Whether you’re drawn to the beautiful colors of autumn foliage or the appeal of fewer crowds, November is a great time of year to travel. Gearing up for the holiday season, the eleventh month of the year is a good time to get some quality rest and relaxation before planning Christmas or New Year's Eve festivities. Black Friday means it's also a great time to get some holiday shopping.
01 Los Angeles
If you’re looking to go somewhere warm in November, Los Angeles is a great spot. The mild weather here year-round means that everything is in bloom. Walk around palm tree-lined streets while shopping or scoping out the most up-and-coming restaurant. The Dia de Los Muertos festival in Grand Park at the beginning of November features art workshops, audio storytelling, and many more festivities.
02 New York City
November may be the tail end of spectacular fall leaves, but it's the beginning of spectacular sales deals in New York City, the mecca of shopping any time of the year. If you’re into Black Friday deals, NYC is the place to be. November in New York City also offers an abundance of fun outings, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
03 Big Sur, California
Big Sur is gorgeous any time of year, but November has notably fewer crowds and marks the last month before the rainy season. Having attracted many famous artists over the years, Big Sur sticks true to its creative roots and offers several artist workshops throughout November. There are many trails to hike at varying skill levels, including the Salmon Creek Trail, Tanbark Trail, and Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, among several others.
04 Memphis, Tennessee
Thanks to milder temperatures, November is one of the best times to visit Memphis as opposed to the intense and humid summers. A city rich in music history, a must-do in Memphis anytime of year is to visit Sun Studios, the famous recording studio, and Graceland, the late Elvis Presley's home. Memphis is also home to several haunted house tours and, most importantly, the National Civil Rights Museum.
05 Moab, Utah
Moab is host to some of the most incredible landscapes in the United States, including Arches National Park, the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. November is one of the best times to visit as it’s less crowded and much cooler in temperature, making all the amazing outdoor activities, like hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking, a more gentle experience. Make sure to pack a beanie and gloves and check trail conditions, though. Moab is home to some awesome restaurants and Moab Brewery, the town’s only microbrewery.
06 Boise, Idaho
Home to many LA and Portland ex-pats, Boise is on the up-and-up. Even though snow may be accumulating in the nearby mountains due to its valley location, Boise weather remains very mild In November, with temperatures averaging between 42°F to 57°F. The 25-mile Greenbelt is great for biking and walking; you might even catch a glimpse of a Giraffe peeking out from the outdoor Boise Zoo. Make sure to also check out the unique Anne Frank Memorial and Idaho Botanical Gardens winter lights.
07 Breckenridge, Colorado
The best part about Breckenridge in November is that the city offers up the great ski conditions of winter plus the sunshine of late autumn. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, join Breckenridge in a month-long celebration of Dia De Los Muertos, where several art and crafts festivities are available. Breckenridge's historic Main Street offers amazing cafes, restaurants, shopping, and amazing local deals.
08 New Orleans, Louisiana
November is also foodie month in New Orleans — make sure to get some famous New Orleans Gumbo or a po'boy while you’re meandering the streets. St James Cheese Co offers incredible French cheese and wine pairings, and the Boudin, Bourbon & Beer Festival brings together the best chefs and bartenders for the most amazing cocktails and dishes from across the country.
09 Atlanta, Georgia
With an average temperature of just under 70℉, Atlanta is a beautiful place to visit in November. The city is host to an abundance of activities suitable for the whole family, most notably the annual holiday lights show at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and the annual Thanksgiving Day half marathon mile and dash. Make sure to also check out the High Museum of Art and National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
10 Cannon Beach, Oregon
While there's sure to be rainfall, visiting Cannon Beach in November is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones while soaking up some of the most picturesque views along the coast of the Pacific Northwest. In addition to the city’s infamous Haystack Rock, it's also host to whale watching and crabbing activities. Downtown Cannon Beach in November is a festive month gearing up for the holidays with a gift fair and the annual Stormy Weather Arts Festival. Be sure to check out Bruce’s Candy Kitchen and Lazy Susan Cafe for the best brunch in town.
11 San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, or SATX as the locals call it, is a mecca for foodies and history buffs alike. With five 18th-century Spanish frontier missions to visit, including the Alamo, San Antonio is rich in history. November is host to the Day of the Dead Celebration and exceptional weather to explore the city’s famous River Walk festivities. San Antonio also offers some of the most exceptional BBQ and Mexican food in south-central Texas.
12 Santa Fe, New Mexico
Not only is the temperature moderate, but November also brings the lowest crowds in Santa Fe, meaning the best hotel prices. Explore this historic city while also going for hikes in the beautiful Pecos National Historical Park, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Park, or one of the trails on Atalaya Mountain. Considering its Native American and Spanish influences, Santa Fe is home to some incredible food, so make sure to check out the array of food trucks available downtown.
13 Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is home to a bountiful selection of luxury resorts, nightclubs, dreamy golf courses, and more. Nicknamed the ‘Valley of the Sun,’ you can expect as much, even in November. Make sure to check out the Camelback hiking trail, just 20 minutes outside of downtown Phoenix. If you're into shopping, there are several designer stores in Phoenix, and if your wallet is short on cash, Buffalo Exchange is a great second-hand store to visit for some of the best deals on designer clothing in the country.
14 Las Vegas, Nevada
If you’ve ever considered going to Vegas, November is the best month to go. You’ll beat the summer crowds but get all the same benefits of 24/7 casinos, designer shopping, outdoor activities, and more. The famous Las Vegas Strip is host to some of the brightest lights and attractions of the Southwest. The best part about Vegas is if you want a break from the party, drive just 20 minutes outside of downtown, and you’ve reached Red Rock Canyon, a 13-mile scenic drive offering exceptional hiking and camping.
15 Orlando, Florida
Visit Orlando in November and enjoy warm weather, sparser crowds, and beautiful sunsets. Hurricane season has come to an end which makes the water and city calmer. November is ideal weather for golf so make sure to check out the Marriott Grande Golf Club of Pines, Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, or Bay Hill Golf Club. If you’re a foodie, there’s plenty of upscale restaurants to visit in Orlando, plus the Epcot International Food and Wine Fest.
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