September offers a unique window for travel, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the charm of early fall. If you’re wondering “What is the Best Place To Travel To In September?”, SIXT.VN is here to guide you. This article highlights fantastic destinations perfect for September travel, from national parks boasting vibrant foliage to charming coastal towns with delightful festivals.
Our guide emphasizes diverse experiences, offering options for the solo traveler, families, and groups of friends. We’ll also cover essential travel tips, including how SIXT.VN’s services can make your trip seamless. Consider this your ultimate resource for uncovering the best September travel destinations, ensuring an unforgettable journey filled with scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous exploration, you’ll discover incredible vacation spots and travel inspirations.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park, Maine's serene coastline and granite peaks
Acadia National Park in September is an incredible experience. The summer crowds have diminished, leaving a tranquil atmosphere perfect for exploring. The weather remains mild, and the forests begin to display early fall colors, creating stunning scenic drives.
I recommend flying into Bangor International Airport, followed by a 1.5-hour drive. Allocate at least four days to fully appreciate the rugged cliffs, scenic drives, forested trails, and ocean views.
A highlight is catching the sunrise from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Hiking the Jordan Pond Path provides awesome views of the Bubbles, and cycling the historic Carriage Roads amidst autumn color is unforgettable. End your day with a warm popover and blueberry soda at the Jordan Pond House.
- Visitors Center Address: 25 Visitor Center Rd, Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island, ME 04609
- Location: North coast of the northeastern United States
- Vibe: Tranquil and nature-filled
- Established: 1916
- Size: Over 49,000 acres
- Average September temperature: 13°C to 21°C
Acadia National Park – Stunning fall foliage in a national park
Acadia National Park in Maine – A tranquil park setting with early autumn hues
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston in September is perfect. The intense summer heat is gone, the gardens and waterfront parks remain lush, peak-season crowds have thinned, and hotel rates are more affordable.
Fly into Charleston International Airport and dedicate five sunny days to explore. Relax on the warm beaches of Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach, wander the Historic District’s quaint cobbled streets, and admire the pastel houses on Rainbow Row.
Visit the family-friendly Magnolia Beauti-Fall Festival, the Boone Hall Fright Nights, and the vibrant MOJA Arts Festival. Don’t miss sampling okra soup, red rice, and benne wafers at the Charleston City Market.
- Address of visitors center: 375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
- Location: Southeastern coast of the United States
- Vibe: Laid-back and elegant
- Average temperature: 21°C to 29°C
Charleston South Carolina – A historic city with colorful buildings
Rainbow Row, Charleston, South Carolina – A charming street with vibrantly colored historic homes
Charleston in South Carolina – A picturesque port city with inviting architecture
3. New England
New England in September is ideal. The weather is warm, the summer crowds have dissipated, and fall foliage begins to emerge across the countryside, coastal towns, and mountain landscapes.
I recommend flying into Boston Logan and embarking on a 14-day road trip. Drive the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, explore Woodstock in Vermont, hike the Sunset Ridge Trail on Mount Mansfield, and lighthouse-hop along Maine’s coastline.
Don’t miss attending The Big E festival and sampling cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Also, take a ride on The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad’s Fall Foliage train.
- Visitors’s Office Address: 75 S Main St, Unit 7, PMB 81, Concord, NH 03301
- Location: Northeastern region of the country (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont)
- Vibe: A cozy, nostalgic blend of small-town charm and lively celebrations
- Average September Temperature: 16°C to 24°C
Montpelier, Vermont in the Fall – A charming town with vibrant fall foliage
New England Foliage – A stunning display of autumn colors across a landscape
4. Seattle, Washington
Visiting Seattle in September means mild, mostly dry weather, fewer crowds, affordable accommodations, and clear views of Mount Rainier.
Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and spend four days. Visit the Space Needle for city and mountain views, explore Pike Place Market, and see glass art at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Enjoy craft coffee in Capitol Hill and Fremont.
Consider attending the Washington State Fair, the Jackson Street Jazz Walk, and the Cider Summit.
- Visitors Center Address: 701 Pike Street; Suite 800. Seattle, Washington 98101
- Location: Northwestern part of the United States
- Vibe: Creative and laid-back
- Average September Temperature: 13°C to 21°C
Seattle Skyline – An iconic cityscape with the Space Needle
Pike Place Market Seattle – A bustling market with vibrant displays
Seattle Pumpkin Shop – A festive shop with a variety of pumpkins
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
A September break in Santa Fe offers warm weather, fewer crowds, great deals on lodging, and golden cottonwoods. The crisp mountain air enhances the historic adobe streets, open-air markets, and art galleries.
Fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), drive an hour northeast, and spend four days exploring. Discover immersive art at Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, wander Canyon Road, dine at Café Pasqual, and hike the Dale Ball Trails.
Experience the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta and the Burning of Zozobra.
- Visitors Center Address: 491 Old Santa Fe Trail Santa Fe, NM 87501
- Location: Southwestern part of the country
- Vibe: Warm, artistic, and fun
- Average September temperature: 13°C to 24°C
Santa Fe – A vibrant downtown area perfect for fall visits
Santa Fe Downtown – An inviting street with classic Southwestern architecture
Santa Fe, New Mexico – A picturesque scene with historic adobe buildings
6. The Adirondack Mountains
September is ideal for an Adirondack getaway, offering crisp air, diminished crowds, and landscapes glowing with early fall colors.
Drive five hours from New York City and stay at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort. Enjoy fiery foliage on trails at Cascade Mountain and Indian Head, kayak on Mirror Lake, and admire mountaintop views along the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway.
Avoid the black fly season (May to July) and attend the Adirondack Balloon Festival, the Lake George Jazz Festival, and the Adirondack Harvest Festival.
- Address of Visitors Center: I-87 N (Between Exits 17 & 18, Queensbury, NY 12804
- Location: Northeastern United States, in upstate New York
- Vibe: Peaceful and rustic
- Average temperature: 10°C to 21°C
Lake Placid Lodge Restaurant – A cozy lakeside dining area with scenic views
Lake Placid View from Lake Placid Lodge – A stunning vista of the lake and mountains
Golden Arrow Resort Lake Placid – A lakeside resort with a cozy lobby
7. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville in September has warm days and cool evenings, with early fall colors tinting the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city offers outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and beer festivals.
Fly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and stay for five days. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, explore Hendersonville, and visit orchards, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches.
Explore Asheville’s creative side in the River Arts District, sample craft beers at Wicked Weed and Highland Brewing, enjoy live folk music at The Orange Peel, and tour the Biltmore Estate.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
- Location: Southeastern part of USA
- Vibe: Lively and creative yet laid-back
- Average temperature: 21°C to 29°C
Biltmore, Asheville – A grand estate surrounded by lush gardens
Asheville Scenic Road – A winding road through vibrant fall foliage
8. Cape May, New Jersey
September offers awesome holiday vibes in Cape May. The ocean remains warm, summer crowds are gone, hotel rates drop, and beaches are quieter.
Drive three hours and spend a week at Congress Hall. Relax on Cape May’s beaches, sample fresh local food at Schellenger’s Landing, take a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, and browse Washington Street Mall.
Spot local wildlife, like monarch butterflies and migrating birds, and attend the Harvest Brew Fest and Country Harvest Festival.
- Address: New Jersey 08204
- Location: Northeastern United States
- Vibe: Peaceful and romantic
- Average September temperature: 18°C to 27°C
Cape May Shoreline – A serene beach with gentle waves
Cape May in New Jersey – A charming coastal town with Victorian architecture
Cape May – A picturesque street with quaint shops and Victorian homes
9. North Cascades National Park, Washington
Visiting North Cascades National Park in September means cool weather and vibrant alpine scenery. Golden larches and fiery foliage light up the landscape, perfect for peaceful hikes and wildlife spotting.
Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, drive 2.5 hours northeast, and enjoy a four-day escape. Cruise the North Cascades Highway, admire Diablo Lake, and hike the Maple Pass Loop.
Spot elk, mountain goats, and mule deer.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 376 Newhalem St, Marblemount, WA 98267
- Location: Northwestern part of the country
- Established: 1968
- Size: Over 500,000 acres
- Vibe: Serene and majestic
- Average September Temperature: 10°C to 21°C
North Cascades National Park – A pristine mountain landscape with clear blue waters
North Cascades National Park, Washington – A scenic view of mountains and turquoise waters
North Cascades National Park Mountain Goat – A mountain goat in its natural habitat
10. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs in September features sunny and mild weather, fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and golden aspens.
Fly into Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and stay for four days. Hike through fall foliage at North Cheyenne Cañon Park, ride the cog railway to Pikes Peak, and visit Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls.
Attend the Hispanic heritage Fiestas Patrias and Pawtoberfest.
- Visitors Center Address: 515 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
- Location: Western United States
- Vibe: Refreshing and adventurous
- Average September temperature: 13°C to 24°C
Colorado Springs – A vibrant cityscape with mountain views
Colorado Springs Downtown – A lively street scene with shops and restaurants
Colorado Springs Vista – A scenic overlook with a view of the city and mountains
11. Ozarks, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma
September is magical in the Ozarks, with early fall colors and seasonal festivals.
Fly into Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri and spend a relaxing fortnight. Hike in the Ozark National Forest, boat on Table Rock Lake and the Lake of the Ozarks, explore Eureka Springs, and enjoy fall colors along the Buffalo National River.
Attend the Original Ozark Folk Festival and the Autumn Daze Arts, Crafts & Music Festival.
- Address: Ozarks Regional Tourism office, located at 205 S. Commercial Street, Branson, MO 65616.
- Location: Central-southern United States (Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas)
- Vibe: Laid-back and outdoorsy
- Average September temperature: 18°C to 27°C
Lake Ozark in Ozarks – A serene lake surrounded by lush forests
Historic Alley Springs Mill in Ozark National Scenic Riverways – A historic mill surrounded by natural beauty
Lake Ozark – A scenic view of a lake with homes along the shoreline
12. Carmel-by-the-Sea, North California
Carmel-by-the-Sea in September is enchanting. The weather is warm and sunny, the fog lifts, there are fewer tourists, and local events fill the streets.
Drive two hours on Highway One and spend three days soaking up its charms. Enjoy romantic walks along Carmel Beach, explore Ocean Avenue, hike Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and spot whales.
Attend the Carmel International Film Festival and the Monterey Jazz Festival.
- Visitors Center Address: Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
- Location: California’s central coast, western United States
- Vibe: Peaceful, romantic, and artistic
- Average September temperature: 16°C to 21°C
Shops in Carmel by the Sea – Quaint shops with charming storefronts
Carmel Coastline USA – A breathtaking coastline with sandy beaches
Bixby Creek Bridge Bridge – An iconic bridge near Carmel
13. Bend, Oregon
September in Bend means sunny and mild weather, perfect for outdoor adventures, and lower lodging prices. See the first hints of fall foliage.
Take a three-hour drive from Portland and spend five unforgettable days. Hike in Shevlin Park, paddle-board on the Deschutes River, and explore lava caves at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
Bike Phil’s Trail and enjoy craft beer at Crux Fermentation Project.
- Visitors Center Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703
- Location: Pacific Northwest region of the western United States
- Vibe: A mix of urban cool and outdoorsy
- Average temperature: 16°C to 27°C
Bend Oregon Autumn – A scenic park with fall foliage
Smith Rock Sunrise in Bend Oregon – A breathtaking sunrise at Smith Rock State Park
14. Kenai Fjords, Alaska
September is fantastic for visiting Kenai Fjords. There are fewer crowds, the temperatures are comfortable, wildlife remains active, and the alpine tundra glows with fall colors.
Fly into Anchorage and take the train to Seward. Spend five days cruising past glaciers, spotting sea otters and whales.
Hike the Harding Icefield Trail, kayak through icy fjords, and explore Seward.
- Visitor Center Address: 1212 4th Avenue Seward, AK 99664
- Location: South-central coast of Alaska
- Vibe: Wild, remote, and awe-inspiring
- Average September temperature: 7°C to 13°C
Kenai Fjords, Alaska – A majestic glacier calving into the sea
Kenai Fjords, Alaska Whale – A humpback whale breaching in the fjords
Kenai Fjords, Alaska Seals – Seals lounging on ice floes
15. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park in September offers comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and early fall colors.
Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Springdale, Utah, and stay for three days. Hike Angels Landing and The Narrows in cooler conditions, spot fall colors along the Emerald Pools Trail, and enjoy scenic drives.
- Visitors Center Address: Zion National Park, 1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
- Location: Southwestern part of United States
- Vibe: Rugged and adventurous
- Average September temperature: 16°C to 32°C
Zion National Park in Utah – A dramatic canyon landscape with red rock formations
Zion National Park – A scenic river flowing through towering canyon walls
Zion National Park Mountain Views – Expansive mountain views within the park
16. Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
September is incredible for visiting the Na Pali Coast. The weather is warm and dry, ocean conditions are calm, and hiking trails are lush.
Fly into Lihue Airport on Kauai and stay for ten days at the Hanalei Colony Resort. Enjoy boat tours and kayaking, hike the Kalalau Trail, take a helicopter tour, and snorkel at Nualolo Kai and Tunnels Beach.
Attend the Kauaʻi Mokihana Festival.
- Address: Kauai Visitors Bureau, 4334 Rice Street, Lihue, HI 96766, United States
- Location: Kauai, Hawaiian Islands
- Vibe: Wild and remote
- Average September temperature: 24°C to 29°C
Na Pali Coast, Hawaii – Rugged cliffs meeting the ocean
Na Pali Coast Hawaii – Dramatic cliffs along a tropical coastline
17. Beaufort, South Carolina
Visiting Beaufort in September means the summer heat and crowds have eased, the weather is warm, and there are great off-peak deals.
Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, drive for 45 minutes, and stay for five days at the Rhett House.
Stroll through Beaufort’s historic district, kayak through the Spanish Moss Trail and Hunting Island State Park, enjoy a dolphin-spotting tour, and gorge on Southern cuisine at waterfront restaurants.
- Visitors Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
- Location: Southeastern United States
- Vibe: Relaxed and romantic Southern vibe
- Average September temperature: 21°C to 29°C
Donwtown Beaufort in South Carolina – A charming downtown street with historic buildings
Historic Mansion in Beaufort – A grand historic mansion with lush gardens
Beaufort in South Carolina – A picturesque waterfront with historic buildings
18. Saugatuck – Douglas, Michigan
September is perfect for exploring Saugatuck-Douglas. Summer crowds are gone, the weather is warm, and early fall colors add charm.
Drive 2.5 hours from Chicago and stay for a long weekend. Relax on Oval Beach, climb Mount Baldhead, cruise the Kalamazoo River, and gaze at fall colors on a Saugatuck Dune Ride.
Attend the Saugatuck Art in the Park, the Saugatuck Film Fest, and the Lakeshore Harvest Ride.
- Visitors Center Address: 95 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas, MI 49406
- Location: Midwestern United States
- Vibe: Relaxed, creative, and coastal
- Average September temperature: 16°C to 24°C
Saugatuck Michigan – A charming lakeside town with colorful buildings
Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan, USA – A scenic river flowing through a charming town
Saugatuck in Douglas – A picturesque view of a harbor with boats
19. Wallace, Idaho
September is wonderful for a mini-break in Wallace. Temperatures are pleasant, skies are clear, and early fall colors appear.
Fly into Spokane International Airport and drive 90 minutes east. Bike the Route of the Hiawatha, tour the Sierra Silver Mine, explore Wallace’s historic district, and browse finds at the Under the Freeway Flea Market.
- Visitor Center Address: River St Wallace Visitor Center, Wallace, ID 83873-2142
- Average temperature: 10°C to 21°C
Wallace Idaho Fall – A historic town nestled in the mountains with fall foliage
Downtown Wallace in Idaho – A quaint downtown street with historic buildings
Wallace Idaho Restaurant – A cozy restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere
20. Dauphin Island, Alabama
Enjoy a sunny vacation on Dauphin Island in September. The Gulf waters are warm, the weather is pleasant, the crowds have faded, and bird migration peaks.
Fly into Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), drive 50 minutes south, and stay for a week on Dauphin Island.
Spot birds at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, explore Fort Gaines, relax on Gulf beaches, and kayak in Pelican Bay.
Attend the Massacre Island Pirate Invasion and The Headless Pirate of Dauphin Island.
- Visitors Center Address: 109 Bienville Boulevard Mobile County 36528 Dauphin Island
- Location: Southeastern United States, off the southern coast of Alabama in the Gulf of Mexico
- Vibe: Peaceful and laid-back
- Average September temperatures: 24°C to 29°C
Dauphin Island, Alabama – A serene beach with calm turquoise waters
Dauphin Island in Alabama – A picturesque coastline with lush greenery
Dolphins, Dauphin Island – Dolphins playing in the waves
What Makes September a Great Time to Travel?
September is often considered an ideal month for travel due to several factors:
- Pleasant Weather: In many regions, September offers a sweet spot between the heat of summer and the chill of winter. The weather is often mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Fewer Crowds: With school back in session and the peak summer vacation season over, many popular destinations experience a decrease in tourist crowds during September. This can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience.
- Lower Prices: As demand decreases, prices for flights, accommodations, and tours often drop in September compared to the peak summer months. This can make travel more affordable.
- Fall Foliage: In certain regions, September marks the beginning of the fall foliage season. Travelers can witness stunning displays of autumn colors in forests and parks, enhancing the scenic beauty of their destinations.
- Festivals and Events: Many destinations host unique festivals and events in September, providing travelers with opportunities to experience local culture and traditions.
- Shoulder Season Benefits: September falls within the shoulder season for many destinations, offering a balance between good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
What are the Best International Destinations to Travel to in September?
September is a fantastic month for international travel, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a variety of cultural experiences. Here are some of the best international destinations to consider:
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Kyoto, Japan:
- Why September: Mild weather, fewer crowds than spring, and the beginning of autumn foliage.
- Things to Do: Visit ancient temples and gardens, experience traditional tea ceremonies, explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
- According to research from Japan National Tourism Organization, in 2023, Kyoto provides travelers with serene temples and beautiful landscapes.
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Tuscany, Italy:
- Why September: Warm weather, the grape harvest season, and fewer tourists than July and August.
- Things to Do: Explore vineyards, visit historic towns like Florence and Siena, enjoy Italian cuisine, and attend local festivals.
- According to research from The Italian National Tourist Board, in 2024, Tuscany provides the best culinary experiences.
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Barcelona, Spain:
- Why September: Sunny weather, pleasant temperatures, and the Festa Major de la Mercè festival.
- Things to Do: Explore architectural landmarks like Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, stroll along Las Ramblas, relax on Barceloneta Beach, and enjoy Catalan cuisine.
- According to research from Tourism of Spain, in 2022, Barcelona provides unique architectural experiences.
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Santorini, Greece:
- Why September: Warm and sunny weather, crystal-clear waters, and fewer crowds than the summer months.
- Things to Do: Watch sunsets in Oia, explore the villages of Fira and Imerovigli, relax on the beaches, and take a boat tour of the caldera.
- According to research from Greek National Tourism Organization, in 2023, Santorini provides beautiful ocean and sunset views.
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Munich, Germany:
- Why September: The start of Oktoberfest, a world-renowned beer festival.
- Things to Do: Enjoy beer and traditional Bavarian food at Oktoberfest, visit historical sites, and explore the city’s parks and gardens.
- According to research from German National Tourist Board, in 2024, Munich provides the best cultural food and drink experiences.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina:
- Why September: Springtime weather, cultural events, and the tango scene.
- Things to Do: Explore the historic neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca, visit the Recoleta Cemetery, watch a tango show, and enjoy Argentine cuisine.
- According to research from Argentina National Tourism Board, in 2022, Buenos Aires provides very exciting dance and music experiences.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands:
- Why September: Mild weather, the start of the cultural season, and fewer crowds than summer.
- Things to Do: Visit museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, explore the canals by boat, and enjoy the city’s parks and gardens.
- According to research from Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions, in 2023, Amsterdam provides very relaxing garden and art experiences.
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Marrakech, Morocco:
- Why September: Warm weather, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to experience Moroccan culture.
- Things to Do: Explore the Medina, visit the Djemaa el-Fna square, explore the souks, and relax in the Jardin Majorelle.
- According to research from Moroccan National Tourist Office, in 2024, Marrakech provides a great cultural shopping experience.
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Vancouver, Canada:
- Why September: Mild weather, outdoor activities, and the Vancouver International Film Festival.
- Things to Do: Explore Stanley Park, visit Granville Island Market, hike in the nearby mountains, and enjoy the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- According to research from Destination Canada, in 2022, Vancouver provides a beautiful mountain hiking experience.
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Cape Town, South Africa:
- Why September: The start of the wildflower season, pleasant weather, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Things to Do: Visit Table Mountain, explore the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, visit the penguins at Boulders Beach, and go on a safari
