Vacations in the spring and summer are iconic for a reason, but there is something truly magnificent about travel in fall. Cooler temperatures bring fewer crowds, and the crisp air and changing leaves set the tone for adventure. Whether in search of colorful foliage or stunning scenery without all the buzz of other tourists, there are so many fantastic places to visit through autumn's peak in October in the USA.
Spending autumn in New England offers travelers the chance to soak in the ambiance of quaint towns while being surrounded by one of nature's most colorful displays. Places to visit in the fall on the East Coast include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Each state brings its own charms, from pleasant heritage railways to coastal towns and scenic byways, including the world-renowned Kancamagus Highway. Visitors can soak in fall's beautiful hues on lake cruises or from the comfortable seats of deluxe motorcoaches, each offering a fresh perspective on the scenery.
Places to travel in October and November also include destinations across America's West. Aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr, vacationers can head toward national parks, including Yellowstone and Yosemite, or venture out to California. Once in California, the Coast Starlight weaves up the state along the shore of the Pacific to present glamorous cities, wineries, mountains, and more. Fall trips may also stretch across the country, traveling from San Francisco in the West to Chicago in the Midwest or even further to New York in the East, aboard Amtrak trains. There are also autumn tours that highlight New Orleans and the beauty of the deep South. Of all vacations in the U.S., fall trips are perhaps the most unique of all with their wide range of offerings.
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The Grand Canyon is one of the world's top natural attractions. Visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World on this exciting rail adventure. Beginning in Chicago, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief bound for Flagstaff, Arizona, the gateway to the Canyon. Upon arriving in Flagstaff, catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for your journey to...
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Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour through Canyon Country. This tour has it all: amazing national parks, classic train journeys, and spectacular sightseeing and excursions. Your adventure begins in Chicago with a classic rail journey aboard the legendary California Zephyr to Grand Junction...
(113 reviews)Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this 9-day escorted adventure featuring national parks, historic rail journeys, and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction. View the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde national parks, before riding the...
(130 reviews)Behold the brilliance of nature's seasonal finale in New England this fall. For 6 days, find yourself surrounded by sights of gold, rust and crimson as you travel through leaf-peeping hotspots in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. Begin with time in Boston, where a guided tour acquaints you with the most historically significant sites of...
(119 reviews)The vibrant hues of autumn color the backdrop for this tour to some of New England's most historic and picturesque sites. This round-trip from Boston delves into popular East Coast locations like coastal Kennebunkport and Portland in Maine, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, and Newport in Rhode Island. Delight in excursions aboard two of...
(55 reviews)California is a land of possibilities, and this unforgettable tour displays some of its greatest offerings. Over eight days, soak up the modern and historic sides of San Francisco and travel into nature, where towering redwood trees surround us on the Redwood Forest Steam Train. We also admire the mountain and waterfall panoramas of Yosemite...
(72 reviews)Nature's majesty and American history abound on this journey through the Great Lakes shorelines, featuring Wisconsin and Michigan. Starting in Chicago, ride Amtrak to Milwaukee, before exploring the heritage and picture-perfect landscapes of Door County Peninsula. Next, venture through Michigan's Upper Peninsula and cross the Canadian border to...
(52 reviews)Discover the wonders of Niagara Falls on this 4-day rail adventure. Beginning and ending in New York City, travel aboard Amtrak's Maple Leaf for a full-day journey through upstate New York and into Ontario. Make the most of your two full days in Niagara Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds of the thundering falls and exploring the area's local...
(44 reviews)Before embarking on your 2,300 mile journey to San Francisco, take advantage of your time in Chicago by visiting the city's famed attractions such as the John Hancock Observation Deck, ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or window shop down The Magnificent Mile. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its several museums and the...
America's only luxury train, Canyon Spirit, is your chariot for this unforgettable rail adventure. Follow its new route from Salt Lake City, through the deserts of Moab, into the peaks surrounding Glenwood Springs, and finally, to Colorado's dynamic capital city, Denver. Enjoy time to explore Salt Lake City ahead of the journey and daylight-only...
On this new itinerary for 2026, experience scenic railways on an unforgettable tour of New England in the Fall. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this autumn tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Boston with time to explore its history and culture, then journey by boat to fascinating Salem. ...
(37 reviews)Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains: A region of scenic landscapes and iconic cities, and incredible sites that enrich the mind and the soul. During our time here, you will visit legendary sites, some of Tennessee and North Carolina's most beloved cities and one of the most grandiose homes in the country. Your journey begins in Music City, U.S...
Oct 20, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
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Oct 14, 2025 · By Rob Payne
Experience New England’s colorful fall foliage with Vacations by Rail’s great range of escorted tours, exploring the White Mountains, Cape Cod and Maine.
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Whether in America’s national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
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Witness the changing colors of the season like never before while embarking on these top experiences and excursions on our North American fall foliage tours.
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