20 Amazing Places To Visit In September In The USA

With cooler weather, fewer crowds, and the first signs of fall, I’ve always found September to be one of the best times to explore the USA. After years of living here and traveling widely during this month, these are the places I’ve personally loved most – from cozy mountain towns to coastal gems…

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

September was magical in this scenic coastal park — I discovered peaceful trails without the summer crowds, soft, mild days, and the forests that had begun to glow with early fall hues that made every winding drive a postcard moment (seriously)!

I flew into Bangor International, drove 1.5 hours, and spent five days immersed in a perfect blend of rugged granite peaks, pine forests, sweeping ocean views, and the quaint coastal charm that makes this spot both peaceful and very adventurous!

I started with a sunrise spectacle on Cadillac Mountain, hiked the beautiful Jordan Pond Path and saw incredible Bubble views (two famous rounded granite peaks), and cycled the spectacular Carriage Roads under a canopy of fiery foliage — finishing with the perfect autumn treat of a warm popover and blueberry soda at the historic lakeside Jordan Pond House.

• Location: North coast of the northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Established: 1916 | Size: Over 49,000 acres
• Wildlife: white-tailed deer, moose, red foxes, porcupines, beavers, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and harbor seals along the rocky coast.
• Average September temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the cute and romantic boutique Lindenwood Inn – I loved the hot tub, the original features at this former sea captain’s home (including a vintage compass) and the garden which was filled with red Adirondack chairs, whimsical birdhouses, and hydrangea bushes!

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Early fall in this port city was a dream — I discovered mild weather, greenery still thriving in the gardens and waterfront parks, blissfully uncrowded streets, and far more agreeable hotel rates.

Charming and historic with a warm, welcoming Southern spirit, I admired its colorful antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, and palm-lined waterfronts framed by shimmering harbor views.

I also loved discovering that September brought the Magnolia Beauti-Fall Festival, the thrilling Boone Hall Fright Nights, and the lively, colorful MOJA Arts Festival.

I touched down at Charleston International and filled five sunny days with warm sands on Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach, scenic walks through the Historic District, gazed at the candy-colored houses of Rainbow Row, tasted okra soup, red rice, and sweet benne wafers at the bustling Charleston City Market.

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

My personal highlights…

3. New England

I quickly learned why so many say late September through early October is the ideal New England escape— the weather was still warm, the summer bustle had faded, and flashes of autumn color had beautifully lit up the countryside, seaside villages, and mountain vistas!

I loved its cozy and welcoming vibe as well as its fiery foliage, pretty covered bridges, and quaint villages set against rolling hills and crisp blue skies.

The month was packed with fun events, including the nostalgic family-friendly The Big E festival, the adult-focused Cores & Pours: A Farm to Cider Tasting Event, and (my favorite!) the mid-September Fall Foliage Train Ride at The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad!

After landing at Boston Logan, I embarked on a two-week New England road trip — driving the stunning Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, exploring quaint Woodstock in Vermont, hiking Mount Mansfield’s leaf-strewn Sunset Ridge Trail, gorging on steaming donuts at Sam Mazza’s Farm Market and lighthouse-hopping down Maine’s dramatic coastline!

• Location: northeastern region of the country (spans Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont)
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• Average September Temperature – 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy AWOL Stowe, I loved its cozy boutique vibe, unique stylish interiors, and Nordic spa which had Finnish sauna, cedar hot tub, and cold plunge pool and how it was beautifully lit up at night with soft amber string lights and copper lanterns!

4. Seattle, Washington

In September, this energetic seaport city greeted me with warm, dry weather, crowd-free streets, much more wallet-friendly hotel prices, and flawless views of Mount Rainier rising over the surrounding waters! 

I loved the laid-back yet creative vibe and the scenery of snow-capped mountains, shimmering Puget Sound waters, and skyline of sleek glass towers.

There was an incredible array of awesome events going on – there was the family-friendly Washington State Fair, the toe-tapping Jackson Street Jazz Walk, and the fun Cider Summit which I attended and got slightly tipsy!

After landing at SEA, I spent four days at the trendy 4-star boutique Hotel Theodore taking in the famous Space Needle panoramas, sampling my way through the foodie-paradise Pike Place Market, exploring the dazzling Chihuly Garden and Glass, and enjoying artisan coffee in the offbeat streets of Capitol Hill and Fremont.

• Location: northwestern part of the United States
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• Average September Temperature – 13°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

5. Santa Fe, New Mexico

I spent September in New Mexico’s one-of-a-kind capital, enjoying warm, comfortable days, light crowds, bargain stays, and golden cottonwoods glowing along the trails — all with crisp mountain air perfect for exploring!

I loved the warm, artistic and fun vibe as well as the Adobe-style buildings in earthy tones, framed by high desert landscapes and the distant Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

This month came alive with colorful festivals too —I personally loved the spectacular Fiestas de Santa Fe which honored the city’s rich Spanish and Native heritage with traditional music, dance and art markets and I heard from locals that the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta which celebrated local flavors took place at the end of the month.

After landing at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), I headed an hour northeast for four days of exploring — from the surreal Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return to Canyon Road’s 100+ galleries, a cozy Café Pasqual feast of griddled corn cakes and calabacitas, and hiking the Dale Ball Trails past the Sangre de Cristos shimmering with autumn hues!

• Location: in the southwestern part of the country
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• Average September temperature – 13°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• I stayed at the 4-star boutique Inn & Spa at Loretto – I loved its with Native American art, hand-carved furniture, heated outdoor pool with gorgeous mountain views, and its spa where I indulged in a purifying sage-infused ritual bath inspired by ancestral healing traditions!

6. The Adirondack Mountains 

 

I fell in love with this underrated hidden gem during an early fall getaway. September felt like the perfect time to visit—the air had turned crisp and cozy, the peak-season crowds had thankfully long gone, and the gorgeous landscapes had started to glow with early fall colors, making my hikes and Insta-worthy drives feel truly magical!

 

I loved soaking up the peaceful and rustic vibes as well as the towering forested peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and charming lakeside villages tucked into the valleys.

 

I drove five hours from NYC to the charming 4-star Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort (check out my cozy lobby photo above!) and spent my days hiking through fiery foliage at Cascade Mountain and Indian Head, kayaking on Mirror Lake, and soaking up mountaintop views from the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway.

• Location: northeastern United States, in upstate New York
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• Average temperature – 10°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on an exquisitely presented five-course tasting menu at the stunning Lake Placid Lodge’s Artisans restaurant — my favorite was the homemade wild mushroom tart with earthy chanterelles — while gazing out at the shimmering lake views (my photo is above!).

7. Asheville, North Carolina

I was totally enchanted with this lively mountain city in September — warm days, crisp nights, the Blue Ridge Mountains brushed with early fall color, and a buzz of seasonal outdoor events!

It had a laid-back but creative Appalachian vibe and I loved the scenery which consisted of a mountain backdrop, attractive art-deco and historic brick buildings, and picturesque, tree-lined streets.

After landing at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), I spent a dreamy week at the Insta-worthy 4-star boutique The Radical Hotel driving the Blue Ridge Parkway’s endless autumn scenery, sampling local produce at the relaxed River Arts District Farmers Market and then exploring Hendersonville — “Apple Alley” — where I wandered orchards, got lost in corn mazes, and picked pumpkins. 

I also explored Asheville’s cultural soul — wandering the River Arts District’s bustling studios, sampling craft beers at Wicked Weed (the Blue Razz Burst stole the show!), soaking up folk music at The Orange Peel, touring the magnificent historic Biltmore Estate and gazing at quirky sculptures in the Enchanted Garden Art Show.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
• Location: southeastern part of USA
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 21°C to 29°C

My highlights…

• Savoring a pumpkin-spiced oat-milk latte and a freshly baked marbled matcha cookie at the super-cute Pollen Coffee, which was tucked inside a charming flower shop!

8. Cape May, New Jersey

I thought this charming seaside town still had awesome holiday vibes in September! I also discovered the ocean was still warm, the peak summer crowds had thankfully disappeared, the hotel rates had lowered, and I could enjoy the beaches in a quieter, more relaxing way!

I loved how it had a charming, nostalgic vibe with pastel Victorian houses, quaint boutique-lined streets, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere which mixed historic elegance with classic beach-town fun.

I found it was the perfect time for spotting monarch butterflies and migrating birds, and I even caught lively local events like the Harvest Brew Fest and the toe-tapping Country Harvest Festival.

I drove three hours to spend ten days at the unique 4-star boutique Congress Hall, splitting my time between Higbee and Poverty Beach, indulging in local cuisine at Schellenger’s Landing, sailing on a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, sipping on an Estate Pinot Noir at the rustic-chic Cape May Winery and browsing Washington Street Mall where the Blue Daisy Gift Shop became my favorite quirky find!

• Location: northeastern United States
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• Average September temperature – 18°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Gazing at an impressive sunset, sifting through pebbles for glistening Cape May diamonds, and spotting the eerie, rusting remains of the SS Atlantus at Sunset Beach!

9. North Cascades National Park, Washington

I explored this untouched wilderness in September, when golden larches and fiery foliage lit up the cool alpine air, the trails and Highway 20 drives were blissfully quiet, wildlife sightings were plentiful, and the summer crowds were long gone!

I loved its wild, remote, and awe-inspiring, with a raw alpine beauty that was filled with jagged, glacier-capped peaks, emerald alpine lakes, and dense evergreen forests which stretched to the horizon.

I flew into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, drove 2.5 hours northeast, and turned it into a week-long 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 tackled part of the Maple Pass Loop, surrounded by blazing fall color and Insta-worthy mountain vistas, spotting elk, mountain goats, and mule deer — with black bears nearby, though thankfully not on my trail!

• Location: northwestern part of the country
• Map Location
• Established: 1968 | Size: Over 500,000 acres
• Average September Temperature – 10°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy, dog-friendly Mt Baker Rim Cabin – I loved the striking designer building, the cozy vibe, the incredible location and sipping on a locally brewed Honey Bear (espresso with honey, cinnamon, and oat milk) on my porch each morning!

10. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Early fall here was pure magic – warm sunshine, no summer crowds, better hotel deals, and golden aspens lighting up the mountains, setting the scene for hikes, scenic Pikes Peak drives, and unhurried outdoor adventures!

I was in awe of its Insta-worthy red rock formations, snow-dusted mountain peaks, and charming downtown framed by wide-open blue skies and loved soaking up the adventurous and outdoorsy, vibes which mixed a laid-back mountain-town feel and a touch of Western charm!

I also joined in the fun at the lively Fiestas Patrias celebrating Hispanic heritage and the tail-wagging Pawtoberfest hosted by the local Humane Society.

My four-day Colorado Springs escape began at Colorado Springs Airport (COS) with golden hikes in North Cheyenne Cañon Park, learning local history at Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, a cog railway ride to Pikes Peak, awe at Garden of the Gods’ dramatic red rocks, and the shimmering cascades of Seven Falls — all under September’s wonderful golden glow! 

• Location: western United States
• Map Location
• 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!

11. Ozarks, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma 

This region may shine in summer, but September was enchanting — crisp yet warm weather, splashes of autumn color, and local festivals bringing charm to its towns while I hiked, boated, and explored.

I was a big fan of the incredible scenery which was rolling forested hills, sparkling lakes and rivers, and hidden limestone caves scattered through the landscape. It felt cozy, peaceful, and nature-filled, with a rustic, small-town charm and a hint of backcountry adventure!

I flew into Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri and spent a relaxing fortnight at the family-friendly, charming Still Waters Resort and joined in the toe-tapping Original Ozark Folk Festival and the creative Autumn Daze Arts, Crafts & Music Festival. 

My trip was also packed with scenic hikes in the Ozark National Forest, boat rides on Table Rock Lake and the Lake of the Ozarks, exploring Eureka Springs’ offbeat charm, and soaking in the Buffalo National River’s autumn beauty! 

• Location: the region stretches across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and the southeastern corner of Kansas in central-southern United States
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• 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 boutique Shawnee Bluff Winery.

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

I was charmed by this coastal beauty on my fall break — warm sunshine, the famous fog lifting to reveal stunning views, quieter streets after summer’s rush, and a lively calendar of local events.

I discovered fairy-tale cottages, white-sand beaches, and cypress-dotted cliffs overlooking the Pacific and a wonderful whimsical and romantic, which mixed artsy village charm and a breezy coastal elegance.

After a stunning six-hour Highway One drive from Los Angeles, I spent four blissful days at the heavenly Tickled Pink Inn — walking its beach at sunset, exploring Ocean Avenue’s shops and galleries, hiking Point Lobos’ jaw-dropping trails, and watching blue and humpback whales (the season lasted from April to November)!

• Location: California’s central coast, western United States
• Map Location
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• 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 richly caramelized French toast dripping with maple syrup and flaky housemade croissants were divine!

13. Bend, Oregon

This lively outdoor city won me over in September, when sunny, mild weather, lower room rates, and the first flashes of fall color from aspens and maples made exploring irresistible.

I was really taken with its snow-capped volcanic peaks, pine forests, and the winding Deschutes River flowed through the lively mountain town. It felt active and outdoorsy, with a laid-back craft beer culture and plenty of mountain-town charm.

There was also lots of local harvest events and craft beer festivals which I thought added an awesome seasonal vibe! The fun Oregon Whiskey Festival, the lively Cascade Equinox Festival and the Sisters Folk Festival all took place this month! 

My three-hour drive from Portland led to a five-day stay at the funky McMenamins Old St. Francis School, where I hiked Shevlin Park’s golden trails, kayaked and paddle-boarded the Deschutes, and ventured into Newberry’s lava caves.

I also biked the stunning, tree-lined Phil’s Trail, then wrapped up with a pint at the laid-back Crux Fermentation Project — the citrusy River Refresher IPA instantly became my go-to!

• Location: Pacific Northwest region of the western United States
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• 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 cute hand-crafted heart lockets!

14. Kenai Fjords, Alaska

I loved visiting this stunning national park in September — I encountered cool, comfortable days, fewer crowds, a glowing alpine tundra, active whales and sea otters, and one last chance to cruise past tidewater glaciers before winter’s closure.

It felt wild, untamed, and remote and I was in awe of the towering tidewater glaciers, rugged fjords, and icy waters which were teeming with wildlife.

After a breathtaking three-hour train ride from Anchorage to Seward, I spent five days at the waterfront Harbor 360 Hotel, sailing to Holgate and Aialik glaciers and watching sea otters, puffins, and humpbacks in their wild element.

I also tackled the stunning Harding Icefield Trail, paddled icy fjords to get right up to the glaciers, and explored Seward’s picturesque harbor dotted with welcoming craft shops.

• Location: south-central coast of Alaska, in the far northwestern part of the United States
• Map Location
• 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 an avocado and chickpea smash wrap washed down with an ice-cold, locally brewed Puffin Pale Ale while gazing out to sea!

15. Zion National Park, Utah

Visiting this dramatic park in mid-September meant warm but comfortable hiking temps, blissfully thinner crowds, and the first touches of fall color painting the red rock landscapes — perfect for adventure and photography! 

After a lively weekend in Las Vegas, I drove three hours to Springdale and spent three amazing days — first enjoying rustic-chic comfort at Cable Mountain Lodge, then camping inside the park for an immersive wilderness stay.

I tackled Angels Landing and The Narrows minus the summer crowds, admired fall color on the Emerald Pools Trail, joined engaging ranger talks, and enjoyed breezy drives through Zion and Kolob Canyons.

• Location: southwestern part of United States
• Map Location
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 32°C

My highlights…

• Pitching my REI Co-op Half Dome at Watchman Campground, I woke each morning to imposing red rocks, the warm scent of juniper, and stunning views of Watchman Peak!

16. Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii

I spent a dreamy, warm fall break here and found September to be the perfect time to explore this rugged, remote stretch of Kauai’s north shore!

Warm, dry weather and calm seas made for perfect boat tours, kayaking, and scenic hikes and quieter crowds let me soak up the wild tropical vibes and savor the coast’s cliffs, hidden beaches, and dramatic scenery in peace!

My 10-day Kauai escape began at Lihue Airport and the romantic 4-star Hanalei Colony Resort, with the lively Kauaʻi Mokihana Festival, Kalalau Trail hikes to Hanakāpīʻai Falls, an incredible helicopter tour of the coast, and snorkeling at the remote Nualolo Kai and the reef-fringed Tunnels Beach being my highlights!

• 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
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• 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 smoky, herb-marinated grilled portobello steak topped with caramelized onions and paired with a frosty coconut cream Sneaky Tiki cocktail was heaven!

17. Beaufort, South Carolina

I visited this historic coastal town in September, when the heat and crowds had eased, the weather was perfect for waterfront strolls, and off-peak hotel deals made it even better! 

I adored the mossy oak canopies, pastel-hued historic homes, and shimmering tidal waterways dotted with shrimp boats and its slow, storybook charm!

After landing at Savannah/Hilton Head and a short 45-minute drive, I settled into the elegant and romantic 4-star Rhett House Inn for five days of Beaufort bliss — historic district walks, kayaking still Spanish Moss waters, a dolphin tour, and hearty Southern waterfront dining.

• Location: southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Average September temperature – 21°C to 29°C

My highlights…

• Dining on fried green tomatoes with tangy remoulade perched atop crunchy crostini while gazing at river views on the patio of the popular Plums Restaurant!

18. Saugatuck – Douglas, Michigan

I thought this charming lakeside city shone in September — quiet after summer, warmly sunny, and touched with a tinge of early fall color that made it feel like the perfect low-key escape!

I fell for its artsy, easygoing vibe and scenery which mixed golden Lake Michigan beaches, rolling sand dunes, and tree-lined streets dotted with colorful cottages and blooming gardens.

I also found out there were some really buzzy events on including the cool Saugatuck Film Fest and the fun Lakeshore Harvest Ride.

I drove 2.5 hours from Chicago for a long weekend at the romantic 4-star Wickwood Inn — relaxing on Oval Beach, climbing Mount Baldhead which had jaw-dropping lake views, riding the historic Chain Ferry along the Kalamazoo River, and soaking up early fall color on a fun Saugatuck Dune Ride.

• Location: Midwestern United States
• Map Location
• Average September temperature – 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

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

19. Wallace, Idaho

I loved beginning my fall mini-break here, where September brought clear, dry skies, mild weather, early fall hues, and a peaceful, affordable charm just ahead of winter.

I ended up being really won over by the quirky, old-time vibe and picturesque Idaho scenery which was a gorgeous mix of forested mountain slopes, rugged peaks, and a charming historic downtown nestled in a lush valley.

My long weekend began with a Spokane flight and 90-minute drive to the rustic-chic Brooks Hotel, where I biked the scenic Route of the Hiawatha, explored the interesting Sierra Silver Mine, strolled Wallace’s charming historic district, and scored cool, vintage gems at the Under the Freeway Flea Market.

My favorite highlights…

• Cycling the 15-mile Hiawatha Trail — pedaling through the eerie, pitch-black, and damp 1.66-mile Taft Tunnel with water dripping from the stone ceiling made me grateful for my ultra-bright headlamp!

20. Dauphin Island, Alabama

I loved my hot, sunny fall getaway to this small barrier island — I loved the warm Gulf waters, pleasant breezes, quiet beaches, and peak bird migration!

I was won over by its relaxed, small-town coastal charm, sugar-white beaches, windswept dunes, salt marshes which were teeming with birds, and serene ocean.

I found out that September fun included the lively, family-friendly Massacre Island Pirate Invasion reenactment and The Headless Pirate of Dauphin Island, a hilarious dinner theater at the community center.

I flew into Mobile Regional, drove 50 minutes south over the Gordon Persons Bridge, and spent a blissful week at the beachfront Sandy Seaclusion on Dauphin Island — birdwatching at the Audubon Sanctuary, exploring Fort Gaines, lounging on quiet Gulf beaches, and kayaking in Pelican Bay.

• Location: southeastern United States, off the southern coast of Alabama in the Gulf of Mexico
• Map Location
• Average September temperature – 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 bottlenose dolphins playing in the water!

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