(opening)
As we bid farewell to the summer months and welcome the crisp air and fall foliage of autumn, many return home from their summer getaways. And that’s exactly why it’s the perfect time to plan a trip to the best places to visit in September in USA. With kids going back to school and adults returning to their offices, the vacation rush is waning fast. As such, popular vacation spots, from national parks to places with beaches, are less crowded. Prices for flights, accommodations, dining, and excursions start dropping around this time as well.
So, if you’re wondering where to travel in September, look no further. Whether you’re looking for quick, cheap weekend getaways or a well-deserved two-week vacation, here are the best places to travel in the U.S. in September.
1. Los Angeles, California
[caption id="attachment_134659" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Matthew LeJune on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 64.4 °F and high of 82.2 °F;
Precipitation: 0.12"
Things to do in Los Angeles, California in September: Lounging by the beach and visiting all the best Los Angeles attractions.
From visiting the impressive collection of museums in L.A. to spending a day at Disneyland, you’ll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, California with kids. Thus, it’s certainly among the best places to visit in September in the U.S.A. for families. The City of Angels is abuzz all year round, but September means summer tourists have headed home, ensuring fewer crowds at top attractions. And since the weather remains warm and sunny, outdoor activities such as lounging by the beach, going on a day trip to nearby places, biking, and hiking are always a possibility. For planning other trips, consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy.
2. Chicago, Illinois
[caption id="attachment_134732" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo on Commons Wikimedia[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 61.2 °F and high of 71.1 °F
Precipitation: 3.23"
Things to do in Chicago, Illinois in September: Take part in the assortment of festivals throughout the month.
Chicago offers some of the best fall vacations in the US for festival goers. The whole month is booked with events you can attend, like the annual World Music Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, and other live music fests. Film festivals like the Horror Film Fest, as well as culinary events like the Chicago Gourmet, are also popular. The September festival season is also a great time for a comfortable stroll through the Riverwalk or a cruise down Lake Michigan.
While you're in Chicago, rent an apartment at Hyde Park Kenwood Historic District.
Address: 5339 5345 S Woodlawn Ave 60615 Apartments Chicago Il
3. San Francisco, California
[caption id="attachment_134669" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Sasha • Stories on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 56.7 °F and high of 73.2 °F
Precipitation: 0.08"
Things to do in San Francisco, California in September: Sightseeing and going on cruises along the Bay area.
San Francisco, California is one of the best places to visit in September thanks to its warm and sunny weather and the dwindling summer crowd. The most popular San Francisco attractions are the San Francisco Zoo and all the nightlife spots in Downtown San Francisco.
San Francisco is also the best place to travel in September if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. Among the romantic things to do in San Francisco during this month is taking a romantic sunset cruise down the bay. Furthermore, with the San Francisco fog clearing, visitors are treated to an unobstructed view of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
[caption id="attachment_134658" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by imustbedead on Pexels[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 70.2 °F and high of 87.4 °F
Precipitation: 0.51"
Things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada in September: Attend Labor Day weekend celebrations and other events.
September brings warm and sunny days to Las Vegas, but without summer’s humidity. The welcoming weather makes it a great time for outdoor activities and visiting the plethora of Las Vegas attractions. Some of the fun things to do in Las Vegas range from attending pool parties, watching spectacular live shows, and trying your luck at one of the casinos on the Vegas Strip.
Searching for the best September vacation spots to celebrate Labor Day weekend? You certainly can’t go wrong with a Vegas trip! Sin City is bursting with incredible events, shows, and parties! Meanwhile, if you’re looking to wind down from all the excitement, why not add a trip to one of the top 10 National and State parks to see near Las Vegas to your itinerary of fun things to do with friends?
5. Seattle, Washington
[caption id="attachment_134680" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo from Washington State Fair’s official Facebook page[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 50.5 °F and high of 69.6 °F
Precipitation: 0.28"
Things to do in Seattle, Washington in September: Labor Day and other family-friendly celebrations.
Seattle, Washington is renowned for its Labor Day celebrations. The weekend festivities at Seattle Center feature live music, dance, theater performances, and visual art showcases. Traveling with the family? The city’s Labor Day programs are curated for all ages. You can also visit the Seattle Art Museum in Downtown Seattle or the Space Needle near Uptown. Planning a day trip from Seattle? Stop by the Washington State Fair in Puyallup. Starting September 2nd through the 25th, children can pet farm animals, go on rides, and pedal miniature tractors.
6. San Diego, California
[caption id="attachment_134668" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by frank mckenna on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 65.1 °F and high of 76.6 °F
Precipitation: 0.39"
Things to do in San Diego, California in September: Surfing season, San Diego Restaurant Week, and San Diego Blues Festival.
With its lively downtown scene, expansive parks, miles of sandy beaches, and temperate weather all year round, San Diego is an ideal getaway destination for many. This coastal city in California is also among the best places to visit in September in USA if you’re looking to immerse in the surf culture. You can even witness canine friends riding some waves!
Besides these, things to do in San Diego during September include attending one of the many arts, culture, and culinary festivities. Enjoy some blues music at San Diego Blues Festival in downtown San Diego. Marvel at masterpieces by budding artists during the San Diego Festival of the Arts. Meanwhile, foodies can explore the city’s diverse and thriving food scene during San Diego Restaurant Week.
7. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
[caption id="attachment_134650" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Sam Loyd on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 39 °F and high of 97 °F
Precipitation: 1.99"
Things to do in Grand Canyon, Arizona in September: Visit popular sites like the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Havasu Falls, Mather Point, and Desert View Drive.
Not only is the Grand Canyon one of the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the U.S, but it’s likewise considered one of the Wonders of the World. Visiting the park in September allows you more leeway to explore popular attractions and hiking trails. Particularly, the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, which is usually packed with people, sees fewer tourists during this month. For those planning a broader trip, our top 10 National and State parks to see includes further options.
8. San Antonio, Texas
[caption id="attachment_134667" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo from San Antonio Zoo official website[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 71.6 °F and high of 89.1 °F
Precipitation: 3.39"
Things to do in San Antonio, Texas in September: Early Halloween celebration at family-friendly attractions.
A family vacation to San Antonio in September is the best way to welcome the fall. At SeaWorld San Antonio, you can taste beers from different parts of the world during Bier Fest, while your little ones can go trick-or-treating and pumpkin painting during the park’s Halloween Spooktacular festivities. Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park also jump-starts its own Halloween festivities with haunted houses and scare zones bringing thrills to guests. The San Antonio Zoo celebrates Halloween early as well, but without the scares — just good-ole trick-or-treating and pumpkin picking.
A slew of events at the San Antonio Botanical Garden also takes place in September from weekly story time in the gardens for children to food events that celebrate carbonated drinks with plenty of live entertainment. Other must-visit landmarks in San Antonio during September include the Alamo and the Legoland Discovery Center, which see a reduced number of guests thanks to the start of the school semester.
9. North Carolina
[caption id="attachment_134663" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Alistair Nicol on Flickr[/caption]
Precipitation: 0.12"
Things to do in North Carolina in September: A road trip across the state.
Make the most out of your September vacation by going on a road trip across one of the most beautiful states in the US. Its diverse ecological landscapes paired with its rich culture and history, North Carolina offers plenty of activities all year long. Come September, you don’t have to worry about bumping shoulders while visiting the state’s top attractions.
We recommend a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway to witness the beauty of its fall colors, and a picnic by the beach lounging by the shores of the Outer Banks. For those who enjoy tranquility amongst the scenery, marvel at the opulence of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. For a broader perspective on America’s natural beauty, check our top 10 National and State parks to see.
10. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
[caption id="attachment_134674" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Shannon Dizmang on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 37 °F and high of 67.8 °F
Precipitation: 1.3"
Things to do in Yellowstone National Park in September: Spot bears, raptors, and other wildlife. Last chance for fishing and boating.
September is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park for families who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Hike the many trails and witness the Grand Prismatic Spring with fewer crowds. The month marks the beginning of the elk rutting season, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. Black and grizzly bears are often seen in roadside meadows. Bring binoculars to catch the raptor migration in Hayden Valley. September is also your last chance to fish and boat, as many rivers and lakes close by mid-September. For more outdoor inspiration, see our top 10 National and State parks to see.
11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
[caption id="attachment_134661" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by PublicDomainPictures on Pixabay[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 71.4 °F and high of 81.7 °F
Precipitation: 3.35"
Things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in September: Head to the beach or water parks, hit a hole-in-one at one of the golf courses, and spend a day at the boardwalk.
This is perfect as a post-summer beach holiday with plenty of all-inclusive and discounted deals on accommodations, attractions, and restaurants. The weather is balmy enough for a swim at one of the best beaches in the US or a day at the city’s water parks, but cool enough that it isn’t stifling. And you can’t visit the “Golf Capital of the World” without playing a round at their award-winning golf courses. You can also take your Myrtle Beach adventure to the sky when you ride the SkyWheel, a Ferris wheel soaring 200 feet above the city’s sandy shores along the famous boardwalk.
12. New York City, New York
[caption id="attachment_134662" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Sudan Ouyang on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 62.2 °F and high of 74.8 °F
Precipitation: 2.44"
Things to do in New York City in September: Attend cultural and art events.
Drawing in millions of visitors year-round, New York City is one of the most visited places in the US. It is home to the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, and the Statue of Liberty. So if you’re looking for the best places to visit in September in USA, a trip to the City That Never Sleeps is a solid choice.
September welcomes some of New York City’s most revered art and cultural events like the New York City Ballet, Metropolitan Opera, and New York Fashion Week. Witness the tail-end of the annual Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater in Manhattan's Central Park. For dining, you can also secure a reservation at Rao's NYC, a famously exclusive Italian spot.
13. Maui, Hawaii
[caption id="attachment_134660" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Subtle Cinematics on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 72 °F and high of 87 °F
Precipitation: 0.8"
Things to do in Maui, Hawaii in September: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and spending a day at the beach.
On the hunt for the best tropical places to travel to in September? Consider taking a trip to Maui, Hawaii, a bucket list destination thanks to its world-class beaches and lush rainforests. That said, Maui is among the best Hawaii islands to stay at if you’re looking for the best beaches in September.
Some of the best things to do in Maui in September include jumping off Black Rock at Ka’anapali Beach, marveling at the ancient 60-feet banyan tree at Lahaina, snorkeling, and scuba diving. On the whole, the island is among the best vacation destinations in the world.
14. Salt Lake City, Utah
[caption id="attachment_134666" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo from Red Butte Garden official Facebook page[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 52.7 °F and high of 73.2 °F
Precipitation: 0.35"
Things to do in Salt Lake City in September: Take part in Labor Day weekend celebrations, FanX comic convention, and other events.
As temperatures begin to drop, Salt Lake City in September offers more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing and visiting famous attractions, such as the Salt Lake Temple, Natural History Museum of Utah, and Heritage Park. You can also visit Red Butte Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in the state. During September, it is bathed in hues of reds, pinks, and purples from flourishing floras—a backdrop for picnics or romantic strolls.
Other September events and activities to add to your list of things to do in Salt Lake City include the city’s Labor Day weekend celebrations and FanX, the city’s pop culture and comic convention. Salt Lake City is also among the cheap places to travel in the US since the most popular attractions are open to the public for free.
15. Zion National Park, Utah
[caption id="attachment_134676" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Kristina Wagner on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 60.3 °F and high of 91 °F
Precipitation: 1.04"
Things to do in Zion National Park in September: Hiking popular trails and overlooks.
Late September is the best time to visit Zion National Park. As summer and monsoon season lets up, temperatures dip and rains subside, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Fewer crowds mean easier access to popular hiking trails like Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook. Horseback riding, camping, and a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel tunnel are also popular. Facilities including visitor centers, shuttle buses, and the Human History Museum remain operational. For more inspiration, check out our top 10 National and State parks to see.
16. Walt Disney World, Florida
[caption id="attachment_134673" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Anthony H. on Flickr[/caption]
Precipitation: 5.98"
Things to do in Walt Disney World in September: Attend the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
Walt Disney World is among the best places to visit in the US for families. In September, slimmer crowds guarantee less waiting time for popular rides and attractions like the Jungle Cruise, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Peter Pan’s Flight. There are also higher chances of getting good seats at theater shows like the Festival of the Lion King at the Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Another highlight includes the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, where you can sample foods and beverages from different parts of the globe.
17. Glacier National Park, Montana
[caption id="attachment_134649" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Tim Lumley on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 45 °F and high of 57 °F
Precipitation: 12.4″
Things to do in Glacier National Park in September: Spot active wildlife and make the most out of the fishing and boating season.
Boasting 700 miles of trails leading to glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and pristine lakes, Glacier National Park is a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts in September. Cooler temperatures create comfortable weather for hiking or horseback riding around Lake McDonald. September is a perfect time for wildlife spotting: bighorn sheep and mountain goats are often seen on the west side, while grizzly bears are common along the east side. Fishing and boating season is in full swing at St. Mary Lake, Two Medicine Lake, and parts of Flathead Lake. For a broader perspective, this park is a highlight in any top 10 National and State parks to see list.
18. Yosemite National Park, California
[caption id="attachment_134675" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Jeffrey Keenan on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 46.8 °F and high of 83.5 °F
Precipitation: 0.66"
Things to do in Yosemite National Park in September: Take advantage of all trailheads, campsites, and roads that are still open.
When is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park? Definitely, September. This park is nestled within California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the beauty of Yosemite is a sight to behold thanks to its cascading waterfalls, tall granite cliffs, and giant sequoia trees. All areas of the park, including all hiking trails, roads, and campgrounds, remain open throughout this month. Want to try rock climbing up to the Half Dome? Be sure to secure a permit beforehand since only 300 hikers are allowed up the trail each day during the month. Other outdoor activities like backpacking and stream and river fishing are likewise still possible.
19. Big Sur, California
[caption id="attachment_134640" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 55.4 °F and high of 69.6 °F
Precipitation: 0.08"
Things to do in Big Sur in September: Marine wildlife spotting.
As peak season ends, the region quiets down for a more laid-back atmosphere. Spend a day at beaches like Sand Dollar, Pfeiffer, and Willow Creek. September also welcomes back migrating blue whales, humpbacks, orcas, and other marine life into the coastal waters. For more animal interactions, visit the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to see sea lions and seals.
20. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
[caption id="attachment_134654" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by daveynin on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 63 °F and high of 84 °F
Precipitation: 3.2″
Things to do in Hot Springs National Park in September: Soak in hot springs, take a scenic drive, and try camping.
Located a few miles from Little Rock, Hot Springs National Park is an underrated vacation spot. It features historic bathhouse buildings showcasing Gilded Age architecture, with relaxing thermal waters that made it a top US destination.
With warm to mild temperatures in early fall, September is ideal for hiking, a scenic drive up Hot Springs Mountain Drive, or camping under the stars. Kids can enjoy hands-on science at the Mid-America Science Museum. For those exploring the region, the mysteries inside Arkansas' Devil's Den offer another intriguing nearby adventure.
21. Colorado Springs, Colorado
[caption id="attachment_134646" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Ian McMorran on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 48.2 °F and high of 70.9 °F
Precipitation: 1.3"
Things to do in Colorado Springs in September: Witness the hot air balloon festival and harvest celebrations.
Looking for the best weekend trips in the US? From rock climbing and horseback riding to cooling off at the Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park, you’ll never run out of activities in Colorado Springs. Located in the Pikes Peak Region, it is home to museums, zoos, parks, and other attractions for families and couples. During Labor Day Weekend, hot air balloons take to the sky. On the last weekend of September, indulge in artisan wine and food during the annual Harvest Festival.
22. Acadia National Park, Maine
[caption id="attachment_134636" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Gary Brownell on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 51 °F and high of 67 °F
Precipitation: 3.4"
Things to do in Acadia National Park in September: Try whale watching, swimming in Echo Lake, and riding carriages along Eagle Lake Trail.
Acadia National Park on Maine’s Mount Desert Island is a gem of the East Coast. It’s home to Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain along the North Atlantic seaboard, with towering sea cliffs, granite mountains, and pristine lakes. Early to mid-September is the best time to visit as crowds lull and temperatures dip, making it a top pick for whale-watching.
23. Charleston, South Carolina
[caption id="attachment_134644" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by digidreamgrafix on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 73 °F and high of 83.5 °F
Precipitation: 5"
Things to do in Charleston in September: Take last-minute beach trips, visit farmers' markets, and try southern food.
Charleston locals argue September is an extension of summer thanks to the warm and sunny weather. Many hit up nearby beaches and piers, like Folly Beach and Mount Pleasant, to soak up last-minute sun. Besides a final beach trip, things to do include attending one of the many culinary and music festivals in the area. Don’t forget the weekly farmers’ market at historic Marion Square for local produce and goodies. And what’s a trip to the South without indulging in hearty Southern dishes? Shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and good-ole fried chicken are just some of the soul food items to try.
24. South Padre Island, Texas
[caption id="attachment_134652" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Oliver Schweizer on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 80.4 °F and high of 86.2 °F
Precipitation: 4.13"
Things to do in South Padre Island in September: Horseback riding, zip lining, and mini-golfing.
September is among the best months to visit Texas’ only tropical destination. South Padre Island offers some of the best weekend trips in the US for families thanks to its plethora of activities the whole family can enjoy, from building sand castles by the shore to hitting the rides at a water park. Alternatively, go horseback riding, zip lining, play mini golf, and meet barn critters at the Island Adventure Park. With crowds thinning, you can find discounted and all-inclusive deals in September.
25. Flagstaff, Arizona
[caption id="attachment_134648" align="alignnone" width="1023"]
Photo by Coconino NF Photography on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 53.8 °F and high of 75.2 °F
Precipitation:0.98"
Things to do in Flagstaff in September: Attend arts and crafts festivals, Festi Coconino County Fair, and Cornucopia celebrations. Stargazing at Lowell Observatory.
Flagstaff offers plenty of things to do in Arizona during September. Early in the month, experience the arts and crafts festival in the downtown area that showcases the works of local artists. Come the last weekend of the month, welcome in fall during the Cornucopia celebrations that feature fall-themed attractions and carnival rides. As summer draws to a close, it’s a great time for stargazing as well, especially in Flagstaff. The city’s skies during the month provide the perfect conditions for spotting planets and constellations. Head over to the Lowell Observatory and be part of evening stargazing tours.
26. Lake Placid, New York
[caption id="attachment_134657" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Photo from Lake Placid ADK official Instagram page[/caption]
Precipitation: 2.28"
Things to do in Lake Placid in September: Join the annual marathon, Oktoberfest, and Annual Festival of Colors.
September sees a gentle lull of visitors at Lake Placid, with over 80 events taking place. Highlights include the annual marathon around Mirror Lake, the Whiteface Mountain Oktoberfest, and the Annual Festival of Colors. It’s among the best places to witness fall colors; a gondola ride to the top of Whiteface Mountain offers a spectacular view. Visiting in September means most businesses and attractions are still open, like the John Brown Farm State Historic Site.
27. Olympic National Park, Washington
[caption id="attachment_134665" align="alignnone" width="750"]
Photo by katie.qt on Instagram[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 47.5 °F and high of 68.5 °F
Precipitation: 1.77"
Things to do in Olympic National Park in September: Hike through the rainforest and coasts.
Boasting unparalleled vistas, Olympic National Park is even more beautiful during September. Rainforests are lush, streams and rivers are swimming with salmon, and beaches are peaceful. Even popular spots such as the Hoh Rainforest, Lake Crescent, and Kalaloch Beach see a reduced number of visitors around this time. September is also a great time to see tide pools and go on coastal hikes. The park is situated in Port Angeles within the Puget Sound, just two hours away from Seattle. From the city, you can travel by car, bus, or ferry, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle.
28. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
[caption id="attachment_134643" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo from Carmel by the Sea official Facebook page[/caption]
Precipitation: 0.08"
Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea in September: Wine tasting, beach camping, and birdwatching.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the must-visit places in the US. Dramatic coastlines, a burgeoning wine scene, stunning architecture, and quaint boutiques define this idyllic town. September brings clear, sunny days with cool nights and shorter daylight, ideal for bonfires at Pebble Beach and misty morning strolls. Wine tasting, shopping, sightseeing, and birdwatching are key activities.
29. Cape May, New Jersey
[caption id="attachment_134642" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by mbtrama on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 67.8 °F and high of 73.4 °F
Precipitation: 2.6"
Things to do in Cape May in September: Try water sports, join day tours through the historic district, and attend the city’s annual food and wine celebrations.
Another top place for a final beach holiday in Cape May. Its location near Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean makes it a great spot for marine life spotting, particularly dolphin and whale watching. But there’s so much more to this seashore town.
If you love history, touring the historic district reveals Victorian-era buildings and the Harriet Tubman Museum, which tells the life of the American abolitionist. Food and wine enthusiasts will enjoy the annual Cape May Food and Wine Celebration.
30. Burlington, Vermont
[caption id="attachment_134641" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Onasill - Bill Badzo on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 49.3 °F and high of 69.1 °F
Precipitation: 1.18"
Things to do in Burlington, Vermont in September: Lake boating, biking, and wandering along Church Street Marketplace.
There’s no shortage of activities in Vermont’s Burlington when September temperatures drop and winds turn crisp. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise between the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain. Go on scenic boat tours, take leisurely strolls or bike rides along Waterfront Bike Path, or cast a line and reel in your catch. Don’t forget to stop by Church Street Marketplace and browse four blocks of boutiques, restaurants, and pubs.
31. Beaufort, South Carolina
[caption id="attachment_134638" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Susan Smith on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 72.5 °F and high of 85.1 °F
Precipitation: 2.28"
Things to do in Beaufort in September: Take part in street festivals, culinary conventions, and farmers' markets.
Film buffs may recognize the Spanish moss-draped scenery from the Academy Award-winning film Forrest Gump. September is a month of fun in the city, packed with street festivals and culinary conventions. More activities include shopping at seasonal farmers’ markets, playing at the city’s golf course, and walking the Beaufort Historic District.
32. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
[caption id="attachment_134651" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Kirk Thornton on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 58 °F and high of 78 °F
Precipitation: 3.1"
Things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains in September: Hiking, horseback riding, cycling, Oktoberfest in nearby cities.
Clear skies, low chances of rain, and pleasant daytime temperatures make September a great time to explore the Great Smoky Mountains. Hike the Appalachian Trail or Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, or go horseback riding on scenic park trails. Challenge yourself by climbing Clingmans Dome, which at 6,643 feet is the highest point in Tennessee. September is also your last chance to stroll the Cades Cove Loop Road on foot or by bicycle. For more ideas, consult our top 10 National and State parks to see.
A September trip means you can participate in events in nearby cities. Gatlinburg celebrates Oktoberfest At Ober and the Taste Of Autumn, while Pigeon Forge has its own festivities for car enthusiasts and fall harvest.
33. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
[caption id="attachment_134653" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Steve on Pixabay[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 35 °F and high of 68 °F
Precipitation: 1.1″
Things to do in Grand Teton National Park in September: Hiking, horseback riding, taking a scenic drive, and participating in water sports.
September is the last month to enjoy Grand Teton National Park before some facilities close for winter. Visitor centers, hiking and climbing trails along the mountain range, and campsites remain open and accessible. It’s also the final month for kayaking, fishing, and tubing on the Snake River, Jackson Lake, and other streams. All roads are still snow-free, ideal for horseback riding or a scenic drive.
34. Bar Harbor, Maine
[caption id="attachment_134637" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Amy Humphries on Unsplash[/caption]
Precipitation: 1.81"
Things to do in Bar Harbor in September: Whale-watching, tasting famous Maine lobster, and going on boat tours.
A trip to Bar Harbor is one of the best things to do in Maine. September offers the tail-end of whale-watching season, plus Maine’s lobster season, famous for lobster rolls. Thinning crowds make it a perfect time for museums, galleries, and boutiques along Main Street.
35. Dauphin Island, Alabama
[caption id="attachment_134647" align="alignnone" width="963"]
Photo from Dauphin Island official website[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 75 °F and high of 85.5°F
Precipitation: 4.57”
Things to do in Dauphin Island in September: Sightseeing, spending a day at the beach, and trying out water sports.
A hidden gem in Alabama, Dauphin Island is among the top places to visit in the US if your ideal vacation spot is a small town by the seaside. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find white sand beaches and clear blue waters on the west end of the island, as well as many furry friends running freely on this pet-friendly beach.
Inland areas are equally impressive, with ancient oak trees scattered around the island. Top attractions include Historic Fort Gaines, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Water sports are popular, particularly kayaking, paddle boarding, and deep-sea fishing.
36. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
[caption id="attachment_134671" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 69.6 °F and high of 76.3 °F
Precipitation: 0.12"
Things to do in the Berkshires in September: Attend the annual apple harvest and tour the highlands.
A road trip through Massachusetts wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Berkshires. It boasts idyllic landscapes featuring rolling hills, lush green lands, and pristine blue lakes. It’s home to a plethora of cultural and historic sights, ranging from botanical gardens to art museums.
The county is also renowned for its impressive collection of buildings boasting Gilded Age architecture. The unrivaled natural landscape of the Berkshires is particularly stunning around September when temperatures start to dip and the air turns crisp. Don’t miss out on the Lenox Apple Squeeze which celebrates the annual apple harvest with food, drinks, and a tour of the apple orchards.
37. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
[caption id="attachment_134672" align="alignnone" width="1000"]
Photo by David Kingham on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 82 °F and high of 96 °F
Precipitation: 0.12"
Things to do in Valley of Fire State Park in September: Hiking, picnicking, and camping.
Situated in the Mojave Desert near Lake Mead, Valley of Fire State Park is one of the state parks near Las Vegas, making it an ideal day trip from Sin City. The milder September weather suits outdoor activities across 40,000 acres of colorful sandstones, limestones, and red rocks. While hiking, enjoy a picnic with a view at the Seven Sisters sheltered grounds during the day. At night, set up camp at the campgrounds and relax under starry skies.
38. Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
[caption id="attachment_134655" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 77.9 °F and high of 86.2 °F
Precipitation: 2.17"
Things to do in Indian Rocks Beach in September: Beach activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and sunbathing.
Indian Rocks Beach may be smaller than most beach destinations, but it offers over two sandy miles of Gulf of Mexico shoreline with restaurants, gift shops, and surf shops. Popular activities include boating, fishing, and sunbathing. On land, float down a lazy river at the local water park or explore the Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve, which includes a designated dog park for leash-free roaming. A short drive from town leads to Clearwater Beach and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, featuring marine life exhibits that entertain young ones.
39. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
[caption id="attachment_134656" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
Photo by Diana K on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 43 °F and high of 55 °F
Precipitation: 9.7”
Things to do in Kenai Fjords National Park in September: Hiking, boat tours, and wildlife spotting.
On the hunt for the best places to visit in early September in the USA? Consider a trip to Alaska’s Kenai Fjords National Park. Alaska is one of the prettiest states in the US, with unparalleled scenery. Keep a lookout for brown and black bears, mountain goats, lynx, moose, and wolves that roam the park.
To dodge crowds, schedule your trip around the first week of September. It’s around this time that all facilities, like the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center and Exit Glacier Nature Center, and transportation services are still open. September is also your last chance to cruise the waters on a small boat tour before the winter closure. You get an up-close visual of glaciers and better chances of spotting marine creatures such as sea lions and sea otters.
40. North Cascades National Park, Washington
[caption id="attachment_134664" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by US Department of State on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature: Low of 39.2 °F and high of 60.8 °F
Precipitation: 2.52"
Things to do in North Cascades National Park in September: Hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
North Cascades National Park is among the Washington national parks that many consider one of the best vacation spots in the US. September offers the best weather for visiting the park, allowing you to experience everything the North Cascades has to offer. Hike through the Pacific Crest Trail, go fishing on Lake Chelan, or boat on Ross Lake. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and deer.
The Best Places to Visit in the USA During September
September is the perfect time to visit the best travel destinations in the US. Planning a trip around this month ensures milder temperatures, slimmer crowds, and discounted deals at all the best vacation spots in the US. Regardless if you want to visit bustling cities, laid-back small towns, have a final beach getaway, or wilderness excursion in the mountains, the country has it all!
