🍂 5 Cities You Need to Visit in the Fall as an International Student in the U.S.
Fall in the United States is a special season. The air gets crisp, the leaves turn fiery red and orange, and the whole country feels cozy with pumpkin spice, football games, and seasonal festivals. For international students, it’s also the best time to travel as you get cooler weather, beautiful scenery, and plenty of cultural events.
Here are five cities to visit in the fall, with things to do, how long to stay, and a financial breakdown.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
Why visit in the fall? Boston is a classic New England city, and the fall foliage here is world-famous. With its mix of history, college-town energy, and seasonal charm, it’s the perfect destination.
Activities:
Walk the Freedom Trail and explore U.S. history.
Visit Boston Common and the Public Garden to see colorful foliage.
Take a day trip to Harvard University or MIT in nearby Cambridge.
Time needed: 3–4 days
Cost breakdown (3 days):
Flights: $150–$250 (East Coast domestic)
Accommodation: $120–$180 (budget hostel/shared Airbnb)
Food: $90–$120
Transport & activities: $40–$60
💰 Approx. total: $400–$600
2. New York City, New York
Why visit in the fall? The city that never sleeps gets even more vibrant during fall with cultural festivals, fashion shows, and the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.
Activities:
Stroll through Central Park, especially the Mall and Bow Bridge, to see fall leaves.
Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art or MoMA for indoor days.
Grab pumpkin-flavored treats from local cafés.
If you’re around late November, experience the Thanksgiving Parade.
Time needed: 4–5 days
Cost breakdown (4 days):
Flights: $150–$300 (domestic)
Accommodation: $200–$350 (hostel/affordable hotel)
Food: $120–$180 (cheap eats, food trucks)
Transport & activities: $80–$120 (metro pass + attractions)
💰 Approx. total: $600–$900
3. Chicago, Illinois
Why visit? Crisp air, lakefront views, and vibrant neighborhoods make fall one of the best times for Chicago.
Activities:
Visit Millennium Park to see “The Bean” surrounded by fall foliage.
Explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Hyde Park.
Take an architecture boat tour (runs until late fall).
Warm up with deep-dish pizza after a windy walk.
Time needed: 3–4 days
Cost breakdown (3 days):
Flights: $150–$250
Accommodation: $120–$180
Food: $90–$120
Transport & activities: $60–$100
💰 Approx. total: $450–$650
4. Asheville, North Carolina
Why visit in the fall? Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the most beautiful fall foliage destinations in the U.S. Perfect for students who love the outdoors.
Activities:
Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views.
Hike to Craggy Gardens or Looking Glass Rock.
Explore the quirky downtown filled with art galleries and coffee shops.
Visit the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest private home.
Time needed: 2–3 days
Cost breakdown (2–3 days):
Flights: $100–$200 (or road trip if nearby)
Accommodation: $80–$150 (shared Airbnb/cabin)
Food: $60–$90
Transport & activities: $60–$80 (car rental, gas, parkway stops)
💰 Approx. total: $300–$500
5. San Francisco, California
Why visit in the fall? Surprisingly, fall is one of the best times to visit San Francisco because the weather is warmer and clearer than in summer, with fewer tourists.
Activities:
Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Explore Golden Gate Park and enjoy the Japanese Tea Garden.
Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island.
Visit nearby wine country (Napa/Sonoma) for harvest season.
Time needed: 3–4 days
Cost breakdown (3 days):
Flights: $200–$350
Accommodation: $180–$250 (shared stay/hostel)
Food: $100–$150
Transport & activities: $80–$120 (Muni pass + attractions)
💰 Approx. total: $500–$800
✈️ Final Tips for International Students
Book flights early for better prices.
Travel with friends to split stays and car rentals.
Always check for student discounts at museums, buses, and trains.
👉 These trips aren’t just about sightseeing, they’re about experiencing American culture in its coziest season.
