👉 Jump directly to:Locations to stop by in September in the USA | Global destinations to visit in September | FAQ
I’m a travel expert who can steer you to the best places to visit in September, both in the USA and abroad.
Many of these domestic and international destinations were selected based on seasonal cultural events and timely activities taking place.
Discover the top spots for viewing changing leaves, Northern Lights displays, and celebrating fall harvests. I share options suitable for any preference, from major cities to remote national parks, and several hidden gems where you can make the most of the shoulder season.
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Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in September in the USA
Denver, Colorado
The city at mile-high elevation celebrates autumn through culinary and drink festivals and foliage viewing in nearby hills.
✈️ Travel arrangements to Denver | 🛎️ Accommodations in Denver| Location options | Places worth seeing | Activities | Dining
September incorporates one of the top times to go to Denver! Enjoy pleasant days and cool evenings, and admire fall colors on foothill hikes. Top city attractions like Larimer Square and Dairy Block see fewer visitors this time of the year.
Additionally, some of Colorado’s best festivals take place in September, like the Great American Beer Festival.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Beat the heat and summer crowds with a fall visit to the largest canyon in the USA.
✈️ Flights link to Flagstaff | 🛎️ Hotels link in Tusayan| Places to Visit link
I’ve hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back, which is not recommended during Arizona’s summer months with high temperatures. More moderate temperatures make any hike much more pleasant, whether you’re walking along the rim or descending to the canyon floor.
Grand Canyon Village is also less congested after Labor Day. In reality, you’ll encounter fewer crowds at most national recreation areas during this phase of the year!
Chicago, Illinois
Experience Chicago away from the extreme summer and winter temperatures by visiting in the fall.
✈️ Travel to Chicago | 🛎️ Accommodations in Chicago| Where you can stay | Activities to do | Eateries
A favorable moment to enjoy the scenic attractions of the Chicago lakeshore is in September as the humid weather finally subsides. Visit Navy Pier and admire the city`s architectural structures on a relaxing tour along the river. September is also a wonderful time to sit outside (preferably on a rooftop terrace!) at one of Chicago’s numerous bars, where you can take in the final sunrays of summer.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Relax in this coastal town dotted with lighthouses and charming seaside cottages.
✈️ Flight plans for Martha’s Vineyard | 🛎️ Accommodations in Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts is a summer vacation hotspot, indicating there will be fewer visitors once Labor Day concludes!
Spend time enjoying the après ski fun located in downtown Frisco, situated just 7 miles from Copper Mountain. On its charming main street, you’ll find an assortment of boutiques, gift shops, eateries, and bars. Two personal favorites are Highside Brewing and BBQ and Ein Prosit, a pub with a Bavarian style.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
This scenic park has a short visitor season — experience its grandeur before the weather turns!
✈️ Travels to Seattle | 🛎️ Lodgings in Ashford| Locations to Visit | Activities to Partake in
Children traveling internationally with one parent may need a notification stating permission to travel abroad. You may also want copies of kids’ medical records, prescriptions, or other information.
San Francisco, California
The fog normally covering the city lifts in September, a superb time to experience outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
- Best Budget Accommodations: The Cave • Bricks Cameron Highlands • Traveller Bunker Hostel • Alora Budget Inn • BED Station Guest House
The summer months are among the foggiest periods to explore San Francisco, therefore wait until September when the mist known locally as “Karl the Fog” finally dissipates. Schedule a bay cruise, explore the piers, and pose for an image where you can truly observe the Golden Gate Bridge in the backdrop.
Big Island, Hawai’i
Take advantage of lower prices and smaller crowds during Hawaii’s transitional season between summer and winter.
✈️ Flights to Kona | 🛎️ Lodgings in Kona
September falls within Hawai`i`s shoulder season, situated between the summer holidaymakers and individuals fleeing bitter winters! You`ll obtain reduced rates on the premium hotels and discounts on other amenities. You`ll also encounter less crowded beaches. Be certain to explore Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park for a fascinating glimpse into the volcanic undertaking that formed the islands.
Las Vegas, Nevada
✈️ Travel to Las Vegas | 🛎️ Accommodations in Las Vegas| Location to Remain | Activities to Engage in | Eateries
Not quite ready to say goodbye to summer? Average temperatures in Las Vegas stay in the upper 90s in September! Cool off in one of the many gorgeous hotel pools or venture out at night to enjoy incredible Vegas clubs. Shows, casino games, and other exciting attractions make up the entertainment capital of the world.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Enjoy time on the lake before the winter season, taking long bike rides and soaking up the sunsets.
✈️ Flights to Chippewa County | 🛎️ Accommodations on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is another place that empties after Labor Day. Visitors in September can enjoy summer weather for much of the month without peak season crowds. Spend a day touring quaint shops, take a carriage ride, or tour the island by bicycle.
New York City, New York
Take a boat tour of the harbor, enjoy an urban trail, and explore endless cultural sites.
✈️ Travel to New York City | 🛎️ Accommodations in New York City| Where to Remain | Eateries
New York City’s summer humidity starts to dissipate in September, so it’s a pleasant time to do lots of walking and sightseeing. Explore High Line Park and enjoy the numerous things to do in Central Park. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and several other iconic monuments and cultural attractions.
Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
Enjoy boating, hiking, and other lake activities with significantly fewer crowds.
✈️ Travel to Reno | 🛎️ Accommodations in Lake Tahoe| Places to Reside | Activities to Pursue
Tourists from Tahoe ordinarily depart like clockwork after Labor Day yearly. You can still swim in the lake in early September, contingent upon your tolerance for cooler temperatures! Boating is perpetually an enjoyable movement, as is hiking in one of California’s top mountain hamlets. California’s best mountain towns Additionally, sensational dining facilities and casinos in Nevada supplement the motivations behind visiting.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Admire fall foliage on hiking trails and along Going-to-the-Sun Road before frigid temps set in.
✈️ Travel to Kalispell | 🛎️ Accommodations in Kalispell
Fall is an ideal time to explore Glacier National Park as summer transitions to winter. September in particular offers delightful weather prior to the seasonal closing of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Visitors during this period may also catch vibrant foliage changing colors, which happens earlier in the year here than in many other areas. Hiking, paddling, and simply appreciating the natural scenery are recommended ways to spend time in the park as autumn arrives.
Moab, Utah
Explore two stunning national parks and other outdoor spaces when desert temperatures are more moderate.
✈️ Travel to Moab | 🛎️ Accommodations in Moab| Location to Remain | Areas to See | Activities to Partake
Average daytime temperatures in the town of Moab, the state of Utah decrease almost ten degrees from August to September, generally measuring a relaxing 88°F. Tourists head there in the fall for mountain biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, and other outdoor pastimes. Some of the best places for these activities are Arches and Canyonlands, two of Utah’s top federally protected land areas.
Sonoma County, California
Celebrate the harvest season at world-renowned wineries.
✈️ Flights to Sonoma County | 🛎️ Accommodations in Sonoma County| Places to Reside | Activities to Pursue
During the harvest season ranging from August to October in the Sonoma and Napa County vineyards—which really picks up in September—partaking in harvest tours can enlighten one on the journey from grape to distinguished vintages. Dining at an eatery emphasizing seasonal fall vegetables aligns with relishing regional fare. Additionally, festivals celebrating the season such as those located in the state of California offer an engaging cultural experience.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Appreciate the changing aspen trees while ambling around Santa Fe, replete with art galleries and boutiques.
✈️ Travel Options to Santa Fe | 🛎️ Lodging in Santa Fe| Places to Lodge | Activities to Pursue
Moderate temperatures and colorful aspens make September an excellent time of the year to stroll around Santa Fe, New Mexico. Stop by the Santa Fe Plaza and browse in and out of the surrounding boutiques and art exhibitions. Be sure to set aside time to explore Santa Fe attractions such as the Georgia O’Keefe Museum and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.
Coos Bay, Oregon
Dine on fresh seafood and browse boutique shops on this relaxing coastal getaway.
✈️ Flights to Coos Bay | 🛎️ Lodging in Coos Bay
Fewer crowds can be found along the coastal region come September, making it a superb time to explore Coos Bay in the US state of Oregon. This quaint seaside town is perfect for a weekend trip. Shoppers can browse art galleries or sample seafood at local eateries, one of the top activities to engage in within Oregon. Folks can also participate in the monthly downtown Coos Bay Wine Walk on the first Friday of each month.
Puerto Rico
Take a shoulder season trip to a tropical American territory.
✈️ Airline tickets to Puerto Rico | 🛎️ Accommodations in Puerto Rico| Location Options | Sites to See | Activities | Eateries
Summer visitors have departed and holiday travelers have yet to arrive, making September a good month for a last-minute trip to Puerto Rico!
Hotel website • Check prices for Claridge’s
Just be aware that September ordinarily sees the peak hurricane season in Puerto Rico, although a storm does not necessarily occur each year. But this implies if you’re willing to be flexible and book at the last minute, September can offer the most affordable time to visit Puerto Rico.
Best Places to Visit in September (International)
Munich, Germany
Celebrate Oktoberfest and enjoy fall in Bavaria.
✈️ Travel options to Munich | 🛎️ Accommodations in Munich
The festival with a misleading name starts in September instead of October! Journey to Munich to take part in the grand celebration and try German beers and cuisine. You can also explore Neuschwanstein Castle, watch the ticking clock on Marienplatz, and savor many other exclusive experiences.
Seoul, South Korea
Witness autumn colors in South Korea`s capital city during festivals held through September.
✈️ Flights to Seoul, South Korea | 🛎️ Accommodations in Seoul
Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has a bustling downtown area filled with people and activity, but those wanting to experience nature need only travel a short distance on the subway to find stands of trees displaying vivid autumn colors within Bukhansan National Park. In September, Seoul also hosts several art, music and cultural festivals, such as Taste of Seoul, allowing visitors to sample the city`s variety of culinary delights.
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Experience spring in the southern hemisphere when wildlife emerges at this scenic national park.
✈️ Flights to Queenstown | 🛎️ Hotels in Te Anau
Spring at Fiordland National Park in New Zealand still has a chill but provides an enjoyable change from a hot summer in the USA. It`s also when many animal babies are born and their parents wake from long hibernation. Watch penguins, seals, dolphins, and marine life becoming more active again.
Save time to explore the lakes and waterfalls that make this destination on New Zealand’s South Island worthwhile!
Vancouver, Canada
Take in the autumn foliage, go whale watching, and enjoy other unique experiences in this Canadian coastal city.
✈️ Transportation options to Vancouver | Accommodation in Vancouver | 🛎️ Places to stay in Vancouver
The weather conditions of September make Vancouver, Canada an excellent destination choice! You’ll likely experience daytime high temperatures in the 60s and cool nights that will remind you that winter is just around the corner.
Explore the city, embark on whale watching excursions, and take a day trip to Vancouver Island. Don’t neglect hiking the popular Grouse Mountain just before the snow moves in.
Dublin, Ireland
Roam around the city in comfortable temperatures and participate in an iconic festival.
✈️ Travel to Dublin | 🛎️ Accommodations in Dublin| Locations to Remain | Activities to Participate In | Eateries
During September, crowds are sparse and temperatures are moderate in Dublin, Ireland, making it an ideal time to visit. During this month, visitors can enjoy the Dublin Fringe Festival and comfortably explore different attractions mentioned on one`s Dublin itinerary. Possible activities include touring castles, relaxing in pubs, and taking in the Irish music scene.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Use the low tourism season as an opportunity to hike through mountainous terrain or take the train to Machu Picchu.
✈️ Travel to Cusco | 🛎️ Accommodations in Cusco
Machu Picchu is always going to have crowds, but you`ll find fewer tourists visiting in September. The rainy season has yet to move into the Andes Mountains by this time. Clear, sunny skies continue through at least mid-September, allowing guests to hike the multi-day Inca Trail or take the train to this globally significant historical site recognized by UNESCO.
Prague, Czech Republic
Appreciate architecture and attend a two-week classical music festival in this cultural city.
✈️ Travel to Prague | 🛎️ Lodging in Prague
Prague is one of the most excellent places to visit in September. It is renowned for its amazing architecture, which travelers can admire on walking tours through the city. The Dvořák International Prague Music Festival also occurs in September. See the city come alive during this biweekly cultural happening, which spotlights classical composers.
Bhutan
See stunning Buddhist temples and natural scenery at a lower cost starting this September.
If protective covering is needed, inspect Lydia’s assessment surveying multiple of the premier umbrellas for travel. Hint in advance: the Rain Mate umbrella emerged on top!
The daily fee imposed by the Bhutan government aids in preventing overcrowding within the country. This ensures visitors can view the Buddhist temples and natural splendors of the mountains with relatively few other tourists present.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Wild creatures crowds at watering holes during this warm and humid month.
The sturdiest pair of hiking boots suitable for difficult terrain is the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Boots. Fully waterproofed utilizing Gore-tex technology, these boots permit exploration of the finest trails in CA.
September can be humid and warm in South Africa, but wildlife also tends to gather around water sources in Kruger National Park during this time. Visiting those watering holes means having a better chance of seeing the animals as they emerge this season.
London, United Kingdom
Join one of several festivals and experience key attractions with fewer visitors.
✈️ Air travel to London | 🛎️ Hotels in London| Where to Stay | Things to Do | Eateries
The month of September provides an exceptional time to explore London, England. The weather is mild and warm, many tourists have departed, yet numerous cultural events remain on the calendar including the Turning Tides music festival and London Design Fair. Plan a scenic cruise along the River Thames, investigate the array of museums, and spend a lovely autumn afternoon in one of the various London parks.
Sicily, Italy
Appreciate authentic Italian nourishment and wine under the warm September sun.
✈️ Travel to Palermo | 🛎️ Accommodations in Sicily
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Iceland
Search for the Northern Lights, explore national parks, and embark on other outdoor adventures.
✈️ Flights to the capital of Iceland | 🛎️ Accommodations in Reykjavik
Iceland is one of the best places to visit to behold the Northern Illumination! The viewing season initiates in September and endures until March. You’ll find lots of other things to do in September, too. Submerge in the Blue Lagoon, visit one of the country’s natural reserves, or embark on an waterfall expedition.
Bruges, Belgium
Experience the charming atmosphere of a European city known for its architecture and streets lined with cobblestones during the autumn months.
✈️ Flights to Bruges | 🛎️ Lodging in Bruges| Activities
Bruges, Belgium is a breath taking place to welcome autumn! Take a boat trip along the canals or rent a bicycle to ride the cobbled streets. You can also see historic structures like the Belfry of Bruges and the buildings in Burg Square.
Greece
Take a dip in the still-warm sea and benefit from lesser-crowded Greek islands.
✈️ Air Travel to Athens | 🛎️ Accommodations in Athens| Places to Explore | Activities to Participate In
The aquatic temperatures remain mild if you visit the Greek islands in September, allowing you to enjoy the coast before colder weather arrives. Consider following the recommendation from Travel Lemming founder Nateby exploring less busy areas in Greece, such as Koufonisia and Anafi instead of Santorini.
FAQs on Where to Travel in September
Where should I travel in the USA in September?
Locations in the United States that should be visited in September include Denver, Colorado; Grand Canyon National Reserve; and San Francisco, California. Enjoy smaller crowds at well-known attractions, autumn weather and foliage displays, and various special events.
Where should I travel internationally in September?
Areas you should travel internationally to in September include Greece; London, United Kingdom; and Sicily, Italy. Travelers may wish to consider Munich, Germany as well, as its iconic Oktoberfest begins in September.
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I hope this guide has provided you some interesting ideas for places to visit in September!
Next up, read about the top destinations to explore in October.
