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I used to get depressed when the end of summer rolled around. But I recently realized that the best time to travel is in the fall — which travel experts call the shoulder season. Not only do crowds disappear and temperatures start to drop, but you’ll find bargains nearly everywhere you go. Here are five places that get even better after Labor Day:
Delray Beach, Florida
Recently named Florida’s No. 1 beach by USA Today's Readers’ Choice Awards, this seaside town just north of Fort Lauderdale boasts a pristine, two-mile coastline. There’s a lively downtown, Atlantic Avenue, where you can browse boutiques and art galleries or choose from highly rated Mediterranean, Asian, Italian, and American restaurants. Also worth a visit: The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a center of Japanese culture in South Florida, while the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum highlights the region’s Black history and heritage. Located just steps from the beach and downtown, the moderately priced Crane’s Beach House features suites and villas with full kitchens and two saltwater swimming pools. More information: DowntownDelrayBeach.com
The Finger Lakes, New York
If you’re ready for relief from the blazing sun, there’s no more refreshing destination than this collection of 11 lakes stretching across the center of New York State. There’s something for everyone here, from the lush and leafy Cayuga and Seneca Lake Wine Trails (while red wines can be hit or miss in this region, the varietal whites — like Riesling and Gewurztraminer — are second to none) to spectacular hiking among the waterfalls and gorges at Buttermilk Falls and Watkins Glen state parks. You’ll find a wide range of reasonably priced accommodations, from converted castles to chain hotels, cozy inns and campgrounds. Or, for a special splurge, check out the historic Inns of Aurora with their hedonistic resort spa. More information: ILoveNY.com
Huntsville, Alabama
Best known as the home of NASA’s Marshall Space Center, the Rocket City is one of the South’s hidden gems. Start your visit at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the world’s largest space museum, where you can try out-of-this-world experiences like underwater astronaut training and a g-force flight simulator. Art aficionados shouldn’t miss the Huntsville Museum of Art, a world-class collection focusing on 19th and 20th-century American painters, sculptors, and glass artists. Stay in the center of it all at 106 Jefferson, a boutique hotel that’s perfect for a romantic weekend or a girls’ getaway. The Jefferson’s rooftop bar, Baker & Able, named for two primates who, in 1959, were the first animals to return safely from space, is the perfect place to wind down after a busy day. More information: Huntsville.org
San Juan Islands, Washington
This archipelago of over 170 islands, islets and reefs is only 100 miles from Seattle, but it feels like a different world. Fall is the perfect season to visit, with fewer crowds, cool nights, and sun-kissed days. The three main islands — San Juan, Orcas and Lopez — offer uncrowded beaches, scenic hiking trails, farm tours and seasonal menus at farm-to-table restaurants. You’ll also find fishing expeditions, vineyards, breweries and fall discounts at a variety of small hotels and inns. More information: VisitSanJuans.com
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio comes alive in the fall as locals and visitors emerge from their air-conditioned cocoons. In September, the city will unveil the World Heritage Center, an interpretive gateway to the Missions National Historical Park. The River Walk and historic Pearl District are bustling, with new restaurants and live music every night. On November 1, the city marks Día de los Muertos with spirited celebrations, including festive parades and colorful sugar skull displays. Best of all, hotel prices fall after Labor Day, with luxury brands like The Fairmount and boutiques like Hotel Contessa starting at less than $200 a night for two. More information: VisitSanAntonio.com
Are any of you taking a vacation this fall? Where are you going? Let us know in the comments below.
Alice Mollon
Follow Article Topics: Lifestyle
