As the summer season approaches, it’s time to start planning your next adventure in the United States. With its vast and diverse landscapes, the country offers a plethora of incredible destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. In this blog series, we will be exploring some of the top summer destinations in the United States, guiding you through captivating locations that are perfect for creating lasting memories.
From sun-soaked beaches to awe-inspiring national parks, the United States has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s a destination that will cater to your interests.
So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a summer adventure of a lifetime. Here are our top picks for summer getaways in the United States.
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Acadia, Maine
Recommended by James of Travel Collecting
Acadia National Park and the surrounding area is the perfect summer destination. The islands and peninsulas of the park are surrounded by a beautiful rocky shoreline with the woods going right up to the edge. If you like getting out on the water, you can kayak around the shoreline, stopping off at beaches along the way, and exploring tiny coves and bays. To get further out, take a sailing trip around the nearby islands, or hop on the public ferry to the nearby Cranberry Islands, where you can visit quintessential New England fishing villages.
Inside the park, don’t miss Jordan Boathouse and their delicious popovers (a local specialty), smothered in butter and jam, and served al fresco with sensational views of the pond and The Bubbles.
If you like to be active, there are dozens of hiking trails to the tops of the many hills in the park. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. There are also miles of former carriage roads throughout the park that you can walk or cycle on.
To cool off after all that activity, head to the beach on Echo Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in US national parks, or the saltwater Sand Beach.
All of these activities make summer the perfect time to visit Acadia! The lovely town of Bar Harbor is just outside the main entrance to the park and makes a great place to stay and eat. The Travelin Lobster is one of several lobster shacks to try freshly caught local lobster. For a classic national park’s experience, stay at the historic Asticou Inn in nearby Northeast Harbor.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is one of the best summer destinations in the United States due to it’s cooler weather and beautiful nature. Located on Aquidneck Island the average temperature is cooler than mainland New England due to the breeze of the ocean. Whether you enjoy taking in history, admiring nature, or eating incredible food – there are plenty of things to do in Newport for any traveler.
Take a walk along the stunning three and a half mile Cliff Walk for some incredible views. There are numerous parking areas so if you’re short on time you do not have to do the whole thing. Right next to the Cliff Walk is the beautiful Breakers Mansion. The original Breakers was built in 1885, but burned down the same year. The one standing today was built in 1892 and owned by Cornelius Vanderbilt. Today, the house is a designated a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public. Plan your visit to the Breakers here.
Wander through downtown and get some unique souvenirs. There are plenty of places to eat nearby as well. The Black Pearl requires reservations, but is known for its incredible fresh seafood. To appease your sweet tooth, stop by The Cookie Jar – they have dozens of freshly baked homemade cookies!
Lake Placid, New York
Recommended by Carla of Travel by Carla Vianna
Lake Placid is a lakeside getaway in upstate New York known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures. Its location in the midst of the Adirondack Mountains makes it ideal for hiking, especially in the spring and summer. The area surrounding Lake Placid is home to some of the best hikes in the state. When the weather warms and Mirror Lake melts, you can find visitors from all over the Northeast enjoying lake activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Mirror Lake, located in the center of town, is the perfect place to stay on a visit to Lake Placid. Most visitors stay near Main Street, where you’ll find plenty of cute shops, restaurants and bars. I particularly loved my stay at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, which has rooms right on the lake. The hotel has a private beach and offers free paddleboard and kayak rentals to its guests. It’s the best way to enjoy the best that Lake Placid has to offer. Don’t forget to grab breakfast at Saranac Sourdough, a local mainstay serving up some delicious sourdough pancakes and homemade bread. For dessert, head over to Emma’s Creamery, an iconic 50’s style ice cream parlor near the Golden Arrow.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Lance & Lauran of Travel Addicts
One of the best destinations to visit in the summer in the US is also one of the most historic. When the weather turns warm, the country’s history comes alive in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This was the birthplace of America, the headquarters for General George Washington, the signing of the Constitution, and the first capital of the country. Philadelphia is where it all started. Be sure to spend at least two days in Philadelphia for the full experience.
Spend a day visiting the historical sites in Center City. Start by visiting the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Carpenter’s Hall at the Independence National Historical Park. Then head by Betsy Ross’ house, see Benjamin Franklin’s old haunts and soak up all the ambiance in Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest street in America. Walking around the city, you’ll be surrounded by the history of the country’s earliest days.
But Philadelphia isn’t a relic of the past. It’s a lively city full of parks, gardens, and universities. Grab a quick lunch in the food hall at the historic Bourse Exchange. And then enjoy a casual afternoon on one of the piers in the Delaware River in their pop-up beer gardens and watching the boats on the river. From the hammocks at Spruce Street Harbor Park to the artsy ruins of the Cherry Street Pier, you’ll find food and drink to relax.
Philadelphia is home to some of the best restaurants in America. From Amada to Zahav and everywhere in between, you’ll find some great grub. Other standouts also include Buddakan and Vedge. To minimize commuting time to your hotel, stay downtown in the Center City area. The hotels near the Convention Center are centrally located and offer good transportation options in the city.
Ocean City, Maryland
Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise
If 10 miles of white sandy beach sounds like the perfect setting for a summer vacation, head to Ocean City, Maryland! In addition to popular beach activities like swimming, surfing, jet skiing, stand-up paddling, and kayaking, Ocean City offers pier fishing and chartered boats for deep water fishing. It is the White Marlin capital of the world after all!
Hours of entertainment can be had day or night on the 3-mile boardwalk complete with amusement park, souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants. Try one of the famous local snacks: a bucket of Thrasher’s French Fries with malt vinegar, Dumser’s Ice Cream, or Fisher’s Caramel Popcorn. However, in this area, you should also eat Maryland Blue Crab. Steamed crabs at Hooper’s and/or Waterman’s is highly recommended!
Just minutes from Ocean City you will find the Assateague Island National Seashore with miles of nature trails, 2 herds of wild horses, and over 300 species of birds. The beach here is pristine even though there’s an area for 4-wheel driving on the sand. Also nearby, the neighboring town of Berlin, provides a charming downtown full of antique shops and galleries. If this sounds more to your liking than the bustling beach, stay at the historic Atlantic Hotel, which also has an excellent restaurant. Otherwise, an oceanfront hotel like the Cambria in Ocean City will work nicely.
Travel Tip: Be sure to bring your eco-friendly sunscreen and your sand-free Tesalate towel!
Lake James, North Carolina
Recommended by Alison of Exploration Solo
Situated 30 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Lake James is one of the best summer vacation spots in North Carolina. Hedged between the towns of Nebo and Linville, the lake offers plenty of ways to stay cool while having fun.
Grab a kayak and start your day with a sunrise paddle on blue water, then head to the marina and rent a boat for a day of water skiing. Nearby Lake James State Park offers several hiking and mountain biking trails. There’s also a beach area where you can catch a few rays or go swimming for a small fee. When it’s time to break away from the water, head to the mountains for the elevation and cool breezes. The Blue Ridge Parkway and several small towns like Black Mountain are 30 minutes away.
Enjoy nature and save a little money with a campsite at Paddy’s Creek campground, or splurge with a beautiful rental home at Camp Lakes James. After working up an appetite, check out Countryside BBQ for some famous North Carolina pulled pork and cheesecake, or head to Bob’s donuts for a special treat. Lake James has everything you need for summer.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Recommended by Me of Directionally Challenged Traveler
The Outer Banks is one of the most beautiful summer destinations in the United States. The barrier islands are 175 miles long, meaning there are plenty of things to do! There are 15 wonderful towns of the Outer Banksw, so you’ll find one that fits your travel style. Well known for the beautiful beaches – it’s the perfect summer destination if you want sand between your toes!
History buffs can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn about the history of flight and pay homage to the two men who changed travel forever. Step back in time at Roanoke Island – a 25 acre historic site. Nature lovers would enjoy a trip to Corolla to spot the wild horses of the Outer Banks. These horses were brought over from Spain and have been freely roaming the island for hundreds of years. There are five lighthouses on the islands as well – from the red brick Currituck lighthouse to the large Cape Hatteras lighthouse down south.
A beach vacation isn’t complete without doing a water activity like fishing, kayaking, jet skiing or even paragliding! Indulge your sweet tooth at the famous Duck Donuts. You have to order the donuts at least a day before as they are made to order – but you can’t go wrong with fresh hand-made donuts!
Charleston, South Carolina
Recommended by Anna of Paddling Space
Charleston is a fantastic place to visit in any season but summer is especially fun because of all the beaches that have opened and the tourist season is in full swing. In normal times this means lots of festivals and markets to visit!
Folly Beach is the most popular beach in the area and a great spot to lay out in the sun. Charleston is known for the culinary scene so be sure to take a food tour while you’re there.
Ghost Tours are also popular because so many buildings in the city are considered to be haunted. If you want to get outside the city for a bit then check out Charleston Outdoor Adventures that offers kayaking tours through the marsh.
If you plan on exploring downtown for most of your trip then there is no better place to stay than The Mills House. However, if you are on a budget then check out hotels in Mt. Pleasant instead – it’s a 20 minute drive over the Ravenel Bridge.
There is no shortage of incredible places to eat in town. Make sure to go by Poogan’s Porch for lunch or hit Brown Dog Deli for incredible food at a great price. Husk or The MacIntosh are great places for dinner.
If you want something super fancy then go to Halls Chophouse. Incredibly expensive but worth every dime. For a great dessert cafe stop by Kaminsky’s. You won’t be disappointed!
Savannah, Georgia
Recommended by Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles
Enchanting Savannah, Georgia has much to offer, from its decadent dishes, to its alluring architecture, to its haunted history. Summer can be one of the best times to explore, as crowds tend to thin and visitors can enjoy discounted hotels and flight deals. Travelers should consider a stay at one of the six properties in The Historic Inns of Savannah collection. Each offers a top-rated experience and a centralized location.
Although temperatures heat up in summertime, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city while staying cool. Visitors can take advantage of a fresh breeze on a trolley tour or soak up the refreshing mist aboard a Georgia Queen river cruise.
Savannah is also a short 20-minute drive from Tybee Island, a fun city excursion. Here, travelers can visit the state’s oldest lighthouse and take an invigorating dip at the nearby beach.
Alternatively, for the land dwellers, Savannah offers a host of museums and historic homes to tour, including the Owens-Thomas House and Mercer-Williams House.
In addition, those seeking paranormal pleasures can take an evening ghost tour. After exploring, visitors can enjoy a refreshing cocktail and skyline views at Peregrin before heading off to dinner at The Olde Pink House.
North Shore, Minnesota
Recommended by Jenny of Global Game Plan
Minnesota’s North Shore is a beautiful vacation destination on Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake. While all seasons offer fun things to do, summer is an amazing time to visit for a weekend getaway or longer trip. With access to exciting outdoor activities ranging from fishing, kayaking and sailing to biking and hiking through popular state parks filled with gorgeous waterfalls, there is plenty to do for families, a romantic vacation or a solo adventure. You can stop at a number of charming small towns as you make your way up the 145+ miles of shoreline from Duluth, home of the iconic aerial lift bridge, to the Canadian border.
Stay overnight at the Beacon Pointe Resort (Duluth), Larsmont Cottages or Superior Shores Resort (Two Harbors) or the Best Western Plus Superior Inn (Grand Marais) so you can take in a memorable view of Lake Superior from your room.
Whether you’re in the mood for smoked salmon from Northern Waters Smokehaus, drinking a cold beer at Castle Danger Brewing, grabbing a picnic to go from Cedar Coffee Company or enjoying a slice at Betty’s Pies, you are sure to find some tasty local treats on your scenic drive up the North Shore.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Recommended by Martin of Travel Explorator
Wisconsin Dells is a city in Wisconsin famous for its indoor and outdoor waterparks. It’s home to Noah’s Ark, which is considered the largest water park in the United States. Even though the waterparks are responsible for the vast amount of visitors to the city, there are plenty of other things to do as well. You can visit the local attractions downtown that consist of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not shop, Wizard Quest — an interactive scavenger hunt — and plenty of others. There are also many different type of shops in the area to buy souvenirs from too.
When it comes to living arrangements, there is a large selection of hotels you can stay at in Wisconsin Dells. If you plan on spending most of your time in the waterparks, each of them will have its own resorts. Otherwise, you can stay at some of the nearby hotels. If you’re staying by the waterparks, there are plenty of places to eat around the area with diverse food choices to try. If you’re feeling Mexican food, Jose’s Authentic Mexican Restaurant is a top choice. If you’re feeling the typical American grill, you can’t go wrong with Monk’s Bar & Grill.
Although the state and city is cold for most of the year, Wisconsin Dells makes for the perfect warm destination during the summer with an average high temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit. There is no better way to enjoy the hot summer temperature than at fun waterparks.
Boulder, Colorado
Recommended by Kiersten of Hiking in my Flip Flops
There is no better place for a summer getaway than to Boulder Colorado. Once the unpredictable spring weather has passed, the summers are full of sunshine and downtown is bustling with activity. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, an art lover, or a foodie, Boulder has everything for a weekend – or longer- itinerary. At the base of the famous flatirons is Chautauqua Park, pick up one of the trailheads that lead up into the flatirons for epic views of the city. Or take a stroll around the historic buildings, stopping for lunch at the Chautauqua Dining Hall.
Almost everywhere you go in Boulder, there are street murals hidden in plain sight. Find curated collections at The Dairy Art Center or Boulder Museum of Contemporary Arts, which is conveniently located right at the Boulder Farmers Market, often tagged as one of the best farmers markets in the country. Boulder is also a foodie’s paradise. Pick up the perfect picnic at Cured and have lunch along the Boulder Creek while watching people test their rafting skills down the creek. Many award winning restaurants are found along Pearl St, the outdoor pedestrian mall, but don’t miss the hidden gems right off Pearl. Bohemian Biergarten is a favorite, and Avant Food & Beverage offers epic Pearl St and flatiron views.
While in town, stay at one of the local hotels like the historic Hotel Boulderado, the outdoorsy-themed Basecamp Hotel, or the luxurious St. Julien Hotel.
Black Hills National Forest
The Black Hills National Forest is very much an under-the-radar destination but that doesn’t mean it’s not highly worth a visit! Situated on the South Dakota/Wyoming border, this is the perfect area to base yourself this summer.
Within just a short driving distance of each other, there are no less than six historic sights, monuments, memorials, and national parks found in the vicinity of the Black Hills.
For those interested in Cold War history, a must-visit attraction is the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. In this fascinating place, you can learn all about the development of nuclear weapons during the Cold War. You also get to take a look into the lives of the people that used to work (and live) Minuteman Missile.
If you are more interested in outdoor fun, head over to Sheridan Lake. At this scenic lake you can go hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and even waterskiing! Lake Sheridan is a nice place to base yourself and if you like camping you’re in luck. Sheridan Lake Resort is situated right at the lake and offers lots of facilities. If you don’t have a campervan or tent, you can also rent one of the (very affordable) cabins.
Another place to visit when you are exploring the amazing Black Hills National Forest is of course Mount Rushmore. Take a stroll along the Avenue of Flags and walk the short and easy Presidential Trail which brings you up close with the stern stone faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
South Dakota Road Trip
Recommended by Lisa of Planning Away
One of the best summer destinations that might not automatically come to your mind is South Dakota. The beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota is the perfect summer destination.
As you drive through South Dakota you may see signs for Wall Drug Store advertising “Free Water -150 miles ahead” or “5 cent coffee -75 miles ahead” This may lead you to ask “What the heck is Wall Drug Store?” It is actually really funny, this drugstore started offering free water in the early 1900’s to get people into their store. They put signs along the main highway. This tactic worked and still works today! Wall Drug Store brings in 20,000 visitors a day with over 2 million each year. Wall Drug Store offers more than just water and coffee today, it is a restaurant and tourist shopping site.
Wall Drug Store is located very close to Badlands National Park. The Badlands has some amazing hikes but in the summer it is best to go early in the morning. Also located nearby is Mount Rushmore. Mount Rushmore is incredible. Most people imagine just pulling over and taking a picture and continuing on their way, but once you arrive you quickly realize that Mount Rushmore is amazing. There is a museum and hiking trails located on-site.
One of the most beautiful scenic drives in the area is located at Custer State Park just 40 minutes south of Mount Rushmore. It is most famous for the Needle Highway Tunnel. The tunnel is very narrow and “fun” to drive through. There are over 1300 buffalo at Custer State Park! You could spend a week exploring Custer State Park. Camping or Airbnb is a great idea in this area. South Dakota is a great summer destination with plenty to see and do!
Padre Island, Texas
Recommended by Bruna of Roaming the USA
Padre Island is by far one of the most fantastic beach towns in Texas, and you can find a pleasant summer destination in this little paradise.
The weather is quite comfortable but has pretty warm highs.
But don’t worry. If it’s too warm for you, take a swim in the calm and clean waters surrounding this barrier off the southern coast of Texas.
For thrill-seekers, kiteboarding and windsurfing are some of the sports you can practice while feeling the sea breeze. What’s not to love, right?
If you prefer something more laid-back, beyond chilling on the beach, camping, and picnicking, you can bird- and dolphin-watch on this incredible place. The opportunities are really infinite here.
Looking for a place to stay? Then you will want to check out La Copa Inn, which is a top-rated beachfront hotel in South Padre Island. And for wild-caught seafood and delicious steaks, head over to Sea Ranch, a colorful eatery with marina views. It definitely does not disappoint!
Orlando, Florida
Recommended by Trijit of BudgetTravelBuff
Although there is no off-season in Orlando as this Florida city gets sunshine throughout the year, but if you visit Orlando in summer, it will offer plenty of tourist attractions and outdoor activities beyond its popular theme parks.
Still, Orlando is incomplete without visiting Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Walt Disney World park is one of the best family attractions in the country. This massive park covers 40 square miles and features like fairytale castles of Magic Kingdom, fun rides in Hollywood Studio, and safari trips in the Animal Kingdom. Universal Studios Orlando is another popular amusement park that features thrilling rides dedicated to Harry Potter, spectacular shows, and Wet’n’Wild where you and your family can cool off.
The theme parks in Orlando will definitely add up your summer vacation cost, but if you are looking for free attractions in Orlando, you won’t be disappointed. Visit Lake Eola located at the heart of downtown Orlando. Rent a swan-shaped paddle boat and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the lake and skyscraper building at the backdrop of the lake. Explore the Old Town in Kissimmee which is filled with old-fashioned shops, buildings, and restaurants. Enjoy the live music, different types of foods and lots of rides in the oldtown.
Orlando is one of the cheapest places to live in Florida, but it is not cheap if you plan to stay in a hotel near the theme parks. I will recommend staying in Crowne Plaza Hotel Orlando Downtown. Located in the downtown area, this hotel offers well-furnished comfortable rooms with an outdoor pool.
Honeymoon Island, Florida
Recommended by Paula of Paula Pins the Planet
Florida offers some of the best summer destinations in the United States, with great options for incredible beaches to choose from for a perfect vacation. If you are looking for an incredible, less touristy beach Honeymoon Island State Parkis a great place for outdoor lovers of any age as it offers many options like soaking in the sun, swimming, fishing, kayaking, biking, and hiking.
Honeymoon Island State Park is located in Tampa Bay area on Florida’s west coast, only 25-minutes from Clearwater. To visit this paradise, oyu pay a $8 entry fee and can enjoy a full day of many activities.
You can go enjoy the 4-miles of amazing beaches and a 3-mile hiking trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests. You can do a picnic in any of the designated areas, and also, go rent a kayak or take a ferry and visit the Caladesi Island, separated only a few minutes from the Honeymoon Island.
There is no option for accommodations inside Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island. But it is just a short distance driving from Clearwater or Dunedin, where you can find several options for accommodations.
Yellowstone National Park
Recommended by Deb of The Visa Project
Yellowstone National Park is one of those incredible places on earth where you create memories for a lifetime. While working in the US, I visited Yellowstone a few times and I still keep on wanting to go back.
For starters, it’s the oldest national park of the United States, home to a unique ecosystem of abundant wildlife, lush forests, raging rivers, wild valleys, geysers, and a lot more.
There is no dearth of things to do in Yellowstone. While there are many geysers, each more breath-taking than the other, the old Faithful is that iconic geyser that erupts every 90 minutes or so. Definitely worth a stop.
Stop at the Mammoth Hot Springs to see the breathtaking waterfall of white and orange stone.
Head to the Lamar Valley early morning or late evening to spot tons of wildlife, including bison, elks, wolves, pronghorn sheep. And if you are lucky, you would come across a bear or two. I always did.
Visit the Artist Point in the afternoon to have a sweeping view of the canyons and get that classic Yellowstone picture.
Summer is definitely one of the best times to visit Yellowstone since all the roads are accessible.
Zion National Park, Utah
Recommended by Aaren of What Do You Sea
From feeling small beneath the hundred-foot-high walls of the Narrows, to feeling your heart pounding as you conquer Angel’s Landing, Utah’s Zion National Park is one of the ULTIMATE summer destinations in the United States. Visiting in the summer months gives you access to all the top hikes in the park and fantastic weather to explore the trails and other National Parks in Utah.
While you’re here, you can cross off some serious bucket list hikes that are scattered above, inside, and around the magnificent Zion Canyon. My personal favorite trail is Observation Point, and once you pair this with other epic hikes like the two I mentioned above, the Narrows and Angel’s Landing, as well as Hidden Canyon, Emerald Pools, and The Subway to pack in your visit with the most awe-inspiring views.
Zion is best explored in a few days, so I recommend basing yourself inside the park or in the neighboring town of Springdale. Pitch your tent at the South or Watchmen Campgrounds if your summer adventure is a little more rugged. The Zion Lodge is perfect if you want an elevated stay inside the park, and the Under The Eaves Inn is perfect if you want to stay in a unique, historical 1930s Airbnb in the heart of Springdale.
Put this stop on your Utah National Parks road trip itinerary and experience the magic of the wild West!
Seattle, Washington
Recommended by Matt of West Coast Wayfarers
While it has a reputation for being gray and rainy, Seattle is at its best in the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry and the days are long thanks to its position in the northwest corner of the United States.
Spending a weekend in Seattle is a perfect amount of time to see the main sights while saving some time to explore some of the city’s best neighborhoods.
The two must-do traditional tourist attractions in Seattle are Pike Place Market (don’t miss Beecher’s Cheese and Ellenos Greek Yogurt), the Seattle Center, home of the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture. You’ll want to stay nearby, either in Belltown or Downtown Seattle, to put yourself in the perfect position for visiting both.
On top of those two, you’ll want to spend the rest of your time in Seattle exploring the many charming neighborhoods, like Capitol Hill. In Capitol Hill, you’ll find a wide range of bars, restaurants, and shopping that will delight even the most discerning foodies. Grab a shot of espresso at Espresso Vivace’s sidewalk bar (not at Starbucks), explore Elliot Bay Book Company to find your next read, indulge in ice cream at Molly Moon’s, a Seattle institution, and finish off your day with drinks at Footprint Wine Tap or Canon.
If you’re interested in a relatively easy urban hike, head to Discovery Park and hike along the coast down to West Point Lighthouse, where there’s often a resident bald eagle or two hanging around waiting patiently for their next meal.
San Diego, California
Recommended by Katie of La Jolla Mom
San Diego is one of the most popular summer destinations in the United States thanks to its 70 miles of coastline and pleasant sunshine. It doesn’t get humid as many other tropical destinations do during the summer months, so it’s easy to spend long days sightseeing and enjoying quintessential SoCal beach days.
Families, in particular, visit during school breaks because San Diego with kids is easy between its famous theme parks (like San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND California) and fun outdoor activities that include mild hikes, biking, learning how to surf, and other water sports. Those without little ones in tow enjoy the over 200 craft breweries (be sure to pair some suds with a fish taco, the city’s must-eat dish) or golfing courses like Torrey Pines, home to this year’s US Open PGA golf tournament. All ages enjoy the 16 museums, trails, and gardens in Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park.
Tourists tend to stay mostly in La Jolla or Coronado during the summer. Both communities border famous beaches and offer restaurants and shops within walking distance of popular hotels, like the historic Hotel del Coronado. It’s definitely wise to book summer accommodations as far in advance as possible to avoid peak season rates.
San Francisco, California
Recommended by Alice from Adventures of Alice
The beautiful hilly city of San Francisco, California is one of the trendiest travel destinations in America. San Francisco sits under a cloud of near constant fog (which the locals have nicknamed Karl), chilly winds and frequent rain, so if you’ve packed shorts and t-shirts for your trip here, you might want to rethink!
But despite the less than hot weather, many tourists still flock to San Francisco in the summer months. Why? To escape the heat. Temperatures in August are likely to reach highs of 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit) and the city is a little warmer in September when the average daytime temperature is 21 degrees (70 degrees Fahrenheit). However, compared to a lot of US States, it’s much more bearable and a comfortable temperature to be exploring the great outdoors.
One of the best things to do in San Francisco is take a visit to the city’s famous Golden Gate Bridge. I recommend walking it – it’ll take 1.5 hours at best (maybe more depending on the amount of photo stops you make) but it’s well worth it for the stunning views across the Bay area.
Also, make sure you don’t miss Fisherman’s Wharf and pay a visit to the adorable seals that call Pier 39 home, stroll the famous twists and turns of Lombard Street, climb to the top of Coit Tower and take a stroll through the Castro. If you have a little longer in San Fran, you could also take a trip to Yosemite National Park, one of the greatest parks in the USA
Alaska
Recommended by Agnes of The Van Escape
Summer is the perfect time to visit Alaska. The season is short, so June, July, and August are the best months to visit this largest US state. This is the perfect time for wildlife watching, bear viewing, mountain hikes, and kayaking or fishing tours.
The best places to stop on your Alaska road trip are Anchorage, Seward, Homer, Valdez, and Denali. You will find there the largest selection of hotels of all standards and numerous campaigns. But it is worth booking accommodation in advance. Due to the short season, Alaska is visited by many tourists in the summer.
Best things to do in Alaska in summer: In Denali National Park, take a guided bus tour through Denali Park Road, which allows you to spot lots of wildlife and admire the highest peak of North America. Another perfect idea is to take a flight tour over mountains with a glacier landing.
In Homer, visit Salty Dawg Saloon. The bar is known for the thousands of dollar bills signed by visitors and tacked to the walls. They serve great beer. But most of all, Homer is famous for delicious fresh oysters. Taste them in Homer Spit Oyster Bar. Homer is long known as The “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” so try to catch one during a boat fishing trip.
In Valdez, take a kayaking trip. Seward is the best for taking Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise, a great opportunity to admire Kenai Fjords National Park with sea lions and thousands of nesting seabirds, sea otters, and whales.
Pin “Best Summer Destinations in the US” for later
I’m planning a US road trip this summer, so I will definitely be considering these places! Thanks for putting this together!
I haven’t been to any of these spots in the states before, but I’ve always wanted to go on a cross-country road trip and stop off at some of the places on your list!
This list is so helpful! They really make us want to pack our bags and go!
Hopefully you can do that this year!!
This is such a great list! I study in the states and I will definitely save this list for my bucket list! Thanks for sharing! :))
Hope you have an amazing time!