16 Best Places To Visit In September USA

September is a magical time to travel across the United States. With summer crowds dispersing, temperatures cooling to comfortable levels, and fall foliage beginning to emerge, this month offers the perfect balance for travelers. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, here are the top destinations to consider for your September travels in the USA.

1. Aspen, Colorado – Best Places To Visit In September USA

I'm a big fan of this best place to visit in september usa which is located in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with natural beauty, cultural events, and unique experiences during this perfect time of year.

I going on a warm september sun here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for fall – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and biking to sightseeing and attending festivals.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a swimming pool before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this mountain town had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Hotel Jerome – I loved staying in their fun historic rooms, the trendy J-Bar, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a trip on the Silver Queen Gondola and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking fall foliage views.
• Celebrity spotting at the glamorous Aspen Film Festival which takes place during this month.
• Exploring the stunning Maroon Bells area, one of the best places to visit in the us in september for fall colors.
• Attending the vibrant Snowmass Balloon Festival, a unique event that makes Aspen one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples.

2. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)

I think this iconic national park is one of the best places in usa to visit in september, but this just adds to its charm! Located across three states, it's America's first national park and doesn't get as crowded this time of year as summer months, which I think is a good thing!

I found that the park had a wild, untamed vibe with unspoiled scenery. I loved the breathtaking geysers, colorful hot springs, dramatic canyons, vast forests, and abundant wildlife. I found the accommodation ranged from rustic lodges and historic inns to campgrounds, giving it a natural, adventurous appeal!

Summer is the peak season, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and fewer crowds. It was amazing to have some trails almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, though it was chilly in mornings and evenings, so I also packed for cooler days.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Old Faithful Inn – I especially enjoyed exploring the rustic log architecture and watching Old Faithful erupt from the observation deck!
• Taking a trip to the Grand Prismatic Spring and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking rainbow-colored hot spring.
• Spotting wildlife in the remote and tranquil Lamar Valley, known as the “Serengeti of North America” – the elk were in rutting season and bears were busy preparing for winter.
• Hiking through golden aspen groves with fewer crowds than summer months – I practically had some trails all to myself!
• Exploring the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, making it one of the best places to visit in september in the us for nature lovers.

3. New York City, New York

The vibrant, energetic Big Apple is definitely one of the best us cities to visit in september! Located on the East Coast, I became really fond of its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, Broadway theaters, and its exciting, fast-paced vibe!

I took a break here during September and I found the weather was warm but not too intense, and there were fewer tourists than the summer. I also loved that it was the start of the cultural season, so I could enjoy Broadway shows and museum exhibitions without the crushing crowds!

There are also fantastic events happening this month! I loved experiencing New York Fashion Week with the beautiful models and designers dotted all over the city as well as the vibrant U.S. Open tennis tournament, the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy my favorites!

My highlights…

• Strolling through Central Park and crunching through the first fallen autumn leaves – the perfect weather made it ideal for exploring the park's many paths and attractions.
• Attending exciting September events like New York Fashion Week and the U.S. Open tennis tournament which brought so much energy to the city.
• Experiencing the moving Tribute in Light 9/11 Memorial where dual beams of light pay tribute to the Twin Towers – visible for miles around the city.
• Taking advantage of the pleasant fall weather for biking across the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoying spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
• Visiting the lively Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy, making NYC one of the best places to visit in september in usa for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.

4. San Francisco, California

The foggy city by the bay stole my heart in September! Located on the tip of a peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, I was captivated by its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, steep hills, and that magical golden September light that bathes everything in warmth.

I going on a warm “Second Summer” here when most places are already feeling fall's chill – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from exploring urban neighborhoods to hiking coastal trails and attending vibrant cultural festivals.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a waterfront cafe before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this best place to visit in september usa had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Hotel Zetta – I loved staying in their fun tech-forward rooms, the trendy S&R Lounge, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a trip to Alcatraz Island and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking views of the city skyline from the former prison.
• Exploring the vibrant Mission District with its colorful murals, trendy restaurants, and Dolores Park which makes this one of the best places in the us to visit in september.
• Attending the lively Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park, a free music event that makes San Francisco one of the best places to visit in september usa for music lovers.
• Walking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and enjoying the perfect clear September views that are rare during summer's foggy months.

5. Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina)

These misty mountains captured my imagination with their ancient forests! Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this national park offers some of the best places to visit in september in usa for nature lovers seeking fall's first blush of color against a backdrop of blue-hazed peaks and rushing streams.

I going on a mountain adventure here when the summer crowds had vanished but winter's chill hadn't yet arrived – it's that sweet spot in September when the temperatures are just right, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from scenic drives to wildlife watching and exploring the charming gateway towns.

When here, I loved just simply relaxing on a rocking chair at my cabin porch before heading off to indulge in the peaceful and rejuvenating experiences this natural wonderland had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Blackberry Farm – I especially enjoyed exploring the luxury mountain resort, the farm-to-table dining, and the peaceful Smoky Mountain views!
• Taking a trip to Clingmans Dome and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point in the park.
• Spotting wildlife in the remote and tranquil Cades Cove, one of the best places to visit in september in the us for seeing black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.
• Hiking through forests beginning to show hints of fall color – I practically had some trails all to myself!
• Exploring the charming mountain towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, with their authentic music festivals and Appalachian culture that make this one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples.

6. Chicago, Illinois

This architectural wonderland along Lake Michigan surprised me in the best way! Nicknamed the Windy City, Chicago reveals itself as one of the best us cities to visit in september when summer heat fades but before winter's notorious chill sets in.

I took a chance on this midwest metropolis during September and found myself enchanted by its perfect blend of big-city energy and friendly neighborhood vibes. I also loved that the lakefront was still warm enough to enjoy but the museums and cultural venues weren't packed with summer tourists!

There are also fantastic events happening this month that make it one of the places to visit in september usa for culture lovers! I loved experiencing the Chicago Jazz Festival with world-class musicians performing in Millennium Park as well as the vibrant Riot Fest and various Oktoberfest celebrations throughout the city my favorites!

My highlights…

• Strolling along the Chicago Riverwalk and taking in the architectural wonders that make this one of the best us cities to visit in september.
• Attending exciting September events like the Chicago Jazz Festival which brought so much energy to the city.
• Taking advantage of the pleasant fall weather for biking along the Lakefront Trail and enjoying spectacular views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
• Visiting the world-class Art Institute of Chicago without the summer crowds, making it one of the places to visit in september usa for art lovers.
• Taking an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River – I couldn't get enough of the stories about the city's famous buildings and history while enjoying the perfect September weather!

7. Maui, Hawaii

The tropical paradise of the Valley Isle swept me away with its September magic! Located in the central Pacific as part of the Hawaiian archipelago, this best place to visit in september usa offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island culture without the summer crowds.

I going on a warm island sun here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for fall – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from snorkeling and surfing to scenic drives and attending cultural festivals.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a pristine beach before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this tropical haven had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort – I loved staying in their fun oceanfront rooms, the trendy Morimoto restaurant, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a trip to Molokini Crater and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking underwater marine life in this crescent-shaped volcanic caldera.
• Experiencing the authentic Aloha Festivals which makes this one of the best places to visit in september in the us for cultural immersion.
• Driving the scenic Road to Hana without the summer traffic jams – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Watching the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park, one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples seeking a magical, romantic experience.

8. Boston, Massachusetts

The historic cradle of America captivated my imagination in September! Located on Massachusetts Bay, this walkable city transforms as summer heat fades and the first hints of New England's famous fall colors begin to appear along the Freedom Trail and Public Garden.

I found that the city had a perfect academic energy in September with students returning and cultural events ramping up. I loved the charming cobblestone streets, world-class museums, historic landmarks, and vibrant food scene. I found the accommodation options varied from boutique hotels in converted brownstones to luxury waterfront properties, giving it a sophisticated, historic appeal!

Summer tourists have mostly departed, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and fewer crowds. It was amazing to have some attractions almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for walking this pedestrian-friendly city, though evenings could be cool, so I also packed a light jacket.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic The Revolution Hotel – I especially enjoyed exploring their art installations celebrating Boston's history, the cozy lobby workspace, and the central South End location!
• Taking a sunset harbor cruise and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking city skyline as the golden hour light bathed the buildings.
• Exploring Harvard University campus without the summer tour groups, making this one of the best us cities to visit in september for education enthusiasts.
• Walking the historic Freedom Trail with the perfect weather – I practically had some historic sites all to myself!
• Visiting the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood with its gas lamps and brick sidewalks, one of the places to visit in september usa that feels like stepping back in time.

9. Sedona, Arizona

I think this red rock wonderland is hugely underrated, but this just adds to its charm! Located in Arizona's high desert under the towering southwestern mesas, it's one of the best places in usa to visit in september when the scorching summer heat finally gives way to pleasant temperatures.

I found that the area had a mystical, spiritual vibe with unspoiled natural beauty. I loved the breathtaking red rock formations, energy vortexes, starlit skies, desert flora, and abundant outdoor adventures. I found the accommodation ranged from luxury resorts and spa retreats to boutique B&Bs and vacation rentals, giving it a relaxed, upscale appeal!

Summer is too hot for comfort, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and fewer crowds. It was amazing to have the hiking trails and viewpoints almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, though it cooled significantly at night due to the desert climate, so I also packed for cooler evenings.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative L'Auberge de Sedona – I loved staying in their fun creekside cottages, the trendy Cress on Oak Creek restaurant, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a Pink Jeep Tour and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking Cathedral Rock and other famous formations.
• Attending the vibrant Sedona Winefest which makes this one of the best places to visit in september in usa for wine enthusiasts.
• Hiking the iconic Devil's Bridge Trail in the perfect morning temperatures – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Experiencing a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, floating above the red rocks as they glowed in the morning light, making this one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples seeking unforgettable memories.

10. Seattle, Washington

I think this Emerald City is a hidden gem in September, but this just adds to its charm! Located in the Pacific Northwest, it's one of the best places in usa to visit in september when the notoriously rainy weather takes a break and offers clear, crisp days.

I found that the city had a cool, laid-back vibe with a perfect blend of urban attractions and natural beauty. I loved the iconic Space Needle, vibrant Pike Place Market, stunning Puget Sound views, and the thriving coffee and music scenes. I found the accommodation ranged from trendy boutique hotels to eco-friendly lodges, giving it a modern, progressive appeal!

Summer crowds have thinned out, so I visited in September to take advantage of the drier weather and fewer tourists. It was amazing to have some attractions almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring this walkable city, though evenings could be cool, so I also packed a light jacket.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Thompson Seattle – I loved staying in their fun rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, the trendy rooftop bar with panoramic views, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a trip to the San Juan Islands and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking Puget Sound scenery and possible orca sightings.
• Attending the vibrant Bumbershoot Festival which makes this one of the best places to visit in september in usa for music and arts enthusiasts.
• Exploring Pike Place Market without the summer crowds – I practically had some stalls all to myself!
• Experiencing the Fremont Oktoberfest, making this one of the best places to travel in september usa for craft beer lovers seeking a unique, local celebration.

11. Acadia National Park, Maine

The rugged beauty of this coastal wonderland took my breath away! Located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in september usa when the summer crowds have dispersed but before the leaf-peeping rush begins.

I going on a crisp New England adventure here when the days were still warm but had that hint of fall in the air – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and biking to stargazing and wildlife watching.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by the rocky coastline before heading off to indulge in the invigorating and awe-inspiring experiences this natural paradise had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – I especially enjoyed their oceanfront rooms, the Shore Path access, and the cozy fireplace lounges!
• Taking a sunrise hike up Cadillac Mountain and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking first light to touch the U.S.
• Biking the historic Carriage Roads, making this one of the best places to visit in september in the us for outdoor enthusiasts seeking car-free adventures.
• Hiking the Great Head Trail with perfect weather – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Exploring the tide pools at low tide along the Ocean Path, one of the places to visit in september usa that offers a unique glimpse into marine ecosystems.

12. Bar Harbor, Maine

This charming coastal town completely won me over with its September magic! Located on Mount Desert Island, adjacent to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers one of the best places in the us to visit in september for a perfect blend of small-town charm and natural wonders.

I found that the town had a quaint, maritime vibe with unspoiled scenery. I loved the picturesque harbor views, cute shops along Main Street, fresh lobster shacks, and easy access to Acadia's hiking trails. I found the accommodation ranged from historic inns and B&Bs to harborside hotels, giving it a cozy, New England appeal!

Summer tourists have mostly departed, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and fewer crowds. It was amazing to have some attractions and restaurants almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the town and nearby park, though evenings could be cool, so I also packed some warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Salt Cottages – I loved staying in their fun retro-inspired cottages, the trendy pool area with Frenchman Bay views, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking a scenic boat tour and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking coastline and possible whale sightings.
• Attending the vibrant Bar Harbor Fine Arts Festival which makes this one of the best places to visit in september usa for art lovers.
• Exploring the Shore Path without the summer crowds – I practically had some scenic spots all to myself!
• Indulging in a lobster bake on the beach, making this one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples seeking a romantic, quintessential Maine experience.

13. Niagara Falls, New York

I think this iconic natural wonder is one of the best places in the us to visit in september! Located on the border between the United States and Canada, I became really fond of its thundering waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, boat tours, and the perfect blend of natural beauty and tourist attractions.

I found that the area had a refreshing, awe-inspiring vibe with spectacular scenery. I loved the powerful rushing waters, misty viewpoints, colorful nighttime illuminations, and nearby wine country. I found the accommodation ranged from historic hotels and family-friendly resorts to budget motels, giving it a diverse, accessible appeal!

Summer is the peak season, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and fewer crowds. It was amazing to have some viewpoints almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring the falls and surrounding attractions, though it could get chilly near the water, so I also packed a light jacket.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Giacomo Hotel – I loved staying in their fun art deco rooms, the trendy 19th floor Sky View Lounge, and the boutique vibe it had!
• Taking the historic Maid of the Mist boat tour and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking rushing waters up close.
• Attending the vibrant Niagara County Peach Festival which makes this one of the best places to visit in september usa for food lovers.
• Experiencing the Cave of the Winds where I could feel the power of the 181-foot-tall Bridal Veil Falls – I practically had some viewing platforms all to myself!
• Exploring the nearby Harvest and Hops Festival, making this one of the places to visit in september in usa for craft beer enthusiasts seeking a unique, local celebration.

14. Charleston, South Carolina

The charming southern belle of a city completely won me over! Located on South Carolina's coast, Charleston is one of the best places to visit in september in the us when the summer humidity finally breaks but temperatures remain warm enough for beach days.

I going on a warm coastal sun here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for fall – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from historic district walking tours to beach days and culinary adventures.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a hotel courtyard before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this historic city had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic Hotel Bennett – I especially enjoyed their rooftop pool with city views, the elegant Champagne Bar, and the perfect King Street location!
• Taking a historic district walking tour and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking antebellum architecture and colorful Rainbow Row houses.
• Exploring the cobblestone streets and lush gardens without the summer crowds – I practically had some historic sites all to myself!
• Dining at FIG (Food Is Good) restaurant where I indulged in seasonal Lowcountry cuisine that makes this one of the best places to visit in september in usa for foodies.
• Visiting nearby Folly Beach for a relaxing day by the ocean, making this one of the best places to travel in september usa for couples seeking a perfect blend of history, cuisine, and beach time.

15. Moab, Utah

I'm a big fan of this desert adventure hub which is located in eastern Utah near Colorado border. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with dramatic red rock formations, natural arches, deep canyons, and the perfect base for exploring two stunning national parks.

I going on a warm desert sun here when most of the Northern Hemisphere is preparing for fall – it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so I find it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to rafting and stargazing.

When here, I loved just simply lounging by a swimming pool before heading off to indulge in the relaxing and exciting experiences this outdoor paradise had to offer.

My highlights…

• Staying at the creative Under Canvas Moab – I loved staying in their fun luxury safari tents, the trendy communal fire pit, and the glamping vibe it had!
• Taking a trip to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking iconic formation at sunset.
• Exploring Canyonlands National Park's Island in the Sky district without the summer crowds – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Rafting on the Colorado River through stunning red rock canyons, making this one of the places to visit in september usa for adventure seekers.
• Experiencing the incredible stargazing opportunitys under clear September skys, one of the best place in the us to visit in september for astronomy enthusiasts.

16. North Cascades National Park, Washington

The breathtaking “American Alps” stole my heart with their September splendor! Located in northern Washington state near the Canadian border, this hidden gem is one of the best places to visit in september usa when the summer crowds have departed but before winter snow closes many trails.

I found that the park had a wild, pristine vibe with unspoiled alpine scenery. I loved the jagged mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, dense forests, and over 300 glaciers. I found the accomodation options limited to campgrounds within the park and lodges in nearby towns, giving it a remote, adventurous appeal!

Summer is short here, so I visited in September to take advantage of the mild weather and spectacular fall colors. It was amazing to have some hiking trails almost all to myself! The temperatures were pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring this mountainous wonderland, though mornings and evenings were quite cool, so I also packed warm layers.

My highlights…

• Staying at the quirky-chic North Cascades Environmental Learning Center – I especially enjoyed their lakeside location, educational programs, and access to hiking trails!
• Taking a drive along the North Cascades Highway (Route 20) and taking Instagram-worthy shots of the breathtaking mountain vistas and turquoise lakes.
• Hiking to Cascade Pass where alpine meadows were displaying brilliant fall colors – I practically had some viewpoints all to myself!
• Canoeing on Diablo Lake with it's stunning turquoise waters, making this one of the best places to visit in september in the us for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Photographing the jagged mountain peaks reflected in the clear lakes, one of the places to visit in september usa that truely feels like a photographer's paradise.