Fewer Crowds

By far the greatest advantage of secret-season travel is the opportunity to escape the crowds—particularly on weekdays and in the weeks immediately after Labor Day, when kids have returned to school. With fewer visitors, you’ll enjoy more open space, shorter (or even nonexistent) lines, and the chance to see destinations the way they were meant to be experienced—authentically and unhurriedly.

Better Weather

Depending on your destination, the secret season often brings milder temperatures while still offering many of the same outdoor experiences that draw visitors during peak summer. For example, destinations like Naples and Captiva Island along Florida’s Gulf Coast stay warm well into the fall, making September through November ideal for beach walks, paddleboarding, kayaking, and waterfront dining. Even the Eastern Shore of Maryland shines during the shoulder season, with St. Michaels offering comfortable autumn weather for sailing, biking, and waterfront relaxation.

More Accommodation Availability

One of the biggest advantages of traveling during the secret season is access to hotel rooms that might otherwise be unavailable—or totally outside your budget. Oceanfront accommodations and hotels within walking distance of top attractions can be easier to book and can come at a fraction of peak-season rates.

Better Prices

In addition to greater accommodation availability, you'll often find lower prices during the secret season. With fewer travelers on the road, many hotels offer discounted rates, special packages, and seasonal promotions to attract visitors. Benchmark Resorts and Hotels is offering a seasonal sale across its diverse destinations, starting August 14 through August 28.

Seasonal Activities (Plus Mainstays)

You can still enjoy all the attractions you’d visit during the peak season, with the bonus of unique seasonal events. In Newport, Rhode Island, Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival pairs fresh lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other local specialties with live music along the waterfront—stay the weekend at the stylish Wayfinder Newport. Near Woodinville, Washington, the secret season brings crisp days perfect for scenic drives through the Cascade foothills, hiking mountain trails, and tastings at the region's renowned wineries nearby Willows Lodge. And in Warrens, Wisconsin, you can experience the world’s largest cranberry festival in late September—making for an ideal day trip from Wisconsin Dells and the newly opened Dellshire Resort.

Explore more destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio, a collection of distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program.