Happy Spooktacular October!
I hope you’ve all had a spooktastic week. I’m so excited that spooky season is here, it’s truly one of my favorite times of the year. Even though life feels a little chaotic right now, I can still feel all the cozy magic that this season brings.

I’m thrilled to share that our first piece of Halloween content is coming next week — it’s frightfully fun! We shot the story in New York, and I think you’re going to love it.

After a week spent at home, I’m looking forward to some travel later this month. There’s so much happening! I’ll be back and forth from New York, plus heading to Dallas, San Francisco, and a few new cities for our Williams-Sonoma fall/holiday tour (I’m sharing updates below!). It’s going to be such a fun season.

Before all of that kicks into high gear, I’m home for the next couple of weeks — hoping for sunny fall days and cozy nights. I’ll definitely be watching my favorite Halloween movies (Hocus Pocus, Halloweentown, and of course, Harry Potter). Reruns of Gilmore Girls have also been on repeat lately. They always bring so much comfort and remind me of fall back home in Cleveland.

Speaking of home, the leaves are gorgeous right now! We’ve got that crisp chill in the air, and the trees are just past their peak — golden, orange, and so pretty.

That’s it for our weekly catch-up! I have so many fun things to share below. Wishing you a cozy Sunday – I’ll be burning a pumpkin smash candle mixed with an apple cider candle (the secret is burning them together!) while baking soft pumpkin sugar cookies today.

And don’t miss 31 Recipes to Cook in October 2025.

1. Things I’m Loving.

gifting…Lola Blankets. As we head into the holiday season, I’m noting everything I want to gift this season. Lola Blankets are top of my list for friends and as hostess gifts. I know if someone brought me a cozy blanket, I would be excited! I have some inside scoop that their holiday collections is launching very soon. All I have to say is you need to be on the lookout because I think it’s going to sell out fast! Also, I highly recommend the weighted blanket (I think it’s my personal favorite).

cozying up with…Hanna Andersson holiday PJs. Speaking of gifting, holidays, and getting cozy, how cute are the Hanna Andersson pajamas? I don’t have kids, but for those of you who do, I love the Halloween collection. It’s so cute! My cousin just had a little girl. I want to send her this Halloween HannaJams Sleeper. And for Christmas, Oslo would be so excited about these Dr. Seuss Grinch HannaJams Pajama Set. Also, the holiday collection has matching adult PJs. Get them for the family! This Holiday Plaid Matching Family Pajama set is cute and festive.

reading…What to Do With Your Life in October—31 Cozy Ways to Embrace the Month Ahead.

coats…everything in my cart (low)…the Nike Full-Zip Jacket Windrunner. This is great for outdoor workouts through the fall. I love that it’s good for travel too!

I also found this Water Repellent Wind Resistant Stretch Nylon Jacket from The North Face (and it’s on sale), as well as a very cute Cropped Unify Jacket from Alo.

Sweater-wise, I’m into this Twist Reversible Sweater on Nordstrom. And both my mom and I love White & Warren. I added this cute Cashmere Neckerchief to my Shopbop cart. She added this Cashmere Crewneck to her White and Warren cart.

I wear the Perfect White Tee brand all the time. They make for awesome layering pieces. Adding the Hendrix Tee 3 Pack to my Shopbop cart.

And a pretty Reformation Knit Shrug Dress Set. Easy to style with fall boots!

listening to…Unlock Your Brain’s Full Potential from Aspire with Emma Grede. I listened to parts of this 3 times over to help fully absorb the information. It’s a really great episode! Emma’s guest and her solos are always so good. I learn a lot! I loved last week’s episode too, Plan Your Life Like a Business. 

traveling…The Insider Guide to Milan: The Most Stylish Places to Stay, Shop, Dine, and Go. We’ll be heading to Milan for hockey during the winter Olympics (Red competes in Livigno), so I’m bookmarking everything on this list!

loving…the new Antique Arras Peel and Stick Wallpaper by Jeremiah Brent. Pretty!

shopping…the new New Balance sneaks. I have the 1906R Sneaker and love them. But I’m into these new WTAPS x New Balance Abzorb 2010.

shopping…Zara 50th Birthday Collection. The brand is dropping 50 new objects designed in collaboration with people across art, design, film, and fashion. All proceeds will benefit Women’s Earth Alliance. Very cool! You can start shopping tomorrow, October 6th.

everything in my cart (beauty)…excited to try the new Rhode peptide eye prep set. I always travel with eye patches and put them on at night after I shower. They’re easy to throw on, so I love them!

The Eau Duelle Eau de Toilette from Diptyque sounds like a lovely fall scent with notes of vanilla.

nails…I’m into a dark nail for October, and OPI has some pretty opaque colors! Dark Cherry Cutney is spooky but still pretty, and Malaga Wine is a nice fall shade that would be cute for Thanksgiving.

My hair has been getting easily tangled lately and taking forever to brush. I’m ordering The Care & Detangling Hair Brush after reading about how good it is! But you guys, which color brush should I get? I can’t decide between The Essential Cherry Red and The Essential Terracotta. And honestly, the “Octobre Rose” Limited Edition is really pretty too! What’s your favorite?

wearing…J.Crew is doing everything right this season. I’ve been living in their brushed cashmere V-neck sweater.

also wearing…I love fleece jackets in the fall. This season, I actually got two! The Cabernet Fleece Cady Quarter Zip. The cabernet is sold out, but the black is cute too (and fully stocked). And from Alo, the Sherpa Edge Shacket in espresso – just restocked (the navy and the black are cute too). Skims has a cute boxy jacket too.

following…Dr. Amy Shah. I recently listened to a podcast she was on. I’m excited to follow. Also, Doctor Tara, whom I found through the Aspire podcast linked above. 

getting excited…for all the new holiday decor launching! Currently scrolling the Mcgee and Co Holiday Boutique. They design classic, timeless decor, which is very much my style for holiday decorating. I love this pretty Faux Dried Oranges Garland.

reading…What Is Your Joy Span? and A Big, Juicy Round Up of Fall Recommendations.

everything in my cart (high)…how cute is this cardigan from Tanya Taylor. I really love the raisin shade for fall. If you’re more of a neutral color girl, this cardigan from Revolve looks really cozy.

This Low Waist Leather Maxi Skirt from Reformation has Thanksgiving dinner look written all over it. So pretty, and the color makes it perfect for the holidays. I’d definitely wear it with this pretty STAUD Canal Top Canal Top. Just add boots!

loving…the Bottega Veneta Milan Fashion Week 2026 show. This collection is the first from Louise Trotter, the brand’s first female designer. I loved the new collection, it really is so pretty! Another highlight, but this time from Paris Fashion Week, was definitely Dior. One of my favorite collections! And the first from the brand’s new designer, Jonathan Anderson.

2. October Pumpkin Recipes.

There are so many…if you want them all, CLICK HERE

Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Cinnamon Swirl Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Pumpkin Spice Pecan Latte

Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Butter Bread

Brown Butter Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

White Chocolate Chai Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Pumpkin Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

6 Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter

Pumpkin Butter Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Icing

3. It’s Prime Day – this is what to shop.

beauty

fashion

home

4. The Fall/Holiday Tour Updates!

We have tour updates! After so many requests, two more cities have been added to this year’s fall and holiday tour with Williams-Sonoma — I’m so excited about this! If I could, I’d add even more stops, but time is so tight this season. (There’s a chance we may add one more, so keep checking back for updates!)

I’m especially thrilled to be back at Columbus Circle this December. That stop is going to feel so special!

Aside from signing books and snapping photos, what would make these nights extra meaningful for you? I’d love your ideas — email me, leave a comment, or just let me know what you’d like to see at these events.

See details and grab tickets below! 

Williams Sonoma South Coast Plaza

Costa Mesa, California
Wednesday, October 29th at 6 pm

Williams Sonoma at The Original Farmer’s Market
Los Angeles, California
Saturday, November 1 at 12:30

Williams Sonoma Hill Center

Nashville, Tennessee
Wednesday, November 5 at 6 pm

Williams Sonoma SouthPark Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina
Thursday, November 6 at 6 pm

*Williams Sonoma Columbus Circle
New York City, New York
Friday, December 2 at 6 pm

Note – correct date above (the link will be updated soon!)

5. Online Hate and Cruel Comments.

When did it become OK to speak to people you don’t even know in such a negative – sometimes even hateful – way? It’s something I’ve been feeling deeply lately, and it’s hard to understand.

The body shaming. The cruel, unnecessary comments. Even the threats and relentless criticism. It’s painful—and it’s not okay. We shouldn’t treat anyone this way.

I try every day to create recipes and content that make people feel happy, inspired, and connected. So it’s hard to read words meant to tear down rather than lift up.

Please remember:

• If you don’t have anything kind to say, don’t say it at all.

• Words have power. They can hurt – even those who seem strong on the outside.

Before posting something negative, ask yourself: How would I feel if someone said this to me, or to someone I love? Would I want to cause that kind of hurt?

I hope we can all choose kindness more often. That’s what I want this space to be, a place filled with love, warmth, and inspiration.

6. An October Giveaway.

It’s a spooky one! I am very excited to be gifting 10 winners over on Instagram the Staub pumpkins! Everyone LOVES these when I break them out every season.  Giveaway ends Thursday night (October 9th).

enter here

7. Favorite Links.

31 Spooky Movies to Get You in the Mood for Halloween

For the Best-Tasting Lasagna, I Always Sprinkle It With This

7 Surprising Self-Care Practices Experts Say Will Transform Your Health This Fall

These New Hotels in Paris Are Design-Forward, and Less Than $250 a Night

The Must-Have Pantry Staples We’ll Stock in Our Kitchens Forever and Ever

This Adaptable, No-Fuss Dinner Is My Greatest Parenting Triumph

The Halloween Costume You Should Wear, Based on Your Zodiac Sign

Contemplating Collagen Supplements? Here Are All The Benefits

The $2 Trader Joe’s Seasonal Staple I’m Stirring Into Yogurt Every Morning

8. This Week’s Fall Styles.

J.Crew

Shopbop

9. This Week’s Dinners + Weekend Eats.

Monday: Creamy Garlic Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Tuesday: Crockpot Sticky Sesame Ginger Chicken

Wednesday: Apple Cider Smothered Chicken

Thursday: Brie and Cheddar Butternut Squash Beer Soup

Friday: Sage Brown Butter Pumpkin Pasta Alfredo

Saturday: Ghostly Ginger Cocktail

Sunday: Baked Cinnamon Apple Butter French Toast

And don’t miss 31 Recipes to Cook in October 2025.

Located on the southernmost tip of the Jersey Shore, Cape May is proof that the longer the journey, the sweeter the reward. The local secret, though, is that the reward’s even sweeter if you wait until the fall, when those iconic, gingerbread-trimmed Victorian homes get bathed in autumnal light. Unlike most shore towns, which become crowded in the summer months and a bit deserted post-Labor Day, Cape May remains calm, yet plenty lively this time of year. There’s so much to see and do, whether you’re a ghost-hunter obsessed with all things paranormal, or a birder on the lookout for your next lifer. Climb the cast-iron spiral stairway up the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse to see the coastline enveloped in fall foliage, or pay a visit to Willow Creek Winery to enjoy a glass of wine alongside a firepit and crisp breeze. Ready to plan a trip to Jersey’s favorite shoulder season beach town? Read on for where to eat, stay, and play in Cape May this fall.

Visit Beach Plum Farm in the fall for hay rides, mulled cider, and pumpkin picking.

Cape Resorts

What to do in Cape May

There’s no better time of year to take a stroll—or trolley ride—around the 19th-century Victorian homes that lend Cape May its historic charm. During the annual Victorian Weekend (falling October 10–13, this year), you can get a rare peek inside the triple-decker beauties and take part in other activities, like craft fairs and baseball games as they were played in 1864 (think vintage uniforms). If it’s the supernatural that sways you, be sure to take a ghost tour of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. The Victorian house museum, designed by famed architect Frank Furness, is said to be teeming with spirit residents and a bunch of “rogue taxidermy.”

Cape May is considered one of the best birding destinations in North America, with the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean acting as natural funnels. Things get especially exciting in the fall, when raptors migrate across the 200-acre wetland area known as South Cape May Meadows. If you’re interested in birding but don’t know where to begin, consider checking out the Cape May Bird Observatory at Cape May Point State Park (also home to the iconic lighthouse), which offers regular programming with experienced naturalists. But perhaps the most popular birding hotspot is Higbee Beach, where you can watch warblers, raptors, and shorebirds take flight.

Celebrate fall bounty at Beach Plum Farm: Hop on a hayride, sip mulled cider, and pick the perfect pumpkin. The charming coastal farm, which is also home to a market and a few cozy cottages, hosts Autumn Harvest Dinners—seasonal feasts served family-style around long, communal tables. For a bit of shopping, pop into West End Garage, a 1940s garage-turned-antique market (it’s also home to the Beach Plum Bakery and Café). When day turns to night, head to Sunset Beach for, you guessed it, amazing sunset views, and hunt for Cape May “diamonds” (tiny pieces of quartz crystal that wash up on the shore.)

Where to eat and drink in Cape May

Start your day at an unlikely place—The Lobster House. The family-owned, dockside restaurant has been serving seafood alongside a 130-foot-long Grand Banks sailing vessel since 1964. Come to the takeout window for a daily coffee or weekend breakfast (a local’s secret) and maybe stay for an oyster or two at the raw bar. Over in West Cape May, Ostara’s Coffee House, Good Earth Organic Eatery, and Chez Michel French Bakery are all great options for early-day bites. Come dinnertime, if you’re looking for classic, white-tablecloth American dining, choose between Peter Shield Inn or Washington Inn, two Cape May stalwarts that will not disappoint. For something a bit more modern, check out Fish House, where you can enjoy fresh fish right on Sunset Beach, or Port, for their famous lobster caviar fries (head there on a Sunday to watch football on the restaurant’s outdoor TVs).

There’s something about the start of fall that makes us want to draft mental mood boards—proof, perhaps, that back-to-school optimism never really dies. Here at Condé Nast Traveler, we like to chart new beginnings vis-à-vis destinations, keeping in mind the things we’re excited to bring along with us. This fall, some of us are embracing shoulder season travel, squeezing out the last bits of sunshine from places like the Hamptons or the South of France, while others are chasing the changing colors of the trees in Austin and Montreal. We’ve got a few weddings on the docket, too, which means we’re carefully considering what’s going into our suitcases. Here, our editors share what they’re up to in the autumn months ahead, and what they’re adding to their packing lists.

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Shou Sugi Ban House

Courtesy Shou Sugi Ban House

When my son was little, I used to live on the East End of Long Island, and I’m long overdue for a visit. Canoe Place Inn in Hampton Bays was vacant for a few years, but it’s been newly refurbished, so I’m curious to see what it’s like now. I’m also really psyched to stay at Shou Sugi Ban House, which is another property that didn’t exist when I lived in the area. I still dream about the delicious brussels sprouts and skillet cornbread at Cowfish, where you can have brunch by the inlet and watch boats go by. I used to work down the street from Tate’s on North Sea Road in Southampton, which is great if you don’t mind gaining 50 pounds every day. Most people don’t realize that those delicious crispy cookies in the ubiquitous green package originated from a real place! I especially look forward to stocking up on its gingerbread cookies, which are only sold in-store, and stashing them in my Dagne Dover backpack. I’ll be rocking this tuxedo shirt from Anthro and this denim blazer while hanging out, and dark neutrals from Beyond Yoga while jogging along Dune Road. —Alexandra Sanidad, research director

Come October, I’ll be going to Montreal and then Quebec City to attend a travel conference. I’ve visited the former several times and love it dearly—when I’m there, I’ll eat, eat, and eat some more everywhere from Joe Beef and Fairmount Bagels to Vin Mon Lapin and Pichai. Between all the eating, I’ll do some walking—early autumn is a lovely time to be outside in this part of Canada—up Mont Royal as well as here, there, and everywhere in my trusty Weejuns, which are my walking shoes of choice. Most of my clothes are hand-me-downs or bought on eBay, but I will also likely be packing some broken-in Oxfords from J. Crew and my trusty pair of Achille jeans from A.P.C. (it will be well past Labor Day, but I find that cream-colored denim goes quite nicely with a navy sweater) in my Carl Friedrick carry-on. I also have a cable knit zip-up cardigan that belonged to my grandmother but looks something like this current model. The train will bring me to Quebec City, where I have not yet been but will be staying at the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Work can be such a drag. —Charlie Hobbs, associate editor

Hôtel Crillon le Brave

Courtesy Hôtel Crillon le Brave

I’ve learned from years of experience that your choice of bag has the power to make or break an outing while traveling. Bringing along something too big, like a tote or carryall, can result in accidental overpacking or back aches. But you run the risk of not having enough space if you only pack smaller, trendier styles, like a micro bag, for a day on the go. Thankfully, there are some amazing shoulder bags on the market for fall—all designed to work hard in your travel wardrobe— so you no longer have to forgo function for fashion.

To determine which style is best suited for your time away, you must consider not only the destination you’re heading to, but also your itinerary once you arrive. Those that are exploring the great outdoors need something that can really do it all, which is where something like Bagsmart’s Reiki hobo bag comes in handy, thanks to its leakproof compartments and expandable design. Verified’s Eclair bag, on the other hand, is a perfect pairing for your next work trip, and all the various activities that might come along with it. Other standout styles include Telfar’s genius interpretation of a classic plastic shopping bag (you’ve got to see it), which has a surprisingly well-organized interior that makes it ideal for travel.

Whether you’re looking for something to carry while en route to your destination, or a style you can wear every day once you’re on the ground, there are plenty of stylish and practical options available right now. Read on for our top 10 picks for the best shoulder bags to travel with this season.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Fall at Universal Orlando is one of my favorite Florida trips to take — the weather’s decent, the decorations scream autumn, and there’s just something about visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter during the season that seems extra magical. If you feel the same and already have a fall getaway to Universal Orlando brewing, you probably have visions of hitting your go-to rides after dark and sipping Butterbeer while you soak up all the nighttime park energy. But there’s one thing you may not realize, and it’s the kind of crucial detail that could derail your trip if you don’t plan accordingly.

Here’s the thing: Come spooky season, park hours look a little different.

From late August through early November, Universal Studios Florida closes early on select nights — sometimes as early as 5 p.m. — to make way for Halloween Horror Nights, the highly anticipated (and massive) after-hours seasonal event. If you’re going specifically for HHN, this works to your advantage. If haunted houses aren’t your scene, though, you’ll be ushered out of the park before you might expect.

It’s a super-easy detail to miss if you’re not in the loop about Florida theme park news, and it can understandably be a major bummer not to realize until you’ve already arrived and headed over to hop on Revenge of the Mummy after dinner… only to be told it’s time to pack it in for the night.

So, here’s everything you need to know about Universal Orlando’s fall hours so that you can plan accordingly.

Which dates are affected?

This year, Halloween Horror Nights runs from Aug. 29 through Nov. 2 on select nights (typically Wednesday through Sunday, with a few Tuesdays sprinkled in). On these days, Universal Studios Florida closes at 5 p.m.

However, to offset this early closure, the park will also open an hour earlier — at 8 a.m. So, when you’re strategizing about how to spend your park days, make sure you consider that. I would recommend either getting up early and “rope dropping” Universal Studios Florida on HHN days to make the most of your time in the park, or arriving and leaving with enough time to avoid the HHN crowd as they file into the park.

What about the other parks?

Since HHN takes place at Universal Studios, the other parks aren’t affected as much during the fall. Still, I always recommend double-checking the park hours on the days you plan to visit. For the most part during the summer, the park hours have been 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, 10 a.m. to 9 or 10 p.m. for Epic Universe, and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for Volcano Bay.

As we move into fall, you’ll notice some fluctuations in those hours, with the park closing times shifting by an hour or two many nights. Islands of Adventure even closes as early as 6 p.m. on HHN Tuesdays, and then at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. on other nights. But none differ as drastically as the hours for Universal Studios during HHN season.

Oh, and while CityWalk isn’t a park, it’s a blast and deserves to be recognized more. During HHN, CityWalk remains open for shopping and dining (even when the parks close early) from 8 a.m. to midnight on Mondays and non-HHN Tuesdays and from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. on HHN days.

What are some hacks for planning around HHN?

If your family wants to maximize your park time but honestly doesn’t have any interest in being haunted, spooked, or otherwise creeped out like the rest of us freaks, there are definitely some workarounds:

• Check park hours in advance. Seriously, I can’t state this enough. Universal posts hours months in advance on their website, so look before you book.
• Go on Mondays or non-HHN Tuesdays. There are few things I love more than a theme park on a weekday! The crowds are generally lower, and during HHN season, you’re also able to squeeze in a little more time if you go on these days. Besides, everyone should witness the dragon breathing fire atop Gringott’s at night at least once.
• Hit up other parks in the evenings. This sounds obvious, but not everyone books tickets to park-hop every day. If you’re only visiting Universal Studios, or even if you are visiting more than one park but aren’t getting park-to-park passes, make sure to schedule your Universal Studios visit for non-HHN nights. Pro tip: Epic Universe at night is incredible.
• Take advantage of the earlier start time. Toss back some coffee and get up and out before the morning rush.
• Line up child care and have a grown-ups night out! If you don’t plan on bringing the grandparents along to help out, plenty of reputable local services offer childcare for theme park stays. This is the way to go if anyone in your adult crew is into scares — the event is an absolute must for horror buffs.

How late can you stay if you do HHN?

Here’s where having that childcare lined up comes in clutch, because HHN ends *late* at night. The closing time varies, but it’s generally either 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. Just remember that this is a separately ticketed event, so you’ll need to wait until the official start time to enter the park.

Unless you splurge, that is. The “Scream Early” add-on lets you check into the park as early as 3 p.m. so you can knock out some rides or shows before heading to the Haunted Houses or scare zones at 4 p.m. Feeling super spooky? Upgrade your experience with other “extras,” like the HHN Express Pass (to get front-of-the-line access).

The Bottom Line

Even with the added logistical maneuvering, it’s 100% worth traveling to Universal Orlando in the fall. The decorations, the energy, the costumes, the seasonal food — it’s every bit as magical as you’re imagining. As long as you factor in the early closing time at Universal Studios when you book your trip, you won’t be disappointed.

Looking for the best places to visit in September USA? September is the ideal time for a trip, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. It’s the perfect shoulder season to enjoy vibrant fall colors, outdoor activities, and iconic attractions.

Whether you’re planning a New England foliage adventure, a road trip through the mountains, or a coastal escape, this guide covers the best destinations to make the most of your September vacation. From Sedona’s red rocks to Napa’s harvest season and Maine’s rugged coastline, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

Why Travel in September in the USA?

September is the perfect shoulder season for a US vacation. You’ll enjoy fewer tourists, mild weather, lower hotel rates, vibrant fall colors, and a mix of summer adventures and cozy autumn vibes.

Quick List: Best Places to Visit in September USA

September is one of the best months to explore the USA thanks to mild weather, early fall colors, and fewer tourists. Here are some top places to visit:

• Santa Barbara, California: Coastal culture & sunsets
• Sedona, Arizona: Red rock hikes & spiritual energy
• Lake Tahoe, California: Fall foliage & outdoor fun
• Bar Harbor, Maine: Coastal charm & Acadia adventures
• Chicago, Illinois: Architecture, lakefront, and festivals
• Hudson Valley, New York: Apple picking & scenic drives
• Oregon Coast: Whale watching & iconic beaches
• Charleston, South Carolina: Historic streets & gardens
• San Diego, California: Endless summer beaches
• Taos, New Mexico: Art & Native American heritage
• Moab, Utah: Hiking & desert landscapes

More Of The Best Places to Visit In The USA By Season

Introduction to September Travel

September is one of our favorite months to explore the USA. It’s a perfect blend of summer warmth and crisp fall air, offering the best of both worlds. You’ll dodge the heavy summer heat and big crowds, making it easier to enjoy popular attractions without long lines.

As the shoulder season kicks in, hotel rates drop, flights are often cheaper, and you’ll find more services and experiences available without the peak-season rush. Many parks and hiking trails are still open and welcoming, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Whether you’re taking a road trip through New England to see vibrant fall colors, soaking up beach days in California before winter, or exploring the rugged beauty of Washington’s national parks, September offers unbeatable variety. From apple picking in the Hudson Valley to wine tastings in Napa Valley and epic leaf-peeping in the Smoky Mountains, there’s something for every kind of traveler — couples, families with kids, or solo adventurers.

So pack your layers, grab your camera, and take advantage of this sweet spot before winter snow and holiday crowds arrive. September is truly the best time to hit the road and discover the USA in a whole new light.

1. Sedona, Arizona

A September trip to Sedona is all about stunning views, cooler weather, and fewer crowds. With average highs in the 70s, it’s a great time to hit the hiking trails or explore the many parks without the intense summer heat.

We’ll never forget hiking Cathedral Rock at golden hour, the way the light bounced off the red rock formations felt almost spiritual. It’s the kind of place that stops you in your tracks.

Top Things to Do

• Hike to Devil’s Bridge for panoramic views
• Take a jeep or ATV tour through red rock canyons
• Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross and explore spiritual vortex sites
• Join guided hikes in Red Rock State Park
• Try a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye account of Sedona‘s epic scenery

Local Tip
Mid September is an ideal time when temperatures are comfortable and hotel rates begin to drop.

2. Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe in September is nature’s playground. It’s still warm enough for swimming and water sports, but cool enough for mountain hikes. You’ll catch vibrant fall colors reflecting on the lake’s surface, making it a picture-perfect vacation spot.

We rented paddleboards on a whim and ended up watching the sun set from the middle of the lake. The water was glassy and still, one of those spontaneous moments that feels like a scene from a movie.

Top Things to Do

• Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail or Eagle Lake Trail
• Kayak, paddleboard, or swim in the lake
• Attend Sample the Sierra festival for local eats and drinks
• Take a scenic drive to see vibrant fall foliage
• Relax at Sand Harbor Beach

Local Tip
September is a shoulder season advantage, offering fewer crowds and better access to popular spots.

3. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is a dreamy New England getaway. September brings crisp air, colorful foliage in Acadia National Park, and lower hotel rates. You’ll experience the magic of early fall without the big summer crowds.

Top Things to Do

• Hike Cadillac Mountain or the Beehive Trail for stunning views
• Kayak in Frenchman Bay
• Ride the Downeast Scenic Railroad
• Stroll the Shore Path at sunrise
• Eat lobster rolls and blueberry pie downtown

Local Tip
Book sunrise permits for Cadillac Mountain early as it’s a popular time for photographers.

4. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is at its best in September. The summer heat is gone, making it a great time to explore the city’s lakefront, architecture, and vibrant festivals.

Top Things to Do

• Stroll or bike the Lakefront Trail
• Take an architecture boat tour
• Enjoy Chicago Jazz Festival and World Music Festival
• Visit Millennium Park and the Art Institute
• Try local eats at farmers markets and food festivals

Local Tip
Check for outdoor concerts and rooftop patios, as this is the last big push before winter arrives.

5. Hudson Valley, New York

Hudson Valley in mid September is all about apple picking, vineyard hopping, and scenic drives. Fall colors start popping, and local farms welcome visitors with open arms.

We found this roadside farm stand near Rhinebeck that sold hot cider and apple cider donuts. Safe to say, we turned a 10-minute stop into a full hour, and came back the next day for more.

Top Things to Do

• Go apple picking and taste fresh cider
• Visit art galleries and sculpture parks during Upstate Art Weekend
• Drive along the Hudson River for beautiful views
• Hike in Minnewaska State Park or along many parks in the area
• Check out charming towns and markets

Local Tip
September is a shoulder season sweet spot with fewer tourists and great hotel deals.

6. Oregon Coast, Oregon

The Oregon Coast offers a refreshing September trip, with mild weather perfect for coastal hikes and whale watching. Cannon Beach is our favourite. WE do recommend doing sunset there, like we did.

Top Things to Do

• Visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
• Tour Sea Lion Caves and watch migrating whales
• Drive Highway 101 for scenic ocean views
• Explore coastal state parks and tidepools
• Eat fresh seafood and sample craft beers

Local Tip
Pack a windbreaker because coastal winds can be strong even on sunny days.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s charming streets and historic homes shine in September. Lower humidity and mild temps make it a great time to wander, and the city feels vibrant with events and markets. We took a walking tour, and the guide sang gospel in the middle of a church courtyard. It was one of those unexpected, moving travel moments that stays with you.

Top Things to Do

• Visit Rainbow Row and the historic district
• Shop at Charleston City Market
• Tour Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
• Take a harbor sunset cruise
• Explore hidden gardens and courtyards

Local Tip
September is still hurricane season so keep an eye on forecasts and travel insurance options.

8. San Diego, California

San Diego delivers an endless summer vibe in September. With warm weather, clear skies, and fun festivals, it’s an ideal time to visit before winter rain arrives.

Top Things to Do

• Relax at La Jolla Shores or Coronado Beach
• Visit Balboa Park’s museums and gardens
• Enjoy the San Diego Zoo and animal encounters
• Go surfing or swimming in the Pacific
• Check out San Diego Restaurant Week

Local Tip
Morning beach visits offer the calmest water and open parking spots.

9. Taos, New Mexico

A September vacation to Taos offers art, history, and outdoor adventure in a stunning high desert setting. It is a place you have probably never heard of, but trust us, you should definitely add this to the September travel list.

Top Things to Do

• Tour Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Hike in Carson National Forest
• Explore Ledoux Street art galleries
• Visit historic churches like San Francisco de Asis
• Eat traditional New Mexican cuisine

Local Tip
Evenings cool down fast so layers are a good idea.

10. Moab, Utah

Moab’s red rock landscapes are spectacular in September. The weather is cooler, making it a great time to hit the hiking trails and explore two iconic national parks.

Top Things to Do

• Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
• Explore Canyonlands’ viewpoints and trails
• Bike the famous Slickrock Trail
• Raft the Colorado River
• Camp under star-filled desert skies

Local Tip
September is a popular time so book campsites and tours early.

11. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara combines luxury and laid-back beach life in September. It’s warm enough for swimming and beach days and cool enough for wine tasting and festivals.

Top Things to Do

• Sail or kayak along the coast
• Explore State Street shops and art galleries
• Visit local wineries and tasting rooms
• Check out the Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival
• Enjoy sunset views at Butterfly Beach

Local Tip
Weekends book up quickly so plan ahead.

12. Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley shines in September during harvest season. Crisp mornings and sunny afternoons create perfect conditions for vineyard tours and outdoor activities. We accidentally timed our visit with the grape harvest, and let’s just say the free tastings and crisp morning walks through the vineyards turned us into early-rising wine lovers.

Top Things to Do

• Attend grape harvest and wine tasting events
• Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train
• Try a hot air balloon ride for panoramic views
• Enjoy farm-to-table restaurants
• Bike through scenic vineyard routes

Local Tip
September is the most popular time to visit so tasting reservations are essential.

13. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a fantastic September trip idea with early hints of fall color and a lively arts scene.

Top Things to Do

• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views
• Visit Biltmore Estate and gardens
• Hike in Pisgah National Forest
• Attend food and art festivals like Goombay
• Enjoy local breweries and music venues

Local Tip
September weekdays are quieter for leaf peeping and trails.

14. Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC

The Smoky Mountains are perfect for a September trip, with cooler days and fewer visitors. One of our favorite September mornings started with fog drifting through the trees on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The quiet, the color, and the smell of damp forest made us slow down and just breathe it all in.

Top Things to Do

• Hike Chimney Tops or Alum Cave
• Bike or drive Cades Cove Loop
• Watch sunset from Clingmans Dome
• Go fly fishing in mountain streams
• Explore Gatlinburg’s harvest festivals

Local Tip
Start early to see wildlife and beat afternoon rain showers.

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston in September feels alive with fall energy. Mild days are ideal for walking tours and outdoor attractions before the snow and winter chill set in.

Top Things to Do

• Walk the Freedom Trail
• Visit Fenway Park or catch a Red Sox game
• Take a Boston Harbor cruise
• Check out Boston Arts Festival
• Explore markets and historic neighborhoods

Local Tip
Book tours ahead as September weekends are popular.

16. Denver, Colorado

We’ve always found Denver to be one of those cities that surprises you, in the best way. September hits that sweet spot between summer heat and fall crispness, making it perfect for rooftop dinners, day hikes just outside the city, or catching a Rockies game without melting in the sun. Once, we ended up at a local bluegrass festival in RiNo and ended the night two-stepping with strangers. Denver knows how to make visitors feel like locals.

Top Things to Do

• Day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
• Hike Red Rocks Park or Mount Falcon
• Visit Great American Beer Festival
• Explore art districts like RiNo
• Enjoy Denver Botanic Gardens

Local Tip
September weekends are a great time for mountain cabin getaways before winter snow arrives.

17. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes region is magical during September. With the grape harvest underway and waterfalls flowing, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. We stumbled on a small vineyard offering wood-fired pizza and wine flights on the patio, no reservation needed. By sunset, we were swapping travel stories with the owner over a glass of rosé. We love moments like these.

Top Things to Do

• Taste wine along Seneca and Keuka Lake trails
• Hike around Taughannock Falls State Park
• Kayak or sail on the lakes
• Visit Naples Grape Festival
• Explore small towns like Skaneateles

Local Tip
Book lakeside cabins early as fall is a popular time for romantic escapes.

18. New Orleans, Louisiana

September is a great time to visit New Orleans, when the summer heat finally breaks and festival season kicks in. Having visited New Orleans on several occasions, you can be sure there will be no shortage of things to see and do.

Top Things to Do

• Attend Beignet Fest and Fried Chicken Festival
• Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi
• Listen to jazz on Frenchmen Street
• Explore the Garden District
• Check out local art galleries and markets

Local Tip
Book early as festival weekends fill fast.

19. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe in September has this golden glow, like the adobe walls are soaking up the sun and radiating calm. On our last visit, we wandered into a courtyard during the Fiesta de Santa Fe and found ourselves eating roasted chiles and dancing with a mariachi band. It’s not just about the art galleries (though they’re incredible), it’s the scent of piñon wood in the air, the warm hospitality, and the way the town pulses with culture.

Top Things to Do

• Attend Wine and Chile Fiesta
• Visit Canyon Road galleries
• Hike Santa Fe National Forest trails
• Tour adobe churches and museums
• Browse local farmers markets

Local Tip
September is shoulder season so you can enjoy lower hotel rates and more space.

20. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

There’s something soul-soothing about driving Skyline Drive in mid-September before the leaf-peeping crowds arrive. We spent a full day hopping between overlooks and hiking trails, chasing light through the trees. One morning, we watched deer graze beside our cabin as fog rolled through the valley. If you’re craving crisp mountain air and a slower pace, this is one of the most peaceful corners of the East Coast.

Top Things to Do

• Drive Skyline Drive for colorful vistas
• Hike Old Rag or Stony Man
• Visit Luray Caverns
• Join ranger-led wildlife walks
• Stargaze at Big Meadows

Local Tip
Plan a midweek visit to enjoy quieter trails and services.

21. Portland, Maine

Every time we visit Portland in September, it feels like the city is in its element. Food trucks are buzzing, the air smells like coffee and pine, and everyone’s out biking or hiking before the rain returns. One afternoon, we biked the Springwater Corridor and ended up at a craft cider festival we didn’t even know was happening. Portland thrives in this in-between season, and it’s the perfect mix of urban cool and Pacific Northwest nature.

Top Things to Do

• Try local seafood at Harvest on the Harbor
• Visit Casco Bay Islands by ferry
• Tour Portland Head Light
• Explore Old Port’s shops and restaurants
• Sip local craft beers outdoors

Local Tip
September is an ideal time to try lobster rolls before seasonal spots close.

22. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia offers crisp air and rugged coastline, making it one of the best places for a September trip. We once woke up at 4:30 am just to catch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. Totally worth it. There’s something special about being one of the first people in the U.S. to see the sun rise that day.

Top Things to Do

• Hike Cadillac Mountain or Gorham Mountain
• Bike the car-free carriage roads
• Paddle in Frenchman Bay
• Drive Park Loop Road
• Join ranger stargazing programs

Local Tip
Get sunrise permits for Cadillac Mountain well in advance.

We love September because it feels like the country is taking a deep breath after the summer rush. The trails are quieter, the sunsets are golden, and there’s a certain magic in the air as fall begins to roll in.

Whether you’re road tripping through New England, catching the last warm days at the beach, or chasing mountain views, there’s no better time to get out there and explore. Trust us — you’ll come home with stories (and photos) you’ll be talking about all year.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in September in The USA

What are the best places to visit in the USA in September?

Top picks include Sedona, Lake Tahoe, Bar Harbor, Hudson Valley, Asheville, Napa Valley, and Acadia National Park.

Where is the best fall foliage in September USA?

Hudson Valley, Acadia National Park, and the Smoky Mountains show vibrant fall colors starting mid September.

Is September a good month to visit US national parks?

Yes. It’s a great time thanks to fewer crowds, open trails, and mild weather across many parks like Acadia, Shenandoah, and Mount Rainier.

Are these destinations budget-friendly in September?

Yes. Lower hotel rates and shoulder season deals make it more affordable than peak summer.

What festivals happen in September USA?

Wine harvest festivals in Napa and Finger Lakes, jazz in Chicago and New Orleans, food festivals in Santa Fe and San Diego, and art events in Boston.