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two pumpkins sitting together on a beach in Florida in October

7 Things to Know Before Visiting Florida in October

January 6, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you traveling to Florida in October? We’ve got you covered with seven things you should know before you begin your adventures! From Halloween events to cooler weather, beaches, festivals and more, you’re in for a memorable trip!

Florida in October includes cooler weather, the Florida “Spring Season”, less busy beaches, and even a possible hurricane or two! But don’t worry, Florida trips in October are always a blast, so keep reading for all the things to see in Florida in October! We promise you won’t be disappointed with the weather, the state, and the tons of things to do. Florida in October is the best!

Two orange pumpkins sit on the white sand of a beach in Florida in October.

There is Cooler Weather!

We all know that Florida is known for its humidity and heat, but what happens when you visit Florida in October? Florida weather in October tends to be less rainy, and cooler. It is no longer 95 degrees Farenhite, mainly because that rain fall does tend to cool the state off.

With the changing weather in October, it’s important to know that as the rainfall slows down, humidity levels start to decrease too. Thus, the evenings can be a bit chilly and breezy. The average temperature for Florida in October can range between 80 to 85 degrees. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of things to do in Florida in October with these slight temperature changes!

However, this is dependent on the region! For example, Tampa and Orlando tend to stay in the higher temps of that range, at about 85 degrees, while Miami and Jacksonville are a few degrees cooler at 83 degrees. So be careful! Also just be aware that the average rainfall for Florida in October is 8 inches!

Waves on the shore was away the word "Summer" and reveal "autumn" as it is carved into the sand, representing Florida in October.

The Water is Cooling off too– but it’s not too Cold!

The weather in Florida in October is always slightly more bearable than the summer heat. But as the temperature cools, what happens to the water? No worries! Florida weather in October mimics the air. But it doesn’t get too cold!

An important tip to have with the water temps is that the further south you go, the warmer the water gets. Even in October! The Atlantic side of the state also tends to be warmer than the opposing side– the Gulf side!

The warmest waters will tend to be around the southern most tip of Miami, and the Keys too. On average, this will be about 83 degrees Fahrenheit! In Tampa, the waters tend to be closer to 81 degrees, and if you are by the panhandle, the water will be closer to 78! Just remember that tropical storms are still possible in October– and that warmer water makes those storms thrive!

In Florida in October you can see sunsets like this one: orange and pink and purple pastels, with white sand and vibrant blue water.

October in Florida is still Hurricane Season

As we’ve alluded to already, it is important to remember that when traveling to Florida in October, you’ll still be hitting the end of Hurricane season. Be cautious, as hurricanes and topical storms are still possible during this time.

While hurricanes can happen at any point during Hurricane Season , mid-August through late October is most likely the time period for a hurricane to make landfall. The official “peak” date is September 10th, and the season starts on June 1st every year. The season ends officially on November 30th, so please just be aware as you travel! Especially if you’re going more south, toward that warmer water!

Florida in October is still a part of hurricane season, so big storm shelves with dark clouds, like seen above the beach in this photo, can be common.

Halloween Events are in Full Swing, Specifically in Orlando, but also Around the State

By the end of October, some of the crowds in Florida will get slightly bigger. This is because of Halloween! Although Florida in October doesn’t have changing leaves, we still do have Halloween events that encompass fall. Things like pumpkin patches, ghost tours, harvest events and more can be found throughout the state.

For those who are traveling to Florida in October for the scary season, they may want to check out the top notch scare events such as: Howl-O-Scream (at both Busch Gardens in Tampa, and SeaWorld in Orlando), Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, or even Scream-A-Geddon.

But if you one of those people who wants their Florida trips in October to be less scary, there are other Halloween options too. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom is super family friendly, and there is always Brick or Treat at Legoland too! Better yet, no matter what city you are in, there is bound to be pumpkin patches, mazes, and other fall events . For example, Raprager Family Farm features hayrides, petting zoos and more, and it is in the Tampa area. Halloween comes to life in October– so make a Florida getaway in October to experience it!

In Florida in October LegoLand and other theme parks put on Halloween events, as shown by the lego head that is decorated like a jack-o-lantern at the front of the park.

The Florida Keys Host FantasyFest in Key West

Fantasy Fest is an annual 10-day party in Key West ! But warning, it is for grown ups only. So when considering the best places to visit in Florida in October, watch where you may be going. This Key West get away may not be family appropriate! That doesn’t mean it’s not fun!

Locals in Key West started this FantasyFest as a way to get people to come to the quiet island during the slower season. With costuming, libations, parades and more, this fest continues to grow as years continue! In fact, it is so big now that they currently live stream the events in case you can’t make it there in person!

Enjoy body painting, musicals, water adventures on jet skis, karaoke, happy hour, and more! And this is only on one day! Can you imagine what each day has to offer over the course of 10 days?! Again, as a reminder, the crowds are smaller in Key West in October, but we also want to remind you that the further south, the warmer the water. While the average temperatures in Florida in October are higher in Key West, please remember that this is still Hurricane season so be prepared!

In Florida in October Fantasy Fest in Key West is a popular destination: in this photo, the banner for the arts festival is bright with lots of colors as it flaps in a blue sky.

Amelia Island Beaches are the Best to Visit in October

Of all the best places to visit in Florida in October, Amelia Island Beaches are one of them. Not only are they less crowded due to the time of year, but the weather is still nice, and the water isn’t too cold! As mentioned earlier, the beaches on the Atlantic tend to be warmer, so these Amelia Island Beaches are of top vacation spots in Florida in October for one last hurrah before the waters get too cold.

In addition to this, Amelia Island Beaches are just BEAUTIFUL! The gorgeous beaches keep people coming back year after year, and the Northern location is actually less busy! And less crowds = more play time and room on the shore and in the water! So why wouldn’t this place be considered the best beach in Florida in October?! Plus, this location is prime for fantastic historical and ghost tours if you are interested post-beach experience.

The beaches of Amelia Island in Florida in October are less crowded-- as seen in this picture-- and feature some of that "fall" presence. This photo shows a boardwalk with lots of greens and red plants that lead to white sand and blue waters.

October Marks the Start of “Florida Spring Season”

As alluded to throughout the article, October truly is one of the best times to visit Florida. This “spring season” features kids going back to school– with no long breaks in sight– and the summer is done! Which means there are no large crowds around.

This truly is the perfect time to r esume visiting the Florida Springs without the massive influx of people– especially if you go on weekdays! And with the cooler temps continuing, the crowds will stay pretty minimal. The only people you may see more of are the snow birds, since people are returning for college semesters too!

woman underwater at ginnie springs

And there you have it folks! Things you need to know about visiting Florida in October. We promise there is so many things to do, whether this is fall related, Halloween inspired, or Florida themed! Each city has its own adventures, and with cooler weather, less crowds, the opportunities are endless. Florida in October becomes the best vacation spot! Time for a getaway!

Lush greenery surrounds a blue natural spring in Florida during a light rain.

Peter Pan Traveler

Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is a great place to visit throughout the year. However, with warm weather comes some hot days that can be unbearable for those not used to it.

For some, the summer can be too hot to comfortably enjoy being outdoors. This is why, for many people, the fall months are the perfect time to visit Florida. October is an ideal month.

The temperature is warm and comfortable for enjoying the outdoors, and the climate turns from humid and rainy to dry and cool.

October is one of the slowest tourist months of the entire year, another reason it ’ s an attractive time to visit.

You can expect smaller crowds, which brings down the prices of flights, hotels, and other entertainment in the area, making October also a great month to save a bit of money in Florida.

Florida is the only state in the US with a subtropical/tropical climate all year long.

So while October starts to cool down from the hot summer months, it ’ s still warm. The average high temperature in October around the state is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit and there is an average low of 67.5 degrees Fahrenheit which mainly occurs at night.

The southern part of the state is the warmest.

October is also nearing the end of hurricane season in Florida, which can be no longer stressful and daunting for visitors and residents.

By October, you don ’ t need to worry about storms ruining your vacation. There are very few hurricane watches or warnings in October so you can safely plan a trip and not have to have concerns about it being canceled.  

Fall weather is warm enough to hang out on the beach without being too hot and needing to get out of the heat.

It also means the nights will be cooler, which will allow you to find reprieve from the heat. As a result, the days are very comfortable, and there are fewer crowds. It ’ s the best of both worlds.

Florida has over 4,000 islands that are part of the state. These are great to explore in the fall when the weather is perfect for being outside.

October would be a great time of year to explore some of the islands that have been on your bucket list.

Some cities in Florida, like Tampa, even celebrate Oktoberfest , a fun-filled beer festival that happens in Munich, Germany, each year but has made its way all over the world, and Oktoberfest events are now held in tons of places.

Other fun events that occur throughout Florida during October are Halloween parties.

Best Places In Florida To Visit In October

Keep reading for a list of ten of the best places to visit in Florida during October.

October is an excellent month to visit any place in Florida because of the decline in tourist crowds, more attractive pricing, and great weather.

October is a great time to visit Orlando. All the kids have returned to school, so fewer families crowd the amusement parks and the city.

The temperature will be much more bearable when you ’ re standing in line waiting for your favorite Disney ride.

If you have children, this is a great time to bring them to the parks when there aren ’ t as many families. Don ’ t have children? Capitalize on the fact that kids will be in school during the week.

Walt Disney World is the most popular attraction in Florida and is busy no matter what time of year it is, but luckily October is a little slower than the summer months.

Walt Disney World consists of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, as well as two water parks. There are also some great beaches near Disney World.

Not only do hotel and flight costs decrease in October, but so does park pricing, so it ’ s a great time of year to save money and not wait in lines for nearly as long.  

🏨 Stay Here – Ette Luxury Hotel – The top-rated hotel in Orlando.

October is a great time of year to visit Tampa. The fall marks the start of manatee season and Tampa is surrounded by parks worth checking out where you may get lucky and spot a manatee.

For instance, visit ZooTampa and check out the animals or Adventure Island, which is a large water park that is part of SeaWorld.

Not far from Tampa is Little Manatee River State Park and Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, both of which have tons of manatees for you to hopefully see.

🏨 Stay Here – Tampa Edition – Where Jungle meets Boho. Very cool hotel that you will love.

3. Siesta Key

This coastal 8-mile barrier island is on the Gulf of Mexico off of Sarasota. It ’ s known for its stunning beaches and shallow waters, which are great for swimming.

With silky white sand and turquoise blue water, October is one of the best times of year to visit Siesta Key and enjoy a day on the beach. It is the perfect small beach town in Florida .

The mild, comfortable temperatures will allow you to lounge and relax without overheating under the sun.

Siesta Key welcomes you to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Siesta stands for an afternoon rest on a hot day which is very fitting for this island city.

🏨 Stay Here – Capri Siesta – Great Location and Friendly Staff

4. Sanibel Island

While summer on Sanibel Island can be crowded and busy, fall is just right. Expect to find a nice piece of beach real estate to lounge on for the day, whereas this can be hard to comfortably find in the summer months.

Sanibel Island hosts an event known as “ Ding” Darling Days at the “ Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in October each year.

The event encourages people to get outdoors and explore the refuges in their area. Events include a free family fun day, art day, and free visits to the refuge.

Besides this, there is plenty to do on Sanibel Island .

🏨 Stay Here – Seahorse Cottages – Awesome Boutique Hotel in the best location.

5. Palm Beach

This very popular city in Florida is known for its glitz and glamor. The barrier island is on the Atlantic coast and separated from the mainland by the Lake Worth Lagoon.

Palm Beach received its name from the palm trees that line the streets. For example, Worth Avenue is lined by palm trees and is known worldwide for its upscale shopping opportunities.

It has luxurious resorts, gorgeous mansions, tons of history, and gourmet restaurants. If you want to be pampered for your vacation, this is the place to be.

It ’ s also known for its beautiful beaches. The famous Lilly Pulitzer brand began in Palm Beach. Golf is another popular activity on the island, with luxurious views of Lake Worth Lagoon.

🏨 Stay Here – The Breakers – Right on the Beach.

6. The Florida Keys

The Keys are one of the most popular destinations in the US because it feels entirely like a tropical vacation and not at all like you’re in the state of Florida.

The Keys are accessed by the Overseas Highway. In October, the water temperature is still low 80s, so it ’ s a great time to swim, hang at the beach, snorkel, and jet ski.

The weather is perfect for being outdoors and out and about on the water. Key West and Key Largo have some of the most stunning beaches of the Keys.

These islands are a fun place to visit and a must-see if you get the chance. Be sure to indulge in key lime pie and the freshest seafood you could imagine.

Then, party the night away and enjoy all that The Keys are known for.

🏨 Stay Here – Douglas House – Top rated hotel in Key West

7. Clearwater Beach

Known for being one of the most famous and popular beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach has fine, powdery-white sand and crystal turquoise waters.

It ’ s named after its clear waters that are surreally visible. The calm waters make it a great place to swim, paddle board, kayak, and parasail.

Clearwater holds many events in the fall, including the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Clearwater Offshore Nationals, and the Seafood Festival.

Check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium during the day and by night head to Pier 60 and be prepared to be entertained by the artisans and street performers there each night.

There is a great coastal promenade where you ’ ll always find people walking, running, cycling, and rollerblading. The promenade is also lined by restaurants, bars, and cafes.

🏨 Stay Here – Legacy Resort – Friendly Staff and Great Location

Naples is known for its high-end shopping, gourmet restaurants, and luxurious golf courses. Naples is a beautiful place on the Gulf Coast in southwest Florida.

There are a ton of waterfront bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite and enjoy the turquoise-colored view.

The Naples Pier is a great spot to catch the sunset and go for a walk and was first built in 1888 and has since become a symbol of the city.

It’s also a popular spot for fishing and dolphin spotting. The sand in Naples is known as sugar sand for its fine properties. October is a great time for all the outdoor activities in Naples.

🏨 Stay Here – Inn at Pelican Bay – Cute boutique hotel

9. Amelia Island

One of the oldest places in Florida, Amelia Island dates back to 1562 and has a history of being ruled by the Spanish, French, British, and Americans.

It ’ s most well known for its golf courses with fantastic ocean views. Amelia Island is located near the northeastern border of Florida by Georgia.

It’s known for its history and in the historic district, you may even find ghost tours in the old town.

Enjoy the beach and all the waterfront restaurants that dot the coast. Main Beach Park has a public boardwalk with sand dunes, beach sports, and other recreational activities.

🏨 Stay Here – Spring Hills Inn – Stunning pool and close to the beach

10. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is a city off the coast of Tampa in the Tampa Bay area. It ’ s a popular place for golfing, boating, fishing, and of course, beach-going.

The city is known for its art, and The Dali Museum has the most extensive collection of Salvador Dali ’ s work outside of Spain.

In addition, the city has several art districts and many more art museums. St Petersburg is also home to Dunedin, Florida’s oldest microbrewery.

🏨 Stay Here – The Hollander – Great Downtown Location

Conclusions

Hopefully, this has convinced you that October is a great time to visit Florida, despite what you might have previously thought.

It ’ s a great opportunity to save money and enjoy visiting beaches and parks with fewer crowds than normal.

The weather is ideal because it ’ s not unbearably hot and humid like it is in the summer months. October is underrated and a great time of year to visit Florida.

Do you have a favorite spot in Florida that you like to visit in October that wasn’t mentioned on this list? Say so in the comments below

Other articles you might like

  • Best Places to Snorkel in Florida
  • Packing List for Florida
  • Best Tropical Vacations in September
  • Best Places to Party in Florida

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Erin's Travel Tips

Florida in October: Best Events & Fun Things to Do in 2023

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Halloween pumpkins with twinkle lights in the background

Table of Contents

Looking for the best things to do in Florida in October? As a Floridian, I’m sharing my favorite things to do in Florida in October!

Most travelers associate Florida with beaches and theme parks on spring break. October is an underrated time of year to head to The Sunshine State. If you aren’t tethered to school schedules or waiting for a long weekend , travel during a month like October has plenty of advantages.

It may sound strange, but October, November , and December are three of my favorite months of the entire year to avoid large crowds and see popular destinations with good weather.

The crowds are at a year-round low for most travel destinations, especially theme parks. The weather is about as comfortable as it gets for Florida, with milder temperatures and less rain. There are plenty of festivals and events taking place throughout the state, and the conditions for outdoor recreation are basically perfect. 

Here’s a quick guide for what to expect, what to pack, and what to be excited about for your October trip to Florida!

ett divider

Florida Weather in October

Indian Rocks Beach,  Florida in October

Weather in South Florida in October

The Southern tip of the peninsula will feel relief from summer temperatures starting in late September, so expect temperatures in the mid to upper 80s (this is considered “cooler” in places like the Florida Keys). It’s still in the rainy season, though it’s less frequent. A light afternoon shower is generally the worst of it! 

Weather in North Florida in October

The weather in Northern Florida is slightly cooler than in southern parts of the state, with mild temperatures around the low 80s during the day and 70s for the mornings and evenings. The rainfall will start to decrease in September, making October one of your best bets for packing in a full day of activities during trips. Humidity levels are quite low compared to other months, so October days are absolutely delightful for outdoor activities, especially hiking and camping. 

A Note on Hurricane Season… 

October is still technically part of hurricane season, but it’s the tail end of it. If you’re traveling to Miami, the Keys, or other coastal regions of the state, you’ll still want to familiarize yourself with what to do during a hurricane. Checking the weather before your trip is always useful. If you’re camping or visiting state parks, the authorities will be diligent in updating you on whether it’s safe to travel, and if areas will be open. Research and awareness always help! 

What to Pack for Florida in October

The weather during October is one of the most comfortable times of year in Florida, but you’ll want to plan for a wider range of temperatures than you would during warmer times of the year. T-shirts, shorts, flip flops, and swimsuits are all must-packs, but you’ll want to plan for milder evenings and mornings. A windbreaker or light coat will likely be useful at least once. While the rains are subsiding, having something for a drizzle never hurts! 

If you’re doing any trip to Florida correctly, you’ll be spending plenty of time outside. While the days are shorter, you’ll want to bring some SPF. Believe me, you want to make sure you don’t show up to work with an inexplicable sunburn in the middle of October! Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and they will be even more useful if you can pair them with jeans for the evenings. 

Things to Do in Florida in October

October may not have the crowded event calendar that the winter months have, but that’s what keeps the crowds away. The fall holidays tend to focus more on fun, with Oktoberfest and Halloween having relaxed expectations. These holidays are the most prominent events to look into, and most cities will have some programming dedicated to getting spooky or wearing lederhosen and drinking beer. 

Top Florida Music Festivals in October

Kid Rock Concert in Florida in October

While other regions tend to wind down their festival season as temperatures dip, Florida’s music scene picks up quite a bit in October. A diverse array of music festivals take place throughout the state. Here are a few: 

  • Country Thunder (Kissimmee, FL) : This 3-day concert featuring the latest headliners in country music
  • Clearwater Jazz Holiday : a 4-day celebration in Coachman Park that has been a crowd favorite for over 40 years!
  • Jazz in the Park (Sanford, FL) : Located in Centennial Park, this annual music and food festival is free for everyone to enjoy.
  • III Points (Miami, FL): Tastemaking electronic, rock, hip-hop, and pop acts come together for one of the country’s best-curated music festivals. III Points is held during the third weekend of October at the Wynwood. 
  • The FEST (Gainesville, FL): A sprawling event featuring dozens of underground punk, rock, and metal bands.
  • Music Events at Suwannee (Live Oak, FL): Suwannee Roots Revival holds a festival the first weekend of the month, bringing Grateful Dead-inspired rock to the Suwannee Music Park. Later in the month, Suwannee Hulaween brings a diverse range of rock, electronic, and hip-hop to massive crowds and  Halloween events.

Oktoberfest in Florida

Ockoberfest canva pro 91223

I’m always a sucker for a good Oktoberfest! While Florida may not be a top destination for this fun October holiday, you’ll find plenty of outstanding festivals throughout the state. Here are a few of the best options for Octoberfest in Florida.

  • Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches : Top on the list is a glorious annual event in Lake Worth. This was one of my favorite childhood events, yet it’s still more popular with adults. You’ll find authentic Bavarian live music, food, and beer! As I mentioned it’s family-friendly with a carnival with new rides and plenty of games for all ages.
  • IRB Oktoberfest (Indian Rocks Beach) : The annual IRB Oktoberfest at the beginning of October. It is usually held on the first Saturday of the month in Kolb Park. This beachy, non-traditional style German event is full of fun things to do, including beer, food vendors, live music, a silent auction, and a crafts show. Don’t miss my favorite Keg Throwing event!
  • Oktoberfest by the German American Society of Central Florida: Arguably, the most authentic festival around! Join the fun from live entertainment, dancing, food, and beverages served in their Biergarten!
  • Oktoberfest Tampa : This annual 3-day weekend usually occurs mid-month at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. You’ll see some of the finest traditional dances, craft beer, and plenty of fun things to do along the Tampa Riverwalk.

More Florida Festivals in October

Florida crowds in Plant City, Florida

Beyond live music, much more is happening in the Sunshine State. Here’s a quick look at some of the top Florida events to check out in October.

  • Micanopy Fall Festival (Micanopy, FL) : The Antique Capital of the US hosts their annual event in October. For over 45+ years, local artisans, craftsmen, and musicians put on one of the finest events in North Florida.
  • Tampa Pig Jig (Tampa, FL) : For 10+ years, this not-for-profit event has raised money for a debilitating kidney disease in Tampa. Come out for the barbecue, live music, and craft beer, and tickets go to a good cause.
  • Cedar Key Seafood Festival : One of my long-time favorite sleepy fisherman villages is Cedar Key. For over 50 years, they have held their incredible seafood festival with fresh seafood, live music, and more festivities.
  • Annual Treasure Coast Seafood Festival (Vero Beach, FL) : Held at the Indian River Fairgrounds, this family-friendly event has delicious fresh seafood, arts and crafts, and a kid’s zone!
  • Annual Stone Crab Festival (Naples, FL) : For some of the best stone crabs and more delicious seafood, you’ll want to head to Naples. This end-of-the-month event boasts plenty to see, from shops, activities, arts and crafts, and live music.

It’s Spooky Season At Florida’s Theme Parks 

Showing a Halloween themed ax and smoke

While the Halloween holiday isn’t specific to Florida, the state’s numerous theme parks are perfect hosts for Halloween festivities. While these events are very popular, the crowds will be more manageable than when school is out. The weather also makes it very comfortable, especially if you’ll be dressing up! 

Walt Disney World Florida in October

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, held at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, brings Halloween events to the park. You’ll see a flurry of spooky floats, live music, and Disney villains. Costumes are encouraged, as all your favorite characters will also be dressed for the occasion.  If you have little ones, Magic Kingdom is a less frightening choice for Halloween.

EPCOT at Disney World offers its annual Food & Wine Festival that runs through November. This includes live entertainment, exclusive marketplaces, and in recent years a scavenger hunt. This is a wonderful time of year to visit EPCOT because of the fun food and beverages to try, and you can enjoy cooler weather!

If you get time to explore beyond the Disney parks, you’ll want to check out some of their free entertainment and shopping in Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk .

Universal Studios

Universal Studios hosts its Halloween Horror Nights, which features haunted houses and live shows aiming to bring scares to parkgoers of all ages. I particularly enjoyed Universal’s Halloween event as a teenager and a young adult with scare zones, themed food, and haunted houses.

🎃 Pro Tip: Early October, when Universal Studios holiday season starts, is ideal for avoiding tourist crowds.

More Theme Parks with Florida October Events

SeaWorld Orlando photo

Legoland, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens also put together great Halloween-themed programming and have the same advantages of smaller crowds and comfortable weather. I highly recommend looking at tickets ahead of time for opportunities to save.

🤑 Pro Tip: I found incredible deals at all three of these parks by purchasing tickets during their summertime specials. For example, I’ve been able to use the Fun Card I bought at SeaWorld for over a year as many times as I wanted to go. Legoland also ran a special with 50% off ticket prices to use by November.

Best Florida Cities to Visit in October

I’m a bit biased as a Tampa Bay resident regarding Florida cities! However, there are plenty of other parts of the state I love to spend time during the month of October.

Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida

Miami is one of my favorite places in Florida in October, as the South Florida weather is as comfortable as it will get, and the hordes of tourists are taking a break between summer and winter. It’s not for everyone, but I like to think of it as a place everyone should visit at least once, and October is easily one of the best times to do it. 

For adults travelers looking for party vibes, there’s no better place for a big night out than a trip to the nightlife capital Miami. Nightclubs, bars, and restaurants host events celebrating the holiday, with drink deals, costume contests, and fantastic energy. Stretches like South Beach almost feel like “adult trick-or-treating” with clubbers and revelers dressing up when they hit the town. Miami also hosts a perfectly serviceable Oktoberfest, with a full-fledged festival celebrating all things German. 

Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida

Visiting Tampa in October is a delightful experience, especially for those keen on exploring the city’s unique events and attractions. The month is packed with activities, starting with the much-anticipated “Howl-O-Scream” at Busch Gardens, a Halloween-themed event that promises both thrills and chills. October is a great time to catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game and feel the electrifying energy of the NFL season.

Tampa has one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations of any large city in Florida. The event is held downtown along the gorgeous waterfront. Later in the month, a spectacular array of Halloween events. Overall, Tampa in October provides a balanced blend of leisure and excitement, making it an ideal getaway.

🌴 Related: Best Downtown Tampa Hotels

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, a city adorned with beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, offers a captivating experience for its visitors, especially during the autumn months. If you’re up for an adventure, St. Augustine is one of the most haunted cities, which makes for super fun ghost tours !

The Castillo de San Marcos , a centuries-old fortress, stands as a testament to the city’s rich past and provides panoramic water views. And if you’re a food enthusiast, the city’s culinary scene, deeply influenced by its Spanish heritage, is a treat, with many eateries hosting special autumn-themed menus. In essence, St. Augustine in the fall is a mosaic of history, culture, and gastronomy, awaiting exploration.

Top-Rated St. Augustine Tours

Orlando, florida.

Orlando, Florida

With all the events in Orlando, Florida in October, you can’t leave it off the list. It’s ideal for anyone who loves theme parks, especially if you enjoy Halloween celebrations! I also find Orlando to be one of the best places for golfers and shoppers. There’s 100+ golf courses in the Orlando area and some of the best malls and outlets, you’ll have plenty to do!

Best Florida Beaches in October

St Pete Beach Florida in October showing the waves and the rocks

I’m a firm believer that any day by the beach is a good day!

The weather in Florida is comfortable enough during October that basically any beach is worth visiting. But, there are a few white sand beaches that I particularly like to visit in October due to smaller crowds and favorable weather conditions.

Anna Maria Island, Barrier Islands

Anna Maria Island is just outside of Bradenton, north of Sarasota and Siesta Key. This beautiful stretch of land (located just south of Tampa Bay) juts out into the Gulf of Mexico and features 7 miles of sandy beaches flanked by historic streets and fishing piers. Fishing charters are especially popular for group trips. 

Clearwater Beach, Tampa Bay

While Clearwater Beach may have gorgeous beaches year round, but you’ll have a great time exploring downtown Clearwater without the larger crowds. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is perfect for a rainy day, and Pier 60 will provide some post-dinner entertainment. I frequently staycation in Clearwater Beach. For ultimate pampering, my go-to hotel is the Sand Pearl Resort . Plus, Clearwater Beach is just a short drive from Tampa for more fun things to do like football season!

Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

This remote stretch of Nassau County features some of the most stunning beaches on the Atlantic, but the main feature is its picturesque town. The historic Main Street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy when you’re not splashing away or taking sunrise runs along Fernandina Beach. 

Smathers Beach, Key West

This Key West hotspot is ideal for its miles upon miles of Bahama-imported white sand. Because of the preservation efforts to combat coastal erosion, the conditions of Smathers Beach are ideal year-round.  I can’t get enough of The Florida Keys. You feel like you are living in a Hemingway novel. And for those of us living on Florida’s Gulf Coast, you can take the Key West Express ferry and skip the drive!

Enjoying the Outdoors in Florida in October 

With the heat finally subsiding, Floridians start to pursue outdoor activities they’ve been putting off during the summer scorchers. The weather is about as good as it will get for hiking, trekking, kayaking, and other activities, and camping is less tedious with the milder temperatures. Even better, October is when pesky mosquitos will finally start to disappear!

Best Florida Camping and Recreation in October

Best Florida Camping and Recreation in October

Ocala National Forest (Ocala, FL)

Situated just north of Orlando, this is one of the best camping destinations for travelers coming in from other states. Ocala is only a few hours away from Orlando International Airport, with car and RV rentals being easy to arrange before heading to this tranquil region. The region boasts a wide range of natural beauty to appreciate, including Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, Lake Kerr, Lake George, and the Yearling Trail. Plus, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a short drive away to see manatees up close.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo (River Ranch)

For novice campers, “glamping” might be the best introduction to the pastime. Central Florida’s coolest destination is this 1,700-acre ranch that’s been repurposed into a luxury outdoor destination. There are covered wagons that have been converted to camping tents, complete with furniture and even ceiling fans. 

I’ve been visiting Westgate River Ranch since childhood, and I say it’s come a long way! If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination for horseback riding, trails, and wilderness adventures, it’s one of the best in Florida.

Suwannee River Wilderness Trail (Mayo)

Located between Tallahassee and Gainesville, this trail spans miles upon miles of winding river. This is the best place in Florida for kayakers, as they can paddle between the trail’s five campsites for a convenient multi-day trip down a stunning river. 

Final Thoughts on Florida in October

With crisp temperatures and the crunch of leaves arriving in most of the country, anyone missing summertime should look into an “offseason” trip down to Florida. Smaller crowds, comfortable weather, and a variety of events make the Sunshine State a superb travel destination during the fall. 

Whether it’s an all-night Halloween party in South Beach or a quaint stroll through one of Florida’s historic coastal towns, empty-nesters, yuppies, and elderly travelers can all take advantage of Florida’s ideal travel conditions during this month. Families will also find plenty of reasons to travel to The Sunshine State. Either way, Florida should be on your shortlist of destinations for your next October vacation! 

Interesting Florida Articles to Read Next

Florida in December: Best Events & More From a Local [2023]
Florida in November: Best Events & Things to Do [2023]
20 Best Florida Gulf Coast Beaches in 2023 [Local’s Review]

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Florida in October: Everything You Need to Know

Florida in October: Everything You Need to Know

Considering a trip to Florida in October and need some help? We’ve got you covered!

October is a beautiful time to visit Florida with weather changing from rainy and humid to cool and dry. It’s also one of the slowest months of the year with tourist crowds fairly low, making your vacation more enjoyable and easygoing. October is nearing the end of hurricane season as well, so storms won’t be as big of an issue this month.

There are many Halloween and Harvest events going on all over the state this month that welcome visitors and residents alike, along with great vacations to consider on Amelia Island and in Palm Beach. This is also a great time of year to see the mermaids at Weeki Wachee.

Whatever you plan to do this month, we’ve got everything you need to know about weather, things to do, best beaches, events, and more!

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Florida travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Florida month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Florida .

Florida in October Pros

  • Beaches are less crowded
  • Travel rates can be lower this month
  • Theme parks have Halloween festivities

Florida October Cons

  • Weather and temperatures can be hit or miss
  • Hurricanes are still possible this month

Florida Weather in October

florida places to visit in october

October weather in Florida is cooling off and getting drier. Hurricane season is nearly over and October typically won’t have too many hurricane watches or warnings. Aside from the big storms, daily rain showers and thunder storms begin to slow down this month, making most days pretty dry in October.

October is one of the first months that you begin to see cooler temperatures, as well. While it doesn’t drop too low too often, the humidity will be noticeably lower, making it easier to be outdoors for longer periods of time. This month tends to also be a bit breezy, but warm temperatures and random hot days are still frequent.

Florida is the only place in the United States that maintains a subtropical to tropical climate all year round. Based on where you’ll be traveling, temperatures are likely to vary and the warmest temps will be farther South. Most of the state will average a high of about 80°F (26.7°C) in the month of October, and a low of 67.5°F (19.7°C) occurring at nighttime.

October Florida Weather Cheat Sheet

Florida affordability & crowds in october.

florida places to visit in october

October crowds in Florida are low. Most people aren’t traveling much this month anyway, but with the hurricane season unpredictability, it tends to keep tourists at bay. This makes it a nice month to visit the beaches and theme parks, but the weather is never guaranteed to be pretty. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side, can still be very hot and more susceptible to bad storms.

Most travelers will experience lower rates for Florida’s best hotels in October. Decent accommodations in Orlando will range from $150 – $300 per night, hotels in Tampa will range from $100 – $150 per night, and the more populous city of Miami will see rates from $150 – $300 per night.

Best Things to Do in Florida in October

Relax in palm beach.

florida places to visit in october

Palm Beach is a long-storied beach haven for ritzy residents and upscale travelers who are looking for a refined destination on the coast. Unlike the many quaint beach towns that dot Florida’s shores, Palm Beach has a lot of glamour and style to offer for a spectacular beach vacation. It’s located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, north of Fort Lauderdale and sits on it’s own barrier island off Lake Worth Lagoon.

Henry Flagler, who’s name appears throughout many areas of Florida from St. Augustine to the Keys, once lived in Palm Beach while developing the Florida East Coast Railway along the Atlantic. His home has been dubbed the Flagler Museum , and it along with Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens , give Palm Beach charming historic sites for tourists to visit. In addition to the historic nature of the town, Palm Beach has more to discover.

Worth Avenue’s palm lined streets are the birthplace of the famous Lilly Pulitzer brand and remain a fashion district for Palm Beach to this day. Shopping along with golfing are popular pastimes here, both offering luxurious views of the Intercoastal Waterway and Lake Worth Lagoon.

Experience Weeki Wachee

florida places to visit in october

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a local favorite almost year round, located in Hernando County. It’s claim to fame, other than the mermaids that frequent these waters, is the fact that the bottom of the springs has never been found. It’s so deep that even the most expert divers can’t reach the bottom. The currents are extremely strong in the springs, so the designated safe swimming area is in the Buccaneer Bay Waterpark .

Florida is filled with natural springs, but something completely unique to Weeki Wachee is the underwater shows performed daily. Weeki Wachee mermaids put these shows on for all ages, with themes from various movies and folklore. It’s a truly unique and magical experience for audiences to enjoy, before heading to the swim zone themselves.

Aside from watching the mermaids or splashing in the waterpark, guests can also rent paddleboards or kayaks, ride the river boat or take a ranger led tour of the springs.

Stay on Amelia Island

florida places to visit in october

Amelia Island is one of the closest island destinations to the state of Georgia, known for it’s luxurious accommodations, well-kept golf courses and beautiful white sand beaches. Most travelers will be looking for a relaxing beach trip, but there is plenty to do out of the ocean, as well.

The beautiful downtown area, full of rich history with combined Spanish, French and British influence, has streets lined with boutique shops and exquisite restaurants. The Amelia Island Museum of History provides an interesting educational opportunity, along with a visit to the Amelia Island Lighthouse .

Nearby Jacksonville is Florida’s most populous city, and makes a great base for visiting Amelia Island or a good day trip for your beach vacation. The city can offer a little reprieve from the possible hot weather this month, with football season in full swing. One of the most popular games will be the Florida-Georgia Game , with rival Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs in TIAA Bank Field. You can also catch the Jacksonville Jaguars in the middle of their regular season this month.

Hike Florida National Scenic Trail

florida places to visit in october

The Florida National Scenic Trail is over 1,000 miles of preserved trails, part of 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States. The 300 miles of planned trails serve as a hiking location for outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing some of the most interesting wildlife and landscapes unique to the state of Florida.

The Florida Trail is a calming getaway for nature lovers and those seeking peace from everyday life, described as a perfect blend of civilization and nature. Anyone can hike portions of the trail to experience the swamps, lakes, rivers and pine forests that tourists seldom think of when visiting Florida. Treks can run anywhere from 3.5 miles up to 10 miles and October is a great month to go with fewer mosquitoes and cooler weather.

Visit Gainesville

florida places to visit in october

Gainesville is home to University of Florida , the first university established in the state. It’s known strictly as a college town, but has a great group of permanent residents that make the city thrive. The university campus is the center of Gainesville, which is set on swampland that spans over eight state parks in Alachua County.

There’s plenty to explore on a trip to Gainesville, whether you bike the trails of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park , educate yourself at the Florida Museum of Natural History , catch a show in the beautiful Hippodrome Theater or dive into a sea of butterflies at the Butterfly Rainforest. So many natural parts of Gainesville offer an unexpected glimpse into Florida’s historic scenery, landscapes and home life from centuries back.

Most people will be going to Gainesville to see the Gators play football. Whether you watch the game live in the Swamp or view it on the tv screens at the Social at Midtown, you’ll want to make a trip downtown when it’s over. Downtown Gainesville is a charming area that comes alive on game nights with restaurants and shops in close walking distance once you find a parking spot. Win or lose, the crowds will be enjoying the rollicking nightlife all the same.

Best Florida Beaches in October

Florida is surrounded by great beaches you can visit all year. Below we’ve listed the best beaches in each of Florida’s coasts and what the experience will be like in the month of October. October is starting to see the end of hurricane season and serves as a great in-between time before the snowbirds make their way back to Florida’s shores.

Sun Coast: Fun in the Sun

florida places to visit in october

The Sun Coast is a highly marketed area across the country, made up of Tampa Bay’s best beaches. It’s one of the most popular places to be on the Gulf with average water temperatures at 81.1°F (27.3°C) in October. Tampa Bay is not often plagued with hurricanes, though it’s not impossible that they will hit this spot. When they do end up here, they are generally a lower category after coming across the state.

The busiest beaches include Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, but the Sun Coast also has beautiful state park islands off Clearwater and Dunedin. Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park are more secluded islands that are highly recommended by locals and shouldn’t be very crowded in October.

Cultural Coast: Best for Families

florida places to visit in october

The Cultural Coast is another great destination off the Gulf and is our personal favorite. In October, the water and weather will still be fairly warm with ocean temps at an average 82°F (27.8°C). The Cultural Coast offers a great in-between beach experience – not extremely quaint and not extremely ritzy, though certain accommodations can match these descriptions if you look hard enough.

Our best recommendation in this area is vacationing in Anna Maria Island, for the small, casual beach town vibe. But if you’re looking for a little more high-class Longboat Key, Sanibel Island and Captiva are great suggestions. Same as the Sun Coast, it’s less likely for hurricanes to make it this far (especially in October), but will typically have a lower impact when they do.

Emerald Coast: Cool and Calm

florida places to visit in october

The Emerald Coast is the entire Florida panhandle, spanning from Pensacola to Tallahassee. The nature of the towns in this area are a combination of the American South and the Florida Coastline. October water temperatures begin to cool off significantly, preparing for the incoming Winter weather. This month the ocean will average 78.4°F (25.8°C).

Pensacola, Destin and Panama City beaches are some of the most highly recommended vacation spots on the Emerald Coast. These beaches are ideal for families, couples and friend groups, with many activities and forms of recreation to accommodate all types of travelers. October is late in the hurricane season, so big storms and hurricanes will be less likely here.

First Coast

florida places to visit in october

The First Coast is located on the top Northeast side of Florida’s Atlantic shores. It boasts Florida’s oldest cities of St. Augustine and Jacksonville. The water temperatures in the month of October will be cooling down with an average of 79.5°F (26.4°C). Visitors to this area will love the historical aspects of the region, along with the beautifully quiet shores. October doesn’t often see hurricanes, but it’s possible the First Coast could experience one this month.

St. Augustine is a great spot to visit all times of year with it’s historic tours and delicious many local restaurants and bars to enjoy. Nearby Flagler Beach offers a more secluded feeling with pristine, less crowded beaches and Jacksonville Beach is a nice getaway for the whole family. Amelia Island, part of the Sea Islands, is a luxurious spot for an upscale experience.

Paradise Coast

florida places to visit in october

The Paradise Coast is on the Southwest side of Florida, comprised of well-known cities like Naples and Fort Myers, and it’s also closest to the Everglades. The area tends to appeal to an older audience whose families and children will visit for the warm Florida weather. October is generally the time of year that the snowbirds will come back to inhabit the Paradise Coast for the next half year.

The waters are typically warm in October, averaging 82°F (27.8°C). The top beaches on this coast are Marco Island, Naples, and Fort Myers. Hurricanes can become an issue for this area, though October doesn’t typically see too many come through.

Space Coast

The Space Coast is the closest beach area to Orlando, located on the Atlantic side of the state. It’s known as the home of Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral , the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach and the International Speedway in Daytona. Both Cocoa and Daytona have been popular tourist spots for decades, but are usually not busy in October.

This month will have water temperatures averaging 81.3°F (27.4°C). Since the Space Coast is on the Atlantic side of Florida toward the center of the state, it always has a chance of getting slammed with hurricanes. However, October tends to report a lower number of storms, so hurricanes will be less likely as the season comes to a close.

Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast is just above Miami and Fort Lauderdale and has a refined, luxurious atmosphere. It shares the same risk of bad storms and hurricanes with Miami, but with October bringing the hurricane season to a close, there usually won’t be a threat. It’s a beautiful place to vacation and October is pretty quiet with warmer waters at 82.6°F (28.1°C).

Our most highly recommended beach destinations on the Treasure Coast include West Palm, Delray, Pompano, Palm Beach, and Boca Raton. All feature slightly different styles, with West Palm and Palm Beach being the most popular. Pompano Beach has multiple diving sites, Boca Raton is great for recreational activities like golfing and shopping and Delray has a booming cultural district.

The Florida Keys

The Keys are an extremely popular destination all year round. October will have fewer visitors due to its high chance of hurricanes, but the storm chances begin to drop off toward the end of the month. The water averages 82.8°F (28.2°C) and our best recommendations are the beaches on Key West, Key Largo and Marathon, as well as Bahia Honda State Park and the Dry Tortugas National Park .

The Keys are an extremely unique stretch of islands connected by the Overseas Highway. There are many historical landmarks and island tours to take, along with loads of inshore, offshore and on land recreational activities.

The Gold Coast is one of the most famous parts of Florida, housing both Miami and Fort Lauderdale on the Atlantic side. Miami has the highest temperatures in Florida all year, but also has the highest chance of being rattled with hurricanes as Florida’s first line of defense in most circumstances. The beaches are usually less busy in October because of this, with water temps at 82.8°F (28.2°C).

Visitors can always expect Miami to be lively, especially in the bustling downtown area with a culturally diverse crowd. While October can be hot and humid in Miami, the city remains a popular destination all year.

Top Florida Attractions in October

Walt disney world.

florida places to visit in october

Walt Disney World is the vacation capital of the world, therefore it’s Florida’s biggest attraction and remains busy most of the year. Walt Disney World is comprised of four different theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom) and two water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon). Disney is located outside of Orlando in Lake Buena Vista.

October brings drier weather and more mild temperatures. The parks and resorts are mildly crowded this month with moderate resort, ticket and even food pricing (which fluctuates with tourist volumes). Epcot’s popular Food & Wine Festival is still going on this month, along with the happy Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party suitable for families and children.

Universal Orlando

florida places to visit in october

Universal Orlando is Disney’s biggest rival, featuring two different theme parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) along with one water park (Volcano Bay). It’s located on the outskirts of Orlando and has it’s own resort accommodations for guests to enjoy. The parks are known for movie-themed roller coasters, rides and attractions for all ages.

Weather in October will be drier with mild temperatures and only a slight chance of rain. The main attraction this month will be the Halloween Horror Nights in Universal Orlando, geared towards teens and adults. The event is filled with haunted houses and scary creatures and people lurking around the streets, waiting for unsuspecting guests.

SeaWorld Orlando

florida places to visit in october

SeaWorld is most popular for it’s aquatic animals, shows and coasters. It’s very close to Universal Orlando and makes a great full day of entertainment. Sea World has recently added big roller coasters like Manta and Mako to up their thrill game for older audiences. There is plenty for people of all ages to enjoy inside this ocean-themed park.

October brings the fun Spooktacular event for children. It’s a fun nighttime festival that invites kids to come in their Halloween costumes to collect candy and see the animals in a whole new way.

Busch Gardens

florida places to visit in october

Busch Gardens is the biggest theme park in the Tampa Bay area, located in north Tampa. It’s a great option for a full day to add into your weeklong vacation in Tampa, St. Petersburg or Clearwater, about 15 miles from the Tampa International Airport.

Busch Gardens is known for it’s big coasters, like Cheetah Hunt and Kumba, along with it’s African themed animal habitats where guests can see wildlife in designated areas. During the day, Busch Gardens will be hosting Tampa Bay’s Bier Fest, inviting guests to try local brews and special treats.

At night, Busch Gardens’ Halloween event, Howl-o-Scream, starts up. It features a different theme each year and is very comparable to Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. Depending on which city you end up in, these are the events that are best suited for teenagers and older because they can be pretty scary.

florida places to visit in october

Legoland is one of Florida’s newest theme parks located in Winter Haven, right in the middle of Central Florida. It is entirely themed after these popular little toy blocks which have inspired movies, roller coasters and water rides. There’s even a Lego resort where you can stay on vacation.

On weekends in October, Legoland invites families to participate in Brick or Treat. The event includes character meet-and-greets, a scavenger hunt, Lego building contests, and candy collecting. Both children and adults are invited to dress up for the occasion.

October Events in Florida

Halloween zoo bashes.

florida places to visit in october

All around the state of Florida, big zoos in the major cities have nightly Zoo Boos where children and parents can play in the park after dark. Animals can be viewed from their cages in this special not-scary event and you can collect candy at designated areas around the park.

Ghost Tours

florida places to visit in october

St. Augustine is well-known for their haunted historical areas and hosts a variety of Ghost Tours and Pub Crawls all nights of the year. On Halloween, these tours are even more popular, so plan well in advance! Tampa Bay and Orlando have several ghost tours around town, as well.

Pumpkin Patches

Pumpkins are in season and there are hundreds of patches all over the state of Florida in October. Some of the biggest and best include Pickin’ Patch in Dunnellon (near Crystal River), Hunsader Farms in Bradenton (near Sarasota), Hydro Harvest in Ruskin (near Tampa), Cowart Ranch in Bunnell (near Daytona), Bedner’s in Boynton Beach (near West Palm) and Fruitville in Sarasota.

Many tourists don’t think of Florida farmers growing corn when they visit the state, but there are plenty of them farther inland. A lot of the mazes host farmer’s markets and create a different theme to plow into the maze each year. Some of them are scary and more geared toward teens and older, but most are family-friendly. Two of the best in the state include the Harvestmoon Fun Farm in Maskaryktown (near Brooksville) and Long & Scott Farm in Mount Dora.

Fantasy Fest Key West

Fantasy Fest is a fun street party open to the public in the last week of October. The party was initially created to bring more people to the Keys in a season that’s traditionally quiet due to the hurricanes that plague the area. The celebration is adults-only and includes parades, live entertainment, food & drink vendors and costumes.

Pensacola Interstate Fair

Like most state fairs, Pensacola (located closest to Alabama in the panhandle) hosts this annual festival with plenty of fun, games and rides for the whole family. The highlights are the special attractions like the Cirque Ma’Ceo, the live Sea Lion Splash, and Rino’s Reptiles. The festivities include live entertainment and plenty of food and drinks.

October in Florida is beginning to see the change in seasons, waving goodbye to the ugly hurricanes and welcoming the holiday season with open arms. The weather is likely to be cooler this month, with a few hot days sprinkled in, making outdoor activities and Halloween events more exciting and festive.

October is an ideal month for vacationers looking to save some money on travel expenses, since more Florida cities will be experiencing a slow season this time of year. Whether you choose to visit Gainesville or hike the Florida Trail, you’re in for a real treat this month.

Florida in September: Everything You Need to Know

Florida in September: Everything You Need to Know

Florida in November: Everything You Need to Know

Florida in November: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

Outdoors Cult

Florida in October: [Weather, What to Wear, What to Do]

Planning a trip to Florida in October and don’t know where to start? We’re happy to help!

October is one of the best months to visit Florida because it’s the month of the year with the most favorable weather.

With Florida’s cool and calm weather conditions in October, there’s no better month to enjoy the “sunshine state.”

Florida in October

October has a low turnout of tourist crowds, making vacation peaceful and memorable.

Additionally, October is the end of the hurricane season, so there’s no storm issue to deal with during vacation.

Many harvests and Halloween events occur in the tenth month. 

No matter your plans for October’s vacation to Florida, Our writer, born and bred in Florida, has every information you need to learn about the weather, events, places to visit, great beaches, and more. Her local knowledge of Florida will guide you throughout your entire stay.

So, whether you want to learn Florida’s history on a ghost tour, enjoy relaxing moments on the beach, or spend your day around the beautiful theme park, our expert tips will make your stay in the sunshine state the most memorable experience of your life.

Table of Contents

Weather in Florida in October

October in Florida is characterized by warm water and warm temperatures, with the average highest temperature between 26°C to 29 °C degrees Celsius or 80 °F to 85 °F degrees Fahrenheit. 

Keep in mind that this varies from region to region. With an average of 8 inches, monthly rainfall in October is usually on the decline.

The humidity level declines, and the night feels breezy and chilly.

florida places to visit in october

Heat/Humidity In October

Humidity in Florida usually changes rapidly, but it is generally lower than in other months.

In October, average humidity ranges from 54% to 86%, and higher around 4 am or after a heavy rain shower. 

Rainfall in October

Rain, tropical storms, and hurricanes end in October. Although hurricanes are still a possible threat , their chances of creating significant damage are low, unlike the previous months.

There are still a few rain showers in Florida in October . But the intensity of the rain is on the lower side (if it rains at all). The frequency of rainfall may change from daily to weekly or even monthly. 

florida places to visit in october

Keep in mind that south Florida has a higher risk of hurricanes and tropical storms and may experience a bit of downpour.

Any chance of all-day rainfall? We cannot guarantee, but it can rain for a few hours. 

However, afternoons are the most common time of the day for rain in October. 

Water Temperature in October

The warm water temperature in Florida is one of the main reasons for hurricanes in the state. Water temperature increases as you go further south. The Atlantic area has warmer temperatures than the opposing gulf area.   

Where is the warmest water?

The warmest water in Florida is usually around the keys and the southern tip of Miami, which is at 80°F – 82°F(27°C – 28°C) .

The southern region is suitable for activities that require warmer water.

florida places to visit in october

Just be alert against tropical storms and hurricanes. Beaches around the gulf coasts like Tampa beach have a water temperature of 81°F (27°C) , while Fort Myers, Sarasota, and other further southern regions have 82°F (28°C) water temperature. 

Around the north area of the panhandle, you’ll find a water temperature of 78°F.

The Atlantic area of Florida, close to West Palm Beach, has a water temperature of 83°F (28°C) . Cocoa beach and Daytona have 80°F (27°C) .

Best Florida Beaches in October

Florida is blessed with numerous beautiful beaches vacationers visit every year. Here’s a list of the best beaches in Florida and what you should expect from them. 

The sun coast is the most popular area in Tampa Bay, full of luxurious beaches.

It’s an enjoyable place to visit on the gulf, with an average water temperature of 81°F (27°C) . 

On the flip side, Tampa Bay is usually affected by hurricanes. Even if they occur, their effect is less intense.

St Pete beach and Clearwater Beach have the most populated beaches. However, the sun coast also has great park islands. 

florida places to visit in october

The Honeymoon Island and the Caladesi Island State Park are usually secluded. Locals recommend them because they’re less crowded in October.

First Coast

The first coast sits at the top of Atlantic shores in the Northeast of Florida. The beach boasts the ancient Jacksonville and St. Augustine, the oldest cities in Florida.

In October, the water temperature cools to an average of 79.5°F.

florida places to visit in october

The historical part of this region and the fantastic quiet shores attract visitors to this area. 

St. Augustine is a lovely beach to visit for your vacation. Thanks to its beautiful foods from great restaurants and top-quality drinks from its local bars.

Cultural Coast 

Our favorite is the cultural coast, where we chill out with the family. Here, the weather and water are warm, and the ocean records an average temperature of 82°F. 

The cultural coasts deliver an exciting but slightly beachy experience – not so luxurious and not so quaint. 

Like most beaches, a hurricane cannot make it that far in October. 

 Anna Maria Island: Florida in October:

We recommend a vacation on Anna Maria Island in this area, especially for its simple beach town experience. However, if you want something with a little luxurious longboat key, Captiva or Sanibel Island is a good option. 

Emerald Coast

The Emerald coast spans from Tallahassee to Pensacola. The water temperature cools off in October in preparation for the upcoming winter weather. The average ocean temperature in October is 74°F -78°F (23°C – 26°C) .

Some of the most visited vacation spots around the Emerald coast are the Panama City, Destin, and Pensacola beaches.

Pensacola beach

We recommend these beaches because they’re a suitable spot for families and groups of friends and couples. They’re filled with different recreations and activities to accommodate travelers of other races. 

florida places to visit in october

Gold Coast is one of Florida’s most famous coasts on the Atlantic side of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Miami records the highest Florida temperature and places with the highest hurricane risk at a water temperature of 80°F -83°F . Beaches here are not overcrowded in October.

As you probably know, Miami is a lively place for visitors, especially the downtown area with its diverse culture. Although October is usually hot in Miami, the place remains a visitor’s vacation destination. 

Space Coast

The space coast is located around the Atlantic side of Florida and close to Orlando. It has multiple popular attractions like the Kennedy space center in Cape Canaveral and International Speedway in Daytona. These spots have been a popular tourist attraction for decades, and they’re less busy in October. The water temperature is around 81.3°F here. 

Treasure Coast

Treasure coast is famous for its luxurious atmosphere. Located close to Miami, it shares a similar risk of hurricanes and storms with Miami, but that won’t be a threat in October. The Treasure Coast is a beautiful vacation location, and the warm temperature of 82.6°F in October supports a warm vacation.

The most popular beaches on the Treasure Coast are Pompano, West Palm, Boca Raton, and Delray. But they all have a slightly different style.

Paradise Coast

Paradise Coast is located in southwest Florida and is home to famous cities like Fort Myers and Naples. We recommend this area for the older folks whose friends and family may visit to enjoy Florida’s warm weather.

This area usually experiences hurricanes, but the probability is low in October. Here, water temperatures are warm, with an average of 82°F. Feel free to explore the popular beaches in these areas, including Naples, Fort Myers, and Marco Island.

Camping in Florida

Florida has no shortage of unique locations where you can pitch your tent or park your RV. 

From civil war forts to turquoise springs and bucolic beachfront, you have many options for camping in Florida. 

When it comes to campsite offerings, Florida has a little bit of everything for every type of vacationer- from filling Rv hookups to clamping sites and private beach camping.

One of the places we love to camp in Florida is the flamingo campground along Florida bay, where you can unplug. This quiet campground has up to 274 tent sites and 65 RV sites, and a few extra eco tents that house some beds and patios.

Other exciting places for camping in Florida include the campsite at Walt Disney World, Pensacola Beach RV Resort at Pensacola, etc.

What To Wear In Florida in October

What you can wear during October in Florida includes shorts, t-shirts, capris, blushes, and a sweater in the morning and evening.

In addition, you can come along with bathing suits, shoes, and trunks. Although there is only a little rain in the months before October, you should still come with a raincoat.

Comfortable shoes are compulsory for your vacation in October. Your visits may require some walking (for example, Disney world needs up to 10 miles of walk). Clothing items in your suitcase should include but are not limited to:

Walking without comfortable shoes may blister your leg and end up with bruised feet. Don’t wear flip-flops when you’re in theme parks.

florida places to visit in october

Add sandals to support your comfortable shoes. You’ll need them when you want to visit parks in Tampa, Orlando, and more.

Other packing ideas include sunglasses, water shoes( for boating and water sports), sunscreen, water bottle, coolers, portable fan, etc.

Additional info:  Floria’s state hosts different festivals and Halloween this month. Children and adults will be able to mimic the dress style of their favorite characters.

Again, keep a light jacket or a sweater handy during your stay in Florida when you want to dine out in a Florida restaurant.

Because it’s hot outside, many restaurants set the Air conditioning to the lowest temperature. This tip will guide you if you’re easily affected by a cold.

Fishing in Florida in October

Fishing in Florida is peaceful and affordable. Get ready to be reeled in something unique – from panfish to monster bass.

To fully enjoy what Fishing in Florida has in stock, the following fishing destination will be a perfect getaway for your family.

Fishing in Florida in October

Stuart sat on the eastern seaboard of Florida and surrounded by waterways, making it a suitable fishing destination. Nicknamed the “sailfish capital of the world,” Stuart’s emblem is a sailfish.

Fishing here is fantastic year-round with other available activities. This makes it a suitable option for families who want to get busy.

Key west is not only one of the most popular destinations in Florida but also the best fishing destination. 

The location offers offshore and flat fishing with the opportunity to catch saltwater fishes like tuna, bonefish, tarpon, and marlin. Ernest Hemingway, who fished here for decades, can testify.

Florida Keys

Dubbed “the world’s luckiest fishing village,” Destin has the biggest fishing fleet in Florida. Rent a boat to fish offshore with the family.

Or you can just cast a line and hope to get lucky. In addition to fishing opportunities, Destin creates that small town impression with great beaches to cool off, suitable for vacation.

florida places to visit in october

Fort Lauderdale

If you own a yacht or would love a bustling city with exciting nightlife, you may want to fish at fort Lauderdale. Dubbed the “Venice of America,” the town features a canal system with hundreds of boatyards and Marinas.

Things to do in Florida in October

Visit the amelia island.

Amelia Island is close to the state of Georgia and is famous for its amazing white sand beaches, luxurious accommodation, and professional golf courses. Most visitors will look for a fun beach trip, but there’s much to do in the oceans.

florida places to visit in october

The fantastic downtown island, filled with the rich history of British, French, and Spanish influence, has its streets blessed with exquisite restaurants and boutiques.

The Maritime Museum offers opportunities for entertainment and education, and you can also explore the Amelia Island Lighthouse. 

Chill Out On Palm Beach

Palm Beach is a fabulous beach for upscale travelers who want to visit a lovely coastal destination. 

Unlike most beaches in Florida, palm beach packs a lot of style and glamor that makes a beach vacation worthwhile.

florida places to visit in october

The beach is located north of Fort Lauderdale and on the city’s Atlantic coast. 

Henry Flagler, a popular name in Florida (his name is everywhere, from the keys to Florida), lived on palm beach while building a railway across the Atlantic. 

Today his home is dubbed the Flagler Museum with ancient features, making palm beach a historic place to explore. 

Besides the landmark nature of palm beach, there’s still more to discover in Palm beach. A visit to this fantastic beach will unleash more mouthwatering features of this beach.

Experience Walt Disney World

Disney world is one of the most prominent places of attraction in Florida and a perfect, less crowded location in October. Overall, the crowds are average. But remember that some venues are always overcrowded, even in October.

Feel free to enjoy the food and wine festival at Disney in October, including their Halloween party. Hence, there’s so much crowd to expect on weekends. 

Although Walt Disney packs many attractive features like golf courses and water parks, its main attraction is the four theme parks. 

Walt Disney World in October

The attractions and rides in Magic kingdom are indeed magical. For a perfect Disney world experience, we recommend a 5-7 days visit. However, if you only have 2-3 days on your sleeve, explore Animal kingdom and Magic kingdom. 

In a nutshell, dedicate two days to each park in Disney World.

Explore Weeki Wachee

The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a traveler’s favorite every year. Located in Hernando county, this spring not only rose to fame for the presence of mermaids in these waters but also for the fact that no one has ever found the spring’s bottom.

Florida is home to different natural sprigs, but the everyday underwater show makes the Weeki Wachee unique.

florida places to visit in october

Mermaids in Weeki Wachee host these shows using a theme from different folklore and movies to give the audience a magical experience.

Besides watching the mermaids, visitors can ride the spring boats, rent a kayak, or tour the entire spring.

Florida in October | Final Thoughts

October in Florida recently welcomed change in season and goodbyes to storms and hurricanes. The weather is cooler in October with a few hours of hot days, making Halloween and other outdoor events fun and exciting. 

October is the ideal month to visit Florida for tourists who want to save travel expenses. 

Whether you’re planning to visit Disney world or hike the Orlando Trail, Florida is a suitable vacation location. 

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October in Florida: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Angel Ferrer / Getty Images 

Florida Weather in October

Atlantic hurricane season, what to pack, october events in florida, travel tips.

With summer humidity breaking and the Atlantic hurricane season starting to wind down, October is one of the best times of year to visit Florida for the weather alone. In October, high temperatures usually hover between 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, varying by region.

There are plenty of things to do in Florida during the month, including a variety of festive fall events and Halloween celebrations across the state. Whether you're looking to spend a pleasant day at one of the state's many beaches or wandering through a unique cultural celebration, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover Florida in October.

October brings relief to Floridians every year because the summer humidity and rain finally start to slow down. You can expect temperatures near 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) throughout the state, though the northern parts of Florida may experience chillier evening temperatures, especially toward the end of the month.

Another great part of visiting Florida in the fall  is that the water temperatures are still pretty warm, with ocean and gulf temperatures hovering in the low 80s all month long. There is always a possibility of rain, but much less than the rainy summer months and it shouldn’t ruin your plans. If rain does happen, it usually occurs in a short burst instead of a long and protracted storm. Overall, October's climate and weather in the Sunshine State make it a pleasant month to visit.

Each year, the Atlantic hurricane season brings a series of tropical storms and hurricanes to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, including Florida. The hurricane season typically lasts from June 1 to November 30 each year, although mid-August to mid-October is considered the peak of the season. As a result, you should be prepared for severe storms during your trip if you travel to Florida during this period—even if the chances of a hurricane making landfall in Florida are slim.

While October offers a welcome relief from the hot temperatures and high humidity of summer, you'll still experience hot, sunny days this month. Be sure to bring sunscreen and light clothing—as well as your swimsuit if you plan to hit the beach. You'll be comfortable in shorts during the day, but it may be necessary to add a sweater in the evening. This is particularly the case if you'll be near the water, such as taking a moonlit cruise. Bug spray is always useful in Florida as well to repel pesky mosquitos.

October is all about celebrating fall in Florida. From Halloween "spook-taculars" to autumnal festivals , there are lots of fun activities happening across the state. However, fall and Halloween events aren't the only things happening in Florida this month; you'll also find plenty of cultural celebrations and events dedicated to food, motorcycles, and even reptiles.

Many events in 2020 are scaled back or canceled, so be sure to confirm details on the individual organizer's webpage.

  • Biketoberfest :  Daytona Beach's must-attend fall tradition for bikers draws in over 100,000 visitors each year for food, live music, and lots of speed-worthy events over four days in mid-October. While most of the large scale events are canceled in 2020, several of the local businesses that make up the event are open.
  • Busch Gardens' Howl-O-Scream :  One of Florida's most popular Halloween celebrations, this annual spooky event at Busch Gardens in Tampa transforms the entire park with haunted houses, scare-worthy actors, and festive decorations for the entire holiday season. Howl-O-Scream is open on weekends from September 25 until November 1, 2020, but advance tickets are required to enter and the maximum capacity is limited.
  • Epcot International Food & Wine Festival :  Enjoy a celebration of the world's greatest foods and cuisines combined with continuous entertainment, live music, and celebrity chef appearances. The 2020 festival is a modified version without much of the hoopla that generally accompanies the festival, but guests can still enjoy delicious plates that are served in areas throughout the park. In addition, the 2020 version is extended until at least winter, so visitors have more time to have a taste of one of Disney's most popular events.
  • Fantasy Fest :  Experience Key West's wacky, adult-only Halloween celebration full of off-the-wall events, parades, nudity, and lots of drinking. Considered the Mardi Gras of the Keys, the 10-day celebration includes costume contests, body artists, and all-day drinking events throughout late October. Fantasy Fest 2020 is canceled but returns October 22–31, 2021.
  • Halloween Horror Nights :  Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights is one of the country's largest and most elaborate Halloween events wherein the entire park is turned into a frightening scare zone filled with haunted houses, ghoulish characters, and lots of screams. While Universal Orlando is open in 2020, Halloween Horror Nights is canceled until 2021.
  • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: This special ticketed event on select nights at Disney World's Magic Kingdom features "Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade," Mickey's Mouse-Ka-Rade costume parties, Halloween storytelling, live shows, and a special Halloween-themed firework display above Cinderella Castle. During the event, families also enjoy a complimentary photo, unlimited use of the attractions, and opportunities to trick-or-treat throughout the theme park. Disney World is open in 2020, but Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is canceled until 2021.
  • SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular:  Halloween meets the sea during SeaWorld Orlando's underwater "fantasea," where youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaids, and pumpkin fish. Kids can enjoy the event on weekends from September 19 until November 1, 2020. The event is included with park admission, but in 2020, advance reservations are necessary due to the limited capacity.
  • Rattlesnake Festival : This annual festival in San Antonio, Florida—just outside of Tampa—celebrates local wildlife alongside a massive arts and crafts fair. Serpents are the main draw of the festival, and curious attendees can hold, touch, and learn about local rattlesnakes. Visit this unique Florida event at the Pasco County Fairground from October 17 to 18, 2020.
  • With kids back in school, Florida theme parks are not too crowded during October. Each has its own Halloween festivities and celebrations—some requiring special after-hours admission. Order tickets to theme park Halloween events ahead of time for discounts and to avoid waiting in line.
  • Expect bigger crowds at major attractions like Disney World on "Columbus Day" (the second Monday in October observed as Indigenous Peoples' Day in other states) and Halloween weekends.
  • While the summer humidity may have come to an end, mosquitos are still out in full force this time of year. Be sure to bring or buy bug repellant if you plan to spend a considerable amount of time outdoors during your trip.
  • Due to the chance of hurricanes being higher in October—especially earlier in the month—prices at resorts, hotels, and even airlines will be cheaper this time of year.

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florida places to visit in october

Florida In October 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

Are you ready to start planning your October getaway?

Look in no other place than Florida for the perfect destination this fall!

Boasting stunning beaches and a mild climate, October is one of the best times to visit this popular tourist destination.

From beachy days to exciting nightlife and safaris, there’s something to see and do that will make every traveler happy.

With its mild climate, incredible attractions, and stunning views, it’s a must-visit state when it comes to travel in the US.

Though there can sometimes be surprising hurricanes in October, Florida generally has pleasant weather compared to other parts of the US during this time.

That makes it an ideal spot to experience all sorts of outdoor activities, explore different attractions, and take scenic nature walks.

From swimming with manatees to kayaking on crystal-clear springs – whatever adventure you choose, Florida in October will not disappoint!

Regardless of your interests or budget needs, you can have an unforgettable vacation experience in the Sunshine State during October!

Read on to find out why you should plan a trip around modern Miami vibes or take an adventure through one of Florida’s amazing national parks –– let’s dive into all things Floridian this Fall!

Table of Contents

Florida in October

October is the best month to visit this southern state and all its attractions!

With its warm weather and endless activities to choose from, it’s no wonder why so many people enjoy vacationing there.

From the beautiful beaches to the intercoastal waterways, you’ll find something amazing every day.

The weather is perfect – clear skies, balmy temperatures, and refreshing breezes.

No matter what your taste or interests are, you’re sure to have an incredible time in Florida this October.

Whether you want to spend a day shopping in Miami or exploring Everglades National Park near Key Largo, there’s plenty of natural beauty and culture to explore.

And with average daytime highs up around 80-83F (28 Celsius)  and lows around 63F (17 Celsius), it’s the perfect time of year for travelers who want warm weather without being bogged down by excessive humidity.

There are plenty of fun activities that can be enjoyed in October, such as taking a beach stroll on the coast or exploring nature trails in the Everglades.

Another popular option is visiting one of Florida’s famous theme parks. Busch Gardens and Disney World are among the most popular destinations for an unforgettable Florida experience.

Finally, if you’re looking for a more laid-back approach, fishing on Lake Okeechobee or shelling on Sanibel Island are both perfect ways to spend time relaxing with family or friends.

No matter your preference, there is something in Florida for everyone this October!

florida places to visit in october

Traveling to Florida in October

October is a great time to travel to Florida. It is an ideal time for those looking for some fun in the sun.

With temperatures mild enough to beat the heat but not so hot that you can’t enjoy your time outdoors, October provides a great chance to soak up some rays and take in all of what Florida has to offer.

The days start off warm but cool off in the afternoon, perfect for experiencing everything The Sunshine State has to give.

Plus, with its long coastline of both gulf and Atlantic shores, you can find plenty of opportunities to explore nature or take part in exciting water activities like boating, fishing, or surfing.

In the north of the state, you can view the fall foliage while exploring its many historical sites.

And further south at the beaches, mornings are typically perfect for strolling down the beach or fishing off of the pier while the afternoons offer plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Whether it’s a coastal getaway you’re after or an adventure further inland, Florida has something for everyone come October.

For a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Florida’s beautiful weather in October makes it an ideal destination for travelers of any age.

So don’t miss out on the perfect blend of weather and exploration –  head to Florida this October!

Weather in Florida in October

October in Florida brings a wide range of weather conditions, ranging from hot and humid to occasionally cool and dry.

During the day temperatures often reach up to 82°F (28°C) with pleasant evenings dropping down to as low as 63°F (17°C).

The chance of rainfall throughout October is high and there will likely be anywhere from 7-10 days with precipitation.

It’s important to bring or plan for layers if you plan on spending time outdoors since the temperatures can fluctuate during the day.

In addition to being comfortable, October is also an ideal month for taking advantage of Florida’s beautiful beaches.

With both temperatures and humidity levels still quite low compared to other months during the year, October is a great time for long strolls on the sand and swimming in the warm Gulf waters.

All in all, October in Florida has plenty to offer those looking for a break from cold weather and some exciting outdoor adventures.

Things you can do in  Florida in October

October is a great time to explore all the sunny state of Florida has to offer.

Whether you prefer strolling down the sandy beaches, experiencing wildlife and nature up close in its many parks, or enjoying some of the area’s biggest attractions, Florida has something that every visitor will enjoy in October.

October in Florida serves up a plethora of activities for thrill-seekers, adventurers, and those interested in learning about the region’s unique culture.

For a unique glimpse into their state’s past, visitors can take part in historic reenactments at museums such as St Augustine—the oldest city in America!

Or travel to Discovery Cove and take a leisurely swim with dolphins.

Fishers will enjoy catching barracuda and snapper off the long stretches of beaches, while hikers can explore the Pantianco Trail which leads to an awe-inspiring lookout over Brevard County.

As if that wasn’t enough, keen bird watchers will also marvel at the sight of migratory species that travel through Florida on their way south every October.

Between its beautiful landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant wildlife, a vacation to Florida in October is truly unmissable.

What to visit in Florida in October

October is a popular time to explore the Sunshine State.

There’s plenty to see and do in Florida for the Fall season!  October in Florida is a beautiful time of year and there are plenty of places to visit that can make for a truly memorable vacation.

From the old-world charm of St Augustine to modern Miami beach, each city has something special to offer.

Nature lovers will have plenty to admire from kayaking cave systems in Tampa Bay and biking trails in Fort Lauderdale all the way up to surfing spots along the coastlines of northern cities like Jacksonville.

One must-see is the Everglades National Park – it’s home to all kinds of unique wildlife, from manatees and crocodiles to alligators and wild birds. It’s also home to rugged wetlands and picturesque limestone bridges.

Other attractions in Florida include activities along the beaches; from watersports such as kayaking to suntanning on sun-kissed shores, the months between September and January are the perfect time for beach visits.

Of course, no trip would be complete without travelers visiting some of the many theme parks scattered around such as Universal Studios or Epcot Center at Disney World in Orlando; they’re guaranteed fun-filled days whether you’re traveling with friends or family.

All these sights combine to make October an amazing time to spring into adventures throughout Florida!

florida places to visit in october

Top cities in Florida to visit in October

Orlando is a great city to visit in October because of all the Halloween events that take place there.

Universal Studios hosts its annual Halloween Horror Nights event, which features scare zones and live entertainment based on horror movies and TV shows.

Walt Disney World also gets into the Halloween spirit with special events at its Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom parks.

Tampa is another great city to visit in October because of its many Halloween-themed events. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay hosts its annual Howl-O-Scream event, which features haunted houses and live entertainment.

The city also holds an annual Halloween parade, which is one of the largest in the country.

Miami is a great city to visit year-round, but it is especially fun in October because of the many Halloween events that take place there.

The city holds an annual Zombie Walk, which attracts people from all over the world, and there are also numerous haunted houses and hayrides to enjoy.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a great city to visit in October because of its many outdoor activities.

The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beach, and there are also many golf courses and state parks to explore.

For those looking for a more festive experience, the city also hosts an annual Fall Festival, which features rides, games, and live entertainment.

Key West is a great city to visit in October because of its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful weather.

The average high temperature in October is 86 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect time to enjoy the beach or go for a swim in the ocean.

There are also many festivals and events taking place in Key West during October, including the Fantasy Fest street fair and parade.

Visit Orlando in October

October is an excellent month to visit Orlando.

One of the main attractions that appeal during this time is the warm and mild weather, allowing visitors to explore some of the city’s most popular outdoor attractions in comfort.

From lush gardens surrounded by stately cypress trees at Harry P. Leu Gardens, to thrilling roller coasters at Universal Studios, there’s something for everyone in this Florida city.

Whether you’re looking for a unique waterside view at Lake Eola Park or you want to cool off with a dip in the swimming pool at Wet N’ Wild Park, Orlando has plenty of activities for visitors to explore.

For families, Orlando offers numerous kid-friendly activities including theme parks, aquariums, and shopping centers with special events throughout the month.

Take a walk around one of the many parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld.

But October is perhaps best known and celebrated in Orlando for its impressive lineup of annual festivals focused on food, art, and music that appeal to travelers from all walks of life.

Those looking for a fun night out can also find plenty of nighttime entertainment such as nightclubs, bars, and live shows featuring some of Florida’s best performers.

No matter what piece of Florida’s charm you’re looking to explore, there’s something exciting to do while visiting Orlando in October!

Disneyland in Orlando

Visiting Disney World in Orlando in October can fulfill a childhood dream for many visitors.

Being able to explore all the parks, experience the rides, and meet beloved characters that have grown up with us can be an exciting adventure.

The magical atmosphere of Disney World during this time of year is especially nice because it carries on a little bit of warmth as cooler temperatures arrive.

Of course, no visit is complete without experiencing the enchanting wonderland of Main Street, Fantasyland, and Adventureland at Disneyland Park or discovering a world beyond imagination at EPCOT theme park.

With so much to do and see at Disney World in Orlando during October, it’s sure to be an exciting and memorable trip!

Universal Studio

Visiting Universal Studios in Orlando in October is an absolute dream!

The theme parks offer some of the most memorable experiences that can’t be missed.

You’re guaranteed good weather, no crowds, and eye-popping roller-coasters, plus all the other antics like pumpkin carving, interactive live shows, and musical performances!

Whether you want to embrace the spooky vibes or wander around with a margarita in hand, this is the perfect place for that ultimate vacation experience.

So what are you waiting for – it’s time to get planning and make that trip to Orlando happen this October!

florida places to visit in october

Visit Miami in October

Miami is a fantastic city to visit in October.

With its warm temperatures, beautiful beaches, and other attractions such as the Art Deco District and Viscaya Museum and Gardens, it’s no wonder that Miami is consistently ranked as one of the top cities to visit in Florida.

The city’s culture and nightlife are unmatched. From the Latin-infused Calle Ocho to the trendy Wynwood Arts District, there’s something for everyone.

October also brings festivals that will have you immersed in a vibrant celebration of music and culture.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation on the beach or an exciting night out exploring the city’s dance clubs and restaurants, take advantage of all that Miami has to offer in October!

Surf on Miami Beach

Every October, Miami Beach is a hot spot for surfers looking for the perfect wave.

The area has some of the best beach breaks in Florida and waves that are perfect for surfing or bodyboarding.

With temperatures in the mid-seventies and crystal blue water, it’s hard not to love this time of year.

The mild temperatures often bring out experienced surfers and novices alike to enjoy all that Miami Beach has to offer.

After a day in the sun and soaking up the warm Atlantic Coast breezes, one can’t help but agree that it’s a great way to spend a day!

The most interesting things you can do in Florida in October

Florida in October is a great place for adventure. For starters, visitors can take a nature walk through Apalachicola National Forest, which is the largest National Forest found in the Sunshine State.

The area is abundant with wildlife and wildflowers from spring to autumn, making it a true nature lover’s paradise.

Visitors can enjoy scuba diving or kayaking in the crystal clear waters along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Tourists can also visit some of the state’s top attractions such as Legoland, Bush Gardens, and Disney World to get their fix of family fun.

Of course, no trip to Florida would be complete without a day at the beach!

Experiencing golden sunsets over the sparkling ocean waters of Florida’s Coastline is an experience you won’t soon forget.

With so many fun activities and breathtaking views available throughout the state, Florida in October is truly the perfect destination for exploration and enjoyment!

The Top Tips for Traveling to Florida in October

October is a great time to travel to Florida for many reasons.

The warm, sunny weather typically lasts throughout the month and you can enjoy comfortable temperatures as well as fewer crowds.

To help you make the most of your trip, here are some essential pro tips for traveling to Florida in October.

With these tips in mind, your October getaway to Florida can be an unforgettable experience.

When planning your trip, it’s important to make sure you pack everything you will need for your adventure.

Lightweight and breathable clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, and sandals are highly recommended for the warmer days in October.

It’s also wise to plan an itinerary that includes outdoor activities like swimming or hiking so that you can get the most out of your trip.

Be prepared to come face-to-face with some of Florida’s amazing wildlife – bring a camera!

Finally, don’t forget to book early if flying since flights tend to fill up around holiday weekends.

With these great tips, your Florida vacation will be sure to be one for the books!

Additional quick tips before you go:

Make sure you’ve checked the weather forecast before you leave…

Stay sun safe – bring sunscreen

Pack light, comfortable clothing.

Bring a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water

Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.

Visit popular attractions early in the day or later in the evening to avoid crowds.

Plan your days so you can relax and enjoy your vacation.

Be prepared for rain showers, as they are common in Florida in October.

In conclusion

October in Florida is the perfect time of year to explore the warm sunshine and enjoy the amazing scenery.

With events like Fright Night at Universal Studio, pumpkin-picking festivities, and some of the best football games in the country, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Florida in October.

Even if you’re not looking for thrills or spooks, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy.

Whether it’s taking a trip down the Chassahowitzka River or visiting Honeymoon Island State Park, Florida is an ideal destination for hikers and sightseers alike.

All in all the Sunshine State offers plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation this month.

With the warm temperatures and sunny skies, it’s easy to enjoy any outdoor activity you choose.

Travelers will love the variety of activities available, from wildlife viewing to culture-rich experiences.

Whether your taste runs towards nature or urban life, there’s something for everyone in Florida during October.

Get out and explore this amazing state or simply relax on the beach and soak up some sun.

There’s no better way to spend your vacation than in charming Florida during October!

More destinations to discover:

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The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better Weather, and Travel Deals

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, hit the theme parks, or explore the Sunshine State's cities and small towns, these are the best times to visit Florida.

florida places to visit in october

Aside from beaches, theme parks, and nonstop sunshine, one of Florida's biggest draws is that there's never a bad time to visit. The weather is warm all year round, so you'll never have your plans dashed by a snowstorm or need to pack a winter coat.

Florida does, however, have weather concerns of other types, from blazingly hot summers to the dreaded hurricane season. There are also crowds to account for, as well as fluctuating prices on travel essentials like hotels and flights. The tourist seasons in Florida vary by destination, but in general, North Florida's popularity peaks in summer and tapers off in winter, while South Florida hits its peak in winter and is less popular during the summer months. Throughout the state, the fall and late spring (once spring break ends) are typically known as shoulder seasons.

The best time to visit Florida depends on your specific needs — the purpose of your trip, plus your itinerary, budget, and more — but the bottom line is that the Florida vacation of your dreams is within reach, as long as you plan accordingly.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Smaller Crowds

Avoiding the crowds in Florida is a tall order. It's a desirable place to be, and visitors flock to the state all year round. However, some months are quieter than others. In South Florida, for example, high temperatures and storm risk make the summer months the least busy. At Orlando's theme parks and many of the state's best beaches , though, you'll find thousands of families out and about in the summer. For these family-friendly destinations, a visit when school is in session will likely offer the smallest crowds.

You may not be able to avoid all other tourists on your visit to Florida, but you can do yourself a favor by traveling outside the peak periods. Panama City Beach at spring break, the Florida Keys during lobster-hunting "mini season," and St. Augustine around Christmastime are all hyper-popular itineraries that the crowd-averse may want to skip.

Visitors can also find thinner crowds at any time by visiting under-the-radar destinations instead of the state's well-known spots. Swapping the Everglades for a state park or South Beach for Santa Rosa Island can help you enjoy Florida's famous sun and sights with plenty of elbow room.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Good Weather

Sunny skies and warm weather are two of the main factors that draw tourists to Florida, and no matter when you visit, you're likely to find at least a bit of each. Conditions do vary, though, depending on the time of year and the destination. In Florida's subtropical south, winter — roughly November to April — offers the best weather, with temperatures generally topping out at around 80 degrees. Further north, spring and fall can be the nicest seasons. (In the Panhandle's Walton County , for instance, temperatures in these months tend to hover in the 70s, making for pleasant conditions on land and in the water.)

Florida's summers, on the other hand, are notoriously hot — especially inland, where there's no sea breeze to keep things cool(ish). Most of the state sees both high temperatures and high humidity at this time of year, and with even ocean temperatures passing 90 degrees in recent summers, there's no guarantee that a swim will cool you down. Summer also overlaps with Atlantic hurricane season, which stretches from June to November, and it's known for near-daily pop-up storms, too. If you do choose to visit Florida in the summer, be sure to pack both an umbrella and plenty of sunscreen and drinking water.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Lower Prices

The best time to visit Florida for travel deals and lower prices depends on your destination. If you're heading to the beaches or theme parks, summer is a peak season and you might be hard-pressed to find available rooms, much less a good deal.

But some places in Florida simmer down during the summer months. Take Palm Beach , for example: The island is booming from November through April, but during the off-season (May through October, when the snowbirds head home and the social set jets to the Hamptons), you'll find a glimmer of the quiet town it once was. This is also when nightly hotel rates are usually slashed to a fraction of their extravagant high-season prices. Overall, off-season is the best time to score great deals at Florida's best resorts no matter the destination.

The cheapest months to fly to Florida are typically May (except for Memorial Day weekend) and September. You can score great deals if you plan ahead and aim for just outside your destination's peak season.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Miami

What fun-loving person can resist a visit to Miami ? The Magic City is buzzy, sultry, and unapologetically vibrant. Go in the spring to find fewer crowds, more pleasant temperatures, and plenty of events (like Ultra Music Festival and Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix ), or plan a summer trip if you want to experience Miami at its least crowded — and, yes, sizzle on South Beach like a fresh-cooked tostón.

Winter is a fabulous time to visit Miami — temperatures are mild and humidity is lower — but lots of other people think so, too, so you'll have crowds and peak hotel pricing to contend with. Still, it's arguably worth it to attend Art Basel or a Miami Heat game.

If you like living the high life, we'll let you in on an insider secret: Despite its sweltering weather, August is arguably the best month to visit Miami. August is the only time when Miami's Spa Months , Restaurant Months , and Hotel Months all overlap, so you can treat yourself to the city's best dining, lodging, and pampering at a fraction of the usual cost.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in Florida, a subtropical delight with nice weather year round. But beware of peak tourist season, which begins right after Christmas and lasts until about May. It's beautiful this time of year — there's very little rain, and temperatures are usually in the 70s — but that pleasant environment comes with high prices and large crowds.

Those crowds and prices taper off from May through September, and temperatures typically remain manageable, with summer highs of around 90 degrees. Hurricane season, though, can put a damper on an off-season visit — storms are most common in the Keys in August, September, and October. That said, if you're willing to accept some storm risk and humidity, summer can yield excellent deals.

For extra fun in the Keys, plan your visit to coincide with a festival like the Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March), the 7 Mile Bridge Run (April), the Key Lime Festival (June/July), Hemingway Days (July), the Key West Brewfest (September), or Fantasy Fest (October).

Best Times to Visit Florida's Theme Parks

Summer is the off-season for most of Florida, due to the extra-hot weather and potential for storms, but beach towns and theme parks are the exception to the rule.

Disney World is a popular destination year round; there's nary a day when you won't encounter crowds and long lines at this beloved resort. But if you want a month that's slightly less crowded than the others, try January (after the holiday rush), February, or September (when kids are back in school and Halloween festivities haven't quite kicked off).

It may be convenient for families, but visiting the theme parks during summer break guarantees super-long lines in super-hot weather. Visiting around any holiday is fun thanks to seasonal park decor, but it also means dense crowds — you're not the only one who'll be clamoring for a taste of the holiday spirit. Once Christmas and New Year crowds dissipate, though, a Goldilocks window begins, since winter is the best time to visit Disney World for good weather.

Worst Times to Visit Florida

The Sunshine State contains such a wide variety of destinations that it's almost impossible to declare one season as Florida's worst. But, unless you're a party-hopping college student, there is one time that you'll likely want to avoid: spring break.

A whopping 7.3 million travelers passed through the Orlando airport during the 2023 spring break season — that's early March through the middle of April — and countless more arrive in the state each spring through other airports and by car. Florida boasts beautiful weather in the springtime, and many families, of course, have no option but to travel when their school schedules allow. If you are flexible, though, choosing a different window will likely help you save money and avoid wall-to-wall crowds.

Summer is a risky time to visit, since the weather tends to be muggy at best. Traveling during this off-season can net you good deals, but you'll want to come prepared for the heat and the storms that a Florida summer can bring.

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She Saves She Travels

28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a fall vacation. The hustle and bustle of the summer is gone. Most tourist destinations are like sleepy ghost towns waiting for the rush of holiday travelers. So if you’ve ever wondered where’s the best places to visit in October in the USA – here’s your list.

best places to visit in October, fall foliage with mountains and lake at sunset

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Traveling in the fall, and more specifically, October cannot be beat. It’s the shoulder season for many destinations across the states. That means less crowds and affordable prices. And bonus – beautiful fall colors across much of the USA!

Traveling in the fall is one of the best times to take a vacation. But not every spot is equally as great. That’s why this list of the best fall vacations in the US is highlighting cool spots you’ve seen before, and even better destinations you haven’t heard of. 

maroon bells colorado best places to visit in October USA view of mountains with bright yellow trees and lake reflection

And by the way…I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list . However, I haven’t been everywhere yet (working on it!) so I enlisted some travel blogger friends for help creating this epic list. 

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best fall vacations in the US

This list is covering a lot of the country! From the west coast to the east coast and some spots in between, this map shows a visual, which can be useful when planning your fall getaway.

Best places to visit in October in USA

October is a fabulous time to travel, and these are some of the most ideal spots in these gorgeous United States to see. From popular fall foliage spots to destinations you’ve never heard of, let’s dive into the list!

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

best places to visit in October USA winding road with bright red orange and green trees

Average temp:  high 62, low 41

Stretching 469 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive), the Blue Ridge Parkway is widely regarded as one of America’s most scenic roads.

More than 15 million people using the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) each year, making it the most visited of all the national park units in the United States. So it’s also arguably the most popular!

The BRP’s origins date back to 1935, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the historic initiative part of his New Deal. It was designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression.

It took until 1966 to construct the majority of the road, and another 21 years to finish the picturesque stretch from the Linn Cove Viaduct to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. 

The result is an epic and iconic road trip that dazzles with spectacular colors in the fall, when the leaves turn to sun-speckled gems in red, orange, and golden hues. It’s by far one of the most scenic fall drives in the US!!

An autumn drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks (including NC’s Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi); and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and streams. 

There are also some 200 breathtaking BRP overlooks as well as charming mountain towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and  Little Switzerland . 

The best of the parkway’s landmarks include Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park. Each offers opportunities to savor the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine, preserved by FDR for future generations.

Recommended by Bret Love and Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

2. Bend, Oregon (one of the most underrated and best places to visit in October USA)

places to visit in October in usa view of blue lake water with cabin and bright trees and blue sky with reflection

Average temp:  high 62, low 33

While Bend, Oregon is a fantastic destination year-round, the fall is a great time to visit this Central Oregon town. You’ll find far fewer crowds than in the summer months and the crisp autumn air is perfect for many outdoor adventures.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and October is a great time to experience Oregon’s high desert. Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect time of year to hit the nearby trails.

There are a variety of  hikes in Bend, Oregon  for all skill levels and in a diverse range of settings, from pine forests to snowcapped peaks to juniper and sage dotted deserts. You can also get out onto the water on a SUP or kayak or cruise through some of the famed Bend mountain biking trails.

A fun fall activity is to head to nearby Smith Rock State Park for beautiful views and a lovely riverside walk. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the ranch just outside the park that has a large pumpkin patch, food trucks and festive games for all ages.

October is the perfect time of year to hop around the different breweries around town to sample the local brews. If you’re a real craft beer enthusiast, you may want to participate in the Bend Ale Trail, which is run by the local tourism board. Collect stamps at each brewery you visit for a prize!

Recommended by Katie Diederichs of Go Wander Wild

3. Mammoth Lakes, California

mammoth lakes california in the fall view of a lake with bright orange tree leaves and white mountain behind

Average temp:  high 60, low 30

One of the best places to visit in October in USA is  Mammoth Lakes . It’s located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall. The beautiful colorful trees with the mountains in the background make this a wonderful place to stay in October. 

June Lake Loop is one of the best spots to experience the fall colors. There are many lakes to explore on the loop like Silver Lake, June Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake.

The whole loop is filled with stunning yellow Aspen trees, and there are many spots to explore with these beautiful trees. Make sure to stop by Silver Lake Cafe for lunch and watch the stunning views of Silver Lake while you eat.

Another great spot to see fall colors is Convict Lake which is located southeast of Mammoth Lakes . The yellow Aspens are situated at the mountain base, so it is best to walk the whole loop.

You can also visit many of the lakes that are located in Mammoth Lakes Basin. They include lakes like Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George. It’s a magical area to explore in the early cool fall morning. 

There are so many yellow colors in Mammoth Lakes. It is probably one of the most underrated areas to experience fall foliage, and one of the best places to visit in the US in October!

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (one of the best October vacation destinations)

creek with snow yellow foliage on trees and mountains in distance

Average temp:  high 46, low 29

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most beautiful (and popular) national parks in the country.

Located about 2 hours away from Denver, this park takes time ans effort to explore with countless trails, waterfalls and even one of Colorado’s most popular “fourteeners” Longs Peak. 

Rocky Mountain National Park is pure magic during fall, when the incredible golden colors come out in full display. The best time to see them is from mid-September through early October. 

Another thing you should know about visiting RMNP during the fall is that weekends still might be busy, as more people come to take pictures and see thousands of amazing golden-hue Aspen trees. Crowds begin to dissipate in the fall, and if you want the ultimate experience, try to plan your visit for weekday. 

To see the fall colors in their full glory, take a drive along the Trail Ridge Road that is open from Memorial Day until late October. The alpine highway is a perfect way to enjoy the the fall scenery at RMNP without getting out of the car. In fact, the Trail Ridge Road is one of the top Colorado bucket list activity!

Still, try to explore some trails. Take a hike or two to enjoy the fall colors , and if you plan on doing a more challenging trail at a higher altitude, make sure to bring some layers . Temperatures begin to drop in the fall, and it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you, especially if you plan on camping here. 

Note: through most of October, the park requires a timed entry permit. Plan your trip in advance and grab your permit here .

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

5. Door County, Wisconsin

door county WI with bridge town and brightly colored trees

Average temp:  high 56, low 41

Door County, Wisconsin likely isn’t the first spot to come to mind when thinking of amazing fall colors in the United States. However, the colors here are breathtaking , and there are many wonderful activities to enjoy in Door County during fall! 

The colors begin changing during the end of September, and visitors hoping to see the leaves during their peak color should plan to visit the area in mid-October. 

To see some of the best fall colors in Door County, try hiking in Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park and The Ridges Sanctuary, just to name a few spots.

For those looking for a less active leaf-peeping experience, be sure to take a drive along Highway 42. You can also see the leaves from above at viewing platforms, such as the newly constructed Sturgeon Bay Maritime Museum Lighthouse Tower. 

Fall is also a great time to visit the apple orchards in Door County. Be sure to stop by Wood Orchard Market, where you can get awesome seasonal products such as their special apple cider donuts! 

With the cooler fall temperatures, cozying up to a fire during a traditional Door County fish boil is one of the best  things to do in Wisconsin  at this time of year. Fish Boils are fun to watch and delicious. Each boil master makes theirs a little differently but, you can count on all recipes using white fish and various vegetables and spices boiled in a large kettle over an open fire.

Door County is an underrated destination, and definitely one of the best places to visit in October USA!

Recommended by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

6. San Diego, California

california shoreline with ocean trees grass and buildings along coast

Average temp:  high 74, low 61

Listen, San Diego has amazing temperatures most of the year, so there’s not really a ‘bad’ time to go. However, as someone who’s traveled to San Diego many times in the fall, I can truly say that October is a fantastic time to visit this amazing city!

Less tourists visit San Diego in the fall, so there’s not as many limitations to amazing activities because of overcrowding. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is a fantastic spot to explore. It’s really enjoyable in the fall when you can see what you’re there to see, instead of waiting all the time.

An amazing activity in the San Diego area is kayaking in La Jolla Cove in October. Other top things to do include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island.

By the way, here’s an idea of how to spend a weekend in San Diego if it’s on your short list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

7. Oahu, Hawaii (top of the list for warm places to visit in October in USA)

warm places to visit in October in usa view of beach looking down with palm trees and blue water

Average temp:  high 84, low 69

The island of Oahu has beautiful weather throughout the year but fall is one of the best times to visit. At this time of year, you can expect fewer crowds around the island, plenty of days with clear blue skies and the island is still really warm so you can spend your time lying on the beach.

While it may be hotter in the summer months, the fall actually offers a more enjoyable temperature so you can get out and explore the island. 

One of the highlights of any visit to Oahu is exploring the many beaches dotted around the island. The most beautiful beach on Oahu is Lanikai Beach , which is a palm tree lined stretch of brilliant white sand and crystal-clear blue water.

As it’s on the east side of the island the water is usually quite calm so it is ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are feeling energetic you can kayak out to the Mokalua Islands which are just a few hundred metres from shore. 

Another great activity is to explore Kualoa Regional Park, which is where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. You can explore the park on foot or take a quad bike tour. The mountains here are unique with their deep ridges and tropical green coverings.

During a visit to Oahu you can also snorkel, surf, hike, visit local farms to try fresh fruit and so much more. It’s an amazing island and the weather in particular makes this a perfect fall getaway.

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

8. Acadia National Park, Maine (a top choice on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

best places to visit in October USA view of multicolored fall foliage with ocean in distance

Average temp:  high 55, low 38

Acadia is among a very small group of US national parks with two genuine ‘peak’ seasons. Summer is naturally congested in Acadia, but fall is equally as busy and because of the spectacularly beautiful Autumnal foliage lighting up the park.

But striking colors aren’t everything and the fall season is loaded with other benefits in Acadia National Park. 

Hiking conditions are cooler in September and October, which comes in particularly handy when climbing both of Acadia’s adrenaline pumping hikes – Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail.

Beehive and Precipice are the two outstanding hikes but there are a dozen other trails without ladder climbing elements. All of which summit with remarkable views over the Gulf of Maine, gorgeous lakes, tiny islands and of course mountain sides covered in vibrant orange, yellow, red and green trees.

Epic sunrises are one of Acadia’s greatest assets and from the summit of ultra-popular Cadillac Mountain, you can be among the first people in the US to see the sun rise over the eastern horizon. In fall, sunrise is over an hour later than in summer, which means a slightly less agonizing alarm time.

To see the richest and most vivid colors, simply get stuck into all of the  best things to do in Acadia National Park , including hikes, lakes and carriage roads.

Pro tip: Be sure to book Bar Harbor accommodation a long way in advance to avoid missing out and always be out in the park early, parking spaces are limited and fill quickly each day.

Without a doubt, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in October in USA.

Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?

9. Moab, Utah

arches national park hikes photo of large orange arch with desert scene behind on partly cloudy day

Average temp:  high 74, low 41

Moab, Utah is an adventure city in the Southwest USA. With countless national parks, state parks and recreation areas surrounding Moab, it’s truly an amazing place to vacation.

It makes this list of the best places to visit in October in the USA because the weather usually hasn’t turned too wintry yet to enjoy the outdoors. And in the summer, Moab is packed with tourism!

If you love hiking, October is the perfect time to explore Arches National Park by foot or hike Canyonlands National Park . There’s also white water rafting, canyoneering, wineries and breweries and so much more.

Visitors should still book accommodations as far out as possible to get the best pricing. And be sure to book any tours in advance since Moab is a hot spot!

Related: 30 Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Best October vacation destinations

Some amazing spots have already been covered, but some of the best fall foliage in USA continues…

10. Asheville, North Carolina

beautiful waterfall surrounded by orange and yellow fall foliage in Asheville NC

Average temp:  high 68, low 46

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the best places in the US to experience fall.  The mountains are blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves, the weather is perfect and the orchards are open. 

While it may be the busiest time of year, it’s well worth the visit, but try to time it for a weekday visit instead of the weekends.

Be sure to spend some time walking around downtown Asheville and wandering the shops of the hip West Asheville area.  Visiting the Biltmore Estate is also a must-do. 

There are so many amazing places to eat in Asheville, you’ll be able to try new, delicious food for every meal. Tupelo Honey and Gan Shan West are great options.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is driving part of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and the best time to  drive the Blue Ridge Parkway is fall . There are tons of hikes to waterfalls nearby like Linville Falls, Looking Glass Falls, or Moore Cove Falls. 

Visiting Asheville in the fall makes all of these things even better than they normally are because you get to see them surrounded by stunning fall foliage, and who doesn’t love that?  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

11. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (a PNW fave on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

mount rainier in autumn with large mountain trees and fall foliage best places to visit in the US in October

Average temp:  high 47, low 33

Within the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier National Park boasts vibrant autumnal colors not only on the leaves of its famously grand trees, but also from the wildflowers, succulents, and other fauna carpeting the park’s rolling valleys.

If you’re looking for some of the best spots to see the fall colors, head to the Skyline Trail Mount Rainier, a 5.5 mile hike that takes you up close-and-personal with Mount Rainier and meanders through meadows aflame with autumnal foliage, from the vibrant red of scarlet paintbrush to the flaming orange of elderberries. 

Alternatively, check out Naches Peak Loop, a part of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses colorful subalpine valleys bursting with autumnal colors while snowy Mount Rainier looms overhead.

For a lower impact way to enjoy the fall foliage, take a scenic drive through the Chinook Scenic Byway. It’s a 107 mile road that will take you through both Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest.

This drive provides a gorgeous tour of rushing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and of course, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains’ beautiful fall colors.

With stunning autumnal foliage, world-class hiking, and a variety of activities for all types of travelers, Mount Rainier in the fall is a fantastic place to explore. 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Boston, Massachusetts

statue in fall foliage with city in distance in downtown Boston MA

Average temp:  high 62, low 47

Fall is the ultimate time to visit New England. From “leaf-peeping” in parks to crisp weather and apple-picking, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the region from all over the world. If you’re seeking a combination of a city break and a fantastic fall destination, consider Boston.

Boston is teeming with history, green spaces, restaurants, and quaint neighborhoods to charm any visitor. Known as the “Cradle of the American Revolution,” don’t miss the Freedom Trail .

It’s a 2-mile, largely flat walking path that traces various sites of historical importance, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the beginning of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, and the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown.

The Trail kicks off at the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest city park in the U.S., dating back to 1634! As you walk, you will also discover other lovely fall destinations, such as the Beacon Hill neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Be sure to stop at Acorn Street, said to be the most-photographed street in the U.S .

For some Victorian splendor, visit Copley Square and the Back Bay, gazing up at its two beautiful churches and the Boston Public Library – certainly one of the city’s most picturesque places. In particular, the Library’s Bates Room, with its glowing lamps and vintage books, will give you major “back-to-school season” vibes.

Nearby, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall has gorgeous trees in blazing fall colors – one of the best places to check out fall foliage in town . There are also a variety of parks to discover if foliage is what you seek, including the Fens, the Emerald Necklace parks system and the Public Garden. 

Boston is certainly one of the best places to travel in October in USA, especially if you love history!

Recommended by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

13. Napa Valley, California (a favorite of these fall vacation ideas)

Napa valley california in autumn view of winery with fall foliage and road with hills

Average temp:  high 77, low 47

It’s without question that the beautiful  Napa Valley  region in California is one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the USA. The normally vibrant green of the grapevines turns to shades of yellow, gold and orange in Napa Valley. And as the weather cools, the leaves start to fall, leaving a carpet of orangey gold underfoot.  

Napa Valley is actually a region featuring a collection of towns in between the vineyards and rolling hills. The area is a really easy drive from the best things to do in San Francisco , and will take around 1.5 hours. Having a car is a great idea in Napa Valley so that you are able to hop between wine tastings and towns at your leisure.  

For a spectacular view, Artesa Wines is a great choice for a wine tasting as the large-windowed cellar door sits stop a hill providing great panoramic views of the surrounding valley.  

Auburn James, just outside St Helena, is also a beautiful winery to stop in at, with a gorgeous tasting room. It is worth noting that booking in advance for your tastings is always a good idea and usually involves a small payment.  

Once you’ve finished your wine tastings, head into the township of St Helena for dinner at the Farmstead – a stellar farm to plate restaurant pairing local wines with delicious food.  

Recommended by Emma of Emma Jane Explores

14. Chicago, Illinois

chicago bean large reflective art installation with city skyline people and red trees in autumn

Average temp:  high 62, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in October USA, look no further than Chicago!  This fun city is vibrant and full of fall foliage! Plus, there’s a ton of things to do, indoor and out.

While you could spend a week in the city, a Chicago 3 day itinerary would be just about perfect. 

A must-see is Millennium Park and the world-famous “Bean.” October is the  perfect time to witness the ever changing colors of autumn against the Chicago skyline.  The Bean is sort of like the cherry on top of that whole experience!

If you’re into museums, Chicago has so many options to choose from. The Art Institute of Chicago is located downtown within walking distance of many other main attractions. Enjoy works by Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and so many others!

You can  visit the Willis Tower Skydeck , where you can walk out on a ledge over 100 stories up (indoor, don’t worry!) and see the city below.  Another perfect activity is the Navy Pier,  where you can walk, dine and even join in on fun activities like a mirror maze or giant Ferris wheel!

With typically mild weather conditions in Chicago, it’s one of the best US cities to visit in October! Daytime averages in the 60s and nightly about 50 degrees, layers will be your friend!

Pro tip : stay near downtown or within a short metro ride to the city center. It’s a relatively walkable city so be prepared with your cute walking shoes !

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

15. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in the US in October)

kauai view of the napali coast rugged Ridgeline with colorful fauna and deep blue ocean

Average temp:  high 76, low 60

It sounds cliché, but Hawaii is such a gorgeous destination that it’s always worth the visit! However, as someone who has been to this beautiful island chain many times, visiting in the fall is one of my very favorite times to go.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA because it’s the shoulder season so it’s more affordable. Hiking trails and parking lots are generally less full, making it a great time to vacation on this island.

Highlights in Kauai in October

  • See the Waimea Canyon and NaPali Coast. It’s absolutely stunning! 
  • Helicopter tour of the island . Since 80% of it isn’t drivable, this is the best way to see this gorgeous place.
  • Hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail . You’ll have to get advanced reservations to enter the park, but it’s a breathtaking experience!
  • Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in southern Kauai near Poipu. This is and easy walk and offers ocean views nearly the entire way.
  • Snorkel on Anini Beach. It’s one of the most calm spots on the island and a great spot to see sea turtles! (Just be sure to respect Hawaiian culture, keeping your distance from sea turtles and not walk on the coral.)

For the best places to eat in Kauai, it’s easier to get reservations for restaurants (which is recommended for Kauai since it’s a smaller island) in October.

Hands down, Hawaii is one of the very best states to visit in October, and Kauai is phenomenal!

16. Lutsen, Minnesota (an underrated and absolute best fall vacations in the US)

best places to visit in October USA vivid red yellow and green trees

Average temp:  high 52, low 34

A fabulous, unknown place to many for enjoying fall leaf color and waterfalls can be found on the North Shore along Lake Superior in Minnesota. The North Shore is a special place and is only 2 hours north of Minneapolis-St Paul airport.

Duluth is where the journey begins, but for the full experience continue northward two more hours to Lutsen, Minnesota.  It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in USA!

Let’s go! Start the adventure in Canal Park in Duluth, MN with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in the backdrop, while you explore the lighthouse pier and the newly renovated Lakewalk. Your drive will continue with must-see stops at Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse and Temperance River State Park.

Great accommodations can be found in Lutsen or Grand Marais, which are centralized for hiking and lots of activities in the area. An aerial gondola ride over the Poplar River and up the Moose Mountain is an experience not to miss to see the best fall leaf colors !

The window for peak fall color on the north shore varies anywhere from mid-September to early-October. However, the fall colors continue to be stunning in different types of forests at times beyond that window.

If you haven’t yet experienced the North Shore of Minnesota in the fall it’s one to add to your list! There are so many things to do and places to stay, it’s easy to find hotels on the North Shore MN as well.

Recommended by Michelle of Almost There Adventures

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

halloween scene with scarecrows pumpkin heads and city corner behind

Average temp:  high 58, low 46

Welcome to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the town National Geographic Travel has crowned “America’s Greatest Small Town.”

Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. Its location makes it the perfect New England destination for leaf peeping .

Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. The most famous historical portion of the city is located in the south end. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.

When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square.

Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States and is also home to dozens of charming boutiques. These boutiques come to life during the autumn with their seasonal decor and gift offerings.

Be sure to swing by Cup of Joe cafe for a cozy cup of salted caramel hot chocolate or their signature pumpkin spice latte. Lastly, the best thing about Portsmouth, NH is it’s a very walkable town, meaning no car is needed to explore this charming downtown this upcoming autumn season !

Recommended by Nicole of The Abroad Blog

18. Eastern Sierra, California

lakeshore with waves yellow and orange trees with large cabins best places to visit in October USA

Average temp:  high 62, low 38 (varies)

The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous fall getaway destination in the USA. Fall color here is considered second only to New England , so you know you are in for a visual treat if you visit when the colors are at their peak!

From Lake Tahoe in the north to Bishop and Lone Pine in the south, the region is ablaze with foliage colors in the fall. You’ll be mesmerized by the show of yellow, oranges, and reds put on by aspens, willows and cottonwoods. 

Taking a  Highway 395 road trip  is a great way to enjoy fall in the Eastern Sierra. If you prefer to have a base, Mammoth Lakes and Bishop are the largest towns in the area, and make for good bases from which to explore the beauty of the fall foliage all around you.

Doing scenic drives to enjoy the colors is the top thing to do in the fall. There are numerous paved and dirt roads you can drive. Both Inyo and Mono Counties offer the most beautiful drives. If you plan to drive the dirt roads, bring an appropriate vehicle.

The region is also known for its numerous spectacular lakes, so get out onto the water to enjoy the colors on the banks. Boating or kayaking is offered at many lakes. You can also go hiking, to view the colors up close: there are many legendary Eastern Sierra hikes from which to choose.

The Eastern Sierras are certainly one of the beset October vacations USA for lakes, mountains and hiking.

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

19. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (another underrated destination on this list of beset places to travel in October in USA)

best October vacations usa view of mountains with green trees and red bushes on partly could day

Average temp:  high 58, low 39

You’ll hit gold if you visit Shenandoah National Park during the autumn . . . plus orange, red and burgundy.

Shenandoah’s trees shed their green attire. Autumn’s palette paints the forest rusty orange, reddish yellow, and burgundy. Woodland creatures abound, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and bats.

Located less than two hours from Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts hikers and drivers. It’s also a favorite for singles and families to spend a weekend. But book your reservations early for either the park campgrounds or the Skyland Resorts and Big Meadows hotels, as they routinely sell out for the weekend.

The best time to visit is Monday through Thursday as the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam in October at peak foliage times. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia. Speed limit is 35 mph.

Your best bet is to enter the enter at the Front Royal Entrance, stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to get a panoramic family portrait and then head down the road. Stop at a convenient parking lot so you can hike through forests, scale rocky ledges, explore Appalachian Trail stops and watch waterfalls.

Or you can spend 3 hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. It ends at Rockfish Gap Entrance Station, which is also the northern entrance to the  Blue Ridge Parkway .  Shenandoah National Park features 200,000 acres of protected land. Stony Man and Hawksbill peaks exceed 4,000 feet.

This beautiful fall destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, solos or even a friends’ trip!

Recommended by By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Fall vacation ideas

From big cities to wide open spaces, there’s still plenty more places to see on this mega list of the best place to visit in October in the US!

20. Austin, Texas

water falling over rock into pond on cloudy day

Average temp:  high 82, low 60

What a perfect city for a fall getaway! As someone who’s visited Austin a few times, I can honestly say October was my favorite! The weather is way better (i.e. way less hot) than during peak travel season.

Visiting Austin in the fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures. There’s so much hiking in Austin, plus fall festivals, outdoor drive-in movies, pumpkin patches and more.

If you love being on the water, Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. For easy hiking in Austin , consider McKinney Falls State Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt or the popular Mount Bonnell.

Of course there’s live music all over Austin, and let’s not forget the mural hunting, either. Whether you’re going for Insta-worthy shots or just happen to walk by them on your way to get epic cone at Amy’s Ice Cream, you’re bound to find some fun artwork in the downtown area.

October is the perfect time of year to spend a weekend in Austin .

21. Newport, Rhode Island

lighthouse along ocean at dusk best places to travel in October in USA

Average temp:  high 62, low 53

One of the best fall vacations in the US is definitely Newport, Rhode Island. The area has peak fall foliage throughout October.

It’s a small town located on Aquidneck Island and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and sea cliffs. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

The majority of people drive to Newport from somewhere on the east coast. If you’re visiting from further away, you can fly into Providence, Rhode Island, only 45 minutes away. 

One of the best  things to do in Newport  is see the history of the area on the Cliff Walk. You can walk 3.5 miles past the Breakers, one of the Newport mansions, around sea cliffs, and past a few beaches.

Newport’s mansions are renowned for their architecture and history. Some of the mansions were constructed in the early 19th century. Walk around the Wharves (Bannister’s and Bowen’s) in the evening for a variety of food and shopping. 

Newport has lots of delicious places to eat. For breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – a great way to start the day is with their blueberry stuffed French toast!

Your New England vacation wouldn’t be complete without some seafood. At the Lobster Shack, you can find fresh seafood. You can stay at the Marriott Newport if you want to stay in the heart of Newport. The hotel is within walking distance of the wharves. 

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

22. Aspen, Colorado (a top choice for best places to visit in October in the US)

Average temp:  high 58, low 31

Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall foliage settings is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The town of Aspen is perfect for a fall getaway because it’s surrounded by mountains and gorgeous aspen trees. I’m convinced it’s the among the best places to visit in October in USA.

Unlike some other destinations on this list which get vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, aspen trees turn a gorgeous yellow color. And when you get a mountainside full of them, it’s like eye candy!

A gorgeous day trip from Aspen is Maroon Bells Park. The feature is the mountain peak of Maroon Bells, which are surrounded by a lake and gorgeous aspen trees in the fall.

You could spend the day hiking the trails near the Maroon Bells if you love hiking and exploring the outdoors on foot. Note: you’ll want to plan ahead for this one, as reservations are now required to visit. Get your Maroon Bells reservations here .

Other things to do in Aspen include the Silver Queen Gondola, drive Independence Pass, visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and of course, shopping and dining in Aspen.

So whether you’re making the fall foliage in Aspen the focus of your trip or you’re combining it with an epic Colorado road trip , Aspen will surely be a highlight for a fall vacation!

23. New York City, New York

New York City skyline with pink sky and buildings lit up

Average temp:  high 64, low 50

New York City is amongst the best places to spend fall in the United States. The city is known for its beautiful fall colors and even a bit of Indian summer if you’re lucky.

New York can get very hot during the summer so the fall is the perfect time to enjoy the city without the heat. Fall is a lot more comfortable for sightseeing and you’ll love the views of the city. 

If you’re traveling with older kids, this New York weekend itinerary with teens is the perfect mix of activities.

Head to the Highline Park which is a former elevated railroad track that has been converted into a walkway. It’s the perfect way to see the city without having to deal with the traffic and busy streets! 

For an even better view of the city, you need to go all the way to the top of the One World Trade Center . This modern skyscraper is a must-see and truly the best place to take pictures of the city.

Afterward, head to the river for an evening cruise. There are tourist boats that will take you around the Hudson and East River.

However, for a more affordable option just take the ferry to Jersey or Staten Island. The ride won’t be as long but tickets only cost a few dollars and you’ll get to avoid the tourist crowds.

A trip to New York City is one of the best October vacations USA and one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

24. Zion National Park, Utah (another favorite on this list of best places to travel in October in USA)

Zion national park large canyon looking down with trees and road best places to visit in October USA

Average temp:  high 66, low 39

Zion National Park is simply stunning any time of year. However, it’s especially amazing to visit this national park in the fall.  With dwindled crowds and less intense weather to worry about, Zion is a great idea for a fall vacatio n!

If you want to hike the infamous Angels Landing, advanced planning is required, as the permit application process is during the summer. But, if you happen to get a permit for the hike, October is a phenomenal time to do it!

Of course, there are many things to do in Zion without hiking this challenging trail.  The much easier and yet equally rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail is a fun one, and can be completed for most fitness levels . At just a mile, this trail offers absolutely incredible views of the park!

A place for all ages, this park is magnificent for those young and old. An itinerary for Zion with kids includes other simple hikes like the Riverside Walk. Go further into the canyon by hiking The Narrows!

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in October, the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive is incredible.  You won’t get the traditional vivid colors like some of the other destinations on this list of the best places to visit in October in US, but instead you’ll get amazing desert landscape and massive canyon views. So fun!

Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers for varying weather, hiking snacks and hiking gear like grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack .

Zion is absolutely one of the best places to go in October in USA, and a spot you’ll love!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

best places in US to visit in October - Las Vegas strip with tall buildings at sunset

Average temp:  high 83, low 46

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to visit all year round but fall is a great time to visit. Temperatures begin to cool after the summer and so do the crowds. Plus, visiting mid-week will get you cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Because temperatures are cooler, it means you can take advantage of some of the best outdoor attractions in the city, perfect for those visiting  Las Vegas for the first time .

Enjoy a Gondola ride at The Venetian, watch the Bellagio fountains or watch the volcano erupt outside The Mirage.

Rent a car or join a tour to visit the nearby national parks; Grand Canyon is the most popular day trip option from Las Vegas but October is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Alternatively, head to the unusual Magic Mountains or explore ‘The Neon Museum’ , a gallery of old signage from Vegas hotels of the past. 

In the Bellagio hotel, you’ll find the gorgeous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas and a great indoor activity to enjoy.

Each season, the gardens get transformed and the fall display is the most breathtaking. Expect oversized pumpkins, woodland creatures and tall, entertaining trees. 

For more natural fall colours, head to one of the nearby parks ; Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Paseo Verde Park and Gilcrease Orchard are top choices for this time of the year. 

We recommend staying at The Cosmopolitan; it’s an elegant, stunning hotel and rates are normally super high but drop during the Autumn time.

Recommended by Katie of Creative Travel Guide

26. Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)

stone bridge with fall foliage over river

Average temp:  high 69, low 46

Washingtonians and visitors don’t even have to hop in a car to enjoy peak fall foliage in a forest. Rock Creek Park is situated in the nation’s capital.

It’s the nation’s third oldest national park. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890.

Come October, the oaks, American beech and tulip trees suddenly change into the colors of the sunset—golden, orange and red. The 1,754-acre park features hikes for the hardcore as well as weekend adventurer.

If time permits, hike the two primary trails – Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail. They run side by side. Imagine walking along a ladder laid on the ground.

Half-day hikes include Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford, Rapids Bridge and Chestnut Oak/Mountain Laurels.

Or, devote a fall weekend to exploring Rock Creek Park . Tramp around the Civil War fortifications, watch interpreters at the Peirce Mill and Barn and visit the horses.

Bring a carrot or pull on your boots to ride a horse at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, which is the only public riding facility in Washington DC.

Families will definitely want to visit the Nature Center and Planetarium. There are picnic areas scattered across Rock Creek Park, so fill a basket with ciders, sandwiches and apples.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

27. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite warm place to visit in October in USA)

white sand beach teal water red lifeguard stand

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

A Florida beach may not come to the top of mind when thinking about the best October vacation destinations. However, it’s the perfect time to go! And what better way to end this list than one of the top-ranked beaches in the USA!

Siesta Key, Florida is home to turquoise water and some of the finest white powder sand you’ll ever step foot on. While you won’t see much fall foliage here, you’ll see wide open beaches and affordable prices, compared to the peak summer season and those looking for a winter escape.

Fall is the ideal time to visit Siesta Key. The weather is very comfortable and the water is still warm enough to enjoy.

From excellent restaurants, shopping, kayaking and beaching, there’s seriously so many things to do in Siesta Key. Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway as a couple, family, solo or friends trip, you’ll love spending time in Siesta Key!

While a bit unconventional in terms of fall colors, this is still one of the best places to visit in October in the USA.

28. New Orleans, Louisiana

city streets of New Orleans at night with blurred people and lights

Average temp:  high 81, low 62

New Orleans is one of the top warm places to visit in October in USA. It’s a fantastic walking city so it’s an ideal location to visit in the fall when the summer weather has cooled a bit and the crowds have left.

New Orleans is a very family friendly city , even in the French Quarter, or a great destination for a romantic getaway or a fun girls’ or boy’s weekend. 

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. Here you can aimlessly walk along cobblestone streets, poking your head into cute shops, or eating your way through delicious food.

One of the must-try treats is a beignet, a cross between a french pastry and a doughnut. They are easily found in the French Quarter. 

If you’re curious about the history of this area, take one of the many walking tours that will ultimately take you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Here you will learn all about the ghosts, the after-life and even voodoo, themes found all over New Orleans.

A fantastic experience is visiting the National WWII Museum, a short walk from the French Quarter.

This is an exceptional interactive museum that focuses on the United States’ role in Asia and Europe during WWII. It’s a thrilling experience that will grab the attention of anyone even those that aren’t normally interested in history or wars. 

There are countless exciting activities to do within a short drive of New Orleans. You can visit a plantation, like Oak Alley Plantation, and learn about slavery and a difficult part of US history. The drive there is beautiful and exploring the grounds is a lovely thing to do in the fall.

In addition, you can take a swamp tour which is a lot of fun. You hop on a bayou boat and explore some of the many surrounding swamps filled with crocodiles and other wild creatures.

October is the perfect time of year to visit New Orleans due to the cooling weather and reasonable crowds.

Recommended by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Best places to visit in October in the USA

winding road with red yellow orange and green trees best places t visit in the US in October

Whew! What a list. I hope you’ve found enough inspiration for your fall getaway – or 2! With so many amazing spots in the USA to choose from, I’m sure you can’t go wrong!

Let’s recap those destinations again, in a much more condensed list…

Best fall vacations in US

  • Blue Ridge Parkway, NC to VA
  • Bend, Oregon
  • Mammoth Lakes, California
  • Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
  • Door County, Wisconsin
  • San Diego, California
  • Oahu, Hawaii
  • Acadia National Park, Maine
  • Asheville, North Carolina
  • Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Napa Valley, California
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Kauai, Hawaii
  • Lutsen, Minnesota
  • Portsmouth, New Hampshire
  • Eastern Sierra, California
  • Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
  • Austin, Texas
  • Newport, Rhode Island
  • Aspen, Colorado
  • New York City, New York
  • Zion National Park, Utah
  • Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)
  • Siesta Key, Florida
  • New Orleans, Louisiana

So, have you decided? Comment below with your fall vacation plans!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your fall getaway, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Related content: 28 Underrated Destinations in the USA 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love) 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacation Spots in the USA 35 Swoon-worthy Beach Vacations 26 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast 100 Romantic Vacations in the United States

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28 incredible fall destinations in the USA with three images of mountains and fall foliage

Sunday 27th of August 2023

I have actually visited quite a few of these in the autumn (I am from the UK!) I am pleased to say. There are still a few more to tick off though. Fall is my favourite season for visiting the US. I would especially love to see Aspen in the fall. I have only ever seen it in the winter. You have whetted my appetite for another fall road trip!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Oh yay Jane! I'm so glad to hear you've visited so many spots in the US during the fall season. Such a spectacular time to travel! Hope you get to cross a few more off your list soon :)

I've been to Kauai in October and you are correct, it's a great time to go! Warm, sunny and not too crowded either.

haha yes! Although there may not be a bad time to go to Kauai....🤣

Saturday 26th of August 2023

Love this entire listicle! All these places must be stunning during autumn and I'd love to visit some day. Thanks for sharing this!

You're so welcome Kelly. Glad you enjoyed the list!

This list is amazing. I completely agree with Bend, OR as one of the best underrated places to visit! I really want to get out to the northeast at some point to see the fall colors, they look incredible. Thanks for the inspiration.

Oh yay Sophie, so glad you found some inspiration here. The PNW is so stunning in the fall and worth the trip 🧡

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Such an exhaustive list Nikki! I am really glad that I stumbled upon your blog today. Hope to tick some of this list in the next few years though. Kudos on this article and stay safe! :)

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks so much Darryl! It was fun putting an extensive list together. I hope you get to see many of the places on this list!

Harmony Beach Vacations

5 Reasons to Plan an October in Destin

If you’re looking for a place to take your October vacation, look no further than Destin, Florida! The weather is perfect in October – not too hot and not too cold. And the water temperature is still nice and warm so that you can enjoy all kinds of water activities. Plus, there are lots of fun events happening in October in Destin. The Destin Seafood Festival is always a blast, and plenty of other events keep you busy during your stay.

Excited to visit Destin, but not sure where the best restaurants, shopping centers, and beaches are located. Read our vacation guide for all the great picks we have planned for your next visit!

Request Your Own Vacation Guide

The weather in October is Perfect

October is the perfect time to enjoy all Destin offers without summer’s oppressive heat and humidity. The average high temperature in October is a comfortable 82 degrees, with lows dipping down into the 60s at night. And since Destin is located on the Gulf of Mexico, you can enjoy cool breezes coming off the water throughout the day.

Water Temperature is Great for Exploring

October is still a great time to enjoy all the water activities that Destin is known for. The average water temperature in October is 78 degrees, so you can still enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. And October is also a great time to enjoy some of the less crowded beaches in Destin.

The Destin Seafood Festival

One of the best things about October in Destin is the annual Destin Seafood Festival. This event celebrates everything that makes Destin such a great place for seafood lovers. You’ll find tons of delicious seafood to eat, as well as live music and entertainment. The festival takes place on October 7-9th this year, so be sure to mark your calendar!

Other Fun October Events

In addition to the Destin Seafood Festival, many other events are happening in October in Destin. The Harvest Wine & Food Festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves wine tastings, fine food, and live music. And if you’re looking for a fun Halloween event, be sure to check out the Destin Harbor Boardwalk’s Halloween on the Harbor celebration.

October is a Great Time to Save on a Vacation Rental

October is considered shoulder season in Destin, which means you can find great deals on hotels and vacation rentals. So if you’re looking to save money on your October vacation, Destin is the place to be!

Discover your dream fall getaway with Harmony Beach Vacations rentals! Our rentals are perfect year-round and can provide a great home base for you to experience Destin in June. Our selection  of homes and  condos  in Destin and 30A offer fantastic  locations  and  amenities  at rates that  won’t  burn a hole in your wallet.   

Start planning your Destin vacation today by  booking one of our properties ! We look forward to welcoming you to the Emerald Coast. Book our pet friendly vacation rentals on the Emerald Coast here!

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The Family Vacation Guide

florida places to visit in october

Is October a Good Time to go to Florida?

posted by James Brockbank on July 13, 2022 // last updated on July 13, 2022

Florida is a top tourist destination . Millions of tourists head to the Sunshine State to sit under the sun and enjoy its tropical climate. Florida offers tourists everything from attractions, special events, adventurous outings, beautiful beaches, and much more.

The summer season sees the most visitors. School is out, and it is a prime location for vacation. Florida offers many summer attractions such as theme parks, water parks, beaches, and much more. 

The adventures of the sunny state are not limited to the summer. Florida has a lot to offer all year-round. 

Each month has its perks. October is filled with cooler weather, fall festivities, and Halloween-themed events. Florida takes advantage to celebrate as big as they can when it comes to festivities and holidays.  

If you are considering visiting Florida in October, it may be the best time to go. Here are a few reasons why October is a great time to go to Florida.

Weather 

Halloween attractions , haunted houses & attractions, fall harvest festivals, other things to do in florida in october, final thoughts.

The Florida heat is known to be brutal at times. October is the perfect month to visit Florida weather-wise. During this month, the end of hurricane season begins, and daily rain and storms lessen.

The weather is far more pleasant as temperatures begin to drop. It changes from humid and hot to crisp and cool. The weather change is convenient and far more comfortable to enjoy the outdoors. You can spend more time outside relaxed without the urge to run into an air-conditioned location.

florida places to visit in october

The weather is typically warm but breezy, while some days can hotter than others. The average high is about 80 degrees, and the average low is 67 degrees during the night.

Many people do not travel during the cooler months of the year. Tourism during October is one of the slowest and sees smaller crowds – this is an advantage for anyone who wishes to avoid large crowds. Smaller crowds set the tone for a much more relaxed vacation.

During the slower season, the cost of hotels and tourist attractions is cheaper than during the busier months. Tourists and visitors can benefit from lower hotel and flight rates. 

October includes the universally loved holiday, Halloween. Theme parks and attractions celebrate big in Florida. If thrills and scares are your favorite thing to do in October, there is plenty for you to explore and experience. 

You can check out the following best Halloween Attractions in Florida.

florida places to visit in october

Disney World Theme Parks 

Celebrate Halloween at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party with the family. Disney World is the perfect theme park to visit during the holiday season with little ones. It is a holiday experience for everyone of all ages.

You can load up on sweets and snacks as you trick or treat throughout the park and meet your favorite character dressed in a costume of their own. There will be Halloween-inspired food and drinks you can nibble and sip on. 

While you snack on Halloween treats, you can wave to Disney villains and ghouls as they float by a “Boo-to-You” Halloween parade or catch the Sanderson Sisters at their Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. With the help of other Disney villains, Winifred, Mary, and Sarah return to conjure the ultimate party potion to cast a spell on everyone in Magic Kingdom.

End the night watching the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular. The fireworks show is hosted by Jack Skellington and is inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. The dazzling display will feature Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Disney villains.

florida places to visit in october

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Studios is a popular theme park for adult Halloween fun. It has been named the Best Halloween Event by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for 12 years.

The Halloween event features ten haunted houses with The Horrors of Blumhouse, Mike Myers’ Halloween film, and other scary themes. There will also be five scare zones, two live shows, and many more thrilling adventures throughout the park.

The horror has been said to be too intense and terrifying for youngsters and is not recommended for anyone under the age of 13.

florida places to visit in october

SeaWorld Spooktacular

Have a kid-friendly spooktacular time at SeaWorld. You and your family can trick-or-treat during the weekends of September 10 to October 31 st at the marine-life theme park. Along the path of treats, you can meet unique characters dressed as mermaids and sea life characters. Sea World allows all guests to dress up in costumes, with some restrictions for guests 13 and older.

Bring the kids home and head back for a mature Halloween experience at Sea World’s Howl-O-Scream event. The haunting thrills feature scare zones, houses of horrors, nighttime coaster rides, and a live show. This is a separately ticketed night event intended for a mature audience, and costumes are not allowed during this time.

Sea World is the perfect place for family fun by day and terror by night.

florida places to visit in october

Brick or treat with the little ones at Legoland.

Legoland is the perfect theme park for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. The Halloween celebration will feature never-before-seen exclusive Lego characters, new shows, and of course, candy.

florida places to visit in october

ICON Park is the perfect place to go to appease a large group of people who want different things. The 20-acre park offers Halloween fun for everyone of all ages and scares tolerance.

During October, you can purchase the Spooktacular Florida Fun Pack to celebrate Halloween. 

At night, you can enjoy a free light show on The Lawn at 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The Wheel’s lights dance to a Halloween soundtrack for a 10-minute spooky production.

Bring your little ones in costume, and you can hop on The Wheel for a discount. ICON Park offers complimentary tickets for children 12 and under in costume, and family members can ride along with tickets for a discounted half-off price.

ICON Park is located on International Drive at the center of tourist attractions and has free parking.

florida places to visit in october

Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream

Busch Gardens is bringing terror at night in Tampa, Florida. Like many haunted theme parks, it is a frightful adventure with haunted houses and terrifying scare zones. You also get the experience of thrilling rides on roller coasters in the dark.

florida places to visit in october

Old Town Thriller Nights

Old Town is a recreation of a classic Florida town that is transformed into the spooky theme of Halloween during October. The iconic town full of shops, rides, and entertainment is dressed with festive decorations and offers trick-or-treating. There are multiple performances of the classic song, “Thriller.”

For a scarier thrill, you can visit Mortem Manor. The Manor is unlike any other. It is a haunted house open year-round. 

Old Town is in Kissimmee, FL.

For a true horror experience, skip the theme parks and head over to a haunted house where taunting terrors are the main event. 

A Petrified Forest

The three trails at A Petrified Forest are a unique Halloween experience. Dare to walk through the haunted scare trails where lurking creatures and haunters hide.

For the terrifying walk through the trail, you are given one glow stick, but you must be careful. If the glow stick is stolen by a ghoul, you won’t get another. Prepare to scream and run until you’ve made it through with or without light. 

This high-rated event is located in Altamonte Springs and hosts some daytime fun for the younger crew. Kids can trick-or-treat, do arts and crafts and jump around in a bounce house.

Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park

Scream-A-Geddon is for true Halloween lovers. The horror park has been named one of the scariest haunted houses in Florida.

The horror park is home to six attractions: Ravenhill Asylum, Blackpool Prison, Rage 3D, Bloodwater Bayou, Zombie Paintball Assault, and Demon’s Revenge. Each attraction is a uniquely terrifying experience where you will face criminals, rely on your instincts to make crucial decisions, and escape haunting magic. 

You can loosen the tension from fear while you enjoy a beer at Bonzo’s Beer Garden or the new food court, Monster Midway, where you can eat, play games, and drink.

Morterm Manor Haunted Attraction

Morterm Manor at Old Town is a haunted house open year-round. Travel Channel has labeled the haunted attraction as Scariest Haunted Houses in America.

If you dare, you will take a walk through two floors of an Old Victorian setting where there will be frights, thrills, and fun. For more of a daunting thrill and an additional cost, you can hop on “The Last Ride,” a coffin burial simulator of being burned alive. 

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail

Another top-rated haunted attraction in Florida is Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail .

At the high-ranking scary attraction, you will experience several Halloween thrills. There are three haunted trails, two escape games, and laser tag. After you survive the trek through the woods, you can enjoy live entertainment and food.

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is an outdoor event located in Plant City, FL. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. 

The fall season brings the traditional celebration of harvesting crops. People gather at farms and orchards to pick their favorite produce and pose for festive family photos on hay.

Florida brings many harvest festivals and fall adventures during October to keep your days full of entertaining activities.

Carve a pumpkin, go apple picking, sip on cider, and feast on good food and drinks at these fall harvest festivals.

Harvest Festival at Flamingo Gardens

Throughout October, Flamingo Gardens hosts a family-friendly Harvest event. You can enjoy hayrides, and a pumpkin patch, enter a costume contest, and the kids can have fun in a bounce house. 

There will also be live character interactions, arts and crafts, and a Great Scarecrow competition. Each weekend is themed differently. You can have your pick your day to celebrate with pirates & princesses, superheroes & villains, or creatures & critters.  

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival makes its way to Walt Disney World beginning in July. You can get a savory taste of food and beverages from around the world. The festival features over 30 global marketplaces throughout the park. Anyone of age can sip on wine, beer, and spirits as you experience exotic dishes.

The event is fun for everyone of all ages with activities for the whole family. There will be culinary demonstrations, seminars, celebrity chefs, and live music concerts. The Food & Wine Festival runs from July 14 to November 19, 2022, at Epcot Center in Lake Buena Vista.

Chalk Festival

Head to the Chalk Festival in Venice, FL and see the stunning artwork by renowned artists from all over the world create 3D illusions and fine art on the pavement of Venice Airport Festival Grounds. 

The “Spirited” cultural art experience will also feature an interactive zone where anyone can get creative with chalk. Art enthusiasts will especially love a behind-the-scenes view of the artist’s process before the final day. 

You can spend the day viewing breathtaking art, shopping and eating from the arts and craft vendors, and getting in touch with your artistic side at the Chalk Festival. 

The festival does not last long. It is a short four-day event that runs from October 28-31. 

Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches

Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches brings German culture to Florida. You can get a taste of bratwurst and schnitzel while you sip on imported beers at this festival. 

You don’t have to leave the kids with a sitter. The festival includes family-friendly activities such as carnival games, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and folk dancing. 

Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival

The Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival, located in Regatta Park, features everything you might want during your fall adventures.

You can decorate your pumpkin after picking the perfect one from thousands of choices. Children can get lost in a kid-friendly corn stalk maze or hop on a carnival ride. There will also be live shows and pumpkin beers for the adults. 

Icon Park once again is the place to go for some October fun. The massive park is celebrating Oktoberfest at The Wheelhouse. The Sausage Shack will be serving Oktoberfest meals and drinks. You can enjoy Oktoberfest beer brat topped with kraut and mustard or a Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese.

The Wheelhouse Bar will also be celebrating Oktoberfest, serving specialty Oktoberfest beer.

florida places to visit in october

Florida has plenty of festivals and theme parks to fill your day in October. Still, every day does not need to be an adventure. If you are looking for something casual and unrelated to the spooky season, check out these year-round activities Florida has to offer.

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival

Support local artists of Winter Park at the Autumn Art Festival . Artists present their artwork at the community-tailored sidewalk show. You can find unique pieces of ceramics, jewelry, and art to purchase as a souvenir.

You can also experience live entertainment while your children dive into art activities. The price of admission is free.

Hike the Florida National Scenic Trail

The weather in October is perfect for a hike. Explore the wildlife and enjoy the calming nature as you walk along the 300 miles of planned trails of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Nature lovers can find peace among the trail, and experience swamps, lakes, rivers, and pine forests.

With fewer pesky bugs and a cooler climate, October is considered the perfect month to enjoy a hike.

Visit a Water Park

Although October weather is known to be cooler, some days can still get hot. Keep your cool at any of Orlando’s most popular water parks.

Universal’s Volcano Bay, Aquatica Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park are among the top parks that will keep you cool and entertained with their heated water slides, lagoons, and lazy river pools. 

Universal CityWalk  

If daring rides and haunted houses are not your thing, you can skip the theme park and take a walk through CityWalk to find your kind of fun. The entertainment complex is a trendy hotspot for nightlife. It is filled with trendy restaurants, clubs, and shops, and hosts special events. 

Orlando Science Center

Visit the Orlando Science Center for some educational fun. The science center encourages exploration, curiosity, and fun learning, and features exhibits, a giant screen, and 3D films. 

The Orlando Science Center makes science and learning exciting.

Go Shopping

Head to the Mall of Millennia to snag some souvenirs and a new wardrobe. You can spend an entire day exploring the massive and beautiful mall featuring over 150 retailers. 

You can also visit the Orlando International Premium Outlets to bring home discounted goodies. The outdoor shopping facility has over 180 outlet designer and name-brand stores that offer amazing deals on designer products.

Visit a Beach

You can’t visit Florida without stopping by a beach. Although the temperatures are dropping, you can catch a perfect beach day at a beach on the Florida Suncoast. Beaches on the Suncoast such as Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg Beach are the perfect spot to take in the last bit of summer-weather beach fun.

florida places to visit in october

October is the perfect month for a leisure getaway to Florida. The crowds are smaller, it is less expensive, and the weather is more enjoyable. 

Florida offers festive events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From theme parks to haunted houses, harvest festivals and art shows, and nature and beaches, there is no reason to hesitate to go to Florida in October.  

More about our TFVG Author

florida places to visit in october

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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Situated along scenic Highway 30A on Florida’s Northwest Coast, Seaside is a mere 35-minute drive east of Destin and marked by pastel-colored cottages, clear, emerald-green water, and white-sand beaches.

This picture-perfect, walkable beach town is famous both as the birthplace of the New Urbanism design movement and as the filming location of the 1998 movie “The Truman Show” starring Jim Carrey. For visitors, Seaside offers family-friendly shopping and a wide variety of places to eat , including the gourmet food trucks of Airstream Row , a collection of retrofitted vintage Airstream trailers serving everything from hot sandwiches to fresh juices and baked goods beside a tree-canopied walkway.

Bike through town and explore the 18-mile Timpoochee Trail , rent a cabana , relax on the glistening sand, and see why this part of Florida is known as the Emerald Coast. Grayton Beach State Park , which is just about a mile from Seaside, is a must-see, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing.

Learn more with this First Timer’s Guide to Seaside and plan your trip at Visit South Walton .

Visit the tranquil beach and swim in the calm water.

  • Seaside public beach access
  • Grayton Beach State Park

Spend time on Seaside’s family-friendly beach and grab a bite at Airstream Row .

  • Family-friendly activities

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

See a theater show and visit the galleries.

  • The Repertory Theatre
  • Seaside Amphitheater
  • Red Bird Gallery

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Explore Seaside on foot or by bike, visit the beach, and spend time at Grayton Beach State Park.

  • Timpoochee Trail
  • Bike rentals

ACCESSIBILITY

Accessible area attractions include Grayton Beach State Park.

  • Beach wheelchairs

Enjoy fresh seafood, sample food-truck fare, and indulge in delectable desserts.

  • Culinary experiences

Browse the shops for coastal apparel, gifts, art, books, and music.

  • Places to shop

Relax with a massage or spa treatment.

  • The Spa in Seaside
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PLACES TO STAY

Stay at a boutique hotel or waterfront vacation rental.

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Our 13 Most Favorite Florida Events in October 2023 (That We Think You’ll Love!)

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The arrival of fall is certainly worth celebrating, and there are some great Florida events in October that bring the hype to our favorite season . With live music, mouthwatering seafood, and just a sprinkle of spookiness, we’ll cover all of the must-visit fall festivals!

While we’ve got a few spooky-season celebrations in here, most of these festivals aren’t Halloween-related. If you’re looking for certified spooky events, like pumpkin patches and theme park Halloween parties, you’ll find we have separate articles for each big event. (Check out our Halloween articles here !)

For festivals that are a little more off the beaten path, these 13 Florida events in October are must-experience extravaganzas sure to bring an extra pinch of fun to your fall season!

Florida Events in October

Food, history, crafts – these festivals have it all! Hopping into the festivities is a great way to experience authentic Florida, and choosing to do so during October is a wise move, as temperatures during these outdoor events will be far more bearable than those of the past few months.

Let’s get into our first festival, shall we? I hope you’ve brought your appetite!

1. Destin Seafood Festival

October 6-8, 2023

Enjoy the best fresh-caught delicacies that Destin has to offer at the Destin Seafood Festival !

Located on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk , this enormously fun event kicks off the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo. Admission to this event is free, and you’ll find up to 100 (or more!) food and craft vendors to splurge on. From crab cakes to fried alligator, anything edible that lives in the water might just be on the menu!

This year, there will also be a festival-within-a-festival; the “Call To Chef” event is a 2-day, ticketed event that allows visitors to sample chefs’ and restaurants’ specially prepared seafood at their leisure. Additionally, the Destin Seafood Festival also hosts free live music and entertainment!

Backroads of Florida: Along the Byways to Breathtaking Landscapes & Quirky Small Towns (Back Roads)

2. Tallahassee Balloon Festival

October 13-15, 2023

One of the most high-flying Florida events in October, the Tallahassee Balloon Festival will let you take to the sky in a hot air balloon!

Located at the North Florida Fairgrounds, you can indulge in the ultimate Hallmark movie moment by taking a tethered balloon ride with that special someone! (It’s also super fun for friend groups and family!) There will be plenty of food vendors so that you won’t be flying on an empty stomach, as well as live music, crafts, and a Kids Zone – complete with bounce houses! – for all of the little ones in attendance. We recommend staying until the evening; there’s a grand finale just after 8:00 pm, where brightly lit balloons and lasers dance to music in the night sky!

florida places to visit in october

3. Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival and Asian Cultural Expo

October 14, 2023

Want to become an international explorer for the day? Travel to Asia when you visit the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival and Asian Cultural Expo !

One of the must-see multicultural Florida events in October, the Asian Cultural Expo is free to attend and expresses Asian culture through mesmerizing exhibitions of song, dance, martial arts, and crafts! One such exhibition is the dragon boat races; watch as sleek, vibrantly-painted dragon boats skim through the water thanks to the unified effort of twenty paddlers per vessel! This 2,000-year-old tradition is a sight to behold.

florida places to visit in october

4. McIntoch 1890s Festival

This year marks the 50th McIntoch 1890s Festival in McIntoch, Florida!

Travel back to McIntoch’s Victorian-era heyday as you browse the many booths, munch on delicious food, and take in the live entertainment! Nestled in the charming streets of McIntosh and lined by historic houses, this free festival is one of the most picturesque Florida events in October.

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Looking for the ultimate guide to the best Florida roadside attractions for kids? Check out our top 25 picks! From animal encounters to historical sites, these family-friendly destinations are a must-visit for your next Florida vacation.

5. Country Thunder 2023 (Kissimmee)

October 20-22, 2023

If your radio is dialed into your local country channel at all times, then Country Thunder 2023 is the Florida music festival for you!

Jam away in Kissimmee this October with Cody Johnson, Hardy, Keith Urban, and over a dozen more fantastic country artists! With opportunities for camping and even glamping, this musical palooza can also double as the most rockin’ pajama party of your life!

6. Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail (Plant City)

September 29 – November 4, 2023

Prepare yourself for one of the creepiest Florida events in October – Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail should only be braved by professional ghostbusters!

florida places to visit in october

Open Friday-Sunday for the month of October, you’ll have the chance to go on a haunted hayride, scream your way through two escape games, and face the peril of three haunted trails. Oh, and there’s laser tag! Note: tickets must be purchased in advance to take part in Sir Henry’s sinister fun.

7. South Beach Seafood Festival (Miami Beach)

October 18-21, 2023

Need another seafood fix after Destin ? Yeah, we do, too! Thankfully, South Beach Seafood Festival in Miami Beach is coming right up.

Unlike your typical seafood festival with various vendors, this one serves as a “best in show” for local seafood. You’ll get to enjoy culinary masterpieces from Miami’s finest restaurants and chefs. A four-day festival with 5-course dinners and chef showdowns, you can choose which events you’d like to participate in (which will reflect accordingly in your ticket price). The main event is Saturday afternoon, on the beach, with live music and a plethora of pop-up seafood cafes!

8. Hulaween (Live Oak)

October 26-29, 2023

Get ready for one of the most unique musical festivals in Florida: Hulaween !

florida places to visit in october

Hulaween is an annual music and camping festival that takes place right around the culmination of the spooky season. Located at Spirit Lake, you can spend several days reveling to the beats of Hulaween’s 2023 line-up that includes The String Cheese Incident, Goose, Pretty Lights, and so many more artists!

9. Cedar Key Seafood Festival

October 21-22, 2023

Another seafood festival?! Oh, yeah!

Head on down to the Cedar Key Seafood Festival for a delicious weekend of scrumptious seafood in Cedar Key City Park. While smaller in scale, perhaps, than the festival in Miami, we love that admission to this tasty event is FREE!

10. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

October 25-29, 2023

One of the most significant Florida events in October, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (or “FLIBS” for short), has historically drawn in 100,000 visitors and over 1,000 boats during the course of its five-day schedule.

What makes it so popular? Well, for fans of boating and watersports, it’s the Holy Grail of all things marine-related. FLIBS is the prime location for the debut of the latest and greatest boats, yachts, fishing equipment, and more! There are also educational seminars, an Aquazone where you can witness water stunts, delicious food, and even activities for the kiddos.

11. Spooky Empire (Orlando)

October 27-29, 2023

Looking for some more Halloween fun? Spooky Empire is Orlando’s premier horror convention!

One of the annual events in Florida, this get-together is for fans of all the things that go bump in the night. You’ll find a host of vendors selling spooky merch, over 50 tattoo artists, music, and celebrity guests (with meet-and-greet opportunities). There’s even a costume contest! More details will be available as the event draws near, so be sure to check out the Spooky Empire website for updates!

12. Mount Dora Craft Fair

October 28-29, 2023

An all-time favorite Florida craft festival, the Mount Dora Craft Fair brings 400 amazing exhibitors to the downtown area so you can get the best crafts from around the country! You’ll also be able to splurge on yummy festival foods, beer, and wine. Live music and special guests will help round out the fun of this artistic event.

florida places to visit in october

13. Ocala Arts Festival

The Ocala Arts Festival will be finishing off our schedule of Florida events and festivals in October with a splash of color!

There’s a lot to love about this celebration. From the food trucks to the local performers, it’s a feast for the senses! Of course, the highlight will be the 155 artists who come to exhibit their work for your enjoyment. There will also be activities for kiddos, like face painting, too!

Are you excited about these Florida events in October? We certainly are! Going to a Florida festival is a great way to enjoy a memorable (and often budget-friendly ) experience in the Sunshine State.

Which one(s) are you planning to attend? Let us know in the comments below!

More Posts About Offbeat Florida

20 genius florida travel ideas on a budget: unveiling the magic of the sunshine state on a shoestring, discover the majestic beauty of perdido key state park: a hidden gem for nature lovers, camping on the beach in florida – 10 extraordinary spots for your next getaway .

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The MouseEars TV Creative Editor is passionate about making the world a happier place through the power of writing. She is the author of a historical fantasy novel, WildWood Revisited, and lives by Walt Disney's motto: "When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way." She firmly believes that Mickey-shaped pancakes magically taste better than regular pancakes.

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Orlando   Travel Guide

florida places to visit in october

16 Fun Things to Do in Orlando, Florida in 2024

Orlando is the sum of its parts, or rather, parks. The Central Florida city isn't called the "theme park capital of the world" for no reason – it's a top U.S. destination for hours of fun, with more than enough attractions and activities for

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florida places to visit in october

Walt Disney World Resort Walt Disney World Resort

U.S. News Insider Tip : When park hopping, park at Hollywood Studios to limit driving from park to park. From there, you can get to Animal Kingdom by bus, EPCOT's World Showcase via the Friendship Boat or Skyliner and Magic Kingdom from the EPCOT monorail. – Johnaé De Felicis

Excessive, exhausting and expensive, Walt Disney World Resort is above all else enchanting. Composed of four theme parks, two water parks, more than two dozen hotels and the Disney Springs complex, this sprawling property features iconic sights and rides like Cinderella Castle, "it's a small world," Spaceship Earth, Toy Story Land and the Tree of Life. Even Anaheim's Disneyland can't compete, according to some.

florida places to visit in october

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando Resort

U.S. News Insider Tip : Leverage single-rider lines to shorten ride wait times. Multiple rides have this option available on most days, including sought-after attractions like the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Revenge of the Mummy. – Johnaé De Felicis

Whether you're traveling with little ones, teenagers, friends or your significant other, odds are you'll find something to enjoy at Universal Studios Florida. This sprawling entertainment area features two theme parks, as well as the shopping and entertainment area, Universal CityWalk.

florida places to visit in october

I-Drive I-Drive free

The International Drive area is one of Orlando's most diverse regions to visit. Situated less than 10 miles southwest of downtown Orlando, International Drive features a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment venues, including two outlet malls, Ripley's Believe It or Not! and Pirate's Cove Adventure miniature golf course. Eateries here offer all sorts of cuisines or travelers can enjoy a meal while watching a themed show. For night owls, I-Drive boasts a Cuban-inspired Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, a Howl at the Moon dueling pianos venue, a Señor Frog's restaurant and bar, the world's largest permanent ice bar and more.

Though several former visitors caution that I-Drive tends to get clogged with cars, many said everything one could need is located along this road. Plus, prices here aren't quite as high as those found in the adjacent theme parks.

florida places to visit in october

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florida places to visit in october

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is an excellent alternative to the city's crowded theme parks. Though it's about 45 miles east of downtown Orlando in Merritt Island, Florida, the space center is worth a visit, especially for those interested in NASA history. Items and exhibits found on-site include the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, NASA's former launch countdown clock, a garden with various rockets, astronaut training simulators and the space shuttle Atlantis. You can also take a tour of the property's facilities, watch space-themed IMAX movies or even have your photo taken with a real astronaut.

Space enthusiasts and families alike will enjoy exploring the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Most former visitors said the site offers tons to see and do, especially if you're looking to kill some time on a rainy day and many recommend spending the whole day there.

florida places to visit in october

Fun Spot America Fun Spot America

Although this amusement park is not as well-known as those found at SeaWorld Orlando , Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort , Fun Spot offers a plethora of rides, including carousels, go-karts, tea cups and Ferris wheels. For thrill-seekers, Fun Spot America features an inverted roller coaster and a wooden roller coaster, the latter being the only one available in the city.

Recent parkgoers say the lines are short, service is excellent and that Fun Spot America is a budget-conscious option for the area. Single-day passes cost $59.95 when purchased online and give visitors access to most rides and the Gatorland-affiliated Gator Spot.

florida places to visit in october

The Mall at Millenia The Mall at Millenia free

Popular brands like Apple and H&M rub elbows with high-end stores like Prada and Versace at the Mall at Millenia. Providing a nice change of pace from the overpriced souvenirs you'd purchase inside one of Orlando's parks, this mall houses approximately 150 stores to browse. It also offers a great way to pass the time on a rainy day.

Several prior shoppers appreciated the Mall at Millenia's assortment of stores, which appeal to an array of budgets. Another plus: the variety of dining options. Everything from grab-and-go eateries in the food court to chain restaurants like P.F. Chang's and The Cheesecake Factory can be found here. There's even a Capital Grille to satisfy shoppers looking to treat themselves to a formal meal.

florida places to visit in october

Harry P. Leu Gardens Harry P. Leu Gardens

Swing by Harry P. Leu Gardens and get a sense of the real Orlando (it's not all thrill rides and character meet-and-greets). This botanical oasis – which sits 4 miles northeast of the city center – offers 50 acres of plants like camellias, roses and azaleas. Plus, there are horticulture classes, permanent and rotating art exhibits and a restored 19th-century home.

Recent visitors said this is a nice change of pace from park-palooza, even when it's not peak bloom season. According to many, the Butterfly Garden is a must-see, especially if you have kids with you. Many visitors remarked on the garden's permanent and visiting exhibits, which added another enjoyable element to the peaceful property.

florida places to visit in october

Orlando Science Center Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a place to experiment and learn about all things science. A brief distance from the Harry P. Leu Gardens (about a mile), it's a must-see if you're a science and technology buff.

On-site exhibits include Fusion: A STEAM Gallery, a dinosaur exhibit that uncovers the history of the prehistoric world and Our Planet, Our Solar System. There's also a new nature and conservation exhibit opening in spring 2024, called LIFE. You can even watch educational films and programs at the Digital Adventure Theater or the large, domed screen at Dr. Phillips CineDome.

florida places to visit in october

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florida places to visit in october

Discovery Cove Discovery Cove

There are animal encounters and then there's Discovery Cove – a companion site to SeaWorld Orlando where you can get up-close with dolphins, stingrays, marmosets and otters. And since it's a reservation-only park (the park only admits up to 1,300 guests per day), you'll get to interact with the animals and trainers more intimately. Try snorkeling with tropical fish and rays in the park's coral reef or floating throughout the park's lush landscape on the Wind-Away River. If you need a break from the water, dry off on one of the beaches or feed some of the birds in Discovery Cove's Explorer's Aviary. All of these activities are included with your admission as is the use of snorkeling gear, wet suits and lockers. Unlimited food and drinks (including alcoholic libations) are included as well. Keep in mind that while meeting and swimming with dolphins is a main draw here, the experience isn't included in the base ticket.

According to recent visitors, it's this plethora of diverse attractions that make Discovery Cove such a memorable Orlando experience and many also comment on how relaxing the park is to visit. However, a few note issues with customer service and express concerns about animal care.

florida places to visit in october

Orlando International Premium Outlets Orlando International Premium Outlets free

If you enjoy shopping, then no visit to Orlando would be complete without perusing the city's outlet malls. One of the best is Orlando International Premium Outlets. This outlet mall – which is the largest in Florida – houses everything from standard stores (think: Bath & Body Works, Claire's and J. Crew Factory) to high-end retailers like Armani and Coach. And when you need to quench your thirst or satisfy your hunger, a coffeehouse and multiple cafes and snack shops are available.

Shopaholics rave about the retail options (and discounts) offered at Orlando International Premium Outlets. But remember, this shopping mecca is an open-air facility, so it's best avoided on rainy days. Also, parking is notoriously limited here, so consider taking a taxi or riding the bus or I-RIDE Trolley's Red Line to the property.

florida places to visit in october

ICON Park ICON Park

It might not be Disney World , Universal Studios or SeaWorld , but ICON Park just adds to the list of places to eat, drink and be merry in Orlando. It's a popular go-to for family outings and date nights, offering indoor and outdoor fun for all ages, with more than 50 attractions, shops and restaurants with varying cuisines.

The main attraction is the Wheel at ICON Park—a 400-foot Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Orlando. Also on-site is a Madame Tussauds wax museum and a Museum of Illusions outpost. The Sea Life Orlando Aquarium features sea creatures from around the world. And if you're looking for a thrill, take your pick from the 7D Motion Theater, the 8,000-square-foot Max Action Arena or the Great Florida Road Trip Camera Game—a gaming and educational experience on the Wheel that walks you through the history of mid-century Florida. Gamers can also find plenty of fun at the on-site In the Game arcade.

florida places to visit in october

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

If you're in the mood to dwell in nature and explore some of the world's most fascinating creatures, consider spending a day at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The 116-acre zoo houses more than 350 animals and an array of family-friendly attractions. Adventurers can see more than 100 of the planet's species, from grazing giraffes to slithering snakes. Head to Seminole Aerial Adventures for exhilarating thrills, complete with rope bridges, zip lines, swings and more.

Keep your kiddos entertained with a miniature train ride and an animal encounter at the Barnyard Buddies Children's Zoo, where they can meet a llama, pygmy goats and other small animals. To beat the heat, cool off at the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. Themed botanical gardens are scattered across the property; you may spot a few garden dwellers like hummingbirds and butterflies (especially at the enchanting Butterfly Garden). When you get hungry, stop by Graze Kitchen for burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. Or, stop by Swirl for ice cream, churros or popcorn.

florida places to visit in october

Orlando Golf Courses Orlando Golf Courses

If you're not coming to Orlando to explore its theme parks, chances are you've come to visit its links. More than 170 golf courses – many of which have ties to area resorts – can be found throughout Orlando and its suburbs. Walt Disney World Resort offers four courses, while guests who stay at accommodations located on Universal Orlando Resort  grounds receive golf privileges at select fairways.

According to prior visitors, some of Orlando's best greens include the Evermore Orlando Resort (formerly the Villas of Grand Cypress Orlando), the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Orlando—Grande Lakes and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando , thanks in part to each property's beautiful surroundings and friendly staff. Another favorite: Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge's Champion, Challenger and Charger links. A few previous visitors of Disney's Magnolia Golf Course expressed that the courses are decently challenging and appreciated the friendly staff.

florida places to visit in october

Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Manatee Adventure

(156 reviews)

from $ 80.00

Manatee Swim and Wildlife Park with Upgrade Options from Orlando

Manatee Swim and Wildlife Park with Upgrade Options from Orlando

(107 reviews)

from $ 134.10

Riverboat Sunset Cruise in St Cloud

Riverboat Sunset Cruise in St Cloud

(217 reviews)

from $ 38.00

florida places to visit in october

Lake Eola Park Lake Eola Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you're planning a swan boat outing, you can save up to 40% on boat rental costs by purchasing it through Groupon. On-site, tickets cost $15 per 30-minute rental. – Johnaé De Felicis

Head to Lake Eola Park for a scenic stroll in the heart of downtown Orlando, complete with stunning views of the water, pretty foliage and the Orlando skyline. Its 0.9-mile walking path circles the park's pristine, blue lake, making it the perfect destination for a walk or run (if you haven't exhausted yourself at the theme parks). If your kids need to blow off some steam, take them to the playground.

florida places to visit in october

SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Orlando

While Mickey's house and Harry's wizarding world are certainly magical, many vacationers find Shamu's lair equally enchanting. At SeaWorld Orlando, take your pick of rides (including Orlando's tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster, Mako) and an array of shows and exhibits. Others include the Dolphin Adventures show and Sea Lion and Otter Spotlight presentation.

Travelers love SeaWorld's animal experiences, heart-pounding rides and relaxed atmosphere, but some caution that food and merchandise are pricey and lines can be long thanks to massive crowds. Meanwhile, others warned that the park is better suited to older kids as most of the rides do not allow young children. A few travelers also noted issues with customer service.

florida places to visit in october

Crayola Experience Crayola Experience

Have a colorful day at the Crayola Experience, located at the Florida Mall in Orlando. This 70,000-square-foot fun house is reportedly larger than an NFL football field. It's also home to the world's largest Crayola crayon (Bluetiful), weighing 1,352 pounds and measuring 15.6 feet.

Visitors who don't mind getting their hands dirty can create fun and simple craft projects at the Activity Studio. Wrap It Up! provides a space to name, personalize and wrap your own crayon. For little ones, the Crayola Experience features multiple play areas—from Toddler Town to the Color Playground. They can also test their footwork with the interactive Crayola game, Stomp! Skip! Play! There's a packed schedule of ongoing and seasonal live events here as well, like Sensory Sunday and Colorful Christmas. The Crayon Factory Show is particularly neat, showing guests how crayons are made.

florida places to visit in october

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  • Amica Homeowners Insurance
  • USAA Homeowners Insurance
  • State Farm Homeowners Insurance
  • GEICO Homeowners Insurance
  • Allstate Homeowners Insurance
  • Why You Should Trust Us

Best Homeowners Insurance of 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

A good home insurance company can reduce a family disaster to a small bump in the road. It could be as simple as a curling iron that was not unplugged or as big as a hurricane. No matter the cause, the destruction of your home and belongings doesn't have to be so stressful.

Best Homeowners Insurance Companies

  • Best overall: Amica Homeowners Insurance
  • Best for military: USAA Homeowners Insurance
  • Best for customer satisfaction: State Farm Homeowners Insurance
  • Best for cheap home insurance: GEICO Homeowners Insurance
  • Best for investors: Allstate Homeowners Insurance

Shop the Top Homeowners Insurance

Amica Amica Homeowners Insurance

Highly rated by JD Power and available in 48 states and Washington, DC.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Highly ranked in JD Power's customer satisfaction study
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wide array of discounts
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive annual premiums on homeowners insurance
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not available in Alaska and Hawaii
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May not offer the specialty coverage consumers need

Amica homeowners insurance ranks high with JD Power, operating in 48 states and Washington, DC. Its wide range of home insurance coverage, online policy management, and independent agents makes Amica an attractive option for many consumers.

  • Ranked No. 1 in J.D. Power's homeowners insurance customer satisfaction survey.
  • Loyalty discount, automatic detection devices discount, alarm system discount, claim free discount.
  • Offers home insurance dividends on your policy.

USAA USAA Homeowners Insurance

Straightforward claims process, customizable coverage options, and top-notch customer service.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High customer satisfaction
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive rates for eligible customers
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Homeowners insurance can be combined with other USAA financial products
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available to military, veterans, and their families

USAA homeowners insurance is available to active duty military members, veterans, and their families. It offers competitive rates and coverage.

  • USAA's homeowner's insurance is for military members, veterans, and their families.
  • Discounts for Connected Home, ADT security systems, and being claim-free for 5 years
  • Covers personal belongings with no depreciation
  • USAA members were surveyed, and if had included on J.D Power's homeowners customer satisfaction survey, it would have been No. 1.

State Farm State Farm Homeowners Insurance

State Farm offers six discounts to help you save on your homeowners insurance policy.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Established insurance company
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Nationwide presence
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Highly rated customer satisfaction
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Discounts for bundling insurance products
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. High number of complaints about the claims process on ConsumerAffairs
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Policies can only be purchased through captive agents

State Farm Insurance is sold exclusively by captive agents, limiting options to compare rates. However, State Farm agents are extensively trained to quote State Farm policies with all applicable discounts, especially if you choose to bundle your insurance coverage. State Farm offers coverage for most homes.

  • Homeowners insurance include Ting fire safety technology, cyber event identity restoration and fraud loss (CEIDR), and pet insurance
  • Ranks highly for customer satisfaction

GEICO GEICO Homeowners Insurance

Offers multi-policy discounts.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Established homeowners insurance company with plenty of insurance bundling options
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. National presence covering all 50 states
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easy online quoting
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Customer satisfaction varies across products
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. GEICO offers phone support, but not personalized insurance agent support

GEICO homeowners insurance is one of many products the online giant offers. But, unlike its auto insurance, it encourages customers to work with its call center agents to find the right fit, buy all necessary coverage, etc.

  • Discounts for home safety, and bundling
  • Offers flood insurance (purchased separately)
  • Homeowners, condo, and mobile home insurance

Allstate Allstate Homeowners Insurance

Offers many coverage riders to enhance your homeowners coverage and many discounts.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Established company with national presence and quotes available online
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Quoting available with knowledgeable agents who can also quote other insurance products
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easy bundling options for qualified buyers
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Rates are slightly higher than what other companies offer
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Policies are only available through captive agents
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims process may be slow and conservative leading to denials

Allstate offers many of the most important personal insurance products, including homeowners insurance. It leads the market in discounts, but its base rates may not be as competitive as State Farm and other big competitors.

  • Offers HostAdvantage which is protection for your belongings while renting out your home.
  • Offers flood insurance.
  • Offers coverage during identity theft.
  • You can get discounts for installing protective devices, and being claim free.

Best Home Insurance Company Reviews

Whatever the situation, quality home insurance coverage could be the difference between full recovery and financial ruin after a home-based incident. A strong home insurance company will assess the damage and pay your claim quickly. Policies are clear, and many insurance companies will deploy agents to hold your hand and help you every step of the way.

Amica Mutual : Best Overall

Amica homeowners insurance tops the charts with industry resources like J.D. Power. In business since 1907, Amica Mutual offers standard and platinum policy options. Some policies offer dividend payments of up to 20% of annual premiums for qualified individuals in participating states. The company also has some of the most affordable homeowners insurance rates. While satisfaction and performance are high, it does not offer coverage in Alaska or Hawai'i. Amica was ranked first in the 2021 and 2022 J.D. Power home insurance studies.

Amica Homeowners Insurance Review

USAA :  Best for military

USAA homeowners insurance plans are exclusively available to military members and their immediate family members. But like its other products, USAA maintains a tight grip on the homeowners insurance market for that select population. Its plans offer both the cheapest home insurance and the best coverage available to US military members. When combined with car insurance, bank accounts, and other products, insured parties may qualify for even lower prices.

USAA Homeowners Insurance Review

State Farm : Best for customer satisfaction

State Farm homeowners insurance remains one of the most recognizable names in insurance, particularly in homeowners and affordable car insurance . The company works exclusively with captive agents (i.e., agents can only quote and sell State Farm or State Farm partner products). So if you don't like your quote, want to compare home insurance quotes, or don't qualify for coverage, you'll have to talk to at least one more insurance agent. But its agents can get you the most competitive quotes with all applicable discounts for State Farm products.

State Farm agents can quote and bind policies for most single-family residences, condos, etc. However, you may run into trouble for multi-units with more than four legal units or in high-risk (but insurable) areas such as higher lava zones or areas affected by wildfires.

State Farm Homeowners Insurance Review

GEICO : Best for value

GEICO home insurance is often bundled with GEICO auto insurance. For homeowners working with a mortgage lender, GEICO has a separate department to assist in binding and finalizing the details of your home insurance. Particularly for small homes and condo insurance, GEICO offers cutthroat pricing.

Compared to many other discount home insurance companies, GEICO also offers friendly service, easy underwriting approval, and quick claims processing. In the event of a claim, the payout may not be what you'd expect from companies like State Farm, Allstate, or Amica Mutual. Depending on where you live, you may also have to call its toll-free line to get home insurance quotes.

GEICO Home Insurance Review

Allstate : Best for investors

Allstate homeowners insurance is known for the character "Mayhem." Mayhem, played by actor Dean Winters, plays out real claims scenarios Allstate has paid in entertaining commercials. Allstate offers a range of home insurance products including plans for investors to cover the structure and liability associated with having tenants. Renters should supplement with renters coverage , but Allstate plans are highly customizable. Like State Farm, Allstate is only quoted through the company's captive agents, and they do not insure structures with more than four units.

Allstate Homeowners Insurance Review

What Home Insurance Won't Cover

While uncommon, some homes are uninsurable. This would include homes in certain fire zones and lava zones. Beachfront properties (depending on the distance to the ocean) can be insured, but only with higher premiums for lower coverage limits. Not all insurers offer coverage for high-risk areas.

The exact rules vary between policies. This is why it's critical to work with an insurance agent you trust and review your policy documents. An all perils home insurance policy will cover damage caused by anything that's not specifically excluded in the policy documents. With decades of claims and underwriting experience, insurers list exclusions from lava and hurricanes to riots, war, nuclear hazards, and government action. So read carefully before assuming specific incidents will be covered under your home insurance.

If you choose a named-perils policy, you may get the cheapest home insurance rates available to you. As you might expect, insurers only cover damage associated with perils listed in the policy documents. So the risk of unpaid claims is higher. In short, if your named perils policy covers damage from fires, lightning, and explosions, you would not be covered if a car crashed into your home unless it caused an explosion.

Similarly, you decide what property coverage you want up front. Dwelling coverage (the cost to repair or replace your home if destroyed) is a constant, particularly if you have a mortgage. Many other coverages are optional. Homeowners who want the cheapest home insurance rates when shopping for homeowners insurance might skip personal property coverage. Investors renting properties out might also skip personal property coverage while increasing liability coverage. If a covered peril damages your home, though, you would then be responsible to replace furniture, clothing, electronics, and any other personal property.

Home Insurance Companies Won't Cover Neglect or Intentional Damage

The exact breakdown of coverage varies between home insurance companies. No matter where you buy, there are two exclusions with no exceptions.

  • Neglect : Neglect is one of the most common reasons for denials of claims. If you have a leaky toilet that goes unchecked, it could slowly leak for months or years. This would lead to floor rot, mold , and other long-term damage. Insurers expect homeowners to maintain the property and prevent damage where possible. This is why many companies will not cover vacant homes. Vacancies mean no one is on location to catch major incidents or small leaks.
  • Intentional damage : A home insurance company may refuse coverage for certain types of vandalism and destruction. This is specific to homeowners and legal residents. As a general rule, policyholders are not meant to profit from insurance plans. Insurance should restore what was lost to its state prior to the claim. When homeowners or residents intentionally damage or destroy the property, insurers view it as an attempt to profit and an extra hazard. This leads to greater scrutiny and can escalate to claims being denied. Particularly if you have renters or boarders, make sure to discuss coverage with your agent.

How to Find The Most Affordable Home Insurance for You

Mortgage lenders require borrowers to buy a homeowners policy covering the cost to rebuild your home. This estimate is based on the appraisal or your insurance agent's estimated replacement cost matrix. Some homeowners are also required to pay for regional coverage such as flood, hurricane, or earthquake.

Unless you specify otherwise, the lender will then collect a small amount each month to pay your premium for you once a year. Keep in mind, all insurance notices will be sent to you automatically. So if prices go up or you want to switch for any reason, you have control over your homeowners insurance.

The cheapest home insurance is not always the most affordable. Homeowners insurance quotes give buyers a preview of what they may pay each year. But this doesn't account for the cost of claims or how much you could pay out of pocket if your claims are denied or your insurer drags out the process. When shopping for home insurance, we balance cost with performance and coverage.

Homeowners Insurance Companies with the Highest Customer Satisfaction

The Better Business Bureau accepts a company's customer complaints and reviews advertising and transparency about business practices. Once a complaint is submitted, companies can respond and resolve the issues.

The BBB ranking does not guarantee great rates or that you'll love the company. That's why we also looked at average rates, reviews from sites like TrustPilot, and sample plans to compare coverage options. However, a company with a high BBB rating is more likely to stay above board and address consumer issues.

USAA's limited availability makes it impractical for organizations like JD Power or the BBB to rank it alongside companies that sell to a more diverse range of users. However, many of our top home insurance picks maintain the BBB's highest ranking. When combined with strong JD Power, AM Best rankings, reviews from real homeowners, and advice from our expert panel, we feel confident saying our top picks are also trustworthy home insurance companies for the average consumer.

Home Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most people have homeowners insurance. If you have a mortgage, your lender will require home insurance. In most cases, your homeowners insurance invoices will be sent to your lender, and it will add costs to your monthly payments. Among homeowners who own their home outright, most still have insurance to protect against the unexpected.

An umbrella policy offers a boost in coverage for multiple policies with one premium. If you're bundling your homeowners and auto insurance policies with one company, raising your liability limits on each policy could be costly. Whether you're in an auto accident or your dog bites the mailman, the ensuing claim can be costly, especially if you don't have sufficient liability coverage. 

A home insurance policy for a condo could be as little as $200 annually depending on coverage. A homeowners policy for a single-family detached structure on a beachfront could be $5,000 or more annually. With so many factors to consider, a licensed insurance agent is the best resource for customized plans to meet individual needs.

At a minimum, homeowners need replacement coverage for the structure. In short, your insurance company runs a cost assessment to estimate the construction cost for replacing your home if it were completely destroyed. More importantly, check your coverage exclusions, add-ons like water backup coverage, and personal property coverage limits. Even if you have limited personal belongings, furnishing a house could quickly reach $100,000 or more.

Why You Should Trust Us: Our Expert Panel for The Best Homeowners Insurance

An expert panel for the best homeowners insurance companies of 2023 story

We spoke to a variety of experts to inform our picks for this best home insurance guide, and to give readers additional advice for finding the right policy. You can read what they had to say later in this guide, under the Experts' Advice section.

The Experts' Advice on Choosing The Best Home Insurance for You

We worked with a realtor, homeowners insurance agent, and mortgage loan originator to discuss what buyers should consider when buying home insurance. You can find their full commentary below.

What do you believe are the most important things to look for when buying home insurance?

Lina Roby , Former Insurance Editor with Personal Finance Insider

Homeowners should take into account both coverage and price. Critical riders like water backup coverage cost you as little as a few dollars per renewal period while saving you thousands in the event of a claim. When calculating your monthly mortgage costs, the right homeowners insurance ensures your home also fits your budget.

Stephanie Andrews, Realtor with Keller Williams Hawaii Dream Homes

Homeowners should have complete coverage without too many stipulations or exceptions.

Jeremy Yang, Homeowners Insurance Agent with IFG Insurance LLC

Details of the policy are important. Ex:Replacement Cost vs Actual Cash Value coverage/endorsement like water backup coverage.

Chelsie Sorino , Mortgage Loan Originator with CF Home Loans LLC

I believe is most important to look for when buying homeowners insurance is making sure that your coverage is truly comprehensive. A named peril policy provides coverage ONLY for the select types of damages listed in the specific policy. On the other hand, a comprehensive peril policy makes getting insurance to cover any incident much easier.

How should I set my deductible amount?

Lina Roby, Former Insurance Editor with Personal Finance Insider

Consider how much you can afford to spend in the event of a claim? If you cannot afford to spend $1,000 out of pocket to deal with a major flood, for example, a $1,000 deductible may lower your monthly premium, but it's too high.

Your deductible should match your income and available cash on hand. Having a larger deductible will save you money, but if you can't afford to pay a large deductible when you need the insurance, then the extra savings don't matter.

Your deductible should be based on claim history & affordability. If you have no claims history and are not likely to file claim, you can raise your deductible. But understand that the deductible will be the out-of-pocket amount if any claim are filed.

Chelsie Sorino, Mortgage Loan Originator with CF Home Loans LLC

Low deductible plans require higher monthly premiums but lower out of pocket expenses. High deductible plans provide lower monthly premiums but higher expenses in the event of an insurance claim. You should choose a deductible that balances out your monthly and out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim.

What are the most common things buyers miss when buying home insurance?

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of riders. All they see is extra costs. The bulk of your monthly premiums is spent on dwelling coverage, personal property, and other key parts of homeowners coverage. The devil is in the details, especially when it comes to homeowners insurance riders.

Not getting enough coverage for a complete rebuild, not checking for specific coverage like flood or hurricane, and not looking at the conditions of the insurance.

Most buyers will choose the cheapest insurance, which might leads to homeowners being underinsured. Getting insurance with not enough coverage is like driving a car with a drawing of a seatbelt on your shirt.

Equipment breakdown coverage is something that I see buyers missing when buying homeowners insurance. This is an easy & affordable rider. Common examples of covered equipment being air conditioning systems, furnaces, heat pumps, heaters, and kitchen & laundry appliances.

How We Chose the Best Home Insurance Companies

Sites like J.D Power, user review sites, and other sources play a role in our reviews, as do policy documents. While we cannot look at every policyholder's documents, most home insurance companies have specific coverage limits and benefits applicable to all standard policies. To come up with our list of the best home insurance companies, we also considered common exclusions and the impact on the average homeowner compared to average premiums.

We take into account customer experience and the claims experience. While homeowners hope to never experience a partial or full loss of their home, most do. Finally, we factor in financial stability. Regardless of size, insurance companies walk a tight line between premiums coming in and claims payments going out. We look for insurers likely to be around for the foreseeable future. For a full breakdown of our insurance rating guidelines, click here .

florida places to visit in october

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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florida places to visit in october

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florida places to visit in october

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  1. Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

    florida places to visit in october

  2. 10 Best Places to Visit in October (with Map)

    florida places to visit in october

  3. The 9 Best Boardwalks to Visit in Florida

    florida places to visit in october

  4. Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

    florida places to visit in october

  5. Top 10 Best Places in Florida to visit in October

    florida places to visit in october

  6. Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

    florida places to visit in october

COMMENTS

  1. 7 Things to Know Before Visiting Florida in October

    Florida weather in October tends to be less rainy, and cooler. It is no longer 95 degrees Farenhite, mainly because that rain fall does tend to cool the state off. With the changing weather in October, it's important to know that as the rainfall slows down, humidity levels start to decrease too. Thus, the evenings can be a bit chilly and ...

  2. Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

    October is an excellent month to visit any place in Florida because of the decline in tourist crowds, more attractive pricing, and great weather. 1. Orlando. October is a great time to visit Orlando. All the kids have returned to school, so fewer families crowd the amusement parks and the city.

  3. 12 Best Fall Beach Destinations in Florida

    Clearwater Beach. One of the most famous beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach, is lined with powder-white sand and crystal blue waters. The fall season brings some of the best weather in this area, the perfect time to explore the array of family-friendly attractions that make this award-winning beach so popular.

  4. Florida in October: Best Events & Fun Things to Do in 2023

    Tampa Pig Jig (Tampa, FL): For 10+ years, this not-for-profit event has raised money for a debilitating kidney disease in Tampa. Come out for the barbecue, live music, and craft beer, and tickets go to a good cause. Cedar Key Seafood Festival: One of my long-time favorite sleepy fisherman villages is Cedar Key.

  5. Florida in October [Weather, What to Wear, Crowds, Top Tips]

    The Florida Keys is hands down one of the best places to visit in Florida. Just like Miami, hurricanes are still possible and the Keys are the furthest south you can go. In October the average temperature for the Keys is 85°F (29.4°C) and enjoys the most sunshine in the whole state, and some of the best sunset views.

  6. Top 10 Florida Vacations To Visit for Fall 2024

    Mount Dora. A charming lakefront town in Central Florida, Mount Dora is one of Florida's most beloved small-town treasures. Its historic downtown district makes for a lovely exploration of the area, where you'll find antique stores, galleries, and outdoor cafes. While shopping is plentiful in Mount Dora, fall means it is time for the annual ...

  7. Florida in October: Everything You Need to Know

    The area tends to appeal to an older audience whose families and children will visit for the warm Florida weather. October is generally the time of year that the snowbirds will come back to inhabit the Paradise Coast for the next half year. The waters are typically warm in October, averaging 82°F (27.8°C).

  8. Florida in October: [Weather, What to Wear, What to Do]

    Weather in Florida in October. October in Florida is characterized by warm water and warm temperatures, with the average highest temperature between 26°C to 29 °C degrees Celsius or 80°F to 85°F degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that this varies from region to region. With an average of 8 inches, monthly rainfall in October is usually on the ...

  9. October in Florida: Weather and Event Guide

    Atlantic Hurricane Season. What to Pack. October Events in Florida. Travel Tips. With summer humidity breaking and the Atlantic hurricane season starting to wind down, October is one of the best times of year to visit Florida for the weather alone. In October, high temperatures usually hover between 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, varying by region.

  10. 10 Things To Do in Florida This Fall

    Fall in Florida marks the beginning of the prime season to see some of Florida's most treasured gentle giants up close and personal. These 2,000-pound creatures retreat in Florida's 70-degree waters during winter, making it a perfect time to introduce yourself to one of the most lovable endangered species in the Sunshine State.

  11. Best Places to Visit in Florida in 2024

    St. Augustine. #3 in Best Places to Visit in Florida in 2024. History buffs should make a beeline for St. Augustine. Founded by the Spaniards in 1565, this town in northern Florida is the oldest ...

  12. Florida In October 2023: Things To Do, Weather & Temperature

    October in Florida is a beautiful time of year and there are plenty of places to visit that can make for a truly memorable vacation. From the old-world charm of St Augustine to modern Miami beach, each city has something special to offer.

  13. The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better ...

    The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in Florida, a subtropical delight with nice weather year round. But beware of peak tourist season, which begins right after Christmas and lasts ...

  14. 28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You'll Love)

    3. Mammoth Lakes, California. Gorgeous fall foliage at Mammoth Lakes, California. Average temp: high 60, low 30. One of the best places to visit in October in USA is Mammoth Lakes. It's located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall.

  15. 5 Reasons to Plan an October in Destin

    The weather in October is Perfect. October is the perfect time to enjoy all Destin offers without summer's oppressive heat and humidity. The average high temperature in October is a comfortable 82 degrees, with lows dipping down into the 60s at night. And since Destin is located on the Gulf of Mexico, you can enjoy cool breezes coming off the ...

  16. 20 Fun Things to do in Orlando in October

    This event also has a corn maze, corn hole, games, and more. 13. Orlando Corn Maze. October + November. Regardless of when you visit Orlando in the fall, you can head to Corn Maze Orlando, open every day in October and November. This corn maze's current theme is Mission to the Moon, so expect a space-themed activity.

  17. Is October a Good Time to go to Florida?

    The Florida heat is known to be brutal at times. October is the perfect month to visit Florida weather-wise. During this month, the end of hurricane season begins, and daily rain and storms lessen. The weather is far more pleasant as temperatures begin to drop. It changes from humid and hot to crisp and cool.

  18. 10+ Best Places to Visit in Florida

    Pensacola Beach. Best Places to Stay. Pensacola is the westernmost city in the Florida panhandle, which is why it's nicknamed the "western gate to the sunshine state.". It's easy to see why it's a top-rated beach in Florida's Panhandle with its known brilliant white sand and turquoise water. Considered the epicenter of Florida's ...

  19. 13 of the best things to do in Florida

    3. Skim through the waters of the Everglades on an airboat. When many people think of Florida, the Everglades are one of the first things that come to mind. A vast expanse of shimmering wetlands and lush marshes, the Everglades is a source of unique wildlife and natural preservation.

  20. 15 Best Places to Visit in October 2024

    Acadia National Park. #15 in Best Places to Visit in October 2024. The most beautiful time to visit Acadia National Park is October, hands down. By mid-month, this top attraction in Maine is ...

  21. Things to Do & Attractions in Seaside FL

    Bike through town and explore the 18-mile Timpoochee Trail, rent a cabana, relax on the glistening sand, and see why this part of Florida is known as the Emerald Coast. Grayton Beach State Park, which is just about a mile from Seaside, is a must-see, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing.

  22. Our 13 Most Favorite Florida Events In October 2023 (That We Think You

    8. Hulaween (Live Oak) October 26-29, 2023. Get ready for one of the most unique musical festivals in Florida: Hulaween! Music festivals are some of the most fun Florida festivals. (Photo: Unsplash) Hulaween is an annual music and camping festival that takes place right around the culmination of the spooky season.

  23. 16 Fun Things to Do in Orlando, Florida in 2024

    Crayola Experience. Have a colorful day at the Crayola Experience, located at the Florida Mall in Orlando. This 70,000-square-foot fun house is reportedly larger than an NFL football field. It's ...

  24. Best Homeowners Insurance of 2024

    Best overall: Amica Homeowners Insurance. Best for military: USAA Homeowners Insurance. Best for customer satisfaction: State Farm Homeowners Insurance. Best for cheap home insurance: GEICO ...

  25. Microsoft Store & billing help

    Explore Microsoft Store services. From free shipping and returns to our 60-day price protection, we're here to help you do more with best-in-class devices, software, games, and resources. Check out what the Microsoft Store has to offer: Shopping and purchase support | Product setup and training | Small business support.

  26. Sports Betting News, Expert Picks, Reviews, Guides & Promos

    21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in select states. Void where prohibited. Not available in OH and MA. New Customer only. First online real money wager only. $10 first deposit required. Bonus issued as ...

  27. Adobe Creative Cloud for students and teachers

    Try Creative Cloud today. After your free trial, your Adobe Creative Cloud membership is only. US$59.99/mo . See terms. Buy now. Free trial. Students and teachers are eligible for over 60% discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Get access to Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro and more.