15 Best Places to Visit in November in the USA

Wondering where to go this fall? November is a sweet spot for traveling in the US. You’ll find cooler weather in the desert, late-season foliage in the Pacific Northwest, and plenty of holiday events kicking off in big cities.

It’s also a great time to enjoy fewer crowds in popular spots before the busy winter season begins.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to visit in November in the USA. From sunny beach towns and epic national parks to lively cities full of festivals, you’ll have plenty of ideas for your next trip!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

Best Places to Visit in November in the USA

1. New York City, New York

⭐ Highlights: Thanksgiving Parade, ice rinks, early holiday markets
🌡️ Average temperature: 45–55°F (7–13°C)
✈️ Closest airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
🏨 Where to stay: MOXY NYC Times Square, Riu Plaza New York Times Square

New York City is one of the best places to visit in the USA in November if you want to kick off the holiday season without the heavy December crowds. Central Park still has fall colors, ice rinks are opening up, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes over the streets.

If you want to catch the parade, plan ahead. The best spots fill up quickly, so either get there really early or book a hotel or brunch along the route so you can watch without standing outside for hours.

Bryant Park’s Winter Village is perfect for skating and picking up treats, and Rockefeller Center’s rink is another classic stop once it’s open. On colder days, you can duck into the Met, MoMA, or explore cozy neighborhoods like SoHo and the West Village.

2. Maui, Hawaii

⭐ Highlights: Beaches, snorkeling, Road to Hana
🌡️ Average temperature: 70–82°F (21–28°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Kahului Airport (OGG)
🏨 Where to stay: Wailea Beach Resort, Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas

Maui is one of the best November vacations in the USA if you want warm weather and fewer crowds. The summer rush is over, and the holiday season hasn’t kicked in yet, so you’ll find popular spots like Wailea Beach and the Road to Hana a lot more relaxed.

This is also a great time to hike Haleakala National Park. The sunrise from the summit is unforgettable, but don’t forget to pack layers because it’s much colder up there than down on the beaches.

If you’re into snorkeling, Molokini Crater and Turtle Town are two of the best places to see sea turtles and tropical fish. November also marks the start of whale season, and while peak sightings happen in winter, you may spot some humpbacks offshore if you’re lucky.

Add in fresh Hawaiian food, waterfalls along the Hana Highway, and laid-back island vibes, and Maui makes a perfect November getaway.

3. San Francisco, California

⭐ Highlights: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, city views
🌡️ Average temperature: 50–64°F (10–18°C)
✈️ Closest airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
🏨 Where to stay: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf, Cow Hollow Inn and Suites

San Francisco is an underrated gem for a November getaway in the USA. The skies are usually clearer than in summer, the weather’s cool but comfortable, and the city feels more relaxed than it does during the holidays.

It’s a solid month for sightseeing. You can finally see the Golden Gate Bridge without all the fog, and Alcatraz tours are easier to book compared to peak season. Walk along Crissy Field or grab a coffee in the Marina and enjoy the waterfront views.

Neighborhoods like the Mission and Hayes Valley are fun to explore, especially with fewer tourists around. You can still spend a nice afternoon in Golden Gate Park or ride the cable cars without waiting in long lines.

If you’re into food, this is the time to take advantage of the city’s dining scene. You’ll find seasonal dishes popping up on menus and less competition for reservations.

4. Grand Canyon, Arizona

⭐ Highlights: South Rim views, hiking, fewer crowds
🌡️ Average temperature: 37–60°F (3–16°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)
🏨 Where to stay: Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites

The Grand Canyon might not be the first place that comes to mind for a fall getaway, but November is actually one of the best times to go.

The summer crowds are gone, and you’ll still have full access to the South Rim, including all the main viewpoints and shuttle routes. Weather-wise, it’s chilly in the mornings but pleasant during the day, especially for hiking.

Bright Angel Trail is great if you want something scenic and well-maintained, and even a short walk along South Kaibab gives you incredible views. Mather Point, Yaki Point, and Grandview Point are all worth a stop.

Hotels in and around the park are usually easier to book in November, and prices tend to be a bit lower than in peak months. Parking is less of a hassle too, which makes a big difference when you’re trying to catch sunrise or move between trailheads.

If you’re looking for November travel destinations in the US that offer iconic views, mild weather, and room to explore without the chaos, the Grand Canyon definitely delivers.

5. Key West, Florida

⭐ Highlights: Beaches, sunsets, lively town vibe
🌡️ Average temperature: 73–81°F (23–27°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Key West International Airport (EYW)
🏨 Where to stay: The Capitana Key West, Opal Key Resort & Marina

If you’re chasing warm weather in November without the chaos of summer or the holiday crowds, Key West is a great choice. The hurricane risk drops way off after October, but it’s still hot enough for beach days and pool lounging, and the skies are usually clear.

Duval Street is where most of the action happens with restaurants, bars, cute shops, and live music everywhere. For something more low-key, grab a bike and cruise through the historic neighborhoods, or head to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park for swimming and snorkeling.

Sunsets at Mallory Square are a whole thing, with street performers and a crowd every night!

You can also hop on a snorkeling or sailing tour if you’re feeling active, or just hang out by the water with a drink in hand. It’s a super easy destination to just relax and not overthink anything.

6. Las Vegas, Nevada

⭐ Highlights: Great weather, shows, day trips
🌡️ Average temperature: 48–70°F (9–21°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
🏨 Where to stay: The Cosmopolitan, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of the best places to visit in November in the USA if you’re looking for warm weather, entertainment, and easy trip planning.

The heat finally calms down, so walking the Strip is way more enjoyable, especially in the evenings when everything lights up.

It’s a great time to catch a show, hit the casino, or explore the city’s constantly growing food scene. November also brings fewer crowds than the December holidays, but the energy is still there.

For a more relaxing vibe, you can hang by the pool (many are still open) or visit one of the city’s many spas.

If you’re up for a day trip, Red Rock Canyon is less than 30 minutes away and perfect for hiking in cooler weather. Hoover Dam is also nearby, and some people even use Vegas as a base for a quick trip to the Grand Canyon.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

⭐ Highlights: Historic charm, food scene, mild weather
🌡️ Average temperature: 53–70°F (12–21°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS)
🏨 Where to stay: Francis Marion Hotel, Hotel Emeline

November is a great time to visit Charleston if you want to enjoy the city’s cobblestone streets, colorful historic homes, and amazing food without the summer heat or crowds.

The weather is comfortable enough for walking tours, patio dining, and even a beach stroll if you’re lucky with the temps.

Start with a wander through the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods. Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, and the Battery are all especially pretty this time of year, and you won’t have to dodge big tour groups.

For food, don’t miss out on Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup. Husk and Leon’s are popular, but there are so many good spots it’s hard to go wrong.

You can also check out the nearby plantations, like Magnolia or Middleton Place, which are peaceful in the fall and often still have some color on the trees. Bonus: November events like Charleston’s Food Film Festival or early holiday markets add even more to do.

If you’re looking for November travel destinations in the US with a relaxed pace and lots of charm, Charleston’s definitely worth adding to your list.

8. Sedona, Arizona

⭐ Highlights: Red rock hikes, mild weather, scenic drives
🌡️ Average temperature: 45–68°F (7–20°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
🏨 Where to stay: Hilton Vacation Club Sedona Summit, Wildflower Inn at Bell Rock

November hits the sweet spot in Sedona: not too hot, not too cold, and the crowds start to thin out. That means it’s easier to snag trailhead parking, restaurant reservations, and last-minute hotel deals.

This is a prime time for hiking. Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Bell Rock are all doable without worrying about overheating. If you’re not into long hikes, there are plenty of shorter scenic walks or easy overlooks right off the road. The Red Rock Scenic Byway is great for that, and so is Oak Creek Canyon.

In town, you’ll find everything from cozy coffee shops to crystal boutiques and art galleries. There’s definitely a spiritual side to Sedona, but you don’t need to be into vortexes to enjoy the energy here. For food, The Hudson has solid views, and Elote Café is a local favorite.

If you’re planning a November getaway in the USA and want a chill outdoor trip with unreal scenery, Sedona’s hard to beat.

9. San Diego, California

⭐ Highlights: Coastal walks, tacos, laid-back city vibes
🌡️ Average temperature: 55–72°F (13–22°C)
✈️ Closest airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
🏨 Where to stay: Horton Grand Hotel, Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark

San Diego is a solid pick if you’re craving sunshine in November but want to skip the Florida crowds or long flights to Hawaii. While the ocean’s a bit too chilly for swimming, the daytime weather is perfect for being outdoors.

This is a great time to explore the city’s beaches and cliffside walks. You can start your day in La Jolla watching sea lions, then head up to Torrey Pines for an easy hike with coastal views. Or take a bike ride along Mission Beach and grab fish tacos by the water.

It’s also a nice time to visit Balboa Park, where the museums, gardens, and Spanish-style architecture are easier to enjoy without the summer heat.

Downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter has tons of restaurants and bars, and you’ll still find a good mix of locals and visitors even in the off-season.

For a different perspective, take the ferry over to Coronado Island and walk along the beach with views back toward the city skyline.

10. New Orleans, Louisiana

⭐ Highlights: Music, festivals, food scene
🌡️ Average temperature: 53–72°F (12–22°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
🏨 Where to stay: Virgin Hotels New Orleans, Hotel St. Marie

If you want to experience New Orleans at its best without sweating through your shirt, November is the way to go.

The weather is super manageable, the city still feels lively, and it’s way easier to get into restaurants, bars, and music venues than during peak festival season.

Fall also brings some fun local events, like the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival and the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival.

You’ll eat well no matter what, but these are great excuses to sample even more of the city’s signature dishes. Grab a beignet from Café du Monde, catch a brass band playing on Frenchmen Street, or wander the French Quarter with a cocktail in hand.

You don’t need a packed itinerary here. Some of the best moments are just spent walking around, exploring garden-lined streets, popping into shops, or riding the streetcar through Uptown. Jackson Square, the historic cemeteries, and the jazz clubs of the Marigny are all worth a visit too.

New Orleans makes a great pick for a November getaway in the USA, especially if you want culture, music, and incredible food without the summer heat.

11. Big Sur, California

⭐ Highlights: Coastal views, hiking, scenic drives
🌡️ Average temperature: 48–65°F (9–18°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
🏨 Where to stay: Big Sur Lodge, Carmel Bay View Inn

November is an underrated time to explore Big Sur. The winding stretch of Highway 1 is quieter, parking at trailheads is actually doable, and you’ll get to soak in those dramatic cliffs and ocean views without constant traffic buzzing past.

There’s still plenty of daylight to hike through redwoods or watch the waves crash at spots like McWay Falls, Garrapata State Park, or Pfeiffer Beach. It’s also a great month to catch elephant seals on the coast or stop at scenic pull-offs without feeling rushed.

If you’re mapping out the best places to visit in November in the USA and want something that feels wild but easy to reach, this stretch of California coast checks all the boxes.

The weather can be crisp in the mornings, but it usually warms up enough for long walks and scenic picnics. Just bring layers and double-check road conditions since closures can happen with little notice.

Big Sur isn’t packed with shops and attractions, but that’s kind of the point. It’s all about slow travel, soaking in the views, and taking it easy.

12. Orlando, Florida

⭐ Highlights: Theme parks, Epcot Food & Wine Festival
🌡️ Average temperature: 60–79°F (16–26°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
🏨 Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Orlando in November is way more manageable than peak travel months. The weather is mild and comfortable, especially compared to the summer heat.

You’ll still get sunny days, but without the sweat and long lines. It’s one of the best times to visit if you’re planning a trip to Disney or Universal Studios!

If you’re into food, make sure to catch the Epcot Food & Wine Festival before it ends mid-month. It’s one of the park’s best annual events, with tasting booths from around the world, live music, and smaller crowds than usual.

Outside of the big-name parks, check out Winter Park for its farmers market, boat tours, and chill downtown area. For a nature fix, head to Wekiwa Springs or Rock Springs for kayaking and paddleboarding in crystal-clear water.

You can also explore the Milk District for local restaurants and breweries.

November also kicks off the first wave of holiday events, so you might catch early light shows or themed parades without the December crowds. If you’re looking for November vacation destinations in the USA that balance fun and good weather, Orlando’s an easy win.

13. Portland, Oregon

⭐ Highlights: Late fall foliage, cozy cafés, food scene
🌡️ Average temperature: 42–55°F (6–13°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Portland International Airport (PDX)
🏨 Where to stay: The Mark Spencer Hotel, Hotel Lucia

Portland doesn’t always get the fall credit it deserves, but November is a surprisingly great time to visit.

The city’s fall colors tend to peak later than most of the Northeast, so you can still catch golden leaves around the Japanese Garden, Forest Park, and along the Willamette River early in the month.

Yes, it’ll probably be raining, but that’s kind of the vibe. You can spend a few hours wandering around Powell’s Books, browse indie boutiques in the Pearl District, or warm up with a steaming bowl of ramen on SE Division.

If you’re into food trucks and local beer, Portland doesn’t slow down for the weather. Breweries are still buzzing, and most food pod areas have covered seating. The Portland Farmers Market at PSU also keeps going into November, perfect for snagging seasonal snacks and local goods.

For a quick day trip, head to the Columbia River Gorge for misty waterfalls or explore wine country in the Willamette Valley.

14. Savannah, Georgia

⭐ Highlights: Historic streets, ghost tours, mild weather
🌡️ Average temperature: 52–72°F (11–22°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
🏨 Where to stay: The Marshall House, Planters Inn on Reynolds Square

Savannah in November is laid-back and beautiful. The weather’s comfortably mild, which makes it a great time to explore the city on foot without the sticky summer heat or big holiday crowds.

You’ll want to spend most of your time outdoors, strolling through the tree-lined squares or relaxing in Forsyth Park. It’s also a good time to join one of the popular ghost tours, especially if you’re into spooky stories and old architecture.

During the day, walk through the Historic District and stop for coffee or lunch at one of the cute cafes or patios tucked between the mossy oak trees.

November usually brings a few local festivals, and it’s a solid month for foodies, too. From shrimp and grits to craft cocktails, the restaurant scene is strong and rarely too busy this time of year.

If you’re after a November vacation in the US that’s walkable, relaxing, and packed with character, Savannah checks all the boxes.

15. Death Valley, California

⭐ Highlights: Desert landscapes, stargazing, scenic drives
🌡️ Average temperature: 50–77°F (10–25°C)
✈️ Closest airport: Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
🏨 Where to stay: The Inn at Death Valley, The Ranch At Death Valley

November is hands down one of the best months to visit Death Valley. Daytime temperatures are finally manageable, so you can explore without worrying about the extreme heat that keeps most people away in summer.

This is the time to hit the famous spots like Zabriskie Point at sunrise, Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), and Dante’s View for sweeping desert views. You can also drive Artist’s Drive for colorful rock formations and take short hikes like Golden Canyon or Mosaic Canyon without melting.

Nights get cooler, but they’re perfect for stargazing. Death Valley is a certified Dark Sky Park, and the skies are insanely clear in the fall!

There aren’t many places to stay directly in the park, so book early if you want to stay at The Inn or the more budget-friendly Ranch at Death Valley. Otherwise, Panamint Springs or even a base in Beatty or Pahrump works.

For a unique November getaway in the USA with surreal views and next-level quiet, Death Valley is totally worth the trip.