Planning a Fall Trip? These 5 U.S. Cities Could Ruin It
A strong summer travel season, bolstered by World Cup matches in major US cities, winds down as fall approaches. By now, you’ve read the “best-of” lists and probably heard about the trending TikTok spots from your kids or grandkids. But what cities should you avoid as you plan your fall travel?
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, recently topped a list compiled by Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers of the US capitals “most likely to ruin your vacation.”
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The New York-based law firm analyzed multiple factors on a weighted scale, including:
- Flight cancellation rates
- Personal safety records
- Theft rates
- Air quality
- Fatal road incidents
- Fatal hit-and-runs
- Traffic conditions
- Road quality
- EV charging availability
The law firm scored each state capital on a “disruption” scale to come up with an eye-opening list that included popular cities like Baton Rouge, LA; Raleigh, NC; and Columbia, SC as cities to avoid.
Should you steer clear? Or do these cities have enough to offer that they’re worth the perceived risk?
Harrisburg, PA
With a disruption score of 100, Harrisburg, PA, suffers from poor air quality, fatal incidents exceeding 1,000 per year, and poor safety ratings. On the bright side, the roads weren’t ranked as poorly as other cities on the list.
Reasons to Visit Anyway
With breathtaking mountain views from Susquehanna Valley, Harrisburg is rich in history and culture. If you’re traveling with multiple generations, consider a stop at nearby Hersheypark, ranked in the top 10 of US theme parks for 2026 by USA Today.
Baton Rouge, LA
With a disruption rating of 96 out of 100, Baton Rouge is even more dangerous than Harrisburg when it comes to larceny theft and fatal road incidents. It also has some of the worst quality roads, although the traffic isn’t as bad as some cities on the list.
Reasons to Visit Anyway
In spite of the drawbacks, Baton Rouge exudes culture and southern charm. Spend time in nature, exploring the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center or hiking the trails. Experience sunset over the Mississippi River and then enjoy the downtown nightlife.
Albany, NY
Albany, NY, has a better overall safety rating than Harrisburg or Baton Rouge, but the city may cause more grief than usual for fliers. The average flight cancellation rate is second only to Newark, New Jersey. Although the roads aren’t great, either, the city is very friendly to EV drivers, with more than 6,500 charging ports.
Reasons to Visit Anyway
If you’re thinking of visiting Albany, it might be worth it to venture roughly 3 hours south to New York City, instead. But history and architecture buffs may love Albany for the Schuyler Mansion, the Capitol Building, and the Ten Broeck Mansion, a Federal-style house with formal gardens and views of the Hudson River.
Columbia, South Carolina
Tied with Albany with an overall disruption rating of 83, Columbia, SC, scored poor marks for traffic and road quality. Larceny theft is also a concern, with 1,468 incidents – more than Albany or Harrisburg. You may also expect flight disruptions landing in or leaving the area’s airport, too.
Reasons to Visit Anyway
South Carolina’s capital, Columbia, is often overshadowed by trendy tourist spots like Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach. But Columbia has plenty of appeal, including a riverfront park, art museums, and the lively Soda City Market.
Venture less than a half hour east to Congaree National Park. Seniors 62+ can get a $20 annual or $80 lifetime America the Beautiful Pass for access to all national parks and many other attractions.
Raleigh, North Carolina
With a disruption rating of 79, Raleigh, NC, rounds out the list of five state capitals most likely to ruin your vacation. The air quality is on par with Albany and slightly worse than Columbia, but it’s considered relatively safe compared to Columbia. The roads, however, are the worst out of the top five worst cities, and the traffic is second worst behind Harrisburg.
Reasons to Visit Anyway
In spite of air quality and traffic concerns, Raleigh is consistently ranked by top websites and publications as one of the best places to live or visit, due to its rapid growth and many free museums and attractions. Visit in early fall and you’ll see the vibrant landscaping and giant oak trees just starting to turn for the season.
Protect Yourself on Vacation
Even a carefully thought-out trip can go wrong. Wherever you visit, it’s wise to consider travel insurance to protect yourself.
Read hotel reviews to find a safe neighborhood and always stay aware of your surroundings. Consider driving through major cities at off-peak times to reduce traffic. A quick dinner stop can shave hours off your travel time, overall, if it takes you off the roads during rush hour.
Check your tire pressure and treads before you leave; bad roads can eat up older tires, leading to a blow-out or flat. If you’re driving an EV, map out a trip that includes stops with charging capabilities to eliminate range anxiety.
By taking proper precautions, you can have a stress-free vacation virtually anywhere in the US. When disruptions occur, know who you can call for help or the right steps to take to get your trip back on track.
