10 Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

September is one of the best months to explore the USA. Best Places to Visit in the USA in September. The summer crowds have thinned, hotel rates drop, and the weather is often cooler and pleasant. Fall colors begin to appear in many regions, making scenic drives and hikes especially memorable. Travel experts even note that September offers “great weather” while being “less busy,” so it’s easier to see key sites. With mild temperatures and shoulder-season deals, now is a perfect time to discover the best places to visit in September USA. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage in New England or lounging on a Hawaiian beach, this guide covers top destinations, travel tips, and must-see highlights. See details about Best Places to Visit in the USA in September.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine – Rugged Coast & Fall Foliage

Acadia National Park on Maine’s coast tops many best places to visit in September USA lists. In September the summer crowds are gone, the weather is mild, and the first hints of orange and red appear in the forests. Best Places to Visit in the USA in September Hikers and drivers love the Park Loop Road: you’ll see dramatic ocean cliffs and bracketing fall colors along the way. Dawn on Cadillac Mountain (the East Coast’s highest peak) offers unforgettable views and is especially popular in September. Nearby Bar Harbor town also perks up with harvest festivals and clam shacks best place to visit in usa in september

• Top activities: Drive Park Loop Road for ocean vistas and fall color. Hike Jordan Pond Path or climb Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views. Don’t miss sunrise at Cadillac or a lobster roll in Bar Harbor.
• Travel tip: Midweek travel means quieter trails. September lows are around 13–21°C, making Acadia’s forests and trails comfortable for outdoor adventures.
• Acadia National Park (NPS) has park maps and trail info for planning.

2. Great Smoky Mountains NP, Tennessee/North Carolina – Early Fall in Appalachia

The Great Smoky Mountains offer classic Appalachian scenery. By mid-September, many hiking trails and ridges are clear of summer haze, revealing rolling mountain vistas. While peak leaf color arrives in October, September still brings pleasant hiking temperatures (often 20–25°C) and fewer crowds than summer. You can explore scenic drives like the Cades Cove Loop, watch for elk along Cataloochee Road, or hike around Clingmans Dome (at ~2,000 m elevation) for cooler air.Best Places to Visit in the USA in September the weather is drier and cooler than midsummer, ideal for camping or backpacking before peak fall. Nearby towns like Gatlinburg or Cherokee host fall festivals and arts fairs.

• Why go in September: Lower humidity and warm days make hiking and wildlife-watching great. With 80% deciduous forest, the park slowly starts to turn golden, offering early autumn ambiance.
• Top picks: Drive Newfound Gap Road for panoramic mountain views. Hike shorter trails (e.g. Laurel Falls Trail or Andrews Bald) in crisp, sunny conditions. Spot wildlife like elk and black bears taking advantage of quieter trails Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

3. Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge Mountains & Fall Flavors

Asheville’s creative mountain culture shines in September. Temperatures hover in the mid-20s °C, warm by day and cool at night. It’s a prime time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (famous for fall foliage) or attend local harvest events. The city is known for its craft breweries, and many Octoberfest-style beer festivals kick off in late September. Explore downtown’s vibrant arts scene and music venues; for example, the music venue The Orange Peel often has concerts. Don’t miss the Biltmore Estate just outside Asheville, where gardens may show hints of autumn color Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

• Top activities: Drive a stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway for early fall leaves. Stroll through the River Arts District galleries and sample craft beer at breweries like Wicked Weed and Highland Brewing. Visit local farmers’ markets and pumpkin patches in nearby “Apple Alley” (Hendersonville) Best Places to Visit in the USA in September
• Local flavor: Asheville is famous for farm-to-table food. Try a pumpkin-spiced latte at one of the city’s many cafés. The laid-back yet creative vibe makes Asheville a top best places to visit in USA in September destination

4. Charleston, South Carolina – Historic Charm on the East Coast

In September, Charleston’s summer heat finally eases. The city’s pastel-colored historic district and old plantations remain lush, while beach temperatures are still warm enough to swim. It’s prime time to stroll cobblestone streets without spring-break crowds. Charleston’s Queen Street Pier, waterfront parks and Rainbow Row houses are picturesque this time of year. You’ll also find fall festivals (art and food) kicking off. For example, the city is known for Southern cuisine — don’t miss sampling shrimp and grits or pecan pie at the City Market Local flavor: Asheville is famous for farm-to-table food. Try a pumpkin-spiced latte at one of the city’s many cafés. The laid-back yet creative vibe makes Asheville a top best places to visit in USA in September destination

• Highlights: Enjoy morning coffee on the Battery promenade overlooking Charleston Harbor. Relax on nearby Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island with more privacy than in peak summer. Try local Lowcountry dishes (e.g. okra soup, Benne wafers) at historic eateries.
• Travel tip: Charleston’s historic area can be explored on foot or by carriage. Many bed-and-breakfasts and inns in the Historic District lower their rates after Labor Day Local flavor: Asheville is famous for farm-to-table food. Try a pumpkin-spiced latte at one of the city’s many cafés. The laid-back yet creative vibe makes Asheville a top best places to visit in USA in September destination

Street view of Rainbow Row houses in Charleston, SC – September’s warm weather and smaller crowds make this colonial port city delightful to explore Local flavor: Asheville is famous for farm-to-table food. Try a pumpkin-spiced latte at one of the city’s many cafés. The laid-back yet creative vibe makes Asheville a top Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

5. Santa Fe, New Mexico – Cultural High Desert Escape

Santa Fe is warm and comfortable in September (around 13–24°C). With the high summer heat gone, it’s perfect for adobe-architecture sightseeing and hikes in the Sangre de Cristo foothills. The city’s famous Canyon Road galleries and southwest cuisine (green chile enchiladas!) are easy to enjoy. September also brings vibrant local festivals: for example, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta parades through the Plaza, and the Burning of Zozobra (a giant marionette) symbolizes burning away the old year. The crisp air makes hiking the Dale Ball Trails or nearby mountains especially pleasant as cottonwood trees start to yellow.

• Don’t miss: Tour the historic Plaza and Cathedral Basilica downtown. Visit art galleries on Canyon Road and sample chile-stuffed empanadas.
• Outdoor fun: Hike in the Sangre de Cristo foothills (e.g. Atalaya Trail) to catch the sunrise over Santa Fe, or walk the Santa Fe Rail Trail surrounded by early fall hues.
• Cultural tip: Nearby Taos Pueblo (a UNESCO site) is lovely in September weather, and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers scenic views of changing aspens Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

6. Seattle, Washington – Urban Northwest with Clear Skies

By September, Seattle’s famous summer “June gloom” has typically cleared, leaving sunny days and warm afternoons (highs ~21°C). The city’s parks and coffee shops hum as students return to school and outdoor festivals continue. Mountain views are often crystal-clear: on good days you can see snow-capped Mt. Rainier from downtown. Enjoy summer-rate crowds—ferries to nearby islands, Pike Place Market, and the Space Needle observation deck are all more pleasant with cooler, dry weather. Fall events like the Seattle Art Fair and Oktoberfest at Seattle Center add festive flair Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

• Must-see: Ride the Seattle Great Wheel on Elliott Bay or sip craft coffee in the quirky Fremont neighborhood. Stroll Gas Works Park on Lake Union for a city skyline photo.
• Nearby nature: Drive 2–3 hours to Olympic or North Cascades National Parks. In late September, alpine larches turn golden and wildflowers linger at higher elevation.

Seattle skyline with Mt. Rainier – September often brings clear weather and mild temperatures, making this Pacific Northwest city and its surrounding wilderness ideal for autumn adventures Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

7. Colorado Springs, Colorado – Rocky Mountain Adventure

Colorado Springs shines in early fall. The city (elevation ~1,800 m) sees sunny days and crisp nights – ideal for hiking Pikes Peak or Garden of the Gods Park. By September golden aspens begin to edge the foothills, and the air is much drier than summer’s high humidity. Attractions like the scenic Garden of the Gods rock formations or Seven Falls are framed by deep blue skies. Local festivals (e.g. Hispanic heritage Fiestas Patrias, Pawtoberfest) offer festive activities without summer crowds Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

• Activities: Ride the Cog Railway up Pikes Peak for sweeping views or hike the Barr Trail. Walk among the towering red rocks of Garden of the Gods – the clear September air makes the colors pop.
• Culture & cuisine: Tour the charming Old Colorado City district and sample Rocky Mountain fare (trout, elk burgers). Stay at a mountain lodge to unwind by a fireplace after a day of adventure Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

8. Zion National Park, Utah – Red Rock Desert in Fall Light

Zion’s warm, dry climate cools off in September, but daytime highs (~32°C) remain ideal for hiking the park’s famous trails. With summer’s intense heat and crowds gone, September visitors can tackle Angels Landing or The Narrows more comfortably. Early autumn also brings subtle color shifts: cottonwoods and birches are just starting to turn in Zion Canyon, which contrasts beautifully with the red Navajo sandstone. Scenic drives through Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons are spectacular in the gentle evening light.

• Highlight hikes: Ascend Angels Landing for an adrenaline rush (early morning to beat any crowds). Trek the Narrows wading up the Virgin River – in September the flow is calmer. Both are safer and more pleasant now Best Places to Visit in the USA in September
• Other sights: Drive or bike the 5-mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Visit Emerald Pools and enjoy the cooler temps – even a light sweater is welcome in the shade Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

9. Kauaʻi, Hawaii – Tropical Paradise with Calm Seas

September is one of the best months for a tropical escape in the USA. On the Hawaiian island of Kauaʻi, the north coast’s famous Nā Pali Coast sees warm, dry weather and calm ocean conditions. This makes it perfect for boat tours, kayaking, or cliff hikes along the emerald-green coastline. The trails like the famed Kalalau Trail are lush but not rainy as they are in winter months. Fewer tourists around means boat tours to waterfalls and beaches feel uncrowded and serene Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

• Paradise highlights: Take a sunset sail along Nā Pali Coast to see dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches. Snorkel in clear waters at Tunnels Beach or Kapoʻipo Beach, where sea turtles and tropical fish abound.
• Weather tip: Big Island and Maui are all-inclusive favorites, but Kauaʻi has a more rugged, laid-back vibe. Still, you’ll find great resorts (often with package deals) to stay in. September is part of the dry season in Hawaii, so expect plenty of sunshine Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

10. New Orleans, Louisiana – Southern Culture & Music

In New Orleans, September means long days and warm evenings (often around 30°C) – you can still enjoy shorts, jazz, and fresh seafood along the Mississippi. The city’s iconic French Quarter and Garden District are lively but less sweltering than summer. The famous voodoo-influenced architecture, street music, and Creole restaurants are open for exploration. September also kicks off NOLA’s festival season; for example, local jazz clubs and riverboat venues host early fall concerts. In short, the Big Easy’s cultural richness and year-round party vibe make it one of the best places to visit in USA in September.

• What to do: Feast on beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde, then wander the French Quarter. Listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street. Take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi at sunset.
• Local flavor: Try classic Creole dishes (gumbo, jambalaya) at a sidewalk café. If you visit in late September, the city may even be decorating for Halloween — the haunted ghost tours start running early Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

FAQs about Visiting the USA in September

• What are the best places to visit in the USA in September? Many travelers recommend destinations with fall color and mild weather. Best Places to Visit in the USA in September Top picks include Acadia National Park (Maine) for foliage, the Blue Ridge Mountains (Asheville, NC), national parks like Zion (Utah), and even tropical spots like Kauaʻi (Hawaii) for warm weather. Southern cities like Charleston and New Orleans are also great choices thanks to lower humidity and lively festivals Best Places to Visit in the USA in September
• Is September a good time to travel in the USA? Yes. September is a shoulder season with fewer crowds, lower prices, and still-good weather. According to travel experts, it’s “a great time to visit,” offering cooler temperatures and less busy conditions. Many national parks remain open, and events often continue into early autumn Best Places to Visit in the USA in September
• Where can I see fall foliage in September USA? Early autumn color appears first in northern and higher-elevation areas. Acadia NP (Maine) and the Adirondacks/Northeast see color by late September. The Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina) and Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee) start showing yellow and orange hues. In the Rockies, mountains like Aspen in Colorado begin to turn gold in late September Best Places to Visit in the USA in September
• What about all-inclusive vacations in September USA? While “all-inclusive” is more common in Mexico/Caribbean, some US destinations offer inclusive packages. For example, Hawaii resorts often have meal plans, and some luxury lodges in Colorado or California bundle meals/activities. September’s off-peak rates can make vacation packages (flights + hotel) cheaper as well.
• Should I go to the beach or mountains in September? Both are great options. If you love beaches, the water is still warm in places like Florida, California (like Carmel-by-the-Sea) or Hawaii. If you prefer mountains and cooler air, consider national parks (Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains, Rocky Mountains). Many travelers split their trip – e.g. do mountains in the first half of the month and a beach/island in the second half Best Places to Visit in the USA in September

September travel in the USA promises something for every taste: from scenic fall drives to city festivals. These 10 destinations – and others like them – highlight why September is a top season for travel. Pack according to regional climates, snap photos of the beginning of fall foliage, and share your adventure with friends. Happy travels Best Places to Visit in the USA in September