Best Destinations to Explore in September USA
Looking for the perfect destinations to explore in September? The US offers an ideal blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates during this shoulder season. Enjoy vibrant fall colors, outdoor activities, and iconic attractions without the peak-season rush.
Why Travel in September in the USA?
September is the perfect shoulder season for a US vacation. You’ll enjoy fewer tourists, mild weather, lower hotel rates, vibrant fall colors, and a mix of summer adventures and cozy autumn vibes.
Santa Barbara, California: Coastal culture & sunsets; Sedona, Arizona: Red rock hikes & spiritual energy; Lake Tahoe, California: Fall foliage & outdoor fun; Bar Harbor, Maine: Coastal charm & Acadia adventures; Chicago, Illinois: Architecture, lakefront, and festivals; Hudson Valley, New York: Apple picking & scenic drives; Oregon Coast: Whale watching & iconic beaches; Charleston, South Carolina: Historic streets & gardens; San Diego, California: Endless summer beaches; Taos, New Mexico: Art & Native American heritage; Moab, Utah: Hiking & desert landscapes.
Introduction to September Travel
September is one of our favorite months to explore the USA. It’s a perfect blend of summer warmth and crisp fall air, offering the best of both worlds. You’ll dodge the heavy summer heat and big crowds, making it easier to enjoy popular attractions without long lines.
As the shoulder season kicks in, hotel rates drop, flights are often cheaper, and you’ll find more services and experiences available without the peak-season rush. Many parks and hiking trails are still open and welcoming, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Whether you’re taking a road trip through New England to see vibrant fall colors, soaking up beach days in California before winter, or exploring the rugged beauty of Washington’s national parks, September offers unbeatable variety. From apple picking in the Hudson Valley to wine tastings in Napa Valley and epic leaf-peeping in the Smoky Mountains, there’s something for every kind of traveler — couples, families with kids, or solo adventurers.
So pack your layers, grab your camera, and take advantage of this sweet spot before winter snow and holiday crowds arrive. September is truly the best time to hit the road and discover the USA in a whole new light.
1. Sedona, Arizona: A September trip to Sedona is all about stunning views, cooler weather, and fewer crowds. With average highs in the 70s, it’s a great time to hit the hiking trails or explore the many parks without the intense summer heat.We’ll never forget hiking Cathedral Rock at golden hour, the way the light bounced off the red rock formations felt almost spiritual. It’s the kind of place that stops you in your tracks.Top Things to Do:* Hike to Devil’s Bridge for panoramic views* Take a jeep or ATV tour through red rock canyons* Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross and explore spiritual vortex sites* Join guided hikes in Red Rock State Park* Try a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye account of Sedona’s epic sceneryLocal Tip: Mid September is an ideal time when temperatures are comfortable and hotel rates begin to drop.2. Lake Tahoe, California: Lake Tahoe in September is nature’s playground. It’s still warm enough for swimming and water sports, but cool enough for mountain hikes. You’ll catch vibrant fall colors reflecting on the lake’s surface, making it a picture-perfect vacation spot.We rented paddleboards on a whim and ended up watching the sun set from the middle of the lake. The water was glassy and still, one of those spontaneous moments that feels like a scene from a movie.Top Things to Do:* Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail or Eagle Lake Trail* Kayak, paddleboard, or swim in the lake* Attend Sample the Sierra festival for local eats and drinks* Take a scenic drive to see vibrant fall foliage* Relax at Sand Harbor BeachLocal Tip: September is a shoulder season advantage, offering fewer crowds and better access to popular spots.3. Bar Harbor, Maine: Bar Harbor is a dreamy New England getaway. September brings crisp air, colorful foliage in Acadia National Park, and lower hotel rates. You’ll experience the magic of early fall without the big summer crowds.Top Things to Do:* Hike Cadillac Mountain or the Beehive Trail for stunning views* Kayak in Frenchman Bay* Ride the Downeast Scenic Railroad* Stroll the Shore Path at sunrise* Eat lobster rolls and blueberry pie downtownLocal Tip: Book sunrise permits for Cadillac Mountain early as it’s a popular time for photographers.4. Chicago, Illinois: Chicago is at its best in September. The summer heat is gone, making it a great time to explore the city’s lakefront, architecture, and vibrant festivals.Top Things to Do:* Stroll or bike the Lakefront Trail* Take an architecture boat tour* Enjoy Chicago Jazz Festival and World Music Festival* Visit Millennium Park and the Art Institute* Try local eats at farmers markets and food festivalsLocal Tip: Check for outdoor concerts and rooftop patios, as this is the last big push before winter arrives.
Hudson Valley, New York is a must-visit destination in September. The region transforms into a haven for apple picking, vineyard hopping, and scenic drives as fall colors start to appear. Local farms welcome visitors with open arms, offering fresh produce and warm hospitality.
We stumbled upon this roadside farm stand near Rhinebeck that sold hot cider and apple cider donuts. It's safe to say we turned a 10-minute stop into a full hour and returned the next day for more.
Top Things to Do
- Go apple picking and taste fresh cider
- Visit art galleries and sculpture parks during Upstate Art Weekend
- Drive along the Hudson River for beautiful views
- Hike in Minnewaska State Park or along many parks in the area
- Check out charming towns and markets
Local Tip
September is a shoulder season sweet spot with fewer tourists and great hotel deals.
The Oregon Coast, Oregon offers a refreshing September trip, with mild weather perfect for coastal hikes and whale watching. Cannon Beach is our favorite destination, where we highly recommend doing sunset there like we did.
Top Things to Do
- Visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
- Tour Sea Lion Caves and watch migrating whales
- Drive Highway 101 for scenic ocean views
- Explore coastal state parks and tidepools
- Eat fresh seafood and sample craft beers
Local Tip
Pack a windbreaker because coastal winds can be strong even on sunny days.
Charleston, South Carolina shines in September. The city's charming streets and historic homes come alive with fewer tourists and mild temperatures. We took a walking tour and the guide sang gospel in the middle of a church courtyard – it was one of those unexpected, moving travel moments that stays with you.
Top Things to Do
- Visit Rainbow Row and the historic district
- Shop at Charleston City Market
- Tour Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- Take a harbor sunset cruise
- Explore hidden gardens and courtyards
Local Tip
September is still hurricane season, so keep an eye on forecasts and travel insurance options.
San Diego, California delivers an endless summer vibe in September. With warm weather, clear skies, and fun festivals, it's an ideal time to visit before winter rain arrives.
Top Things to Do
- Relax at La Jolla Shores or Coronado Beach
- Visit Balboa Park’s museums and gardens
- Enjoy the San Diego Zoo and animal encounters
- Go surfing or swimming in the Pacific
- Check out San Diego Restaurant Week
Local Tip
Morning beach visits offer the calmest water and open parking spots.
A September vacation to Taos offers art, history, and outdoor adventure in a stunning high desert setting. It is a place you have probably never heard of, but trust us, you should definitely add this to the September travel list.Top Things to Do:* Tour Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site* Hike in Carson National Forest* Explore Ledoux Street art galleries* Visit historic churches like San Francisco de Asis* Eat traditional New Mexican cuisineLocal Tip: Evenings cool down fast so layers are a good idea.Moab’s red rock landscapes are spectacular in September. The weather is cooler, making it a great time to hit the hiking trails and explore two iconic national parks.Top Things to Do:* Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park* Explore Canyonlands’ viewpoints and trails* Bike the famous Slickrock Trail* Raft the Colorado River* Camp under star-filled desert skiesLocal Tip: September is a popular time so book campsites and tours early.Santa Barbara combines luxury and laid-back beach life in September. It’s warm enough for swimming and beach days and cool enough for wine tasting and festivals.Top Things to Do:* Sail or kayak along the coast* Explore State Street shops and art galleries* Visit local wineries and tasting rooms* Check out the Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival* Enjoy sunset views at Butterfly BeachLocal Tip: Weekends book up quickly so plan ahead.Napa Valley shines in September during harvest season. Crisp mornings and sunny afternoons create perfect conditions for vineyard tours and outdoor activities. We accidentally timed our visit with the grape harvest, and let’s just say the free tastings and crisp morning walks through the vineyards turned us into early-rising wine lovers.Top Things to Do:* Attend grape harvest and wine tasting events* Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train* Try a hot air balloon ride for panoramic views* Enjoy farm-to-table restaurants* Bike through scenic vineyard routesLocal Tip: September is the most popular time to visit so tasting reservations are essential.Asheville is a fantastic September trip idea with early hints of fall color and a lively arts scene.Top Things to Do:* Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views* Visit Biltmore Estate and gardens* Hike in Pisgah National Forest* Attend food and art festivals like Goombay* Enjoy local breweries and music venuesLocal Tip: September weekdays are quieter for leaf peeping and trails.
14. The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North CarolinaThe Smoky Mountains are perfect for a September trip, with cooler days and fewer visitors. One of our favorite September mornings started with fog drifting through the trees on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The quiet, the color, and the smell of damp forest made us slow down and just breathe it all in.Top Things to Do:• Hike Chimney Tops or Alum Cave• Bike or drive Cades Cove Loop• Watch sunset from Clingmans Dome• Go fly fishing in mountain streams• Explore Gatlinburg’s harvest festivalsLocal Tip: Start early to see wildlife and beat afternoon rain showers.15. Boston, MassachusettsBoston in September feels alive with fall energy. Mild days are ideal for walking tours and outdoor attractions before the snow and winter chill set in.Top Things to Do:• Walk the Freedom Trail• Visit Fenway Park or catch a Red Sox game• Take a Boston Harbor cruise• Check out Boston Arts Festival• Explore markets and historic neighborhoodsLocal Tip: Book tours ahead as September weekends are popular.16. Denver, ColoradoWe’ve always found Denver to be one of those cities that surprises you, in the best way. September hits that sweet spot between summer heat and fall crispness, making it perfect for rooftop dinners, day hikes just outside the city, or catching a Rockies game without melting in the sun. Once, we ended up at a local bluegrass festival in RiNo and ended the night two-stepping with strangers. Denver knows how to make visitors feel like locals.Top Things to Do:• Day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park• Hike Red Rocks Park or Mount Falcon• Visit Great American Beer Festival• Explore art districts like RiNo• Enjoy Denver Botanic GardensLocal Tip: September weekends are a great time for mountain cabin getaways before winter snow arrives.17. Finger Lakes, New YorkThe Finger Lakes region is magical during September. With the grape harvest underway and waterfalls flowing, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. We stumbled on a small vineyard offering wood-fired pizza and wine flights on the patio, no reservation needed. By sunset, we were swapping travel stories with the owner over a glass of rosé. We love moments like these.Top Things to Do:• Taste wine along Seneca and Keuka Lake trails• Hike around Taughannock Falls State Park• Kayak or sail on the lakes• Visit Naples Grape Festival• Explore small towns like SkaneatelesLocal Tip: Book lakeside cabins early as fall is a popular time for romantic escapes.
18. New Orleans, LouisianaSeptember is a great time to visit New Orleans when the summer heat finally breaks and festival season kicks in. Having visited New Orleans on several occasions, you can be sure there will be no shortage of things to see and do.Top Things to Do:
- Attend Beignet Fest and Fried Chicken Festival
- Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi
- Listen to jazz on Frenchmen Street
- Explore the Garden District
- Check out local art galleries and markets
Local Tip: Book early as festival weekends fill fast.19. Santa Fe, New MexicoSanta Fe in September has this golden glow, like the adobe walls are soaking up the sun and radiating calm. On our last visit, we wandered into a courtyard during the Fiesta de Santa Fe and found ourselves eating roasted chiles and dancing with a mariachi band. It’s not just about the art galleries (though they’re incredible), it’s the scent of piñon wood in the air, the warm hospitality, and the way the town pulses with culture.Top Things to Do:
- Attend Wine and Chile Fiesta
- Visit Canyon Road galleries
- Hike Santa Fe National Forest trails
- Tour adobe churches and museums
- Browse local farmers markets
Local Tip: September is shoulder season so you can enjoy lower hotel rates and more space.20. Shenandoah National Park, VirginiaThere’s something soul-soothing about driving Skyline Drive in mid-September before the leaf-peeping crowds arrive. We spent a full day hopping between overlooks and hiking trails, chasing light through the trees. One morning, we watched deer graze beside our cabin as fog rolled through the valley. If you’re craving crisp mountain air and a slower pace, this is one of the most peaceful corners of the East Coast.Top Things to Do:
- Drive Skyline Drive for colorful vistas
- Hike Old Rag or Stony Man
- Visit Luray Caverns
- Join ranger-led wildlife walks
- Stargaze at Big Meadows
Local Tip: Plan a midweek visit to enjoy quieter trails and services.21. Portland, MaineEvery time we visit Portland in September, it feels like the city is in its element. Food trucks are buzzing, the air smells like coffee and pine, and everyone’s out biking or hiking before the rain returns. One afternoon, we biked the Springwater Corridor and ended up at a craft cider festival we didn’t even know was happening. Portland thrives in this in-between season, and it’s the perfect mix of urban cool and Pacific Northwest nature.Top Things to Do:
- Try local seafood at Harvest on the Harbor
- Visit Casco Bay Islands by ferry
- Tour Portland Head Light
- Explore Old Port’s shops and restaurants
- Sip local craft beers outdoors
Local Tip: September is an ideal time to try lobster rolls before seasonal spots close.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia offers crisp air and rugged coastline, making it one of the best places for a September trip. We once woke up at 4:30 am just to catch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. Totally worth it. There’s something special about being one of the first people in the U.S. to see the sun rise that day.
Top Things to Do
- Hike Cadillac Mountain or Gorham Mountain
- Bike the car-free carriage roads
- Paddle in Frenchman Bay
- Drive Park Loop Road
- Join ranger stargazing programs
Local Tip
Get sunrise permits for Cadillac Mountain well in advance.
We love September because it feels like the country is taking a deep breath after the summer rush. The trails are quieter, the sunsets are golden, and there’s a certain magic in the air as fall begins to roll in.
Whether you’re road tripping through New England, catching the last warm days at the beach, or chasing mountain views, there’s no better time to get out there and explore. Trust us — you’ll come home with stories (and photos) you’ll be talking about all year.
Top picks include Sedona, Lake Tahoe, Bar Harbor, Hudson Valley, Asheville, Napa Valley, and Acadia National Park.
Hudson Valley, Acadia National Park, and the Smoky Mountains show vibrant fall colors starting mid September.
Yes. It’s a great time thanks to fewer crowds, open trails, and mild weather across many parks like Acadia, Shenandoah, and Mount Rainier.
Yes. Lower hotel rates and shoulder season deals make it more affordable than peak summer.
Wine harvest festivals in Napa and Finger Lakes, jazz in Chicago and New Orleans, food festivals in Santa Fe and San Diego, and art events in Boston.
