September
Warm Weather: New Mexico
You’ll understand why this state is known as The Land of Enchantment if you visit in September. The summer ‘monsoon’ season has finally ended, leaving a new landscape and crisp, clear blue skies that only highlight this already kaleidoscopic part of the country. Start your trip in the wide-open plains and check out the southwest of Albuquerque for one of the west’s most truly authentic working ranch experiences you can find.
Then turn north towards Santa Fe. In addition to its famous cuisine and rich history as the oldest state capital in the US, this ”best US place” is home to the third-largest art scene in the country. Finally, finish your trip by taking the picturesque high road to Taos, and check out their World Heritage Site, Taos Pueblo.
Cold Weather: Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a national treasure that shouldn’t be missed, especially at the beginning of the fall season. Yosemite Valley is home to some of our country’s most famous terrains and iconic natural interests, from the dramatic waterfalls to the soaring cliff walls of El Capitan and Half Dome.
The captivating photographs from Ansel Adams, the rock climbing community that has visited the area for decades, and the generations of families who have been coming to the park to camp, hike, and soak up the scenery have all contributed to the park’s history. But long before this, the Miwok people occupied the area. But you’ll learn all about this at the Yosemite Museum and the Indian Village of the Ahwahnee in the park. So be sure to include this “best US place” on your bucket list!