If you are having a hard time saying goodbye to summer this autumn, then plan a trip to a desert destination to embrace warm weather as long as it lasts. All of the desert cities on this list are blistering hot during the summer. However, the fall season brings milder temperatures, making them great travel spots during September, October, and November. Consider booking a fall getaway to one of these United States desert destinations.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
This charming desert city makes for a great fall getaway full of history, art, and outdoor recreation. This eclectic destination is perfect for both art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With cooler temperatures during the fall months, hiking and biking have become popular activities in Santa Fe during this time of year. Along with getting outdoors, also hit up the great art galleries and local shopping offered in downtown Santa Fe. Make sure to view the Puye Cliff Dwellings, which are pueblo ruins that were used from the 10th to the 16th centuries.
Sedona, Arizona
The views of red rock mountains alone should attract you to this Arizona city this fall. Sedona has grown into a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and runners due to the many mountain trails found here. This unique town has attracted artists and spiritual seekers for years, as Sedona is said to have high concentrations of spiritual energy or vortexes. So if you’re looking to get your future read or to find the perfect crystal for your spiritual practice, Sedona is the city to visit. However, you don’t have to be the spiritual type to enjoy a stay in this desert destination.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is an extremely popular travel destination every month of the year. If you can’t say goodbye to summer just yet, Las Vegas is the perfect place to visit to find a summer vibe during the fall months. Watch a live show, dance the night away, or simply sip cocktails by the pool. There is so much to see and do along the Vegas Strip that there is no need to leave. However, if you want to explore more of Las Vegas, there are hiking and camping options outside of the city.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
If you want an outdoor escape this fall season, then head to Joshua Tree National Park, a desert park that is a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. This national park is a popular destination during spring and summer, so you’ll find fewer people and open campsites during the autumn months, along with plenty of unique glamping rentals. Hikers, bikers, and rock climbers will enjoy the more mild temperatures at this time of year. However, nights can be cold, so make sure to pack layers if you intend to visit this desert spot this fall.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs has drawn celebrities, artists, and hip travelers for decades. This California desert oasis is known for its hot temperatures and natural hot springs. However, the fall season here brings both mild temperatures and desert-seeking tourists. Relaxing by the pool with a cold drink is a popular activity here. However, there is more to do than just that. Explore the retro town, where you’ll find great bars, vintage shopping, and eateries. Along with a number of golf courses and resort options, Palm Springs makes for a wonderful getaway for all types of fall travelers.
Moab, Utah
Fall in Moab is part of the peak tourist season. However, that shouldn’t deter you from visiting this Utah desert destination. Outdoor recreation dominates the scene here. No matter if you enjoy four-wheeling, hiking, rafting, camping, or mountain biking, Moab attracts all kinds of nature lovers. Due to its proximity to Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, Moab has become a popular tourist hub. The small town of Moab is a fun place to explore, too, where the downtown area is full of interesting shops and eateries.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
If you’ve ever wanted to fly in a hot air balloon high above a mountainous desert view, then you should head to Albuquerque, New Mexico, this fall. Albuquerque is the place to go for hot-air ballooning. Every October, the city plays host to the International Balloon Fiesta, one of the biggest hot-air balloon festivals in the nation. However, the hot air balloons aren’t the only things that continue to draw travelers to Albuquerque. Full of history, great food, and outdoor recreation, this desert city offers a lot to newcomers and tourists.
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson is another Arizona city that is worth a visit this autumn season. As the second-largest city in the state, Tucson offers a number of great resorts for those wanting a romantic getaway or even a family vacation. Like many other destinations on this list, Tucson is also a popular travel destination to enjoy outdoor activities in the desert and mountains. Make sure to have a photo shoot in the area of Old Tucson and enjoy the warm weather here, as Tucson is the most southern desert destination on this list.
