When the season changes from summer to fall, it marks the shoulder season for many popular destinations. This means you have an increased chance of getting a good price on last-minute flight tickets and hotel stays. If you know where to look, you can save a lot on a vacation by simply following the deals and planning around the best prices. If you are interested in planning an impromptu vacation just before fall begins, then we’ve got a few ideas of where to look. Here are our picks for some great last-minute shoulder season vacation destinations.
Iceland
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Iceland tends to be busier during the summer months when the weather is warmer, or when the Aurora Borealis are at their peak in the middle of winter. In the latter half of September, weather will be cool, but not freezing, and the Northern Lights will be starting to show on dark nights. So in addition to lower prices, you will get the best of both worlds. While you may not be guaranteed to see the Lights, your chances are pretty good, and you will definitely get to enjoy the lush wilderness before everything freezes over.
Glacier National Park, Montana
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Once Labor Day (the first Monday in September) passes, attendance starts to drop off for the park. This will give you more of the chance to explore the wilderness without having as many interruptions. September is also when the trees start to change color, lending to the already dramatic landscapes a burst of vibrant colors. This is also a prime time for animal sightings like elk and bears. You’ll want to take warm clothes to deal with cooling temperatures, but for better prices and less crowds, it is well worth it!
Oaxaca City
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After the summer rush, but well before the Day of the Dead on the first day of November, Oaxaca City hits a nice balance of fewer crowds, but still plenty of activities. Local markets will be buzzing with activity and offer handmade crafts and a chance to interact with locals. The Zapotec Ruins just outside of the city provide a look into the city’s history. Many villages also hold festivals during this time to celebrate their patron saints. You may have to deal with a bit of rain, but the hydration brings out the lush greens of the surrounding landscapes for some truly inspiring scenery.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
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This is another destination that slows down quite a bit after Labor Day, but you’ll still get to take advantage of many of the attractions and shops before they close for the winter. Mackinac Island is renowned for its fudge shops, as well as for its carless roads. Rent a bike to ride around the 8.2 mile shoreline bike road, then stop for some hand-crafted fudge treats at one of the local chocolate shops. Local trails will be less traveled this time of year, so you’ll get a better chance to appreciate the island’s natural beauty, just as the leaves start to change.
Sicily, Italy
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While the summer tourists depart after Ferragosto(a holiday in mid-August), this is also harvest season for vineyards and olive groves. Many local farms will be putting on special events and food festivals to celebrate the harvest, offering you a great chance to sample some amazing treats fresh from the source. Beaches will also be less crowded, while the waters will still be warm and the sun a little more forgiving. Check to see what local festivals are happening during your stay, as there is always something going on!
Croatia
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Croatia is a majestic city that will make you feel like you’ve walked straight into a medieval painting, with its classic architecture, stunning coastlines, and lush wilderness. Like Sicily, they celebrate their harvest season in September, so you can expect festivals and events to be going on. Cruise crowds will have faded away, so this is the perfect time to explore the ancient city streets and buildings without too much distraction. As temperatures are starting to fall during this time, you’ll want to bring a light jacket for those cooler nights!
