12 Socially Distant Vacation Ideas for Fall 2020

This fall will be much different compared to previous years as travel begins a slow and steady return to normal in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, there are still plenty of possibilities for those eyeing a safe and socially distant vacation this autumn.

Autumn is the perfect time to camp, whether pitching a tent in your backyard or in one of America's iconic national parks or amazing state parks. What's more, travelers can take advantage of free entrance days at national parks on September 26 (National Public Lands Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day).

Vacation rentals offer travelers an excellent opportunity to get away without sacrificing privacy or peace of mind. Villas of Distinction has recently bolstered its domestic portfolio as more Americans seek out the comfort and versatility of a spacious alternative to hotels and resorts.

Most travelers continue to indicate that they feel safest when traveling by personal vehicle. Plus, the ability to work and learn remotely makes it even easier to hit the open road without consequence this fall.

If you're among the many captivated by fall colors, there's no shortage of can't-miss sites to go leaf-peeping this fall, from Shenandoah National Park's mesmerizing Skyline Drive to vibrant Lenox and the Berkshires in western Massachusetts. Where you go is up to you but the color-changing leaves are just another reason to venture out.

Depending on the local COVID-19 travel restrictions and quarantine rules, the fall is a great time to reconnect with friends and family who you can trust when it comes to who've they've come in contact with. Southwest Airlines is offering discounted flights from as low as $49 one-way now through October 22 so there's never been a better time to take a last-minute trip. Staying with friends and family is also a great way to save money on accommodations.

America's scenic hiking and biking trails are at their best when the temperatures begin to cool. Spending time outdoors is also a great way to destress while remaining socially distant.

Consider a peaceful getaway to the beach or a serene lake this autumn. With summer in the rearview, visitors will find plenty of great deals on flights and hotels to coastal destinations or can opt for a body of water within driving distance where they can kayak, fish, canoe, paddleboard and much more.

What better way to celebrate spooky season than in one of America's captivating ghost towns? From coast to coast, the U.S. features a slew of creepy abandoned towns and villages, some of which are even rumored to be haunted.

Grab your mask and head to the pumpkin patch or your local farm to ring in fall with some apple picking, corn mazes and other festive fun. Not only is it a great way to explore while socially distancing but you'll also be helping to support your local economy at a critical time.

While the iconic Oktoberfest celebration in Munich, Germany has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, many communities and breweries around the country are moving ahead with these lively fall events with face mask requirements and social distancing guidelines in place. Cold beer and live music? Yes, please.

One of the silver linings of the coronavirus pandemic is it gives Americans a good reason to explore more of their state outside of their home cities, towns, neighborhoods and favorite local destinations. Oftentimes it's the places closest to home that get overlooked despite the minimal time and energy it takes to experience them.

If leaving home simply isn't an option for you this fall, there are still plenty of ways to satisfy your wanderlust and see the world virtually so long as you have a reliable internet connection. A number of popular attractions are offering virtual travel experiences this fall, from the Eiffel Tower to the Great Wall of China.