September: Summer's Encore

September at the beach, the best of both worlds.

September might be one of the best times to stay at Olson Cottages. The days still feel like summer, but Door County begins to settle into a slower, quieter rhythm.
Lake Michigan has spent the entire summer warming up, making September a wonderful time to swim, wade or simply sit at the water’s edge. The beach is less crowded, with more space for long shoreline walks, afternoon reading and evenings spent watching the sky change over the lake.
As the sun goes down, September brings a welcome hint of fall. Build a beach fire, pull up a chair and listen to the waves while the air turns crisp around you. Back at the cottage, light a fire in the fireplace, pour a glass of wine or make a mug of hot cider. It is that rare time of year when you can spend the afternoon in the water and the evening curled up beside a fire.
Beyond the beach, Door County is still fully open, but noticeably easier to enjoy. Tee times are more plentiful, favorite restaurants are less crowded and it is easier to explore without the peak-summer traffic. Orchards and farm markets begin filling with fresh apples, pumpkins and other signs that fall is just around the corner.
September offers the best of both Door County seasons: warm water and beach days, cool nights and cozy fires, summer favorites and the first tastes of autumn.
It is not quite fall, and it certainly does not feel like summer is over. It is simply Door County at a more peaceful pace—and a perfect time to escape to Olson Cottages.