Top five bargain destinations for fall 2011

— -- The leaves aren't the only things dropping this time of year. In a bid to stay busy during the lull between summer vacation and the holidays, many destinations and travel providers are willing to cut travelers a break. And that translates to deep discounts on air-and-hotel packages, hotel stays, and plenty of free and cheap activities when you arrive. In a sea of options competing for fewer fall travelers, these five destinations really shine.

I've monitored trends, industry news, and sale patterns to point you in the direction of places that offer the best bargains for the coming season. Below you'll find examples of deals presently available for fall trips. Like all deals, these are sure to expire; however, a little research on your part can yield similar results when you're ready to book.

New York City

The stars—or at least the discounts—are aligning this fall to make New York City an unusually good bargain for this time of year. Theater price breaks, usually a sign of winter, are arriving early. And sale hotel rates from a variety of sources help keep the biggest New York City visitor expenses in check.

Good news for theater buffs looking for entertainment without excessive ticket price drama. Broadway Week offers two-for-one tickets from September 18 to 30 and includes more than a dozen shows, among them Billy Elliott, Jersey Boys, and Wicked. From September 26 through October 9, Off Broadway Week offers the same two-for-one pricing for more than 25 shows, including Avenue Q and Blue Man Group. Tickets for both promotional periods are already on sale, so you'll need to book soon for the best availability.

Expedia is featuring rooms at the Pod Hotel New York from $95 per night on select dates. At the Aloft Hotel Brooklyn, the second night is 40% off when you arrive Thursday through Sunday for stays through the end of the year. Hotels.com includes New York City in its fall hotel sale, with discounted rates such as $139 per night at Condor Hotel.

This fall also marks the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks and the opening of the 9/11 Memorial. Entry to the memorial is free, but advance reservations are required.

Gunnison-Crested Butte

There's gold in them thar hills. Not to mention vivid scarlets and deep oranges. Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley in Colorado, home to the country's largest aspen grove, delivers dazzling fall foliage without the extortionate lodging prices. So get ready to enjoy the autumn splendor on mountain drives, hiking trails, or from the seat of a mountain bike or on horseback.

To celebrate the September and early October peak of fall color, Gunnison County is promoting September Splendor in the Rockies, a winning combination of activities and discounts for early fall stays. The packed calendar of events includes concerts, harvest festivals, and art fairs. And unlike some fall foliage destinations, autumn lodging prices in Gunnison-Crested Butte come at a discount, not a premium. For instance, throughout September stays at the dozens of Crested Butte Mountain Resort properties are 20% off; while the fourth night is free during September and October at Peak Property Management properties.

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