Since you're willing to drive you could try off season in Niagara Falls. Admire the fall colours. Drive there along Highway 20 through farm country. Get yourself a nice room at off season rates. Take yourself to dinner. They have 3 agencies, two owned by the same guy. The talent isn't what it is here, but the prices are better. There's also the Sundowner.
It'll be quiet in the off season, but you might be better off than driving to a rust belt city in the fall.
Plus there are the Casinos, and well, the Falls.
Though if you go you MUST stop at the Flying Saucer for a cheap breakfast.