Why Fall is the Best Time for Group Getaways: Perfect Destinations, Events, and Stress-Free Travel Planning with HousMthr

Will Schmahl
Oct 06, 2024By Will Schmahl

Fall has officially arrived, and as the crisp evening air settles in, we’ve all reached for our favorite sweater or jacket. This season brings not only beautiful scenery but also a host of seasonal events, making it the perfect time for memorable trips with friends and family. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to soak in the vibrant fall foliage, attending a Halloween festival, or retreating to a cozy cabin in the woods, autumn is packed with travel opportunities that shouldn’t be missed.


gray and red train running on rail in between trees at daytime

Here’s why fall is the best time for group getaways, how HousMthr can make organizing these trips a breeze, and some must-have products to bring along—all conveniently available on Amazon.

Stunning Fall Destinations for Every Type of Traveler

Fall offers some of the most breathtaking scenery of the year. Whether your group enjoys outdoor adventures, relaxing retreats, or city escapes, there’s a perfect fall destination for everyone. Here are a few standout destinations to consider:

New England

a white building with a steeple surrounded by trees and a hill with orange and yellow leaves

Famous for its vibrant foliage, New England is the quintessential fall destination. A trip to Vermont, New Hampshire, or Massachusetts in late September or early October offers a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s picturesque small towns, colorful trees, and cozy inns. Ideal for hiking, apple picking, and scenic drives, it’s a great choice for groups looking to unwind and explore nature.

The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

empty road during daytime

For groups that love road trips, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers over 400 miles of scenic beauty, especially in fall. Drive through the Appalachian Mountains, stop for hikes, and enjoy fall festivals along the way. The region also offers countless opportunities for camping, making it a perfect destination for adventure-loving groups.

Salem, Massachusetts

Halloween in Salem Massachusetts

If your group is into spooky vibes, there’s no better place to visit than Salem, the home of the infamous witch trials. The town goes all out for Halloween, with haunted houses, ghost tours, and themed events throughout October. It’s a great spot for groups to celebrate Halloween together.

Napa Valley, California

green single cab pickup truck carrying squash

For groups who prefer a slower pace and appreciate fine wine, Napa Valley during fall harvest season offers beautiful vineyards, cool temperatures, and wine-tasting experiences. It’s also a perfect time for spa retreats and gourmet dining.

Seasonal Events and Experiences to Share

Fall is filled with festivals and events that can turn any trip into a memorable experience. Here are just a few that might inspire your group getaway:

Halloween Events

From haunted hayrides to costume parties and spooky tours, Halloween events are a great excuse to gather a group of friends for a thrilling fall trip. Many cities and small towns host haunted festivals, but places like Sleepy Hollow, New York, and New Orleans really embrace the season with ghost tours and events. Look out for our next blog post on top halloween events in USA next!

Oktoberfest Celebrations

typical ginger bread heart

Fall is also the time for Oktoberfest celebrations around the world. If you can’t make it to Munich, consider cities like Leavenworth, Washington, or Helen, Georgia, which host large-scale Oktoberfest events filled with beer, bratwurst, and Bavarian music.

Harvest Festivals

Whether it’s pumpkin picking, cider tasting, or exploring a corn maze, fall harvest festivals are fun for groups of all ages. These festivals are often located in rural areas, providing the perfect excuse for a weekend escape into the countryside.

Foliage Train Rides

Many regions, like the Catskills in New York or the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, offer scenic train rides through stunning fall foliage. It’s a unique and relaxing way for your group to enjoy the season’s beauty together.

Recommended Products for Fall Events

Down Jackets

Lightweight, warm, and easy to pack, a good down jacket is essential for chilly fall mornings and evenings. We recommend the Tommy Hilfiger men’s Ultra Loft Lightweight Packable Puffer Jacket for its warmth and portability. For women, check out the Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket.

Insulated Travel Mugs


Keep your drinks warm during long drives or hikes with an insulated mug like the YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler, perfect for sipping hot cider or coffee on the go.

Hiking Boots

Fall trips often involve outdoor activities like hiking or walking through scenic towns. Make sure your feet are supported and comfortable with a pair of waterproof hiking boots like the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot or the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot.

Travel Blanket

For cozy fireside chats or impromptu picnics, a portable travel blanket is a must. The REDCAMP Outdoor Camping Blanket is lightweight, packable, and designed for outdoor use. Or for outdoor fall events like pumpkin picking or enjoying a concert, pack a soft, durable picnic blanket like a ACUSHLA Merino Wool Camp Blanket, perfect for groups.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or relaxing at a vineyard, a portable speaker like the JBL Flip 5 ensures your group has the perfect soundtrack for every occasion.

PORTABLE TABLE TOP FIREPLACE

It is light and easy to transport so you can move it anywhere. You could use this small personal fireplace to add warmth and ambience to your desk, a side table in your living room, or as a centerpiece for your main dining table. ATR ART TO REAL

Why Fall Group Trips Are Easier to Plan with HousMthr

Traveling with a group can be stressful, but fall trips are often less hectic than summer vacations—especially when you use HousMthr to streamline the planning. Here’s how HousMthr can take your fall group getaway from good to great:

Room Assignments and Management: Whether you’re renting a large vacation home, a set of cabins, or multiple hotel rooms, HousMthr makes it easy to assign rooms to each person in your group. No more confusion about who’s staying where—everyone can see their accommodations ahead of time.

Shared Itineraries and Task Lists: Fall getaways often come with busy schedules, from scenic hikes to festival events. HousMthr allows everyone to stay on the same page with shared itineraries. You can assign tasks, such as picking up groceries or organizing transportation, and make sure nothing gets forgotten.

Real-Time Updates and Location Sharing: Whether your group is attending a large event or hiking in the woods, it’s easy to get separated. With HousMthr’s real-time location sharing, everyone knows where each group member is, so there’s no need to worry about losing track of anyone.

Expense Tracking Made Easy: Fall trips often involve group purchases—whether it’s gas for a road trip, supplies for a bonfire, or tickets to a festival. HousMthr’s expense tracking feature ensures everyone can split costs fairly and easily, avoiding those awkward money conversations.

Fall is an underrated season for group trips. The cooler weather, stunning landscapes, and unique seasonal events make it a perfect time to get together with family and friends. With the help of HousMthr, you can enjoy the beauty of fall without the stress of planning—leaving more time to relax, explore, and make memories with your group.

And don’t forget to gear up with the right products to make your fall adventures even more comfortable and fun! So, what are you waiting for? Gather your group, pick your perfect fall destination, and let HousMthr handle the rest!