1. Salem, Massachusetts

It doesn’t get more “Halloween” than Salem, MA. With witch history tours, haunted houses, and street festivals, October here feels like stepping straight into Hocus Pocus.
Don’t miss: The Salem Witch Museum and the annual Haunted Happenings Festival.

Where to stay: Hotels in Salem → Booking.com

2. Sleepy Hollow, New York

Yes, the Headless Horseman is still riding. This Hudson Valley town goes all out in October with haunted hayrides, lantern tours, and historic cemeteries that look straight out of a gothic novel.
Pro tip: Visit the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze nearby for 7,000+ glowing pumpkins.

Where to stay: Hotels near Sleepy Hollow → Booking.com

3. Savannah, Georgia

Spanish moss, cobblestone streets, and ghost tours galore. Savannah is spooky year-round, but in October the city leans fully into its haunted reputation.

Haunt level: High. Stay at a historic inn if you dare — or book a Ghosts & Gravestones Tour → GetYourGuide.

Where to stay: Hotels in Savannah → Booking.com

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

The Crescent City doesn’t limit costumes to Mardi Gras. New Orleans in October brings haunted tours, elaborate costumes, and Voodoo Fest. Plus, the weather finally cools off enough to stroll the French Quarter comfortably.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is fall color central. Pair the foliage with craft breweries, cozy coffee shops, and a visit to the Biltmore Estate decked out for autumn.

Where to stay: Hotels in Asheville → Booking.com

6. Estes Park, Colorado

Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, this spot delivers snow-dusted peaks and fiery aspens in October. It’s also home to the Stanley Hotel — the inspiration for The Shining.

Where to stay: Hotels near Estes Park → Booking.com

7. Anoka, Minnesota

Known as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka has been celebrating big since 1920. Think parades, house decorating contests, and trick-or-treating events for all ages.

8. Sleepy College Towns (Ann Arbor, MI & Madison, WI)

These towns blend football Saturdays, vibrant fall color, and downtown charm. Add in cider mills, farmer’s markets, and crisp morning walks, and you’ve got the coziest October vibes.

Don’t miss: Ann Arbor Farmers Market and Madison’s Dane County Farmers Market.

9. Vermont’s Small Towns

You could drop a pin anywhere in Vermont and end up with a postcard-perfect October weekend. Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester are top picks for foliage, maple syrup, and covered bridges.

Where to stay: Hotels in Vermont → Booking.com

10. Los Angeles, California

Okay, hear me out: Los Angeles in October means Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, West Hollywood’s epic Halloween parade, and the chance to wear your costume without freezing. Sunshine by day, spooky screams by night.

Plan Your October Getaway

Amazon Fall Travel Picks:

• Plaid travel scarf (doubles as a blanket) → Amazon

• Portable power bank for festival days → Amazon

• Stylish crossbody bag (perfect for city walks & haunted tours) → Amazon

Top Tours & Experiences with GetYourGuide:

• Salem Witch Trials Walking Tour → GetYourGuide

• Sleepy Hollow Ghost Tour → GetYourGuide

• Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Tour → GetYourGuide

Hotels Worth Booking:

• Hotels in Salem, MA → Booking.com

• Hotels in Asheville, NC → Booking.com

• Hotels in Savannah, GA → Booking.com

Bottom line: October is the month to indulge — in fall foliage, pumpkin spice, and a healthy dose of spooky fun. Whether you want cozy small-town charm or heart-racing haunted houses, these U.S. destinations prove there’s no wrong way to spend spooky season.

The post 🍂 10 Best Places in the USA to Spend October appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Itinerary
Day 1: Seattle
– Morning: Pike Place Market
– Afternoon: Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass
– Evening: Dinner in the International District

Day 2: Seattle
– Morning: Museum of Pop Culture
– Afternoon: Seattle Art Museum and Waterfront Park
– Evening: Sunset at Kerry Park

Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
– Full Day: Hiking and exploring the park

Day 4: Olympic National Park
– Full Day: Visit Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Rialto Beach

Day 5: Tacoma
– Morning: Museum of Glass
– Afternoon: Point Defiance Park and Zoo

Day 6: Spokane
– Morning: Riverfront Park
– Afternoon: Manito Park and Duncan Garden
– Evening: Explore downtown Spokane

Day 7: Leavenworth
– Full Day: Explore the Bavarian-themed village and nearby hiking trails

Top Sites to See

Pike Place Market (Seattle)
One of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S., Pike Place Market is a must-visit for its fresh produce, unique crafts, and iconic fish-throwing fishmongers.

Space Needle (Seattle)
An iconic symbol of Seattle, the Space Needle offers stunning views of the city, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. Don’t miss the revolving glass floor at the top.

Mount Rainier National Park
Home to the highest peak in the Cascade Range, this park offers breathtaking vistas, wildflower meadows, and diverse wildlife. Popular activities include hiking, climbing, and snowshoeing.

Olympic National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the park features diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines. Key spots include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Rialto Beach.

Museum of Pop Culture (Seattle)
Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, this museum is dedicated to contemporary popular culture. It features exhibits on music, science fiction, and more.

Museum of Glass (Tacoma)
This museum showcases contemporary glass art and hosts live glassblowing demonstrations. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is a stunning pedestrian bridge connecting the museum to downtown Tacoma.

Riverfront Park(Spokane)
Located along the Spokane River, this park offers a variety of attractions including a carousel, SkyRide, and sculptures. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Leavenworth
This Bavarian-themed village is nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy the charming architecture, local shops, and nearby outdoor activities like hiking and river rafting.

Looking for hiking ideas

Best Time of Year to Visit

– Spring (April to June): Mild weather and blooming wildflowers make this a great time for outdoor activities.
– Summer (July to September): Ideal for hiking, festivals, and enjoying the coastal areas. Expect warm weather and longer days.
– Fall (October to November): Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and fewer crowds. Great for visiting wineries and harvest festivals.
– Winter (December to March): Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and holiday festivities, especially in the mountains and Leavenworth.

Transportation Options

– Car Rental: The best way to explore Washington’s diverse landscapes. Major rental companies are available at airports and in cities.
– Public Transit: Seattle and other major cities have extensive bus and light rail systems.
– Amtrak: Scenic train routes connect major cities and offer a relaxing way to see the state.
– Ferries: Washington State Ferries are a unique way to explore the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands.

Must-See Instagram Spots

– Kerry Park (Seattle): Offers panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, especially at sunset.
– Snoqualmie Falls: A stunning 268-foot waterfall that’s a popular spot for photos.
– Palouse Falls: Located in southeastern Washington, this dramatic waterfall is surrounded by unique canyon scenery.
– Rialto Beach (Olympic National Park): Known for its rugged coastline, sea stacks, and driftwood.
– Deception Pass Bridge: A picturesque bridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands.

Holidays and Events

– Seattle International Film Festival (May-June): One of the largest film festivals in North America.
– Bumbershoot (September): A major arts and music festival held in Seattle.
– Washington State Fair (September): Located in Puyallup, this fair features rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.
– Christmas Lighting Festival (December): Held in Leavenworth, this festival transforms the village into a winter wonderland with lights, music, and festivities.

Souvenirs to Purchase

– Seattle Coffee: Grab a bag of beans from one of Seattle’s many renowned coffee roasters.
– Local Wine: Washington is known for its wine, especially from regions like Walla Walla and Yakima Valley.
– Handmade Crafts: Pike Place Market and local boutiques offer unique, handcrafted items.
– Glass Art: Tacoma’s Museum of Glass has a variety of beautiful glass pieces available for purchase.
– Bavarian Goods: In Leavenworth, find unique Bavarian-themed items and locally made goods.

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors

Seattle: For first-time visitors, staying in downtown Seattle is ideal. You’ll be close to major attractions like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the waterfront. The area is also well-connected with public transit, making it easy to explore the city.

Washington State offers a wealth of experiences, from vibrant city life to serene natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a week-long adventure or a quick getaway, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. Enjoy your trip!

The post Top things to do when visiting Washington State! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Location: Leavenworth, Washington 98826 USA

Best time to visit: Visiting any time of the year is going to be a great time because the city has so much detail in every building that it’s beautiful no matter the weather. Whether you decide to stay in the city and enjoy the shopping and restaurants or you can visit all the nearby hiking trails year-round making this a great destination no matter the season.

Spring, Summer, & Fall – Birding · Camping · Climbing · Fishing and Motorized Boat Rentals · Golfing · Hiking · Horseback Riding · Mountain Biking, Paragliding, Water Sports, and Ziplines!

Fall is great because they have their Oktoberfest activities and Winter is magical because they have their Christmas Market and are usually covered in snow!

More information on the Oktoberfest can be found here: https://www.leavenworthoktoberfest.com/

More information on the Christmas Market can be found here: https://christkindlmarktleavenworth.com/

Like it? Pin it!
Did you find this post helpful? Help us spread the word by sharing this post or pinning the previous image.

The post Cutest little Bavarian town in Washington State! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

This family-friendly trail goes around the Chambers Bay Golf Course and has great views of Puget Sound. This trail is ranked moderate and not easy because it includes steep rolling hills.

Location: Chambers Bay Golf Course, 6320 Grandview Dr. W, University Place, WA 98467, United States

History: This loop combines the Grandview Trail with the Soundview Trail to make 3.25 miles with some serious incline. Walk around the golf course at Chambers Creek Regional Park, and enjoy views of Chambers Bay and the vivid green grasses of the golf course.

Add a little more distance with the half-mile Central Meadow Inner Loop or the .75 mile

outer loop near the temporary off-leash area!

Things to do: This is a very popular area for birding, road biking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and permitted off-leash in some of the areas.

There are also restrooms on site which is always a bonus! They offer tons of parking in their paved parking lot as well!

If you are interested in more information about the golf course, that can be found here at their website!

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Chamber’s Bay, more than just a golf course! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

My family personally did this hike countless times while living in Washington State. It’s a perfect location, with great views, a wide path that is stroller friendly, and PARKING!!

Location: Sequalitchew Creek Trail, DuPont, WA 98327, United States

Explore this 4.8-km out-and-back trail generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 5 min to complete.

History: This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October.

Things to do: Dog-friendly but must be on a leash! Allow for extra time because you will definitely find yourself staring off at the water looking for sea lions!

This wildlife refuge has some incredible grounds you can visit. Tons of animals and vegetation are there for your enjoyment YEAR ROUND!

Not going to lie we would usually pair this with a trip to Original House of Donuts for a delicious snack!

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Family Friendly Hike in Washington State appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Location: 100 Brown Farm Road, Olympia, WA 98516

History: There are several hikes available here at Nisqually and all are rated as “easy”.

Things to do: Hiking, birding, wildlife watching, photography, Ranger-led programs, education programs, boating non-motorized, fishing, and hunting.

Further details on the different things you can do while visiting can be found on their website here.

Some fun reads for the whole family!

They also offer tons of events and ways for you to get involved! All the details can be found here. Including days when admittance is FREE!!

Restrooms are located adjacent to the Norm Dicks Visitor Center and portable toilets are placed at the Twin Barns, at the north end of the Twin Barns Loop.

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Did you know that Mount Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range and in Washington state at 4,392 meters?!

Location: Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington state. Several major cities in Washington- Seattle, Tacoma, and Yakima- and Portland, Oregon, are within 200 miles of the park.

Always check the road status page before planning a trip to the park. Unexpected road closures may occur at any time due to the dynamic nature of Mount Rainier.

Avoid Summer Congestion
On busy summer weekends expect long waits at entrances and full parking lots. Plan ahead and follow these tips to avoid summer traffic.

Traffic & Travel Tips
Park roads are winding with narrow shoulders and the maximum speed limit is 35 mph in most areas. Allow plenty of travel time during your visit.

Traveling in Summer
On a sunny summer weekend, it can be difficult or impossible to find parking at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove of the Patriarchs, and at the trailheads between Longmire and Paradise. To help avoid this congestion, it is recommended to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day, and carpool to the park if possible. Parking is not permitted along the road edges.

Traveling in Winter
Many of the park roads close in winter. The road to Paradise closes nightly during winter months, and road conditions are often snowy and icy. All vehicles are required to carry tire chains. Learn more about Winter Travel, including information on gate closures, and Tire Chain Frequently-Asked-Questions.

Entrance Fees:

Save time at the entrance and pay your entry fee before you come by purchasing a digital pass through Recreation.gov!

2023 Fee-Free Days:

Entrance fees are waived on the following days:

If you are interested in more information about visiting Mount Rainier, check out their website full of travel tips and tricks!

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Visiting Mount Rainier appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.