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Why is early October a great time to travel?
- Taking a trip during the first part of October can offer travelers a variety of attractions, from entrancing autumn colors to enjoying some of the last warm weather before winter sets in.
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How does Columbus Day affect travel plans?
- Columbus Day, for many people, provides a three-day weekend to make it easier to explore a new place, whether by car, plane, or boat.
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Steamboat Springs, CO
Soak in hot springs and ski powdery slopes on an exciting winter trip.
Crisp weather, lowered prices on lodging, restaurants, and flights, and a chance to enjoy trails that aren’t packed full of tourists are all great reasons to consider a Columbus Day vacation to Steamboat Springs, Colorado . In October, you can often stroll right into restaurants that are typically reservation only or often have a long wait during ski season and enjoy not having to wait for a table. As for entertainment, there are ample opportunities for outdoor picnics, often with bright blue skies and sunny days, as well as fly fishing, hiking, biking, and many other relaxing activities during this battery recharging time of year.
Poconos, PA
Hike scenic trails and unwind in a cozy, romantic mountain getaway.
Observing the fall foliage is one of the main attractions in the Poconos Mountains during early October, and there are a variety of exciting and adventurous ways to see the changing colors. Air tours are available in two ways: you can charter a flight from a local air tour company or climb even higher and skydive over the Pocono mountains themselves. Both offer unique panoramic views of the diverse colors during autumn, but for those who want to keep their feet on the ground, there plenty of hiking trails with vistas that offer splendid views. Families may enjoy a visit to the Poconos Adventure Park for outdoor fun, giving the children a chance to burn off some energy and the parents an opportunity to relax while surrounded by the vibrant display of the mountains.
Aspen, CO
Ski world-class slopes and savor upscale dining on a luxurious weekend escape.
Deep in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and surrounded by striking peaks and vistas, Aspen is primarily a ski town, but is often enjoyed heavily during the other seasons by various crowds. When the summer tourists leave the Rockies and head home and Columbus Day rolls around, taking a trip to Aspen means a vacation with beautiful hikes, easy access to restaurants and typically lower prices than you would see other times of the year. There is the Aspen Saturday Market that offers table produce and handcrafted items, and guests can easily reach some of the most photographed peaks in North America, known as the Maroon Bells.
Eureka Springs, AR
Stroll Victorian streets and explore unusual shops on a charming couples retreat.
Although Eureka Springs doesn’t host any special Columbus Day events, that does not mean that spending the first part of October won’t be a blast. With fall weather just around the corner in this tiny city, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors without the sweltering heat native to the area in summer time. While exploring the town, guests can look at preserved Victorian buildings such as the Palace Bath House and the Crescent Hotel. For stunning architecture with a view there is Thorncrown Chapel, a church built primarily out of glass and wood located in the nearby hills.
Stowe, VT
Admire fall foliage and ski snowy trails on a classic seasonal trip.
Far north in the state of Vermont, Stowe typically experiences some of its last warm and pleasant bouts of weather before winter returns for the year. As many visitors to the area want to enjoy the last bit of summertime fun before winter hits, Stowe undergoes one of its busiest weekends of the whole year during Columbus Day weekend, and because of this it is recommended to book lodging far in advance. There are many interesting activities for families and individuals, such as taking a tour at the Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory or driving up Auto Toll Road to get to the top of summit ridge.
Wichita, KS
Visit museums and explore affordable attractions on a fun family weekend.
Wichita is located on the Arkansas River in south-central Kansas and is the largest city in Kansas. The city started its life as a trading post in the 1860s on the Chisholm Trail. Later, it became known as “Cowtown” as it was a destination for large cattle drives north, between Texas and the railroads. Modern Wichita is known as a major American center of the aircraft industry and the cultural heart of Kansas. Learn more about Wichita’s past by visiting the Old Cowtown Museum, where you can see a realistic recreated 19th-century village, where costumed guides tell the stories about the way of life in Old Wichita . Botanica Gardens is a serene place with a Chinese garden and a meadow full of wildflowers. The kids will love the Museum of World Treasures, with its T. rex skeleton and real Egyptian mummies.
Bar Harbor, ME
Hike Acadia trails and enjoy coastal sights on a scenic retirement escape.
Filled with many things to do, including shops, attractions, family entertainment options, and a large assortment of outdoor activities, Bar Harbor is a great place to take an October vacation for Columbus Day. Visiting during this time will usually coincide with the peak of leaf color changing season and Canadian Thanksgiving, so you can expect many guests in the area, and it is recommended to book accomodations ahead of time. With brisk weather a distinct possibility, Bar Harbor, ME offers the chance for visitors to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities, from hiking along the waterfront and enjoying scenic views of nature to catching a movie or show, eating at a variety of family friendly restaurants, or visiting a local museum.
Mystic, CT
Tour historic ships and savor seafood during a peaceful weekend with the family.
Founded and built where the Mystic River reaches the Block Island Sound, Mystic is a small town with deep regional roots, and a visit to this quaint location is sure to be a relaxing get away from the stresses of everyday life. Every year on Columbus Day, Mystic Seaport, the self proclaimed Museum of America and the Sea, hosts their popular Chowder Days festival. Showcasing a large variety of chowders and bisques made in numerous ways, this festival also offers clam fritters, sausages, chicken kabobs, fish tacos, apple fritters, beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. During the festival there are many harvest orientated activities as well as children’s activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Miami, FL
Relax on the beach and dance all night on an exciting summer getaway.
Annually on Columbus Day, Miami holds a gigantic festival that draws crowds from all over to enjoy and partake in the festivities. The Miami Broward One Carnival is a bi-country event that is held primarily in the Miami -Dade County Fairgrounds with many other festivities taking place throughout the city proper. Typically the event includes a celebration of culture, traditions, and heritage of the Caribbean through dance, music, entertainers, food, and much more. There is fun for all ages in Miami, from young pageantry to world-class musical entertainers. Guests are invited to come dressed in costume if they please, and the Parade of the Bands is the official start of the celebrations.
Burlington, VT
Walk Church Street Market and enjoy lake views on a laid-back weekend trip.
Spending Columbus Day in Burlington, Vermont offers visitors to the area a unique chance to see the town during the highlight of the fall foliage season, depending on how heavy the rains have been prior to visiting. Lake Champlain will be a bit too cold for swimming, but boating and fishing are still very viable options, and the crisp air will make hiking and biking more comfortable.
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