Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start planning your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway, a mountain retreat, or a city break, the United States has something for everyone. But with so many destinations to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve asked some of the top travel writers to share their favorite summer locations in the USA. From the East Coast to the West Coast, and everywhere in between, these experts have wandered the country to find the most beautiful and exciting places to visit during the summer months.
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Ogunquit, Maine
Contributed by Sam at New England Wanderlust
Ogunquit in southern Maine is not only home to the state’s most beautiful beach, but it’s also one of the best beach towns in New England to explore. This small coastal town packs a punch when it comes to charm and gorgeous scenery, and also offers so much to do for everyone, including boat tours, fun shopping, and wonderful restaurants.
If you’re looking to head to the beach, you can walk to Ogunquit Beach from most places in town. This stretch of shoreline is about 3 miles long and has soft, pristine sand to play in. When you’re not at the beach, you definitely can’t miss walking Marginal Way, which is a paved pedestrian path that follows the dramatic rocky coastline and connects Ogunquit’s downtown to a cute little harbor called Perkins Cove (where most boat tours and sailing charters depart).
Since you’re in New England, you can’t leave Ogunquit without trying a real Maine lobster roll! The best ones in town can be found at Footbridge Lobster and Lobster Shack. For a memorable waterfront dining experience, be sure to book a table at Ogunquit Beach Lobster House.
Big Sur, California
Contributed by Charles McCool of McCool Travel
The magnificent Highway 1 / Pacific Coast Highway scenic drive through Big Sur is one of the world’s most famous road trips and has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, music videos, and, of course, billions of Instagram and Tik Tok posts. With sheer cliffs, majestic waterfalls, classic bridges, and spectacular sunsets, Big Sur offers several ooh and ahh moments during every one of its 90-plus miles.
The National Scenic Byway Foundation has named 57 All-American Roads and Big Sur has TWO of them. Convenient for us is that they connect to each other.
The 72-mile northern portion, from Carmel south to Ragged Point Vista, is called the Big Sur Coast Highway and is one of the top things to do in Monterey, California. It connects to the San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway, which runs from Ragged Point Vista south to Morro Bay. Big Sur highlights include Bixby Creek Bridge, Rocky Creek Bridge, Nepenthe, Rocky Point, Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur village, McWay Falls, and Point Lobos (which was called the “greatest meeting of land and water in the world”). But there are dozens of incredible viewpoints along the way so allow several hours to drive Big Sur. Look for animals in the water, such as sea otters, seals, and whales. And even in the summer, bring a sweatshirt or jacket. Yes, it can be chilly. Even in the summer.
San Diego, California
Contributed by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
Hailed as “America’s Finest City,” San Diego is one of the best destinations to spend your summer days! The California beach town is known for its balmy, salty air and cooler temperatures relative to most areas in California. And to encourage you further to visit this beautiful city, there are all kinds of things to do to keep you entertained!
For example, spend your days at one of the lovely beaches, surfing, swimming, or just lounging on the shore with a good book. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more active, you’ll find a few hiking trails at Torrey Pines State Reserve. And, of course, don’t forget to explore San Diego’s diverse culinary scene by trying out some of its iconic dishes like fish tacos and California burritos! So, if you’re looking for an ideal spot to relax or explore the outdoors, San Diego has it all.
Seattle, Washington
Contributed by Angela of Fitting in Adventure
Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a city that’s perfect for a summer escape. Whether you choose to stroll the nearby beaches, enjoy the thriving foodie scene or numerous outdoor activities, Seattle offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
The city’s location on the Puget Sound provides a great backdrop for exploring. Take a stroll along the Seattle waterfront and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. You can also explore the city’s unique neighborhoods. From the trendy boutiques and cafes of Capitol Hill to the historic architecture of Pioneer Square, there’s something for everyone in Seattle.
Food lovers will also appreciate Seattle’s diverse culinary scene. With fresh seafood and local produce, Seattle’s restaurants offer a unique dining experience that’s sure to delight your taste buds. And don’t forget to visit Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated farmers’ markets in the country.
For those who love the outdoors, Seattle is an ideal destination. And if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, grab a book and relax at one of the city’s many parks or beaches.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Contributed by Julie McCool of Fun in Fairfax VA
Summer is one of the best times to visit Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. A lush canopy of trees and higher elevations combine to provide a comfortable setting for great hikes, stunning views, and fun Ranger-led activities. The park is a popular getaway (or quick day trip) from steamy Washington DC, just 2 hours away.
All Shenandoah Park facilities are open in the summer, so visitors can learn, dine, and stay without leaving the park boundaries. For example, both Skyland Lodge and Big Meadows Lodge offer take-out and sit-down dining as well as a variety of hotel rooms and cabins. In addition, the park’s campgrounds put outdoor lovers close to excellent hikes including miles of the Appalachian Trail.
When summer weather gets hot and humid, there are fun places to cool down a short hike away. The Rose River Trail is one popular hike with swimming holes and cascades. Or get even cooler at nearby Luray Caverns, which is 54 degrees all year round.
Black Hills of South Dakota
Contributed by Caitlin of Twin Family Travels
The Black Hills of South Dakota is an incredible destination for a summer getaway. This region offers stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From hiking on trails through towering forests to exploring iconic sites such as Mount Rushmore, there are plenty of things to do and areas to explore to keep you busy.
There are many amazing attractions that can be found throughout the Black Hills area. One highlight is Custer State Park which features Sylvan Lake, iconic highways, and plenty of hiking trails. The Black Hills area is also home to numerous National Park sites including Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. If you are willing to drive a little further, Badlands National Park and Devils Tower National Monument are both worth visiting. In the Black Hills, you can take your pick of amazing places to visit.
Napa Valley, California
Contributed by Travel Today Work Tomorrow
Located in northern California wine country, Napa Valley is famously known for its rolling hills of vineyards, warm sunny days, exquisite wine, and thriving culinary scene. With its perfect summer weather and abundant outdoor activities, Napa has become one of the top destinations to visit during the summer months. The summer brings lots of fun festivals and events to wine country, including the popular music festival BottleRock and harvest season. Harvest season, or crush season, begins in August and is one of the best times of year in Napa.
Napa Valley has over 400 amazing wineries to choose from. Start your day of wine tasting with bubbles at the French-inspired chateau Domaine Carneros. Or explore the unique wine caves at Piazza Del Dotto and afterward enjoy their yummy brick oven sourdough pizzas with your wine tasting. In addition to wine, Napa Valley also offers a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking the Vine Trail, kayaking the Napa River, and shopping in the charming downtown areas. If you prefer to get some R&R, plan a spa day at one of the many luxurious hot springs resorts in Calistoga.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Contributed by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey
One of the best places to spend summer is Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It’s a great city in Lancaster County with a lot of things to do, many of which will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.
A favorite spot to visit in Lancaster is the Lancaster Central Market. Established in 1730, it’s the country’s oldest continuously operated public farmer’s market. There are over 60 local vendors, and you can find all kinds of food and household items. Just be sure to time your visit right; the market is open Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
History buffs should also visit Historic Rock Ford. The mansion once belonged to Revolutionary War General Edward Hand. There are guided tours and tickets including admission to the nearby John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery, which is housed in a re-constructed 18th-century bank barn. Something we found interesting is that the kitchen is still used and every third Sunday of the month, food is prepared using traditional methods of the time.
Lancaster has a lot of great cafes and restaurants in town. Two we recommend are Lancaster Brewing Company and Prince Street Café. Lancaster Brewing Company has been operating since 1995. They have produced over 22 different craft beers and won many awards, including medals at the 2013 World Beer Championship. Coffee connoisseurs will love Prince Street Café. They offer coffees, teas, and smoothies, as well as some light breakfast dishes.
The Rocky Mountains, Colorado
Contributed by Sierra Schmidt of Island + Alpine
The Colorado Rocky Mountains are the perfect place to spend the summer due to the gorgeous weather, incredible views, and so many things to do. Rocky Mountain National Park is located in the charming town in Estes Park, just north of Denver. With cute ice cream shops, beautiful accommodations, boutique shopping, and tasty restaurants, Estes Park is the perfect home base for exploring the mountains. With temperatures in the 70s (F) and refreshing afternoon rains, the Colorado Rockies provide a wonderful respite from high temperatures in other areas during the summer months.
Easy access to the park’s entrance will leave visitors with plenty of time to discover all that the park has to offer. Beautiful, easy hikes like Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Alberta Falls are must-do items on every Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary. Serious hikers will want to set out early in the mornings to see Long’s Peak, Sky Pond, and Chasm Lake as well. Trail Ridge Road is an incredible drive that takes visitors above the tree line to plenty of overlooks with stunning views. The Alpine Visitor’s Center has the highest elevation in the country and offers a well-stocked gift shop and snack bar. The evening is the perfect time to see wildlife in the park, so plan to stay after sunset to see elk, moose, and deer wandering the fields as the color changes in the summer sky.
Asheville, North Carolina
Contributed by Alanna from Periodic Adventures
One of the most underrated places to visit in the US in the summer is Asheville. Located in the mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is perfect for foodies, beer lovers, and those looking for a unique getaway.
One of the most popular must-dos is visiting the Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America owned by the Vanderbilt family. Not only will admission get you an audio tour of the home, but also access to their extensive gardens, conservatory, stables, shops, and even a wine tasting at their winery! There are over 80 breweries in the vicinity so be sure to add a few to your Asheville itinerary. Some favorites are Wicked Weed, Hi-Wire, and Highland Brewing Company. Finally, Asheville has incredible food including fusion tacos from White Duck Taco Shop, pie flights from Baked Pie Company, and melt-in-your-mouth biscuits from Biscuit Head.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Contributed By Julie of Family Trips and Travels
Cape Cod, MA is one of the best places to spend your summer. With over 500 miles of coastline, there are so many opportunities to explore and soak up the sun. Whether it’s catching a wave on the Atlantic side, kayaking in a quiet cove, or simply lounging on a bay-side beach with a good book, Cape Cod has something for everyone. Spend your summer exploring the 15 unique towns throughout the Cape. From fun and exciting Provincetown to quaint and upscale Chatham there truly is something for everyone.
During your stay make sure to try the many options for seafood! Fresh lobster rolls, clam chowder, and oysters straight from Wellfleet are just a few of the local delicacies that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Every summer the Cape Cod baseball league comes into town and is a time-honored tradition to catch one of these games at night while enjoying homemade ice cream cones! No matter what your style, Cape Cod will have something for everyone to enjoy.
Kanab, Utah
Contributed by Janae from Adventures With TuckNae
Kanab is one of the best places to spend summer due to the plentiful amount of amazing things to see and do in the area. It’s an adventure seeker’s paradise! Kanab is a popular stop between Zion National Park and Horseshoe Bend, and you should plan to spend at least two days exploring the surrounding area during your summer road trip.
Some top things to do in and near Kanab are ATVing at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, hiking through the mysterious Belly of the Dragon, and scrambling up rock cliffs to explore the Moqui Caves. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of great trails in the area, including Wire Pass, Toadstool Hoodoos, and Peekaboo Slot Canyon.
Summit County, Colorado
Contributed by Diane McAllister of Travel with Eli
With four ski resorts inside its boundary (Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and A-Basin), Summit County, Colorado is well known as a top winter destination. But, when the snow melts, the short summer in Summit County is magical.
Summit County is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains but only sixty-five miles from Denver. The outdoor scenery is stunning with colorful wildflowers, aspen and pine trees, cute mountain towns, and a high mountain lake, all surrounded by rugged mountains.
At 9,000 feet in elevation, Summit County is the perfect place to go in the summer to escape the heat. Not only is the weather perfect, but there are also so many incredible things to do in Summit County in the summer. Great hiking trails, miles of paved bike paths, kayaking and fishing on Lake Dillon, and outdoor concerts and festivals.
Each of the ski resorts also offers fun things to do in the summer. The Mountain Coaster at Copper Mountain, Peak 8 fun park in Breckenridge, the Arial Adventure Park at A-Basin, and mountain biking at Keystone.
Long-time Summit County locals have a saying “We moved here for the winters and stayed for the summers.” They are on to something!
Carson Valley, Nevada
Contributed by Angela of Fitting in Adventure
Tucked into the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Nevada, Carson Valley is a hidden gem that’s just waiting to be discovered. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history this area is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience something off the beaten path.
From hiking and biking to fishing and camping, you will find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in this picturesque valley. The rich history dates back to the days of the Wild West making Carson Valley a fascinating place to explore for history buffs, as well.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Contributed by Linda of Midwest Explored
“If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit this summer in the US then you cannot miss a trip to Mackinac Island.
After all, this enchanting island overlooks Lake Huron and can be found just off the coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Additionally, this place has a magical, old-world charm about it since the island is filled with Victorian-era homes and horse-drawn carriages that roll through the streets since no cars are allowed here.
So, after taking the ferry here from the mainland, be sure to enjoy all of the best things to do on Mackinac Island, including the Butterfly Conservatory, Fort Mackinac, and Arch Rock in Mackinac Island State Park.
Because summer is the perfect time to visit since the weather is pleasant and local businesses/hotels are all officially open for the busy summer season.
And while swimming in the lake’s cold water won’t be pleasant, all of the island’s top hotels come fully outfitted with heated pools. Therefore, you can book a room at the immortal Grand Hotel and go for a refreshing swim while enjoying the summer sun.”
The Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina
Contributed by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide
If you’re interested in exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina is an ideal place to start. Covering the western reaches of the state, the dynamic Blue Ridge region of NC encompasses numerous sub-ranges (including the Great Smoky Mountains, Black Mountains, and more), with more than 30 peaks that reach 6,000+ feet. These mountains are truly a nature lover’s paradise, with hundreds of amazing hiking trails, waterfalls, colorful wildflowers, and abundant birds and wildlife.
There are dozens of beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain towns in NC that are worthy of exploring. A short list of the best towns would include Asheville (a cultural hotbed), Bryson City (for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Nantahala River), Brevard (home to 250+ waterfalls), Sylva (a hip college town), Blowing Rock (for stunning scenery), and Cherokee (for indigenous culture). Many of these towns are located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Cherokee to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The high elevation makes this a great region to visit in the summer, with an extensive assortment of parks, mountain lakes, swimming holes, and rivers for swimming, tubing, or just cooling off after a long day on the trails.
Los Angeles, California
Contributed by Debbie Fettback of WorldAdventurists.com
Summer in Los Angeles is the perfect time to enjoy all the great outdoor activities the city has to offer. From the gorgeous beaches to the myriad of hiking trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy and beat that summer heat. There’s more to Los Angeles than just glitz and glamour.
With over 75 miles of coastline and 100 beaches, Los Angeles beaches are some of the best in the world. Spend your day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, surfing, or building sandcastle. There’s no better way to cool off and escape the summer heat. Santa Monica (don’t forget to walk the iconic pier), El Matador, and Zuma are beaches you do not want to miss.
With over 500 miles of trails, Los Angeles has plenty of great hiking spots to explore. On your next visit, be sure to check out Mt. Hollywood Trail in Griffith Park, the closest you can get to the Hollywood sign. If you want a challenge, Mount Baldy is the highest point in LA with incredible sub-alpine views. If hiking doesn’t set your soul on fire, but you still want a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood sign, visit Lake Hollywood Park.
Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Contributed by Jess of Uprooted Traveler
Olympic National Park is arguably one of the most diversely stunning U.S. National Parks, cramming dramatic beaches, towering mountains, and lush rainforests, all within a short drive of one another. While this area is famously one of the rainiest in the country, the summer is the perfect time to visit, with clear skies, warm temperatures, and snow- and ice-free roads and hiking trails.
One of the best ways to explore the park is to get out on any of its incredible hiking trails, like the famed Hall of Mosses trail, which winds through the luscious Hoh Rainforest, or Hurricane Hill, where you’ll stroll across the spine of a mountain while the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains surround you. For a more challenging adventure, consider planning a backpacking trip along the Enchanted Valley trail, through the Quinault Rainforest to a stunning valley, with seemingly vertical mountains with countless waterfalls streaming down their sides.
Alternatively, you could spend days exploring Olympic’s jaw-dropping beaches. The park is known for its more rugged beaches, with pebbly shores, sea stacks jutting out of the sea, and the surrounding pine tree forests. For a real showstopper, head to Ruby Beach for sunset—you won’t regret it!
Monterey and Carmel, California
Contributed by Jina of byjinalee
If you’re looking for an idyllic summer retreat, look no further than Monterey and Carmel located on the coast of Central California. The warm and sunny weather is perfect for exploring the stunning views and thriving wildlife, making these charming coastal towns perfect for a summer weekend.
Kick off your weekend in Monterey with a visit to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, where vibrant marine life and interactive exhibits delight visitors of all ages. Stroll along the historic Cannery Row and immerse yourself in the rich literary and cultural heritage of the area that inspired John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name. For outdoor enthusiasts, consider kayaking in the calm waters of Elkhorn Slough near Monterey. It’s one of the best places to spot the cutest residents of the Bay – sea otters!
On Saturday, head to Carmel and explore one of the most charming towns in California. Consider driving the 17-Mile Drive or hiking in Point Lobos State Reserve to appreciate the stunning California coastline. At the end of the day, unwind on Ocean Avenue where you can grab dinner and walk to Carmel Beach.
Whether you decide to spend a week or a weekend, you won’t regret spending time in Monterey and Carmel in the summer. Filled with spectacular scenery, abundant marine life, rich cultural history, and picturesque ocean towns, it’s the perfect escape for visitors of all ages and interests.
The Florida Keys
Contributed by Angela of Fitting in Adventure
The Florida Keys are a tropical paradise located just off the southern coast of Florida. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and laid-back island vibe, it’s no wonder that the Keys are a popular destination for travelers from around the world. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed vacation experience, consider visiting the Keys during the summer months.
Summer isn’t the typical time people think of for a visit to the Keys. But a summer getaway will offer you fewer crowds leaving you to enjoy all that the Keys at a slower pace. Plus, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, you can spend your days lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the clear waters, or exploring the area’s unique natural beauty.
Redondo Beach, California
Contributed by Janelle Axton of Make the Trip Matte
Redondo Beach, located in the South Bay of Los Angeles, is one of the best places to spend the summer. The city is situated just a few miles south of Los Angeles, with easy access to the big tourist attractions, but it offers a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling metropolis. From less crowded beaches to excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Redondo Beach is truly a gem on the west coast.
Spend the day soaking up the sun by playing beach volleyball, surfing, skating down the Strand, or swimming in the ocean. Make sure to check out the Seaside Lagoon, which is perfect for families with children. This saltwater lagoon is an ideal and safe spot for kids to swim and play. The harbor in Redondo Beach is also an excellent spot for fishing as well as for SUP and kayak enthusiasts, with calm waters and stunning views.
Foodies will also love Redondo Beach for its seafood options. From casual seafood joints along the harbor to upscale restaurants, the city has plenty of options for seafood lovers. Additionally, the Riviera Village, located in the southern part of the city, offers a variety of boutique shopping and fine dining experiences.
One of the biggest advantages of Redondo Beach is its abundance of beach parking options (a rarity in southern California!). There is a large parking lot, metered parking, and even some street spots to be found that are free of charge. This makes it easy to enjoy a day at the beach without having to worry about parking fees or finding a spot far away from the water.
