Beyond Fall Foliage: 30+ Best Fall Break Ideas for Families This Year

From Coast to Coast: Fall Getaways Near You and Across the U.S.

As the leaves begin their magnificent transformation into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds, families across the United States eagerly await the arrival of fall—a season that brings not only a crisp chill to the air but also the promise of unforgettable adventures.

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In our quest to celebrate the beauty of autumn and the joy of togetherness, we present to you our annual guide to the best fall festivals, event destinations and fall vacation ideas that your family can explore.

Whether you plan to stay close to home, embark on an epic Midwest road trip, or take a family cruise, we’re partnered with MyFamilyTravels.com and TakingTheKids.com to bring you this guide that has family travel ideas for everyone.

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Best Places to Visit in the Fall

In this article, we left no leaf unturned in our search for the best fall vacations for families ensuring that there’s something for everyone in your brood. We invite you to embark on a journey that will take you from the quaint villages of New England, where the foliage paints a mesmerizing portrait of nature’s artistry, to the sun-kissed shores of the Pacific, where you can savor the last rays of summer.

Now Is a Great Time to Travel

We are living in challenging times. Issues such as work, education, the economy, the environment, politics, and global conflicts dominate local and national news cycles, creating a constant backdrop of concern. Perhaps that’s why 73% of Americans recently surveyed for the June 2024 Allianz Partners 16th Annual Vacation Confidence Index said they are in “desperate need” of a vacation. Fortunately, 63% of respondents did take a vacation within the last year, up six points from 2022. However, nearly half of the 47% of Americans who flagged that they can’t afford a vacation this year shared they are likely to travel regardless of their finances. Allianz Partners is calling the irresistible urge to get away the “justi-vacation.” Why not harvest the time to relax and renew this season?

Whatever your destination or your budget, consider an annual travel insurance policy to protect your travel investment. Travel insurance can cover meal and lodging costs during flight delays. Trip cancellation coverage may provide a refund of pre-paid, non-refundable trip deposits. Policies often include kids free of charge and may cover lost luggage, or times when an illness — including Covid — either prevents travel or strands travelers away from home. Allianz Partners USA provides a variety of travel insurance options through travel advisors, leading travel suppliers and directly to consumers. Choose a policy for your family, and you’ll have 15 days after purchase to review the terms and make sure it’s what you need for that next vacation.

Enjoy the Best Fall Festivals in the U.S

Make a seasonal harvest festival your destination this year. It’s the most affordable getaway because activities are almost always) free. Small cities and rural towns usually have inexpensive motel lodging, and featured foods are healthy and inexpensive. Live music performances and craft exhibits typically round out the fun. Go for the apples and cranberries, corn, livestock or pumpkins. Family members (21+) will enjoy the many autumn Oktoberfest celebrations. 

September Weekend Festivals:

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens (Dallas, Texas) puts together displays with 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash of every size. The popular Pumpkin Village celebrates Texas towns from Sept. 21-Nov. 3 with its own maze.

The Annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival is in Bardstown, KY Sept. 13-15 attracting thousands to celebrate the history and art of distilling America’s native spirit in the Bourbon Capital of the World. 

Euphoria in Greenville, South Carolina, Sept. 19-22, is one of the Southeast’s signature events. The annual four-day festival features exclusive tasting events, intimate musical experiences, cooking demonstrations, and wine seminars, as well as live concerts.

Elk Fest runs Sept. 28-29 in Estes Park, Colorado as a free festival that includes food, music, Native American traditions and bugling contests. Stick around through October (known as Elktober) to see elk frequenting downtown streets and parks. 

It’s all things cranberry in Warrens, Wisconsin, about 110 miles northwest of Madison. What’s billed as the world’s largest Cranberry Festival, Sept. 27-29, 2024. Try cranberry funnel cakes, tour a local cranberry marsh, buy local crafts (there are some 1,300 booths) and watch the parade.

October Festivals

October Weekend Festivals

Celebrate corn at Sever’s Fall Festival in Shakopee, Minnesota weekends Sept. 14-Oct. 27. Shakopee is just 35 miles south of Minneapolis and boasts one of the country’s original corn mazes along with a corn pit playground, straw sculptures, music and treats like funnel cakes, bratwurst and apples from the farm stand.

In the Midwest, Bayfield Apple Festival in Wisconsin (Oct. 4, 5 and 6) draws people from all over the Midwest to watch apple peeling and pie contests, among the activities.

Farther West, one of our top festival picks overruns Little Ketchum, Idaho Oct. 2-6, 2024. This rustic chic town of millionaires succumbs to cuteness during the five-day Trailing of the Sheep Festival. Celebrate sheep herding, a major industry in the state, as bands of sheep are moved from summer to winter pastures. Book ahead for the rancher talks, crafts and food fairs, sheepdog trials and much more.

For 62 years, California’s Half Moon Bay has called itself the World Pumpkin Capital. Celebrate all things pumpkin October 19-20 at the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival. Admire giant pumpkins, the world’s largest pumpkin carving and pie eating contests for kids (as well as adults).

Less than 15 miles south of Portland, Oregon, the small community of Tualatin draws crowds Oct. 19-20 for its 20th annual Pumpkin Festival featuring pumpkin bowling and golf, a costume contest and even a Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Watch participants (chosen by lottery) steer giant pumpkins through a water course with a single kayak paddle.

Discover A Magical European Fall with CroisiEurope

As autumn paints the world in vibrant colors, CroisiEurope invites you to enjoy the season’s splendor with its curated fall river cruises. It’s the perfect time to appreciate Europe’s stunning landscapes, with each itinerary designed for a relaxed and comfortable cruising experience.

Exclusive Offers

This season, CroisiEurope is featuring exclusive autumn offers that make exploring Europe’s rivers even more enticing. These special deals include discounted rates, complimentary excursions, and onboard perks designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of the Rhine, the charm of the Rhône, or the elegance of the Seine, these offers provide exceptional value.  

Top Fall Cruise Itineraries

1. The Rhine River: Cruise through the heart of Europe on the Rhine, where fall colors enhance the stunning scenery of medieval castles, vineyard-covered hills, and charming towns. Highlights include stops in picturesque cities like Strasbourg and Cologne, as well as excursions to renowned wine regions.
2. The Danube River: Experience the Danube’s majestic beauty as it flows through Central Europe at savings of up to 50% off.  From Vienna’s grand architecture to Budapest’s stunning nightscape, fall is a magical time to explore these cultural hubs and enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage along the riverbanks.

Dreaming of Christmas Magic – Start a new tradition

If you’ve got visions of sugar plums dancing in your head, CroisiEurope’s Christmas Market cruises provide a festive and unforgettable way to celebrate the season. These cruises glide through Europe’s most picturesque cities, renowned for their enchanting holiday markets. Imagine wandering through Strasbourg’s legendary Christkindelsmärik or Vienna’s beautifully adorned stalls, where you can shop for unique gifts, savor seasonal delicacies, and soak up the joyful atmosphere. Onboard, the festive spirit continues with holiday-themed décor, seasonal meals, and entertainment that brings warmth to the winter nights. CroisiEurope’s Christmas Market cruises offer the perfect blend of cultural exploration and seasonal cheer, all from the comfort of a river cruise, ensuring a memorable and joyous holiday experience.

If you’re traveling with multiple generations of your family, don’t forget about the Mulitgenerational Cruising Discount which can be applied to all Europe river cruises year-round.  

Fall is also the perfect time to plan ahead for your 2025 Europe river cruise.  CroisiEurope’s Early Booking discounts are in effect through September 30^th.  

Best Fall Family Getaways

Autumn means it’s peak leaf season somewhere, and our directory explains how that varies by region and year depending on the weather. You will see fall color in early September in some places and as late as November in other parts of the country. The kids won’t want to just look at the colors, however. You need to get out of the car, explore and collect some leaves. Ask how many different kinds of leaves they can find. How many colors do they see on a hike or bike ride? 

Head to the mountains for colors and festivals. Breckenridge, Colorado boasts some of North America’s earliest fall colors. Located at 9,600 ft. above sea level, the area’s splendid groves of aspen trees begin their annual transformation to brilliant gold in early September. Aspen’s famous Maroon Bells are also a gorgeous place to hike. From Albuquerque, NM Drive into the Sandia Mountains for the views of the yellowing Aspen trees. 

In Kentucky see the fall foliage at the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest with 16,140 acres of woodlands and 40 miles of trails.

All aboard the Hamilton County Harvest Train — this scenic train ride through the heart of Indiana showcases the vibrant fall foliage and picturesque landscapes. Running every weekend in October, the train departs from Forest Park in Noblesville and offers a unique way to experience the changing leaves

Experience all the fall colors along Indiana’s South Shore, a 30-minute drive from Chicago and home to the Indiana Dunes National Park. 

Owned by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, the Chief Standing Bear Trail is a crushed limestone rail-trail spanning 22.9 miles from Beatrice, NE to the Nebraska/Kansas border. The trail is best experienced in late September/early October when the air is cooler, and the foliage is in peak color. 

Tennessee installed the first ever colorblind viewfinders with innovative EnChroma lenses, designed to alleviate red-green colorblindness, at 15 locations across the state, allowing everyone to experience the magic of the leaves changing. See fall foliage by bicycle as Tennessee Tourism has just launched a new statewide road cycling program, BikeTN with 52 new curated cycling routes throughout the state. 

Read more about 15 Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Colorado with Your Family

Halloween Events Worth the Journey

Get ready to embrace the Halloween spirit! The spooky season starts early these days, with Halloween events kicking off in September. Whether you’re a fan of Halloween-themed festivals, theme park events, haunted houses, or even staying in a “haunted” hotel, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Rockhill Furnace, PA

All aboard for a different way to go pumpkin picking, along with some bonafide celebrities. All aboard PEANUTS The Great Pumpkin Patch on the historic Broad Top Railroad in Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania. Join Charlie Brown and Snoopy on the train ride behind a century-old steam engine as you pass through rolling hills, farms, and forests. Get ready for games like Pumpkin Bowling at the Sincere Pumpkin Patch. Read more about TakingtheKids’ hunt for the perfect pumpkin!

Salem, Massachusetts

Throughout October, Salem, Massachusetts, known as Witch City, celebrates its haunted happenings with costume parties, magic shows, movie nights, ghost tours, and even a Zombiewalk on October 1st that’s suitable for all ages. If you happen to be in Boston, you can take the Salem in a Day from Boston: The Legacy of Witches tour and delve into the history of the Salem Witch Trials, along with the various pop culture moments and filmings that have taken place in Salem.

Boo at Zoo Near You

Boo at the Zoo events take place all over the country, from the Denver Zoo to the Oklahoma City Zoo, among others. You can easily find a zoo or aquarium near you on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums website. Just like museums and theme parks, don’t forget to check online if you need to book reservations in advance.

Haunted Tours Near You

City Experiences offers a plethora of spooky and fun-filled tours perfect for Halloween travel, from California to Rome and beyond. Consider booking one of these haunted tours your me or you:

• Alcatraz Night Tour – San Francisco
• Crypts, Bones & Catacombs: An Underground Tour of Rome
• Ghost and Gravestones of Savannah Tour – Savannah, GA
• Haunts and Hauntings Tour – Honolulu, HI

Theme Park Fun

Major theme parks such as Disneyland and Disney World also host Halloween festivities, while Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood take over with their thrilling Halloween Horror Nights. Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Williamsburg, Virginia, offers scares for both kids and adults, and Six Flags Fright Fest combines kid-friendly scares during the day with grown-up frights at night.

For younger kids, LEGOLAND locations in New York, Florida, and California offer Brick or Treat trails, and Sesame Place in Pennsylvania hosts Count’s Halloween Spooktacular. Knott’s Berry Farm in California also provides family fun with Knott’s Scary Farm on select nights throughout October. Sea World Parks in San Diego, San Antonio, and Orlando offers Halloween Spooktacular events at its locations in California, Florida, and Texas.

Vibrant National Parks in the Fall

Explore the wonders of nearby state parks and make the most of what nature has to offer. DiscovertheForest.org provides a convenient directory of local parks, many of which are free to access.

Don’t forget to venture beyond the beaten path and discover hidden gems within the National Park Service, such as the majestic North Cascades National Park in Washington State, the breathtaking Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas, and the pristine beaches of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Searching for shells or sea glass on NC beaches is a fun activity for the whole family.

Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Another cool spot to witness the foliage in its full glory is Ozark National Forest in Arkansas. Located near Fayetteville, this forest offers some of the best outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes. Fall Foliage is at its peak here in October.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Visit Hot Springs, Arkansas and explore the thermal springs, take a tour of the baths, or enjoy a day at one of its many golf courses. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you drive around Lake Ouachita, hike to Whitaker Point for stunning views of Arkansas’s Ozark Mountains, and spend an afternoon fishing or canoeing in DeGray Lake.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

If you’re looking for an incredible fall experience, head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which spans over 500,000 acres in North Carolina and Tennessee. This park is home to an incredible array of fall colors, vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Note: All ages visit free on National Public Lands Day (September) and Veterans Day (November). Learn more about free admission days here.

Best Fall Family Vacation – East Coast

Boone, North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s High Country, Boone offers a picturesque fall getaway surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. As the temperatures cool and leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges and golds, this charming mountain town comes alive with autumn activities and events.

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” to fully immerse yourself in the fall foliage. Stop at overlooks like Thunder Hill or Grandview for breathtaking panoramas. Nearby Grandfather Mountain offers hiking trails with spectacular views, especially from the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Fall events abound in Boone and surrounding towns. Don’t miss the Valle Country Fair in nearby Valle Crucis (Oct. 19, 2024), featuring local crafts, food, and live music in a picturesque rural setting. The Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest (Oct. 7-8, 2024) offers a taste of Bavaria with German food, music, and dancing against a backdrop of autumn colors.

For family fun, visit local apple orchards like Grandad’s Apples in Hendersonville for apple picking, hay rides, and fresh cider donuts. The Hickory Ridge Living History Museum in Boone brings 18th-century Appalachian life to vivid reality with costumed interpreters and traditional craft demonstrations.

As night falls, cozy up by a fireplace in one of Boone’s charming cabin rentals or the newly renovated Rhodes Motor Lodge. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm, Boone offers the perfect autumn escape in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For more fall vacation ideas near me – Discover these 5 Cheap East Coast Road Trips to Take with the Family

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont is called “Fall’s Color Capital” where you can view the foliage whether biking, hiking, from a wagon or water trip. The top of Mt. Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont at 4,393 ft., is arguably the best spot for leaf peeping with its 360-degree view of all four seasons. Hike up to the summit and take a break in one of the many forests along the way to enjoy the spectacular colors.

Read more about Visiting Washington D.C. With Teens – Fun 4-Day Itinerary’s Not Focused on History

best fall vacations for families – Midwest

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs and the surrounding Ozark National Forest offer a breathtaking autumn escape. Peak color arrives in late October as the foliage glitters with hints of gold, vibrant reds and rust around this charming Victorian town.

Take a scenic drive through the winding roads of the Ozark National Forest, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular display of fall foliage. The Pig Trail Scenic Byway near Eureka Springs is particularly stunning, offering 19 miles of colorful vistas. 

As evening falls and Halloween approaches, brave visitors can explore one of America’s most haunted buildings – the iconic 1886 Crescent Hotel. Known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” it offers ghost tours year-round, but the experience becomes particularly spine-chilling during the fall season. The city’s annual Halloween events, including the Nightmare in the Ozarks Film Festival (Oct. 24, 2024) and the annual Zombie Invasion complete with Zombie Crawl Parade (Oct. 26, 2024), are not for the faint of heart but perfect for thrill-seekers looking to add some supernatural excitement to their autumn getaway.

With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, small-town charm, and ghostly legends, Eureka Springs and the Ozark National Forest offer an affordable autumn getaway that captures both the magic and the mystery of the season.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City comes alive with fall colors and festivities as the summer heat fades. The city’s numerous parks, including Myriad Botanical Gardens and Lake Hefner, offer picturesque spots for leaf peeping and enjoying the crisp autumn air.

Don’t miss the Oklahoma State Fair (Sept. 12-22, 2024) featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, and mouthwatering fair food. For a taste of local harvest, visit the Pumpkin Patch at Orr Family Farm, open weekends from late September through October. Kids will love picking their own pumpkins, navigating the corn maze, and taking hayrides. You can also reserve to spend the night in one of the canvas-covered wagons or teepees on site.

A must-see autumn attraction is Pumpkinville at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. This annual event transforms the Children’s Garden into a whimsical pumpkin village with thousands of pumpkins, gourds, and fall decorations. Families can enjoy pumpkin painting, crafts, and festive photo opportunities amidst the beautiful fall foliage.

Art lovers should plan a trip during October for the annual Plaza District Festival (Sept. 28, 2024), celebrating local artists, live music, and food trucks in OKC’s vibrant arts district. For a spooky twist, join the GHOULS! on the Plaza (Oct. 11, 2024) or book a stay at the allegedly haunted Skirvin Hilton Hotel.

Chicago, Illinois

Did you know Chicago, was voted Best Big City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers for a record-breaking seventh consecutive year? Fall is a great time to visit, especially after the Democratic National Convention reminds us of all the Windy City has to offer. Take a free tour with Chicago Greeters. Enjoy the amazing culinary scene (anyone watching “The Bear”?), the sports, architecture,  history and world-class museums.

Pick up a Chicago CityPASS for discounted entry to the Art Institute (famous for its Impressionism hall) , the Field Museum (see the famous T-Rex Sue!) and the Shedd Aquarium (don’t miss the Wild Reef) and more. The Chicago History Museum lets you time travel back to see how Chicago grew, while the Skydeck Observatory’s new museum showcases more of Chicago history.  Families who enjoyed “Twisters” will thrill to the tornado simulator at the Griffin Museum of Science and Nature. Navy Pier boasts the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Centennial Wheel, soaring to nearly 200 feet. (The Ferris Wheel debuted in Chicago at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893.)  

Before you head to  SKYDECK and The Ledge on the 103d floor of the Willis Center, take time at the Skydeck museum which highlights memorable Chicago events and offers great spaces for selfies. The Chicago History Museum is also a great bet to learn more about the Windy City’s History. Take the chance to visit other unique smaller museums. Want to try hot dog flavored ice cream at the Museum of Ice Cream?  

Stay at the Four Seasons with new amenities for kids including Sammy’s Adventure-Packed Passport and a dedicated Kids’ Room with snacks and play gear on Floor 32. The Royal Sonesta, among many Chicago family-welcoming hotels, is within a mile of many of Chicago’s top attractions. 

Best Fall Family Vacation – West Coast

San Diego, California

October brings the return of the 13th Annual Kids Free San Diego. Take advantage of the deals, free admission and added perks offered by San Diego hotels, restaurants, attractions, tours and transportation companies to kids 12 and under.

Take your pick of 18 major museums in Balboa Park with 1200 acres that locals say is San Diego’s backyard with gardens, hiking trails, and a miniature train. The entrance to the San Diego Zoo is here. Plus children aged 11 and under enjoy free admission to the San Diego Zoo, even during special events like the enchanting HalGLOWeen light shows and dance parties. Also see the panda pair, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, who just arrived from China this summer.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the more spectacular sights and attractions of downtown San Diego.

Dry off at Belmont Park, a historic midway in the heart of Mission Beach. The beachfront amusement park added Shipwreck Cove, a new ride and play area, plus a new tower ride that offers beautiful views as well as thrills. From Sept. 9-Oct. 31, the Belmont annual Fall Fest takes over the boardwalk with free trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, live music, festive fall treats, family craft workshops and face painting. 

Nearby at SeaWorld San Diego, strap into the Emperor, California’s tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster. In addition to kid-friendly rides like Tentacle Twirl and Aqua Scout, catch SeaWorld’s marine life exhibits and animal shows. Save up to 40% off tickets here.

There are lots of great restaurants in San Diego. Foodies who missed the early September Del Mar Food & Wine Festival should plan to attend the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival Nov. 2-10. After 19 years at the Embarcadero, it’s considered one of the country’s top wine festivals with food presentations, celebrity cooking classes, beer and spirit tastings and pop-up events. 

Save up to 40% off attraction admission prices when you bundle with the San Diego CityPASS.

San Francisco, California

Cable Cars…Alcatraz… World-class aquariums and museums. Parks and a food scene that will delight every foodie in the family. Take a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. Make sure to stop at the visitor center to learn how the bridge was built! 

Welcome to San Francisco, the City by the Bay, at its sunniest and least foggy during autumn. Be swept away by the free concerts given at the Flower Piano Festivals Sept 13-22 at the SF Botanical Garden or just let the kids practice on 12 pianos installed under the redwoods. September brings back the Portola Music Festival to Pier 80, and the yummy mooncakes served at Chinatown’s Autumn Moon Festival. The Haight-Ashbury Street Fair is Sept. 15 and Fleet Week (watch Air Force drills over the Golden Gate Bridge) takes place Oct. 7-15. 

Any time of year, save 45% on admission to San Francisco’s top attractions with San Francisco CityPASS. 

At the Aquarium of the Bay, you can walk through 300 feet of clear tunnels holding 700,000 gallons of Bay Water, see the river otters up close and commune with the sea lions outside. 

The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum that offers a unique way to celebrate Black culture with interactive activities. Check out the penguins. the four-story rainforest and coral reef ecosystem at the California Academy of Sciences.

Experience the Bountiful Flavors of Yakima Valley

Yakima Valley, located in the heart of Washington, proudly holds the title of the state’s agricultural capital. With over 3,100 farms, including a significant portion transitioning to organic practices, this region plays a vital role in the Pacific Northwest’s agricultural production. Notably, Yakima Valley contributes to more than 70% of the country’s hop acreage, making it a key player in the beer industry.

Situated approximately 150 miles or a scenic 2½-hour drive from Seattle, Yakima offers a more intimate and affordable experience. Country festivals, farm markets, craft breweries, and wineries await visitors, providing a delightful escape from the bustling city life.

Use our Washington State U-Pick Farm Guide to find a harvest of your own. Johnson Orchards, which has been recognized as one of USA Today’s Top 10 Apple Picking spots, offers the opportunity to harvest apples alongside their knowledgeable crew from September to December.

Recommended lodging – For a unique family stay, The Hotel Y offers modern, family-friendly rooms in the historic heart of Yakima. Kids will love their spacious outdoor pool and hot tub area, plus they have a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning.

Best Fall Family Vacation – Gulf States & Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas

Autumn brings a special magic to Fredericksburg, Texas, where German heritage meets Texas Hill Country hospitality. The season kicks off with the annual grape harvest, running through mid-September. This is a perfect time to visit Texas Wine Country, with Fredericksburg at its heart. Many wineries offer harvest tours and grape-stomping events, giving visitors a firsthand look at the winemaking process.

October ushers in Oktoberfest (Oct. 4-6, 2024). The town square transforms into a Bavarian village, complete with authentic German food, music, and, of course, plenty of beer. Join in traditional games like the barrel roll or test your strength in the stein hoist competition.

Wine enthusiasts will delight in the Texas Wine Month Trail throughout October. With over 50 wineries in the Hill Country, you can sip your way through the fall harvest, enjoying special tastings and events at participating vineyards.

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Autumn is a perfect time to visit Hattiesburg, Mississippi, especially if you’re considering attending the University of Southern Mississippi. The humid summer gives way to crisp fall air, making it ideal for exploring campus and the surrounding pine forests.

Plan your visit around Southern Miss football games to experience the excitement of game day. Tailgate with locals in the District, sample Mississippi barbecue, and cheer on the Golden Eagles at M.M. Roberts Stadium.

Nature lovers will want to experience the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile rails-to-trails path through piney woods ablaze with fall color. Bring bikes or rent them in town for a memorable family ride. If you stay at the Longleaf Piney Resort, guests can enjoy this tony home resort and complimentary bike rentals.

When scheduling any college tour, keep these tips in mind:

• Visit while classes are in session to get a true feel for campus life
• Sit in on a class in your intended major 
• Talk to current students about their experience
• Explore the surrounding town – you’ll spend 4 years here!
• Check out housing options, both on and off campus
• Schedule meetings with financial aid officers
• Research any special visit programs for prospective students

Hattiesburg makes a great base for exploring other parts of Mississippi in autumn. Take day trips to historic Natchez for antebellum homes dressed in fall finery, or head to the Gulf Coast to enjoy seafood festivals and milder beach weather. For more ideas, check out our guide to the 30 Best Family Activities to Experience in Mississippi

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