Benefits of Getaways For Your Family During the Fall

You already know that family vacations are lots of fun, but recent studies show they go even further. Getting away from daily life’s routines and responsibilities affords family members a chance to bond and improve relationships while creating special memories that last a lifetime. Family members return refreshed and more productive at work or school.

Families have traditionally scheduled vacations for summer when schools are closed. However, a fall getaway can be quite enticing and possible thanks to fast and efficient travel. As a plus most schools and colleges give students a few fall days for fall break.

Benefits of Fall Travel

The benefits of fall vacations are obvious. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, and in many locales, the period from September to November is known as the “shoulder season” with more affordable airfares and accommodations. Last but not least, you’ll find places bursting with stunning fall colors. Plan your fall getaway today and let the following ideas guide you.

National Parks

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park. It’s loved for its diversity of flora and fauna, breathtaking mountain views, and the colorful Southern Appalachian culture.

Book a stay at a luxury mountain cabin near the national park and attractions around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN. Take a day for an auto tour of the park to enjoy the views and visit historic buildings. Don’t leave out a visit to Dollywood’s great attractions like the Dollywood Express scenic train ride, musical shows, shops, restaurants, and more.

For families closer to the West Coast, the Grand Canyon is America’s second most visited park. Fall temperatures hover around the 60s at the South Rim near Flagstaff and 70s near the canyon floor. Fall is also the best time to spot elk in the park.

Washington, DC

Festivals are a great way to experience culture, and the nation’s capital has one of the best in the country. The DC Art All Night Festival takes place for two nights in late September with events from 7:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. The festival began in 2011 as a way to showcase local artists and attracted a crowd of more than 30,000 attendees. Over the years the festival grew to include over 20 participating neighborhoods and a crowd of around 180,000.

The events are spread around all of DC’s 8 wards with activities varying each night. They include visual and performing arts from painting, photography, and crafts to dance, literary arts, and theater. Events take place at both indoor and outdoor spaces with a chance to experience each of DC’s wards. Venues include public and private businesses and restaurants.

Before the evening events begin you’ll have a chance to visit the free Smithsonian museums with vast experiences in art, science, and history. Then before leaving DC, sign up for one of the city’s many enlightening tours to learn about the nation’s capital.

Europe

A trip abroad may be a little more difficult for families with children to squeeze in during the fall months. However, you may find that many school systems recognize the educational value of travel and are willing to accept time off traveling as an educational experience.

With that said fall events for families across the pond are plentiful and exciting. Munich, Germany is the most exciting place on the planet to celebrate Oktoberfest. The festivities begin in late September and last through October. It’s the world’s largest folk festival and an opportunity to experience the lively culture of Bavaria.

For another exciting fall event, head to the United Kingdom for the world-famous Bonfire Night also known as Guy Fawkes Night. Guy Fawkes was a prominent member of an English Catholic group involved in 1605’s failed Gunpowder plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

Fabulous displays of expensive pyrotechnics can be seen and heard all around the UK, England, and Scotland. As a reference, the UK spent £155m on the event in 2017.