Where To Go In The Usa In September
Okay, so picture this: me, sweating buckets in August, staring longingly at my pumpkin spice latte (yes, I know, I'm basic). I was dreaming of crisp air, colorful leaves, and escaping the summer heat. "There has to be a better place to be in September," I thought. And guess what? There is! Actually, there are tons. So, if you're like me and ready to ditch the tank tops for sweaters, keep reading. This is your unofficial guide to some of the best places to visit in the USA in September.
September is the sweet spot for travel in the US. The summer crowds have thinned, the kids are back in school (sorry, kids!), and the weather is often gloriously pleasant. Plus, you can usually snag some deals on flights and accommodation. What's not to love? (Except maybe that pumpkin spice latte. Okay, I still love it.)
New England: Leaf Peeping Central
Let's start with the obvious: New England. Seriously, if you haven't experienced fall in New England, you're missing out. The leaves turn into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. It's like nature decided to throw a massive party, and everyone's invited.
Must Read
Where to go: Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are classic choices. Think scenic drives along winding roads, cozy bed and breakfasts, and apple cider donuts (essential!). You can hike, bike, or just relax and soak up the beauty.
Pro tip: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you're going during peak foliage season. Those cozy B&Bs fill up fast! Also, check foliage reports online to see where the colors are popping.
The Pacific Northwest: Hiking Heaven
If you're more of an outdoorsy type (or just want to pretend you are for a weekend), head to the Pacific Northwest. September is an amazing time for hiking in places like Washington and Oregon. The summer crowds are gone, and the weather is usually dry and sunny.
Where to go: Check out Olympic National Park in Washington for diverse landscapes, from mountains to rainforests to beaches. Or explore the stunning scenery of Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.
Side note: Remember to pack layers! The weather in the mountains can change quickly, even in September. And don't forget your hiking boots! You'll thank me later.
The Southwest: Desert Dreams
Tired of the humidity? Escape to the arid landscapes of the Southwest. September is a great time to visit places like Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico. The scorching summer heat has subsided, making it much more comfortable to explore.
Where to go: Visit the Grand Canyon in Arizona for breathtaking views. Explore the red rock canyons of Zion National Park in Utah. Or discover the unique culture and art scene of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Warning: Even though it's not as hot as summer, the sun can still be intense in the Southwest. Remember to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and wear a hat. And maybe learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it could come in handy!
California: Sunshine and Wine
Okay, let's be honest, California is pretty great year-round. But September is particularly appealing. The summer crowds are thinning out at the beaches, and it's harvest season in wine country. Hello, wine tasting!
Where to go: Spend some time soaking up the sun in Southern California (San Diego, anyone?). Or head north to Napa and Sonoma for wine tasting and vineyard tours. You could even do a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Fun fact: Did you know that California produces almost 90% of all wine made in the United States? Time to do some serious research.
Bonus: Somewhere Unexpected
Feeling adventurous? Consider a trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. September offers stunning coastal scenery without the peak summer crowds. Explore the rocky coastline, hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain for sunrise (it's the first place in the US to see the sunrise!), and indulge in some delicious seafood.
Another option: Asheville, North Carolina. This cool mountain town has a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and access to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. September is a great time to hike, bike, and explore the area.
So, there you have it! My completely subjective (but hopefully helpful) guide to some of the best places to visit in the USA in September. Now go forth, book your trip, and enjoy the beauty of fall! And don't forget to send me a postcard (or at least a picture on Instagram). Happy travels!