With cooler weather, fewer crowds, and the first signs of fall, September is, in my experience, a perfect time to explore the U.S. – from cozy mountain getaways to lively breweries and farmers’ markets, here are my favorite places to visit during this month..
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
I found September to be an incredible time to visit Acadia National Park – summer crowds had thinned, a peaceful post-Labor Day calm settled in, the weather was still pleasantly mild, and early hints of fall color had begun lighting up the forests, making scenic drives especially stunning.
I flew into Bangor International Airport, drove for 1.5-hours and stayed for four days soaking up the gorgeous scenery which consisted of rugged cliffs, scenic drives, forested trails, and ocean views.
I also caught a stunning sunrise from the summit of Cadillac Mountain, hiked the scenic Jordan Pond Path which had awesome views of the Bubbles (two rounded granite peaks), and cycled the historic Carriage Roads – finishing with a warm popover and blueberry soda at the Jordan Pond House.
Location: NorthEast | Vibe: tranquil and nature-filled | Avg temp: 50°F to 65°F
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the romantic Lindenwood Inn next to the park – I loved the New England feel of the former sea captain’s home, from the shiny oak floors and antique brass details to the hydrangea-and lupin-filled garden and the steaming hot tub under the stars!
2. Charleston, South Carolina
I visited this charming port city in early fall during this month and found the summer heat had finally gone, the gardens and waterfront parks were still gorgeously green, peak-season crowds had disappeared, and the hotel rates were a lot lower too! I also went to the MOJA Arts Festival which was filled with parades and live music!
I flew into Charleston International Airport and spent five sunny days relaxing on the the warm beaches of Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach, exploring the quaint cobbled streets of the Historic District, and admiring the beautiful pastel houses on Rainbow Row and the golden-brown Bradford Cabbage Pancake at the popular Husk Restaurant!
I also loved sampling the tasty okra soup, red rice and benne wafers at the lively Charleston City Market and experiencing all the friendly Southern charm from the stall-holders at the same time!
Location: Southeast coast | Vibe: romantic and elegant | Avg temp: 78°F to 80°F.
My personal highlights…
- Staying in the beautiful 4-star Harbourview Inn – I loved the exceptional boutique styling and my breakfast of fluffy buttermilk pancakes topped with blueberries and a locally roasted Second State Coffee brew on the stunning rooftop terrace each morning!
3. New England
I discovered it was the perfect time for photogenic road trips, comfortable hikes, sampling cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and riding The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s Fall Foliage train taking in the photogenic views.
I flew into Boston Logan and set off on a 14-day New England road trip, driving the scenic Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire—which was stunning in early fall—wandering the charming village of Woodstock in Vermont, hiking the leaf-covered Sunset Ridge Trail on Mount Mansfield, lighthouse-hopping along Maine’s dramatic, rugged coastline and filling up on oatmeal buttermilk pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor.
Location: northeast | Vibe: cozy and nostalgic | Avg temp: 60°F to 75°F
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the unique and Insta-worthy AWOL Stowe – I adored everything about this place from the cozy boutique interiors with chunky knit throws and crackling fireplaces, and the Nordic spa complete with Finnish-style sauna, cedar hot tub, icy cold plunge pool and smoky lapsang souchong tea!
- Visiting Sam Mazza’s Farm Market, which had cute pumpkin patches, corn mazes, steaming donuts, and (my favorite!) the extra-juicy Raspberry and Blueberry Pies.
4. Seattle, Washington
When I visited this hip seaport city in September, the weather was still pleasantly mild and mostly dry, Seattle’s summer crowds had long gone, the city’s accommodation was easier to find (and more affordable!), and I loved seeing clear views of Mount Rainier and also getting to attend the toe-tapping Jackson Street Jazz Walk.
I flew into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and stayed for four days. I gazed at the sweeping city and mountain views from the top of the Space Needle, tasted everything I could at Pike Place Market, explored the colorful glass art at the unique Chihuly Garden and Glass, and sipped on oatmilk Cardamom Latte’s in the quirky neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont.
Location: northwest | Vibe: cool and creative | Avg temp: 55°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
- Staying in the boutique 4-star Hotel Theodore – I loved the locally crafted walnut furniture, the Well+Fit kit with resistance bands and a yoga mat waiting in my room, and the super-handy virtual concierge which tipped me off about a hidden speakeasy nearby!
5. North Cascades National Park, Washington
I visited this unspoiled wilderness in September and found cool weather and vibrant alpine scenery – golden larches and fiery foliage lit up the landscape, making it the perfect time for peaceful hikes, scenic drives along Highway 20, and wildlife spotting in one of the most remote corners of the Pacific Northwest. I especially loved that the summer crowds had vanished too!
I flew into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, drove 2.5 hours northeast, and turned it into a 4-day escape—cruising along the scenic North Cascades Highway and stopping to admire the brilliant turquoise waters of Diablo Lake which was set against rugged alpine peaks.
I also hiked part of the Maple Pass Loop, where I soaked in breathtaking fall foliage and sweeping mountain views, and even spotted mountain goats, and mule deer (black bears were in the area too, though I was relieved not to meet one!).
Warning: The North Cascades Highway usually closes for the winter in November, but early snow can affect the road and trail accessibility as early as late September or early October.
Location: northwest | Vibe: serene and majestic | Avg temp: 50°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at a new Insta-worthy holiday home – I liked the pet-friendly touches like the welcome dog treats and blanket, the huge floor-to-ceiling windows framing the glacier views, and waking up to the gentle sound of meltwater streams outside!
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico
I took a September break in New Mexico’s unique capital and found warm but comfortable weather, fewer crowds, great deals on accommodation, and golden cottonwoods which had started to glow along the trails. The refreshing mountain air made wandering the historic adobe streets and art galleries especially enjoyable.
I especially loved getting to join in the awesome Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, which celebrated local culture with parades, music, and traditional dances. Locals told me that earlier in the month a giant effigy of gloom was spectacularly set ablaze in the ‘Burning of Zozobra‘ too.
I flew into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), drove an hour northeast, and spent four days exploring. I discovered immersive art at Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, wandered Canyon Road with its hundred-plus galleries, dined on griddled corn cakes and calabacitas at the cozy organic Café Pasqual, and hiked the stunning Dale Ball Trails, where I saw views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains alight with gorgeous early fall colors!
Location: southwest | Vibe: arty and fun | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F
My highlights…
- I stayed at the boutique 4-star Inn & Spa at Loretto – it featured Native American art, hand-carved dark wood furniture, kiva-style fireplaces, a heated outdoor pool, and traditional healing treatments — my purifying sage-infused ritual bath scented with earthy desert herbs was heavenly!
7. Asheville, North Carolina
I was totally enchanted by this vibrant mountain city in September – the weather was still pleasantly warm with crisp evenings, early fall colors had started to tint the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the city buzzed with outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and beer festivals. It felt like the perfect time for scenic drives, mountain hikes, and soaking up the lively yet laid-back Appalachian vibe!
I flew into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and stayed for a gorgeously cozy five days. I drove the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has one of the longest and most spectacular fall foliage seasons in the U.S. and then explored Hendersonville – nicknamed “Apple Alley” – where I wandered through orchards, corn mazes and pumpkin patches, sipped on spiced cider, and devoured steaming hot donuts.
I also explored Asheville’s creative side – browsing working studios in the River Arts District, sampling craft beers at Wicked Weed (the fruity Watermelon Dragonfruit Burst was a stand-out!) and Highland Brewing, enjoying live folk music at The Orange Peel, and wrapping up with a tour of the impressive Biltmore Estate and its beautifully manicured gardens.
Location: southeast | Vibe: quaint and arty | Avg temp: 70°F to 84°F
My highlights…
- Staying at the very cool 4-star boutique The Radical Hotel – I loved its funky posh-punk aesthetic, the awesome farm-to-table restaurant and its trendy rooftop bar where I sipped on fall-inspired cocktails (the Smoked Pear Old Fashioned was a stand-out) and gazed at city views!
- Enjoying a pumpkin-spiced oat-milk latte and a Marbled Matcha Cookie at the super-cute Pollen Coffee (which was also part of a pretty flower shop)!
8. Colorado Springs, Colorado
I personally thought this scenic city was absolutely magical during this month—the weather was sunny and mild, the summer crowds had faded, hotel prices were lower, and golden aspens had started lighting up the nearby mountains, making it perfect for hiking, scenic drives up Pikes Peak, and exploring the area’s outdoor attractions without the peak-season rush!
I also found fun festivals to attend such as the Hispanic heritage Fiestas Patrias and the awesome Pawtoberfest organized by the local Humane Society (both on in mid-September).
I flew into Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and stayed for a week. I hiked through vibrant fall foliage at North Cheyenne Cañon Park, rode the historic cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak, and was wowed by the towering red rocks of Garden of the Gods and the cascading beauty of Seven Falls – all made even more magical by the fresh September air and beautiful golden light!
Location: western | Vibe: laid-back but outdoor focused | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the large 4-star Garden of the Gods Resort – I really liked my lodge-style room with its leather armchairs and stone accents, the jaw-dropping views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, and their STRATA Integrated Wellness Spa, especially the halotherapy Himalayan Salt Room with its warm pink walls!
9. Kenai Fjords, Alaska
I thought September was a fantastic time to visit this stunning national park—there were fewer crowds, the cool temperatures were still comfortable, the wildlife like whales and sea otters remained active, the alpine tundra began to glow with fall colors, and it was one of the last chances of the year to take a boat tour past tidewater glaciers before winter made the park inaccessible.
I flew into Anchorage, then took the train for four hours 15 minutes south to Seward—the gateway to Kenai Fjords – where I spent five extraordinary days cruising past the towering Holgate and Aialik tidewater glaciers, and spotting sea otters, puffins, and even humpback whales
I also managed to hike the breathtaking Harding Icefield Trail, kayak through icy fjords for an incredible up-close look at the glaciers, and explore the harbor town of Seward, which was filled with charm and dotted with inviting local craft stores.
Location: south-central coast of Alaska | Vibe: wild, remote, and awe-inspiring | Avg temp: 40°F to 55°F
My favorite highlights…
- Going on an incredible whale-watching boat cruise with Major Marine Tours – it was awesome tucking into a grilled vegetable focaccia packed with roasted peppers and zucchini washed down with a locally brewed Puffin Pale Ale while gazing out across the wild ocean!
10. The Adirondack Mountains
I drove 5-hours from New York City had an amazing time staying at the wonderful 4-star Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort (my photo of the cozy lobby is above!) and spent my days admiring fiery foliage on the trails at Cascade Mountain and Indian Head, kayaking on Mirror Lake, and gazing at incredible mountaintop views along the scenic Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway.
Location: northeast | Vibe: peaceful and rustic | Avg temp: 50°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at on an exceptionally presented five-course tasting menu (the Wild Mushroom Tart drizzled with truffle oil was my favorite part!) in the Artisans restaurant at the Lake Placid Lodge while gazing at the stunning lake views (my photo is above)!
11. Cape May, New Jersey
I thought this charming seaside town still had awesome holiday vibes in September! I also found the ocean were still warm, the peak summer crowds had thankfully disappeared, the hotel rates had dropped, and I could enjoy the beaches in a quieter, more relaxing way!
I also found it was the ideal time for spotting local wildlife – especially monarch butterflies and migrating birds – and I even caught a couple of fun local events, including the lively Harvest Brew Fest and the toe-tapping Rea’s Harvest Fair!
I spent my time relaxing on Cape May’s beautiful beaches (I loved the secluded Higbee Beach and the tranquil Poverty Beach), sampling papas bravas at trendy Mayer’s Tavern, taking an awesome sunset dolphin-watching cruise, trying to spot the elusive Cape May diamonds glinting among the pebbles, gazing at the remains of the SS Atlantus and browsing quirky shops in Washington Street Mall – I loved the cute vintage beach signs in the Blue Daisy Gift Shop!
Location: northeast | Vibe: upscale historic seaside town | Avg temp: 64°F to 80°F
My highlights…
-
Swirling a glass of the dark berry Cape May Red Blend and velvety Estate Pinot Noir beneath the weathered barn wood rafters at Cape May Winery.
12. Zion National Park, Utah
When I visited this dramatic protected park in mid-September, I found the temperatures were still warm but much more comfortable (and safer!) for hiking, the crowds had thinned significantly compared to peak season, and early hints of fall color had begun to tint the stunning red rock landscapes – making it an ideal time for both adventure and photography.
I flew into Las Vegas, partied there for a weekend, drove three hours to the park’s entrance in Springdale, Utah and stayed for an extraordinary three days.
I hike the iconic trails of Angels Landing and The Narrows in cooler, less crowded conditions, spotted early fall colors along the Emerald Pools Trail, joined interesting ranger-led programs, and enjoyed superb scenic drives through Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons without the intense summer heat.
Warning: Flash floods can occur during this month which can cause significant risk in The Narrows.
Location: southwest | Vibe: rugged and adventurous | Avg temp: 60°F to 90°F
My highlights…
-
Pitching my REI Co-op Half Dome tent at Watchman Campground and waking each morning to towering red rock cliffs glowing orange in the sunrise with direct views of the dramatic Watchman peak and hearing the gentle rush of the Virgin River nearby!
13. Carmel-by-the-Sea, North California
I was completely enchanted by this picturesque coastal town on my break during this month! I found that the weather was still warm and sunny with none of that famous fog that blights the summer months, there were far fewer tourists after the big summer rush.
I drove two hours on on the breathtaking Highway One and spent four dreamy days soaking up its charms. I enjoyed romantic sunset walks along Carmel Beach, explored the art galleries and boutique shops on Ocean Avenue, hiked the photogenic trails in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and spent a lot of my time trying to spot blue whales and humpback whales as this month was peak whale watching season (the season lasted from April to November).
Location: west coast | Vibe: arty and romantic | Avg temp: 60°F to 70°F
My highlights…
- Staying at the romantic Tickled Pink Inn and whale-watching from our room with the complimentary binoculars while snacking on warm sea-salted chocolate chip cookies and caramel popcorn felt incredibly cozy!
- Going for a hearty Sunday Brunch Mission Ranch Restaurant — which I discovered was owned by Clint Eastwood so we had to book well in advance — was a real highlight, especially the fluffy French toast drenched in maple syrup and the warm buttery house-made croissants straight from the oven!
14. Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
This is where I spent a dreamy, warm fall break, and I discovered that September was an incredible time to visit this rugged, remote stretch of Kauai’s north shore.
I found the weather was warm and dry, the ocean conditions were calm – perfect for boat tours and kayaking – and hiking trails were especially lush! I also got to attend the lively Kauaʻi Mokihana Festival, and with fewer tourists around, I could enjoy the coast’s breathtaking cliffs, hidden beaches, and dramatic scenery in peace!
I flew into Lihue Airport on Kauai and stayed for an idyllic 10 days enjoying the calmer ocean conditions on boat and kayaking tours. I also hiked the scenic Kalalau Trail to Hanakāpīʻai Falls, managed to take an expensive (but worth it!) helicopter tour and snorkeled at Nualolo Kai and Tunnels Beach with fewer crowds and clearer water!
Warning: The Kalalau Trail is highly strenuous, regulated trail that required a permit which I arranged a few months in advance.
Location: Pacific region of the USA | Vibe: wild and remote | Avg temp: 75°F to 85°F
My favorite highlights…
-
Gazing at Instagram-worthy views on a sunset boat tour while dining on a freshly prepared buffet and cocktails felt magical — the smoky grilled portobello steak and the tropical Sneaky Tiki cocktail with pineapple and dark rum were especially divine!
15. Ozarks, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma
Although this picturesque region is best known for summer vacations, I actually loved visiting in early September — the very first touches of fall color were beginning to appear, the weather felt pleasantly cooler, and the seasonal festivals in the charming small towns gave the whole area a lively local feel.
I found that the weather was still warm but less humid, making it ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring scenic areas and I especially loved getting to join in the whimsical Original Ozark Folk Festival.
I flew into Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri and spent a wonderfully relaxing fortnight enjoying scenic hiking trails in the Ozark National Forest, boating on Table Rock Lake and the Lake of the Ozarks, exploring the quirky charm of Eureka Springs and kayaking the Buffalo National River.
Location: stretches across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and southeastern corner of Kansas in central-south | Vibe: scenic and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 64°F to 80°F
My highlights…
- Sampling the citrusy Missouri Vignoles wine and gorging on tasty wood-fired pizza served with lashings of truffle aioli at the rustic Bear Creek Wine Company.
16. Bend, Oregon
I loved visiting this vibrant, outdoor-focused city in September! The weather was sunny and mild—perfect for taking advantage of all the outdoor adventures on offer—and accommodation prices were lower since it was just outside of peak season. I also got to see the first hints of fall foliage, with photogenic golden aspens and red maples just starting to turn.
There was also lots of local harvest events and craft beer festivals which added a seasonal vibe! My personal favourites were the fun Oregon Whiskey Festival and the lively Cascade Equinox Festival.
I took a scenic three-hour drive from Portland and spent an unforgettable five days there. I hiked among golden trees in Shevlin Park, paddle-boarded and kayaked on the gorgeous Deschutes River, and explored lava caves at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
I also biked the breathtaking and leafy Phil’s Trail, and capped it all off with craft beer at the laid-back outdoor brewery Crux Fermentation Project – where the citrusy River Refresher IPA quickly became my favorite!
Location: Northwest | Vibe: cool and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 60°F to 80°F
My highlights…
- Browsing the cool little independent shops – I loved the quirky Ju-bee-lee gift shop which was filled with eco-focused clothes, paintings of local scenery, and super-cute hand-crafted heart lockets!
17. Beaufort, South Carolina
I took a trip to this historic coastal town during this month and found the summer heat and crowds had eased, the weather was still warm enough to enjoy waterfront strolls and outdoor activities and I found some great off-peak deals on accommodation too!
I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, drove for 45 minutes and stayed for a very charming five days at the gorgeous 4-star historic boutique Rhett House.
I strolled through Beaufort’s historic district with was filled with antebellum homes and moss-draped oaks, kayaked through the eerily still waters of Beaufort River and the tidal creeks of Hunting Island State Park, enjoyed an awesome dolphin-spotting tour, and gorged on hearty Southern cuisine at the waterfront restaurants.
Location: southeast | Vibe: relaxed and romantic | Avg temp: 70°F to 84°F
My highlights…
- Dining at the cozy Plums Restaurant – I loved gazing out at the peaceful water views while tucking into a fresh peach vinaigrette salad packed with candied pecans and juicy ripe peaches.
18. Saugatuck – Douglas, Michigan
I thought late September was the perfect time to explore this small and scenic small lakeside town —the peak summer crowds had long dispersed, the weather was pleasantly warm, and early fall colors added a cozy, small-town charm, turning it into a peaceful and low-key lakeside getaway.
There were also some really buzzy events on and I really enjoyed attending the cool Saugatuck Film Fest and the locals told me that the Lakeshore Harvest Ride had also taken place not long before!
I drove 2.5-hours from Chicago and stayed for a week enjoying just kicking back on the sands of Oval Beach, climbing Mount Baldhead where I was in awe at the Insta-worthy lake views, cruising the Kalamazoo River on the historic Chain Ferry, and taking a fun Saugatuck Dune Ride.
Location: Midwest | Vibe: creative and coastal | Avg temp: 60°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
-
Picking crisp Gala, Blondee, and Honeycrisp apples and getting happily lost in the 20-acre corn maze at Crane Orchards while the scent of cinnamon doughnuts drifted through the autumn air felt like the perfect fall day out!
19. Wallace, Idaho
I thought this small historic town made a wonderful place to kick off a fall mini-break! During my trip, I found the temperatures were still pleasant, the skies were clear – September is one of the drier months – and the early fall colors had just started to appear. I also loved the off-season prices, quieter pace, and cozy vibe that set in just before winter arrived
I flew into Spokane International Airport and drove 90 minutes minutes east and stayed for a unique long weekend. I biked the leafy Route of the Hiawatha, toured the interesting underground Sierra Silver Mine, explored Wallace’s charming historic district, and hunted around for cool vintage finds at the Under the Freeway Flea Market (loved the hip vibe)!
Location: Pacific Northwest | Vibe: quirky, historic and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 50°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
-
Cycling the scenic 15-mile paved Route of the Hiawatha Trail was a very unique experience, especially riding through the spooky pitch-black, damp Taft Tunnel with only my bright headlamp while the echoes of bike wheels bounced off the tunnel walls!
20. Dauphin Island, Alabama
I enjoyed a hot and sunny fall vacation on this small barrier island! In September, I found the Gulf waters were still warm, the weather was pleasant with a refreshing breeze, the summer crowds had faded, and bird migration was peaking at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary
I flew into Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), then drove 50 minutes south on AL-193 over the Gordon Persons Bridge and then stayed for a dreamy week on Dauphin Island.
I spotting pretty birds at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, explored historic Fort Gaines, relaxed on the quiet Gulf beaches, kayaked in the picturesque Pelican Bay and caught the family-friendly historical reenactment Massacre Island Pirate Invasion!
Location: Southeast Coast | Vibe: quiet and nature-focused | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F
My favorite highlights…
- Going on a very romantic sunset boat tour, cruising past the peaceful salt marshes of Pelican Bay as the Gulf sky fired up in shades of blazing tangerine, electric pink, and deep violet and spotting dolphins playing in the water!
Warning: there can be potential tropical storm disruptions during this month.
