With cooler weather, thinner crowds, and the first hints of fall, September is one of my favorite months to explore the U.S. After years of shoulder-season road trips, these are my top places to visit—from cozy mountain retreats to buzzing breweries and colorful farmers’ markets…
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Visiting Acadia National Park after Labor Day was absolutely ideal — the park was quieter, the weather remained mild, and early autumn colour made the already-beautiful drives even more spectacular.
I landed in Bangor, hit the road for 90 minutes, and spent four truly unforgettable days among rugged cliffs, earth-scented woodland trails, and shimmering ocean vistas all of which really captivated me!
I watched an Insta-worthy sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, admired the Bubbles from Jordan Pond Path, and explored the historic Carriage Roads by bike—rewarded with a tangy blueberry soda at Jordan Pond House afterwards (the lake and mountain views here were just wow)! Just make sure you plan for the rapidly diminishing daylight hours by late September.
Location: NorthEast | Vibe: tranquil and nature-filled | Avg temp: 50°F to 65°F
My personal highlights…
- Staying at Lindenwood Inn as it was a dreamy slice of New England—part historic sea captain’s home, part hydrangea-and-lupin-filled hideaway with gleaming oak floors, burnished brass and a steaming hot tub beneath the stars!
2. Charleston, South Carolina
I loved this port city in early fall—the summer heat had finally broken, the gardens were still filled with roses, hibiscus, and late-blooming crape myrtle, the waterfront remained wonderfully green and peak-season crowds were long gone. Lower hotel rates and the music-filled MOJA Arts Festival were welcome bonuses!
My five sunny days in Charleston mixed the warm sands of Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach with the Historic District’s cobbled lanes, Rainbow Row’s candy-colored houses and a hearty Bradford cabbage pancake at buzzy Husk!
I happily ate my way through Charleston City Market, tasting velvety okra soup, smoky red rice and delicate, sesame-studded benne wafers—all accompanied by the stallholders’ infectious Southern warmth!
Location: Southeast coast | Vibe: romantic and elegant | Avg temp: 78°F to 80°F.
My personal highlights…
- Staying in the boutique elegance of the 4-star Harbourview Inn, especially mornings spent sipping locally roasted Second State Coffee and tucking into incredibly fluffy, blueberry-topped pancakes on the rooftop terrace!
3. New England
I found September a seriously dreamy time to explore New England, staying until early October. The air was still warm, the summer crowds had melted away, and photogenic streaks of ruby, burnt orange, and gold were beginning to paint the scenery—although admittedly peak leaf-peeping traffic did cause a fair bit of congestion!
My trip became a heady whirl of flame-coloured road trips, cool woodland hikes and orchard-fresh cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, topped off by a nostalgic train ride through Winnipesaukee’s dazzling autumn scenery!
I kicked off my 14-day New England adventure at Boston Logan, swapping grey city streets for the fiery early fall colours of the Kancamagus Highway, Woodstock’s storybook charm, Sunset Ridge’s leaf-carpeted paths and Maine’s salt-sprayed lighthouses and a syrupy pancake stop at Polly’s!
Location: northeast | Vibe: cozy and nostalgic | Avg temp: 60°F to 75°F
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the unique AWOL Stowe where cozy boutique styling, knitted throws and crackling fires met a soothing Nordic spa complete with a Finnish-style sauna, cedar hot tub, ice-cold plunge pool and smoky lapsang souchong tea!
4. Seattle, Washington
My September trip to Seattle delivered mostly dry days, fewer crowds and easier-on-the-wallet hotels—along with crystal-clear Mount Rainier views and the lively horns, basslines and toe-tapping energy of the Jackson Street Jazz Walk.
I flew into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport and spent four days gazing over the skyline and distant mountains from the Space Needle, grazing my way around Pike Place Market, admiring Chihuly’s jewel-bright glass sculptures and sipping oat-milk cardamom lattes in quirky 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 its locally-crafted walnut furniture, the baby pink in-room yoga mat and resistance bands—and the clever virtual concierge that tipped me off about the nearby hidden speakeasy!
5. North Cascades National Park, Washington
September transformed this remote Pacific Northwest wilderness into a tapestry of golden larches, crimson foliage and rugged alpine peaks—and with the summer crowds gone, its trails and winding Highway 20 felt wonderfully peaceful.
After touching down at SEA, I used one base for five days and tackled the immense North Cascades in carefully planned stretches—following Highway 20 past forested valleys and jagged peaks while keeping repeat mileage low.
I hiked part of the Maple Pass Loop through cool, pine-scented air and listening to leaves crunch under my feet. Mountain goats clambered across the rocks and mule deer moved quietly through the brush. Black bears were in the area too apparently, but I thankfully didn’t get to meet one!
Warning: North Cascades Highway usually closes in November, though early snow can disrupt roads and trails from 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 loved the homemade liver dog treats and plaid pet blanket, the huge windows framing icy glacier views and waking to the sound of meltwater streams softly trickling outside!
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico
I discovered New Mexico’s captivating capital at its loveliest in September, with mellow sunshine, clean mountain air, quieter adobe streets, uncrowded art galleries, and budget-friendly hotel deals. Out on the trails, the cottonwoods had begun their golden transformation (much to my delight)!
I especially loved getting to join in the lively 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 awesome days soaking up the city’s wonderfully eccentric spirit. I explored Meow Wolf’s kaleidoscopic installations, browsed Canyon Road’s century-plus galleries, sampled griddled corn cakes and calabacitas at cozy organic Café Pasqual, and hiked the spectacular Dale Ball Trails as the Sangre de Cristo Mountains filled with early fall colors!
Location: southwest | Vibe: arty and fun | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F
My highlights…
- Staying at the boutique 4-star Inn & Spa at Loretto, where Native American art, carved dark wood, kiva fireplaces, a heated pool, and a heavenly sage-scented ritual bath created a distinctly Southwestern feel!
7. Asheville, North Carolina
I adored the mountain city of Asheville in September, when early fall colors glowed across the Blue Ridge Mountains and warm days slipped into fresh but comfortable evenings. Between long scenic drives, mountain hikes, outdoor concerts, artisan farmers’ markets, and fun beer festivals, the break was lively but still with an easygoing Appalachian charm.
My five-day fall escape began at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), followed by a spectacular foliage drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In Hendersonville’s aptly nicknamed “Apple Alley,” I wandered through rustling orchards, wriggled through corn mazes, walked around pumpkin patches, and warmed up with spiced cider and sugar-dusted doughnuts.
I also explored Asheville’s creative side – browsing working studios in the River Arts District, sampling craft beers at Wicked Weed (try the fruity Watermelon Dragonfruit Burst!) 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: 55°F to 80°F
My highlights…
- Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star boutique The Radical Hotel – I loved its funky posh-punk aesthetic, their farm-to-table restaurant and its trendy rooftop bar where I sipped on fall-inspired cocktails (the Smoked Pear Old Fashioned was heavenly!) while gazing at city views!
8. Colorado Springs, Colorado
This scenic city felt utterly magical in September, when sunny, mild days, lighter crowds, and lower hotel rates coincided with golden aspens illuminating the nearby mountains. It was the sweet spot for peaceful hikes, outdoor adventures, and foliage-filled drives up Pikes Peak!
I also found fun festivals to attend such as the Hispanic heritage Fiestas Patrias and the fun 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 pretty 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 beautiful golden light!
Warning: the high elevation here can cause altitude sickness so come prepared!
Location: western | Vibe: laid-back but outdoor focused | Avg temp: 55°F to 75°F
My favorite highlights…
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I stayed at the sprawling 4-star Garden of the Gods Resort, where my lodge-style room featured worn leather armchairs and stone accents, the views stretched to Pikes Peak, and the spa’s warm-pink Himalayan Salt Room was wonderfully soothing!
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 loved how there was a glacial dampness that clung to my jacket out on the open water.
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 cute little 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 5.5 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 great holiday vibes in September! I also liked that the ocean was 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!
It was also the ideal time for spotting local wildlife – especially monarch butterflies and migrating birds (I loved hearing the sharp, echoing cries of migrating ospreys swirling overhead!) – and I even caught the the fun Harvest Brew Fest which had an impressive range of seasonal craft beers, from pumpkin ales to autumn lagers.
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 a beautiful 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…
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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 liked how 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 85°F
My highlights…
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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! The weather was still wonderfully warm and sunny with none of that famous fog that blights the summer months, there were far fewer tourists after the big summer rush.
After a spectacular two-hour drive along Highway One, I settled in for four truly breathtaking days of sunset walks on Carmel Beach, gallery-hopping and boutique browsing along Ocean Avenue, and hiking the wave-lashed trails of Point Lobos.
With whale season running from April to November, I also spent hours searching for blue and humpback whales offshore before going for a hearty Sunday Brunch at Mission Ranch Restaurant (owned by Clint Eastwood)!
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!
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.
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…
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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 zingy 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 fresh, and the seasonal festivals in the charming small towns gave the whole area a lively local feel.
The temperature 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
This outdoor-loving city completely won me over in September, with blue-skied days, comfortable hiking weather, and better-value accommodation just beyond peak season. The first buttery aspens and fiery red maples made everything even more photogenic!
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.
After driving three photogenic hours from Portland, I spent five action-packed days embracing the outdoors. I wandered Shevlin Park’s gold-dappled trails, paddled the sparkling Deschutes River, ventured into Newberry’s eerie lava caves, and biked the leafy bends of Phil’s Trail—then rewarded myself with a citrus-bright IPA at Crux Fermentation Project.
Warning: September is a prime window for wildfire season in the Pacific Northwest.
Location: Northwest | Vibe: fun 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 the cute rose gold heart lockets!
17. Beaufort, South Carolina
I took a trip to this historic coastal town during this month and liked how the summer heat and crowds had eased, the weather was still warm enough to enjoy waterfront strolls and outdoor activities and I came across 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 which 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 fun dolphin-spotting tour, and tried 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 still 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 Indie-spirited 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…
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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 found this tiny heritage-filled town ideal for kicking off a fall mini-break. September brought pleasant temperatures, reliably clear skies, early autumn color, and excellent off-season rates—all wrapped in a peaceful, cozy atmosphere 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 vintage goods at the Under the Freeway Flea Market (loved the hip vibe)!
Warning: Being deep in a mountain canyon, autumn weather can dramatically shift overnight.
Location: Pacific Northwest | Vibe: quirky, historic and outdoorsy | Avg temp: 50°F to 70°F
My favorite highlights…
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Cycling the scenic 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha was unforgettable, especially pedalling through the pitch-black, dripping Taft Tunnel as my headlamp cut through the gloom and spinning wheels echoed around its walls!
20. Dauphin Island, Alabama
I enjoyed a hot and sunny fall vacation on this small barrier island! In September, the Gulf waters were still warm, the weather was still pleasant (but with a refreshing breeze), the summer crowds had faded, and bird migration was peaking.
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 spotted photogenic 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…
- Taking a romantic sunset cruise through Pelican Bay’s peaceful salt marshes, where dolphins played beneath a Gulf sky streaked with blazing tangerine, electric pink, and deep violet!
Warning: there can be potential tropical storm disruptions during this month.
