It seems unfair somehow. As soon as kids go back to school, fall kicks in with some of the best weather of the year. But there’s no need to put your wanderlust on hold until there’s a break in the school schedule. You can still head out for some seasonal weekend adventures. Besides the joys of the cooler, crisper days, there are a host of special weekend events scheduled throughout the coming months, and you’ll get to enjoy them without the overcrowding often encountered during the summer months. If you need further encouragement, gas prices are going down.

Whether they’re practically in your own back yard, or a hop, skip and a plane ride away, you’ll find a lot of destinations to choose from along the East Coast. Among the activities on the horizon are old favorites like crafts fairs and food festivals, familiar seasonal events such as hayrides and harvest celebrations, and some off-the-beaten-path adventures like tracking Bigfoot or celebrating school lunch staples.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your weekend days, there’s something special about being out amid the changing leaves. Plus, research shows that regular travel is actually very good for you — here are at least 12 reasons why you should take a vacation for your health. 

The following list has nearly 30 East Coast destinations to pique your urge for footloose fun before winter’s onset. Just be sure to check the weather and listings before you head out, to make certain your travels will be safe and hassle-free. Hurricane Dorian forced thousands to evacuate along the eastern seaboard, and hurricane season lasts through the end of November.

Click here to see the best weekend trips on the east coast this fall