summer vacation ideas trip

33 Stunning Places to Visit in Summer in the USA (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)

When it comes to exploring our backyard, there’s no kind of trip that Americans hold nearer and dearer to our hearts than the delights of summer vacations in the USA.

There’s an exhilarating freedom that comes with hitting the open road in the US in June, July, and August, no matter how many years it has been since you were in school and actually had an assigned summer break.

And, if you’re like a lot of us, summer vacation in the US often means heading to your family’s classic spot at least once (for us, that’s Atlantic Beach, NC and the surrounding area).

The call of new destinations, though, can be just as strong–no surprise, considering how many fantastic places there are to go in the United States over the summer!

If you’re hoping to mix it up this summer, whether it’s with a long weekend in a new-to-you city or a road trip to one of America’s best national parks , we have some ideas here for you!

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to round up some of the best places to visit in summer in the USA.

Here are some unforgettable travel destinations to add to your 2023 summer wish list!

Table of Contents

Cool Cities to Visit During Summer in the USA

Beaches + islands for classic summer vacations in the us, national parks to visit for usa summer vacations, epic usa summer road trip routes, more of the best places to visit in summer in the usa.

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As the largest city in New England and the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston is undoubtedly one of the absolute best places to visit over the summer in the USA.

With its coastal location, gorgeous architecture, a dizzying array of distinct neighborhoods, and world-class museums (not to mention universities), you’ll never run out of incredible  things to do in Boston .

That being said, thanks to the city’s dense historic center and easy-to-access attractions along the Freedom Trail, spending even one day in Boston can be incredibly rewarding.

We’ve been obsessed with Boston since we spent a summer living there, and will forever count it among our favorite cities.

During your trip, be sure to walk the Freedom Trail, relax at the Boston Public Garden and the Common, and enjoy the views from the water on  a whale-watching cruise .

When it comes to neighborhoods, make sure to visit the picturesque North End, fashionable Back Bay, and grand Beacon Hill–three Boston neighborhoods you absolutely can’t miss.

Summer is also the perfect time of year to enjoy a Red Sox game at historic Fenway Park, one of the best baseball stadiums in America.

And, thanks to Boston’s many connections to the American Revolution, you’d be hard-pressed to find a city that celebrates the 4th of July with more flair!

If you’re planning an early July vacation in the USA, be sure not to miss the reading of the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Old State House or the phenomenal fireworks display when visiting Boston.

Where to Stay in Boston

• Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
• Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

Chicago, Illinois

From Alyssa of An Apple a Plane

From an infamous skyline to countless outdoor activities, Chicago, Illinois, is without a doubt an incredible summer vacation.

Visitors love traveling to Chicago over the summer for its many festivals, from the Chicago Blues Festival in June to Windy City Smokeout in August and beyond.

No trip to Chicago is complete without exploring iconic architecture like “The Bean” at Millenium Park and walking along Lake Michigan at Navy Pier.

Consider riding the famous Ferris wheel, or dining at a rooftop restaurant or viewpoint of your choice to catch Chicago’s city views from up above.

Be sure to also stroll along Michigan Avenue for world-famous shopping, and snap a photo at the iconic Chicago Theater sign.

Escape the heat in the evening by enjoying a famous show like Blue Man Group or a musical.

After a few days in Chicago , summer travelers can escape the bustle by chasing waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park located 2 hours by car in Oglesby, Illinois.

Travelers looking to cross a national park off their list can get their outdoor escape in just over an hour by car at Indiana Dunes National Park.

Where to Stay in Chicago

• Warwick Allerton: Situated on the Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago, the hotel is perfect for shopping and discovering iconic architecture.
• Staypineapple: This oddly named hotel was designed by a world renowned architect and features stylish details such as mosaic floors and marble ceilings. No detail is spared and rooms are a testament to the thought that has gone into each part of the hotel.

Portland, Maine

From Brittany of Travel By Brit

Portland, Maine, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the United States in the summer.

If you love rocky coastlines, fresh seafood, gorgeous lighthouses, and craft beer, you’ll be especially drawn to this gem in New England!

June, July, and August are ideals time to visit — the balmy temperatures that hover around 75°F and cool breezes are perfect for enjoying all the best things to do in Portland, Maine .

While you’re in Portland, you can’t miss the chance to see the Portland Head Light, the most photographed lighthouse in the United States, and go on a whale-watching cruise or sunset cruise in Casco Bay.

Portland is home to a slew of craft breweries, so visiting local favorites like Allagash Brewing Company, Foundation Brewing Company, and Oxbow Blending & Bottling is a must.

The Holy Donut, Duckfat, and Eventide Oyster Co. are some of the best places to eat in Portland, offering inventive donuts, gourmet dipping sauces, fries, and delicious lobster rolls, respectively.

Portland is a walkable city, so if you want to stay close to the restaurants, shops, and attractions in Old Port, book a room at the Portland Regency Hotel & Spa .

Where to Stay in Portland

• Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : This historic hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, full-service spa, and other luxurious amenities that will truly make your summer vacation to Portland one to remember!
• Portland Harbor Hotel: Located on Portland Waterfront is this luxury and stylish hotel. With beautifully designed rooms and a great restaurant, you are also well located to explore more of Portland.

San Diego, California

From Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

Arguably one of the best places to visit during the summer for a classic American beach vacation is sunny San Diego.

With its gorgeous beaches and plenty of outdoor activities available, San Diego has everything you need to have a great getaway.

San Diego is most known for its many picturesque and inviting beaches.

From Del Mar to Mission Beach, there are plenty of options for those looking to sunbathe, swim in the ocean, or surf along some clean waves .

But for those looking to do something outside of the beaches, consider hitting one of San Diego’s many hiking trails.

For instance, Torrey Pines State Park offers lots of easy-moderate trails for hikers who prefer to appreciate the beaches from above.

Alternatively, those interested in doing longer trails can hike to the famous “Potato Chip Rock”!

And if you just want to relax and take in the sights, there’s no better spot than downtown San Diego.

There, you’ll find the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Seaport Village, and several other fun neighborhoods!

So if you’re looking for a travel destination with endless activities, great weather, and stunning views, then San Diego is the ideal place for your US summer vacation.

Where to Stay in San Diego

• Handlery Hotel: This stunning resort style hotel in Downtown San Diego is a perfect summer escape spot. Rooms are spacious and bright and there is a huge pool with a beautiful terrace, perfect for snoozing in the sun.
• Porto Vista Hotel : In the heart of Little Italy you will find this stylish hotel with views of the harbor and a short walk from the cruise terminal. The rooftop bar also has a pool to cool off over after a busy day exploring.

New York City

From Sam of Find Love and Travel

One of the best places to enjoy a summer trip in the USA over the summer is easily New York City.

In fact, summer is the city’s most popular time to visit due to the warm weather since it is a great walking destination.

June, July, and August provide the perfect opportunity to really browse the busy streets and embody that city lifestyle.

With a week in New York, you have a plethora of options for things to do beyond the usual first-timer sights, including enjoying a beach day in Coney Island or hanging out in Williamsburg.

If it is your first time in New York, you can’t pass up strolling around Times Square and being engulfed by the chaos of giant billboards and classic yellow cabs on your way to a Broadway show.

Additionally, don’t forget to enjoy the summer days walking around the famous Central Park, visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and experiencing Soho’s cobblestone streets and art murals.

Summer nights in NYC are just as amazing. From attending a show to drinking at rooftop bars, or hitting up the club scene, there will be something for everyone! 

An NYC travel tip to keep in mind is to wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking a lot!

Where to Stay in New York

• The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
• The Renwick: Offering stylish residential style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

Los Angeles, California

From Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

Los Angeles is a brilliant place to spend a summer vacation in the United States.

It is an incredible city full of varied things to do and there are so many  Instagrammable places in LA !

You can spend a week exploring as it is a huge metropolis with many attractions spread out across the city.

Summer is the best time to visit Los Angeles as it is warm and dry.

The mornings and evenings feel very comfortable, but the afternoons are warm, which is the perfect time to head to one of the many beaches and cool down in the water!

Whether it’s Malibu Beach, Laguna Beach, or Huntington Beach – there’s a beach to suit every taste in Los Angeles.

Make sure to visit the Venice Beach boardwalk and the ‘Venice’ sign, as well as the ‘End of the Route 66’ sign and the amusement park at Santa Monica Beach.

And when you’re feeling cultural, head to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art to see the impressive Urban Lights installation!

Don’t miss heading up to the Griffith Observatory and hiking to the ‘Hollywood’ sign where you’ll get a fabulous panoramic view of the LA skyline.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

• Hotel Erwin: With views over the Pacific Ocean and Venice Beach Boardwalk, you will be hard pushed to find a hotel with more iconic views. Rooms are stylish and comfortable and most have balconies to take in the views. You can also lounge in the rooftop bar for a dreamy LA afternoon.
• Palihotel Melrose: For something a little more city based this beautiful hotel in Hollywood spares no expense in charming details, homey comforts and stunning decor. The location is also excellent in the heart of the Melrose Shopping District.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

From Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

For an exciting Midwestern getaway, Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a terrific choice for summer break in the United States.

There are many  amazing things to do in Milwaukee , whether you like museums, sporting events, or live music!

Summer is the best time to visit Milwaukee, as you can pack a lot of activities into the long summer days.

Take the family out to enjoy America’s favorite pastime and watch the Milwaukee Brewers play baseball at the American Family Field.

If you love live music, you’ll definitely want to attend Summerfest !

Summerfest is the largest music festival in the world, featuring hundreds of bands performing across eleven stages. Summerfest is held in Milwaukee over three weekends in June and July.

Don’t forget about all of the great museums in Milwaukee, either!

Admire the unique architecture of the Milwaukee Art Museum as well as its massive collection of over 30,000 works of art.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, visit the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum or the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame.

Where to Stay in Milwaukee

• The Plaza Hotel : If you’re looking for a memorable place to stay, this is a great choice for your stay in Milwaukee. The Plaza is conveniently located midway between Lake Michigan and the Downtown Riverwalk, so it’s within walking distance of many of Milwaukee’s top attractions. The rooms also have full-sized kitchens to give you more dining options during your vacation.
• The Pfister Hotel: For stunning old world charm and a Victorian art collection on site this is the hotel to book. The entrance way is spectacular and the charming martini bar on the 23rd floor is historic. Many rooms also have views of Lake Michigan.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

From Samantha of New England Wanderlust

One of the best summer beach vacation destinations on the East Coast is Cape Cod in Massachusetts.

Not only does it have some of the most beautiful coastline in the United States, but it’s also home to 15 unique and charming  towns   to explore, incredible seafood, and stunning scenery.

The best thing to do in this area in the summer is to explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, which is made up of 40 miles of the most scenic beaches, lots of nature trails, and dramatic sand dunes.

One beach you won’t want to skip at this park is Coast Guard Beach, which is regarded as one of the top beaches in the entire country.

You can often spot seals swimming along the coastline here, too!

Spending a day in Chatham should be on everyone’s itinerary, which is the most charming and picturesque town on Cape Cod.

A few things you can’t miss here are the iconic Main Street for shopping, Chatham Lighthouse, and the beautiful hydrangea displays in July. 

For a completely unique experience, you’ll want to head to Provincetown, which is located at the very tip of Cape Cod.

Provincetown is like no other place in the world because it not only has a relaxed, beach town vibe, but also a very lively nightclub and cabaret scene.

It’s something you truly have to experience for yourself!

While strolling through Provincetown, you’ll want to visit the shops along Commercial Street, pop into the art galleries, and grab lunch or dinner at the iconic Lobster Pot restaurant.

Monterey, California

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Monterey , on the Central California coast, is an excellent beach town to visit during summer break in the USA, especially in conjunction with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea and the spectacularly beautiful Big Sur coast.

Monterey Bay is known for its temperate weather.

Expect daytime highs in the high 60s and low 70s, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, and no rain.

You may run into a little fog in the mornings, but that’s part of the charm of the laid back coast, and it usually burns off by noon.

The long daylight hours and plethora of outdoor adventures in the region make for a great summer break.

Go whale watching, or enjoy paddling the calm Monterey Bay.

Stroll the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its boutiques and art galleries, and go wine tasting and enjoy dining at the many fine restaurants in the region.

Do the popular 17-Mile drive, with its ocean views and the chance to soak in the sun at beautiful Spanish Bay Beach.

Explore Big Sur, where you will find no less than six state parks with beautiful hiking trails.

The drive itself, with the many scenic overlooks, is worthy of a full day or more. The trails at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve are particularly scenic.

Where to Stay in Monterey

• Intercontinental the Clement Monterey : Located on historic Cannery Row and perfectly placed to enjoy the best of what Monterey has to offer.
• Hotel Abrego: On the Monterey Peninsula this hotel provides access to the beaches and aquarium, just a short distance away.

From Marcie of Hawaii Travel Spot

One of the best summer vacation destinations in America is the beautiful island of Oahu.

This is the most popular Hawaiian island and where you’ll find Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach.

One of my biggest  Oahu travel tips  is to plan to visit for at least 7 days.

There are so many amazing things to do on Oahu for all interests that you’ll need at least a week to do a few activities, explore Oahu, and have time to relax.

People who love adventure will definitely want to schedule an ATV tour at Kualoa Ranch.

Joining a Hawaii Bucket List Tour is also a great option for Oahu first-timers as a local will take you to any place on your personal bucket list.

Foodies will definitely want to stop by Kahuku Farms in North Shore Oahu for the freshest farm-to-table dining.

Summer is a great time to visit Oahu because the weather is typically perfect.

That means there’s a low chance your scheduled activities will be canceled or postponed due to weather, which happens frequently in winter months.

Where to Stay in Oahu

• A few top places to stay on Oahu include Disney Aulani Resort (especially for families), Turtle Bay Resort in North Shore Oahu, and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki.

Naples and Marco Island, Florida

From Lori of Travlinmad

If you’re looking for a perfect beach destination in the USA for a summer getaway, the Paradise Coast in southwest Florida boasts two great locations just minutes apart: beautiful Naples and Marco Island.

A vacation here is great to just kick back and enjoy the sun and sand as both places have some of the best beaches in Florida.

You can enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf by renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, and there are plenty of boat tours for watching a fiery sunset, dolphin or manatee watching, or a day of saltwater fishing on the water.

For nature and outdoor lovers, Naples and Marco Island are the gateways to the   Ten Thousand Islands  and Florida Everglades for abundant hiking, birding, and taking an exciting airboat ride through the Glades.

For shoppers, high-end boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops can be found throughout both cities.

And when it comes to dining, both Naples and Marco are renowned for great restaurant choices.

From pizza shops and food truck parks to specialty fine dining, there’s something for every appetite.

Summer in southwest Florida is sunny and hot, and the Gulf of Mexico is warm and calm. Crowds are also at their lowest so dinner and tour reservations are easy to score.

Where to Stay in Naples and Marco Island

• The Bellasera Resort : For a charming place to stay in the heart of downtown Naples, this is the perfect choice for couples or families.
• Marco Island Lakeside Inn: For pretty self contained suites this resort is perfect if you are looking for something you can self cater yourself.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

From Linda of Midwest Explored

If you’re looking for great summer vacation ideas in the USA, then consider beautiful Mackinac Island.

This picturesque island in Lake Huron sits right in between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan and is a Midwestern favorite for summer getaways.

It’s an ideal vacation spot for anyone who enjoys a bit of old-world charm since the island is totally car-free and filled with historic Victorian houses that overlook the lake.

Horse-drawn carriages also fill the streets since people use them to enjoy all of the best things to do on Mackinac Island .

Take time to explore Fort Mackinac, visit two different butterfly conservatories, and experience a bit of culture at the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.

However, no trip to this amazing island would be complete without a stop at Arch Rock.

Located in Mackinac Island State Park, this incredible natural rock formation is amazing to behold since it sits 146 feet above the lake.

Feel free to use either Arch Rock Bicycle Trail or Arch Rock Road to access this amazing landmark.

Both options are fairly easy to navigate and are only about one mile long each way.

Then, make the most of the idyllic summer weather and book a kayak tour around the island to enjoy views of Mackinac Island from a completely different perspective.

Where to Stay in Mackinac Island

• Pine Cottage Bed and Breakfast: This charming old world style accommodation has a homey feel and feels like a family home. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace and take in the surroundings.
• Island House Hotel: A little more modern than many properties on the island this property has a pool and a garden overlooking the streets and passing horse and carriages.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

From Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

There really is something for everyone in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, making it one of the best summer vacation ideas in the USA.

From stunning white sand beaches to historic towns, from family-friendly activities to nightlife, there is so much to see and experience.

The Outer Banks region is located along the northern part of North Carolina’s coast.

During the summer, the water offers plenty of activities!

Kayaking, sailing, fishing, swimming and surfing, are among the activities enjoyed by visitors.

Horseback riding, paragliding, hiking, biking, and golfing are also popular.

Visitors can choose between quiet seclusion or bustling activity.

If you’re looking for history, the Outer Banks has plenty of compelling sights, including the Wright Brothers Memorial at Kill Devil Hill where the first flight was taken, and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

Toward the southern part of the islands is the beautiful Cape Hatteras Lighthouse!

If you’re traveling with a group or family, head up north on the coast for some fun activities.

There are so many  things to do in Corolla, Outer Banks , where you’ll find wildlife refuges, the famous OBX wild horses, the historic Whalehead Club, and lighthouses to explore.

Pick up some souvenirs at Timbuk II shops while you’re in town!

Whatever you choose to do on your trip to the Outer Banks will be a memorable experience.

Where to Stay in Outer Banks

• Outer Banks Beach Club: Better book fast because this hotel in Kill Devil Hills sells out fast! The resort is set up as residence style apartments for a homey summer vacation with access to indoor and outdoor pools and views of the ocean.
• Wild Horse Inn: Situated in Corolla this pretty Inn provides comfortable accommodation with a garden and private parking. It is also walking distance to beaches.

30A, Florida

From Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

Situated on the Panhandle, just off the Gulf of Mexico, the hidden gem of 30A in Florida is one of the best places for a classic US summer beach vacation.

There are 26 miles of pristine beaches lined with white sand derived from quartz crystal, and emerald green waters, that are especially warm in summer! 

30A is split up into 16 neighborhoods, all with their own individual charms.

Watercolor Beach is a favorite amongst families, whereas couples enjoy the serenity of Rosemary Beach, especially if they stay at The Pearl Hotel (voted the most romantic hotel in Florida).

If diving is more your thing then Santa Rosa Beach is perfect, you can visit the free underwater sculpture park located a mile off the coast.

However, if you prefer kayaking or paddle boarding, then explore the unique coastal dune lakes at Grayton Beach and spot the wildlife. 

30A also has plenty of art galleries, boutique shopping, cycling trails, and distillery tours making it easy to spend a week at this coastal destination, especially as the temperatures in summer are usually in the high 80s!

One of the best places to stay no matter who you are traveling with is Sandestin Golf and Beach resort, it has luxury condos, hotel rooms, and villas so everyone is catered for.

Glacier National Park, Montana

From Nina of Where in the World is Nina?

For an absolutely epic USA summer vacation, it doesn’t get much better than Glacier National Park!

Unsurprisingly, hiking here is the thing to do if you want the best views and animal sightings. The most recommended hikes in the park include Iceberg Lake, Redrock Falls, and Hidden Lake Trail.

Iceberg Lake, a 9-mile trail, is popular for a reason!

Not only will you be rewarded with the gorgeous azure Iceberg Lake at the end, but your chances of seeing bears along the trail are also pretty high (which is both terrifying and exciting).

Redrock Falls Trail is a nice easy stroll to some small falls you can dip your feet in, and if you want to extend it, continue along the Swiftcurrent Pass trail for more gorgeous vistas.

Hidden Lake Trail is a popular trail just behind the visitor center, offering beautiful views as well.

There are tons of waterfall stops, a stunning drive along Going-to-The-Sun Road, and more to enjoy during your time in Glacier.

The park is spread across nearly a million acres, and considering hiking is the best thing to do and where some of the most worth-it places to visit are, you’re going to need to spend your 5-7 days here to make your summer trip here worth it. 

One of the best tips is to make sure you’re choosing   where to stay in Glacier National Park   in advance, as places fill up quickly in summer.

If you happen to be visiting later in the year, do keep in mind some campsites, accommodations, and even Going-to-the-Sun Road close up for the season.

Where to Stay in Glacier National Park

• The Islander Inn: Offering island style bungalows and suites on the edge of Flathead Lake in Bigfork, this is a great option for exploring the park.
• Grouse Mountain Lodge: For pet friendly accommodation this is a great option in Whitefish. Rooms are spacious and family friendly and the hotel is a short distance from the amenities in Whitefish.

Yellowstone + Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

From Stef of Open Road Odysseys

If you’re looking for an American summer vacation that includes breathtaking scenery, geothermal wonders, lots of wildlife, and remarkable attractions, look no further than a visit to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

These two national parks are located only a short distance apart and are a classic USA summer vacation.

With warm, sunny weather most of the season, as well as lots of hiking trails and outdoor activities, summer is a fantastic time to visit.

In Yellowstone, you can’t miss Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful Geyser, Upper and Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River, and Mammoth Hot Springs.

There are several geyser basins that are worth walking around and seeing if you can catch an eruption.

You’ll also see lots of wildlife, including bison, antelope, and elk. You may also be lucky enough to see a moose or a bear (from a safe distance, of course–hiking with bear spray is strongly recommended).

When you head to  Grand Teton National Park , make sure you drive around and stop at the dozens of lookouts, including Mormon Row, Schwabacher Landing, and Oxbow Bend.

If you like to hike, a great choice is Jenny Lake Trail to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

And don’t forget to spend a bit of time in the town of Jackson, where you’ll find lots of choices for food and shopping!

Where to Stay in Yellowstone + Grand Teton National Parks

• Elk Country Inn: Located in Jackson this is a great spot to base yourself for exploring the parks while having access to a great town.
• Explorer Cabins: Less than a kilometer away from the entrance at West Yellowstone these cabins are perfect for easy access and comfort.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From James of Parks Collecting

Acadia National Park is the perfect place to visit for a summer vacation in the US.

The park is spread over parts of Mount Desert Island (reached by a short bridge from the mainland), the tiny Isle au Haut, and the nearby Schoodic Peninsula, and as a result, it’s surrounded by water.

The park itself is covered in wooded hills, which are perfect for hiking.

The trails are their best in summer, when temperatures are ideal.

There are several iconic ‘iron rung’ hikes in Acadia – for part of the trails, you need to climb up iron rings embedded into the cliffs for part of them, as well as clamber along narrow ledges.

It can be a little scary, but the reward – spectacular views over the hills and surrounding islands – is well worth it. The most famous of these hikes is The Beehive, which is not to be missed.

Summer is also a great time for swimming in Acadia NP.

The only ocean beach, appropriately named Sand Beach, is chilly even in summer, but nearby Echo Lake has perfect temperatures for swimming.

There are also plenty of water sports, including kayaking and sailing, to enjoy.  Plus, summer is when puffins come to nearby islands to nest, and whales are often seen swimming in the surrounding seas.

June, July, and August are also perfect times for outdoor dining.

Don’t miss having popovers at Jordan Pond House! Tables are set up on the lawn, overlooking the beautiful Jordan Pond, and it’s a perfect way to while away a summer afternoon.

The national park is also laced with miles of historic carriage roads. Take a horse drawn carriage ride (only available in the warmer months) or rent a bike in nearby Bar Harbor and spend several hours cycling through the woods, cooling off in tiny streams along the way.

There is  so much to do in Acadia  that it makes the perfect summer vacation destination.

Where to Stay in Acadia National Park

• Acadia Inn: Located less than 2km from the park, the grounds have a trail that connects to the park for easy access from your doorstep. Rooms are clean and bright and comfortable after a long hike.
• Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: In the heart of Bar Harbor is, as the name suggests, a grand hotel! With swimming pool and sweeping views this is the perfect luxury spot to base your park explorations.

Yosemite National Park, California

From Nina and Garrett of California is for Adventure

Spending 5-7 days checking out all the  things to do in Yosemite National Park  is a dream trip for many, and for very good reason!

Yosemite National Park is deserving of at least a few days, but a week is ideal and will offer you a great overview of one of the country’s most popular destinations.

While visiting Yosemite in summer will certainly bring the crowds, this is still a great USA summer vacation spot!

If you come outside of summer, you risk some of the roads being closed and some of the best areas to visit totally inaccessible—most notably, Glacier Point Road.

Glacier Point Road is a highlight of Yosemite National Park and deserving of a day or two during your summer visit.

The road is typically open for the summer season starting in late May, though it can vary based on conditions.

Hike up Sentinel Dome and Taft Point for a great leg stretcher and epic views of Half Dome.

Glacier Point at the end of the road is a stunning area to wander with some of the park’s best views.

In Yosemite Valley, hiking up Vernal Falls is a must, and if you can, continue on to Nevada Falls for a more challenging hike (and thinner crowds).

Wandering The Valley and stopping at the viewpoints and roadside waterfalls are also some nice leisurely activities during your visit.

Other days can be spent expanding into the giant sequoia forests at Merced Grove or taking a relaxing dip in Tenaya Lake!

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

• Tenaya Lodge: Nestled in the mountains of Fish Camp, this beautiful lodge is perfect for a summer base in Yosemite. There is also an on site spa to relax any sore hiking muscles.
• Alpenhof Lodge: Located at the pretty Mammoth Lakes, this hotel is close to Yosemite as well as the attractions in Mammoth Lakes including the Mammoth Mountain Gondola.

Summer Road Trip Through Vermont

From Emily of Emily Embarks

To enjoy one of the best places to visit over summer break in the USA, take to the trails in Vermont!

Known for its picturesque landscapes and rustic charm, Vermont is undoubtedly one of the best USA summer vacation destinations.

Preferably explored over the course of 5-7 days (though you won’t be sorry if you have some more time to spare), you can start your journey in the Green Mountain State with a full day at the Killington Ski Resort.

No, there’s no snow come July and August, but that’s what makes it perfect for day hiking and epic views across the Appalachian Mountains.

Be sure to get a celebratory drink at the mountaintop bar and reward yourself with a stunning gondola ride back down to the valley below!

From Killington, head an hour north to the beautiful capital of Montpelier.

Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of local independent stores and plenty of delicious restaurants and breweries.

If you’re looking for an activity, take a kayaking or canoeing tour down the Winooski River and enjoy being surrounded by untamed nature.

Or, if you prefer to go for a leisurely stroll, don’t miss the city’s vibrant farmers market that takes place on State Street every Saturday in the summer months.

After spending a night or two in Vermont’s iconic capital, head 30 minutes north to Stowe where you’ll find a small town overflowing with antique shops, art galleries, decadent chocolate stores (be sure to check out Laughing Moon Chocolates), and amazing breweries (Von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall is a personal favorite).

From Stowe, you can finish off your itinerary with a drive south towards Woodstock if you’ll be leaving the state, or you can continue your journey north to the beautiful city of Burlington which overlooks Lake Champlain.

To combine your classic American summer trip with an international one, you can also hop across the border to Montreal or Quebec City–just be sure to pick up some currency and  brush up on your French   prior to heading into Canada!

Where to Stay in Vermont

• Montpelier – The Inn at Montpelier: This cute Vermont inn has cosy rooms and a great on site restaurant. It is in a great location and free parking for your car to rest on your road trip!
• Burlington: Green Mountain Suites Hotel : This stunning mountain style lodge is packed with amenities as well as luxurious bedrooms. Breakfast is also included in the restaurant overlooking the gardens.

National Parks of Washington State Road Trip

From Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful road trips in the country to take this summer, then look no further than a Washington National Park road trip.

You’ll hit three of the country’s national parks plus the state’s largest city, Seattle .

Summer is the perfect time to pay a visit to these parks because there will be little to no snow on the trails, which doesn’t happen often when you’re tucked away in the mountains.

Starting with Mount Rainier National Park , embark on popular trails such as the Skyline Trail or Naches Peak Loop, search for mountain goats, and see Myrtle Falls.

Next will be Olympic National Park, on the Pacific coastline.

When planning your Olympic National Park itinerary , make sure to leave room for some time exploring the Hoh Rainforest, one of the country’s few rainforests, time to search for tide pools at Rialto Beach, and time to enjoy the views from Hurricane Hill.

Before heading off to the final national park, make a stop in Seattle for some seafood and explore Pike Place Market and highlights like the Space Needle.

Lastly, North Cascades National Park offers remoteness, jagged mountain peaks, and beautiful hikes such as Maple Pass and Blue Lake.

Combined, these beautiful national parks easily rank among the best places to visit in the USA on a summer vacation.

Where to Stay in Washington State

• Mount Rainier National Park – Mountain Meadows Inn: Stay in Ashford just 10km away from the park in this quaint inn. Enjoy morning coffee on the sundeck overlooking the expansive gardens.
• Olympic National Park – Olympic Railway Inn: Turn your road trip into a themed stay and book this unique accommodation. Each ‘room’ is in a renovated train carriage, each with a different theme. No detail has been spared, some rooms even have a roll top bath.
• North Cascades National Park – Mt Baker Hotel: The rural landscape of North Cascades means there is little to choose from in accommodation, but this hotel in Concrete is a solid option for close proximity to the park.

Classic Route 66 Road Trip

From Kylie of Between England & Everywhere

A fantastic USA summer vacation idea is taking a road trip along Historic Route 66.

Route 66 is officially 2448 miles long, stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California.

Popular side trips from the route include Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas .

A solid 2-3 weeks is a reasonable amount of time to spend traveling Route 66 but it could be made a little shorter or longer depending on flexibility!

When traveling through the 8 states included on Route 66 (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California), there are hundreds of things to do and attractions to see, ranging from interesting parks to quirky roadside attractions.

Highlights include the Blue Whale in Catoosa, OK, Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX , staying in a wigwam in Holbrook, AZ, and seeing the wild Burros along the Oatman Highway, AZ.

Those traveling with kids (or adults that are big kids at heart!), may enjoy Route 66’s connection to the Disney Pixar Cars movie.

Radiator Springs   doesn’t actually exist as an individual town, however, real-life people and places along the whole of Route 66 inspired many of the characters and businesses in the fictional town.

Where to Stay on Route 66

• Catoosa – La Quinta: With plenty of amenities such as an on site swimming pool, hot tub and fitness centre this is a great stop off along Route 66.
• Amarillo – The Big Texan Motel: When passing through Texas you should get as involved in the Texan style as you can, this hotel is a perfect example of that!
• Holbrook – Starlight Wigwam: A highlight of the trip is staying in a wigwam in Holbrook. These are equipped with comfortable beds and seating to stargaze in the clear skies of Arizona

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

From Victoria of Southern Trippers

One of the best summer vacation ideas in the USA is to enjoy an amazing road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway . 

This incredible 469-mile drive will take you through the Blue Ridge Mountains and past amazing mountain landscapes as you make your way from Charlottesville, Virginia to Asheville, North Carolina .

And while there are many places to stop along the way, major attractions include Humpback Gap, Natural Bridge State Park, the Blueridge Music Center, and more. 

Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time since the speed limit on this road is often just 45 mph.

With enough sightseeing along the way, this short road trip could easily take you upwards of a week to complete. 

You also cannot do this trip without making a well-deserved pit stop at Rough Ridge Overlook. Not only are the views incredible but you can enjoy a fun hike to Linville Falls too.

And then when you finally make it to Asheville, don’t forget to visit the Asheville Art Museum and the idyllic Biltmore Estate . 

Then, grab a pint of amazing craft beer at Wicked Weed Brewing Pub before checking out some stellar panoramas of the mountains at the historic Omni Grove Park Inn !

Where to Stay on Blue Ridge Parkway

• Charlottesville – 200 South Street Inn : For some old world charm stay at this charming inn with a pretty sundeck, cosy rooms and an incredible breakfast served every morning.
• Asheville – Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.

Oregon Coast Road Trip

From Jac of Weekend Path

Road-tripping the Oregon Coast is a quintessential summer vacation in the United States.

With wild beaches, forest-filled hikes, and delicious food and craft beer to sample, you certainly won’t get bored on the Oregon Coast!

Summer is the best time to visit the Oregon Coast if you want to experience good weather; during other seasons, it can be pretty rainy and cold.

There are lots of different routes you can take, but if you have 5-7 days for your trip, one of the best driving loops starts in Portland .

From Portland, you can drive to Astoria, Cannon Beach, Newport, and Florence before looping back to Portland via the inland I-5 freeway.

Highlights along an Oregon Coast road trip include Ecola State Park, Short Sand Beach, and Cape Perpetua.

For food stops along your trip, don’t miss Pelican Brewing in Cannon Beach and the Tillamook Cheese Factory in Tillamook.

You’ll find plenty of hotel options in the major towns along the Oregon Coast, but an even better option is to go camping!

In addition to regular campsites, most of the Oregon Coast State Parks have yurts you can rent.

Make sure to book ahead, though, as campsites and yurts are both popular in the summertime.

Where to Stay on Oregon Coast

• Portland – Hotel Lucia: This luxury hotel is a perfect choice to stay in Portland, rooms are spacious and stylish and the bar area is also well stocked with craft beers. Parking is also available.
• Cannon Beach – Ecola Creek Lodge: A great mix of motel and self catering, this lodge is close to Ecola State Park and offers free parking. There is a pretty deck to enjoy the summer sun.
• Tillamook – Tillamook Bay City: This is a great place to book into a yurt and enjoy the outdoors life for your stay. The yurts are cosy and surprisingly spacious, definitely worth trying for something different.

South Dakota Road Trip

From Kristin of World on Wheels

South Dakota is one of the best USA summer vacation destinations because it has so much to offer.

You can explore  Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park, and enjoy the amazing scenery that South Dakota has to offer.  

Custer State Park is a large and incredible area not to be missed during your trip.

It has mountains, lake views, plenty of hiking opportunities as well as tons of wildlife.

Make sure to look for Bison, Pronghorn, Big Horned Sheep, wild donkeys, and more during your time in the park.

In fact, many people choose to stay in one of the campgrounds or lodges located within the park for convenient access to all the area has to offer.

You can also add Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial to your summer vacation itinerary.

If you are visiting these locations from Custer State Park, make sure to take the scenic tunnel drive to get there.

This drive will take you through rocky tunnels which perfectly frame Mount Rushmore as you drive through them.

Kids will love visiting Bear USA, and the Mammoth Site, an active archeological site where you can see actual Mammoth bones.

You can also tour an old gold mine and learn more about the Gold Rush era.  

The best part of visiting South Dakota is that all the activities listed above are in the same area and can make for a fabulous weeklong vacation in the USA.

Visiting in the summer will also give you incredible weather for exploring.

Choose to visit in the early or late summer (May-June or late August-early September) for fewer crowds and to avoid the hottest weather.

Where to Stay in South Dakota

• Badlands National Park – Badlands Frontier Cabins: Staying in a cabin is always a great option on a road trip and these cozy cabins are a great choice. They are the perfect balance of rustic and are located in Wall, right next to the park.
• Custer State Park – Little Joy Bungalows: Another great cabin option is this bungalow on a cute site in Custer. There is a pretty deck to sit on with a stunning mountain view.

Florida Springs Road Trip

From Victoria of Florida Trippers

A Florida Springs road trip is an incredible trip for anyone looking for some great USA summer vacation ideas. 

After all, this great state is home to more freshwater springs than any other spot in the country!

So, make the most of this and cool off from the intense summer heat with a fantastic road trip to some of the best natural springs in Florida . 

To start, head north of Tampa and check out the Weeki Wachee Springs.

And while the spring itself is stunning, there’s a cool mermaid show in an underwater theater that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. 

Next, ditch the hordes of tourists and experience Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River Natural Wildlife Refuge before renting a kayak and seeing what Manatee Springs has to offer.

Just know that while this is a great place to see manatees, there are typically only seen in the waters here during the winter months. 

However, if you love the great outdoors then be sure to add Ginnie Springs to your itinerary. It features amazing camping spots and is a great place to go tubing on the river.

But, for a truly unique experience head to Devil’s Den in central Florida. This spring is incredibly memorable since it is completely subterranean. 

You’ll have to walk down a long wooden staircase beneath a cavern if you want to access the cool waters here!

Where to Stay in Florida Springs

• Weeki Wachee Springs – Vintage Waterfront Home: This cozy villa is just 5km from the springs and comes equipped with kayaks to use on the river directly outside the villa. There is also a fabulous fireplace perfect for any chilly evenings or warming up after a day on the water!
• Ginnie Springs – Santa Fe River Landing: If you prefer not to camp then this is a marvellous alternative. Set as a private holiday home but with shared facilities similar to a hotel, such as a fitness center. Free bikes are also on offer to explore the area and get to the springs just 16km away.

Grand Circle Road Trip, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona

From Jennifer of Glasses and Boarding Passes

If you’re looking for the best USA summer vacation ideas, nothing is more classic than a road trip around the Grand Circle , which includes Utah’s five national parks and Arizona’s Grand Canyon!

From sprawling canyons to otherworldly red rocks, the landscapes of the southwest can’t be beaten.

Start your trip in Las Vegas and drive the Grand Circle clockwise to Zion National Park, where you can pick from two of the most famous hikes in the world: Angel’s Landing or the Narrows.

Head to Bryce Canyon for an epic sunrise over the hoodoo-filled valley.

Next, stop at Capitol Reef National Park for an off-road adventure to visit the white rocky monoliths of the Temple of the Sun and Moon.

In Arches National Park, don’t miss a visit to the aptly-named Delicate Arch .

At neighboring Canyonlands, enjoy the sunrise at Mesa Arch and grab that famous sunburst photo.

Finally, round out your trip with a hike around the rim of the Grand Canyon for some truly breathtaking views.

While the long, sunny summer days make it a great time to see these parks, don’t underestimate the heat in the desert.

Always pack plenty of water , wear sunscreen , and hike in the morning where possible!

Where to Stay on a Grand Circle Road Trip

• Zion National Park – Zion View Camping: This site is a perfect way to experience camping with a touch of luxury. Book into one of the covered wagons with private deck and take in the epic views of Zion.
• Arches National Park – Big Horn Lodge: For a refreshingly iconic lodge style accommodation this motel is a great option. With delicious on site restaurant as well as a heated outdoor swimming pool, this is perfect for resting after exploring the nearby parks.
• Grand Canyon – Cabins at Grand Canyon West: It is hard to find somewhere closer to the canyon than these cabins. They are less than 3km from the Skywalk with amazing views from every cabin.

Northern California Road Trip

From Anu of Destination Checkoff

Northern California is a treasure trove of incredible places to visit in the USA, and summer is a great time to embark on a Northern California road trip.

The weather is excellent during the late summer (June can be rainy in the Bay Area), and the daylight hours are longer giving you more time to explore.

San Francisco is a great base to start and end your road trip as you can fly from pretty much anywhere to San Francisco. 

Spend a few days in San Francisco and check out the popular San Francisco neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park,  Haight-Ashbury , Sausalito, Ferry Building, and Embarcadero.

Be sure to also see the famous Golden Gate Bridge, and consider a day trip to Muir Woods to be amazed by the redwood trees.

Mendocino and Fort Bragg are great coastal cities on the Northern California Pacific Coast.

From there you can drive to Mount Shasta and enjoy some great hiking.

Lassen National Park is a great volcanic park with geothermal activity, and nearby Burney Falls is also worth a visit.

From Lassen make your way to Lake Tahoe, a picturesque lake with lots of recreational activities like hiking, parasailing, canoeing, and swimming at the many beaches. Spend at least a couple of nights in Lake Tahoe.

Finally, drive back to San Francisco from Tahoe to conclude your USA summer vacation.

Plan for at least 10 days for this road trip so that you can spend a couple of days or more at each of these incredible places on the way.

Where to Stay in Northern California

• San Francisco – Petit Auberge: For an iconic start to your trip this adorable hotel in Nob Hill is the perfect place to begin. Styled like a French Auberge with cozy furnishings and fireplaces in the rooms, opening onto pretty terraces, the hotel also has private parking. Essential in the city.
• Mendocino – Headlands Inn Bed & Breakfast: Keeping with the cute theme, this Victorian B&B is 5 minutes walk away from the beach and perfectly maintained. Rooms have fabulous feather beds and fluffy duvets, and many of the rooms have wood-burning fireplaces and ocean views. Breakfasts are also stunning.
• Lake Tahoe – Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge: Located right on the edge of Lake Tahoe this is the perfect summer resort. There are also private beach concerts in the summer. The lodge also has an on site spa and lake views from the rooms.

Colorado Rockies Summer Road Trip

From Sierra of Island + Alpine

The stunning Colorado Rocky Mountains are easily one of the best places to to visit in the USA over summer!

Summer is the perfect time to visit as the weather is warm but mild, the roads are clear of the winter snow, and the land is alive with the colors of wildflowers and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Denver is the gateway to the Rockies in Colorado and its airport makes for a great place to start a trip through the mountains.

The mile high step on the Capitol building, the street art in the RiNo district, a Rockies baseball game, and numerous breweries are all great activities to enjoy before heading out of the city.

Rocky Mountain National Park is located right by Estes Park , just north of Denver, neither should be missed!

The historic downtown is charming, and it is just minutes to the gate into the park.

The park offers incredible scenery when driving Trail Ridge Road and picking up a souvenir in the Alpine Visitor’s Center, a beautiful hike to Emerald Lake and Alberta Falls, the easy walk around Bear Lake, as well as the chance to see wildlife at dusk each evening.

Located within a couple hours of Estes Park, several other incredible mountain towns can be enjoyed as day trips or home bases for other legs of the trip.

In Breckenridge, summer provides the opportunity to take the free BreckConnect gondola up to Peak 8, ride the alpine slide down the mountain, mine for gems, hike the many trails from town, discover the Breckenridge Troll, and  many other adventurous activities .

Check out Steamboat Springs for white water rafting, hot springs, and hiking to Fish Creek Falls.

Georgetown is also a great stop with its Georgetown Loop Railroad complete with outlaws, stunning views, and a silver mine tour.

No matter which mountain towns you choose to explore, the options are endless for a summer vacation in the Colorado Rockies!

Where to Stay in Colorado Rockies

• Denver – The Slate: Located in Denver center this stunning hotel is a great start to your road trip. Rooms are spacious and stylish and you are well situated to explore the city from here.
• Estes Park – Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Breckenridge – Longbranch: Accommodation in Breckenridge can get booked quickly and is often wildly expensive, but this apartment is a great option without breaking the bank.

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Easily one of the best USA summer vacation ideas, Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake that straddles the border between Nevada and California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

As a result, there are a ton of incredible things to do in this oasis of natural beauty all summer long.

Highlights include hopping aboard a catamaran and cruising through the lake with Action Water Sports before taking a ride on the Heavenly Mountain Gondola so that you can admire sweeping panoramic views of the area all around you.

Next, make the most of the beautiful weather and enjoy one of the  best Lake Tahoe hikes   since many of these trails become totally impassable in the winter.

Amazing hikes in the area include Cave Rock, the Eagle Falls hike, Marlette Lake, Mt. Rose, and the Emerald Bay hike.

For the latter, be sure to bring a bathing suit since there are plenty of places to swim along the way.

And if you still want to do a bit more swimming, then you can always visit amazing local beaches like Sand Harbor, Emerald Bay, and Zephyr Cove.

Whatever you do though, don’t leave without visiting Bonsai Rock, a cool natural rock formation in the lake that is well worth a stop for a photo.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

• Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge: Located right on the edge of Lake Tahoe this is the perfect summer resort. There are also private beach concerts in the summer. The lodge also has an on site spa and lake views from the rooms.
• Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing: Close to Zephyr Cove this resort features individual suites with private terraces and fireplaces in each room.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Theresa of The Local Tourist

There are a lot of reasons Door County, Wisconsin, has long been a summer getaway destination for Chicagoans and other Midwesterners.

One of the biggest is its outstanding natural beauty. The peninsula is home to five state parks and nearly thirty county parks.

With three-hundred miles of coastline, it’s a popular spot for boating and fishing.

One of the coolest things to do in Door County is kayak to Cave Point and float into the caves.

It’s also fun to take a guided boat tour and learn the history of the area, and why there were so many shipwrecks. (But don’t worry; it’s safe now.)

If you want a relaxing vacation, there are sandy beaches.

There are no chain stores or restaurants in the quaint harbor towns that line the shores, so you’re sure to find unique shopping and dining.

One of the most well-known restaurants is Al Johnson’s. While the Swedish cuisine is good, the goats on the roof are what really draw attention.

A Door County dining experience you’ll definitely want to experience is an authentic fish boil. It’s dinner and a show rolled into one.

Don’t forget to finish it off with a giant ice cream sundae at Wilson’s.

A unique place to stay on the peninsula is Schoolhouse Inn. It’s an intimate hotel in the former Baileys Harbor Schoolhouse.

Where to Stay in Door County

• Sister Bay – Country House Resort: Located in one of the pretty towns in Door County this resort has lots of facilities and spacious rooms with balconies and views of the coast.
• Ephraim – The Lodgings at Pioneer Lane: This pretty Inn is a typical Door County property with cozy rooms, beautiful views and warm hospitality. Free bikes are also on offer, perfect for cycling to the nearby Cana Island Lighthouse.

Southwest Colorado

From Caitlin of Twin Family Travels

If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer road trip, then southwest Colorado is the perfect destination.

With its dramatic mountain scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, you’ll be able to enjoy a wealth of amazing experiences.

Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply taking in incredible views, you’re sure to have a memorable time.

Taking a classic USA summer vacation is a great way to explore southwest Colorado.

The weather is warm and the days are long, providing plenty of time to enjoy all that the area has to offer.

Another advantage of summer is that you will not need to worry about poor road conditions caused by the weather.

There are plenty of scenic drives to take including the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway.

Take a train ride in Durango, a mine tour in Silverton, soak in hot springs and hike to waterfalls in Ouray, ride the free gondola and do some shopping in Telluride.

Don’t miss the hiking and biking trails at the amazing national parks! Sled and summit a dune at Great Sand Dunes.

Be sure to tour the ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde . Drive the mesa top loop and stay at the lodge to get sunset views.

Enjoy the sights along the South Rim Scenic Drive and hike the rim of the canyon at the epic Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

If you’re looking for an adventure this summer, be sure to add southwest Colorado to your list!

Where to Stay in Southwest Colorado

• Durango – General Palmer Hotel : For some old-fashioned elegance this is a great hotel for your trip, there is even a library! The Durango and Silverton Railway is just 130m away.
• Great Sand Dunes – Sandhill Inn & Suites: With bright and fresh rooms this is the perfect place to rest. There is also a hot tub!
• South Rim Scenic Drive – Teller House: Another old-timer charming hotel, this is the perfect place for exploring the scenic drive and sights around Silverton. Rooms also have beautiful mountain views to wake up to.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

From Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

If you’re looking for an offbeat getaway this summer, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota is a fantastic summer destination in the USA.

This wilderness area is wild and pristine and is perfect for anyone who loves an outdoor adventure and spending quality time in nature.

The Boundary Waters area is absolutely chock full of lakes, so visiting the Boundary Waters is a multi-day canoe trip filled with exploring forests, waterfalls, and, of course, beautiful lakes.

Most people spend several hours each day paddling across the lakes to reach their next campsite and portaging to cross between lakes.

Once you’re done canoeing, go swimming or cliff jumping, go fishing, explore the area (there are hikes and waterfalls you can climb), watch birds and wild animals, or just relax at your campsite.

Permits are required and limited in number, and campsites are very spread out, so you will hardly see another person while in the Boundary Waters.

The water is crystal clear and the views are incredible!

Thanks to its far north location, this trip can really only be done in summer, so put it on your calendar now!

Where to Stay in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

• South Pier Inn: Settled right on the edge of Lake Superior this is a great waterfront base. Book a suite for lake views from your balcony.
• Sheraton Duluth Hotel: For a classic modern hotel with all the amenities this is a great option in the area. Every room has either city views or lake views, there is also an on-site fitness centre with a hot tub.

Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio

From Jenn of Those Johnson Boys

If you love the outdoors, Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio should definitely be on your radar this summer!

Located about an hour southeast of Columbus, Ohio, you’ll be able to unplug, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy the warm, Midwest summer weather.

When visiting, you won’t want to miss the  hiking trails . Each trail is unique, with varying length and difficulty.

Some are even handicap accessible and pet friendly, so everyone can enjoy this beautiful area.

When you head out on your hike, you’ll soon feel like you were transported to a different world, as you’ll be surrounded by huge rock formations, towering trees, and lush greenery.

While Hocking Hills is known for the hiking trails, there are plenty of other fun things to do in the area to keep you busy.

You can visit the college campus of Ohio University, do a wine tasting at Hocking Hills Winery, check out a couple of the breweries nearby, enjoy some time at the spa, attend a blown glass workshop, or stargaze at the John Glenn Astronomy Park.

When choosing accommodation, aim to stay in the heart of Hocking Hills to really get the full experience.

Where to Stay in Hocking Hills State Park

• The Inn at Cedar Falls: This idyllic cottage-style accommodation is hidden in the forest and the perfect location. Set up as individual cottages with spa bathtubs and onsite spa facilities as well as dining facilities, it feels like private accommodation with your own catering and spa!
• Acorn Cottage: Another cute cottage option is this self-contained cottage with a sweet deck and cozy interior. Easy access to nearby Logan and your own private hot tub!

Lake Placid, New York

From Samantha of PA on Pause

Sometimes forgotten about, tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, Lake Placid is a great destination for a USA summer vacation.

There are nearly endless outdoor activities and things to do in Lake Placid in summer , best experienced when the snow has finally melted from the high peaks.

You can climb to the top of Mount Marcy, the tallest point in the state of New York, or the 45 other 4,000+ footers in the Adirondack Mountains.

If this sounds too adventurous, you can still experience the views from a high peak by driving to the top of Whiteface Mountain.

Views from the access road are stunning, and there are plenty of pull-offs to stop and enjoy.

Once you reach the end of the road, you can enjoy the views from there or continue on a few hundred yards over uneven, rocky stairs to reach the actual summit.

Spend your days out chasing waterfalls, and evenings enjoying a delicious dinner by the lake on one of the outdoor restaurant patios. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and float the day away on the lake. 

Don’t forget to explore some of the historic Olympic sites from the 1980 games. Travel to the top of the ski jump ramp and see the views that jumpers have just before flying downhill, or try out the bobsled track experience. 

You won’t be bored on your summer vacation in Lake Placid!

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

• Town House Lodge: Set on acres of private gardens with an outdoor swimming pool, this lodge is a fantastic option for Lake Placid. Rooms are comfortable and have kitchenettes if you like to keep your own snacks on hand!
• Mirror Lake Inn & Spa: For a luxury stay this is the perfect place to book during your Lake Placid trip. Situated on the banks of Mirror Lake with views of the Adirondack Mountains, this spa resort has plush rooms, incredible beds and views from every room. The onsite restaurant is also first-class if you don’t feel like venturing out to eat at the end of the day.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

From Jenny of Traveling in Focus

Summertime in Bayfield, Wisconsin, is truly special.

Nestled on the shore of Lake Superior, Bayfield offers a variety of activities to enjoy and makes for a memorable summer vacation in America.

One popular activity is taking an apostle boat tour, which takes you around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore to see its spectacular sea caves, lighthouses, and cliff formations.

Keep a lookout for bald eagles and snow that still clings to the cliffs even in summer.

Drive the “fruit loop” and visit all the fruit farms in the area.

Whether your preference is cherries, strawberries, or some other berry, you are sure to find it here.

One of the best things to do is hop on the ferry to Madeleine Island for the day.

Rent a bike or moped to get around the island and visit Big Bay State Park, the stunning beaches, and wander through the shops in town.

And there is nothing better than grabbing an ice cream cone and sitting along the waterfront.

June is incredibly picturesque when the city celebrates “Bayfield In Bloom.” This annual event sees thousands of vibrant daffodils on display all over town.

Take a self-guided tour through the blooms that add a splash of color and beauty to the streets.

With so much to do in summer, don’t miss your opportunity to visit one of the best small coastal towns in the US.

Where to Stay in Bayfield

• Woodland Lodging: Set up as private suites this cabin-style accommodation is a lovely place. to stay in Bayfield. With private terraces and well-equipped kitchenettes, you have everything you need to get cozy. Sit on the terrace and enjoy the sounds of the forest in summer.
• Old Rittenhouse Inn: Perfect for old-world charm and traditional hospitality, this Inn is a step back in time and wonderfully comfortable. Rooms have huge bathtubs and overlook the pretty gardens. Breakfast is served in the charming dining room every morning.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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20 summer vacation ideas across the U.S.

Make the most of your time off this summer..

This story was updated in April 2024.

There can be a lot of pressure around picking the right destination for your summer vacation. How do you find a place the whole group will like, one that offers the right mix of activities and relaxation? Take the guesswork out of planning with this guide to some of the best warm-weather vacation spots in the United States. From Seattle to Portland, Maine , and Florida’s Delray Beach to Bozeman, MT—there’s something for everyone.

Sunshine and 70-degree weather are Seattleites’ reward for enduring a long winter, so expect to see locals out enjoying the surrounding mountains, lakes, beaches, and national parks. ( North Cascades National Park and Olympic National Park are both within a two-hour drive.) Summer brings the least amount of rainfall and with it peak visibility, making it an ideal time to look out over the city from the iconic Space Needle , spot orca whales near the San Juan Islands , or simply post up on a patio with a view and a cold one (a self-guided tasting tour of the Ballard Brewery District highlights Washington’s status as the largest producer of hops in the country).

A quintessential summer must-do: Pike Place Market features an evening farmer’s market and Sunset Supper, an alfresco fundraiser with nearly 100 local chefs.

The underrated pick: Seattle has several sandy beaches ( Alki Beach is a popular spot) but because the water stays cold year-round, many opt for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Rent from an area outfitter and put in near the quirky Gas Works Park on Lake Union for panoramic skyline views.

Where to stay

Bozeman, MT

Hiking trails lined with wildflowers, horseback riding, mountain biking, fly fishing—there’s no shortage of things to do in Montana come summertime. And while it’s not unheard of to have snow flurries in June (pro tip: pack layers), temperatures in Bozeman typically hover in the 80s during the day and drop down into the 40s at night—ideal conditions for gathering around a campfire. Get your fill of Americana at the weekly Valley View Rodeo or the annual Bozeman Stampede in August. You can also easily tack on a trip to the nation’s first national park since Yellowstone is only an hour and a half away.

A quintessential summer must-do: Locals love a leisurely float along the Madison River and Madison River Tubes makes it easy with tube rentals and shuttle service. For a more hair-raising experience, join a guided whitewater rafting trip down the Gallatin River.

The underrated pick: Big Sky Country boasts epic sunsets and plenty of spots for unobstructed viewing, including the wheelchair-accessible Peet’s Hill at Burke Park . The popular College ‘M’ Trail requires more effort but provides a bird’s-eye view of the Gallatin Valley—just be sure to bring a headlamp for the hike down.

With a population of less than 5,000, Vail is a tiny town with a big reputation for outdoor fun. As in the winter, summer activities revolve around Vail Mountain , one of the country's largest ski resorts. Two lifts continue to run even after the snow is gone: Gondola One will take you from the Bavarian-inspired Vail Village to casual mountain-top dining and scenic hiking trails, while the Eagle Bahn Gondola leaves from Lionshead Village and heads to Epic Discovery , a high-altitude playground with a mountain coaster, tubing hill, and mini-golf course. At the base of the mountain, explore the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens or get tickets to one of the many seasonal fests, from the Vail Dance Festival to the months-long Bravo! Vail music festival.

A quintessential summer must -do: The open-air Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater , a.k.a. The Amp, puts on a picturesque, free concert series called Hot Summer Nights . Pack a picnic with supplies from The Grazing Fox or Root & Flower .

The underrated pick: Every Saturday, stretch out at one of Mountain Top Yoga ’s outdoor classes overlooking the valley.

This charming SoCal city has warm weather year-round, but the summer is a particularly great time to visit, thanks to a full calendar of events. Taste pale ales at San Diego County Fair ’s International Beer Festival in June or celebrate the Fourth of July by watching the state’s largest fireworks show from the flight deck of the USS Midway , America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier. Throughout the summer, the world-famous San Diego Zoo stays open late for a chance to see nocturnal critters and the vast Balboa Park hosts Food Truck Fridays with live music, kids' activities, and discounted, after-hours admission to the San Diego Natural History Museum , the San Diego Museum of Art , and more.

A quintessential summer must-do: La Jolla Cove routinely ranks as one of the best beaches in the country in our Travelers’ Choice Awards . Go for the crystal-clear water and the opportunity to snorkel with (harmless) leopard sharks but stay for the jaw-dropping sunsets.

The underrated pick: Take the trolley to Old Town San Diego to see the 200-year-old adobe buildings that make up California’s oldest settlement. Afterward, indulge in freshly made tortillas and a margarita sampler at Cafe Coyote .

Portland, Maine

Maine is synonymous with fresh seafood and you’re guaranteed to get your fill in the summer. Plan your trip around the Yarmouth Clam Festival in July or the Maine Lobster Festival held the first weekend of August in nearby Rockland. Or simply stroll along the cobblestone streets of Portland’s picturesque Old Port and pick between one of the area’s stand-out restaurants: Scales serves everything from “chowdah” to whole steamed lobsters, while the James Beard Award–winning chefs at Eventide Oyster Company offer a twist on the classic lobster roll.

A quintessential summer must-do: Board a wooden, made-in-Maine Windjammer with Portland Schooner Co. to explore Casco Bay.

The underrated pick: May through October, take a docent-led tour of the Portland Observatory , a relic of the “Golden Age of Sail” and the country’s only remaining historic maritime signal station.

Napa Valley and Sonoma, CA

Summer is growing season in California’s lush wine region and while the grapes will be out in full force, harvest doesn’t happen until the fall. Get a sense of what’s to come at Taste of Sonoma in June and Taste of Napa in July. The latter is part of Festival Napa Valley , a weeks-long celebration of local talent, including chefs, artists, and musicians. Another musical event worth planning a trip around is the Broadway and Vine series, which brings Tony Award–winning stars to town to perform show tunes and raise money for educational programming. And what better backdrop than the vineyards?

A quintessential summer must-do: While the area is famous for its Bordeaux-based red wines, the warm weather is a perfect excuse to sample another varietal—Chardonnay—in chilled form. Rombauer Vineyards has the ultimate buttery version or you can do an all-white tasting at Cakebread Cellars .

The underrated pick: Schedule in some R&R with a spa day at The Four Seasons —think Calistoga mud treatments and outdoor garden loungers—or The Meritage Resort ’s underground spa built into the side of a wine cave. Both are open to the public.

Jackson Hole, WY

There’s a sign at the top of Teton Pass that points to the Jackson Hole valley below and declares it “The Last of the Old West.” Ride around the Town Square in an old stagecoach, catch a reenactment of the Jackson Hole Shootout , attend a biweekly rodeo , or head into the woods for a chuckwagon dinner .

Summer also showcases a different side of the area’s famous ski resorts. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers discounted evening gondola rides to The Deck @ Piste for an unforgettable happy hour, while Snow King Mountain has an observatory for stargazing at 8,000 feet and a concert series at the summit featuring Grammy Award–winning acts.

A quintessential summer must-do: Don’t leave without tackling at least one hike in Grand Teton National Park , located roughly 10 minutes to the north. The Jenny Lake Trail features stunning views of the alpine lake below and Hidden Falls —plus the option to take a boat ride back.

The underrated pick: The bumpy dirt road leading to Granite Hot Springs Pool is not for the faint of heart (a 4x4 is recommended) but it’s worth it for a serene soak amidst mountain views.

Friday Harbor, WA

Getting to this picturesque coastal town that’s considered the gateway to the San Juan Islands is half the fun. Most visitors take the Anacortes Ferry , but you can also charter a boat or seaplane from Seattle . Once there, go for a stroll and admire the colorful architecture along the waterfront, then pop into the boutiques and cafes lining Spring Street. The Saturday San Juan Island Farmers Market showcases the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, while the July lavender festival at Pelindaba Lavender Farm promises cooking demos, tours, and picnics in the fragrant fields.

A quintessential summer must-do: While orcas live here year-round, migrating whales (including humpback and minke) are abundant in the summer. Spot from the shores of Lime Kiln Point State Park or get a closer look on a boat tour with Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching .

The underrated pick: Check out the burgeoning art scene at the free San Juan Islands Sculpture Park or, on a rainy day, head to the San Juan Islands Museum of Art to view works by William Morris, Ansel Adams, and Ai Weiwei.

Delray Beach, FL

Delray Beach is West Palm Beach ’s more laid-back, artsy cousin, making it a great place for vacationing families. Head to the town’s eponymous beach along the Atlantic Ocean for surfing, sunbathing, and pick-up games of sand volleyball. When you’ve had enough sun, there’s the palm-tree-lined Atlantic Avenue with its antique shops and art galleries or Sandoway House Nature Center , a converted 1930s home with exhibits on Florida’s ecosystems and a stingray touch tank. Low-key nightlife options include the First Friday Art Walk , a free twilight concert series at Old School Square , and Art & Jazz on the Avenue , a street fair with dining, dancing, and live mural paintings.

A quintessential summer must-do: Pick up some gardening tips at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens , a 200-acre cultural center that honors the contributions of Japanese farmers who called the area home in the early 1900s.

The underrated pick: The Silverball Museum packs a nostalgic punch with retro video games, pinball machines, and the original skeeball alleys from New York’s Coney Island Arcade.

Williamsburg, VA

Colonial Williamsburg brings the pomp and pageantry to Independence Day, kicking things off with a reading of the Declaration of Independence by “Thomas Jefferson” (just one of many costumed interpreters who bring the past to life at the 300-acre living history museum). In town, the Williamsburg Inn puts on a special afternoon tea with a Revolution-inspired menu. And, of course, there’s the grand finale: a firework show over the Governor’s Palace .

Any other day, visit Historic Jamestowne to learn about the English settlement with a mysterious past or take a self-guided tour of the wineries, breweries, distilleries, and meaderies that make up the Williamsburg Tasting Trail .

A quintessential summer must-do: On a hot day, locals flock to Water Country USA , the state’s largest water park and an offshoot of Busch Gardens Williamsburg .

The underrated pick: A candle-lit Haunted Williamsburg tour takes you inside several 18th-century buildings to hear spooky tales.

Savannah, GA

Savannah has a subtropical climate, which is to say the summers are hot and humid. Still, when you need a respite from the heat, it’s easy to find: under the city’s famous moss-draped oak trees, on a riverboat cruise , or in one of the air-conditioned museums. The American Prohibition Museum details Savannah’s history as the “Bootleg Spigot of the South” while the Pin Point Heritage Museum , housed in a former oyster and crab factory, explores Gullah/Geechee culture. Just outside the city, Tybee Island beckons with a top-notch beach , a town-wide water gun fight at the annual Tybee Beach Bum Parade , and Little Tybee Island , an often-overlooked, uninhabited nature preserve only reachable by boat.

A quintessential summer must-do: Order a scoop (or two) at Leopold’s Ice Cream , an old-fashioned soda fountain that opened in 1919.

The underrated pick: The luxe Lucas Theatre was the city’s first air-conditioned public building. Today, it periodically screens summer blockbusters, like Jaws and Dirty Dancing . Stop by on Wednesdays for a free tour and demonstration of its Wurlitzer organ.

Charleston, SC

Charleston is known for its southern charm and pastel architecture, but also its distinct Lowcountry cuisine. Many of the city’s best chefs are focused on hyper-local ingredients that abound in the warmer months. James Beard Award–Winners FIG and Husk deserve every bit of praise, but relative newcomers like Tempest are worth checking out, too. For a classic Lowcountry boil, go to Bowen’s Island .

When you’re not chowing down, take part in the renowned summer Spoleto Festival , Sweetgrass Festival , or Charleston Carifest . The latter is a colorful, three-day event in June that reflects early settlers’ ties to Barbados. Expect lots of dancing to soca and reggae, a carnival parade, and even more food.

A quintessential summer must-do: Sail through Charleston Harbor and past historic Fort Sumter on The Schooner Pride , a tall ship modeled after 18th-century trading vessels. Book well in advance for the full-moon tour.

The underrated pick: On select Saturday evenings, boogie with the locals on Mount Pleasant Pier as part of the Dancing on the Cooper summer series.

Newport, RI

During the Gilded Age, Newport was the summertime playground of the country’s wealthiest elite, including the Vanderbilt family. Take a peek inside their former home, The Breakers , now a National Historic Landmark, before admiring other notable mansions along the scenic 3.5-mile Cliff Walk . The Marble House hosts The Newport Flower Show in June and several estates double as venues for The Newport Classical Music Festival in July. Also in July: the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in nearby Bristol and a same-day, 21-gun salute by the Artillery Company of Newport that uses cannons cast by Paul Revere. Rounding out the social calendar is the legendary Newport Jazz Festival , now in its 70th year.

A quintessential summer must-do: Vie for an Adirondack chair on The Lawn at the Castle Hill Inn and breathe in the salty air, gin and tonic in hand.

The underrated pick: Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame and play a round on the same courts where the US Open got its start.

Minneapolis

Embrace lake life in Minneapolis , where a chain of 22 urban lakes—including ​​ Bde Maka Ska , Lake Harriet , and Lake of the Isles —make it easy to get out on the water. Or, cycle along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway , which connecting 50-plus miles of bike paths around the city. Brake for sites like Minnehaha Falls and the downtown riverfront, home to the Mill City Museum and Stone Arch Bridge . The latter is the inspiration for the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, a long-standing event in June that features a juried art show, food trucks, and a classic car show. Another must is the Minnesota State Fair , held in late August just over the river in Minneapolis’ twin city, St. Paul.

A quintessential summer must-do: The Mall of America takes mall hangouts to the next level with an indoor amusement park, go-kart race track,18-hole mini golf course, and more than 500 stores.

The underrated pick: Stretching over 11 acres, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the country. Don’t miss "Spoonbridge and Cherry," a 29-foot Pop Art–inspired fountain.

Memphis, TN

If live music is what you’re after, look no further than the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. In addition to the usual bars and buskers on Beale Street , Memphis has a summer lineup that includes the Riverbeat Music Festival and Beale Street Music Festival in May and the Memphis Botanic Garden ’s ongoing Live at the Garden series (past headliners include Lady A, Train, and Matchbox Twenty). For a dose of nostalgia, the Orion Free Concert Series is hard to beat. Dating back to 1936, it’s one of the only Depression-era bandshells still in use today and also where Elvis made his debut. Speaking of The King, fans from all over the world gather at Graceland for Elvis Week in August.

When the mercury climbs, several acclaimed museums offer a reprieve. The National Civil Rights Museum is powerful with more than 250 artifacts, films, oral histories, and interactive exhibits, while the nearby Blues Hall of Fame Museum and Stax Museum of American Soul Music are musts for music lovers.

A quintessential summer must-do: Mosey down the mighty Mississippi River on a paddle wheeler. Memphis Riverboats has several tours, including a Sunday blues brunch.

The underrated pick: Covering 4,500 acres, Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Try out the treetop adventure course, take the kids to the expansive “sprayground” splash pad, or rent a boat and explore Hyde Lake.

Anaheim, CA

Even if you’ve been to Disneyland , it’s worth visiting again for summer events like Pixar Fest and Disneyland After Dark–themed nights . Both Disneyland and nearby Universal Studios Hollywood do spectacular Fourth of July fireworks shows, set to patriotic tunes. And in 2024, Knott’s Berry Farm opens a reimagined Camp Snoopy inspired by the classic Peanuts column and California’s High Sierra. Warm-weather havens like the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are also only an hour away.

A quintessential summer must-do: Dine al fresco at the Anaheim Packing District , a buzzy food hall inside a restored citrus packing plant.

The underrated pick: The Oak Canyon Nature Center consists of three adjoining canyons in the Santa Ana foothills. Bring a flashlight and join naturalists for a guided nighttime hike on the third Saturday of the month.

Set in the heart of the enchanting Black Hills, Custer is more than a stopover on the way to Mount Rushmore . In the summer months, it's a gateway to outdoor adventures. Go underground and explore Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park , or take in granite peaks, rolling grasslands, and a herd of more than 1,400 free-roaming bison at Custer State Park . Crazy Horse Memorial —the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving—is impressive from any vantage point, but Volksmarch , a 10K walk in June, allows you to get up close for a nominal fee.

A quintessential summer must-do: Every year in July, the town turns out for Gold Discovery Days , featuring a carnival, cornhole tournament, and hot air balloon rally.

The underrated pick: A semi-finalist for a James Beard Award, Skoken Kitchen serves up delicacies like morel mushrooms and buffalo short ribs.

The best way to experience a Boston summer? Go for a walk. Nicknamed “America’s Walking City,” there’s no shortage of beautiful (or informative) strolls. Admire the architecture of Beacon Hill ; seek out the former haunts of literary giants such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau; or make your way along The Freedom Trail , which connects historic sites like Faneuil Hall and The Paul Revere House . In the summer, NPS rangers also lead free guided tours along The Black Heritage Trail . If you prefer to get your steps in with a cannoli in hand, don’t miss the North End Feasts, which tap into Boston’s Italian heritage and honor a different saint or martyr with parades and street food.

A quintessential summer must-do: Root for the home team at Fenway Park , the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Guided history tours are offered daily, but if you’re in town on game day book the Pregame Tour for a special behind-the-scenes look at the action.

The underrated pick: The greater Boston area boasts more than 25 farmers’ markets, including Haymarket , one of the oldest open-air markets in the country.

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is home to roughly 100 courses (most of them public), including the acclaimed Caledonia Golf & Fish Club , the tricky Tidewater Golf Club , and the King’s North course at Myrtle Beach National , designed by Arnold Palmer. For a little friendly competition, sign up for the long-standing Father & Son Team Classic , part of Family Golf Week in July. Earlier in the month, locals celebrate Independence Day with decorated floats that actually float at the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade (set up along the MarshWalk for great views) and The Salute From the Shore flyover featuring vintage aircraft.

A quintessential summer must-do: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade is a must for old-school arcades, thrill rides, and the SkyWheel , a 20-story Ferris wheel with private, climate-controlled gondolas and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The underrated pick: Rent a fishing pole from the Second Avenue Pier tackle shop and cast a line for flounder, mackerel, and barracuda.

Boise, Idaho

Surrounded by mountains and the Sawtooth Wilderness, the Treasure Valley has some real hidden gems. Cycle along the Boise River Greenbelt and stop to watch surfers in wetsuits take on “The Wave” at the Boise Whitewater Park . Learn about the area’s thriving Basque community at the Basque Museum & Cultural Center . Or if you’re in town in July, attend the San Inazio Festival, which honors the patron saint of the Basques with dancers in traditional garb, pala games (similar to racquetball), and all the pintxos you can eat. For an extra special treat, time your visit to Jaialdi, the world’s largest celebration of Basque culture that happens every five years.

A quintessential summer must-do: The melodies of songbirds mix with Shakespeare’s sonnets in a bucolic setting at the multi-month Idaho Shakespeare Festival .

The underrated pick: Travel back in time and see a flick under the stars at the Terrace Drive-In Movie Theater , located 30 minutes away in Caldwell, Idaho.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 26 Best Places to Travel This Summer

Adventures in Banff? Serenity in Ojai? Châteaux of the Loire? We've got you covered.

So what will it be this year? Will you be spending three months flitting between seaside hotspots along the Mediterranean? Or will it be a European cultural grand tour? Maybe you'll revisit classic American destinations for old time's sake, or journey to the farthest reaches of Earth? From adventures in Jackson Hole and Banff, to wellness in Ojai and on Ischia, to the ultimate geo-tag brags of Fiji and the Galapagos, a T&C -curated guide, below, to 25 of the best destinations to consider for summer 2023.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is a year-round playground for the rich and adventurous, but come summer, the list of things to do expands exponentially. Proximity to two national parks—Grand Teton and Yellowstone—means plenty of warm weather activities like hiking, paddle-boarding, kayaking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, wildlife tours, biking, fishing, camping, you get the idea. Plus, the spectacular mountain scenery and perfect summer temperatures really can't be beat. Stay at the Amangani , whose in-house naturalists will lead private tours through the national parks.

Athens & Mykonos, Greece

Summer in Greece really needs no further explanation. There are so many places to visit, from the ancient wonders of Athens to the islands dotting the Aegean and Ionian Seas. For plush digs in the country's capital, book a room at the year-old xenodocheio Milos , the city's first-ever luxury boutique hotel, located near upscale Kolonaki. As for seaside havens, the Kalesma Mykonos is a paragon of serenity and zen on an island famous for its thumping party scene. A sleek design aesthetic also differentiates this 27-key hotel (12 suites, 13 villas, two grand villas) from its peers. Think Rick Owens furniture in the lobby, custom artwork in each room, and horsehair sconces in a nod to the Greek god Apollo, who was said to have kept his horses in the area. Oh, and best of all, 360-degree views.

Read Reviews Kalesma Mykonos

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

With pleasant spring-like temperatures pretty much all year long, there really is no bad time to visit this charming, historic town. While summer is technically its rainy season, here's the silver lining: arid hills bloom into a rainbow panoply of wildflowers. Make the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende home base from which to explore the colorful UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel's 67 rooms and suites are a study in hacienda chic, with wood-beam ceilings, hand-carved artisan furniture, spacious terraces, and a palette of warm tones. With six restaurants, clay tennis courts, a spa, and activities from movie nights to lavender workshops, you'll find plenty to do.

Read Reviews Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

Mallorca, Spain

Ancient honey-hued stone cottages, fragrant olive trees, the cobalt blue of the Mediterranean. The charms of Mallorca, crown jewel of Spain's Balearic Islands, are innumerable. So are the picturesque villages to discover, from Valldemossa, where composer Frédéric Chopin famously found refuge, to artsy Deià, which helped British author Robert Graves escape the psychological ravages of World War I, to polished Palma, where the Spanish royal family has their summer residence. For your very own Mallorcan idyll, head to La Residencia , a Belmond Hotel snugly nestled between mountain and sea in Deià. In keeping with the town's creative spirit, the property features eccentric design touches throughout, plus more than 800 works by local artists. The activities list is equally inspired: art and sculpture classes are on offer, including the option to paint by the sea under morning's dreamy light.

More: T&C Travel Guide: Mallorca

Read Reviews La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel

Banff National Park, Canada

Stunning turquoise lakes fed by glaciers. Grand, snow-capped Rocky Mountains. Blankets of emerald-hued pine forests. Canada's oldest national park certain doesn't disappoint—it's a constant feast for the eyes (not to mention for mind, body, and soul). As far as lodging goes, the Fairmont Banff Springs , a 757-room Châteauesque grande dame that dates back to 1888, is in the center of all the action (and in the charming town of Banff) and near the main attractions, like Lake Moraine and Lake Louise, and the Upper Hot Springs. As for activity and sport, the list is endless: think horseback riding, tons of hiking, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, a Via Ferrata, ATV tours, and visiting the Columbia Icefield. For those who want to hit the links, the Fairmont has an 18-hole championship golf course—just imagine the views.

Read Reviews Fairmont Banff Springs

Montecito, California

Maybe leave the kids at home for this one. Arguably the most romantic hotel on the west coast, the 130-year-old San Ysidro Ranch has quite a storied history—Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier were married here, while Jackie and John F. Kennedy honeymooned at the resort. Just 38 standalone cottages—decorated with antiques and appointed with stone fireplaces, outdoor rain showers, deep soaking tubs, and private decks—are sprawled out over 500 acres of lush gardens and hiking trails lined with lavender, jasmine, orange blossoms, and eucalyptus. Need we say more?

Read Reviews San Ysidro Ranch

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

It's not hard to see why A-listers from Clark Gable to Taylor Swift have found refuge in Watch Hill. And for a classic New England vacation, the answer is always Ocean House . The grand hotel, constructed after the Civil War, epitomizes a bygone era when "summer" was popularized as a verb by members of the one percent. But that's not to say that this hotel is dated. The 154-year-old Ocean House masterfully toggles the line between respecting history and embracing modern comforts—all the windows are in their original position, for example, but the rooms have been whittled down from 159 to a much more spacious 67. Then add in 13 acres of prime oceanfront landscape, plus a private beach, tennis courts, a croquet lawn, and a shuffleboard court.

Read Reviews Ocean House

Zurich, Switzerland

Basel may be considered the art mecca of Switzerland but don't sleep on Zurich. After all, this is where the Dada movement was born. The city is brimming with more than 50 museums, more than 1,300 public installations by the likes of Augusto Giacometti and Niki de Saint Phalle, and hundreds of galleries, which annually host tours, events, lectures, and studio visits during the 3-day festival known as Zurich Art Weekend in June. What's more, British architect David Chipperfield recently completed an extension of the Kunsthaus, making it the largest art museum in Switzerland. The city is also the home of Pavillon Le Corbusier, the iconic architect's last finished work and now a museum dedicated to him. Even the hotels have architectural bragging rights: not too long ago La Réserve Eden au Lac underwent a restoration by Philippe Starck.

Read Reviews La Réserve Eden au Lac

Ojai, California

Ojai is famous for its New Age, woo woo vibes—and what's wrong with a heaping dose of positive energy (delivered via its seven spiritual vortexes)? A few years ago the Ojai Valley Inn completed a renovation of its renowned, award-winning Spa Ojai, upgrading all treatment rooms, public spaces, and even the two 1,500-square-foot penthouse suites. There are ample opportunities to continue the wellness journey elsewhere on the hotel's 200-acre property. The vast activities and classes list includes aromatherapy oil blending, beekeeping, spiritual counseling, crystal healing, and floral design. Or you could just laze about in one of the hotel's four pools all afternoon, then enjoy an alfresco dinner while admiring Ojai's iconic pink sunsets.

Read Reviews Ojai Valley Inn

Ischia, Italy

Skip uber-touristy Amalfi Coast for dreamy Ischia, an island that has long attracted a certain set of in-the-know jetsetters in search of peace, healing, and true barefoot luxury—Truman Capote chose the town of Forio for his self-imposed exile in the '50s, while Ischia provided the backdrop for scenes of la dolce vita in The Talented Mr. Ripley . Thanks to an abundance of natural thermal springs, a holiday here can be that perfect blend of wellness and Italian indulgence. Stay at the Mezzatore , a 16th-century terra-cotta jewel perched on the edge of the Gulf of Naples. The historic property began its life as a watchtower before seducing the Italian elite, including the legendary director Luchino Visconti, who owned a villa, La Colombaia, on the grounds. Along with sea views in most of its 56 rooms and restaurants that emphasize the freshest daily catch, its spa pools are fed by its own springs. Be sure to double up your daily soak with a treatment—the spa uses products by Santa Maria Novella and Biologique Recherche.

Read Reviews Mezzatore Hotel & Thermal Spa

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Sure, the Caribbean might be really hot this time of year, but does that really matter when you've got pools, beaches, bottomless rum cocktails, a languorous island pace, and fewer crowds? With 27 villas plus 36 rooms designed by Ralph Lauren, Round Hill makes for a chic and blissfully relaxing getaway. Spend your days swimming in the sea, bobbing in the infinity pool, sipping cocktails on the beach, luxuriating in a spa treatment or two, and indulging in delicious Jamaican cuisine. Want to incorporate a little activity? You can take a kayak out on the water, play tennis, or even partake in pickleball —in keeping with the trends of the one percent, the hotel created two new courts for the sport.

Read Reviews Round Hill Hotel & Villas

Mount Desert Island, Maine

Since the Gilded Age, this beautiful coastal region has provided refuge and respite for generations of American gentry. It's not hard to see the appeal: a slow and laidback pace of life, nature all around, heaps of fresh lobster to be enjoyed ad infinitum, and, of course, Acadia National Park, established in 1916 thanks in part to land donated by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. (who also financed the construction of an extensive network of carriage roads throughout). For the intrepid, a hike up Cadillac Mountain just before dawn is bucket list-worthy—it's the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. And for a taste of how the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Astors used to holiday, book a room at the Claremont in Southwest Harbor. The property dates back to 1884 but worry not: a 2021 gut renovation gave it a modern refresh, complete with Very T&C design touches like Sister Parish wallpaper, Pierre Frey furnishings, and Frette linens.

Read Reviews The Claremont Hotel

Paris, France

Paris is always a good idea, especially in the summer when daylight seems to stretch on forever and temperatures are generally delightful. Plus, this is a city made for alfresco revelry: think picnicking along the Seine, brushing up on your French lit in one of its many pristine parks, people watching from sidewalk cafes, treasure hunting at the Marché aux Puces fleas. As for where to stay, you'll be spoiled for choice with all the magnificent grande dames in town. One of the latest to join the club: Cheval Blanc Paris , which opened last year in a historic Art Deco palace right on the river. Its location and views are phenomenal, but the biggest draw of the place might be that its parent company LVMH also revived OG department store La Samaritaine, on whose hallowed ground the hotel is located—because shopping in Paris, as everyone knows, is an obligatory sport, no matter the season.

More: The New Cheval Blanc Paris Finally Opens

Read Reviews Cheval Blanc Paris

Loire Valley, France

France's most popular summertime playground is obviously the Côte d'Azur, but the countryside is just as—if not more—alluring. Take the Loire Valley: under 3 hours from Paris yet seemingly worlds away, sprinkled with more than 300 historic châteaux built as far back as the 9th century and through the Renaissance, when artists, including Da Vinci, were commissioned to design these splendid residences for the French monarchy. Castles can certainly fill up an itinerary—don't miss Chambord, the largest, and Chenonceau (pictured), which was once owned by Catherine de' Medici–but that's not all this UNESCO-listed region has to offer. The valley is also the home of Sancerre, which is as indispensable to a French summer as rosé is to an American one. And where will you stay? In a place with royal roots, naturally. The 55-key Fleur de Loire , which opened last summer, is in a property that was once owned by King Louis XIII's brother. Expect several princely amenities, like a restaurant helmed by 2-Michelin-starred chef Christophe Hay, a Sisley spa, and wonderful gardens.

Read Reviews Fleur de Loire

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Galapagos enthusiasts are generally split into two camps when it comes to how best to experience the area's wildlife-strewn marvels—by sea or by land? For those in the former group, there is good news. Last May marked the inaugural expedition of the Aqua Mare , Aqua Expeditions' sleek teak- and mahogany-lined superyacht built specifically for the archipelago. There are just seven spacious suites on board, including an 861-square-foot Owner's Suite, plus a jacuzzi, movie room, library, BBQ area, and two naturalist guides. This may be about as close as you can get to cruising around the Galapagos like Logan Roy.

Hudson Valley, New York

For New Yorkers who prefer the bucolic charms of country life over the sandy scene of the Hamptons, the Hudson Valley is the perfect destination. Its quaint little towns, antique shops, and farm stands are an easy—and best of all, sans traffic—drive away. The region is upping its luxury game, too, thanks to the new Wildflower Farms , an Auberge Resort. Sixty-five cozy cabins dot the 140-acre property, which, true to its name, brim with orchards, gardens, and wildflower-strewn meadows. And as is an Auberge signature, there is plenty to do, from miles of hiking trails to explore to a cooking school where you can learn the art of pickling, preserving, and even making your own floral focaccia.

Read Reviews Wildflower Farms, an Auberge Resort

Hvar, Croatia

It’s time to upgrade your thinking about an island vacation. This summer, the Croatian isle of Hvar is poised to be a destination for travelers looking for a bit of culture (the Hvar Summer Festival has been a landmark for art and music for more than 60 years), some gorgeous scenery (the Lavender Festival, based around the 14th-century town of Velo Grablje, takes place in mid-July), or some serious wine (harvest season kicks off in August, and the Viticultural Museum, which charts wine culture on Hvar back to the 4th Century B.C., has been recently renovated). And, of course, there’s also the chance to just unwind. World-class hotels like the Palace Elisabeth —named for everyone’s favorite Austrian Empress —offer spa treatments and seaside dining, and the nearby Pakleni Islands, a destination for sunbathers and history buffs alike, are a short boat ride away.

Read Reviews Palace Elisabeth, Hvar Heritage Hotel

Vancouver Island, Canada

For glamping with a side of Canadian hospitality, head over to the 25-tent Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge on the edge of Clayoquot Sound, a pristine UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve nestled in the wilds of Vancouver Island. The Canadian Pacific Coast's "Big 5"—whales, bears, bald eagles, sea lions, and sea otters—are the star sightings here, with summer being especially promising for witnessing orcas, gray whales, and humpbacks. But even if you miss these colossal mammals, there are plenty nature pursuits to keep you entertained: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, swimming in hidden glacier-fed watering holes, fly fishing in remote spots accessed only by helicopter, the list goes on.

Read Reviews Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

Sicily, Italy

According to Greek mythology, the deadly serpentine giant Typhon is said to be buried under Mount Etna, banished there after losing an epic battle with Zeus. Perhaps this is why Etna is one of the world's most active volcanos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a nourishing presence, its fertile soils making Sicily a verdant oasis for lemons and oranges, olives and honey, grapes and wine. Plus, it sets the tone for an Italian holiday that has it all: amazing food, ancient history, plenty of mountain-to-sea nature. As for where to stay, the Four Seasons's San Domenico Palace is an excellent Hollywood-worthy choice—surely you've seen The White Lotus ? — though the Mediterranean's largest island has many options. Villa Sant’Andrea , a Belmond Hotel set in a secluded bay in Taormina is a good base for activities like catching a show at the ancient Greek theater, or sailing to Aci Trezza to meet members of the Rodolico family, who have been building handcrafted boats since 1908.

More: The White Lotus -Inspired Travel Guide to Sicily

Read Reviews San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel

Read Reviews Villa Sant'Andrea, a Belmond Hotel

With its silky soft beaches and crystal clear waters, Anguilla, a perennial T&C favorite, is the utmost in barefoot luxury. All this and more can be found at the Belmond Cap Juluca , well-situated in a secluded spot in Maundays Bay with 66 spacious, terrace-equipped rooms, 42 suites, an infinity pool, and much to do, from snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving, and exploring uninhabited islands, to croquet, volleyball, tennis, and golf. And it's all easier to get to: American Airlines now has direct routes to the island from Miami.

Read Reviews Belmond Cap Juluca

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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14 of the best places to go in the USA for a summer vacation

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

From the beaches of San Diego to the cobbled streets of Boston, here are the best places to visit in the US in summer © Sebastien Burel / Shutterstock

With summer just around the corner in the USA , you’re likely already dreaming of where to spend your vacation. 

And you won’t be alone. The months of June to August form the US’s busiest travel season. The warm days mean events such as music and food festivals are in full swing,  national parks  are fully open for the season, and there are more opportunities for outdoor activities. Kids are out of school, and you could face big crowds and higher prices wherever you go.

Whether you want to see some of the most incredible and well-known places or you're aiming to get a bit off the beaten path, here is our guide to where to go for a summer vacation in the United States.

1. The Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawai’i (most often referred to as “the Big Island”) is the largest of the state ’s chain of islands, and it’s full of scenic beauty, miles of volcanic rock formations, breathtaking peaks and valleys, waterfalls, trails and rugged beaches (including the Papakōlea green-sand beach ). With eight of the world’s 13 climate zones, the island of Hawai’i is ecologically diverse to an astounding degree, with thousands of unique species of plants and animals.

A car is a must with so much to see, but the roads are rarely crowded (save for rush-hour traffic around Kona and Hilo ). Dive with manta rays in Captain Cook, ride horses in Waimea , stargaze near the summit of Mauna Kea , swim at Mahaiʻula Beach and most definitely take a hike in stunning  Volcanoes National Park . Better yet, plan to shack up at the historic Volcano House inside the park, where Mark Twain once stayed. Start the day by sipping a hot cup of Kona coffee at 4000ft and wrap it up with a sunset mai tai aboard a catamaran, followed by a delicious dinner at Moon and Turtle in Hilo.

Want to see more of Hawaii? Here are the top places to go

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

From either Mackinaw City or St Ignace, you can catch a ferry to Mackinac Island, Michigan . The island’s location in the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron made it a prized port in the North American fur trade, and a site the British and Americans battled over many times. The most important date on this 3.8-sq-mile island was 1898 – the year cars were banned in order to encourage tourism. Today, all travel is by horse or bicycle; even the police use bikes to patrol the town. Eighty percent of Mackinac Island is state parkland.

The crowds of tourists – called Fudgies by the islanders – can be crushing at times, particularly during summer weekends. But when the last ferry leaves in the evening and clears out the day-trippers, Mackinac’s real charm emerges as you drift back into another, slower era.

Explore more of Michigan in these top places to visit

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

Few places on earth are as magnificent and pristine as Glacier National Park . Protected in 1910 during the first flowering of the American conservationist movement, Glacier ranks with Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon among the United States’ most astounding natural wonders. The glacially carved remnants of an ancient thrust fault left a brilliant landscape of towering snowcapped pinnacles laced with plunging waterfalls and glassy turquoise lakes. The mountains are surrounded by dense forests, which host a virtually intact pre-Columbian ecosystem. Grizzly bears still roam in abundance, and smart park management has kept the place accessible and authentically wild.

Planning tips:  Although the park remains open year-round, most services are closed between October and mid-May, making a summer visit the best, if not only, time to get the park’s full offering. Going-to-the-Sun Rd , which crosses Glacier National Park, opens when crews finish plowing the snow, which could be as late as July.

Keep exploring Montana with these top experiences throughout the state

4. Lewes, Delaware 

This tiny, darling dot on the coast is known as the “First Town in the First State ” and is a must-visit come summer. The main attraction in Lewes is its gorgeous, wheelchair-accessible beach, part of the 5000-acre Cape Henlopen State Park  – which also contains a nature reserve with excellent programming (bird walk, anyone?). But the entire town will draw you with its historic Victorian homes, some dating from the 1700s, treasure-filled antique shops and beachy boutiques, multiple restaurants and the not-to-be-missed King’s Homemade Ice Cream .

View remnants of the War of 1812 and other relics at Cannonball House, part of the 90-minute Lewes Legends Walking Tour , which brings local history to life every Wednesday evening. Explore the Saturday morning Historic Lewes farmers market, then make your way to Eggcelent for a divine breakfast spread. Take a seat at an outdoor table at The Station on Kings , a knock-out cafe, restaurant and home and garden store that begs to be photographed, as does the adjacent Marigold Creamery ice cream truck. Reserve at table at Heirloom or pop into Striper Bites for a scrumptious dinner and drinks. Be sure to get out on the water, too: we love Cape Water Tours “Dolphin Watch” cruise.

5. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is the wild, free-flowing, beating heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Its real showstoppers are the geysers and hot springs – nature’s crowd-pleasers – yet at every turn, this land of fire and brimstone breathes, belches and bubbles like a giant kettle on the boil. The park’s highways traverse these geysers, through meadows and forests, past roadside herds of bison and campsites aromatic with pine needles and family campfires. In between lies the country’s largest collection of elk, the continent’s oldest and largest wild bison herds, and a pristine wilderness roamed by wolves, grizzlies, moose and antelope.

Planning tips:  June to August is the busiest time to visit Yellowstone (when more than half of the park's visitors arrive), perhaps because it’s the time of year when the full range of visitor services, accommodations and entrances to the park is open. Hotel rates peak at gateway towns, park campgrounds fill by lunchtime – and reservations are essential.

Want more great adventures? Here are our top picks in Yelloswtone National Park

6. Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina ’s Outer Banks are fragile ribbons of sand tracing the Atlantic coastline for more than 100 miles, separated from the mainland by sounds and waterways. Broken up by villages, the ribbon of Cape Hatteras National Seashore  is home to several noteworthy lighthouses. A meandering drive down Hwy 12, which connects much of the Outer Banks and makes up part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway (and its 21 coastal villages), is one of the truly great American road trips.

The quaint waterfront area of Manteo is a pleasant base from which to explore the Outer Banks. Near the harbor is the Roanoke Island Festival Park , where visitors can learn about the first English colonies on North American soil. In summer, be sure to catch an atmospheric amphitheater performance by Lost Colony Outdoor Drama , which portrays the story of the colonists who arrived in Manteo in the 1580s (before the European settlers arrived at Plymouth Rock) – and then disappeared.

Looking for more road trip inspiration? Here's our guide to the best driving routes in the US

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston ’s history recalls revolution and transformation, and today, the city is still among the country’s most forward-thinking and barrier-breaking cities. For all intents and purposes, Boston is the oldest city in the US, and you can hardly walk a step over its cobblestone streets without running into some historic site. Yet Boston has not been relegated to the past. A history of cultural patronage means that the city’s art and music scenes continue to charm and challenge contemporary audiences. Cutting-edge urban-planning projects are reshaping the city even now, as neighborhoods are revived and reinvigorated. Historic universities and colleges still attract scientists, philosophers and writers, who shape the city’s evolving culture.

Planning tips:  Although summers in Boston are hot and humid, the city is noticeably quieter when students have vacated and Bostonians head to their summer homes. When you need to beat the heat, join them at the irresistible North Shore beaches nearby.

Plan ahead with our guide to  Boston's top experiences

8. San Diego, California

San Diego calls itself “America’s Finest City” – which embodies the breezy confidence and sunny cheer that filters down here even to folks you encounter every day on the street. The city may feel like a collection of villages, each with its own personality, yet San Diego is the nation’s eighth-largest city. And even with its huge size, there’s probably nowhere more laid-back on earth.

What’s not to love? San Diego bursts with world-famous attractions for the entire family, including the zoo and the museums of Balboa Park. And that’s not to mention the excellent seafood, a buzzing downtown and beautiful hikes for all, plus more than 60 beaches and perhaps the USA’s most perfect weather.

Traveling to the USA with kids? Here's our guide to visiting as a family

9. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of the world’s most famous mountain destinations, but that doesn’t mean it’s just for winter skiing. Aspen takes on new shades and personalities with the seasons . In fall, the hills are set afire with the quaking of a million golden aspen leaves. In winter, the slopes come to life, and the party hits maximum velocity. Come springtime, the flowers start to bud near the mirrored alpine lakes. And finally, in summer – ah, summer in Aspen! – everything comes together, with music festivals, arts, miles upon miles of trails to explore and perfect days under the bluebird-hued Colorado sky.

There are excellent restaurants at nearly every corner of the historic downtown area. Top it off with an understated chic that permeates nearly everything you do, eat, see and experience here, and you have the makings of maybe the best mountain vacation ever.

Love a scenic hike?   These are Colorado's best

10. Chicago, Illinois

Steely skyscrapers, top chefs, rocking festivals: the Windy City will blow you away with its low-key, cultured awesomeness. It’s hard to know what to gawk at first in Chicago . High-flying architecture is everywhere, from the stratospheric, glass-floored Willis Tower to Frank Gehry’s swooping silver Pritzker Pavilion to Frank Lloyd Wright’s stained-glass-filled  Robie House . Whimsical public art studs the streets; you might be walking along and...wham, there’s an abstract Picasso statue that’s not only cool to look at, but climbable, too. For art museums, take your pick: Impressionist masterpieces at the massive Art Institute of Chicago , psychedelic paintings at the midsize  National Museum of Mexican Art or outsider drawings at the small Intuit gallery .

Planning tips:  Chicago’s peak visitor season is June through August. Summertime festivals rock Chicago’s neighborhoods almost every weekend, and  Millennium Park plays hosts to many concerts downtown. Fireflies glow everywhere. It can be hot and humid, but who cares?

Whatever your vacation vibe, here's what you should do on a trip to Chicago

11. Portland, Oregon

Best-in-class coffee. The most food carts. Top craft breweries. The world-famous quirkiness. Portland is a city of indie-spirited superlatives and humble, offbeat charms. Portland has an almost unfair abundance of natural beauty: perfect parks, leafy trees, vibrantly flowering shrubs lining pretty residential streets, the Willamette River meandering through town and Mt Hood on the horizon. Summer in Portland sees festivals galore, including the Portland Rose Festival . Long-awaited wildflowers reach their peak bloom in early summer.

Venture beyond Portland with the top places to visit in Oregon

12. Grand Canyon, Arizona

No matter how much you read about the Grand Canyon or how many photographs you’ve seen, nothing really prepares you for the sight of it: it’s so startlingly familiar and iconic and simply awe-inspiring, you can’t take your eyes off it. The canyon’s immensity, the sheer intensity of light and shadow at sunrise or sunset, even its very age, scream for superlatives. The Grand Canyon embodies the scale and splendor of the American West , through its dramatic vistas, dusty trails and stories of exploration, preservation and exploitation.

Planning tips:  Most visitors head to canyon’s South Rim  – yet the summer months are the best time to visit the North Rim , which is open only from mid-May to mid-October. The North Rim is Grand Canyon plus. Here, the elevation is a little higher, the temperatures are a little cooler, the trails are a little steeper, and the views… yeah, they’re a little bigger. Since this side gets more rain and snow, erosion has chewed deeper into the North Rim, creating mazes of side canyons while leaving sky islands and temples towering above the Colorado River.

Discover the most beautiful parts of Grand Canyon National Park on these scenic hikes

13. South Walton, Florida

Sandwiched between Destin and Panama City along Scenic Highway 30A in the Florida Panhandle are 16 unincorporated communities collectively known as South Walton. Each town has its own identity, most master-planned resort towns with architecture following set themes. If you only make two stops, we recommend delightful Grayton Beach , which feels as though it was settled by old-school hippies who came into money (stay a night here if you can) and the meticulously manicured village of Seaside, which is so well-planned they filmed The Truman Show here. Other points of interest include the whimsically named community of WaterColor, Moroccan-themed Alys Beach and the Dutch-inspired hamlet of Rosemary Beach.

Explore more of Highway 30A in our first-timer's guide

14. The Ozarks, Missouri

Even though flashy Branson receives the lion’s share of tourists (nowhere in the USA will you find more family-friendly entertainment, with huge hokey musicals in abundance), hiking and river floating are the two best reasons to visit the Ozarks . Indeed, beyond Branson, nature rules in this mountain range, which straddles Missouri , Arkansas and Oklahoma . 

The Ozarks’ true charms can be found in its rolling hills and deep clefts, where wild spring-fed rivers carry legions of happy people floating downstream. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways – the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers – boast 134 miles of splendid canoeing and inner-tubing. Back on land, you never know when you’ll stumble onto another tiny village seemingly conjured up on a Hollywood back lot.

Make the most of your trip to the Ozarks with  the top things to do

This article was first published Apr 20, 2018 and updated May 3, 2024.

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27 Best Places To Visit In Summer In The USA (2024 Vacation Ideas For Everyone)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

The US is a great place to be when summer hits. You’ve got the hiking trails in national parks like Acadia National Park and Rocky Mountains National Park. There are the west coast beaches and major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. And that’s all without considering the delicious cuisine of New Orleans and the historic East Coast, with New York and Washington DC. Wherever you go in the US this summer, you will find a slightly different personality in each region.

Table of Contents

Best Summer Vacations in the USA

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best summer vacations in the USA. A summer vacation is often a highlight of your year. It’s the chance to explore a new national park, city, or road trip. Summer is about building memories and making new connections, enjoying the sunshine that has spread across most of the USA. Sure, these places might be busier in summer, but seeing them in their full glory makes the extra crowds worth dealing with.

There’s so much to do in the USA in summer; these top 27 places will help you create memories of a lifetime. With any of these amazing spots, you’ll have the ‘best summer ever.’

1. New York City

People rave about visiting New York in the fall and winter when the city comes to life with Christmas markets and festivity. But when it comes to the ‘city that never sleeps’, you best believe it makes full use of all those extra daylight hours. New York is one of the most fun, activity-stuffed summer vacations. As a summer getaway, New York City has so much to offer. It has pop-up events like movie screenings in Bryant Park, and even things like visiting rooftop bars become more pleasant, with longer evenings and later sunsets.

New York is one of our favorite cities. We have endless resources you can scroll through, including a guide on the ultimate one-day itinerary and a guide on our all-time-favorite things to do. In summer, you should especially check out the city’s green spaces (Central Park becomes even more sought-after) as well as day-tripping to some of its nearby beaches.

New York is fantastic to visit in the summer months because of its late-night events, proximity to beaches, and spacious green spaces.

Insider Tip: Check out beaches like Coney Island and Brighton Beach.

Where to Stay: Here’s our thorough guide on where to stay in New York City , plus our favorite hotel, Park Hyatt New York.

2. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is California’s wine country. And while this beautiful area of more than 475 vineyards and countryside towns is gorgeous all year round, summer is special. The Napa harvest season runs from August to October, meaning if you visit in August to early September you’ll visit at the height of the action. With warmer weather, you’ll have long, hot afternoons to look forward to. It’s a heavenly time to visit and indulge in wine tasting with cheese and olives.

Many vineyards are within walking distance of Napa Valley’s main towns, including Rutherford, Napa, Yountville, and Oakville. You can also enjoy activities like hot air ballooning , more reliable flights in better weather, and romantic excursions like horseback riding.

Insider Tip: If you want to dodge the main crowds, visit at the back end of summer in September or October.

Where to Stay: The Estate Yountville.

3. Las Vegas

Bizarrely enough, summer is a quiet time for Las Vegas, which contradicts many of the other destinations we have highlighted. Most of the tourism is concentrated on the spring and fall seasons, with tourists avoiding the summer heat. As temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in summer months, you can see why it can put some people off.

However, if you’re selective in your sightseeing , there’s no reason you can’t enjoy Las Vegas as one of the best summer vacations in the USA. The lack of crowds is already a great start. Since much of Vegas is seen at night when temperatures are cooler, the city is actually well-suited to a summer vacation. You can enjoy attractions like the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum. And you can still take day trips to Death Valley National Park or Emerald Cave – just do so as early as possible in the morning to beat those crazy midday temperatures.

Las Vegas doesn’t follow a rule book, so why should you? Just shake up the norms around sightseeing times and book accommodation with aircon and a pool; you’ll love Vegas in summer, especially if you are a sun lover. And, if you feel like you can skip flying to Europe, seeing the Eiffel Tower in Vegas is a fabulous compromise.

Insider Tip: Keep outdoor sightseeing to the earliest hours you can manage.

Where to Stay: Here’s our thorough guide on Where to Stay in Las Vegas: Best Places and Areas and our favorite hotel is The Bellagio .

4. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is gorgeous in summer. We actually listed the national park as one of the best places to visit in spring with a small caveat: you are an experienced hiker and driver in icy conditions. Bryce Canyon National Park is slow to warm up, so if you’d prefer easy access, waiting until summer is ideal. It has plenty of shaded trails that experience long, crisp mornings even in the height of summer. And there’s even a free shuttle service in the summer season.

If you are looking for somewhere where you can enjoy hiking trails and dramatic Utah rock formations, Bryce Canyon National Park is our top recommendation. You can breeze through the easy Sunset Point Trail or tackle the classic, and more difficult, Navajo Loop.

Yes, Bryce Canyon is at its busiest in June, July, and August, but this is for good reason. You won’t be contending with ice and difficult accessibility. And if you are a solo hiker, these crowds can be preferable for safety in numbers. For the inexperienced and freshly solo, this national park wiggled its way onto our list as one of the best summer vacations. If you are in the area make sure to check out our guide to Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5 .

Insider Tip: Visit in September to October if you’d prefer fewer crowds.

Where to Stay: Brian Head Lodge .

5. Outer Banks

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a timeless place to spend a summer vacation. The Outer Banks are a collection of barrier islands that start by the North Carolina-Virginia border and stretch all the way down to Ocracoke Island. They extend over 175 miles and are full of gorgeous beaches with deep blue waters.

In summer, you’ll see Cape Hatteras National Seashore at its absolute best, and you can enjoy leisurely strolls to both Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island Lighthouses. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is also a haven for migratory and endangered birds. Keep your eyes peeled for warblers, sparrows, and waxwings if you’re lucky.

The Outer Banks are perfect for anyone who wants to experience beach-style summer vacations. It is also ideal for the more adventurous, especially those passionate about water-related activities and wildlife conservation. The Outer Banks are quiet and not overly developed, with just a few small towns along its length.

Insider Tip: Make sure to see the wild horses on the Outer Banks. You can take a guided tour or go it alone.

Where to Stay: Check out Island Motel OBX .

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains stretch between Tennessee and North Carolina and are a region of legendary wilderness. The mountains clocked their name for their trademark low-lying mist, which typically cloaks the forested ridges in the early morning. The national park is home to over 1,500 black bears and more than 200 varieties of birds. And that’s before you even begin to think about the over 4,000 different types of plant varieties. Regarding conservation and natural beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in a league of its own.

You can tackle sections of the Appalachian Trail and enjoy warmer temperatures by cooling off in swimming holes like the Wye and Sinks. Summer brings many water-related activities, from white water rafting through dense forests and shaded trails to hidden waterfalls like Laurel Falls. While if wildlife sightseeing is your main draw, driving Cades Cove Loop Road is a great bet, and bears and deer are most active in summer.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best summer vacations for nature lovers. The whole 500,000-plus acres spring into life in the summer, with wildlife more active and water activities more enjoyable.

Insider Tip: Drive Cades Cove Loop Road to spot black bears.

Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Apple Valley Lodge Pigeon Force.

Thanks to its scenic location along Lake Michigan, Chicago is a beautiful place to visit for a summer vacation. It has miles of sandy beaches along the lakefront and plentiful green spaces in the city, like Millenium Park. In warm weather, it’s one of the best summer vacation spots.

The city is rammed with things to do and tasty dishes to eat ; it’s famous for its Italian-influenced cuisine and killer pizzas, which you can enjoy al fresco in the sunshine. There’s also no better time to stroll the Chicago Riverwalk or take a boat tour. Chicago has a fast-paced personality, and if you don’t believe us, just check out the festivals coming up this summer.

Given its location on Lake Michigan, it would be a crime not to day trip to nearby towns and cities when staying in Chicago. Remember that Milwaukee has Summerfest , too. We love summers in Chicago because of its lakeside location and endless festivities.

Insider Tip: Make sure to snag tickets for Milwaukee’s Summerfest.

Where to Stay: Here’s our guide on where to stay . We’d particularly recommend Pendry Hotel.

8. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

History buffs, this is your time to shine. Colonial Williamsburg is the USA’s largest-ever outdoor living museum and whisks visitors back to the 18th century. The museum spans 301 acres, with two separate art museums, historic taverns, and exhibits. It’s set in a historic district within Williamsburg, and you can walk around for free. Williamsburg was one of America’s first-ever ‘planned cities’ by British colonialists, so it’s a momentous place to visit and comprehend this part of the USA’s history.

In summer, the action at Colonial Williamsburg is in full flow. You’ll see all the actors out engaging with visitors, and you’ll enjoy warmer weather to walk the streets. We’d advise against walking around in the midday heat. Still, you can plan the walking aspects for the early morning and then spend midday to early afternoon in indoor attractions, like the art museums. You can also tour Colonial Williamsburg after dark too, with haunted tours.

Colonial Williamsburg has a unique history to embrace this summer. You’ll love the experience; an outdoor museum is the perfect way to enjoy the sunshine.

Insider Tip: Plan your timings and itinerary around the hottest parts of the day, especially when visiting with children.

Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Kingsgate.

Boston is another option for history-loving summer vacation seekers. It is full of beautiful Victorian-style buildings and is brimming with Revolution history. Boston also sits on the East Coast, and it’s another place that gets off to a slow start when it comes to warming up in spring. The Atlantic breeze keeps temperatures reasonably low, meaning waiting until summer to catch Boston in warmer temperatures is best.

Boston is massively walkable if you stay downtown, so much so that it’s been nicknamed ‘America’s Walking City’. Chinatown, Beacon Hill, and Back Bay are all within easy walking distance of the city’s downtown region. And in summer, the warm weather makes Boston’s walkability even more appealing, so grab your comfiest walking shoes.

You can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities in summer , like kayaking the Charles River or strolling James P. Kelleher Rose Garden. There are also scenic trails around the waterfront and history-themed attractions like the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

For us, Boston’s walkability is partly what makes it such an entertaining city. And there’s no doubt that summer is the best time to go strolling and experience Boston’s history.

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to walk the Harvard campus.

Where to Stay: The Newbury Boston .

10. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

If you want the best summer in the great outdoors, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a beautiful choice for a summer vacation. The national forest is just outside of Salt Lake City in Utah and is an accessible choice for a summer trip combined with a city break. While previously the forest was a relatively unsung tourist destination, more and more people have clocked onto its beauty. It is a bit Banff-esque, with jutting peaks that keep their snow caps way into late spring and alpine lakes. And by summer, the wildlife is in full swing.

Little Deer Creek Falls is magnificent, as is the gorgeous Amethyst Lake. You can go horseback riding, cycling, or hiking. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest has dozens of hidden waterfalls and alpine lakes, with more challenging mountain peaks for the more experienced hikers and climbers. Mount Timpanogos via Timpooneke Trail is particularly stunning in summer.

We’d suggest fully embracing the wilderness with a camping vacation in the forest. It’s a brilliant time to safely access an area of extreme natural beauty.

Insider Tip: Late summer is typically best for dodging inevitable mosquitos.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Snowbird.

11. Galveston

Galveston is beautifully situated on the Gulf Coast of Texas, and if you aren’t sold on Texas as a summer destination, prepare for that to change. Galveston is an island city on a barrier island blessed with miles of beaches and the gorgeous Galveston Island State Park with bird watching and boardwalks. Galveston is where to go for bird watching, fresh seafood, and pristine beaches.

In summer, you can experience Galveston’s beaches at their best. You could even enter the AIA Sandcastle Competition, which has been running for over 35 years. Regarding bird watching, it’s also an excellent time for frigatebirds, scissor-tailed flycatchers, and painted buntings. Head out with some binoculars to Galveston Island State Park and work on your tan while spotting some of the USA’s prettiest summer birds.

Galveston is, without a doubt, a brilliant beach destination for summer vacations, and it has the added bonus of fantastic bird watching. It’s a popular Texas getaway for anyone in the know.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and long-lens cameras so you don’t miss out on smaller or distant birds.

Where to Stay: Virginia Point INN.

We cannot have a list of summer vacation spots and not feature Miami. Miami is a little bit ‘love it or hate it,’ but that’s all part of its spunky aesthetic. There’s nothing more classic than Miami’s South Beach, with its art deco beach infrastructure. And in summer, Miami is in full flow . You can enjoy all of its beach culture, surfing, and sunbathing. The weather is perfect for day-tripping to enjoy the nearby Key Biscayne and Biscayne National Park.

Now, it is a well-known fact that summer spells hurricane season. However, July is the odd one out here, as the driest month of the year. With heat and record dry days, it’s a popular time to visit Miami, and one we’d also recommend if you want to experience the city in its summertime glory.

Insider Tip: Sign up for hurricane and weather alerts.

Where to Stay: Here’s our guide on where to stay in Miami , plus our favorite Bentley Beach Club .

13. Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a fun resort city on the New Jersey shore. It initially sprang up in the 19th century as a health resort – somewhere to head to the coast in summer for fresh air and sea. Now, Atlantic City has hit its rebellious years and instead offers a hotbed of nightclubs and casinos. It’s where to book a summer vacation if you want party culture in a less-trodden spot. Think of a quieter, coastal Vegas.

In summer, you get the most out of Atlantic City’s location, with the gorgeous boardwalk and beach access . And when it gets to midday heat, you can dash into the cooling shade of the Central Pier Arcade or cool off at Island Waterpark.

Atlantic City got our vote for its fun, party atmosphere. Plus, it is less than 2.5 hours away from New York City by car and is pretty accessible.

Insider Tip: Visit the bizarre building, Lucy the Elephant.

Where to Stay: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

14. Lewes, Delaware

Lewes is tiny, a coastal blip on Delaware’s Atlantic coastline. It has a pretty big story behind it, though, as the site of the first European settlement in Delaware and a once-thriving Dutch trading post. The arrival of colonists was short-lived, though, when all settlers were killed in 1632. Despite its complex early days, the town offers far more than just colonial tales and maritime history. The town is surrounded by nature, including Cape Henlopen State Park and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.

The history of Lewes is best appreciated by walking the area and its surrounding nature, which is what scored it our vote as one of the best summer vacations. The warm weather helps you to spend more time outdoors and understand Lewes better. There are some cracking beaches nearby, too, like Savannah and Johnnie Walker Beach.

Insider Tip: Check out Lewes’ breweries.

Where to Stay: Home2Suites by Hilton Lewes Rehoboth Beach.

15. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is stunning. Situated right by the Canada border, separated from Vancouver Island only by the Salish Sea, Olympic National Park is famed for its old-growth rainforests. You can walk through the magic Hall of Mosses , which only stretches less than a mile but has drooping ferns and dramatically hanging green moss from gnarled trees. It’s like something out of a fairy tale.

In summer, you can enjoy camping and hiking in Olympic National Park with warmer temperatures and lesser rainfall on your side. And if you still want some element of summer beach vacation, it also has the nearby La Push beaches with the famous Hole-In-The-Wall.

Summer is the best time to experience Olympic National Park and embrace even more of its usual magic, with leaping salmon if you visit in September and more active wildlife across the season. It’s also warm enough to enjoy its beaches better.

Insider Tip: Take the ferry to Victoria from Port Angeles to sneak in a visit to Canada as well.

Where to Stay: Pacific Inn Motel.

16. Grand Teton National Park

Now, we will mention Yellowstone, but it would be totally amiss of us not to mention Grand Teton National Park as well. These two national parks are only a couple of hours apart. Yet, they both offer an entirely different experience and outdoor activities. Grand Teton National Park is glaciated rather than volcanic like Yellowstone.

Grand Teton is a fertile region of glaciated mountains with dramatic crags and sharp ridges from centuries-old ice shaping. Its pastures now feed thousands of moose, elk, and bison. In summer, tourists can drive the park’s scenic 42-mile loop and spot wildlife out their window. You can also easily enjoy water activities like kayaking on Jenny Lake and warm weather hikes.

Much of the park closes between late fall and spring, so summer is the best time to thoroughly access Grand Teton National Park. If you want ‘full access,’ we’d suggest visiting between June and early September.

Insider Tip: Extend your stay to combine both national parks in one visit.

Where to Stay: The Virginian Lodge.

17. Orlando

Orlando isn’t known for its breathtaking scenery in a natural sense. Instead, the Florida mega city is famous for its theme parks, including Magic Kingdom and its colossal Disney castle. You could easily spend a week exploring the different theme parks and rollercoasters , making it one of the best summer vacation spots for anyone wanting to let their hair down. It’s an ideal city choice if you love theme parks and the thrill of rollercoasters.

Undoubtedly, summers are a busy time for Orlando, especially given the school holidays and kids’ appeal. We’d suggest visiting in June if you want a quieter experience or in early September when most schools have returned.

You can also take some great day trips from Orlando, like to the Kennedy Space Center or Blue Springs State Park, to snorkel with a manatee. It’s an ideal summer vacation for anyone wanting to balance theme park fun with a few cool Florida experiences.

Insider Tip: Research passes and theme park discounts.

Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort.

18. San Francisco

San Francisco is a golden child of the West Coast. It is mainly known for its foggy conditions, with plenty of – slightly eerie – photos of the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in mist. It has a bit of a microclimate, with different neighborhoods experiencing different weather simultaneously because of wind patterns from its Pacific Coast location. However, the summer weather transforms the city into one of the US’ best summer vacation spots.

Fisherman’s Wharf becomes even more pleasant to walk around, as does Golden Gate Park. And there are festivals galore, from the Union Street Festival to the 4th of July celebrations. The outdoor Sundown Cinema also pops up in Dolores Park. At the same time, beach lovers can enjoy spectacular beaches like Baker Beach and Mile Rock Beach.

Like New York City, San Fran is a city that shakes itself into action over the summer, utilizing its precious green spaces and beaches. These are all the great things to do in San Francisco .

Insider Tip: Allow a few days in case of the ‘return of the fog’.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in San Fran , plus its best hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco.

19. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is gorgeous, with sloping mountain spikes cloaked in ice and acres of alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. If outdoor adventures are your thing, Glacier National Park really comes into its own for summer vacations. There are over 700 miles of trails to hike . With the summer temperatures underway, these are all now accessible without ice and snow underfoot.

You can hike to Grinnell Glacier, complete the Trail of the Cedars, admire multi-colored rocks in Lake McDonald, and see 35-foot Saint Mary Falls.

Glacier National Park is a real gateway into Montana, with mountain goats, grizzlies, and moose. Summer is when all these residents are most active too, so you’ll have a whale of a time choosing this park as your summer vacation.

Insider Tip: Bring bear spray – enough said.

Where to Stay: Moss Mountain Inn.

20. Zion National Park

Zion National Park , we’ll admit that we are obsessed. Like many of the beautiful national parks in southern Utah, Zion National Park is a slow starter for thawing out after winter. Spring is a tricky time as there is still ice on trails (which is a pain for sketchier routes like Angels Landing). You get all the snow melt, which makes trails like the Narrows inadvisable full of all but the most experienced hikers.

All of these factors combine to make Zion perfect for your summer vacation. Summer travelers get an easier version of the park, and if you visit in early summer, like June, you’ll still dodge the worst of the crowds. It’s incredible what waiting those extra couple of months can do regarding trail accessibility in Zion. And that’s what makes it one of the best summer vacation spots.

You can hike Angels Landing with safer footing, wade happily through the now-lower Narrows, and make your way to the Emerald Pools. Zion is all about outdoor adventure, so you want to be able to enjoy it.

Insider Tip: If you want to hike the major trails like Angels Landing, research the lottery permits beforehand.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in Zion National Park . Our top choice is Zion Villa .

21. The CA-1 Section of the Pacific Coast Highway

Road trip, anyone? Some of the best summer vacations are road trips. While Route 66 is officially in its ‘too hot’ territory, the breezy CA-1 section of the Pacific Coast Highway is perfect. The highway stretches from just north of San Francisco to Capistrano Beach, covering roughly three-quarters of the Californian coastline. You pass Santa Cruz, with its die-hard surfer culture, and Monterey , with its sea lion kayaking experiences. There’s also McWay Falls – an 80-foot mammoth of a sight – and gorgeous beaches along Santa Barbara. And that’s all without mentioning the Pacific Coast Highway’s famed bridges.

If you tackle the entire stretch , we would allow around a week. It covers a whopping 600 miles. You want to be able to take your time driving and stop as much as you’d like without rushing to clock up your miles for the day, so lean towards more days.

Insider Tip: Definitely carve out time to go kayaking with sea lions in Monterey.

Where to Stay: Alila Ventana Big Sur.

22. San Diego

San Diego is beautiful in summer, with easy access to a long chain of beaches like Silver Strand and Imperial Beach. The city is fast rising in popularity because of its year-round good weather, and summer is no exception. It’s as close to Mexico as you can possibly get in terms of climate and summer sunbathing, located right near the border in Southern California.

You can make the most of the sunshine with beach days , relax shopping around Seaport Village in the San Diego harbor, and go sightseeing around Balboa Park. We love the amount of outdoor space, which makes San Diego one of the best summer vacations.

To seriously dodge the crowds, we suggest visiting San Diego in September, which is quieter. Otherwise, as a second city compared to glitzy LA, San Diego is always pleasant to visit in terms of fewer crowds.

Insider Tip: Make sure you day trip to a few different beaches.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in San Diego and our top recommendation, Pantai Inn.

23. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is easily one of the most popular summer vacations in the USA and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The warmer weather means easier driving conditions – wave goodbye to gritted teeth and icy roads – and in May, the North Rim reopens to tourists after its seasonal closure. The incredible weather is perfect for hiking stunning trails like South Kaibab and South Rim Trail. You should still dodge most crowds if you get there early, in June rather than July or August.

We’d also recommend summer hiking in Grand Canyon National Park because of the extended daylight hours. You have sunsets later, meaning more time to polish off your activities for the day and then head to a scenic lookout.

You’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous North Rim, more daylight hours, and easier access. If you visit in June, you won’t have to compromise with crowd density and trail traffic.

Insider Tip: Be mindful of exposed trails in the midday heat and always abide by safety advice.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay near the Grand Canyon . We’d particularly recommend El Tovar Hotel .

24. Rocky Mountain National Park

Who doesn’t love the Rockies? Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for its protected mountain terrain and hiking trails like Bear Lake Trailhead . It is full of glassy lakes that reflect surrounding snow-capped mountains well into late spring, and the Rockies have some fabulous natural attractions like Lake Haiyaha. There’s no denying that it’s one of the best summer vacation spots, either; all of these attractions become suddenly more accessible in the summer season.

Everyone knows that the alpine tundra clings to its snow a little longer, and while experienced hikers and drivers may wish to skip the crowds and visit in early spring, waiting can be better. If you aren’t as confident or don’t have the right vehicle and equipment, Rocky Mountain National Park is easier to visit in summer. Be mindful of timings when embarking on trails – you can dodge most summer crowds just by being time-savvy.

Insider Tip: Pick early start times for hikes, especially on popular routes like Bear Lake.

Where to Stay: Blue Door Inn.

25. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of our top recommendations for the best summer vacation spots. As a national park famed for waterfalls, nothing quite suits a summer vacation better than a shaded hike through undergrowth to some of Yosemite’s best falls. While crowds and temperatures rise, you can always find a peaceful spot amongst the park’s dense redwoods.

Carbon Falls is a great place to visit in Yosemite in summer, as it’s swimmer-friendly. Mirror Lake is a pretty trail that is minimal effort in summer at just over 2 miles in length, while Four Mile Trail is a little more challenging with sweeping valley views. And, of course, you have to see the classic Yosemite Falls.

Early summer (think June) is best for waterfalls in Yosemite National Park, as it is when the snowmelt runs off and creates more dramatic falls. You don’t want to wait until the back end of summer, like August and September, as even Yosemite Falls can look slightly pathetic in its fall power by this time of year. Some waterfalls dry completely in mid to late summer, so the early birds get the worm here.

Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds.

Where to Stay: Here’s where to stay in Yosemite . Our favorite spot is Yosemite Valley Lodge.

26. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is famously sat on top of a dormant volcano, making it a hive of volcanic activity with exciting attractions like geysers and hot springs. It also has America’s largest herd of buffalo, grizzly bears, and wolves – which are more active in summer months. With the most daylight hours and accessible trails and roads, the summer season is the ideal time to experience all the intensity that Yellowstone National Park has to offer.

You can take a summer bus tour, get a permit to go fishing and experience the thrill of white water rafting. One of the best summer activities is horseback riding, heading through remote areas of natural beauty that a car just couldn’t get you to. And, of course, there are classic attractions like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring , and the Morning Glory Pool.

Yellowstone National Park does get busy in summer, but the increase in activity feels electric. You’ll see more wildlife and just generally enjoy easier road conditions and being outdoors more in warm weather.

Insider Tip: Get organized with trip planning as things sell out quickly.

Where to Stay: Check out our full comprehensive guide on Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park – Guide to the Best Hotels. Canyon Lodge Yellowstone is one of our favorites.

27. Acadia National Park

We won’t lie; Acadia National Park gets busy from June until early September, so if you are visiting on summer vacation, forget having trails to yourselves. However, despite this, Acadia National Park is still one of the best summer vacation spots in the USA. The mild weather makes hiking the plethora of trails heavenly, and you can enjoy things like kayaking, rock climbing, or mountain biking without the slippery, wet rocks and mud.

You can hike the short but tough Precipice Trail, which involves narrow ledges and metal ladder rungs nailed into rock faces. There’s also Ocean Path for views of the sea and the dramatic sight of Thunder Hole, where waves spray as high as 40 feet in the air.

Acadia National Park has some of the best trails to tackle, and it’s much more fun when they aren’t covered in a layer of slippery mud. We recommend wangling your summer trip for mid to late September, just after the summer rush but before the October fall foliage flurry of tourists.

Insider Tip: Plan ahead with parking reservations to overcome the summer crowds.

Where to Stay: Bar Harbor Manor.

Best Places to Visit in Summer: FAQs

When you are planning a summer getaway, the USA has tons to offer. In particular, you should make the most of outdoor activities and nature through water sports and hiking trails. Many national parks are inaccessible over winter and early spring if you don’t have expert equipment and 4WD vehicles. So summer is the perfect time to see many national parks in the USA.

Similarly, city breaks are also a great idea in summer, as cities are starting to embrace their outdoor spaces more, like movie nights in New York’s Bryant Park .

Before you go ahead and book your best summer yet, take heed of these quick FAQs. They may sway you if you are currently in between choices.

Which place is best to visit in summer?

The Utah National Parks are much easier to enjoy in June when the trails are more accessible. But if you’d prefer a beach-style vacation, we’d recommend the Outer Banks

Where is the best place for summer vacation?

The best places for a summer vacation in the USA are New York City, Chicago, San Diego, or San Francisco for a city break. Then, for a beach holiday, we’d recommend the Outer Banks.

What is the best country to visit in summer?

The USA is beautiful to visit in summer. The country has impressive nature, and summer is the best time to experience that, be it in the city center’s green spaces or remote national parks.

Where is the cheapest place to go in the summer?

Some of the cheapest states in the USA are West Virginia, Texas, and South Carolina. This means the Great Smoky Mountains and Galveston are some of the cheapest summer vacations on our list.

Why You Should Visit The USA in Summer

As you can see, the USA is never short of summer vacation ideas. These 27 best summer vacation spots are guaranteed to keep you on your toes this July and August, yet they are just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll find hundreds more amazing destinations across the USA in summer; we just couldn’t quite fit them on the list. The country really comes into its own with the arrival of summer. It’s one of the best lights you can possibly see it in.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guides on the best road trips to take around the USA in 2024 and the best national parks. We’ve even got a guide on the best beaches in the USA. These 27 destinations are just the beginning; make sure to continue researching, as the USA is overflowing with amazing summer vacation ideas.

Plan Your Next Summer Vacation With These Resources

• 27 Best Places to Visit in March USA
• 28 Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• 50 Best Places to Visit in the USA
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 28 Best Beaches in the USA
• 21 Best All-inclusive Resorts in the USA

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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15 of the best summer vacation ideas around the world

Summer. The word alone is enough to conjure images of golden sands, glistening seas, blue skies, and blazing sunshine. There’s much more to the best season than just lazing on a beach though. The best summer vacation ideas add awesome city breaks, outdoor adventures, and new experiences.

In this compendium of epic places to visit this summer , I’ve drawn on my own experiences traveling to my favorite destinations. From famous cities to far-flung islands, convenient and low-cost to wild and remote, whether you’re a family or flying solo, I’ve chosen something for everyone. All you have to do is book .

Summer vacation ideas 2024

• Milos, Greece
• Ericeira, Portugal
• Tân Hoá, Vietnam
• Chacas, Peru
• New York State Parks, US
• Big Sur, US
• Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Oku-Matsushima, Japan
• Positano, Italy
• Guanacaste, Costa Rica
• Cadiz, Spain
• Montreal, Canada
• Virginia Beach, US

1. Milos, Greece

• Best for: Dramatic, deserted beaches

The Cycladic island of Milos has long been one of Greece’s best-kept tourist secrets . Instead, it’s been a hangout for in-the-know Athenians, happily spending weekends soaking in its impossibly azure Aegean waters. Perhaps best known by art lovers, it’s famed as the place where a farmer unearthed the Venus di Milo statue in 1820, now on display in the Paris Louvre.

Milos’s dramatic volcanic landscapes lend it a lunar-like feel. Surreal, rainbow-colored rock formations, caves carved deep into plunging coastal cliffs, and vertiginous coves surrounding deserted beaches . Many can only be reached by boat from the picturesque port of Adamas. I love Sarakiniko for its undulating white cliffs juxtaposed against glowing waters, and Paleochori whose waters are warmed by underground hot springs.

2. Ericeira, Portugal

• Best for: Learning to surf

Portugal is blessed with a coastline that will have any surfer salivating. From the record-breaking moving mountains of Nazaré to the speeding barrels of Peniche, you’re never far from world-class waves.

For a family-friendly and consistent summer surf , Ericeira is my top summer vacation pick. A stone’s throw from Lisbon , it’s quick and easy to get to and has a bounty of lovely beach breaks. Surf schools are regulated so breaks don’t get too busy. I love Praia da Foz do Lizandro with its lifeguard-attended river mouth waves, huge golden sand beach, and easy parking.

Recently recognized as Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve for its wave quality, environmental sensitivity, and cultural importance, Ericeira also hosts the annual Portuguese Surf Film Festival each July.

3. Tân Hoá, Vietnam

• Best for: Adventures in nature

Summer is the height of the dry season in central Vietnam . Good thing too, as tiny Tân Hoá village is famed for its wet season flooding to the point where it gets completely submerged. But it’s also pioneering a new collaborative tourism model designed to invest in and invigorate a local community sometimes blighted by Mother Nature. 

Time your summer vacation right and it’s also a doorway to some of the country’s most magical natural assets. Located by Phong Nha-Ke Bàng National Park , it’s a perfect launch point to explore the extraordinary Tú Làn cave system . 

Comprising more than 20 caves, it’s the definition of otherworldly. Vast caverns, towering stalagmites and stalactites, and swimming pools make it an adventure-seeker’s dream. Surrounded by primary forests, limestone mountains, and the serene Rao Nan River, its timelessness and beauty will leave you awestruck.

4. Chacas, Peru

• Best for: Jaw-dropping views

Peru is full of big-name attractions worth your time. But look beyond Cusco and Machu Picchu and you’ll find lesser-known wonders to explore. Set dramatically on the slopes of the Cordillera Blanca in the Callejón de Conchucos, Chacas is just such a place. 

An atmospheric and historic town, it’s filled with wonderful Andean architecture and culture. For something different, don’t miss the raucous non-fatal bullfights, hosted at Ugo de Censi square. Nearby lie the pre-Inca archaeological remains of the Antash, Chagastunán, Huaraspampa, and Pirushtu.

Part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Huascarán National Park , Chacas is the entry point to huge landscapes. Fourteen snow-capped peaks, including Peru’s highest in the Nevado Huascarán Sur, and 38 glacial lakes beckon adventurers and nature lovers into the wild.

Fly into Lima and travel overland or take a short flight to the recently expanded Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport.

5. New York State Parks, US

• Best for: Celebrating a milestone

2024 sees New York ’s statewide parks system celebrate its centenary. Its 360,000 acres are home to beaches, trails, campgrounds, lakes, and open space, Revolutionary War sites, and Niagara Falls . In celebration, the Centennial Challenge invites visitors to complete 24 missions throughout the year within the parks. There are even prizes involved. 

Summer is the best time to take on such a challenge. Or simply to enjoy the splendor of the parks and what they offer. Missions might be to join a volunteer event or take a picnic in a park that’s new to you. Or you could stay at one of the 8,500 campsites like Taughannock Falls State Park . With spectacular trails to one of the state’s highest waterfalls, the prize for staying here is the view.

6. Bude, UK

• Best for: A classic seaside vacation

The British weather is much maligned but when the sun shines, north Cornwall is a great summer vacation idea. Specifically, the buzzing seaside town of Bude. Spend your days lazing on sandy beaches, wandering craggy coastlines, and overdosing on rich Cornish ice cream.

Build sandcastles on pretty Summerleaze Beach . If the waves are up take to the surf, while youngsters can swim safely in the sea pool. Overlooking Summerleaze is my favorite Bude restaurant, Life’s A Beach . Serving seaside staples like fish and chips alongside fresh local dishes, it’s the perfect post-surf or swim sundowner spot. 

Along the coast, wild beaches and atmospheric villages brimming with folklore beg to be explored. Fly into Bristol airport a few hours’ drive from Bude, rent a car , and hit the road. 

7. Big Sur, California, US

• Best for: Road-tripping

Is there a better way to spend a summer vacation than cruising the Pacific Coast Highway along the magical west coast? From San Francisco down to LA , 450-ish miles of winding tarmac snakes its way through the best of California. Blue skies, huge views, quirky towns, and remote beaches – it’s road trip nirvana.

Nowhere is that truer than in Big Sur , where the St Lucia mountains crash into the Pacific Ocean. Rugged and wild, undeveloped and immense, it blends windswept cliffs with Redwood forests, cocooning you in nature. While undoubtedly fun with kids, there’s something unmistakably romantic about Big Sur. Book a room at adults-only Ventana Big Sur , disconnect from the summer crowds, and relax.

8. Zanzibar, Tanzania

• Best for: A tropical paradise

An ocean jewel, Zanzibar is the rival of any island that lays claim to being a true tropical paradise. World-beating beaches, pungent spice plantations, and a deep and rich culture that balances African, Arabian, and European influences. It’s the perfect place to recoup as a standalone summer vacation or a post-Serengeti safari treat .

The first port of call has to be the beach or beaches. Powdery white sand fringes glowing blue Indian Ocean seas. Sunbathers sizzle while snorkelers patrol coral-rich shallows. For serenity and solitude, head to East Coast Matemwe and Pongwe beaches. 

My pick is the beach at Nungwi Village on Zanzibar’s northern tip, where modern amenities mix with local life. Watch boat builders and fishermen launch traditional dhows from the beach. Swim with turtles in the tidal lagoon sanctuary. Dive the reefs at Hunga and Leven Bank. And end every day on the beach with a stay at Nungwi Beach Resort .

9. Oku-Matsushima, Japan

• Best for: History buffs

Since the 2011 Japanese earthquake and tsunami, Honshu Island’s east coast has seen a significant drop in tourism. That’s a great shame because it remains one of the country’s most historic and enticing regions . 

Despite the heat and humidity, the summer months are a lively time to explore its lesser-known treasures. In the cradle of Matsushima Bay , the village of Oku-Matsushima is just that – a coastal sanctuary suspended in time. Amid remote islands, deserted beaches, and ancient settlements, the best way to see it is by walking the Oku-Matsushima Olle Trail . 

Begin in the Satohama Jomon no Sato Historical Park where history reaches back 7,000 years before the tsunami. Visit the Satohama Shell Mounds , one of Japan’s most evocative remnants of human activity from the Jomon period, and then climb to the top of Mount Otakamori at Inagasaki Park for eye-popping 360-degree views. You’ll soon understand why it was named as one of the “Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan.”

10. Positano, Italy

• Best for: Unadulterated glamor

If you’re going to do Italy’s Amalfi Coast, you may as well do it at its most fabulous. Summer escapes to Positano are a rite of passage for the European well-to-do and have become a beacon for US visitors too. Raise a Negroni from your lounger on Spiaggia Grande beach, sun shimmering over the Atlantic, and you too will see the light.

While the crowds are ridiculous and the prices high, I love Positano for its shameless celebration of glamor . Houses bleached in pink and peach tumble down the cliffside to the sea connected by winding stairways. Streets are perfumed by lemon groves and wisteria and soundtracked by the buzz of crowds filling restaurants and bars. It’s Italy at its most intoxicating.

11. Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• Best for: Family activities

Nature’s playground, the Nicoya Peninsula in northwest Costa Rica is among the best summer vacation spots for outdoor-loving families . In the teeming jungles of Guanacaste, hike trails searching for spider and howler monkeys. Or if you’re brave enough take flight high in the canopy on a zipline tour. At the jungle’s edge, black sand beaches like magical Playa Negra meet the rolling Pacific. 

Base yourself in Papagayo, where aquatic adventures await. Budget stays and luxury resorts , epic snorkeling, and world-class scuba sites, there’s something for every age and interest. 

Sorpresa is a dream dive – a 35-meter tower of marine life with crystal-clear visibility. In the shallows, coral reefs offer equally epic snorkeling. To the north a boat ride away you’ll find Witch’s Rock, one of the world’s most remote and spectacular surfing waves.

12. Cádiz, Spain

• Best for: Flamenco and seafood

Spain’s far south blazes in the summer months. Close enough to Morocco that you can practically smell the tagines, the landscapes of Andalucía feel almost African.

On the eastern coast, you’ll find Cádiz . Around 3,000 years old, it’s Europe’s most ancient city – a port that has survived weather, wars, and civilizations. Surrounded by battered seawalls to defend against invaders, 100 watchtowers keep a weather eye on the horizon, including the stunning Torre Tavira .

Its ancient center is a tangle of atmospheric streets begging to be walked. Drop into one of the many music venues to indulge in some alegrías , the frenetic local style of flamenco. Refuel at local favorite Freiduría Las Flores for the best pescaíto frito (fried fish) in town.

• Best for: A summer of sport

The world’s second-smallest country may cover less than a square mile, but it sure packs a lot in. Famed as the home of high-rollers, it boasts six Michelin-starred restaurants, expensive bars and Casino de Monte-Carlo . 

2024 sees the reopening of the iconic Café de Paris Monte-Carlo , the place to be seen for chic eating overlooking the Place du Casino . But it’s the summer sports calendar that stands this year apart. 

Alongside the famed Monaco Grand Prix on May 26th, the principality will also host the Tour de France 2024 . On July 21st the prestigious race will depart Monaco on its scenic final time trial to the finish line in Nice . In June, the World Rugby Sevens Repechage will also take place. If you love your sport , it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit this summer.

14. Montréal, Canada

• Best for: A budget family vacation

You don’t need to travel to Europe to get a taste of France. A quick hop across the border can see you in the heart of ultra-cool Montréal , tout de suite . Quebec’s biggest city is as French as the proverbial croissant – a joyous bilingual mix of music, art, food, and festivals.

The city has also had something of a spruce up for 2024. New transport connections make it easier than ever to visit. The recently opened MEM Museum brings the story of Montreal to life with large areas free to visit. While a raft of apartment-style accommodations like the Werfy Apart-Hotel offer high-end budget-friendly stays for families.

Montréal is also one of North America’s most walkable cities. Stroll the atmospheric alleyways and parks of Vieux-Port and the Quartier Latin. Take in the city’s extraordinary architecture at Le Plateau-Mont-Royal. And keep an ear out for live music in the buzzing Quartier des Spectacles.

15. Virginia Beach, Virginia, US

• Best for: Events and entertainment

Two coasts, golden beaches, and a three-mile boardwalk overflowing with restaurants, bars, and no fewer than four oceanfront stages. Virginia Beach was built for summer fun . Beyond its natural and manmade amenities, it also has among the busiest summer event schedules you’ll find in the US.

In June, sports lovers will be treated to the North American Sand Soccer Championship with more than 11,000 players competing. The following week, Jackalop e Fest delivers the adrenaline with a weekend of skateboarding, BASE jumping, skimboarding, bouldering, and more. August sees the 62nd annual East Coast Surfing Championship , now the world’s longest-running surf competition.

Festivals also abound. Juneteenth at the Beach celebrates unity on June 19th. The outrageous Totally Tribute Music Fest in July sees tribute acts rock out against each other on dueling oceanfront stages. The festival fun rolls into August with the annual Funk Fest Beach Party and Water Lantern Festival . And that’s just the tip of the events calendar iceberg.

Need more summer vacation ideas?

Summer is a magic time to travel. With long, bright, warm days across much of the world, it’s the best time to get outdoors. Beach breaks and hiking trips, city tours, and dining al fresco, everything feels better when it’s drenched in sunshine. 

If you’re looking for more summer vacation ideas , don’t miss the best places to visit in June , July , and August . Or for family-specific fun, check out these 15 summer vacation ideas for families.

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16 Summer Vacation Ideas for an Unforgettable Family Experience

Travel experts come through with the best vacation spots for every type of family and budget.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

The world is your oyster once again. For the first summer since 2019, you can travel to most destinations without jumping through a lot of extra hoops. But more choices and rising prices make it harder to commit: For instance, should you road-trip to a beach town, take the kids to the theme park they've been begging you to visit or immerse them in a new culture on their first international adventure? These are tough decisions.

To help narrow down the possibilities, the travel team at the Good Housekeeping Institute the legwork for you. We used research from our annual Family Travel Awards and talked with travel experts to come up with a list of 2023's best summer vacation ideas for traveling with children — young or grown. "Particularly in Europe, this is a year to consider wandering off the beaten path," says O'Shaughnessy.

Several spots on our list would make an awesome vacation with grandparents and other extended family. We also considered a range of price points so you'll have both budget and luxury vacation ideas. From our best family destinations, pick a place you've never been as a family and just book it. It'll feel so good to get away.

Big Island, Hawaiʻi

You can't go wrong with any of the Hawaiian islands, but the Big Island (officially called the island of Hawaiʻi) will enthrall active families with school-age kids and older. Picture large black volcanic rocks alongside calm blue water teeming with tide pools, and you've envisioned the stretch of beach on the Kohala Coast.

It's simply perfect for low-key days spent splashing and snorkeling. Driving from the coast (where most resorts are located) to Hawaiʻi Volcanos National Park will be the coolest road trip ever: You'll pass through many different types of climates — including a rainforest — before reaching the park. Once inside, kids can explore caves, take short hikes on volcanic terrain and feel the warmth from a steaming bluff. Adventure outfitters also offer memorable hikes around other parts of the island, including some that allow your family to swim under a waterfall. Whoa!

Where to Stay: Nestled between lava fields, the white sand beach at the newly renovated Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is one of the most breathtaking (and family-friendly) on the island.

Lucca, Italy

EXPLORE NOW

What's to Love: Fairytale vibes, colorful architecture and fewer tourists than Florence Keep in Mind: Rates are lower in June and August than in July.

Surrounded by thick medieval walls, Lucca is mysterious, magnificent and far less crowded than nearby Florence. A 14th-century tower that has a garden on top, Gothic cathedrals, piazzas and cobblestone streets will make your kids feel like they're immersed in a fairytale. Because it's mostly flat (unlike so many towns on Italy's Amalfi Coast), kids won't tire out as quickly. And when they do need to rest their little legs, stop at one of the gelato shops. There's enough to do in Lucca for a weekend, and you can spend the rest of your vacay taking day trips to other places in the region.

Where to Stay: How about a hotel next to an antique carousel? Bordering the Piazza Napoleon, the stunning Grand Universe Lucca is a good value compared to the rates at upscale properties in well-known Italian cities. Plus, the hotel is part of Marriott's Autograph collection, so you can use (and earn) Marriott Bonvoy points.

Traverse City, Michigan

What's to Love: Lake beaches, cherry orchards and wineries Keep in Mind: Even in summer, temperatures can drop into the 50s at night.

If there were a recipe for a perfect beach town, Traverse City supplies all the right ingredients — a variety of stunning public beaches, a fab food scene and a great home base for exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, winner of a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. Come in July or early August, so you can pick sweet cherries at a nearby orchard. The town even hosts the National Cherry Festival from July 1 to 8.

Where to Stay: Opening this June, the Alexandra Inn has a private beach on Lake Michigan and a study filled with family board games.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

What's to Love: Chocolate, theme park and gardens Keep in Mind: Hersheypark is busiest in the afternoon, so hit the hotel pool after lunch and return to the park at night when it's cooler and less crowded.

With the smell of chocolate in the air and street lights shaped like Hershey Kisses, this town in central Pennsylvania lives up to its reputation as one of the sweetest places on Earth. Hersheypark , which dates back to 1906, is the main draw thanks to its fabulous lineup of both coasters and kiddie rides. A new coaster, its 15th, is expected to open this summer.

Next door, at the air-conditioned Hershey's Chocolate World, your crew can pack into a candy-themed vehicle to learn how chocolate bars are made and score a free sample at the end. Be sure to explore downtown, home of the Hershey Theatre (where Broadway touring shows often play) and MeltSpa by Hershey. The nearby Hershey Gardens, with a butterfly atrium and hands-on nature play for kids, is a great spot to relax.

Where to Stay: With indoor and outdoor pools, waterslides, a splash zone, an arcade and an ice cream shop, Hershey Lodge is almost as much of a kid magnet as the park. Everyone in your group scores a full-size Hershey bar at check-in.

Maremagnum // Getty Images Montreal, Canada

Montreal, canada.

What's to Love: Fantastic exchange rate, very walkable and great for a trip with extended family Keep in Mind: Once you enter Quebec, all the street signs are in French so familiarize yourself with the words for stop, exit and so forth.

If a trip to Europe isn't in the budget this summer, Montreal may be the next best thing. "You get the European feel; the neighborhoods are enchanting," says Samantha Brown, a mom of two and host of the TV show Samantha Brown’s Places to Love . The city has the most surprisingly lovely "green alleyways," scenic car-free paths that may take you past kids' lemonade stands and artisans selling their wares, Brown says. Historic buildings, museums, parks and churches plus an array of festivals also add to the European vibe. Plus, kids may pick up a couple of French words or phrases. Magnifique!

Where To Stay: Try Sonder Maisonneuve in the downtown area. You can book a three-bedroom apartment with a kitchen and laundry for about the same price as a single upscale hotel room.

Carlsbad, California

What's to Love: Legoland, beaches and flowers Keep in Mind: The closest and (and most convenient) major airport is John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

Can't decide between a beach vacation and a theme park trip? Carlsbad, north of San Diego, offers the best of both worlds. It's home to Legoland California, an imaginative theme park designed especially for the under-12 crowd. Mini coasters, a driving school and fairytale-like boat rides especially wow the youngest visitors. Lines go by fast because kids can play at Lego tables while they wait. After one or two theme-park days, Carlsbad State Beach gives your family a chance to refresh by the water. Its picnic area, restrooms, lifeguards and a walking path along the coast help turn a good beach day into a great one.

Where to Stay: If you want to go all into the theme-park experience, Legoland California has its own hotel with themed rooms and the most fun elevator ever (no spoilers!). For a more low-key spot, try Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa .

Williamsburg, Virginia

What's to Love: Cool historical attractions, nature activities and mini golf Keep in Mind: It's best to explore the outdoor attractions in the morning when it's cooler.

Steeped in history, this former capital of Virginia is educational and entertaining. Colonial Williamsburg , an outdoor living history museum and winner of a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award, immerses kids in 18th-century life. Hands-on activities as well as demonstrations from blacksmiths and other tradespeople dressed in the attire of the times ignite their curiosity. The historic settlements in Jamestown, operated by the National Park Service, are a short drive away. After sneakily educational days, families can unwind at one of the many ice cream shops and mini golf spots.

Where to Stay: Thanks to its multiple pools, playground, golf courses, marina and spa, Kingsmill Resort could be a vacation in itself. Condos with up to three bedrooms can accommodate large families and little kids' sleep schedules.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

EXPLORE NOW What's to Love: Lake activities, concerts and festivals and budget-friendly lodging Keep in Mind: Stay downtown where you can hop on the free street car to major attractions.

With a burgeoning music scene, Milwaukee hosts Summerfest , the world's largest music festival. In 2023, it's taking place over three long weekends — June 22-24, June 29-July 1 and July 6-8. One of the 12 festival stages is in Northwestern Mutual Community Park, which has a colorful playground, family restrooms and sensory rooms. Plan your trip over one of those weekends and spend a few extra days exploring the area's beaches. Located on Lake Michigan, Bradford Beach has received environmental certification from the nonprofit Clean Beaches Coalition.

Where to Stay: In the city's center, the six-floor Courtyard by Marriott Milwaukee Downtown boasts an indoor pool and modern rooms that sleep up to five and include a mini fridge and microwave.

Chicago, Illinois

What's to Love: Fantastic parks, top attractions and iconic food Keep in Mind: Double-check the hours of the attractions you want to visit. The Art Institute of Chicago, for instance, is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

If you usually avoid city vacations with kids, Chicago is the place that's most likely to change your mind. "Many families don't realize that the city has 12 miles of beaches in addition to phenomenal attractions," says Brown. In fact, the city's world-class aquarium, planetarium and natural-history museum are all next to each other on the waterfront. In the Lincoln Park neighborhood, there's a free zoo that's superior to its admission-charging counterparts. Visit on a Wednesday or Saturday when a farmers' market pops up in the area.

Where to Stay: Winner of a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award, the Waldorf-Astoria Chicago provides exceptional service plus special amenities for babies and kids.

Cavtat, Croatia

Greece is a hot ticket again this year, according to O'Shaughnessy, with limited availability and high rates. She suggests heading North to Croatia for a similar experience that's more budget-friendly with fewer crowds. One of the country's hidden gems is Cavtat, a town with a stunning waterfront promenade and 5 miles of beaches. It's just 10 minutes from the Dubrovnik airport that offers direct flights from NYC and other cities.

Where to Stay: Located in the charming historic center, the recently renovated Hotel Supetar Cavtat is divine and has a beautiful pool. Like most European hotels, families will need to book two rooms.

Santa Barbara, California

What's to Love: Family-friendly, glorious beaches and good weather Keep in Mind: You can take a ferry to Channel Islands National Park, about 22 miles off the coast. The five-island chain has been called the “Galapagos of North America.”

If any place can deliver a vacation (and not just a trip) for families with young kids, it's Santa Barbara. It's all just so pretty and easygoing. With gentle waves, Leadbetter Beach is a great spot to introduce toddlers to the ocean. Outdoor showers, restrooms and a grassy area for picnics remove some of the hassles of a beach day with littles. Attractions are engaging but not massive: At the zoo, for instance, kids can get up to kangaroos and wallabies in a new exhibit. At the Museum of Natural History's Sea Center, touch tanks and windows at kid height give little ones a close-up look at the sea creatives native to Santa Barbara. The botanic garden has the sweetest adventure space with a fort building, a maze and obstacle courses.

Where to Stay: The recently renovated Kimpton Canary has the largest rooftop pool in the city, providing stunning mountain views. It also offers a variety of suite sizes to accommodate large families or three generations traveling together.

St. Augustine, Florida

What's to Love: Spanish colonial architecture, unspoiled beaches and wildlife Keep in Mind: You'll probably want to rent a car to explore the area's beaches and get to and from the airport.

In the nation's oldest city, a good time will be had by all ages. A pirate-themed museum, lighthouse and an array of interesting historical sites entertain multiple generations. On top of that, the area boasts 42 miles of beaches, including one that has four ecosystems. The food scene is booming too. Our Family Travel Awards tester enjoyed AsadoLife, a newish waterfront restaurant that specializes in grilling.

Where to Stay: Ideal for families with older children, Casa Monica Resort & Spa is "in the perfect location to the downtown area and an easy walk to restaurants and attractions," said our tester. On days you want to play in the ocean, you'll have access to the resort's private club on Ponte Vedra Beach, about a 15-minute drive from the resort. The club also offers kids' activities plus a family pool that starts at just a few inches deep.

Algarve, Portugal

What's to Love: Fabulous beaches, thermal springs and many resorts Keep in Mind: There aren't direct flights from the U.S. You'll need a stopover in London, Dublin or another European city.

European families know how to vacation right — one of the most popular destinations is this sunny region in Southern Portugal. Dramatic cliffs, wildlife-filled lagoons, sea caves and long stretches of sand for building castles dot the coastline. Called the "California of Europe," this region is known for its fantastic food scene and mix of beaches and countryside.

Where to Stay: Situated in a protected nature park, the Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort is "completely family-driven," says O'Shaughnessy. Fun supervised clubs for kids ages 6 months through 17 give parents time to go stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing or just chill at the beach. You can pre-book baby gear, so you don't have to haul your own. Restaurants have a kids' play area and the children's menu includes baby purees.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

What's to Love: Nature activities, unique attractions and good value Keep in Mind: Time your visit to line up with one of the city's fun music or food festivals.

Two hours southeast of Nashville, Chattanooga is an under-the-radar gem. "It's right on the river and surrounded by phenomenal cliffs," says Brown. Adventurous families will be in their element with all the opportunities for hiking, biking and rock climbing. "The city also has one of the best hang-gliding schools in the world," says Brown. You'll also want to add Ruby Falls to your must-do list. You'll descend 260 feet in a glass elevator to see some of the deepest underground cave waterfalls. The kids' minds will be blown.

Where to Stay: Near Ruby Falls, the Hampton Inn Chattanooga West/Lookout Mountain is a budget-friendly pick that has both indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel brand won a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award.

Orlando, Florida

What's to Love: Theme parks, shopping, fun restaurants Keep in Mind: Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so keep ponchos with you.

Let's be real for a minute: Summer isn't the best time to go to Orlando . But if that's the only time you can go, do it! All the major theme parks have new attractions this summer. Walt Disney World recently opened its mega-fun TRON Lightcycle / Run coaster at Magic Kingdom. A new Minion-themed attraction and restaurant are expected to debut at Universal Studios Florida this summer. Over at SeaWorld, coaster fans will look forward to the launch of Pipeline: The Surf Coaster this spring.

Where to Stay: If you're planning on sticking mostly to Disney, opt for Disney's Yacht Club Resort , which is connected to the new Skyliner system that will whisk you to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Planning on spending most of the vacay at Universal? The value-priced Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort has fun retro vibes, two massive pools and a bowling alley. For families who are splitting their time between parks or prefer a more chill atmosphere, try Grande Lakes Orlando , winner of a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

What's to Love: Pristine beaches, biking and island vibes Keep in Mind: Make ferry reservations to get to the island, as soon as you book your hotel.

This tiny island off Cape Cod feels like its own little world. The days are slow — in a good way. There's plenty of time to make sandcastles and splash in the ocean then grab ice cream from one of the many charming downtown shops. The island's three lighthouses look like they're straight out of a movie. You'll also enjoy some spectacular seafood — here's your chance to introduce kids to a lobster roll!

Where to Stay: The Nantucket Hotel & Resort embodies New England charm. It lets kids ride on an antique firetruck, hosts weekly clambakes and is within walking distance of a lighthouse and downtown.

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• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

19 Best Summer Vacations in The U.S. for Families – Kid Friendly Ideas!

Summer vacations are great for catching up with the family.

Plus, they’re an excellent way to unwind after a busy couple of months.

The good news is that you don’t need to leave the country to enjoy that extended vacation.

The US has no shortage of getaway destinations—from resorts with full amenities to parks and historical sites.

In fact, the country has a lot to offer, so the challenge is to choose where to go.

I know this because I’ve experienced it many times.

Creating an itinerary for my summer getaways with the family took some work.

But I now know better after so many trials (and errors).

So, I created this comprehensive review to help you plan your sunny getaway.

The review also considers insights from fellow parents I interviewed during my visits.

I also ranked each destination based on several criteria, like family-friendly activities and dining options.

Ready for your epic family adventure?

Start planning with my roundup of spots offering the best summer vacations in U.S. for families:

Best Summer Vacations In U.S. For Families Compared

The U.S. boasts everything from luxury hotels to charming cities and beaches. You have many options for the perfect summer getaway with the family. Here are our top choices:

Editor’s Choice

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

This five-star resort has everything you need for a fun-filled family vacation.

• Family-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4.5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Dining Options: 4.5/5
• Safety and Security: 4.5/5
• Value for Money: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Still Waters Resort

This resort is for the family who loves the great outdoors. You’ll find the establishment sitting right on Table Rock Lake.

• Location: 4/5
• Value for Money: 4.5/5

#3rd Best Choice

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

This three-story lodging establishment offers modern amenities in a rustic setting.

• Family-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Location: 4.5/5
• Dining Options: 4/5

Here are the top 19 summer vacations in the US for families.

1. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (Editor’s Choice)

10100 Dream Tree Blvd Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836 (407) 313-7777 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Many family-friendly amenities
• Proximity to Disney theme parks
• Expensive rates

The establishment is just minutes away from Disney theme parks.

And yet you don’t need to travel alone since the hotel provides complimentary transportation.

Not in the mood to go out?

You can enjoy just as much if you stay inside the resort.

Bond with the kiddos in the establishment’s five-acre water park.

Want to unwind with your significant other instead?

Hit the adults-only pool while the kids enjoy the water park’s splash zones and interactive fountains.

Or check out the spa and enjoy a relaxing couple’s massage.

The young ones can participate in activities organized by the kids club while you’re at it. 

Related: Best Beaches in The USA

Related: Florida Family Vacations

2. Still Waters Resort

21 Stillwater Trail Branson, MO 65616 (800) 777-2320 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• A wide array of nature activities
• Many dining options
• Intermittent Wi-Fi connection

This resort is for the family who loves the great outdoors.

You’ll find the establishment sitting right on Table Rock Lake.

That means you can enjoy activities like boating, kayaking, and even fishing.

If you prefer a dry adventure, why not hike any of the resort’s trails?

And if you get hungry, just enjoy a meal in Pizza World or Shady Taco.

Want a nice drink?

How do Bridges Coffee and Thirsty’s Cocktail Bar sound?

But if you want to prepare your family’s food and beverages, head straight to your six-bedroom condo in front of the lake.

You’ll have everything to prepare the perfect meal in your full kitchenette.

Related: The Best Waterpark Hotels in North Carolina

Related: North Carolina Family Vacations

3. The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

149 State Hwy 64 Tusayan, AZ 86023 (928) 638-3333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Rustic-elegant ambiance
• Proximity to the Grand Canyon

The kids can take a dip in the indoor pool.

Meanwhile, you can get your daily dose of exercise in the gym.

If you no longer want to be cooped up in the hotel, just explore the nearby Grand Canyon.

Leave early for your hike to see the sunrise over the beautiful gorges.

Want to try something different?

How about a helicopter ride to some of the Canyon’s most remote places?

After your long day outside, your spacious room will be waiting for you.

Upload your pictures to your social media accounts using your room’s Wi-Fi.

You want to keep your friends posted about your perfect family vacation.

Related: Florida Keys Hotels

4. The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection

9641 Sunset Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 276-2251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With its beautiful blend of vintage glamor and modern luxury, The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection is an excellent alternative to the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort and Still Waters Resort.

Live like Hollywood royalty during your family vacation in Beverly Hills.

You can even pick the accommodations once used by iconic personalities.

Try Bungalow 1, where acclaimed actress Marilyn Monroe used to stay.

And it shows since it has an entire library of her books and films.

How about you stay in Bungalow 3 instead?

Hollywood director Howard Hughes made it his home during the more than  30 years he’d visited the hotel.

You’ll find many model airplanes in this bungalow for the kids, inspired by his love for aviation.

But there’s much more to see in this hotel than its luxurious rooms.

Make sure you check out the spa.

You can enjoy a rejuvenating treatment for the full recharge.

As for the kids, they can take a dip in the hotel’s iconic pool.

Related: The Best Family Resorts in the U.S.

5. Yellowstone National Park, WY

Yellowstone, Mammoth, WY (307) 344-7381 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Yellowstone National Park is another one of the great summer holiday destination ideas for you to consider.

This is one of the premier national parks in the country and is a great way of experiencing its natural beauty and splendor.

There are designated areas for you to picnic and camp.

For the little ones, there is also the Yellowstone’s Junior Ranger program that can be extremely educational.

The kids can come back home having learned about the natural formations like the hot springs in the park.

The sunrise at Lamar Valley is also something you should not miss at the national park.

If you are quiet, you will also be able to observe some wildlife in their natural habitat.

Recommended Hotel: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, a Noble House Resort

Related: Best Hotels in Yellowstone

6. Florida’s Space Coast

267 W Cocoa Beach Causeway Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (321) 433-4470 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since you’re wondering where to vacation in the summer with family, Florida’s Space Coast is certainly an option I would like to put on the table.

If you or your kids are space enthusiasts, this is the perfect place to spend a quiet two weeks of summer.

Of course, I will recommend paying a visit to NASA’S Kennedy Space Center as well as the many other space museums in this area.

But other than that, there is a long stretch of the coast where the beach is inviting you to have a lie-down and work on that tan.

If you are all spent on the space center, you can unwind on the white sand.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center

7. Niagara Falls, NY

10 Rainbow Blvd. Niagra Falls, NY 14303 (877) 325-5787 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Niagara Falls is one of the best places to take the kids, but be sure to pack the appropriate clothes for this trip.

The Maid of the Mist is really the only way to experience the Niagara Falls in their full glory.

This is an incredible cruise that will take you right to the bottom of the falls where you can feel the whiplash of the water on your face.

At night, you can see the falls have been illuminated—another great moment for a family photograph.

I would say June, July and August is the best time of the year to visit the falls.

If you can hop onto the Canadian side of the falls, you can also enjoy the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark with the kids and family.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Related: Family Vacations in New York

8. Grand Canyon, AZ

11 Yavapai Lodge Road Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 (877) 404-4611 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic places to visit in the United States and is going to be on every list of places to visit, not only in North America but in the whole world.

Despite being in the arid desert, the Grand Canyon is an incredible destination to check off your summer vacation list.

This is a natural wonder that your kids must visit.

The destination expects tourists every year and is perfectly kid friendly.

In fact, the kids are likely to have more of a blast than their parents, learning about geology and the culture of the natives in the canyon.

There is also the enactment of a train robbery, and you can also enjoy some exciting Western music with the family.

Recommended Hotel: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Related: Places to Visit in Arizona

Related: Arizona Family Vacations

9. Southern California

Sacramento, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Southern California is one of the most picturesque and pleasant parts of the United States.

There is hardly ever any bad weather in SoCal and who does not want a trip around the Universal Studios lot?

Experience the glamorous California life by soaking in the sun in Los Angeles and driving around Beverly Hills, looking at homes of famous people.

I love spending time at the beach in Southern California and I could watch people surfing in the refreshing waters for hours.

The San Diego Zoo is definitely something the kids would enjoy and it is only a train away from the coast.

I would also suggest you make a trip to the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the incredible sunset.

Recommended Hotel: Terranea – L.A.’s Oceanfront Resort

Related: Southern California Restaurants

Related: Restaurants: San Diego, California

Related: Best Los Angeles Restaurants

10. Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod, MA (508) 362-3225 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cape Cod is the perfect place to visit with a large family, with a mix of kids and the elderly.

There is something for everyone at Cape Cod, making it the perfect place to spend a summer with your loved ones.

There are incredible beaches, charming towns and sprawling lawns where often you can listen to a live band play in the evenings.

You can also explore incredible activities like whale watching and kayaking during your time at Cape Cod.

If you are looking to have an old-fashioned date with your spouse, the Wellfleet drive-in theater is the perfect idea for a date night.

There are also plenty of options to play mini-golf, bumper boats, and other family-friendly attractions.

Recommended Hotel: Chatham Bars Inn

Related: Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

11. Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC (202) 789-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Washington DC is the perfect place to spend the summer and also have your kids learn more about the United States and its long history.

There are several landmarks around DC that will keep the kids busy.

For starters, the carousel at National Mall is certainly going to be a hit among the kids.

There is also the Lincoln Memorial and US Capitol that you cannot miss.

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is also a great place to take the kids—do not miss the panda enclosures!

There is also a nightly tour that takes you around the city to see the famous monuments illuminated brilliantly.

There is an endless list of things to do in DC, so I would suggest you plan and pick and choose the places you want to cover.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Washington DC

Related: Places to Eat in Washington DC

12. West Michigan’s Lakeshore

721D Kenmoor Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 245-2217 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

West Michigan’s Lakeshore is a massive lakeside holiday destination that will make you feel like you have made a trip to the beach , but you do not need to spend as much money to get out to a beach.

Simply stay put next to the lake and you can do all the activities that one might otherwise enjoy at a beach.

You can also visit the town of Holland, an homage to the beautiful European destination, and lie among the incredible tulips.

There are plenty of exciting activities to try by the lake, like taking the boat cruise, visiting the lighthouse, and the incredible museum.

This is the perfect mix of a lazy and adventurous vacation.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grand Rapids East, MI

13. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA (757) 220-6100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Williamsburg is one of the most exciting and beautiful destinations in the United States to spend a weekend or two with the family.

You will feel like you have traveled back in time and left the chaos of the city in the 21st century.

The Jamestown Settlement has preserved the ruins of a colonial fort and 17th-century battle and trade ships.

The American Revolution Museum is a must visit for the kids to learn about the incredible and rich (albeit violent) history of the United States.

You can also take carriage rides, participate in activities like soap making, and a lot more in Williamsburg.

Recommended Hotel: Kingsmill Resort

Related: Restaurants to Try in Williamsburg

Related: Virginia Family Vacations

14. Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL (312) 567-8560 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking to holiday in a big city but find the idea of navigating through New York City or Los Angeles a bit daunting, Chicago is the perfect alternative.

It allows you to get a big city experience while at the same time also explore the many family-friendly attractions by Lake Michigan .

I would highly recommend taking one of the boat tours that take you through the architecture of the city.

The Field Museum is one of the best museums in the country and the kids will absolutely love the massive dinosaur skeleton in the lobby.

The 150-foot Ferris wheel is also incredibly exciting and gives you a stunning view of the whole pier.

Recommended Hotel: The Peninsula Chicago

Related: Restaurants: Chicago, Illinois

15. Maui, HI

Maui, HI (800) 525-6284 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Maui is another great place to enjoy a family vacation in the summer.

It has incredible beaches that never disappoint, and the Old Lahaina Luau is a great place to learn about the history of the place.

The Maui Ocean Center is a hit with the kids for obvious reasons, since they can feed marine life like sharks and turtles.

This could also be where your kid gets their first snorkeling or surf lesson, as they are tailor made for the little ones to catch on and have fun.

I would highly recommend taking a tour in the Atlantis Submarine which will take you 100 feet below water to show you the incredible marine life.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

Related: Maui Restaurants

Related: Hawaii Family Vacations

16. Boston, MA

Boston, MA (617) 635-4500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Boston is a city that offers something for everyone—from sports lovers to book lovers and everything in between.

The city is historic, and is home to the first subway system in America, the first public park, a public library, and more.

Many of the firsts that America has seen have originated in Boston, Massachusetts.

I would recommend strolling up to Beacon Hill to look at some of the most beautiful vintage mansions.

In fact, this is a great city to simply walk around in and discover its many secrets and histories.

A few places that I think are absolute must visits are the Museum of Fine Arts, Paul Revere House and the Faneuil Hall.

Recommended Hotel: The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Related: Places to Eat in Boston

Related: Family Reunion Destinations

17. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC (800) 356-3016 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is an incredible part of the coast that offers beaches of soft brown sand.

This is one of the best places you can visit with the family on the East Coast.

Apart from the delectable cuisines and delicacies to try at this perfect beach holiday, you will also get to indulge in some retail therapy at the outlet malls.

If you are a golf enthusiast, there are over 100 courses that you can enjoy in the area.

The Broadway Grand Prix and the Ripley’s Aquarium are also two places that I would highly recommend paying a visit to.

If you are looking to holiday on a budget, this could be one of the best places to pick for your summer holiday with the kids.

Recommended Hotel: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes

Related: Best Places to Eat in Myrtle Beach

18. Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD (800) 626-2326 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ocean City, MD is a great budget and kid-friendly destination to explore with the family.

Ocean City is what American holiday dreams are made of.

There are incredible amusement parks to enjoy and the beaches are also something you do not want to miss.

The Boardwalk is a great way to enjoy an evening stroll along the ocean and feel the breeze on your skin.

I would also recommend a day-trip to Assateague Island National Seashore where you can enjoy some quiet time in the lap of the ocean.

This is a destination that does not frequently come on people’s lists often, but I have found it to be a very pleasant holiday destination.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Ocean City Oceanfront

19. US Virgin Islands

U.S. Virgin Islands Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The US Virgin Islands are an incredible way to experience the Caribbean while still remaining on American territory.

Life at the US Virgin Islands is going to be different from anything you have ever experienced on the mainland.

While you are walking the streets, you may be able to catch snippets of a Creole dialect, watch an incredible carnival parade, and generally be in a pleasant and merry mood, simply because of the surroundings.

I especially recommend paying a visit to islands like St. Thomas , St. Croix , and St. John to get a sense of history in this part of the world and how they came to be.

The great thing about being on these islands is that you do not need to convert your currency since US dollars are accepted here.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham – St Thomas

Related: Top Restaurants in the US Virgin Islands

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Before picking your destination, compare and contrast your options.

Then choose the one that suits your preferences.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort offers many family-friendly amenities.

And it’s close to Disney theme parks, too.

Be prepared to shell out more here, though—the rates are a bit high.

With its nature setting, Still Waters Resort features a wide array of outdoor activities for the family.

However, you may encounter minor issues with the Wi-Fi connection.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy a beautiful rustic-elegant ambiance at The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon.

You can easily access the Grand Canyon from the hotel, too.

But its pool is relatively small, so it might feel crowded even with fewer people.

Want to experience vintage glamor and luxury in one instead?

The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection is an excellent alternative.

Live like your favorite celebrity for the complete unwind.

The hotel’s only downside is that it has limited kid-friendly activities.

How I Picked The Destinations

To pick the destinations on this list, I first considered my personal experiences.

And I’ve been to many places across the country–-for my summer vacations with the family and my work as a travel writer.

I also considered the information provided by fellow travelers during my visits.

And for the places I haven’t been to, I took into account reviews posted on trusted sites. 

Our Rating Method

I rate these vacations based on the following criteria.

• Family-friendly Activities: This criterion assesses family-friendly activities. What entertainment options are available? Are there attractions for the whole family? Do they offer kid-friendly events and activities? Are there swimming pools, mini-golf courses, or game rooms? I ask myself these questions when rating family-friendly activities. 
• Accommodation Options: I use this to assess the accommodation options of every option. Are there spacious and comfortable rooms? Does it offer family suites or interconnected rooms? Can they accommodate families of different sizes? I consider these factors when evaluating accommodation options. 
• Location: I use this to evaluate the location of every vacation destination. Are local attractions, theme parks, museums, or national parks nearby? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it offer complimentary shuttle services? Is it near popular attractions? These questions are essential when rating location. 
• Dining Options: This criterion assesses dining options. Is there an on-site restaurant? Does it offer kid-friendly menus or buffet style-dining? Can they accommodate different dietary restrictions and preferences? Do they offer cooking classes? I ask myself these questions when assessing dining options. 
• Safety and Security: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Are the staff trained for emergencies? Are there lifeguards stationed at every pool? Are there CCTV cameras in common areas? I consider these factors when rating safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value for money of every destination. Are the rates reasonable? Are there packages, deals, or discounts? Are there complimentary meals, events, or activities? I use these factors to assess this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we pack for a summer vacation in the u.s..

This will depend on your destination and activities, but in general, pack lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, swimsuits, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the summer weather. If you’re planning outdoor activities, consider insect repellent and outdoor gear. Don’t forget chargers for your devices, entertainment for travel, and any necessary identification or travel documents.

How Can We Save Money On A Family Vacation?

Start planning and booking as early as possible to get the best deals on flights and accommodations. Look for family deals or group discounts on attractions. You can also save by packing snacks and meals, staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities, and choosing destinations with a lot of free or low-cost activities.

Each of the destinations on this list has something unique to offer.

At Still Waters Resort, the kids and I relished the views as we made our way on our boat on the lake.

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon served as our family’s perfect base after hiking in the gorges.

Meanwhile, my partner and I enjoyed sipping drinks in the glamorous pool at the Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection.

But of all these destinations, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort still offers one of the best summer vacations in U.S. for families.

The kids and I had a blast in the hotel’s massive water park.

I also enjoyed spending time with them on Disneyland Park rides like Splash Mountain.

The rates may be expensive.

But those family bonding moments you get to have are priceless.

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The 12 Most Underrated Summer Vacation Destinations In The South

The hallmarks of a Southern summer are well-known throughout the region. Running through sprinklers in the yard, spitting watermelon seeds off the front porch, and long days lazing by the pool are just a few of our favorite pastimes. In a season built around spending quality time with loved ones, a summer vacation is the pinnacle experience. Weekend jaunts to your nearest stretch of coast are a given, but if you’re looking to liven up your vacation plans this year, consider one of these underrated summer vacation destinations. Some of these locales are more popular in other seasons, while others are quieter versions of your favorite seasonal spots. Regardless, they’re all fabulous places to travel this summer and deserve a second look when you’re scheduling a week or weekend away. Here are 12 underrated summer vacation destinations in the South. 

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Nature enthusiasts won’t have to roam far for a summertime destination worthy of their bucket lists. Known for its world-class rock climbing and hiking, summer is as good a time as any to get familiar with this impressive geological wonder in the heart of the Bluegrass State. The impressive canyon system formed by the Red River includes high sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, sandstone arches, rock shelters, and scenic waterfalls all waiting to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots, fill up your water bottles, and get ready for an adventure to remember. Want to make your stay a touch more memorable? Book a few nights with Canopy Crew , a rental company with one-of-a-kind tree house stays across the Gorge.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Getty Images

Nothing says summer like a day on the lake. If you’re lucky enough to have your own lake house (or a very generous friend with one), you may have your summer plans set, but the rest of us are on our own. Luckily, the South has been blessed with dozens of recreational lakes that are perfect for a weekend on the water. Just 30 minutes outside the Atlanta metro, Lake Lanier’s sparkling 38,000 acres of fresh water are just begging for a pontoon boat and a good country playlist. Waterfront houses and cabins to suit any size group are readily available, as is the Lanier Islands Resort , an all-in-one lakeside retreat where stay options include the lodge, luxury villas, cottages, RV sites, and even glamping tents at an attached Margaritaville Resort.  

Richmond, Virginia

Thomas McConnel

A summer in the city can be just as magical as one in the wilderness, if you know how to do it right. In Richmond , you’ll get the best of both worlds. The state’s capital is more enticing than ever thanks to a dedicated group of locals who have worked hard to keep Richmond a beautiful place to live and visit. Summer is the best time to experience the James River, which runs through the center of downtown, on white water rafting tour. Yes, you heard us right. This the only place in the country where you can find Class IV rapids running through a city. After you’ve had your outdoor thrills, take the evening to explore Richmond’s excellent culinary scene, then round out your night with a pint and live music at one of the city’s many breweries in the hip Scott’s Addition neighborhood.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Courtesy Mercier Orchards

If you think of the mountains solely as an autumn destination, think again. Blue Ridge may beloved for its scenic train rides and apple picking in the fall , but summer is an equally wonderful time to explore this part of the Peach State. All the outdoor recreation opportunities—from hiking to camping to fishing to kayaking—make this a popular hangout for families. But don’t let the downtown crowds phase you, there’s plenty of room to roam on the many hiking trails the crisscross the area, as well as on Lake Blue Ridge. For a quintessential summer experience, visit Mercier Orchards, an 80-year-old, family-owned operation where you can pick strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries from May through July, respectively.

Mercer County, West Virginia

Courtesy of Visit Mercer County

Roll down the windows and turn up the radio as you cruise through the rolling farmland and dense forests of Mercer County on the southern border of West Virginia. Temperatures ever climb higher than the low 80s and when the sun goes down, there’s a pleasant nip in the air that’s only a distant memory to most of the South. Summertime activities range from hiking in the area’s three state parks to blueberry picking at nearby farms to cheering on the hometown team in a Iocal baseball game. Consider aligning your trip with the Bramwell Tour of Homes, held on the second Saturday of each June, where guests get to see inside stunning Victorian homes on Millionaire Row. Did we mention this is one of the best places in the country to see the Milky Way from May through September?

Navarre, Florida

Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images

For some Southerners (read: most), summer’s simply not summer without a classic beach trip . If you can’t resist the call of the ocean, follow its siren song to Navarre, a tiny community on the western portion of the Florida panhandle. Tucked between the more popular Gulf Coast destinations of Pensacola and Destin, Navarre has been heralded as “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place” thanks to its relatively low tourist traffic and lowkey appeal. Lay out a towel on the white sand beaches, train your eyes on the emerald-green waves, and take a deep breath. The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier , which holds the title as the longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico, is a great place to drop a line or grab dinner al fresco. With direct beach access, Windjammers on the Pier considers sandy feet and a hastily thrown on cover-up exemplary dinner attire.

Crystal Coast, North Carolina

The Outer Banks may be first to come to mind when daydreaming about a North Carolina beach trip, but the Crystal Coast has all the same natural beauty and laidback beach town swagger with far fewer crowds. Also known as the Southern Outer Banks, this 85-mile stretch of shoreline starts at Cape Lookout and Harkers Island in the east and traverses across the barrier island and mainland until reaching its terminus at Cape Carteret in the west. Consisting of 12 distinct communities, travelers will have their pick of places to plan a trip around. The historic fishing village of Beaufort is a great spot for those who love a charming downtown, easy access to the water, and cozy inns. Meanwhile, Emerald Isle is exactly the type of uncommercialized beach town that inspires nostalgia. There are 12 miles of public beaches, plentiful bicycle trails, and oceanfront houses in all sizes waiting to host your crew

St. Michaels, Maryland

Coastal towns are a given in the summertime, and Maryland’s Eastern Shore has some of the best bayside villages anywhere. Just an hour and a half’s drive from Washington D.C. is St. Michaels , a favorite weekend escape for city dwellers hoping for a slower pace. Stroll the walkable and historic downtown that’s lined with Victorian-era buildings that now house boutiques, restaurants, and cozy inns. There’s lots to do in this busy, buzzy community on the Chesapeake Bay, but two not to miss are a sunset sail and a crab dinner. Crab season runs from April through September and sailing season starts at the same time and goes until November, so summer is high season for both.   

St. Louis, Missouri

Make your “Meet Me in St. Louis” dreams come true with a trip to the Gateway of the West. St. Louis may seem a surprising choice for a summertime trip, but when you consider its range of amenities and activities (many of which are free), as well as its excellent if not underestimated dining scene , it’s easy to jump on the train. Outdoor spaces are gorgeous and plentiful in this city. Citygarden combines lush greenspace with internationally acclaimed sculptures while Forest Park serves as the city’s gigantic backyard. (Did you know it’s actually 500 acres larger than Central Park?) Some of its highlights include the Saint Louis Art Museum , Saint Louis Science Center , and the Saint Louis Zoo —all of which are entirely free to guests.

Norfolk, Virginia

Go the opposite direction of traffic by heading away from the coast and popular Virginia Beach and toward Norfolk, located just 25 minutes inland. The historic waterfront town is home to the world’s largest naval base and that influence has created an incredibly diverse and multicultural scene in everything from food to art. After touring the USS Wisconsin, the largest battleship ever built by the US Navy, explore some of the town’s other gems, including the Chrysler Museum of Art , the Hermitage Museum & Gardens , and the up-and-coming NEON District , known for its vibrant murals and street art.

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12 Summer Destinations That Are Perfect for Couples

From the Adirondacks to the Serengeti, these idyllic escapes set the scene for romance.

Traveling is one of the most enriching things you can do in your lifetime — and it's even better with a partner. Taking a trip together is a milestone in any relationship, kind of like moving in together, getting a pet, or shopping for furniture at Ikea. Seeing your partner in an unfamiliar place can tell you a lot about who they are as a person. Many couples consider taking a trip together as a way to maintain the spark in their relationship or even an important step before getting married.

Getting out of your comfort zone can lead to an even deeper bond, especially if you're in the first years of your relationship. Travel helps you form better lines of communication and find ways to compromise, but the best reason to travel together is more simply the memories you’ll make. If you're ready to start planning your romantic getaway, here are 12 places we suggest going with your significant other.

Banff National Park, Canada

The best part of Canada has to be its gorgeous natural landscapes. You and your partner can get your fill of awe-inspiring mountains and dazzling blue lakes in Banff National Park , Alberta's crown jewel. Spend a weekend on one of the area's most stunning bodies of water at the romantic Fairmont Château Lake Louise , where you can start a hike or rent a kayak steps from the hotel. Don't miss a sunrise at Moraine Lake, too, which has its own incredible trails. In the picturesque ski town of Banff, you'll find all the amenities you need as well as another grand Fairmont property with a regal feel.

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

Gorgeous white cliffside buildings with bright blue roofs that perfectly compliment the ocean below? Count yourselves in. Santorini is a romantic oasis and a stunning place to watch the sunset, perhaps best seen from a private cruise or near Oia Castle. While you're there, take time to relax with your significant other in the bubbling waters of Nea Kameni, a hot spring on a volcano.

Hop on a motorbike for a thrilling adventure in Thailand's bustling capital, shop at a floating market on the outskirts of the city, and spend every day of your vacation devouring fresh and delicious Thai food. Foodie couples will especially love tasting the near-infinite variety of flavors from smoking street stands, hip vegan eateries, and locals-only dives. Have a spiritual experience together at Wat Pho, then settle into a luxurious hotel like Akara Bangkok , which has a rooftop pool with epic views of the city.

Beautiful architecture, a rich history, and plenty of arts and culture await you and your partner in London. Make memories on a self-guided walking tour of famous landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square, then stop for high tea and Champagne somewhere glamorous like Hotel Café Royal . If you want to get away from the crowds in the city, you can always take a tour to see the vibrant, green fields and charming villages in the countryside.

Tulum, Mexico

Go snorkeling in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, swim in the cenote (a natural sinkhole formed in the limestone bedrock), or hike the nearby Mayan ruins. Tulum's white-sand beaches are primed for romantic picnics and evening strolls. Splash out on a luxurious hotel or resort to celebrate your love — preferably one with an on-site spa or packages just for couples.

You and your partner won’t find a more adventurous vacation than a safari. Visit a conservation site or wildlife park in Tanzania to see and learn about local wildlife from elephants to giraffes and lions. Many tour operators that offer safaris also have education programs where you can learn about conservation efforts. Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the area, where a Four Seasons property provides comfy accommodations right next to an animal watering hole.

The Adirondacks, New York

Immerse yourselves in the nature of The Adirondacks, a clean-air oasis less than a five-hour drive from New York City. You can pitch a tent, breathe in the mountain air, and gaze up at the stars through the canopy of evergreen trees. The six million-acre Adirondack Park has places to camp, but for a little more comfort book a stay in one of the cozy lakeside inns or chalets, complete with your own in-room fireplace.

Iceland may be on the chillier side most of the time, but it’s a proverbially hot destination for couples looking for a unique vacation. You and your partner can soak in geothermal spas at the Blue Lagoon , watch the glow of the northern lights, and enjoy a session in one of the many saunas. Beholding the dreamy landscapes together is special, and the Land of Fire and Ice isn't even too difficult to get to despite how otherworldly it looks. A direct flight from NYC to Reykjavik takes under six hours.

Hakone, Japan

Visit Hakone from late March to mid-April to see the cherry trees in bloom. There aren't as many here as there are in Kyoto, but it does have several spots for seeing the pink blossoms that pop in spring. Another reason to plan your couple's vacation in Hakone is the abundance of hot springs. Take in the natural beauty of the Japanese landscape while absorbing the healing waters on a nice day trip away from the city. You can also visit Mount Fuji or the Hakone Shrine.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The entire country of Italy is the epitome of a romantic destination, but the gorgeous seaside villages of the Amalfi Coast are perfect for people who want a mix of beaches, history, and cultural wonders. Visit famous sites like the Emerald Grotto, medieval churches, museums, gardens, and natural stone streets. Sip limoncello alfresco at a cliffside haunt and go for leisurely strolls along the Mediterranean Sea for quality couple time.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its “fairy chimneys” — tall, narrow spires of rock peppering the landscape. There are also cave churches, homes carved into the rock, and more that tourists like to admire from a bird's-eye view. Hands down the most romantic way to see Cappadocia is by hot air balloon . If you’re looking for a truly magical experience to share with your significant other, this is the place.

What better place to ignite your passion for one another than the City of Love? Paris is packed with bakeries slinging fresh pastries and baguettes, museums with world-famous art on their walls, and theaters putting on burlesque. Claim two chairs at one of the many sidewalk cafes and people-watch while sipping espresso together, and tick off must-dos like visiting the Louvre and snapping a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower.

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Affordable summer vacations 2024: how and where to travel for less.

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Monte Argentario in Tuscany, Italy—one of the cheapest destinations to head this summer?

As Google reveals that one of its most popular travel search trends is currently 'cheap summer vacations', there are lots of ways that travelers can find ideas to travel for less.

This is particularly important as Bloomberg reports that the post-pandemic travel boom, merged with curbs on hotel construction, overtourism and restrictions on Airbnb in many cities, is sending hotel rates sky high, especially in Europe.

It's also clear that travelers might be feeling the pinch. Vacasa, the home rental platform found that while 4th July and Memorial Day will be the big summer travel weekends, its poll suggests that some people have shifted their travel plans or planning behavior to be more budget conscious (81% of respondents), driven significantly by higher cost of living and inflation (74%).

Ways To Find Cheap Summer Vacations

Bloomberg recommends ignoring Instagram feeds for overhyped, over-expensive destinations and instead hitting places under the social radar for cheap summer vacations —in Italy, this might be the picturesque Costiera Cilentana, an hour from the Amalfi coast or the stylish but under-developed peninsula of Monte Argentario, just 90 minutes from Rome's Fiumicino airport.

If Italy still seems like too much on the beaten European track, Romania's travel star has been rising for a while, hot on the heels of the much-beloved (and still relatively cheap) Albania .

‘Ghost Of Tsushima’ Is Already Flooded With Negative Reviews On Steam

This is a big deal congress suddenly hurtling toward a crucial crypto vote that could blow up the price of bitcoin ethereum and xrp, netflix s best new overlooked action movie is a must watch.

There are also alternatives to the hotel for cheap summer vacations. Bloomberg reports that European hotel rates have increased 50% since 2019, according to market researcher CoStar Group, so maybe a boat would be better value.

Alternatively, HomeExchange, the home swap website, allows members unlimited exchanges for only $220 per year, meaning you can travel relatively cheaply but also visit places that might not be quite so crowded this summer.

The U.K's Telegraph also advocates finding some of the nicest youth hostels or staying in a mountain bothy in Britain —these are remote shelters in some of the most breathtaking hills and woods across the U.K. that are free to use for just an annual subscription of $32 from The Mountain Bothies Association. There are similar refuge schemes across Europe in the most spectacular places—many also run a basic menu for breakfast and dinner.

Change your mode of travel for cheap summer vacations. Though there are cheaper ways to fly (the London to New York route remains one of the most competitive, if you are available to fly at any time) but one of the most inexpensive ways to travel on holiday this summer might be by train.

The Telegraph lists several examples, notably Eurostar tickets if you book a long time in advance (around $50 one-way)—it's sometimes easier to find deals if you book to Brussels and not London to Paris. The 51-hour rail journey from Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California can be had for just under $100 if booked in advance.

Inter-railing across Europe can be cost-effective or you can take the train on a 28-hour, 1,300-mile journey from New Delhi to Goa for just $13 (first class is only $67)—and it can cost less than a dollar to travel across parts of the Himalayas.

Change your mode of finance for cheap summer vacations. One final way of limiting the damage is to use multi-trip travel insurance (if you travel often) and definitely go for a bank card that doesn't add on charges for overseas use and find one that charges lower fees when transfering between different exchange rates.

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Interesting Facts

10 Best States for a Summer Road Trip

Posted: May 19, 2024 | Last updated: May 19, 2024

Summer road trips evoke a sense of adventure and freedom, a chance to explore the open road and discover hidden gems along the way. While some states boast iconic routes and destinations, others might surprise you with their diverse landscapes, cultural attractions, and unexpected delights.

Let’s be real, not every state is created equal when it comes to road trip potential. Some have smoother roads, more scenic byways, and a wider variety of attractions to keep you entertained on those long drives. Others might leave you with achy backs from bumpy highways and a distinct lack of cell service.

So, let’s dive into the 10 states that consistently rank high for their road trip appeal. It’s important to note that some of these more Southern states (aka the desert) will be extra hot in summer and require careful planning and preparation to avoid overheating- of the car and yourself!

This Pacific Northwest gem consistently tops road trip rankings. Highway 101 , the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, winds its way along Oregon’s rugged coastline, offering breathtaking views of sea stacks, beaches, and charming seaside towns.

The state boasts diverse landscapes, from lush forests to volcanic mountains. Explore Crater Lake National Park, the deepest lake in the US, or drive the scenic Columbia River Gorge with its numerous waterfalls and hiking trails.

2. North Carolina

From the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the sun-drenched Outer Banks, North Carolina offers diverse terrain and attractions for every kind of traveler. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic drive, winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views and access to charming towns like Asheville and Boone.

History buffs can explore the historic sites of the American Revolution, while foodies will delight in the state’s barbecue and seafood specialties. The Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands, boast pristine beaches, lighthouses, and even wild horses.

Home to five national parks, Utah is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Arches National Park, with its iconic Delicate Arch, Canyonlands National Park’s otherworldly rock formations, and Zion National Park’s stunning canyons and waterfalls, are just a few of the treasures waiting to be discovered.

Beyond the natural beauty, Utah’s unique culture and history offer plenty to explore. Visit Salt Lake City, the state’s capital, to learn about Mormon history and culture, or take a scenic drive through Monument Valley, where towering sandstone buttes create an iconic American landscape.

4. California

The Golden State is synonymous with road trips, thanks to its legendary Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway), which winds its way along the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning coastal views. But California offers much more than just beaches.

Explore the majestic Yosemite National Park, drive through the ancient sequoia trees in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, or venture into the otherworldly landscapes of Death Valley (although better in a cooler shoulder season). California’s diverse culture, thriving cities, and eclectic small towns offer endless opportunities for exploration.

This desert state isn’t just about cacti and scorpions. Sure, those exist, but so do towering red rock canyons, pine-forested mountains, and even the chance to stand on the edge of the Grand Canyon . Route 66 , that iconic highway of Americana, winds its way through the state, offering a taste of nostalgia along with those desert vistas.

Don’t limit yourself to the obvious. Explore the ghost town of Jerome, hike among ancient cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument, or soak in the healing waters of Sedona’s natural springs.

6. Colorado

Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise , with mountain ranges begging to be explored. Drive the scenic Peak to Peak Highway, winding through Rocky Mountain National Park, or venture onto the Million Dollar Highway with its heart-stopping views and hairpin turns.

Beyond the natural splendor, quirky mountain towns offer breweries, art galleries, and that laid-back Colorado vibe. Don’t forget about the delicious food scene, from farm-to-table fare to some of the best craft beer in the country.

7. New Mexico

New Mexico is a unique blend of cultures, showcasing Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway takes you through historic mining towns, artist communities, and the stunning landscapes of the high desert.

Explore the ancient ruins of Chaco Canyon, the otherworldly White Sands National Park, or the quirky art installations of Meow Wolf in Santa Fe . Don’t miss the chance to try authentic New Mexican cuisine – it’s not just about the green chile !

Big Sky Country lives up to its name. Montana’s vast prairies, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Drive the scenic Beartooth Highway, considered one of the most beautiful drives in America, or explore Glacier National Park with its breathtaking glaciers and abundant wildlife.

Montana isn’t just about nature. Charming small towns like Bozeman and Missoula offer breweries, live music, and a taste of Western hospitality.

Get ready for a true Western adventure ! Wyoming boasts iconic national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton, where you can witness geysers erupting, majestic mountains reflecting in pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife like bison, elk, and bears.

The state also has a rich cowboy culture, with rodeos, Western-themed towns, and a slower pace of life that’s hard to resist.

10. Washington

From the Olympic Peninsula’s rainforests to the Cascade Mountains’ alpine meadows and the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington offers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Drive the scenic North Cascades Highway for stunning mountain vistas, explore Olympic National Park’s rainforests and rugged coastline, or visit the charming San Juan Islands accessible by ferry.

Washington’s unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication makes it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the best of both worlds on their road trip. Plus, the state’s thriving culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and award-winning wines, is not to be missed.

15 Best States to Explore This Summer and Ditch the Extreme Heat

Most people love summer and the excuse it gives us to finally ditch the heavy jackets and wear light dresses and shirts. While the heat is welcome in some areas, it can be unforgiving in some states. The good thing is that you can chase the cooler states and enjoy summer without getting roasted to medium rare.

16 Best Small Towns to Visit in the Western US

Get ready to pack those bags and channel those pioneer vibes! The iconic Wild West is beckoning with its towering mountains, sun-drenched deserts, and echoes of cowboys and gold rushes. Beyond the bustling metropolises and tourist hot spots, the Western United States is dotted with charming small towns that feel like stepping into a different era. These gems might be lesser-known, but they offer rich histories, breathtaking natural beauty, quirky attractions, and that welcoming small-town vibe that’s becoming increasingly rare.

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations.

◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.

◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”