Summer is traditionally travel time, but if you’re looking for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, fall is also an excellent time to get out and explore. Many areas in the U.S. truly shine in autumn, and they welcome visitors with open arms.

Swipe through to learn about 7 U.S. destinations you should visit this fall.

New York City

New York can be stiflingly warm in the summer, not to mention completely overrun with tourists. But the fall season is lovely. It’s often still warm enough that jackets aren’t required, and it’s way less crowded. Be sure to spend time in Central Park to see the changing leaves, and the High Line is a great scenic spot, as well.

Photography: SmallTownsBigCity | US Travel & Lifestyle

Santa Barbara, California

This beach town largely clears out once summer’s over, and hotel prices plummet. Furthermore, the fog that is often present during the high season is not so prevalent come autumn, and the days remain warm. Fall is a time of fun festivals on this Central Coast city, so plan on having a good time.

Photography: Pinterest/highlylikelyooo.com

Salt Lake City

Utah’s capital city and the surrounding areas typically become a madhouse once ski season kicks in. But in the fall, you’ll experience refreshing temperatures and breathtaking leaf viewing. You might want to check out the Utah State Fair and enjoy German food and exuberant music at the region’s Oktoberfest celebration.

Photography: Pinterest/Jasmine Alley

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Another city that draws overwhelming numbers of visitors both during summer and winter, Santa Fe is a terrific spot to visit in autumn. The hatch chili season is in full swing, and you’ll be able to taste this local specialty at dozens of top-notch restaurants. Hike the Aspen Vista vista trail to see glorious fall color.

Photography: Pinterest/Select Registry

San Antonio, Texas

When summer’s brutal heat has moved on, fall is a lovely time to visit the magnificent city of San Antonio. Check out the Alamo and then enjoy chips and salsa at an outdoor table along the famous Riverwalk. Don’t miss the big Day of the Dead celebration, and there are fall food festivals too.

Savannah, Georgia

Some say this charming coastal town is among America’s most haunted, and what better time to visit than during the Halloween season? As summer’s heat melts away, enjoy pleasant, quiet strolls in the verdant historic district or along the wharf. Savannah is famous for its excellent restaurants, too, so hit a few of those during your visit.

Photography: Pinterest/Travel Off Path

Anchorage, Alaska

Many Alaskan towns go into hibernation when summer’s over, but Anchorage remains a lively destination even after school starts back up. Pick berries on Flattop Mountain. Hop on the Alaska Railroad and enjoy views of fall foliage out the window. If you’re lucky, come nightfall, you may spy the northern lights.