3 Frequently Overlooked U.S. Fall Travel Destinations
Fall travel is an excellent opportunity to visit locations while benefiting from off-season air fare, room rates and admission costs. Nature lovers, gourmands and families with kids in tow find something fun to do as America welcomes the fall season.
Leadville, Colorado for the Fall Colors
Situated in Lake County, Leadville is a city that almost went under when the local mine closed down. It barely remained in existence but today features a well-preserved historic district. It is situated in the Rocky Mountains and makes a great base for nature drives up and down the I-70 and US 24, especially when in search of fall colors.
The changing leaves of the aspens usually peak between the end of September and the first five to 10 days of October, so plan your trip accordingly. Stop by the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum -- a great educational opportunity when traveling with children -- and don't forget to stay at the historic Delaware Hotel, which dates back to 1886.
La Jolla, California for Outdoor Recreation
Find La Jolla in sunny Southern California's San Diego County. Nestled against the Pacific Ocean's beachfront, the city is world-famous for being the home of the Torrey Pines Golf Course. This venue has hosted the U.S. Open as well as the PGA Tour's Buick Invitational. Play the course in the foot steps of the masters, all the while enjoying the balmy Mediterranean climate -- as opposed to baking in the summer heat during the regular vacation season. Be sure to take advantage of the twilight rates, which start at 1:30 p.m. on September 6 and gradually get earlier and earlier.
When golf is not on the agenda, head to one of the gorgeous beaches and spend some time walking, sketching nature or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. Stay at the La Valencia Hotel for unrivaled rates and ocean views. During the fall, an Ocean-facing suite cost $695 per night; reduce the rate to $626 with an AARP or AAA membership.
Cincinnati, Ohio for the Oktoberfest
Colorado boasts a large festivity in Denver's Larimer Square; having visited the festivities there, it is hard to believe that it can get bigger or better. That said, Hamilton County's Cincinnati succeeds with flying colors. Event hosts set up the Oktoberfest to create an overload of beer, bratwurst and lederhosen. Since this celebration takes place literally at the tail-end of summer and first day of fall, it is perfect for a first trip during the autumnal travel season.
Be sure to enjoy the Cincinnati chili from one of the dedicated eateries, spend some time at the Findlay Market and stay at the Cincinnatian for its proximity to all the action as well as its historic appeal.
Establishment Information
National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum
120 W. 9th Street in Leadville, CO 80461
Open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. (May through October) and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (November to April)
Cost of admission is $7 for visitors 12 and over; children between six and 12 pay $3; youngsters under six enter for free
(719) 486-1229
700 Harrison Avenue in Leadville, CO 80461
(800) 748-2004
11480 North Torrey Pines Road in La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 452-3226
1132 Prospect Street in La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-0771
Downtown on Fifth Street (between Race and Broadway) in Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 579-3194
1801 Race Street in Cincinnati, OH 45202
Open Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday
(513) 665-4839
601 Vine Street in Cincinnati, OH 45202
(800) 942-9000
Published by Sylvia Cochran - Featured Contributor in Travel
Sylvia Cochran works out of sunny Southern California and has been freelance writing -- full-time -- since 2005. SEO-optimized Internet copy includes news analysis, political Op/Ed and parenting as well as a... View profile
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