By Andrew Hickey, www.thebrooklynnomad.com
As summer comes to a close, it’s time to think about planning the perfect fall vacation. Typically, the months between the lazy days of summer and the holiday season are less popular with travelers, which means cheap deals may be found at many top destinations across the country. So whether you’re a leaf peeper in search of some autumn foliage or a serious beach bum who would like a few more days of surf and sand, check out five of my favorite affordable fall weekend getaways.
Chicago: While summertime in the Windy City is extremely popular with tourists – causing hotel rates to rise with the temperature – and the winter climate is better suited to polar bears and penguins, fall is a beautiful and affordable time to visit. If possible, plan your getaway for the Columbus Day weekend, and check out the Chicago Marathon on Oct. 9 for a truly memorable experience.
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Las Vegas: Sin City is sizzling in the summer, so fall is the perfect time to book a cheap flight and hotel. The temperatures are comfortable, which means you can spend more time wandering the Strip and less time emptying your wallet at slot machines and poker tables. If you’re looking to spend the money you saved on travel, Vegas will provide you with plenty of options, including Blue Man Group, Zumanity and many more events.
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Portland, Ore.: The Rose City is often overlooked by its more popular Pacific Northwest neighbor, Seattle. However, Portland packs a punch for budget travelers visiting during the fall, with affordable hotel rates and inviting attractions. The city is both bike-friendly and walkable for people looking to explore outdoors. Be sure to visit one or all of the numerous Portland museums, stop by the Japanese Garden and pack on the pounds at Voodoo Doughnut, a foodie favorite.
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Savannah, Ga.: Southern hospitality is awaiting you this fall if you make your travel plans to cozy Savannah. From the historic architecture to the outstanding comfort food, the Garden City offers plenty to do for all types of travelers. Check out the Savannah Jazz Festival (Sept. 18-25) and the Savannah Film Festival (Oct. 29-Nov. 5) for two autumn activities that bring even more excitement to this bustling Southern locale. Rooms are affordable, too, if you check in to one of the many romantic bed and breakfasts or historic inns.
Spend a weekend in Savannah next month.
Myrtle Beach, S.C.: If you need more time to lounge beachside, look no further than Myrtle Beach, which boasts more than 60 miles of white, sandy beaches. Lessening crowds and decreasing hotel rates mean a more enjoyable and affordable weekend getaway. Myrtle Beach offers some of the country’s top golf courses, fun amusement-park rides, historic attractions, exciting nightlife — and did we mention plenty of sand and surf?
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Guest blogger Andrew Hickey is a New York-based travel writer and full-time social media manager for Gap Adventures. He also writes a popular blog called The Brooklyn Nomad, which covers travel news, deals, tips and more. Follow him @BrooklynNomad and check him out on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/brooklynnomad.