Springfield in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Springfield

29°C (84°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

89mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 30-40% compared to summer peaks, with luxury hotels averaging $80-120/night versus $150+ in July
Ideal weather for outdoor activities - morning temperatures of 21°C (70°F) make early hiking and cycling incredibly comfortable before midday heat
September harvest season brings peak local produce - you'll find the year's best apples, pears, and corn at farmers markets, plus seasonal restaurant menus
Tourist crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day weekend - major attractions like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library have 50% fewer visitors than summer months

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 10 days per month, typically 3-6pm, which can disrupt outdoor dining and walking tours without proper timing
Some seasonal attractions begin reducing hours - outdoor pools close after Labor Day and several summer festivals end by mid-September
Higher humidity at 70% makes the 29°C (84°F) afternoon temperatures feel closer to 32°C (90°F), requiring more frequent hydration breaks

Best Activities in September

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Sites Walking Tours

September's cooler mornings make the 2.4km (1.5 mile) walk between Lincoln's home, tomb, and law office incredibly pleasant. Tourist crowds drop 50% after Labor Day, meaning shorter lines and better photo opportunities. The 21°C (70°F) morning temperatures are perfect for the outdoor portions before afternoon heat builds.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours 3-5 days ahead through the National Park Service. Tours run every 30 minutes 9am-3pm, cost $15-25 per person. Start before 11am to avoid afternoon humidity. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Sangamon River Kayaking Excursions

September water levels are ideal after summer's end - not too low from drought or too high from spring melt. Water temperature around 20°C (68°F) is refreshing without being cold. Wildlife is active preparing for winter, and fall foliage begins showing early colors along the riverbanks.

Booking Tip: Half-day rentals cost $40-60 including shuttle service. Book 1-2 weeks ahead as September is peak season for river activities. Choose morning tours (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms that peak 3-6pm.

Illinois State Fair Legacy Food Tours

September celebrates harvest season with local food festivals showcasing corn, apples, and pork - the flavors that made the State Fair famous. Outdoor eating is comfortable in 24°C (75°F) evening temperatures. Local restaurants feature seasonal menus with fresh harvest ingredients.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours cost $45-65 per person, last 3 hours, and visit 5-6 local establishments. Book through local visitor centers 1 week ahead. Evening tours (5-8pm) avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms.

Prairie Wildflower Photography Walks

Late-season wildflowers like goldenrod and asters peak in September across Lincoln Memorial Garden's 100 acres. Morning light is spectacular at 7am with 70% humidity creating natural soft-focus effects. Fewer tourists mean unobstructed shots of both flowers and Lincoln-era landscapes.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, organized photography workshops cost $35-50. Best times are 7-9am or 6-8pm when light is soft and temperatures comfortable. Workshops book 2-3 weeks ahead through local camera clubs.

Route 66 Historic Driving Tours

September offers ideal road trip weather - no summer heat waves or winter road closures. The Cozy Dog Drive In and other vintage stops are less crowded. Perfect visibility for photographing roadside attractions, and comfortable temperatures for exploring outdoor vintage car displays.

Booking Tip: Self-guided driving maps available free at visitor centers. Guided bus tours cost $30-45 and run weekends only in September. Plan 4-6 hours for full Route 66 Springfield experience including stops at 8-10 historic locations.

Oak Ridge Cemetery Sunset History Tours

September sunsets occur around 7pm - perfect timing for after-work tours. The 365-acre cemetery is beautiful with early fall colors, and cooler evening temperatures make the 45-minute walking tour comfortable. Lincoln's tomb is dramatically lit as daylight fades.

Booking Tip: Evening tours cost $20-30 per person and run Friday-Sunday in September. Book 1 week ahead as these are popular with locals too. Tours include transportation between distant grave sites within the cemetery grounds.

September Events & Festivals

Mid September

International Route 66 Mother Road Festival

Three-day celebration of America's most famous highway featuring vintage car shows, live music, and classic diner food. Springfield's role as Route 66's heart makes this the premier midwest Route 66 event with 200+ classic cars and 50+ vendors.

Late September

Old Capitol Art Fair

Artists from across the midwest display works around the historic Old State Capitol building. Perfect September weather brings large crowds to this juried art show featuring 130+ artists, live demonstrations, and local food vendors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon thunderstorms last 30-45 minutes but can soak you completely without protection

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which traps moisture in 70% humidity and makes you feel 3-4°C warmer

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - September rain makes brick sidewalks around Lincoln sites slippery for 1-2 hours after storms

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 can burn fair skin in 15 minutes during midday outdoor touring

Light layers for temperature swings - 8°C (14°F) difference between 21°C (70°F) morning and 29°C (84°F) afternoon requires adaptable clothing

Insect repellent - September mosquitoes peak around dusk near the Sangamon River and Lincoln Memorial Garden areas

Portable phone charger - air conditioning usage drains batteries faster in humid weather, and you'll use GPS frequently for Lincoln site navigation

Water bottle (at least 750ml/25oz capacity) - 70% humidity requires more frequent hydration than dry climates, especially during afternoon heat

Cash for farmers markets - September harvest festivals and roadside stands often don't accept cards for fresh local produce

Light sweater for evening - temperatures can drop quickly after thunderstorms, making outdoor dining uncomfortable without a layer

Insider Knowledge

Visit Lincoln sites before 10am or after 4pm - the limestone buildings absorb heat and create uncomfortable microclimates during midday September temperatures

September is prime farmers market season - Saturdays at the Old Capitol Farmers Market feature peak apple and corn harvests at 30-40% lower prices than grocery stores

Local restaurants switch to fall menus around September 15th - make reservations at farm-to-table establishments to try seasonal dishes unavailable other months

Free parking becomes available at meters after 6pm weekdays - time your evening activities to save $8-12 daily parking fees near downtown Lincoln attractions

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities 2-6pm when thunderstorms peak - morning tours have 90% success rate versus 60% for afternoon activities

Underdressing for air conditioning - indoor attractions like museums keep temperatures at 18°C (65°F), feeling frigid after 29°C (84°F) outdoor heat

Not checking weekend closures for Lincoln Home tours - National Park Service reduces hours in September and tours can book up 3-4 days ahead on weekends