Why September Might Be the Best Month to Travel

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The crowds thin out. The weather mellows—especially in once-sweltering destinations.
And you can catch the first blush of autumn colors, join centuries-old festivals, or squeeze in a few last sun-soaked beach days.

Here are 11 incredible places to visit this September—complete with insider tips, unique events, and a few stunning stays you’ll want to bookmark.

1. Branson, Missouri – Fall Colors Without the New England Crowds

Skip the jam-packed East Coast leaf-peeping routes and head to the Ozark Mountains. Starting mid-September, maples, oaks, and ashes turn vibrant hues, and the 22-mile Highway 165 Scenic Loop offers postcard-worthy views—especially over Table Rock Lake.

Stay: The Ozarker Lodge – A stylish, camp-themed boutique hotel that opened last year.
Insider Tip: Time your visit for the Silver Dollar City Harvest Festival (Sept. 12+). By day, see 30,000 pumpkins; by night, enjoy dance parties and glowing pumpkin displays.

2. Hurghada, Egypt – Dive into the Red Sea’s Prime Season

September means crystal-clear water, warm days, and world-class diving among 300+ coral species and 1,700 types of fish.

Stay: The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh – 48 acres of all-suite luxury.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the seafood tagine at seaside Corallo Restaurant—rich, fragrant, and unforgettable.

3. Custer State Park, South Dakota – Buffalo Roundup & Western Culture

On Sept. 26, watch cowboys and cowgirls herd more than 1,300 bison through rugged terrain in the 60th Buffalo Roundup.

Stay: The Bavarian Inn – Chalet-style charm with history.
Insider Tip: Try the fireside buffalo skillet at Blue Bell Lodge.

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4. Breckenridge, Colorado – Golden Aspens, Cowboy Hats & Cool Air

By late September, Breckenridge’s high-altitude aspens glow gold.

Stay: Hotel Alpenrock – New at the base of Peak 9.
Insider Tip: Visit Lace & Lariat to design your own cowboy hat.

5. Madeira – Wine, Music & Grape Stomping

The Madeira Wine Festival (Aug. 24–Sept. 14) blends tastings, music, and the chance to stomp grapes in hillside vineyards.

Stay: The Reserve at Savoy Palace – Private infinity pool, rooftop bar, and bay views.
Insider Tip: Take a late-afternoon tour at Blandy’s Wine Lodge for a glass of Bual in a vintage tasting room.

6. Belize City – Carnival Meets Caribbean Culture

From Sept. 6, join two weeks of parades, dancing, and history leading up to Independence Day.

Stay: Fort George Hotel & Spa – Waterfront elegance since the 1950s.
Insider Tip: Browse Image Factory for art and sculpture from Belizean creatives.

7. Great Bear Rainforest, Canada – Grizzly Spotting Season

The September salmon run draws grizzlies to the riverbanks in British Columbia’s pristine wilderness.

Stay: Tweedsmuir Park Lodge – Raised bear-viewing platforms included.
Insider Tip: Book a Nuxalk cultural totem tour for Indigenous history and artistry.

8. Frankfurt, Germany – Seven Centuries of Dippemess Fun

From Sept. 12–28, Frankfurt’s fall Dippemess Festival brings rides, markets, and bratwurst to the city fairgrounds.

Stay: Gekko House – Industrial-chic style in the up-and-coming Gallus district.
Insider Tip: Bring home a traditional bembel cider pitcher.

9. Prince Edward County, Canada – Endless Summer Energy

Think Hamptons vibes—vineyards, art studios, and sandy beaches—but with Canadian charm.

Stay: The Drake Devonshire – The hotel that redefined the local scene.
Insider Tip: Reserve a spot at Sandbanks Provincial Park to see the world’s largest baymouth dune.

10. Redding, California – Roots Music & Rugged Nature

Visit during the Redding Roots Revival Festival (Sept. 26–28) for soul, funk, and folk music, plus nearby waterfalls and hiking trails.

Stay: Sheraton at Sundial Bridge – Steps from Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
Insider Tip: Recharge at Capturing the Essence Salt Cave with Himalayan salt therapy.

11. Budapest, Hungary – Wine & Thermal Spas with a Twist

The Budapest Wine Festival (Sept. 12–15) at Buda Castle is perfect for tasting Hungary’s lesser-known but exceptional vintages.

Stay: W Budapest – Glamorous neo-Renaissance style in the heart of the city.
Insider Tip: Bring your chess skills to the thermal baths—locals play while soaking.

 

Ready to Plan Your September Escape?
Whether you’re chasing fall colors, tasting world-class wines, or diving into crystal-clear waters, September offers unforgettable travel without the summer rush.
Let’s create your perfect itinerary—flights, hotels, and exclusive experiences included! Message or call us today.