20 Amazing Places to Visit in September in the USA (That I Loved)

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 through a blaze of autumn color – finishing with a warm popover and blueberry soda at the Jordan Pond House while watching the leaves change all around me! 

• Visitors Center Address: 25 Visitor Center Rd, Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island, ME 04609
• Location: North coast of the northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: tranquil and nature-filled
• Established: 1916 | Size: Over 49,000 acres
• Average September temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the super-cute Lindenwood Inn in Southwest Harbor which was right next to the park – I loved that it was a beautifully refurbished former sea captain’s home with a romantic vibe, a pretty garden, a hot tub, and all kinds of boutique details such as polished hardwood floors.

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 family-friendly Magnolia Beauti-Fall Festival, the fun but terrifying Boone Hall Fright Nights, and the vibrant MOJA Arts Festival. 

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.

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! 

• Address of visitors center: 375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Location: Southeastern coast of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Laid-back, and elegant
• Average temperature – 21°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying in the beautiful 4-star Harbourview Inn – I was really taken with the exceptional boutique styling, the incredible waterfront location, the sociable wine hour and eating breakfast on the stunning rooftop terrace each morning!  
• Sampling the city’s famous Low country restaurants – I especially loved the Golden Beet Meatballs (made from golden beets, pecans, and mushrooms) which came served with a rich tomato sauce at the trendy Husk Restaurant.

3. New England

I headed to New England during this month (and stayed until the beginning of October) and found the weather was still pleasantly warm, the summer crowds had thinned out, and the first bursts of vibrant fall foliage had begun to appear across the beautiful countryside, quaint coastal towns, and stunning mountain landscapes.

I discovered it was the perfect time for scenic road trips, and comfortable hikes and also I loved attending the fun The Big E festival, sampling cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and riding The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s Fall Foliage train and gazing Insta-worthy 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, and lighthouse-hopping along Maine’s dramatic, rugged coastline

• Visitors’s Office Address: 75 S Main St, Unit 7, PMB 81, Concord, NH 03301
• Location: northeastern region of the country (spans Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont)
• Map Location
• Vibe: a cozy, nostalgic blend of small-town charm and lively celebrations
• Average September Temperature – 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the unique and Insta-worthy AWOL Stowe – I adored everything about this place, from the cozy boutique experience and trendy interiors to the Nordic spa, which featured a Finnish-style sauna, a cedar hot tub, and a cold plunge pool.
• Visiting Sam Mazza’s Farm Market, which had cute pumpkin patches, corn mazes, steaming donuts, and (my favorite!) Raspberry and Blueberry Pies.
• Tasting the delicious flavors of a homemade breakfast at the cute Polly’s Pancake Parlor – my stack of Oatmeal Buttermilk pancakes were heavenly!

4. Seattle, Washington

When I visited this hip seaport city in September, the weather was still pleasantly mild and mostly dry, the summer crowds had long gone, the city’s accommodation was easier to find (and more affordable!), and I loved the clear views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding waterways.

There was also an incredible array of awesome events going on too and I loved attending the family-friendly Washington State Fair, the toe-tapping Jackson Street Jazz Walk, and the fun Cider Summit where I got slightly tipsy!

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 craft coffee in the quirky neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont.

• Visitors Center Address: 701 Pike Street; Suite 800. Seattle, Washington 98101
• Location: northwestern part of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: creative and laid-back
• Average September Temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying in the 4-star Hotel Theodore – I really liked the stylish decor, the fine historic building it was housed in, the locally crafted furniture, the cool Well+Fit kit I found in my room and the awesome virtual concierge service! 
• Tasting a citrusy Tynamite Hazy IPA at the hipster-friendly Cowiche Creek Brewing Co. on the awesome Little Hopper Yakima Brewery Tour.

5. North Cascades National Park, Washington

I visited this unspoiled wilderness in September and found cool, crisp 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 elk, mountain goats, and mule deer (black bears were in the area too, though I was relieved not to meet one!).

• Visitor’s Center Address: 376 Newhalem St, Marblemount, WA 98267
• Location: northwestern part of the country
• Map Location
• Established: 1968 | Size: Over 500,000 acres
• Vibe: serene and majestic
• Average September Temperature – 10°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at a new Insta-worthy holiday home – I loved the contemporary designer building, its pet-friendly policy, the lush floor-to-ceiling windows, and the stunning glacier-side location.

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 starting to glow along the trails – the crisp mountain air made wandering the historic adobe streets, open-air markets, and art galleries especially enjoyable.

The city had also come alive with colorful festivals – I especially loved the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, which celebrated local culture with parades, music, and traditional dances, and witnessing the dramatic Burning of Zozobra, where a giant effigy of gloom was spectacularly set ablaze!

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! 

• Visitors Center Address: 491 Old Santa Fe Trail Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Location: in the southwestern part of the country
• Map Location
• Vibe: warm, artistic and fun
• Average September temperature – 13°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• I stayed at the gorgeous 4-star Inn & Spa at Loretto, a boutique gem with Native American art, custom-made furniture, and a heated outdoor pool. I especially loved the spa’s use of traditional healing treatments – like my purifying sage-infused ritual bath! 

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 5 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, tasting craft beers at Wicked Weed (I loved their fruity Blue Razz 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.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Location: southeastern part of USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: lively and creative yet laid-back. 
• Average temperature – 21°C to 29°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the very Insta-worthy 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 heavenly) and gazed at city views!
• Enjoying a pumpkin-spiced oat-milk latte and freshly baked 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 in early fall—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. 

I flew into Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and stayed for four days. 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 crisp September air and beautiful golden light! 

• Visitors Center Address: 515 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
• Location: western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: refreshing and adventurous
• Average September temperature – 13°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the large 4-star Garden of the Gods Resort – I loved my stylish lodge style room, the stunning views of the Garden of the Gods Park and Pikes Peak and the STRATA Integrated Wellness and Spa, especially the unique halotherapy Himalayan Salt Room!
• Visiting the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum – it was great to hear about the area’s interesting history and I especially loved the slightly surreal Van Briggle Art Pottery.

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 three hours 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.

• Visitor Center Address: 1212 4th Avenue Seward, AK 99664
• Location: south-central coast of Alaska, in the far northwestern part of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: wild, remote, and awe-inspiring
• Average September temperature – 7°C to 13°C

My favorite highlights…

• Going on an incredible whale-watching boat cruise with Major Marine Tours – it was an experience incredible eating a hearty deli lunch washed down with a locally brewed Puffin Pale Ale while gazing out to sea!

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.

• Address of Visitors Center: I-87 N (Between Exits 17 &, 18, Queensbury, NY 12804
• Location: northeastern United States, in upstate New York
• Map Location
• Vibe: peaceful and rustic
• Average temperature – 10°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at on an exceptionally presented five-course tasting menu (the home-made Wild Mushroom Tart 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, like the lively Harvest Brew Fest and the toe-tapping Country Harvest Festival!

I spent my time relaxing on Cape May’s beautiful beaches (I loved the secluded Higbee Beach and the tranquil Poverty Beach), sampling fresh local food at Schellenger’s Landing, taking a dreamy sunset dolphin-watching cruise, and browsing quirky shops and sweet treats at Washington Street Mall – my favorite stop was the super cute Blue Daisy Gift Shop!

• Address: New Jersey 08204
• Location: northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: peaceful and romantic 
• Average September temperature – 18°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Tasting the slightly fruity Cape May Red Blend and Estate Pinot Noir at the rustic-chic Cape May Winery, the freshly made sushi tacos were also divine!
• Watching the sunset at Sunset Beach while sifting through the pebbles for Cape May diamonds and spotting the remains of the SS Atlantus! 

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.

• Visitors Center Address: Zion National Park, 1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
• Location: southwestern part of United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: rugged and adventurous
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 32°C

My highlights…

• Pitching my REI Co-op Half Dome at the Watchman Campground and waking up each morning being surrounded by imposing red rocks and direct views of the Watchman peak!

13. Carmel-by-the-Sea, North California 

I was completely enchanted by this picturesque coastal town on my fall break! I found that the weather was still warm and sunny, the famous fog had started to life, there were far fewer tourists after the big summer rush, and its charming streets were buzzing with local events. My favorites were the Carmel International Film Festival and the nearby Monterey Jazz Festival. 

I drove two hours on on the breathtaking Highway One and spent a dreamy three days soaking up its quaint and elegant charms.

I enjoyed romantic sunset walks along Carmel Beach, explored the art galleries and cute boutique shops on Ocean Avenue, hiked the Insta-worthy trails in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and spent a lot of my time trying to spot blue whales and humpback whales – this month was peak whale watching season (the season lasted from April to November)!

• Visitors Center Address: Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
• Location: California’s central coast, western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: peaceful, romantic, and artistic 
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the super-welcoming Tickled Pink Inn and whale-watching from my room with cute complementary binoculars whilst gorging on tasty complementary kettle corn!
• Going for a hearty Sunday Brunch Mission Ranch Restaurant (which I found out was owned by Clint Eastwood so I had to book in advance!) – the French Toast with Maple Syrup and House Made Croissants were delicious! 

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 like the Kalalau Trail were lush and accessible. 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, took a helicopter tour and saw incredible aerial views of the coast, and snorkeled at Nualolo Kai and Tunnels Beach with fewer crowds and clearer water!

• Address: Kauai Visitors Bureau, 4334 Rice Street, Lihue, HI 96766, United States
• Location: a 16-mile coastal stretch in Kauai from Polihale Beach to Kee Beach, the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific region of the United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: wild and remote
• Average September temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Gazing at Instagram-worthy views on a sunset boat tour while dining on a freshly prepared buffet and cocktails – the grilled portobello steak and the Sneaky Tiki were heavenly!

15. Ozarks, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma 

While this picturesque region is typically known for summer vacations, I loved visiting in September – it was actually a magical time to be there, with early fall colors beginning to appear and seasonal festivals in its charming towns adding a lively, local flavor! 

I found that the weather was still warm but less humid, making it ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring scenic areas. The region also came alive with a variety of festivals and events – I especially loved the fun Original Ozark Folk Festival and the Autumn Daze Arts, Crafts & Music 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 soaking up the early fall colors along the Buffalo National River.

• Address: Ozarks Regional Tourism office, located at 205 S. Commercial Street, Branson, MO 65616.
• Location: the region stretches across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and the southeastern corner of Kansas in central-southern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: laid-back and outdoorsy
• Average September temperature – 18°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Sampling the citrusy Missouri Vignoles wine and gorging on tasty wood-fired pizza served with truffle aioli at the Shawnee Bluff Winery.

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, the lively Cascade Equinox Festival and the Sisters Folk 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!

• Visitors Center Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703
• Location: Pacific Northwest region of the western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: a mix of urban cool and outdoorsy
• Average temperature – 16°C to 27°C

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 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 the Spanish Moss Trail and Hunting Island State Park, enjoyed an awesome dolphin-spotting tour, and gorged on hearty Southern cuisine at the waterfront restaurants.

• Visitors Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Location: southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: relaxed and romantic Southern vibe
• Average September temperature – 21°C to 29°C

My highlights…

• Dining at the cozy Plums Restaurant – I really enjoyed both the water views and my delicious peach vinaigrette salad!
• Indulging in delicious Southern food at Saltus River Grill – I the superb river views and the tasty truffle fries were a highlight!

18. Saugatuck – Douglas, Michigan

I thought September was the perfect time to explore this small and scenic lakeside city—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 cultural Saugatuck Art in the Park, the cool Saugatuck Film Fest and the fun Lakeshore Harvest Ride.

I drove 2.5-hours from Chicago and stayed for a long weekend. I enjoyed 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 gazing at the early fall colors on a Saugatuck Dune Ride.

• Visitors Center Address: 95 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas, MI 49406
• Location: Midwestern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: relaxed, creative, and coastal
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Picking gala, blondee and honeyscrisp apples and getting lost in the 20-acre corn maze at the family-friendly Crane Orchards.

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 browsed cool vintage finds at the very hip Under the Freeway Flea Market! 

• Visitor Center Address: River St Wallace Visitor Center, Wallace, ID 83873-2142
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Cycling the scenic 15-mile paved Hiawatha Trail – it was a very unique experience traveling through the spooky pitch black and damp Taft Tunnel (I packed a bright headlamp)!

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

There was also some awesome festivals on including the family-friendly lively historical reenactment Massacre Island Pirate Invasion and The Headless Pirate of Dauphin Island which was an entertaining dinner theater experience held at the Dauphin Island Community Center.

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.

• Visitors Center Address: 109 Bienville Boulevard Mobile County 36528 Dauphin Island
• Location: southeastern United States, off the southern coast of Alabama in the Gulf of Mexico
• Map Location
• Vibe: peaceful and laid-back
• Average September temperatures – 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a very romantic sunset boat tour and passing atmospheric moss-draped Goat Trees, and prehistoric Indian Shell Mounds and dolphins playing in the water!