November is a great time to travel. The atmosphere is getting cooler, the leaves are turning yellow and orange, and the holiday season is just around the corner. We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for some great places to visit in November with your family.
So, why November? Well, in some states, November can be frigid. But in others, the weather is perfect for enjoying all that fall has to offer. Many activities keep kids entertained, from pumpkin patches and corn mazes to hayrides and apple picking.
And, of course, there are cheaper hotel rates and shorter lines at attractions during the shoulder season. From Virginia to California, there are so many destinations that offer fun for all ages. So, whether you’re looking for a festive Thanksgiving celebration or some wintertime fun, these are the best places to visit in November in the USA with kids.
- New York City, New York
- San Francisco, California
- Washington, D.C.
- Orlando, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Kauai, Hawaii
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Flagstaff, Arizona
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Bayou Country, Louisiana
- Key West, Florida
- Aspen, Colorado
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Jekyll Island, Georgia
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Sedona, Arizona
- Sanibel Island, Florida
- Maui, Hawaii
- Chicago, Illinois
- Portland, Oregon
- Richmond, Virginia
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Moab, Utah
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Oahu, Hawaii
- Chincoteague, Virginia
- Miami, Florida
- Savannah, Georgia
- Palm Springs, California
- Roanoke, Virginia
- San Antonio, Texas
- Socorro, New Mexico
- Wrapping Up
New York City, New York
The first stop on our list is New York City. This bustling metropolis is full of kid-friendly attractions like the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park. If your kids want some major excitement, they can check out the Bronx Zoo or one of the city’s many Broadway shows.
A trip to NYC is not complete without a visit to Rockefeller Center to see the Christmas tree and enjoy a family skate on the famous ice rink. Let’s face it. The Big Apple is one of the top destinations for food, sightseeing, and, of course, the double-decker tour bus.
New York City is a fantastic place to visit any time of year, but it comes alive in November. The city comes prepared, decked out in its holiday best, with festive lights and decorations everywhere you look.
If you’re in town for Thanksgiving, make sure to catch Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s an unforgettable annual tradition that’s not worth missing.
San Francisco, California
Next on our list is the gorgeous city of San Francisco, California. This west coast gem is a great place to visit in November, thanks to its mild weather and abundance of things to do. Kids love exploring the Golden Gate Bridge and riding the historic cable cars.
And be sure to check out Alcatraz Island, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. If you’re looking for holiday fun, San Francisco is the place to be.
The city hosts several holiday markets where you can find unique gifts for everyone on your list. And don’t miss the lighting of the giant Christmas tree at Union Square. It’s a truly magical sight.
Washington, D.C.
Our next stop is our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. This city is full of history and culture, making it a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring the Museum of Natural History and the National Zoo. And no trip to D.C. would be complete without a visit to the White House and the Lincoln Memorial.
In November, D.C. comes alive with the annual National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Families pay nothing for the event making it an excellent activity for families on a budget. The event usually commences on the first Thursday in December.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is the perfect destination if you’re looking for some warm weather in November. This Florida city is home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, making it a mecca for families with kids.
And with temperatures in the low 80s, you’ll be able to enjoy all the theme parks without having to stress about the crowds that come with summertime. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do in Orlando.
If you’re a golf fan, there are plenty of championship courses to choose from. Or, if you prefer shopping, you can find everything from high-end boutiques to outlet malls.
There’s also no shortage of dining options, with everything from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Of course, a trip to Orlando wouldn’t be complete without taking in a show at one of the many world-famous theme parks.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a historic city, full of charm and character, making it a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring the Freedom Trail and visiting the USS Constitution Museum. And be sure to check out Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.
In November, Boston, Massachusetts comes alive with the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s one of the country’s largest and most famous parades, attracting more than a million spectators yearly.
Don’t worry about missing the parade. You can still enjoy the festive atmosphere by checking out the many holiday markets and light displays around town.
Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, Hawaii is one of the most charming places in the world, and it’s a great place to visit with kids. The island is filled with stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and lush tropical forests. Since it has average temperatures in the low 80s, it’s a perfect escape from the cold weather back home.
There are things to keep kids entertained on Kauai. They can wander around the many tide pools and beaches, swim in the ocean and hike through one of the island’s many state parks.
Don’t forget to check out the Kauai Lagoons, a series of five freshwater lagoons perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina is a charming city with plenty to see and do. It’s home to historic landmarks like the Charleston Battery and Fort Sumter. Average temperatures here usually run in the mid-60s. It’s another destination that will allow you to get out and enjoy family activities comfortably.
There are also kid-friendly activities in Charleston. They can explore the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, ride on the carousel at Waterfront Park, or take a boat tour of the Charleston harbor. And don’t forget to check out the many shops and restaurants lining downtown Charleston’s streets.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff is a great place to visit in November for its mild weather and stunning scenery. This Arizona city is nestled among the towering pines of the San Francisco Peaks, making it an incredible place for a hike or a scenic drive.
Children can roam around the Lowell Observatory, experience a ride on the historic Route 66, or take a tour of the Grand Canyon. As much as the Grand Canyon gets talked about, it is still something you would have to see to believe.
Keep in mind that the Canyon might not be the best destination for babies. However, hiking the Grand Canyon can work as an extraordinary family adventure for older children.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a tropical getaway in November. This Hawaiian city is famous for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and lush greenery. And with average temperatures in the low 80s, it’s a great place to escape the cold weather back home.
Kids will love exploring Honolulu’s many attractions. They can learn about history at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, go for a swim at Waikiki Beach, or take a ride on the Honolulu Zoo Railway. And don’t forget to check out the city’s many shops and restaurants.
Bayou Country, Louisiana
Bayou Country is a great place to visit in November for its mild weather, seafood, and gorgeous lush scenery. This Louisiana region is filled with cypress trees, Spanish moss, and winding bayous, making it a perfect place to explore with kids.
The allure of the Spanish moss is indescribable. The trees look as if they have long fuzzy hair. The flowers grow so long that they touch the ground. We received a warning not to touch them since they tend to carry chiggers.
Supposedly, once the Spanish moss grows to the point of touching the ground, it gets invaded by chiggers. All of the trees we saw didn’t touch the ground, but it was better to be safe than sorry in this case. However, it didn’t stop us from taking some awesome pictures.
Kid-friendly activities in Bayou Country include a boat ride through the swamps, exploring a plantation house, or taking a tour of the Cajun Village.
Key West, Florida
Key West is a beautiful island city with plenty to see and do. It has many historic landmarks, including the Ernest Hemingway Home. Have you ever been to a historic landmark that housed up to 50 cats?
Well, you’re welcome. The Ernest Hemingway Home is the perfect museum to visit. You get to learn about the great Ernest Hemingway and see all the furry kitties that live there. There’s also the Key West Lighthouse. And with 80-degree temperature averages, it’s a perfect place to escape the cold weather back home.
There are also several family-friendly activities in Key West. They can swim at Smathers Beach, wander around the Butterfly Conservatory, or take a boat tour of the Key West harbor.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado is a beautiful mountain town to experience. It is filled with many wonderful ski resorts like Aspen Mountain and Snowmass. The average temperatures are in the low 40s. 40 Degrees is quite chilly, but it’s worth it if you prepare ahead of time and plan on skiing.
Aside from skiing, children still have other things to do for fun. They can go for a ride on the Aspen Gondola, explore the Aspen Art Museum, or enjoy a scenic hike. There are so many hiking trails in the area as well.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is an incredible city to visit in November. This Pennsylvania city is filled with historic landmarks like the Duquesne Incline and the Pittsburgh Zoo.
Temperatures can get tricky here. On average, temperatures run in the mid-50s. However, you may experience 20-degree weather. In some cases, Pittsburgh has moderate amounts of snowfall.
Remember to check the weekly forecast ahead of time. Children can enjoy themselves on a ride on the Duquesne Incline. They can also venture out to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History or take a boat tour of the Allegheny River.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island is a lovely island off the coast of Georgia with plenty to see and do. You and your family can visit historic landmarks like the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and the Jekyll Island Lighthouse. Temperatures here range between 60 and 75.
Kid-friendly activities include swimming at Great Dunes Beach, exploring the Jekyll Island Museum, or taking a bike ride through one of the many biking trails on the island.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is a great city to visit in November for its desert atmosphere. This New Mexico city has historic landmarks like the Albuquerque Museum and the Old Town Plaza. And with average temperatures in the mid-60s, it’s another perfect place to forget the frigid atmosphere back home.
Aside from experiencing the high desert, families can ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway, wander around the Petroglyph National Monument, or take a scenic drive through the Rio Grande Gorge.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a beautiful city in Arizona with plenty of things to indulge in. It includes top-of-the-line golf courses like the Sedona Golf Resort and the Oakcreek Country Club. Temperatures run in the 70s here, making it an incredible destination to escape the North snow.
There are family-friendly activities in Sedona. They can go for a hike in the Red Rock State Park, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, or drive through Oak Creek Canyon.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Florida with plenty to take in. It’s home to historic landmarks like the Sanibel Lighthouse and the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. There are many species to see, from shorebirds and pelicans to colonials.
Temperatures usually run in the low to high 80s, making it an excellent place for outdoor activity. Families can swim at Gulfside Beach, roam around the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, or take a journey through the Sanibel Causeway.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is a charming island in Hawaii with plenty to see and do. Any location in Hawaii has the allure of a tropical paradise. Maui includes stunning beaches like Kaanapali Beach and Wailea Beach. The weather makes the experience more fun. Expect the temperature to range in the low 80s.
Aside from great eateries, families can enjoy a swim at the Big Beach, visit the Haleakala National Park, or take a ride up the Hana Highway.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is another awesome city to visit in November. This Illinois city has many remarkable museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum of Natural History.
Let’s talk about the weather here. Chicago is known as a windy city, and for a good reason. During a chilly month like November, 45 degrees can feel much colder. Pack extra layers and jackets when visiting Chicago.
Now that we have an understanding of the Chicago winds, there are also plenty of kid-friendly activities in Chicago. They can go for a ride on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier, venture out to the Shedd Aquarium, or take a drive through Lake Shore Drive.
Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, is home to beautiful parks like the International Rose Test Garden and the Hoyt Arboretum. Temperatures usually sit in the 50s in Portland with much cooler nights.
Some activities include riding on the MAX Light Rail, exploring the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or riding through the Columbia River Gorge. The Max Light Rail makes for a great experience. It’s like a metro that operates on the street. The line runs every 15 minutes, making getting around town much easier and fun.
Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is a magnificent city to visit in November for its mild weather and beautiful scenery. This Virginia city includes various museums that families can consider visiting, such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Holocaust Museum.
The weather fluctuates a lot in Virginia as well. On some days, the temperature can be up to the mid-70s. Other days could have temperatures in the high 30s. So, prepare for warm and cold weather when visiting Richmond.
Richmond has tons of culture, from food to holiday events. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities in Richmond. They can go for a ride on the Richmond Trolley, visit the Virginia State Capitol, or take a ride through the Shenandoah Valley.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is the largest city in western North Carolina. Most recognize the location because it’s home to the Blue Ridge Mountains. But there’s so much more to experience. This North Carolina city has various world-class museums like the Asheville Art Museum and the Biltmore Estate.
Temperatures are mild. Expect 50 to 60-degree weather here. Families can enjoy a ride on the Asheville Railway, wander around the Western North Carolina Nature Center, or drive through the gorgeous Blue Ridge Parkway.
Moab, Utah
Moab includes gorgeous parks like the Arches National Park and the Canyonlands National Park. The weather is mild here as well. Expect 50-degree comfortable atmospheres.
There are many family-friendly activities in Moab, Utah. They can go for a ride on the Moab monorail, venture out to the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage, or explore the Dead Horse Point State Park.
Adults are taken back by the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage because it was a place that not only raised cattle but produced films.
Many top films used the location as a backdrop. Rio Grande, Warlock, and The Comancheros are a few of them. Many well-known stars have worked there, including James Stewart, Richard Boone, and Henry Fonda.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach includes wonderful beaches like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the First Landing State Park. We have already discussed the weather in Richmond, Virginia. Expect the same finicky weather in Virginia Beach. In fact, Virginia Beach is less than two hours away.
Virginia Beach has a reputation for liveliness. Parties and significant events like bike week make the location a hot spot. However, in November, especially if the weather is on the cooler side, you likely won’t experience this.
Your family may even have the beach to yourselves for a moment. Other enjoyable activities include riding the Virginia Beach Trolley, visiting the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, or taking a scenic drive through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.
Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is a great city to visit in November for its mild to warm weather and stunning beaches. This Hawaiian island is home to exquisite beaches like Waikiki Beach and the North Shore. And with average temperatures in the mid-80s, it’s a perfect place to escape the cold weather and never wants to return home.
There are several family-friendly activities in Oahu. They can go for a ride on the Honolulu Trolley, visit the Hawaii Maritime Center, or drive through the Punchbowl Crater.
Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague is another awesome city to visit in November for its great weather and scenic views. This Virginia city includes various beautiful beaches, such as Chincoteague Beach and the Assateague Island National Seashore. Temperatures could run on the milder side in the 50s or on the cooler side in the 30s.
The highlight of this destination is the Chincoteague Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a huge beautiful place to drive and walk. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some wild horses.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a fabulous city to visit in November for beach time and gorgeous scenery. This Florida city is filled with beautiful beaches like Miami and South Beach. The weather is always beautiful in Miami.
Families can grab an itinerary and board the trolley to see the city’s hot spots. They can also explore the Miami Seaquarium or take a ride through the Everglades National Park.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is an amazing city to visit in November. This Georgia city has world-class parks like Forsyth Park and Daffin Park. And with average temperatures in the mid-60s, it’s a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities without avoiding the heat.
Horse-drawn carriages are a normal thing here. Families can enjoy a fun ride while sightseeing. Since Savannah is a coastal city, there’s always the opportunity to ride on the Savannah Riverboat. Other options include exploring the Owens-Thomas House or taking a picturesque drive through the Isle of Hope.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is an awesome city for those who love to play golf. It is filled with top-notch golf courses like the Indian Wells Golf Resort and the La Quinta Resort. While it does get cold in California, November temperatures range between 50 and 60 degrees.
Families can go for a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, wander around the Palm Springs Art Museum, or drive through the Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Trees are endangered species, making them so sacred in the area. It is illegal to hang from them, touch them, or build too close.
Roanoke, Virginia
Roanoke can be a great city for those who love hiking. They have several wonderful hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Average temperatures run in the mid-50s. Roanoke is a place to visit for off-grid family time.
Roanoke still offers some family-friendly fun. Families can go for a ride on the Roanoke Valley Greenway, roam around the Virginia Museum of Transportation, or ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive to Roanoke is just as beautiful as the city itself!
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas is home to remarkable attractions like the San Antonio Zoo and the River Walk. And with temperature averages in the mid to upper-70s, it’s a perfect place to escape the cold weather back home.
The Zoo is the highlight of San Antonio. Families get to gaze at animals only seen on television in real life. The location features hyenas and tree kangaroos, just to name a few. Other activities include riding on the San Antonio Streetcar, exploring the Witte Museum, or driving through the Texas Hill Country.
Socorro, New Mexico
Socorro is an incredible city to take a trip to in November for its warm temperatures and various attractions. This New Mexico city has several observatories to visit with your family, such as the Magdalena Ridge Observatory. And with average temperatures in the mid-60s, it’s a perfect place to escape the cold weather back home.
Family-friendly activities in Socorro include going for a ride on the Magdalena Riverboat, exploring the New Mexico Museum of Space History, or taking a scenic drive through the Gila National Forest.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a historic city to explore, or someplace to enjoy the outdoors, these are some of the best places to visit in November in the USA with kids.
One thing to notice here is that almost all destinations have a scenic route. Scenic routes are great for seeing unforgettable sights, making the trip more exciting and enjoyable. So, plan your trip and prepare to create lasting memories with your family.
What are your favorite places to visit in November? Let us know in the comments below!