We’ve officially said our goodbyes to summer and it’s time to welcome the new season with open arms. With the arrival of fall comes back-to-school, event-packed days and less flexible schedules. 

But autumn also brings some of the nicest weather of the year to inspire you to get out and enjoy life. Banish any lingering end-of-summer blues by recognizing that there’s still plenty of time to hit the open road before the even-busier winter holiday season sets in. 

The West Coast offers a practically inexhaustible variety of treats, temperatures and terrains. Designate a chore-free weekend to explore local fairs and fests, or hop on a plane for a complete change of scenery. You can opt to bake in the desert sun, find shelter and shade beneath redwoods, or chill — literally! — while chasing the Northern lights. Many of the journeys will take you to America’s most spectacular national parks. Here is the most popular national park in every state.

24/7 Wall St. has compiled a list of things to do in 20 destinations along the western seaboard from California to Alaska by using sources such as the National Park Service. Whether your personal style is active or laid back, there’s likely something here to  pique your curiosity and stimulate your interest. Fall is spectacular on the East Coast as well. Here are the best weekend trips on the East Coast this fall.

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