.
• Texas Hill Country: In Central Texas, trees burst with color a bit later than most of the country, often peaking in the first week of November. Lost Maples State Natural Area and Garner State Park are fantastic spots for fall hikes.
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Skyline Drive offers 105 miles of scenic byways to witness the brilliant colors of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Fall foliage can last through mid-November, depending on the year.
• Columbia River Gorge, Oregon: While chillier, November brings popping fall colors and flowing waterfalls, making for a stunning road trip through this national scenic area.
• Hope Valley, California: South of Lake Tahoe, this area features dense aspen groves that display gorgeous golds, oranges, and reds, typically peaking from mid-October to mid-November.
• Door County, Wisconsin: For a cozy fall experience, Door County offers peak beauty and fall vibes in late October to early November, with charming lakeside towns.

Holiday Cheer & City Breaks

November also marks the unofficial start of the holiday season, with many major cities transforming into festive wonderlands. These urban centers offer cultural experiences, iconic events, and a chance to get into the holiday spirit.

• New York City, New York: There's no place quite like NYC in November. The city transitions into the holiday season with crisp air, vibrant fall foliage in Central Park, and holiday window displays beginning to appear. The highlight is undoubtedly the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, followed by the opening of ice skating rinks like Rockefeller Center.
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Home to America's longest-running Thanksgiving Day Parade, Philadelphia offers a historic and festive atmosphere. Explore iconic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
• Williamsburg, Virginia: Step back in time for a colonial-style Thanksgiving. This living-history museum recreates 18th-century American life, offering traditional meals and historical re-enactments.
• Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers a charming, nature-filled Thanksgiving experience. The town also kicks off its Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade the day after Thanksgiving.
• Denver, Colorado: Denver combines outdoor adventures with cultural experiences. Enjoy lingering autumn colors in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park or explore vibrant neighborhoods, with festive events starting as the holidays approach.
• San Francisco, California: Surprisingly pleasant in November, San Francisco offers clear weather and a mild climate, perfect for strolling the city or cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge, all with fewer tourist crowds.

Hit the Slopes: Early Ski Season

For snow enthusiasts, November marks the exciting start of ski season in many parts of the USA, particularly in the Rockies and some East Coast resorts. While early season conditions can vary, it's a chance to hit the slopes before the peak holiday crowds.

• Colorado: Several Colorado resorts are among the first to open.
  • Arapahoe Basin & Keystone: Often open by early November, offering some of the earliest skiing opportunities.
  • Breckenridge & Copper Mountain: Typically open mid-month, with more terrain becoming available closer to Thanksgiving.
  • Wolf Creek Ski Area: Known for early season snowfall, Wolf Creek in southern Colorado often opens with significant natural snow.
• Utah:
  • Brighton & Solitude: These resorts often aim for early to mid-November openings, providing access to Utah's famous powder.
  • Park City Mountain Resort: Expected to open by late November, just in time for Thanksgiving.
• California:
  • Mammoth Mountain: Often one of the first California resorts to open, usually by mid-November.
  • Heavenly & Northstar California: These Lake Tahoe resorts typically open by late November.
• Wyoming:
  • Grand Targhee: Often among the first in Wyoming to open, with a projected opening in late November.
  • Jackson Hole: While its official opening might be later, the area offers early season activities and a cozy mountain town ambiance.
• Vermont:
  • Killington Resort & Sugarbush: On the East Coast, Killington is often the first to open, with others like Sugarbush following suit by late November.

Conclusion

November truly is a month of diverse travel possibilities across the United States. From the sun-drenched shores of Florida and Hawaii to the vibrant fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains, the festive beginnings in New York City, and the fresh powder of early ski season, there's a perfect destination for every type of traveler. By taking advantage of fewer crowds and often more favorable prices, you can craft a memorable and unique November vacation in the USA.

So, what kind of adventure are you dreaming of this November? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or explore our other guides for more travel inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is November a good time to travel in the USA?

Yes, November is an excellent time to travel in the USA. It's considered a "shoulder season" for many destinations, meaning you can often find fewer crowds and better deals on flights and accommodation compared to peak summer or holiday periods. The weather diversity also allows for a wide range of activities, from warm beach escapes to early winter sports.

Where is the warmest place in the USA in November?

The warmest places in the USA in November are typically found in the southern states. Hawaii (Honolulu, Maui, Kauai) consistently offers the highest temperatures, with highs often in the low to mid-80s. Other warm destinations include Florida (Miami, Key West, Sarasota), Arizona (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Palm Springs), and parts of Southern California (Los Angeles, San Diego).

Can you still see fall foliage in November in the USA?

Yes, you can still see beautiful fall foliage in November, particularly in the early part of the month and at lower elevations. Destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville (NC), the Texas Hill Country, and parts of Virginia's Shenandoah National Park often have lingering vibrant colors. Some areas in California and the Pacific Northwest also offer late-season leaf-peeping opportunities.

Is it cheaper to travel in November in the USA?

Generally, yes, November can be a more affordable month for travel in the USA. Many destinations experience lower demand between the peak fall foliage season of October and the busy holiday season of December. This often translates to better deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages, especially outside of the Thanksgiving week.