20 Best Destinations for a September Getaway—From Harvest Festivals to Beach Escapes

Key Points

• A shoulder season in many destinations, September typically offers fewer crowds and lower prices for travel.

• The month tends to be warm but not too hot, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and even beach days in some places.

• Travelers can enjoy seasonal highlights like harvest festivals and cultural experiences.

If you've been waiting for summer vacationers to head back to work or school so you can enjoy your favorite—or new—destinations without the crowds, now is the time to plan your travel. Warm weather continues in many locations, prices may be lower, and restaurant and tour reservations are often easier to secure. With that said, we've compiled a variety of nearby and far-off places for you to explore. Here are our suggestions for your ideal September vacation.

Jersey Shore, New Jersey

More than 90 miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches , a variety of cities and towns, lighthouses, entertainment venues, restaurants, and fresh local produce make the Jersey Shore a great vacation destination. In September, summer crowds have gone, but the weather and ocean waves are still warm. There's always something to do on the Atlantic City Boardwalk with the historic Steel Pier amusement park rides. For nightlife, there are casinos, clubs, restaurants, and concerts. Jersey Shore September events include the Wildwoods Airshow with performances by military jets, vintage aircraft, stunt pilots, and precision parachute teams. Wildwoods beaches, known for their rock 'n roll history, are free, and there's live music, amusement park rides, and a two-mile boardwalk. Further south, charming Cape May is one of the country's oldest resort destinations with nearly 600 preserved Victorian buildings.

Where to Stay:In Atlantic City, stay at Ocean Casino Resort , Borgata Hotel Casino , or Caesar's Atlantic City . In Asbury Park, choose Asbury Ocean Club . In Cape May, The Virginia Hotel is an adults-only boutique, and Congress Hall is America's oldest seaside resort. The boutique James Bradley in Bradley Beach is a block from the boardwalk.

Telluride, Colorado

It may be a favorite for winter sports, but Telluride, with its National Historic Landmark District, is a perfect September destination. High in southwestern Colorado's San Juan Mountains, the Old West-style mountain town hosts late summer/early fall events that earned it the nickname "Festival Capital of the Rockies." While Labor Day Weekend's annual Telluride Film Festival may be the best-known, there are plenty of happenings later in the month, including the family-friendly Telluride Blues & Brews Festival with multiple stages, an eclectic mix of music genres, craft brews, kids' activities, a 5K race, food, and morning yoga sessions. Celebrating motorcycles, aircraft, and exotic vehicles, the Telluride Autumn Classic includes live music and art, and Corvette fans won't want to miss Corvettes & Colors for three days of cool cars. Between festivals, there's time to enjoy the views with a ride on the free gondola, a scenic hike, a canoe trip, a zipline tour, and more outdoor activities.

Where to Stay:Offering guest rooms, suites, and spacious private residences, Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection recently debuted Crest Club , a private membership community. With Exceptional Stays , you can choose from a variety of vacation homes.

Greenville, South Carolina

Where else can you find a waterfall in the center of the city, a tree-shaded walkable downtown, street art, and a stunning pedestrian bridge overlooking 32 acres of streams, rock formations, and greenery? In addition to all that, Greenville is one of the best food cities in the country , with inventive new restaurants opening regularly. I fell in love with Greenville on a solo visit a few years ago with a delightful lunch overlooking the park after a quiet stroll among downtown boutiques. The sound of flowing water blended with music from a nearby guitar-playing singer, and I was hooked. I returned for the annual culinary celebration, Euphoria , where top chefs, local restaurants, wineries, and entertainment highlight the best of Greenville. Fall for Greenville in October brings another opportunity to indulge in the city's culinary attractions. Whether you visit for a festival, the park, or a performance at one of Greenville's many venues, you'll find, as I did, that your first visit won't be your last.

Where to Stay:Originally the home of a prominent family, Hotel Hartness blends historic architecture with contemporary design. Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, Autograph Collection in downtown's Falls Park is a convenient choice for exploring.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

For one of the most authentic Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Munich, plan a visit to Frankenmuth , called "Little Bavaria" for its German heritage and architecture. During the festival, which is actually celebrated in September, there's German beer from Munich-based Hofbrauhaus, the official sponsor, making Frankenmuth the first U.S. city to import the brew. German bands, dancing, food, wiener-dog races, and a scaled-down version of a German beer hall are all part of the fun. Located about 90 miles from Detroit, the city also hosts Frankenmuth Auto Fest with classic cars, competitions, drone show, and more than 40 German amphibious cars floating in the Cass River. The Fire Arts Festival features workshops, blacksmithing demonstrations, and more. Visit Frankenmuth in winter for a classic German-style holiday market and Zehnder's Snowfest with family entertainment, ice carvings, a petting zoo, and fireworks.

Where to Stay:There's a variety of places to stay in Frankenmuth, from bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals and hotels. German-style rooms in Bavarian Inn Restaurant & Lodge and Marv Herzog Hotel keep up with the local theme.

San Antonio, Texas

It's still summer in San Antonio with daytime highs around 90 degrees, which makes it a perfect time for a narrated boat tour along the San Antonio River Walk to learn about local history and architecture, or a stroll along the pathways for restaurants, shops, and atmosphere. Visitors won't want to miss the Pullman Market dining complex or chef and restaurateur Jason Dady' s dining spots, from Italian cuisine to award-winning barbecue. Historical places, including The Alamo , must be on every first-time visitor's itinerary, along with San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , both designated as World Heritage sites. Called the " Theme Park Capital of Texas ," San Antonio is a family favorite destination, and parks include the fully wheelchair accessible Morgan's Wonderland. Plenty of free things to do also make San Antonio an attractive vacation destination.

Where to Stay: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk and Hotel Emma are excellent choices. There's also JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa , Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa , and Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Villas .

Finger Lakes, New York

This year-round destination, named for the eleven long, narrow lakes that resemble fingers, is located within a day's drive from Manhattan, Philadelphia, and Boston in western New York state. The weather cools into the 70s in September, when the famed wine-growing region begins harvest celebrations. The Naples Grape Festival includes music, art, food, craft beers, ciders, and the "Greatest Grape Pie Contest," an annual tradition. The Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival highlights local farmers with tastings of apples, ciders, baked goods, and cider doughnuts. The Rochester Fringe Festival features a variety of multidisciplinary artistic events. Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is a beautiful stop in the area, with waterfalls, forests, hiking trails, and a spectacular gorge carved by the Genesee River.

Where to Stay: Lake House on Canandaigua and the Hotel Ithaca are both top-notch options. From historic inns to grand resorts, the Finger Lakes area offers a range of places to stay.

Taos, New Mexico

Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains about 70 miles from Santa Fe, Taos offers natural beauty and ideal weather for outdoor activities in September. Hiking trails take visitors to gorgeous views, wildlife, and the spectacular Rio Grande Gorge with an iconic bridge. Road trippers will enjoy the 84-mile Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway , a drive around New Mexico's highest peak. At nearly 7,000 feet in altitude, Taos sees the arrival of fall foliage season in September, when aspen trees turn colorful shades of orange and yellow. Michael Hearne's Big Barn Dance Music Festival features country, folk, and bluegrass music, and the Taos Fall Arts Festival takes place later in the month. Taos Pueblo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fascinating look at the area's history with ancient adobe dwellings and a thriving Native American community. For travel convenience, JSX offers seasonal flights through September to Taos Regional Airport from Dallas and Austin.

Where to Stay: Hotel Willa highlights Taos' creative heritage with an Artist-in-Residence program and an on-site gallery with rotating exhibitions.

Highway 30A, Florida

Located on northwest Florida's Gulf Coast, the beach towns along Florida Panhandle's Highway 30A are sometimes referred to as "Hamptons of the South" or the "Crown Jewel of the Southern Riviera" for their beauty and style. September in Florida means warm weather, less rain, and fewer crowds before the arrival of winter's snowbirds from the chilly north. A drive along the 26 miles of 30A takes visitors past Old Florida architecture with Southern-style porches and overhangs and through communities that include Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach, Seagrove, and Blue Mountain Beach. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park features freshwater dune lakes, pine forests, wetlands, and pristine beaches. There's fishing, paddling, and miles of coastal forest trails at Grayton Beach State Park and a boardwalk across the dunes at Deer Lake State Park .

Where to Stay: Topsail Outfitters offers luxury glamping at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. For a luxury experience, stay at Kaiya Beach Resort in Inlet Beach, with spacious residences that are ideal for families or groups.

Napa Valley, California

September's warm weather, harvest parties, and lively atmosphere make it a great time to visit wine country. Wine lovers thrill to see the grapes picked and processed at the wineries during this celebratory time. However, there's plenty to do , even without one sip of Napa Valley's outstanding wines. Exceptional restaurants, Calistoga mud baths, hot air balloon tours, the Napa Valley Wine Train , golf at Silverado Resort , falconry demonstrations at Bouchaine , and cooking classes at Cakebread Cellars are more ways to enjoy Napa Valley. With temperatures in the 80s, it's still pool weather, and Napa Valley resorts offer luxurious spas as well. Two museums feature special exhibits. Keep in mind that harvest season is the busiest time of year, so make your reservations well in advance. You can fly directly into Napa Valley from certain cities, including Los Angeles , on semi-private JSX .

Where to Stay:T+L offers suggestions for the best hotels in Napa Valley . Four Seasons Resort & Residences , Meadowood , Alila Napa Valley , and Carneros Resort & Spa are excellent options.

Asheville, North Carolina

This vibrant western North Carolina city, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, is welcoming visitors to return to its natural beauty and celebrated culinary scene. Also known for its bluegrass roots, art, and historic architecture, Asheville is home to the iconic Biltmore Estate , America's largest privately owned home, set on more than 8,000 acres. I was thrilled to tour the Estate a few years ago after reading about its construction and the life of George Vanderbilt, who was captivated by the area's beauty, just as visitors are today. Asheville boasts a walkable downtown with art galleries and shops, as well as more than 30 breweries and many award-winning restaurants. September temperatures in the 70s are ideal for being outdoors and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Where to Stay: The Grand Bohemian Lodge Asheville mixes modern luxury with old-world alpine style, and The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa features a subterranean spa with mineral pools. Recently renovated, The Inn on Biltmore Estate offers a chance to stay on the grounds of the storied property. The Flat Iron Hotel is a charming boutique, and Asheville River Cabins offer both family and adults-only accommodations.

Iceland

September is considered shoulder season in Iceland , and after the busier summer months, you'll find fewer visitors and pleasant weather with daytime temperatures in the 50s. A chill in the air will make Iceland's hot springs especially appealing, and there's still ample daylight for sightseeing, along with the possibility of seeing the northern lights at night. Often called "The Land of Fire and Ice," Iceland isn't as icy as it sounds; there are waterfalls, volcanoes, lava fields, glaciers, and stunning landscapes to explore. September's annual tradition of Rettir is when farmers bring their sheep down from the mountains, an exciting thing to see with farmers, dogs, and even drones guiding the sheep to the farms for winter. In Iceland's capital, the Reykjavik International Film Festival typically occurs at the end of the month. If you're planning to take advantage of September's shoulder season prices, be sure to pack clothing for the variety of weather you might encounter—and leave some space for souvenirs, of course.

Where to Stay: Hotel Rangá , on the south coast, features an on-site observatory and geothermal hot tubs. Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll is a luxury option. Other top picks include The Retreat at Blue Lagoon , Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon , and Silica Hotel .

Santorini, Greece

Known for gorgeous sunsets, plush resorts, whitewashed buildings, and colorful beaches, Santorini is one of the most popular islands in the Cyclades. While Santorini's summer visitor numbers begin to taper off in September, the weather is still warm, and hotels and restaurants remain open through the month. It may be tempting to spend all day on the beach or poolside, but there are fascinating archaeological sites to explore, like the prehistoric city of Akrotiri , which has been compared to Italy's Pompeii, as it was also covered by the ashes of a volcanic eruption. A boat ride or sunset cruise around the island is a great way to enjoy it from another perspective and also to appreciate the beauty of the clear sea. Be sure to sample Greek wines, especially Assyrtiko, Santorini's specialty, and enjoy the delicious cuisine.

Where to Stay:We've rounded up some of the best hotels in Santorini for you to choose from.

Ibiza, Spain

Warm weather continues into September in Ibiza, one of Spain's Balearic Islands , and sea temperatures are perfect for swimming. More than 80 beaches provide options from quiet coves to lively beach clubs. While some visitors are leaving, many are still enjoying beach parties, nightlife, and events like the Territori Performance Art Festival . Spanning areas of both Ibiza and Formentera and the waters between them, Ses Salines Natural Park offers hiking trails, cliffs, beaches, and forests to explore. Mountain biking, golf, tennis, and kayaking are more ways to enjoy the outdoors and Ibiza's beautiful scenery. September is harvest season, so winery tours and tastings are a great way to learn about local grapes, including Monastrell and Garnacha for red wines and Malvasia for white wine.

Where to Stay: Ibiza Gran Hotel features a casino and acclaimed dining. Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay , NH Collection , Iberostar , and Six Senses Ibiza are excellent options.

Sydney, Australia

It's early spring in the southern hemisphere in September, and Sydney's weather is mild and dry with daytime temperatures in the 60s. While it may not be swimming weather, locals head to Bondi Beach for the annual Festival of the Winds , Australia's largest flying kite festival, held each September. Starting at Bondi Beach, the Bondi to Manly coastal walk covers 50 miles, but you can choose how far you want to walk from a variety of itineraries. The capital and largest city in New South Wales, Sydney hosts the Sydney Fringe Festival , featuring more than 350 events including theater, comedy, dance, music, visual arts, and circus acts in about 70 venues throughout the city. The iconic Sydney Opera House always has outstanding performances, and you can visit for a tour or a meal at the restaurant, as well as a show.

Where to Stay:The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney , Capella Sydney , and Ace Hotel Sydney remain favorite options among travelers.

Bordeaux, France

Known for its famed wines, Bordeaux is lovely in September, when temperatures are in the mid 70s, with crisp autumn evenings. September is in the midst of the harvest season, an exciting time for winery tours, tastings, and festivals. Learn about wine in the stunning setting of the interactive La Cité du Vin museum with tasting workshops, exhibits, restaurants, and boutiques. The "Miroir d'Eau" or Water Mirror , located across from Place de la Bourse, is a sight not to miss, and a stroll or bike ride along the banks of the Garonne River offers gorgeous views and a relaxing way to experience the city. River cruises, including Viking, AmaWaterways , and UniWorld Boutique River Cruises , offer excellent itineraries embarking in Bordeaux, another way to get acquainted with the area.

Where to Stay:Options in Bordeaux range from five-star hotels to apartments, campsites, and hostels. Cabot Bordeaux , set on 400 acres with two 18-hole championship golf courses, offers a 79-room hotel, restaurant, and world-class spa. The Intercontinental Bordeaux , located in the historic area of the city, features several restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a spa by Guerlain.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Known as "Canada's Food Island," Prince Edward Island is a culinary star in the fall, with two festivals showcasing its rich heritage. The PEI International Shellfish Festival celebrates the island's renowned shellfish with freshly shucked oysters, entertainment, and cooking competitions, including the Garland Canada International Chef Challenge . Later in the month, the Fall Flavours Food & Drink Festival is held at locations throughout the island with culinary experiences from intimate tastings to casual buffets. After all that food, a hike might be in order, and the island's many hiking trails are great ways to visit small towns and enjoy local dishes. The 435-mile trail that loops around the perimeter of the island, Canada's smallest province, passes through beaches and towns with plenty of gorgeous scenery along the way.

Where to Stay: Dalvay by the Sea is located within Prince Edward Island National Park. From campsites and cottages to hotels and resorts, PEI offers a variety of places to stay.

Barcelona, Spain

Most summer vacations are over when September rolls around, and you'll find fewer tourists at popular spots like Antoni Gaudí's Basilica de la Sagrada Familia . While overtourism has been a concern in Barcelona, waiting until the height of the season is over will make the trip more enjoyable, especially since the weather is mild and pleasant. Harvest season offers opportunities for grape picking, vineyard exploring, and wine tasting as part of a special experience at nearby vineyards like Can Calopa , Barcelona's centuries-old wine estate. The city's patron saint is honored with a major cultural celebration, La Mercè , when music, traditional dances, entertainment, and fireworks fill the city with free events. Nearby, the Catalan town of Vic hosts the Mercat de Música de Vic , featuring concerts at indoor and outdoor venues throughout the city.

Where to Stay:Luxury options include Grand Hotel Central and Wittmore Hotel , Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties , SLS Barcelona , The Hoxton , and Hotel Arts Barcelona .

Egypt

Egypt cools off a bit in September—but still in the high 80s, but slightly more pleasant than the summer months—and fewer visitors make it more comfortable as well. The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum , the world's largest archaeological museum, opened in 2025, with more than 100,000 artifacts from over 7,000 years of history. The popularity of Egypt and the Nile River has led to many ways of exploring, including river cruises by UniWorld Boutique Cruises , Viking River Cruises , and AmaWaterways . The intimate Oberoi Melouk and Malekat Luxury Nile Dahabeyes accommodates 14 guests in seven spacious cabins and suites. The two-masted sailing barge, Poppee , is part of the fleet operated by Nour el Nil , and Abercrombie & Kent also offers luxury Nile cruises.

Where to Stay:I stayed at the downtown Cairo Nile Ritz-Carlton during my visit, and the river view was spectacular.

Malta

Known for its well-preserved medieval fortresses, museums, archaeological sites, wineries, beaches , and clear seas, Malta is a popular destination for expats and retirees , as well as vacationers. September weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures in the mid to high 70s. The island country is located about 58 miles south of Sicily, and from the Sicilian ports of Pozzallo or Catania, a ferry takes around two hours. The island of Gozo is a popular vacation spot, with gorgeous Ramla beach. Malta celebrates Independence Day on Sept. 21 each year, a national holiday commemorating the country's political independence from Great Britain in 1964. It's a time of official ceremonies, concerts, and parades. Also celebrated in September is Victory Day on the 8th, highlighting three victories in Malta's history, with festivities including a regatta in the Grand Harbour.

Where to Stay: Casa Ellul , a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, is a charming boutique in Valletta. Five-star Iniala Harbour House & Residences is also in Valletta. AC Hotel St. Julian's and Hyatt Centric Malta are located in St. Julian's, Malta's premier resort town. Seaside Barceló Fortina Malta offers stunning Mediterranean views.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

September is one of the best times to visit Dubrovnik , after the peak summer crowds have departed, and the air and water temperatures are still pleasantly warm. Visitors to the historic city can enjoy stunning views and get their daily steps in with a mile-long walk along the city walls overlooking Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. Seeing Dubrovnik with a day cruise around the islands is another way to explore the area, and most stop at secluded coves for a swim or an afternoon on a secluded beach. Kayaking, hiking, and biking are among other ways to enjoy the city. I spent several days in Dubrovnik after a cruise among the islands of Croatia, giving me an opportunity to see Hvar and Split, along with national parks and ancient cities. I highly recommend experiencing Croatia with a cruise.

Where to Stay: Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik and Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik , both Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties, are excellent options with indoor pools, spas, and sea views. I stayed at Dubrovnik's boutique-style Hotel More and enjoyed the Cave Bar , carved from a natural cave.

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