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10 Amazing Budget-Friendly Fall Travel Destinations for Families

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Feeling blue that summer is over? Now’s the time to take advantage of deals at popular fall travel destinations!
This fall travel destinations post was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.

Fall is the perfect time to get out of town and explore new places. But if you’re worried about the cost, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are these amazing budget-friendly fall travel destinations for the entire family.

These are all perfect for October vacations in the US or Canada, so you’ll have plenty of time to plan your trip before winter sets in. You’ll also find that during early fall, fewer crowds and cheaper hotel rates make these destinations more appealing.

Whether you’re looking for an urban adventure or outdoor fun, these destinations will keep everyone entertained while still within your budget. Plus, the pleasant weather and fall ushers in the perfect time for outdoor activities.

You don’t have to spend your whole paycheck on a vacation. Check out these amazing places that won’t break your budget. These are perfect for families who want an affordable October vacation with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. You can even score some fall trips at more affordable destinations.

These are perfect for fall break from school. And these fall vacations should be on everyone’s bucket list.

I’ve done a ton of research (and asked friends), and here are 10 of the cheapest places to travel during the fall!

10 Fall Travel Destinations That Won’t Break the Bank

So, which areas in the U.S. can you spend a fall vacation in where you would not have to spend a lot of money? Take a look at this top 10 Fall travel destinations list: 

1. ALASKA

Many people count Alaska out, but Anchorage is an excellent place to visit during the fall season.

Alaska is one of the fall travel destinations you probably aren't thinking about. Image of a cruise ship port in Juneau.
Cruise ship in the port of Juneau, Alaska.

You can book a cruise without having to pay higher trip costs. If you are into the landscape, you definitely could take the Railroad Trail, where you can also have a pretty good view of Denali, formerly called Mount McKinley. With average trip costs lower than in the summer months, Alaska offers great value for families.

Fall is a great time to catch the Northern Lights, and if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon some local wildlife, such as a Dall sheep or a spot moose.

Budget-Friendly Alaska Hotels

Super 8 by Wyndham Juneau

This little gem is in the best location in Juneau. The Super 8 is far enough away from the hustle and bustle at the port, but it’s close enough that you can go see things there. Check the latest rates and more information.

Westmark Fairbanks Hotel

Conveniently located downtown, the Westmark Fairbanks sets the standard for elegance, style, and service in the Golden Heart City. Check the latest rates and more information.

2. CHICAGO

Chicago has tons of things to do, both free and very inexpensive, and the best part? The Windy City is known for its fresh air and picturesque grounds. Plus there are tons of Chicago tours for families!

Chicago is on of the more budget-friendly fall travel destinations for families. Image of the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park.
Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park.

You can also attend the World Music Festival, which kicks off in early September, making it a great time for a fall trip. You can also take advantage of the city’s metro system to explore this beautiful city without breaking the bank.

If you do not want to drive around the city, feel free to take the public transportation system, which will allow you to easily go from point A to point B without any hassles.

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to one of the most amazing boardwalks in the US, which is the Navy Pier in Lake Michigan.

You cannot leave the area either without grabbing a bite of deep-dish pizza. I mean, that is what Chicago is known for, after all! You can eat it while you bask in the wonderful fall colors.

Find out the top 10 kid-friendly Chicago activities.

Budget-Friendly Chicago Hotels

Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago

Located in the downtown/The Loop neighborhood, the Travelodge is close to Michelin-rated restaurants, amazing architecture, and “The Bean.” Check the latest rates and more information.

Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel

Located in the vibrant Lakeview East neighborhood of Chicago, the Hawthorne Terrace is near Chicago’s lakeshore, with one-of-a-kind boutique shops, and fun restaurants. Check the latest rates and more information.

Hyatt Place Chicago Midway Airport

Located on the popular Midway Hotel Center Campus, the Hyatt Place Chicago Midway Airport hotel is two blocks from Midway Airport and 8 miles from downtown Chicago. Plus, they offer 24-hr free airport shuttle service. Check the latest rates and more information.

3. ARIZONA

Arizona is so hot during the summer months, and because of that, it might not be your number one choice for a fall trip, but it is the absolute best time of the year to visit. The weather is perfect with cooler weather, and you won’t have to deal with the higher trip costs that come with summer.

Cathedral Rock is one of the many reasons to visit Sedona, Arizona in Fall. It's one of the most sought-after fall travel destinations!
Cathedral Rock from Red Rock Crossing in Sedona, Arizona, on a clear, cloudless autumn afternoon.

The colors are so inviting during this time, and you won’t have an enormous crowd of people like you do during the summertime. And the rates for flights and accommodations are not too high.

Hotels can be booked for much less during the fall than what a room would have cost in January.

You can take a beautiful venture out towards the Grand Canyon, which will allow you to see nature in all its stunning fall foliage. And there are tons of things to do in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Sedona.

Budget-Friendly Arizona Hotels

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Phoenix Scottsdale

The La Quinta in Scottsdale offers free breakfast, a swimming pool, and a shuttle service. Plus, kids stay free! Check the latest rates and more information.

Holiday Inn North Phoenix

The Holiday Inn Phoenix North is the newest in contemporary styling and the most modern hotel in the North Phoenix area. It’s conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Peoria. Check the latest rates and more information.

Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites

Located in Mesa, the Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites has a free deluxe buffet breakfast and a beer and wine bar. Plus, it’s just one mile away from the Big League Dreams Sports Park. Check the rates and more information.

4. LOUISIANA

I was chatting with some Louisiana locals a few months ago, and they told us that September was the best time of year to visit New Orleans!

You can head to New Orleans for a budget-friendly fall travel destination.
Old New Orleans houses in the French Quarter.

Visiting Louisiana, especially New Orleans, during the fall will give you a two-fold dose of the area.

You get to see the beautiful fall foliage and enjoy the area without dealing with fewer tourists and the high summer crowds.

The best time to visit is during the off-peak fall months, with lower costs and more availability for accommodations.

They have music festivals, the elusive Oak Street Po Boy Festival, and so many off-the-wall things to do during a visit.

You cannot leave the area without tasting and trying all the Creole cuisine your heart desires. This is one of the top fall vacation ideas.

Budget-Friendly Louisiana Hotels

Alder Hotel

The Alder Hotel is located near Tulane and Loyola Universities and has some of the liveliest spots for food and live music. Check the latest rates and more information.

The Whitney Hotel

Head to The Whitney Hotel for an intimate New Orleans hotel with beautiful rooms and thick walls (so you won’t hear other guests.) Check the latest rates and more information.

Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel

The historic St. Christopher Hotel is a boutique-style hotel located in the heart of New Orleans and just 50 steps away from the world-famous French Quarter. Check the latest rates and more information.

5. MAINE

I visited Portland, Maine, a few years ago during the spring, and it’s stunning! I can just imagine how beautiful it would be in the fall.

Portland, Maine is a great fall travel destination in New England
View of the landmark Portland head lighthouse in Maine as an ocean freighter approaches.

Portland, Maine, is known for its stunning fall foliage and cooler weather, which attract visitors looking for outdoor adventures. It’s also one of the most affordable fall destinations, especially if you visit in early October.

In Portland, Maine, you can bike, hike, or walk through the gorgeous fall foliage. The scenery makes it one of the best fall vacation spots.

Maine also has some of the world’s most photographed lighthouses, including Portland Head Light and the adorable Bug Light!

During their bustling seasons, it can be pretty expensive to visit here and sight-see all the things, but during the fall (which is their off-season) you can save a ton of money on attractions (including lobster fishing at its finest and more!)

Plus, it’s a great time to eat your way through the city with a Maine Foodie Tour!

Budget-Friendly Maine Hotels

Quality Inn & Suites

A hidden gem in South Portland, the Quality Inn and Suites is located near Maine’s largest mall and I-95. Check the latest rates and more information.

Acadia Ocean View Motel

Acadia Ocean View Motel‘s secluded location is ideally situated on the brow of Ireson Hill, the highest elevation on the east side of Mount Desert Island, just minutes from Acadia National Park and charming downtown Bar Harbor. Check the latest rates and more information.

The 8th Maine Regiment Lodge and Museum

Stay just a 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Portland at the 8th Maine Regiment Lodge, an American Civil War Museum and a Victorian-era lodge. Check the latest rates and more information.

6. NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA

Visiting Canada will make you feel like you’ve turned back the clock as you visit a local fishing village that’s straight from the eighteenth century.

Cabot Trail is just one of the reasons to visit Nova Scotia in the fall. It's one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the country.
Cabot Trail scenic view in Nova Scotia, Canada.

The cooler weather and fewer tourists make it one of the most affordable fall destinations in the region. Plus, you’ll get to experience the vibrant fall foliage while exploring coastal towns and historical sites.

You can whale watch in Nova Scotia and tour some of the preserved wood-framed houses on the streets. It is really like looking in a museum.

Fall is an excellent time to visit Canada because you can save money buying tickets to attractions like the Fisheries Museum, the local pubs, and accommodations, with rates lower than the season average during the summer. That’s why Nova Scotia is one of the cheaper fall vacation destinations.

Budget-Friendly Nova Scotia Hotels

Comfort Hotel Bayer’s Lake

Halifax’s newest hotel, the Comfort Hotel Bayer’s Lake, has a free hot breakfast, free high-speed wireless internet, a heated pool, and a full-service restaurant. Check the latest rates and more information.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Dartmouth

Delta Hotels by Marriott Dartmouth has a fitness center, pool, yoga studio, free Wi-Fi, and has great showers and comfortable beds. Check the latest rates and more information.

Coastal Inn Antigonish

If you’re looking for a quaint inn, head to the Coastal Inn Antigonish for a free breakfast. It’s a great resting spot between Halifax and Cape Breton’s Cabot Trail. Check the latest rates and more information.

7. GEORGIA

Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most beautiful cities in the fall. The combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and picturesque fall foliage makes it a perfect spot for an affordable fall vacation. Plus, the shoulder season offers some fantastic deals on accommodations and activities.

During the summer, it is completely overrun by tourists. And fares to visit it can skyrocket into the hundreds of dollars.

Savannah Georgia is a beautiful and budget-friendly fall travel destination.
Savannah, Georgia, at Forsyth Park Fountain.

But, if you visit during the fall, not only will you find the fall leaves in full bloom, but you will be able to enjoy and take in the area without the issues of too many tourists, or higher trip costs.

Don’t forget about all the amazing festivals they have, too, like the Savannah Bacon Festival, which is held in early September. It’s one of the more popular fall break destinations.

Budget-Friendly Savannah Hotels

Holiday Inn Savannah Historic District

Head to Savannah’s premier downtown hotel, the Holiday Inn Savannah Historic District, located one block from Savannah’s iconic River Street, the City Market, and adjacent to the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. Check the latest rates and more information.

The Thunderbird Inn

The Thunderbird Inn is a quirky motel where refined Savannah’s historic location and hip eccentricities meet. Hotel rates include Moon Pies and Krispy Kreme donuts! Check the latest rates and more information.

Staybridge Suites Savannah Historic District

The Staybridge Suites Hotel Savannah Historic District is located just steps from famous River Street, Factor’s Walk, Old Savannah Tours, and the shops and restaurants of City Market River Street. Check the latest rates and more information.

8. COLORADO

Denver is the city to be in Colorado, especially if your fall vacation falls in mid-October.

Denver, Colorado is a beautiful fall travel destination that is affordable
Denver Cityscape Colorado.

They have beautiful and dazzling foliage while you are biking at Cherry Creek. The fall weather here is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. Denver, in particular, boasts beautiful views and fall foliage.

Another reason Colorado is a top fall destination is the chance to visit during autumn prime time, which allows you to avoid high trip costs associated with the busy summer months.

In Denver, you will find that they have their very own Oktoberfest with the Great American Beer Festival where more than 400 breweries are featured.

That’s one of the reasons it’s one of the best October vacation destinations.

Budget-Friendly Colorado Hotels

Ramada by Wyndham Denver International Airport

As the name suggests, the Ramada by Wyndham is located near the airport and offers a free shuttle as well as a free breakfast buffet and free WiFi. Check the latest rates and more information.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Tech Center North

Located minutes from downtown Denver, the Embassy Suites Denver Southeast offers complimentary cooked-to-order breakfasts every morning and nightly evening receptions featuring complimentary snacks and cocktails. Check the latest rates and more information.

Clarion Hotel Denver Central

Newly remodeled, the Clarion Hotel is located in the heart of Denver and has a free hot buffet breakfast and a free shuttle. Check the latest rates and more information.

9. KENTUCKY

Louisville, Kentucky, is a must-see for fall travelers looking for an affordable fall destination with stunning views and vibrant local culture. Louisville is famous for its delicious bourbon, horse racing, and gorgeous fall foliage.

Kentucky is an affordable fall travel destination in the United States.
The Louisville skyline with John F Kennedy Bridge.

The backdrop of the green against the colors of fall makes for an amazing place to take a budget-friendly vacation.

Visiting in the fall months is the best way to experience everything Louisville has to offer without the hassle of higher trip costs that come with the summer months.

If you’re not necessarily a fan of alcohol, you can simply stroll along Iroquois Park, where thousands of carved pumpkins, along with the local fall foliage, make for an amazing sight.

Budget-Friendly Kentucky Hotels

Red Roof Inn Louisville Fair And Expo

Red Roof Inn Louisville Fair and Expo is one of the best 100% smoke-free budget hotels in Louisville. It is near the Lousiville Slugger Museum, the Louisville Science Museum, the Kentucky Derby Museum, and the Louisville Mega Cavern. Check the latest rates and more information.

Tru by Hilton Louisville East

Tru by Hilton Louisville East hotel has a ‘Build your Own’ breakfast toppings bar featuring 30 sweet and savory toppings for cereal, bagels, yogurt, and more. It also has a four-zone lobby. Check the latest rates and more information.

Hampton Inn Louisville East/Hurstbourne

Get free breakfast at the Hampton Inn Louisville East/Hurstbourne, just 13 miles from downtown, the University of Louisville, and Louisville International Airport. Check the latest rates and more information.

10. NEW YORK

Visiting the Big Apple is the perfect backdrop for your fall vacation. Yes, you can visit New York on a budget. All you have to do is plan before doing your research!

Central Park is one of the best places to see fall foliage in NYC and a must-go fall travel destination.
Central Park, with bright morning sunlight and urban skyscrapers in autumn in New York City.

New York City in the fall offers everything from iconic autumn prime time moments in Central Park to discounted museum tickets. The cooler weather and fewer tourists make this an ideal time to explore the city.

You can check to see when attractions like the American Museum of Natural History are free or discounted.

You can also take advantage of the free Big Apple Greeters program, where greeters will go on a private, narrated walk and talk about their neighborhoods.

If you cannot find any attractions that are within your budget, no worries!

If all else fails, you can simply bask in the foliage of the trees at Central Park while eating a delicious pretzel or feed the squirrels some hot nuts from the vendors!

Plus, you can get free tickets to see Late Night with Seth Meyers!

While NYC is fantastic year-round, the fall weather brings out the best in the city, with events like the New York Film Festival and open-air markets. If you time your visit right, you can even score cheaper hotel rates and take advantage of off-peak travel savings.

Read my ultimate 4-Day NYC Itinerary!

Budget-Friendly NYC Hotels

Manhattan Bowery Lodge

Manhattan Bowery Lodge is located in the heart of Chinatown in Lower Manhattan, surrounded by many great restaurants and shops. Check the latest rates and more information.

International Student Center

Located in Manhattan, in a beautiful and safe neighborhood of the Upper West Side, the International Student Center is a hostel 1/2 block from Central Park and the subway. It serves young travelers passing through New York City. Check the latest rates and more information.

Morningside Inn

An affordable place to stay in New York City, the Morningside Inn is in the heart of the city’s vibrant Upper Westside—Morningside Heights. The hotel is housed in a 6-story, elevator pre-war building with the old-world charm of that era. Check the latest rates and more information.

Budget Family Travel FAQs

How do families afford to travel?

That’s a popular question! Many families who travel often avoid high seasons (like spring break and summer). Another option is to sign up for flight alerts so you know when there are cheap fares. And if you want to go somewhere expensive (like Walt Disney World), start setting aside money every week to save up.

How can I save money while traveling?

There are a few easy ways to save a few bucks on vacation. Take public transportation instead of renting a car or hailing a taxi. Eat out only once per day and make your own food the rest of the time. Stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel.

What’s the best time of year to drive across the USA?

Fall is actually one of the best times for a USA road trip. That’s because it’s much less crowded than summer and the weather is usually mild. You’ll have a bit less traffic near National Parks and might even be able to take advantage of some great fall travel deals.

Cheap Fall Travel Wrap-Up

As the leaves change colors and temperatures drop, it’s time to think about where you want to spend your fall break.

With the fall destination average trip cost going high, there’s always a way to find a quick weekend getaway that the entire family would enjoy.

Many destinations in the U.S. offer stunning fall foliage, seasonal events, and outdoor activities perfect for families. Even with rising trip costs, you can still find ways to save and enjoy your fall vacation.

Check out our other blog posts on travel destinations across America (including the Pacific Northwest!) for some inspiration this season!

In the end, if you still feel like you cannot afford a fall vacation due to the average trip cost, simply visit the local park in your area or the nearest national park. There are plenty of outdoor activities you can do instead of going on fall trips.

You can do fall camping with kids to enjoy the autumn season while saving money, or check out these fall bucket lists for families.

Looking for more awesome Fall travel destinations? Check out my posts about Pacific Northwest weekend getaways, cheap US family vacation spots, best Fall destinations in the U.S., and spooky Halloween vacations!

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