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. Whether you’re seeking beach destinations in fall, fall city breaks, or autumn mountain escapes, this season provides exceptional value for budget-conscious travelers looking to maximize their vacation dollars while experiencing destinations at their most pleasant and least crowded times of year.**
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.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Sunshine Without the Crowds
Average flight and hotel cost: $367
Soak up the sun in Fort Lauderdale ahead of peak-season holiday travels—and score great deals on airfare and lodging. Instead of colorful foliage and leaf-peeping, an autumnal escape here means uncrowded beaches, pleasant temperatures in the mid-80s, and a wealth of cultural programming and events, many of which are free.
Fall Events in Fort Lauderdale
These include the Riverwalk Fall Festival (Oct. 18), Pumpkins & Palm Trees (Oct. 29), and, most notably, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (Oct. 29-Nov. 2). Since it’s not high season, you likely won’t have trouble scoring reservations at popular spots like the Michelin-starred Chef’s Counter at MAASS, the swanky YOLO Restaurant located along buzzy Las Olas Boulevard, or the waterfront Casa Sensei.
The Florida fall weather provides ideal conditions for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor dining without the oppressive summer heat and humidity that characterize the state’s peak season.
Atlanta, Georgia: The City in a Forest
Average flight and hotel cost: $372
Atlanta might not be the first city that comes to mind for fall color, but it just might surprise you. Nicknamed the “City in a Forest,” Atlanta erupts in fiery shades of gold and crimson each October and November, with Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and the BeltLine offering great leaf-peeping.
Atlanta’s Cultural Attractions
Should you need a break from the outdoors, retreat to one of the city’s many museums and cultural institutions, including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (set to reopen in November following an expansion), the massive Georgia Aquarium, the quirky World of Coca-Cola, and the acclaimed High Museum of Art.
When hunger calls, make a beeline to one of the city’s food halls, including Ponce City Market, Politan Row at Colony Square, Krog Street Market, and Chattahoochee Food Works for a DIY food tour that showcases Atlanta’s diverse culinary scene.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Coastal Escape
Average flight and hotel cost: $381
With 60 miles of pristine shoreline, Myrtle Beach and the surrounding Grand Strand offer a seaside escape you can enjoy without the summer crowds. Beyond the beach—but not too far from it—family-friendly attractions like Broadway at the Beach and the SkyWheel keep the fun going, while the half-mile-long Murrells Inlet MarshWalk offers a stroll past lively seafood shacks, outdoor bars, and live music overlooking the salt marsh.
Golf and Nature Activities
Golfers will find championship courses such as TPC Myrtle Beach and Dunes Golf & Beach Club more relaxed this time of year, while nature lovers can wander coastal trails at Myrtle Beach State Park or spot migratory birds at Huntington Beach State Park.
The fall beach weather in the Carolinas strikes the perfect balance—warm enough for beach activities but comfortable enough for extended outdoor exploration without summer’s intense heat.
Tampa, Florida: Gulf Coast Charm
Average flight and hotel cost: $387
On Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa offers a unique mix of cosmopolitan charm and family-friendly beaches, with Clearwater and St. Pete just a short drive away. In Tampa proper, you can wander through eclectic neighborhoods like the historic Ybor City, where converted cigar factories now house breweries, coffee shops, and music venues, or swanky Hyde Park Village, a leafy district of cafés, boutiques, and shaded courtyards.
Tampa Fall Activities
Fall brings its own seasonal flavor too: pick pumpkins at the Village Circle patch in Hyde Park Village (through Oct. 31) or soak up small-town fair vibes at the Hillsborough County Fair (Oct. 30-Nov. 9). For Halloween vibes, Busch Gardens transforms with Halloween Harvest fun and the thrills of Howl-O-Scream.
Orlando, Florida: Theme Parks and Beyond
Average flight and hotel cost: $393
While Orlando is best known as the home of Walt Disney World and Universal, the city offers much more than its iconic theme parks—though they’re absolutely worth exploring in their own right.
Fall Theme Park Events
In fall, the parks dial up the magic with seasonal programming: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney (through Oct. 31), Halloween Horror Nights at Universal (through Nov. 2), and EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival (through Nov. 22) are just a few of the marquee events that make autumn one of the most exciting times to visit.
Beyond the Theme Parks
Venture outside the theme parks to explore downtown Orlando, which is teeming with eclectic galleries, colorful murals, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The city also surprises with plenty of free attractions, like strolling Lake Eola Park, exploring the Orlando Urban Trail, or catching live music at Dr. Phillips Center’s Seneff Arts Plaza.
Culinary connoisseurs will be impressed by Orlando’s Michelin-ranked dining scene, from Papa Llama, serving splurge-worthy Peruvian plates, to UniGirl in Mills Market, known for its wallet-friendly onigiri—Japanese rice balls wrapped in nori and filled with savory flavors.
Houston, Texas: Space City Fall Fun
Average flight and hotel cost: $399
Space City makes a splendid fall getaway, thanks to events like the nearby Texas Renaissance Festival (through Nov. 30), Día de los Muertos celebrations (Nov. 2), and, of course, plenty of football games and tailgates courtesy of the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium.
Houston Outdoor Attractions
When you’re ready to head outdoors, stroll or bike through Buffalo Bayou Park for sweeping skyline views or wander the trails at the Houston Arboretum for a refreshing break from the city’s bustle. Other free attractions abound, from the renowned Menil Collection to contemporary installations at Discovery Green.
Houston Dining Scene
And as one of the best food cities in the U.S., there’s something to satisfy every craving here, from Viet-Cajun fusion at Crawfish & Noodles to Southeast Asian-Latin American cuisine at Hawker Street Food Bar. And, of course, no trip to Space City would be complete without an afternoon at Space Center Houston.
Raleigh, North Carolina: City of Oaks
Average flight and hotel cost: $405
The “City of Oaks” comes alive in late October and November, when colorful foliage paints the city’s greenways, lakes, and parks in shades of red and gold. Admire the colors up close and personal in Umstead State Park or along the Neuse River Greenway before heading downtown, which is dotted with craft breweries like Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing and Brewery Bhavana, plus farm-to-table restaurants, such as Flour and Barrel for seasonal small plates and Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Ashley Christensen.
N.C. State Fair
Finally, no fall trip here is complete without a visit to the N.C. State Fair (Oct. 16-26), offering a mix of classic carnival attractions, concerts, and indulgent eats that captures the playful spirit of the season.
Denver, Colorado: Mile High City
Average flight and hotel cost: $408
At exactly one mile high—hence its nickname, “The Mile High City“—Denver is an outdoor playground that shines brightest in autumn. By late September, the aspen groves in and around the city turn luminous gold, making hikes at Mount Falcon, Red Rocks Park, or along the Cherry Creek Trail feel downright cinematic.
Denver Art Districts
Cooler nights call for cozying up in the city’s art-filled districts like the River North Art District (RiNo) or the Golden Triangle Creative District (GTCD). Alternatively, embark on day trips to nearby spots like the arty college town of Boulder, the adventure-filled city of Colorado Springs, or upscale Vail—all best enjoyed before the peak-season ski crowds arrive.
Why Fall is the Best Time for Budget Travel
Shoulder Season Advantages
The shoulder season provides multiple advantages beyond just cost savings. Cooler weather makes sightseeing more comfortable, particularly in typically hot destinations like Florida and Texas. Seasonal festivals add cultural richness unavailable during other times of year. The more relaxed pace means shorter lines at attractions, easier restaurant reservations, and more genuine interactions with locals who aren’t overwhelmed by tourist crowds.
Booking Strategies for Fall Travel
To maximize savings on last-minute trips, consider these strategies:
Flexible dates: Being flexible with your travel dates, even by a day or two, can significantly impact prices. Mid-week flights are typically cheaper than weekend departures.
Package deals: Booking flight and hotel together often yields better rates than purchasing separately. Many travel sites offer package discounts.
Loyalty programs: Fall shoulder season is an excellent time to maximize hotel and airline loyalty points, as award availability tends to be better than during peak seasons.
Last-minute deals: Hotels and airlines sometimes offer substantial discounts on unsold inventory as travel dates approach, though this strategy requires flexibility and carries some risk.
What Makes Each Destination Special in Fall
Beach Destinations
Fort Lauderdale, Myrtle Beach, and Tampa offer the unique appeal of beach vacations without summer’s oppressive heat and crowds. Water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming well into November, while air temperatures become ideal for beach walks, water sports, and outdoor dining.
City Destinations
Atlanta, Houston, Raleigh, and Orlando provide urban experiences enhanced by fall festivals, cultural events, and pleasant weather perfect for walking tours and outdoor activities. These cities combine affordability with diverse attractions appealing to various interests.
Mountain Destinations
Denver represents the category of mountain escapes where fall foliage becomes the star attraction. The dramatic color transformation of aspen trees against snow-capped peaks creates photogenic landscapes rivaling any autumn destination.
Planning Your Affordable Fall Getaway
How to Use This Data
The Kayak analysis provides a snapshot of costs during a specific search period. Actual prices you encounter may vary based on:
- Specific dates of travel
- Departure city
- How far in advance you book
- Day of week for travel
- Specific hotel and airline chosen
Use these figures as guidelines rather than guarantees, and compare multiple booking sources to find the best deals.
Additional Cost Considerations
Beyond airfare and lodging, budget for:
- Ground transportation (rental cars, rideshares, public transit)
- Dining expenses
- Attraction admission fees
- Activity costs
- Incidental expenses
Many destinations featured here offer substantial free attractions that help keep overall trip costs manageable.
Best Times Within Fall Season
Early fall (September-early October) typically offers warmer weather and extended daylight, ideal for outdoor activities. Late fall (late October-November) brings peak foliage in many areas and Halloween/Thanksgiving-themed events but cooler temperatures requiring layered clothing.
Making the Most of Shoulder Season Travel
The shoulder season represents the sweet spot for travelers seeking value without sacrificing experience quality. These eight destinations demonstrate that affordable travel doesn’t mean compromising on attractions, dining, or accommodations.
From the uncrowded beaches of Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach to the fall foliage surrounding Denver and Raleigh, from the theme park excitement of Orlando to the cultural richness of Atlanta and Houston, autumn offers something for every type of traveler at prices significantly lower than summer peak season.
The combination of lower average airfare, reduced hotel rates, pleasant weather, and seasonal festivals makes fall the ideal time for spontaneous getaways or carefully planned adventures. Whether you’re seeking beach escapes, city breaks, or mountain retreats, these destinations prove that affordable fall travel doesn’t require sacrificing quality or missing out on memorable experiences.
Discover more budget travel tips, seasonal destination guides, and money-saving strategies at The Inspiring Insight—where we help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing costs, proving that incredible adventures don’t require unlimited budgets.
