6 Fall Travel Spots to Visit If You’re Still Clinging to Summer

For fall fanatics, the start of the season marks the beginning of a three-month binge on PSL-flavored everything (Starbucks’ new Teavana Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte, anyone?) and a constant parade of the best fall fashion.

But, alas, for summer-lovers, this transition is a not-so-highly anticipated one. If you crave the high temps and low stress of summer, here are six destination spots to visit in October to make you forget that people have already started putting pumpkins on their porches.

1. Austin, TX: Austin, in the heart of the Lone Star State, is hot and humid in the summer and (slightly) less hot and humid in the fall, making this the best season to visit. But the lineup of stuff to do in this city in October will have you forgetting your frizzy hair in no time. Experience live music from top-notch acts at Austin City Limits, adrenaline-fueled fun at the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and under-the-radar indie films at the Austin Film Festival.

2. Las Vegas, NV: Looking to do some summertime sinning this fall? Look no further than Las Vegas. The city’s blistering heat has mellowed out by mid-fall but not so much that you won’t be able to take advantage of the rooftop pools and outdoor dining. The desert climate makes for warm days and cool nights — perfect for The Strip.

3. New Orleans, LA: Attracting tourists with its colorful architecture, unique fare, and the always bustling Bourbon Street, New Orleans is busy year round. But the lull between the summer months and the holidays means October is the optimal time to go. Plus, the Beignet Festival is in October, and if an endless (and free!) assortment of powder-sugared perfection won’t convince you to make the trip, then nothing will.

4. Gulf Shores, AL: Skip the spring breakers, and head down south in the fall for some beach lazin’. Gulf Shores, which has in recent years become a destination spot for college kids, is, as a result, becoming increasingly overlooked for its rich history and natural beauty. Scenic hiking trails, delicious seafood stops, and miles of shoreline make this Alabama town a must-go.

5. Phoenix, AZ: The city’s 118-degree weather this June is enough to make even the most serious of sunbathers recoil, but the 80-degree weather typical of Phoenix in October we can do. Phoenix is a hot spot — literally and figuratively — for nature lovers, especially. Situated just a few hours from Oak Creek Canyon, Apache Trail, and the Grand Canyon, it allows for a trip that is the perfect combination of activity and relaxation.

6. Orlando, FL: For those of you still kids at heart, Orlando is the place to be in October, with attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Because this spot most commonly draws families, the start of school causes a drop in the number of tourists. Pair this with ideal weather, and you’ve got yourself a vacay. (Warning: In the case of some serious fall-phobia, all of the amusement parks do host Halloween-related events throughout the month.)

Any hot spots we didn’t hit on this list? Tweet us @BritandCo!

(Photos via Getty)