Fall Vacation Ideas

While some travelers simply can't live without their yearly beach vacation, others can't wait for an autumn getaway to the mountains or ski chalet rental in winter! As summer winds down, travel discounts are just getting started. Individuals or families looking to travel this fall have a great array of choice destinations to choose from.

Below are five of the most popular adventures for autumn travelers.

1. Vermont Mountain Resort - Vibrant fall foliage makes Vermont a yearly favorite for fall travel, whether as a romantic retreat or family vacation. The lush mountains ease the mind and make travel cozy and refreshing. Through September and October, the days are sunny and evenings are crisp--just perfect for all of the hiking, kayaking, canoeing and fishing visitors enjoy in the beautiful mountain scenery. For couples seeking day trips and evenings, there is wine tasting at vineyards and wineries like Boyden Valley Winery. For groups, resorts like Smuggler's Notch offer heated pools, mini golf, onsite parks, and more. One additional bonus: Montreal, Canada is a day trip away. Vermont offers the best of the US, plus a little taste of Europe right next door.

2. Chalet in the Smoky Mountains - Cities like Gatlinburg, Tennessee showcase the beauty of the lush mountains in the South, along with expansive natural parks like Smoky Mountain National Park features. Not only that, but weekend vacation packages accommodate vacationers and shoppers looking for a great vacation at low prices. Consider reserving a package in Gatlinburg rather than Pigeon Forge, as the latter is pricier and much more crowded. There are many activities for couples as well as families, including a visit to Smoky Mountain State Park, Dollywood amusement park, numerous outdoor activities and music festivals, fine dining, and entertaining evening shows.

3. Family Halloween Fun at Disneyland - Beginning September 25 (and ending November 1), Disneyland celebrates Halloween Time with entertaining, yet spooky décor, a fall fireworks show, and all the regular fun too. Visitors get to see Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, a ride that features eerie sound effects and sights, along with the wildly popular Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction and Disney's Happiest Haunt Tours.

4. Romantic Getaway to Napa Valley - A trip to America's wine country makes an ideal autumn getaway for couples. Weekend getaway packages to this region often include rooms with cozy fireplaces, wine and champagne baskets, and even hot air balloon rides over the valleys and vineyards. Should you get your fill of fine wine and dining, couples can always hit the beautiful nearby beach communities that are a short drive away.

5. Exhilarating Alaskan Cruise - September is also a prime time to visit Alaska--particularly considering the fantastic cruise deals available. In Alaska, fall comes early, giving the deciduous trees yellow and red hues by Labor Day. This along with the aspen trees, willows, bright red tundra plants makes a glorious background for the wildlife, snowy peaks, and--if you're lucky--the Northern Lights. Popular Alaskan cruises offer entertaining nightlife, succulent buffets, and enjoyable daytime excursions and onboard activities for vacationers of all ages.

What is your favorite autumn destination? Or what autumn trip is first on your list of places to see and things to do? Check out vacation packages, including deals for vacations under $500, and tell us which seem the best value or the best based on your own travel experience.