While there’s no such thing as the perfect fall getaway, I’ve always believed that something short and sweet, a trip that doesn’t take you too far away from home is as close to it as you can get.
No expensive intercontinental flights, no hours trying to figure out the currency exchange rates, no getting lost somewhere you’ve never been before – just a fun, stress-free vacation that’ll make transitioning into the colder months feel that much easier.
I know that some of you might be trying to get out of that “been there, done that” rut, but luckily for you, Book Retreats just came out with a new study that’ll provide plenty of inspiration to feed your wanderlust.
The company ranked the best places (attractions) to visit in the U.S. based on a dataset of over 7,500 visitor reviews, analyzing critical criteria like overall experience, popularity, nearby hotel costs, safety, and price complaints.
So if you want to go somewhere you know you’ll have an amazing time this season, just read through the list below and take your pick!
5. Times Square
I know, I know—Times Square seems like the most obvious touristy choice, but the truth is that places get popular for a reason.
Despite the rowdy crowds sometimes being too overwhelming to handle, this classic New York gem still manages to hold onto its all-American charm.
And even though Times Square’s never fully quiet, those lucky enough to come here during fall will find that it’s far less chaotic compared to summer or winter – so if you want to take in the bright billboards, grab a slice of New York-style pizza, and people watch in peace now’s the best time to book those tickets.
If that’s not enough to convince you, accommodation also tends to get cheaper this time of year, which is a huge plus considering the usual price levels in the area.
This hotel just a one-minute walk away from the square currently has available rooms for as little as $180 a night.
4. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
If you want to switch things up this season and see something truly incredible, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which (bonus point!) is located right inside another one of the attractions that made it to today’s list, so you can plan a 2-in-1 situation to get the most out of your time off.
Not only will you get to see everything from dinosaur fossils to the iconic Hope Diamond, but the museum also curates special exhibits that align with the season – right now, this means themes of wildlife migration, harvest traditions, and so much more.
Before you ask, entry is completely free of charge but that also means that you’ll have to deal with some big crowds and long wait lines, so do your best to avoid peak times.
3. Balboa Park
Next, we have a nature lover’s dream (and one of my personal favorites): San Diego’s stunning Balboa Park.
You don’t even have to be big on plants to have a fantastic time here.
Between the museums, aesthetic gardens, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, everyone will find something to love—including the famous San Diego Zoo.
And with a 97% rate of positive reviews, you’re all but guaranteed an amazing time here.
2. National Mall
Are you intrigued by the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History we talked about before?
I have good news for you—it’s located right inside the National Mall in D.C., one of North America’s greatest cultural and historical attractions.
Here, you’ll get to experience everything from the Washington Monument to the National Gallery of Art; that is, when you’re not too busy admiring an outdoor installation, a touching memorial, or a one-of-a-kind art piece – all of which are scattered all over the place!
According to Book Retreats, though, travelers especially love the National Museum of African American History, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial right now, so definitely add these to the top of your list.
1. Central Park
With a total score of 4.075 out of 5, Central Park is officially the best attraction in the U.S., and frankly, it’s easy to see why.
Sure, the place can get a bit crowded at times, but considering its location, cultural allure, and the fact that it’s literally 843 acres of vibrant-colored trees in the heart of the most famous city on Earth, I’m sure every single one of us would be happy to sacrifice a tiny bit of comfort to get to sit and take in Central Park at least once in our lives.
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