South Carolina Pastry Shop In Running For Cleanest Restroom In America

When it comes to fine dining or just delicious food, you would be hard-pressed to convince me that there's any place in the south better than Charleston, South Carolina.  You literally cannot walk down the streets of downtown and NOT be tempted by some of the most unreal food smells you'll ever encounter.  For example, La Patisserie at the Hotel Bennett in Chuck Town is a must-visit.

So, I guess anyone can have great food...but how's your bathroom?  That's what sets La Patisserie apart and takes the whole experience to the next level.  In fact, it's a finalist in The Cintas America’s Best Restroom Contest.  The winner receives $2,500 in Cintas products and services.  La Patisserie is one of the ten finalists being judged on the criteria of cleanliness, visual appeal, innovation, functionality, and unique design elements.  You've got ten days to cast your ballot (through August 31).

Fall is just around the corner, and is generally a perfect time to plan a getaway. By now, most travelers would have gone to their favorite destinations, and airfare and hotel rates are a bit cheaper now.

U.S. News looked at these factors and a few more to come up with a list of the best places to visit in September. You could be adventurous and looking for the next great place to hike or if you're all about the city, you might want to check out a new urban area. Or perhaps you just want that small-town feel, there is a destination for you.

Check out these spots. Some may even surprise you.  (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Check with the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

It may be a small town, but it's rolling in culture and Southern hospitality. From the cozy, quaint restaurants and shops in the downtown area to 22-mile-long trails at the state park, Greenville is a hot spot in the south to check out in the fall.

Nothing like an escape to Arizona to check out this popular family destination. If you've never been to the Grand Canyon, beware of the peak season when daytime temperatures can reach the triple digits. But the fall brings a perfect blend of cool. And in September, you won't have to deal with the crowds as much either as kids will be back in school.

Oahu is Hawaii's most-visited island, so if you want to take advantage of all that it has to offer, visiting during the fall season is your best bet. In September,  fewer tourists are on the island. And there are discounted rates. You'll be able to experience one of the island's biggest events, the Aloha Festivals.

If you're into outdoor attractions, Vancouver is for you. September makes the best time to admire this Pacific Northwestern area. You can walk through leafy Stanley Park. It has 1,000 acres and more than 16 miles of forest trails. U.S. News says it has the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world.

If your travel is more on the exotic side, then South Africa's Kruger National Park may suit you well. Here you will find nearly 150 kinds of mammals, ranging from lions to hippos to giraffes. It makes the perfect place to go on a safari. And visiting in September increases your chance to actually see the animals. They become more visible after the dry season ends.

If a view of the mountains helps you relax, then look no further than The Berkshires. It's a mountainous area in western Massachusetts. September brings a mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. The weather is crisp, clear, and pleasant. While you're there, you'll need to check out a tour of the region's museums and historical sites.