5 November Weekend Road Trip Ideas by Region
November is a perfect time to embark on a weekend road trip, enjoying the last bits of fall before winter arrives. Depending on where you are in the U.S., you can experience everything from mountain landscapes to historic towns, tranquil prairies to scenic coastlines. Here are five unique weekend road trip ideas, each from a different region across the United States.
1. Northeast: Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont, is a quintessential New England town with a mix of beautiful mountains, scenic byways, and cozy charm. In early November, you may still catch some lingering fall foliage in the Northeast, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and anyone seeking relaxation.
- Activities: Take a drive along Route 108, passing through Smugglers’ Notch for breathtaking mountain views. Stop by the Trapp Family Lodge for a touch of Austrian-inspired coziness or explore the town’s local shops and eateries. Stowe is also home to a variety of breweries and cideries, making it a great spot for sampling local drinks.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who loves New England’s peaceful fall atmosphere.
2. Southeast: Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville, Kentucky, offers a unique blend of Southern culture, historic charm, and vibrant city life. Known for its bourbon heritage and warm Southern hospitality, Louisville is a perfect November destination with mild temperatures and plenty to explore.
- Cultural Highlights: Start with the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to see how the iconic baseball bats are made, or explore NuLu (New Louisville) for trendy boutiques, art galleries, and fantastic dining spots.
- Bourbon Experiences: As the gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville is home to renowned distilleries like Evan Williams and Angel’s Envy, where you can enjoy tastings and learn about the craft of bourbon-making.
- Outdoor Exploration: Head to Cherokee Park for scenic fall walks or visit Cave Hill Cemetery, a beautiful, historic cemetery that doubles as a peaceful nature escape.
- Historic Neighborhoods: Walk through Old Louisville to see some of the country’s most beautiful Victorian architecture, which is especially atmospheric in the cool autumn light.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Located further inland, Louisville offers a culturally rich and vibrant experience without coastal weather concerns, and November’s mild weather is perfect for exploring the city.
- Ideal for: History buffs, bourbon enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet lively city escape.
3. Midwest: Flint Hills, Kansas
For readers based in Nebraska, Kansas, and nearby areas, the Flint Hills region in Kansas is an incredible Midwest road trip destination. Known for its rolling tallgrass prairies and small-town charm, this area is especially stunning in November as the fields turn golden under the autumn light.
- Activities: Drive along the Flint Hills Scenic Byway on Kansas Highway 177, which takes you through beautiful landscapes. Stop by the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City for a hike or a guided tour to learn about this unique ecosystem and its history.
- Explore Small Towns: Visit Cottonwood Falls for local shops, historic architecture, and the iconic Chase County Courthouse, or head to Council Grove, a historic town that was a key stop on the Santa Fe Trail.
- Seasonal Highlights: November often brings fall festivals and seasonal events at local farms and ranches. Cozy bed-and-breakfasts in the area offer a peaceful retreat for a restful weekend.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: The Flint Hills is close to both Nebraska and Kansas, offering a serene, natural getaway with unique Midwest charm. With open prairies and historic towns, it’s perfect for a quiet weekend escape.
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the Midwest’s prairies and small towns.
4. Southwest: Taos, New Mexico
Taos, New Mexico, is a unique desert escape with stunning landscapes, rich Indigenous history, and a lively arts scene. Known for its iconic adobe architecture, Taos in November brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a perfect fall road trip destination.
- Things to Do: Visit Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Explore Taos’s art galleries, or take a dip in the area’s hot springs, like Manby Hot Springs, for a relaxing retreat.
- Local Flavors: Sample traditional New Mexican cuisine at local restaurants like Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe, where green chiles and Southwestern spices add a unique flair.
- Scenic Highlights: The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers breathtaking views, especially striking in the late autumn light.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: Taos provides a unique mix of cultural richness and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those wanting both relaxation and exploration in the Southwest.
- Ideal for: Culture seekers, history buffs, and anyone looking to unwind in a one-of-a-kind Southwestern town.
5. West: Big Sur, California
Big Sur, California, is a classic West Coast road trip destination known for its dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and lush forests. In November, Big Sur’s crowds begin to thin, allowing for a quieter experience on the famous Pacific Coast Highway.
- Scenic Overview: Begin your drive on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), where you’ll encounter jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. Iconic spots like Bixby Creek Bridge and Pfeiffer Beach are must-stops for breathtaking photos.
- Outdoor Exploration: Take a hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you’ll find the famous McWay Falls cascading onto the beach. For a touch of local culture, visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library or stop by one of the area’s cozy cafes.
- Weather in November: With mild temperatures and clearer skies, November in Big Sur is ideal for coastal hikes and scenic drives.
- Why It’s a Good Choice: The area’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks make Big Sur a dream for road trippers and photographers alike, offering peaceful landscapes in November.
- Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for a classic California coastal adventure.
November Road Trips
A November road trip is a perfect way to enjoy the final colors of fall, and each U.S. region has something special to offer. From the mountains and historic charm of Louisville to the tranquil prairies of Flint Hills and the iconic coastal views of Big Sur, these destinations provide diverse experiences that capture the unique beauty of late autumn. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an unforgettable November weekend getaway.
FAQs
The Northeast, especially places like Stowe, Vermont, still showcases lingering fall foliage in early November, making it a fantastic choice for leaf-peepers.
Yes, each destination offers family-friendly activities, from hiking trails and scenic overlooks to museums and historical sites.
The Flint Hills in Kansas is perfect for those looking to experience cozy small towns, beautiful prairies, and warm hospitality.
Yes, many of these destinations, like Flint Hills or Louisville, offer budget-friendly lodging and activities, making it easy to plan an affordable weekend getaway.
Pack layers for cooler temperatures, comfortable hiking or walking shoes, a camera, and a guidebook or travel app to help with local recommendations.