Miami – Mark's Travel Journal

10 Best Places to Visit in November in the USA

A map, a notebook, a camera, and a compass.

November is a great time to explore the USA. Besides fewer crowds and possible discounts, you can also experience snow in some parts and warm weather in others. Not to mention that the Christmas spirit is in the air as preparations for December are underway. And even if almost all the leaves have fallen from the trees, the colors of nature are still vivid. There are still lots of activities that can be done outdoors, by yourself or with the family. As a matter of fact, there are enough great destinations that can satisfy any type of traveler. So without further ado, here are the best places to visit in November in the USA.

Salem, Massachusetts

With Halloween having just passed, one of the best places to visit in November in the USA is Salem. The well-known small town in Massachusetts is a popular tourist destination in October, but it is preferable to visit in November. The crowds are fewer, and the main attractions are still open. The Salem Witch Museum, for example, is a great place to visit and learn about the history revolving around the famous witch trials. In addition, you may visit the House of Seven Gables, the Witch House, or the Witch Dungeon Museum or go on a ghost tour.

San Francisco, California

With warm and sunny days and pleasantly cool afternoons, fall is the perfect season to visit San Francisco. And the best part is that you won’t see as many tourists roaming the streets as you would during peak season. Therefore, you can enjoy all the fun attractions that the city has to offer in peace. First, you can go to Alcatraz Island and see how the famous jail treated its inmates. Then, you can rent a bike and cycle on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. For an extra treat, you can take a cruise around San Francisco and admire the humpback whales in their natural habitat. Even if November marks the end of the whale season, you can still be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants.

Los Angeles, California

If you plan to visit San Francisco this fall, it’s also a good time for a trip to LA. The City of Angels is very close, about 1.5 to 2 hours away, and packed with interesting sights. Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and the famous Hollywood are just a few of them. You can also visit the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, or the Academy Museum. For outdoor fun, you can take a stroll through the South Coast Botanic Garden, have a picnic at the beautiful Dume State Beach, or climb the 282 steps that take you to the top of Baldwin Hills. Also, you shouldn’t miss one of the best events in LA that start right in November, called Enchanted: Forest of Light. This event is held at the Descanso Gardens and features a beautiful display of art and lighting.

A view of a beach in Los Angeles. — Los Angeles is one of the best places to visit in November in the USA, not just for Hollywood but also for the lovely beaches and mild weather.

Kauai, Hawaii

If you want to postpone the coming of the cold season, you can find a tropical refuge in Hawaii. Kauai is an underrated jewel of the Hawaiian Islands, considered more beautiful than Maui or the Big Island. On the Garden Island, as it is also known, you can find amazing beaches, spectacular cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and lush forests. If you want to explore the island and its surroundings, you can go hiking, surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. And, in addition to admiring the beautiful landscape, there are other fun things to do on the island, like tasting the local cuisine. On your plate, you will find a unique blend of Western, Thai, Filipino, and Japanese influences that will delight your taste buds.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

In your pursuit of an endless summer, you can’t miss visiting one of the best places to visit in November in the USA, San Juan, Puerto Rico. The capital city of San Juan is one of the best exotic destinations in the Caribbean, if not in the world. Besides the beautiful beaches and clear waters, San Juan will amaze you with its cultural and historical settings. It’s a city full of old structures of Spanish colonial architecture that are vibrating with today’s modern energy. Only here can you book a room in a hotel housed in a 16th or 17th-century structure. And if you are a party goer that would enjoy a bit of nightlife, don’t worry. There is enough entertainment for you in the Santurce neighborhood, the modern cultural center of San Juan.

Miami, Florida

The Magic City is a popular destination for travelers that want to escape the cold temperatures. The weather is nice, at around 77°F, the city is less busy, and the prices drop. So, it’s the perfect time to escape for a relaxing weekend at the beach. If you want to stay active, go on a walk through the city streets and admire the Wynwood Walls. You will be able to see amazing colorful murals made by artists from around the globe. If you plan to explore Miami with friends, there is a lot of entertainment for groups taking place during November. The Miami Book Fair, the Miami Live Arts Month, or the Jazz Festival, for instance.

View of one of the best places to visit in November in the USA, Miami. — Miami is a lively and vibrant city that makes a great destination for a fall vacation.

New York City, New York

Even if the Big Apple is a great tourist destination all year round, November is the perfect time to visit. There is still enough time to enjoy the autumn foliage in the beautiful city parks, just before the hectic Christmas season starts. Moreover, there are fewer crowds in the city, making it easier to get around and see the main attractions. And there is quite a lot to see and do in New York as a tourist. For instance, if you want to have a fun Thanksgiving weekend in this city, don’t miss the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s a spectacular display of music, color, and giant floating balloons. For a more quiet day, take a ferry around the Statue of Liberty or admire the view from the Empire State Building. If it gets too chilly, visit one of the many museums or go on a shopping spree.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The Crescent City is the birthplace of jazz music, with a charming festive spirit and lots of street parties. In addition, we just have to mention the unique local cuisine that has French, African, and American influences. And to top it all, the ideal time to visit this musical city is right in November. Aside from the pleasant weather and fewer tourists, the prices are lower for transportation and accommodation. Also, the many festivals and events in the city are a delight for any visitor. The International Wine Awards, the Po-Boy sandwich festival, the annual Turkey Day Race, or the Congo Square Rhythms Festival are just a few examples.

Phoenix, Arizona

November is the best time to visit Phoenix if you want to avoid the summer heat. Temperatures are dropping to an average of 67°F, which makes it easier to enjoy the outdoors. Hiking in the mountains, strolling through local parks, or visiting outdoor museums are much more enjoyable. And, of course, the Grand Canyon, the region’s most renowned natural wonder. As indoor activities, the Phoenix Art Museum and the Heard Museum are excellent places to visit and learn about local culture and history. Also, if you want to have a memorable family trip with the kids, visit the Children’s Museum, the local Zoo, or the Science Center. As you can see, Phoenix has a lot of great places that are worth visiting in November.

Sunset in Arizona. — Phoenix is not all about deserts and cactuses, but a city that can offer a lot of fun outdoor activities for all its tourists.

Seattle, Washington

While November is one of the rainiest months, hotel discounts make Emerald City a great place to visit currently. You can stay dry by visiting one of the many museums and galleries or by going shopping in Pike Place Market. At the same time, you can take part in the Northwest Chocolate Festival, the Earshot Jazz Festival, or the Holiday Wine Fest. And if you want to get warm and energized while in Seattle, you can go on a coffee tour around the city. You can find a coffee shop at every corner, so you can just grab a book and spend a relaxing day in a cozy cafe.

In conclusion

There are a lot of great places that are worth visiting this fall. As you can see, we can name at least 10. So, if you are wondering where to go on your next trip, check out our list of best places to visit in November in the USA. We can guarantee that you will enjoy every one of them.

Florida Road Trips for Families with Kids – What Not to Miss?

Featured9 Comments

Car packed for Florida road trips for families with kids

The Sunshine State is home to various theme parks, gorgeous beaches, and citrus orchards which makes it a paradise for a family vacation. And while Florida road trips for families with kids will create unforgettable memories no matter where you go, everyone will enjoy it even more if you plan the trip properly. Still, it’s never easy to organize a vacation for a big family, especially for members with a significant age difference. Hence, drafting a plan for a fun road trip is usually challenging. However, you are in luck because it is not the case when it comes to Alligator State. From a variety of fantastic destinations, we will recommend the ones you should not miss!

Making the best route

When it comes to family vacations, you need to include everyone in the process of planning because it’s all about creating happy memories with your kids. Exploring the options in advance will help you map the route and estimate the travel expenses. Still, adding everyone’s desired destination on the list while compromising is the only guaranteed way for a successful vacation.

Once you experience the glorious weather and learn that there is no income tax in Sunshine State, you will realize why Florida is one of the most popular moving destinations for young families. According to moving professionals Miami Movers for Less, most of their clients have come here searching for a better quality of life.

Castle from the Walt Disney World in Orlando — Walt Disney World is one of the most popular family trip destinations in the US

The fun in Orlando

There is a world-famous tourist attraction in Orlando no one should miss – the Walt Disney World. Now, you might think that’s just for kids but remember, we were all kids once. Perhaps seeing heroes that shaped our childhoods will remind you of some lovely memories while your children enjoy countless fun activities.

Still, that’s not all Orlando has to offer. The city is filled with entertainment complexes, from Kennedy Space Centre to SeaWorld to ICON park. And if your children are more into magic than princes and princesses, taking them to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studio Park might be just the right thing.

Kids in the aquarium at SeaWorld — Visiting SeaWorld with your kids is an unforgettable experience

Florida Keys exotic vacation

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, in the southernmost parts of the US, stretches the magnificent Florida Keys. It is a tropical paradise that provides an exotic experience for tourists. And even though there are a lot of amazing beaches in the Aligator State, what can compete with Florida Keys beaches where you can swim with the dolphins? The area is sustaining on tourism, fishing, and eco-tourism. Still, even though it’s close to Miami, it’s one of the few remaining places without the light-polluted sky.

Sunset in the Florida Keys — If your family is into snorkeling and scuba diving, Florida Keys should be on your checklist

Frost Science in Miami Park district

Frost Science Museum is a must-see location on Florida road trips for families with kids. It’s impossible not to develop a love for exploring and science after visiting this complex that features a planetarium, aquarium, science laboratories, and rotating exhibitions. And the best part of this museum is, everything is interactive. There are no “don’t touch” signs, which can be a blessing for inquisitive kids.

Museum anatomy exhibition — Family road trips for families with kids can be fun and educational at the same time if they include museum visits

Orange picking in southern Florida

There is nothing like eating the fruit you’ve picked by yourself. Add some family fun into the mix, and you’ll make great memories. If southern Florida is on your trip itinerary, you can’t miss seeing the ocean of orange orchards spreading through the scenery. But when you decide to visit, plan your trip in the first part of the year. Even though orange picking is available all year round, the season is particularly blooming between December and May.

Girl picking oranges from a tree — Tasting freshly picked fruit gives us particular pleasure, especially if you did it yourself

The fun in Florida’s West Coast

When experiencing Florida’s west coast locations, Tampa is the place to see. Known for its rich historical sites, museums, amusement parks, and zoos, Tampa also has some of the best beaches in the US. Naturally, the Busch Gardens is something no one will skip visiting while here. Because where else can we have first-class African-themed family entertainment without having to travel to another continent? Safari trips, water rides, and rollercoasters are some of the activities your family can enjoy. But, adding some education to the fun time can benefit your kids a lot. Tampa has excellent museums worth the visit, like the Glazer Children’s Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Henry B. Plant Museum, and Tampa Bay History Center.

Rollercoaster in Tampa amusement park — Tampa is the most exotic and exciting place on Florida’s west coast

Tour along Crystal River and Kings Bay

For nature-loving families, there is no greater experience than visiting Crystal River amenities. Picnicking in the Fort Island Gulf Beach, swimming with manatees, hiking through the Wildlife refuge, exploring Archaeological State Park, and kayaking on Kings Bay… The possibilities are endless. This place is a natureal gem, and if the road takes you near Miami, you mustn’t miss it.

Family kayaking in Crystal River — Crystal River is famous for its water sport activities

Traveling is half the fun!

In today’s modern age of technology, making routes, maps and finding things we’re looking for is easy. Still, being surrounded by all that pressure of modernization can be a burden sometimes. Many would argue that old-fashioned vacations are the best because that’s how you learn to get around. Engaging kids in finding the routes on paper maps could make the trip a more fun experience. But also, such interactive activities will be teaching your kids resourcefulness through gaining new skills.

Florida road trips for families with kids should, first of all, be fun. Therefore, while traveling, don’t hold onto schedule and itineraries too much! It’s essential to enjoy the coincidental magical instances on your way. Whether they are cute little diners along the way or the best sunset scenery, stop and learn to seize the moment. Such little detours could make the vacation memorable by creating valuable family moments. As R.W. Emerson wisely said, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”

Tips for exploring Miami with friends

February 25, 2020July 1, 2021markstraveljournal18 Comments

Sunset overlooking Miami, when exploring Miami with friends

Traveling to Miami is a dream come true – especially if you’re visiting as a group. However, many people are confused with all of the things Miami has to offer, so they don’t experience its full potential. When exploring Miami with friends, you need to be ready and find out everything you can do here before you arrive. This way your group won’t waste time; instead, you’ll have fun until the moment you have to leave. That’s why we created a simple guide on exploring Miami with friends and all the must-see things in this amazing city. Enjoy!

Main tips on exploring Miami with friends – how to make things more fun!

Here are some main tips on how to make your trip to Miami smooth and easy and use your time the best way possible:

plan your trip ahead –being a ‘nerd’ of your group can be very useful in this situation. Make sure you plan your trip in advance, so you don’t waste time searching for accommodation, things to do and see, etc. However, remember that sticking to a plan is not always possible, but let yourself have some fun and allow the city to surprise you!
be realistic – think about how many days you’re about to spend in Miami. Therefore, try to be realistic about how many things you can do and see. Doing everything in a hurry and trying to see more than it’s possible will not make this experience enjoyable and fun.
check the weather – depending on where you and your friends are coming from, Miami weather can come as a surprise – it’s mostly warm, all year long. Even in winter, you can expect dry and pleasant weather – around 17 – 20 degrees C. That’s why you should check the weather forecast and pack your clothes accordingly – see all the things you should never travel without, too.
get an Airbnb – there are many amazing hotels in Miami, and some of them include America’s most famous hotel rooms. However, staying at an Airbnb in Miami can be more affordable and fun. As you’re exploring Miami with friends, renting an apartment will definitely be cheaper, and you can experience Miami more like a local!

Things to do when exploring Miami with friends

Exploring this city is more fun with friends. Whether you’re visiting from another country, or you just moved here and want to welcome your friends, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you organize some fun activities after moving to FL, so your friends can see you moved to an amazing city that has a lot to offer for everybody. Let’s go through all the amazing experiences you can have with your friends in this great city!

Do some sightseeing

Sightseeing doesn’t have to be tiring and boring – Miami has amazing hop-on hop-off tour buses that will make this visit more fun. It’s great because it gives you a flexible sightseeing tour of the city, which you can organize the way you want it. Also, there is a Miami Duck Boat Tour, which is a fun way to see the city and its main landmarks.

Exploring Miami with friends – have another point of view

Another amazing way to see the city is by Jet Boat Miami –a unique experience that is both informative and fun. It’s a great way to have fun with your friends on the ocean, and also get some information about the city’s famous landmarks.

Have a beach day

Miami Beach to visit when exploring Miami with friends

Miami is famous for its sunny weather and amazing beaches – so why not spend a day on one of the world’s most famous beaches? South beach is the perfect place to see everything you’ve imagined about Miami – skillful surfers, celebrities sunbathing, shopping and swimming.

Want some amazing Instagram pics – head to the Art Deco District and Wynwood Walls

The Art Deco District is a great place if you enjoy colorful architectural historic places. It includes a lot of amazing buildings with many hotels, restaurants, and bars. A tour through this part of the city can be a great way to take some amazing photos with your friends, so be sure to check it out. Also, this area is amazing during the night, too, since most of the buildings have colorful lights which create a very interesting atmosphere.

Another place popular among photos on Instagram is, of course, Wynwood Walls. The place is full of colorful murals that really make the place unique. It’s free to visit, but you can also consider taking a tour of the place, which will give you more information about the location.

Spend a day in Little Havana

La Pequena Habana is a part of the city where you can find some authentic shops, cafes, and restaurants. it’s a perfect place to enjoy live music with amazing cocktails, and do some shopping, too!

Go clubbing

Miami is famous for its nightlife, and there are many bars and clubs that can prove that. However, one of the most popular locations is definitely E11EVEN – the club that is open 24/7. This place provides different styles of nightlife, and the best part is that you can visit it whenever you want. That’s why you should definitely visit a club like this when exploring Miami with friends.

Enjoy!

No matter how many plans you make, when you go exploring Miami with friends, the most important thing is to enjoy. Bringing home some nice memories from travel means a lot, so be sure to have a good time. Group travels require patience and flexibility, so be open about each other’s wishes and take turns in deciding where to go. It’s okay to have different interests, and absolutely fine to also have some alone time. Have a great time in Miami!