Arizona is a popular place to visit many months out of the year. This post covers some of the best places to visit in Arizona in September. September still has warmer weather, but it will not be as crowded as other peak season months. You cannot go wrong with wherever you visit in Arizona, especially if you take a road trip or follow this one week Arizona itinerary.
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Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in Arizona in September: Northern Arizona
Monument Valley
By Matt of Matt’s Next Steps
One of the best places to visit in Arizona in September is Monument Valley. Located right on the Arizona-Utah border, this desolate yet mesmerizing destination is known for its iconic red sandstone formations – many of which have been featured in Western movies. With Native American (Navajo) culture, wild horses, and glowing red sunsets over distant horizons – this place is truly unique!
The easiest way to reach Monument is by car (via U.S. Route 163). You can access from the north or the south, making it ideal for incorporating into any road trips of the Southwestern states! Public transport is limited, so having a vehicle is essential for convenience and flexibility.
In September, the weather in Monument Valley is ideal. Temperatures should have cooled post-summer making it milder and more comfortable for exploring!
The must-do activity in Monument Valley is the 17-mile scenic loop. You can self-drive if you’re comfortable navigating rocky terrain or Jeep Tours are available for their insightful commentary on the region’s geology and Navajo culture. Besides the loop, there are endless opportunities to capture and experience the valley’s dramatic landscapes, whether you’re hiking the Wildcat Trail or photographing a sunset from Forrest Gump Point.
Whilst you can get a feel for Monument Valley in one day, I recommend at least two, so you can take your time and fully experience the valley’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage. This also means you’ll get to spend the night here!
There are plenty of campsites in the area and a handful of other accommodation options (top options: View Hotel or Goulding’s Lodge). Wherever you choose, make sure to stay at accommodation which incorporates the region’s natural beauty, whether it’s a window view of the valley’s famous buttes or a campsite so you can watch the stars.
Sedona
By Michelle of Founder of The Trav Nav
September is a fantastic time to visit Sedona, Arizona when the crowds start to taper off, and the temperatures begin to cool down. The weather in Sedona in September is mild, with daytime temperatures averaging in the mid to high 80s. September is also a great time to visit Sedona because wine lovers can take advantage of the Sedona Winefest, which highlights local wineries.
When visiting, plan for three days in Sedona, which will give you enough time to explore Sedona’s highlights. Those who love adventure might enjoy hiking out to Devil’s Bridge, driving or taking the Pink Jeep tour on the Broken Arrow trail, mountain biking, and rock climbing. For those who love the view but aren’t as adventurous, driving the Red Rock Scenic Byway lets you see numerous Sedona highlights without venturing too far from your car.
Sedona is also known for its spiritual vortexes, the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, and incredible dining options. All of these things make Sedona one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
The closest major airport to Sedona is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which is about a two-hour drive away. Given the distance between the main attractions, renting a car is highly recommended. Plus, part of the fun of visiting Sedona is driving the scenic terrain and accessing various trailheads, scenic viewpoints, and nearby attractions at your own pace.
The most popular areas to stay are West Sedona and Uptown Sedona. The luxurious Enchantment Resort is located in West Sedona, which is about a fifteen-minute drive to Uptown Sedona, the tourist shopping and dining district.
Uptown Sedna offers more budget-friendly hotel options, such as Hyatt Vacation Club and the Rancho Sedona RV Park. Additional hotel options in the nearby town of Oak Creek include a Holiday Inn, an Element hotel, and two Hilton properties. Oak Creek is also home to several other independent hotels.
While in Sedona, take the time to enjoy the stunning red rock views!
Grand Canyon
By Kristen of Yonderlust Ramblings
The Grand Canyon is a perennial top destination in Arizona, but what makes it so special to visit in September? Everything from cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and changing colors!
Not everyone knows there’s actually two distinct regions in Grand Canyon National Park: the South and North Rims. September happens to be an ideal month to visit either, or both! While the South Rim sees the majority of the 5 million annual visitors to this park, by September the crowds start to thin out substantially.
This means more of the best hiking trails on the South Rim to yourself! It’s also easier to secure lodging, campsites, and permits. Daily average temperatures drop from the 80’s to 70’s Farenheit, another refreshing reason to visit in September.
The North Rim is also just as appealing in September. While far more secluded year round, it actually closes in mid October, so September is one of the last chances to enjoy this underrated region of the Grand Canyon. If you want to see color changes in the park, the North Rim’s dazzling yellow aspens are on full display against the striking red rock.
Just like the South Rim, you’ll have more availability of amenities, activities, and hiking, including one of the most popular seasonal hikes in the park, the iconic Rim to Rim hike starting on the North Rim’s North Kaibab Trail.
You can easily spend a full day or entire weekend at either rim, but if you want to visit both be sure to leave enough time in your itinerary as it’s a 4.5 hour drive between the North and South Rims. You can easily customize the budget that you need by choosing between National Park lodges and hotels, or camping in park campgrounds. Thus, it is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
You can book guided tours including hikes, Colorado River rafting, and helicopter flights, or take advantage of free hiking on some of the best trails in the Southwest with nothing more than the park entrance fee.
Page
By by Layla of Layla’s Lens
Page, Arizona is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September. This small town straddles the border between Utah and Northern Arizona and is home to a variety of geological wonders. Some must-visit places are the Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. The Glen Canyon Dam is a 710 foot dam that created Lake Powell, and the reason Page was founded in the first place. You can view the dam from the Glen Canyon Overlook or park at the visitor center to walk right over the dam’s bridge.
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning viewpoint of the Colorado River winding around a rock formation in a horseshoe-like shape. It costs $10/vehicle to visit, and is just a 10 minute walk to the overlook. It is one of the best hikes in Arizona.
Antelope Canyon is the famous red-orange slot canyon with smooth walls, created by years of water erosion on Navajo sandstone. It’s located on tribal lands, so you must go on a guided hiking tour to visit it. You can visit either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, with Lower Antelope tours being the most popular, since it’s slightly cheaper, and has better lighting. Regardless of which portion you visit, you’ll leave with amazing photos.
More fun activities to do in Page are hiking, and renting boats or water sports to explore Lake Powell. I recommend spending a day in Page, since everything is no further than a 15 minute drive away. The actual town is very small, mainly consisting of hotels, restaurants, and a few grocery stores. A good budget-friendly hotel to stay in is the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, which has free breakfast and an indoor swimming pool.
White Pocket
By Ossama of At Awesome Traveler
Many people like to visit the state to witness the wave formations in Arizona. However, there is so much to see and discover besides that. One of those places is White Pocket, which is known for its colorful swirls, intricate cross-bedding, and white brain rock. This area is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
The rock formation at white pocket was formed over millions years ago through tectonic activities, weathering, and erosion. This gives its unique look and amazing formation that are mesmerizing to see. It fascinates millions of visitors each year.
Beside this, White Pocket offers endless possibilities of hiking trails and geological features. The rugged beauty of White Rock located in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in northern Arizona, which is a protected area because of its fragile sandstones.
To witness the geological features of the rock formation upclose, you can hike the White Pocket Trail. The trail is 1.4 km and considered to be moderate. It elevates 41 meters above sea level. You need to rent a 4×4 vehicle to get to the trailhead from your hotel with Carl’s Marine & Jeep Rentals. It costs $250 per day.
You should stay in Lake Powell Resort, so you can explore Lake Powell the next day. Located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the lake offers an abundance of watersports activities, such as water-skiing and kayaking. You can also enjoy rock climbing and hiking around the lake.
Havasu Falls
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
If you are looking for an adventure to add to your bucket list this September, consider heading to the Havasu Falls hike, located along the floor of the Grand Canyon. Known for its numerous turquoise waterfalls spilling over red canyon walls, this hike is an absolute must for outdoor lovers.
September is an excellent time to visit Havasu Falls—the weather is still warm enough to enjoy swimming through the chilly waters of Havasu Creek, but not overly sweltering. Despite the cooling temperatures, you should still leave plenty early on hiking days to avoid being on the trail in the midday heat and bring along plenty of water and electrolytes.
In order to visit Havasu Falls, you are required to purchase a camping permit, which are exclusively sold for four days and three nights. Given the trailhead’s remote location in northern Arizona, you should also be sure to budget plenty of time to get to and from the trailhead from the nearest airports, Phoenix and Las Vegas, if you don’t live within driving distance.
Accordingly, you should budget for at least four nights (and, ideally, five) to get to the trailhead, hike to Havasu Falls, and back again. Or, better yet, the hike can be included in a bigger road trip around Arizona!
Once you’ve hiked from the trailhead at the rim of the Grand Canyon to Havasu Falls, you can camp in the campground next to Havasu Falls, which stretches along the turquoise waters of Havasu Creek.
With your four days in this area, you can explore a myriad of waterfalls, including the multi-tiered Beaver Falls; the fern-laden Navajo Falls; or the 200-foot Mooney Falls, which requires making your way down a nail biting descent down a steep and slippery cliffside. Additionally, don’t forget some cash to try fry bread at the food stands and for the shop and cafe in Supai along the trail, widely regarded as the most remote town in the United States.
Getting to Havasu Falls is a bit on the pricey side—a hiking permit alone costs $455, as well as any other costs for transportation or gear that you might need to complete the trail. That being said, this hike is absolutely worth the hype (and the expense!) and should absolutely be at the top of your Arizona bucket list and it is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
Flagstaff
By Tanya of Travels and Treasures
Flagstaff is a wonderful mountain getaway located in the Coconino National Forest. It is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
Start your morning exploring the cool Lava River Cave. It is located 14 miles north of Flagstaff. You can experience the cool depths of Lava River Cave, a mile-long lava tube formed by volcanic activity that is nearly 700,000 years old. Make sure you pack warm clothing and sturdy hiking boots. The temperature in the cave is about 42°F year-round. You will also need to pack flashlights for navigation.
Southwest of Flagstaff is where you will find the Government Prairie. The grasslands greatly contrast the cave with gorgeous views of the San Francisco Peaks and local wildlife. The prairie is one of many spots in the area that make a fun adventure for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
A trip to the Arboretum at Flagstaff is a must-see for enjoying bird and wildflower walks, as well as a botanical garden. Visit the Blacksmiths Art exhibit to discover beautiful metalwork creations showcased throughout the sculpture garden and the main galleries.
In September, the weather is mild, and jewel-toned fall colors start to appear. This makes it an ideal time for hiking, biking, and camping. Visit the Humphreys Peak Trail, the highest peak in Arizona, or the Fatman’s Loop Trail, which offers stunning views.
The advantage to going in September is that with school back in session, there will be fewer visitors than during the peak summer season. This means shorter lines, there will be less crowded viewpoints, and it will be easier to find accommodations.
Two or three days is enough time to visit Flagstaff and take advantage of the activities. You will need a car to travel to the city and surrounding places of interest, or you can enhance your experience with a Grand Canyon rail tour.
Looking for budget-friendly hotels? These hotel options that are less than $150 per night:
- Sonesta ES Suites, Flagstaff
- La Quinta by Wyndham, Flagstaff
- Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites, Flagstaff
A trip to Flagstaff, is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September and is a great mountain getaway when you want to explore beyond the Grand Canyon.
Best Places to Visit in Arizona in September: Southern Arizona
Scottsdale
By Carmen of Basic Economy B
Scottsdale is a great weekend getaway for couples, families, or gal pals, especially in September. By September, temperatures in Scottsdale will start to cool down from the unbearable highs in the summertime, and you’re able to do some outdoor activities that will feel like you’re stretching summer out even further.
In the morning when the weather remains cooler and more pleasant, you can hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, golf at one of the pristine courses in the area, or explore the Desert Botanical Gardens. All of these sites make Scottsdale one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
In the afternoon when the temperatures get higher, the Scottsdale Arts District is a perfect way to explore while enjoying some AC. The Arts District is full of galleries and exhibitions, not to mention the many delicious restaurants and cafés in the area. Strolling around historic Downtown Scottsdale and swinging into shops is a super fun way to spend a couple of hours, though maybe not the best for your wallet (there are some really cute shops!).
When spending the weekend in Scottsdale, you can rely on ride share apps instead of renting a car and, as a result, didn’t have to worry about parking at all. We also chose to stay in accommodations near Downtown Scottsdale so that we were able to walk to many of our destinations without the cost of an Uber. If you’re traveling with kids, you definitely want to make sure you’re staying somewhere with a pool, as that is the perfect way to cool down in the warm afternoon temps for kiddos and adults alike.
Phoenix
By Rachael of Oahu Travel Secrets
September is a shoulder season in Phoenix – not quite off season but not quite peak either. But the weather is unbeatable if you love the summer! Phoenix is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in September.
You’ll be able to find nice hotels and resorts for about $200/night. In terms of activities, it’s a great time to be outside for hiking and golfing. I’d recommend getting a hotel with a pool – you’ll want it! Golfing, of course, is less budget friendly, but there are some courses where you’ll still find good deals this early in the season.
And unsurprisingly, Arizona has great Tex Mex, so don’t miss out on some yummy dinners. I’d recommend spending 3-4 days in Phoenix to try everything out!
Flying into the Phoenix Airport or driving will be your options to get here – you’ll definitely need a car one way or another. Phoenix has almost no public transportation options.
If you want to stay directly in Phoenix, Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak is an amazing hotel. Staying in Scottsdale is also a fun option if you want to add in some fun nightlife – the towns are close to each other and easily accessible by car. There are also many cheap things to do in Phoenix.
While the weather will start to cool off in September, it doesn’t mean every day will be safe. Consider your abilities before planning a full day outside. The heat can be dangerous in Arizona so it’s important to listen to your body.
Final Thoughts on Best Places to Visit in Arizona in September
There are many amazing and best places to visit in Arizona in September. Other awesome places to check out include Petrified Forest National Park, Prescott, Tucson, the Verde Valley, and Wilcox.
You may also enjoy these articles:
- Best Place to Visit in Arizona in Fall
- Best Place to Visit in Arizona in Winter
- Best Place to Visit in Arizona in Spring
