Things to Do in Traverse City in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Traverse City
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak fall foliage season - maples reach maximum color intensity between September 15-30, creating stunning backdrops for photography along M-22 and Peninsula Drive
- Harvest season brings fresh cherries, apples, and grapes - local wineries offer tastings of new vintages and you can pick your own at orchards for 40% less than summer tourist prices
- Comfortable hiking weather with 21°C (70°F) average highs - perfect for Sleeping Bear Dunes climbs without summer's scorching heat or winter's snow coverage
- Lower accommodation rates post-Labor Day - hotel prices drop 25-35% compared to July-August peak season, while attractions remain fully operational
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather swings - temperatures can vary 17°C (30°F) between morning and afternoon, requiring layered clothing and flexible outdoor plans
- Some lake activities become uncomfortable - Lake Michigan water temperature drops to 16°C (61°F) by late September, making swimming challenging without wetsuits
- Shorter daylight hours with sunset moving from 7:30pm to 6:45pm throughout the month, limiting evening outdoor activities and golden hour photography
Best Activities in September
Sleeping Bear Dunes Hiking and Climbing
September offers ideal conditions for tackling the 140m (460ft) dune climb with cooler temperatures and crystal-clear views across Lake Michigan. Fall colors frame the shoreline, and the crowds thin significantly after Labor Day. Morning climbs (8-10am) provide the best combination of cool air and dramatic lighting.
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tours
September is harvest season when wineries crush grapes and offer exclusive tastings of new releases. The peninsula's 25+ wineries showcase Rieslings and Pinot Noirs at peak flavor. Cooler weather makes cycling between wineries comfortable, and fall foliage creates Instagram-worthy vineyard shots.
Boardman River Kayaking and Paddleboarding
September's stable weather and reduced motorboat traffic create perfect conditions for paddling the Boardman River through downtown and into Grand Traverse Bay. Water levels remain ideal, and early fall colors reflect beautifully in calmer sections. Afternoon sessions avoid morning fog common in shoulder season.
Mackinac Island Day Trips
September visitors avoid summer's peak crowds while enjoying perfect cycling weather on the car-free island. Ferry rides offer spectacular fall color views across the Straits of Mackinac. Horse-drawn carriage tours are more comfortable without July's heat, and fudge shops maintain full production.
Old Mission Peninsula Cycling
September transforms the 29km (18-mile) peninsula into a cyclist's paradise with peak fall colors, harvest-season farm stands, and comfortable 18-21°C (65-70°F) temperatures. The route passes 7 wineries, lighthouse views, and cherry orchards heavy with late-season fruit.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Tours
September's calm Lake Superior conditions make boat tours to the colorful sandstone cliffs more reliable than summer storm season. Fall colors crown the 61m (200ft) cliffs, and cooler weather makes the 3-hour boat rides comfortable. Wildlife sightings increase as animals prepare for winter.
September Events & Festivals
Traverse City Film Festival Fall Edition
Smaller autumn counterpart to summer's main festival featuring independent films, documentaries, and special screenings across downtown venues. Local filmmakers showcase Michigan-themed productions.
Harvest Stompede Wine Festival
Multi-vineyard celebration of grape harvest season with live music, food pairings, and exclusive wine releases from Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula wineries.