Things to Do in United States in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in United States
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Fall foliage peaks in many regions - New England displays spectacular reds and golds, while the Pacific Northwest shows vibrant yellows and oranges through late November
- Shoulder season pricing on accommodations - hotel rates drop 20-40% compared to October peak, especially mid-week bookings outside major cities
- Comfortable hiking weather nationwide - temperatures between 5-22°C (41-72°F) ideal for outdoor activities without summer heat and humidity
- Thanksgiving cultural experience - witness America's biggest holiday with local traditions, parades, and seasonal foods available throughout the month
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather patterns - temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) in single day common, especially in Midwest and Mountain regions
- Limited daylight hours - sunset as early as 4:30pm in northern states affects outdoor activity timing and photography opportunities
- Thanksgiving week crowds and price spikes - November 25-29, 2025 sees flight prices increase 60% and popular destinations become overcrowded
Best Activities in November
Great Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Hiking
November offers the last chance to see autumn colors at lower elevations while avoiding October crowds. Temperatures range 8-18°C (46-64°F), perfect for day hikes. Gatlinburg and surrounding trails show peak color through mid-November, with clearer mountain views due to lower humidity.
California Wine Country Harvest Tours
November is crush season's end in Napa and Sonoma - witness final grape harvesting with crisp 12-20°C (54-68°F) temperatures ideal for vineyard walking. Smaller crowds than September-October, better availability for tastings, and harvest festival atmosphere through early November.
Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Viewing
Late November marks transition to winter ecosystem - elk bugling season continues, bison gather in thermal areas, and wolves become more visible against snow. Temperatures drop to -5 to 8°C (23-46°F) but thermal features remain accessible with fewer tourists.
New York City Cultural Season Launch
November launches Broadway's new season, museum special exhibitions, and holiday preparations. Weather averages 8-15°C (46-59°F) - cool enough for comfortable city walking without summer heat. Lincoln Center, Met Museum, and Broadway shows run full schedules before holiday rushes.
Arizona Desert Hiking and Photography
November brings perfect desert weather - daytime temperatures 15-25°C (59-77°F) ideal for Sedona red rocks, Grand Canyon rim trails, and Saguaro cactus forests. Clear skies 80% of days provide excellent photography conditions without summer's harsh shadows.
Pacific Northwest Storm Season Tours
November storms create dramatic coastlines along Oregon and Washington shores. Temperatures 8-16°C (46-61°F) with 60% chance of rain create moody atmospheres perfect for photography. Whale migration continues through November with gray whales visible from shore.
November Events & Festivals
Thanksgiving Day Parades
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City (November 27, 2025) draws millions of viewers. Arrive by 6am for street viewing spots along the 2.5-mile route from 77th Street to Macy's Herald Square.
Black Friday Shopping Events
America's biggest shopping day (November 28, 2025) features massive discounts nationwide. Major retailers open as early as 5am, outlet malls extend hours, and online sales begin Thanksgiving evening.
Thanksgiving Food Festivals
Throughout November, cities host harvest festivals featuring seasonal American cuisine - cranberry festivals in Wisconsin, turkey celebrations in North Carolina, and harvest markets in farming regions nationwide.