Oktoberfest doesn't actually begin in October, despite what its name implies. However, if you travel to Munich in early October, you can catch the end of this centuries-old festival. Oktoberfest is among the world's largest fairs, and while the focus is on beer, drinking is far from being the only activity at the festival. The daytime atmosphere is suitable for families, with German food, fair rides and celebrations of traditional Bavarian culture. If your vacation extends beyond the festival, Munich has many other sights worth seeing. The extensive farmers market, Viktualienmarkt, is a great fall destination, as many fruits and vegetables are harvested this time of year. Also visit Munich's historical main square, Marienplatz, or hike in the mountains outside the city for lovely, fall foliage-dominated views.
October is a great month for leaf peeping. The reds, oranges, yellows and browns take over the greens, canvassing mountains with color. New Hampshire's White Mountain region accommodates fall tourists very well. Travel through either Franconia or Crawford Notch for scenic views and tourist activities. In Crawford Notch, ride the Conway Scenic Railroad for great foliage views. If you have children, make a stop at Story Land, a fairytale-themed amusement park open until mid-October. In Franconia Notch State Park, travel up the Cannon Mountain Tramway, or hike around the many scenic spots in the area -- Flume Gorge and Echo Lake, the site of the now-gone Old Man of the Mountain. This area also houses the Lost River Gorge and Polar Caves, two parks where you can squeeze through small caves and enjoy wildlife, plus the Cog Railway and Clark's Trading Post, a family-operated park featuring bears. If New Hampshire isn't for you, Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts and northern New York also produce some brilliant October foliage.
Held yearly at the start of October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta welcomes hot air balloon enthusiasts from all over the world. Admission is inexpensive -- $6 for anyone over age 12 and free for those ages 12 and under, with parking costs of $10 per car, at 2010's fiesta -- and it's an event that both families and individuals can enjoy. The city of Albuquerque has an arid climate and is typically much warmer and drier than the Northern states during October. If you're not quite ready for fall's chill, you might enjoy this warmer destination.
