Contrary to what your Instagram feed may lead you to believe, you don’t actually have to leave the country for an awe-inducing vacation. And while summer may be the most popular time to travel, we’d argue that fall is the best season for planning a trip—especially in the United States. With the cooler, crisper air comes chunky sweaters, hot cider and feelings of nostalgia that have us all wanting to shop for new textbooks and pretend we’re heading back to school.
As the seasons change, travel costs take a dip, crowds start to thin in popular tourist destinations and the fall foliage makes any location more beautiful. Whether you’re looking for a classic fall family weekend of apple picking, cider donuts and hayrides, or a cozy, romantic destination to curl up by the fire, this list of the best fall vacations in the U.S. has you covered.