22 Best Places to Visit in September USA (2025 Edition)

Looking for the best places to visit in September USA? September is the ideal time for a trip, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. It’s the perfect shoulder season to enjoy vibrant fall colors, outdoor activities, and iconic attractions.

Whether you’re planning a New England foliage adventure, a road trip through the mountains, or a coastal escape, this guide covers the best destinations to make the most of your September vacation. From Sedona’s red rocks to Napa’s harvest season and Maine’s rugged coastline, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

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.

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 scenery

Local TipMid 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 Beach

Local TipSeptember 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 downtown

Local TipBook 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 festivals

Local TipCheck for outdoor concerts and rooftop patios, as this is the last big push before winter arrives.

5. Hudson Valley, New York

Hudson Valley in mid September is all about apple picking, vineyard hopping, and scenic drives. Fall colors start popping, and local farms welcome visitors with open arms.

We found this roadside farm stand near Rhinebeck that sold hot cider and apple cider donuts. Safe to say, we turned a 10-minute stop into a full hour, and came back 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 TipSeptember is a shoulder season sweet spot with fewer tourists and great hotel deals.

6. Oregon Coast, Oregon

The Oregon Coast offers a refreshing September trip, with mild weather perfect for coastal hikes and whale watching. Cannon Beach is our favourite. WE do 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 TipPack a windbreaker because coastal winds can be strong even on sunny days.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s charming streets and historic homes shine in September. Lower humidity and mild temps make it a great time to wander, and the city feels vibrant with events and markets. 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 TipSeptember is still hurricane season so keep an eye on forecasts and travel insurance options.

8. San Diego, California

San Diego 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 TipMorning beach visits offer the calmest water and open parking spots.

9. Taos, New Mexico

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 cuisine

Local TipEvenings cool down fast so layers are a good idea.

10. Moab, Utah

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 skies

Local TipSeptember is a popular time so book campsites and tours early.

11. Santa Barbara, California

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 Beach

Local TipWeekends book up quickly so plan ahead.

12. Napa Valley, California

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 routes

Local TipSeptember is the most popular time to visit so tasting reservations are essential.

13. Asheville, North Carolina

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 venues

Local TipSeptember weekdays are quieter for leaf peeping and trails.

14. Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC

The 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 festivals

Local TipStart early to see wildlife and beat afternoon rain showers.

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston 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 neighborhoods

Local TipBook tours ahead as September weekends are popular.

16. Denver, Colorado

We’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 Gardens

Local TipSeptember weekends are a great time for mountain cabin getaways before winter snow arrives.

17. Finger Lakes, New York

The 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 Skaneateles

Local TipBook lakeside cabins early as fall is a popular time for romantic escapes.

18. New Orleans, Louisiana

September 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 TipBook early as festival weekends fill fast.

19. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa 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 TipSeptember is shoulder season so you can enjoy lower hotel rates and more space.

20. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

There’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 TipPlan a midweek visit to enjoy quieter trails and services.

21. Portland, Maine

Every 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 TipSeptember is an ideal time to try lobster rolls before seasonal spots close.

22. 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 TipGet 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in September in The USA