Travelling during ‘shoulder season’ (the perfect sweet spot between peak and off-peak) could be the perfect hack, offering several benefits such as lower flight and accommodation costs, fewer crowds and the opportunity to truly connect with the culture.
Pinpointing the best locations to visit during shoulder season, the experts at Journeyscape have shared these dreamy North American holiday destinations.
Travelling on a budget? Experts share 5 perfect North American destinations to visit during shoulder season!
Kerry Manley, Head of Marketing at North America travel specialist Journeyscape comments: “When it comes to making the most of shoulder season travel, North America ticks all the boxes. Canada and the US offer an incredible variety of experiences, and visiting just outside peak times means you get all the beauty, but with fewer crowds, better prices, and a much more relaxed pace.
Whether it’s watching wildlife in Yellowstone or catching the golden hues of autumn in Québec, shoulder season allows you to slow down, soak it all in, and experience destinations like a local, not just a tourist.”
5 must-visit destinations for shoulder season:
- Yellowstone National Park, USA
Shoulder season in Yellowstone National Park occurs in the early spring and late autumn. Visitors can witness the snow melting or starting to dust the landscape again. Wildlife, including bison, elk, and even grizzlies become more visible in the cooler air!
With fewer crowds and mild temperatures, you’ll have a more intimate experience with the nature, as well as better chances of securing a last-minute lodge or campsite!
2. Deep South, USA
The area from Charleston to New Orleans comes alive between March – May, and September – November. Milder temperatures and fewer crowds make the location ideal for leisurely strolls through Spanish moss-draped streets and historic town squares. Festivals during these months also offer authentic food, music, and culture experiences. Iconic attractions like antebellum plantations, blues joints, and coastal beaches are also more relaxed and accessible.
3. Banff & Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada
The Canadian Rockies are stunning all year-round, but visitors can experience a peaceful tour of the landscape’s raw beauty during shoulder season. In late spring, waterfalls surge with snowmelt, trails open, and wildlife emerges. In autumn, golden larches and crisp mountain air enhance the scene. Banff’s streets are quieter during shoulder season, and the dazzling blue lakes make the perfect backdrop for hiking routes like Johnston Canyon or Moraine Lake which have less foot traffic. Bonus: accommodation prices tend to dip too!
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s mild spring and fall weather is ideal for exploring the area’s unique blend of Pueblo culture, Spanish colonial history, and world-class art. The light in spring and autumn casts a golden glow on adobe buildings and mountain backdrops, making it a photographer’s paradise. With fewer tourists, you’ll also have more breathing room in art galleries, open-air markets, and the bustling plaza.
5. Québec City, Canada
During Quebec City’s shoulder seasons, you’ll discover colourful foliage in autumn and blossoms in spring. Old Quebec’s cobbled streets will also be more peaceful, allowing you to sip wine on a serene terrace or visit Montmorency Falls without elbowing your way through crowds.
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