How to Keep Summer Going Into September

Indulging in spa services can make any day feel like vacation. Some of the best destination spas are located in the U.S., and readers this year chose Westglow Resort & Spa in North Carolina as the best domestic spa. (It's hard to argue with those relaxing Blue Ridge Mountain views.)

Nothing says summer like America's favorite pastime. And whether it's a major league game or a local one, it's a great excuse to sit outside drinking a beer and rooting for the home team.

National Parks are some of this country's greatest treasures, offering travelers the chance to reconnect to nature in a protected ecosystem. With many of the summer crowds gone and the temperature dropping, taking a hike is more enjoyable than ever.

Trying something out of your comfort zone can help shake off the end of summer blues. Why not try surfing, the most summer-y hobby around?

Taking in the sights of your local city (or just your neighborhood) can be the perfect way to recharge before autumn kicks off. To really feel like a tourist in your own home, spend the night at a hotel you've been admiring or a quirky B&B (though it helps if you don't do dishes).

Most of us have that one book on our shelves that we've been meaning to read all summer and definitely thought we'd get to by now. If you need some reading inspiration, check out an awesome summer beach read or a book inspired by your state.

Airlines such as Southwest and Delta have been offering end of summer flight deals with one-way tickets lower than $40. Even Qantas has gotten into the late summer spirit by selling round-trip tickets to Australia for less than $840.

Some of the best beach towns are located right here in the U.S., and with temperatures in much of the country remaining warm throughout September, it's not too late to get sand on everything you own.

Nothing beats the disappointment of one vacation ending like planning the next one. Thanksgiving is only a few months away, and October is the best time to book travel for turkey day, so September is the perfect moment to hash out your family plans.

Shoulder season is the sweet spot between peak tourist seasons, meaning travelers can take advantage of lower-cost flights and hotels. Autumn is shoulder season for most of Europe, including Paris and Rome.

Savor the warm (but no longer humid and sweaty) days at one of the best rooftop bars in the country.

A crop of new amusement parks and rides have opened this summer, with everything from old fashioned roller coasters to "Wonder Woman" attractions.

In September, the hordes of leaf-peepers have not yet arrived to Vermont, but the breweries are still pouring out great craft beer and the trails are open for hiking. Now's the perfect opportunity to take a traffic-free drive through New England.