Preparing for the season’s change from hot summer nights to crisp autumn evenings, we’ve selected some great places to visit in September.
South Lake Tahoe, CA
There are few better places to have a final summer send-off than along the shore of South Lake Tahoe. By day, ride Heavenly Mountain Resort’s Gondola to the mountain’s peak for unbeatable lake views. By night, enjoy the lively restaurant and bar scene at places such as The Coachman and South of North Brewing Co., along with the casinos across the border in adjacent Stateline, Nevada.
Why visit in September
Summer temperatures fade away to autumnal weather shortly after Labor Day Weekend. Plus, Jack Johnson performs alongside Ziggy Marley on September 4 & 5 at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harvey’s to close out the summer season.
Where to stay
Situated along the prestigious Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, Edgewood Tahoe Resort is a luxury mountain stay with front-row seats to Lake Tahoe’s everlasting splendor. Entering the Great Room, expect soaring ceilings, grand windows, and every room with a view. Plan to book one of the hotel’s new Villa Suites — modern Craftsman-styled lodges built with ample space for exclusive gatherings — upon their opening this September.
Bozeman, MT
Surrounded by the vast Rocky Mountains, Bozeman sits in the picturesque Gallatin Valley of Montana’s famed Big Sky Country. Stroll Main Street of Downtown Bozeman for chic boutiques such as Meridian and EVRGREEN Clothing, refined restaurants like Blackbird and rugged bars such as Plonk and Crystal Bar. With unlimited outdoor opportunities: fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding… the list goes on-and-on; there is something for everyone here.
Why visit in September
Catch the final moments of peak summer weather before the first snowfall covers this quaint mountain town, giving way to cooling temperatures and changing leaf colors.
Where to stay
Built in 1941 to house the Bozeman National Guard and designed by prolific Bozeman architect, Fred Fielding Willson, the landmark Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is a renowned hotel in the heart of the American West — and Bozeman’s first and only 4-star hotel. Those who love a good cocktail can opt to sip libations at the hotel’s glass-enclosed bar with panoramic mountain views, Sky Shed; or if in the mood for a swankier environment, basement lounge Tune Up does the job.
Munich, Germany
Munich is a vibrant city full of centuries-old buildings set in the Bavarian Alps and well known for its annual Oktoberfest — the world’s largest beer drinking festival. From the charming city’s main square, Marienplatz, featuring the New City Town Hall, to the artisanal open-air market, Viktualienmarkt, there is so much to explore.
Why visit in September
Oktoberfest celebrations start on September 17 and go until October 3. Need we say more?
Where to stay
BEYOND by Geisel is an intimate 19-room boutique hotel situated right on the Marienplatz across from the New City Town Hall. Suites sport an open layout with modern, warm toned furnishings, kitchens (where guests can cook themselves or request a private chef to cook for them), living rooms, and wine lounges.
Santiago, Chile
Colonial Spanish architecture cozies up to glass skyscrapers in Santiago, Chile. Wander the streets of the historic Plaza de Armas and see the cultural La Moneda Presidential Palace. For breathtaking views of the capital city, climb up San Cristóbal Hill.
Why visit in September
Chile’s Independence Day, or better known as Fiestas Patrias, commemorates the country’s traditional two-day celebration starting on September 18. (Be ready for the official national dance called the “cueca!”).
Where to stay
A prime destination in the center of the city, The Singular Santiago Lastarria Hotel flaunts spacious rooms and a buzzy rooftop bar, The Singular Rooftop Bar. Neutral gray and cream colors complement classic Chilean art pieces throughout this hotel.
Honolulu, HI
Located on the island of Oahu’s south shore, Honolulu is the capital city of Hawaii. Famous for its crystal blue waters and crescent shaped beach lined with palm trees, Waikiki is the city’s most popular area for tourists. Those who love up-and-coming trendy neighborhoods — you know we do at HAP — should head to Chinatown and pop into shops such as Tin Can Mailman and Bās Bookshop, plus grab a drink at The Pig and The Lady. Hike Diamond Head for spectacular views of the island, visit Pearl Harbor to see the USS Arizona Memorial, and tour the former home of Hawaii’s final monarchs at Iolani Palace.
Why visit in September
September is the best month for warmest water temperatures and drier weather — which means visitors have a solid chance of avoiding tropical rainfall.
Where to stay
Storied beaches lay a short walk or bike ride from the 112-vintage inspired rooms at the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club. When you’re not exploring Oahu, relax alongside the hotel’s inviting Swim Club, or shop their in-house men’s and women’s stylish boutique, Banks Journal, for the ideal Hawaiian souvenir. Walking around the lobby, guests might run into Jack — the newest team member at the Surfjack — who greets all people and four-legged friends that stay on the premises with aloha.
California’s Central Coast
Take the road trip of a lifetime along Highway 1 for jaw-dropping cliffside beaches and moderate temperatures that make California’s Central Coast a favorable place to visit. Santa Barbara, Cambria, San Simeon, San Luis Obispo and Monterey Bay are just a few of the scenic beach towns that give this stretch of coastline its nickname: “the American Riviera.”
Why visit in September
It’s a quieter time of year for the Central Coast of California with clear skies and mild temperatures. Plus, it’s prime time to witness wildlife such as Monarch butterflies and the elephant seals of San Simeon — accessible rookeries — when the newest generation of seals arrive.
Where to stay
Expect a laid-back, luxurious stay at White Water Cambria. Bohemian beach trappings such as lightly-colored wooden walls and surf-themed coffee table books pay homage to local Central Coast artisans adorn these modern guest rooms. Book the Ocean View King for a plush king size bed, panoramic 180-degree ocean views, and a private outdoor patio with a moss green soaking tub.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
From spectacular stargazing to peculiar geologic rock formations (called hoodoos), Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the American Southwest’s most unique spots to visit. Road trip through this sprawling reserve in southern Utah that presents crimson-colored landscapes with unbeatable views at sunrise and sunset.
Why visit in September
Time runs out at the end of the month as the Under Canvas Bryce Canyon (more below) closes on September 26 for the winter season.
Where to stay
Under Canvas Bryce Canyon is the 10th location helmed by Under Canvas — one of the most high-end glamping experiences within the USA. After a long day of outdoor excursions, return to one of their upscale tents: Suites offer lounge areas, one king bed and queen sofa beds; Deluxe Tents provide extra privacy with only one plush king bed, personal bathrooms and wood-burning fireplaces; Stargazer tents boast a viewing window above the king bed for the ultimate luxury camping experience.
Other articles you may like:
