10 Under-the-Radar Places to Get an Early Start on Fall

Here comes fall and while some travelers are no doubt lamenting the end of summer there are many reasons to be excited about autumn's arrival, including seemingly endless deals on travel with the kids back in school and demand dropping. If you're looking to take advantage but in need of a bit of inspiration, consider kicking off shoulder season in one of these under-the-radar destinations.

It's easy to overlook Oregon's scenic central coast but the region's charming seaside towns such as Lincoln City aren't just beautiful in early fall, they're also on sale. New data from travel site Vrbo shows that vacation rentals in Lincoln City are 25 percent less per night this shoulder season compared to summer's peak season ($263 versus $349). Fun fall events here include the town's ongoing signature treasure hunting event Finders Keepers and the upcoming Fall Kite Festival on the beach at the D River State Recreation Site (October 5-6).

Head to Vermont's Green Mountains this September and unpack at a charming inn or cottage in Manchester. Budget-friendly things to do here include strolling the town's scenic parks, hiking nearby Equinox Mountain and Lye Brook Falls and exploring unique museums such as the American Museum of Fly Fishing and the Museum of the Creative Process. Marquee events include the old fashioned Peru Fair in historic Peru Village on September 28 featuring a pig roast, live music, craft vendors and more.

The Rocky Mountain resort town of Whitefish is another bargain destination this shoulder season with the average vacation rental being 22 percent cheaper compared to peak season, according to Vrbo. Whitefish isn't just for passionate explorers and outdoor enthusiasts though. This dog-friendly town is home to everything you need to enjoy a relaxing fall getaway, including calming spas, stellar restaurants, unique art galleries and an array of indoor activities if the temperatures drop too far below your comfort level.

Follow the kids back to school this fall in Boulder, home to the University of Colorado. In addition to being in close proximity to Denver as well as remarkable nature and viewpoints such as the Flatirons and Flagstaff Mountain, visitors to Boulder can wine, dine and shop to their heart's content at the Pearl Street Mall downtown. You also won't want to miss the 32nd annual Boulder Fall Fest September 13-15 featuring tons of live music, beer, children's activities and handmade markets.

Several hundred miles southwest of Boulder is where you'll find Durango. Many visitors here opt for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of riding the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the canyons of southwest Colorado's San Juan National Forest. Downtown, you'll discover loads of history in addition to fascinating museums and art galleries and tasty cafes and eateries. The Downtown Hot Air Balloon Glow on October 18 is one of several exciting festivals and events visitors can participate in this fall.

Saranac Lake celebrates fall like few other Northeast destinations, kicking things off with the Northern Current Music Festival Labor Day weekend and keeping the party going as the temperatures start to drop and the leaves begin to change colors. There are lots to see and do both indoors and out, whether you're hiking the Saranac Lake 6ers, paddleboarding one of the nearby lakes or drinking and dining to live music downtown.

Frederick is the perfect place to get in the fall spirit this September. Located less than an hour from Washington, D.C., this inviting locale features stunning mountain views, a booming craft beer scene and endless history which is on display in its Civil War-era buildings and nearby battlefields. Visitors can also take part in entertaining fall festivals and even book a ghost tour of Maryland's most haunted city.

This September marks the 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and travelers seeking to do a bit of reflection in remembrance of those who perished will want to escape to Pennsylvania's Somerset County. Visit the Flight 93 National Memorial located at the crash site of United Airlines Flight 93. The memorial commemorates the brave actions of the 40 passengers and crew who thwarted the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The National Park Service along with families of Flight 93 will hold a special observance on September 11 but the memorial is open daily. This expansive county is also home to a slew of quaint small towns like Somerset, Jennerstown and Meyersdale, among others.

Wine lovers and foodies can't go wrong in Healdsburg this fall. This charming small town in California's Wine Country will not only win over your taste buds with world-class vino and mouthwatering farm-to-table dishes such as crispy duck leg confit from Barndiva but your eyeballs will also thank you as the region boasts some of the most beautiful scenery on the West Coast.

Situated between Cincinnati and Dayton, Lebanon is easily overlooked but worthy of your attention as the seasons begin to change. The Golden Lamb, which is Ohio's oldest continually operating hotel and restaurant, is the star attraction here but there's plenty more charm to discover, from the Harmon Museum & Art Gallery to the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, which offers historic train rides. Plan your visit for the last weekend in September and you can experience the 37th annual Country Applefest featuring two days of homemade crafts, food and entertainment.